Coast winter 2018

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from the publisher It’s that time of year yet again. The days are getting shorter and decidedly cooler . . . winter is on its way!

Are you a fan of the colder months? When I was younger I was a self-confessed summer-lover, dreading the onset of winter. As I get older I am starting to appreciate the change of seasons that are all the more dramatic when you live by the coast. Panoramic stormy skies, wild winds, epic ocean swells – nature at its rawest and most powerful.

How do you enjoy or survive winter? I love rugging up and taking my two energetic dogs for long beach walks in wild weather. To then come home and snuggle up by a crackling wood fire, or go out for dinner to enjoy warm hospitality and comforting winter fare, definitely makes the season more attractive.

This edition we make our way around the coast to discover how our fellow coasters enjoy winter. We talk to marine biologist Mikala Peters out on the water as she helps fellow wildlife lovers discover migrating whales who make their way to warmer waters up north. Continuing our nature theme, we talk to conservationist Jessica McKelson about her tireless work with orangutans and her current role with the Phillip Island Nature Parks.

Artist Brigitte Dawson makes the most of the wild and woolly weather by creating paintings of extraordinary beauty. We talk to this talented artist at her home in Tooradin about all things inspiring. As the water temperature drops, we talk to local surfer Paul Mannix and wonder how many wetsuits you need to wear over the winter period.

Don’t miss our Winter Weddings feature this edition if you are looking to tie the knot. Whether you’re contemplating saying ‘I do!’ in winter, or planning for the warmer months, it’s the ultimate guide to create your perfect day.

Stay warm and cosy.

Maria x

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Constructing the GP Circuit

RISING FROM THE RUINS Rebuilding a life

SPIRIT OF THE GAME Indigenous players soar

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR Fabulous food and wine

THE GOOD LIFE

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LOST AND FOUND A family in transition

THE FLYING CHIPPIE Our Ninja Warrior

KAY SETCHES A political life

GUIDE TASTE OF SUMMER FOOD BUILDING & RENOVATION SUMMER HOLIDAY GUIDE

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Coast Magazine, PO Box 104, San Remo, Victoria 3925 PHONE: (03) 5956 6781 ADS : 0432 273 107 EMAIL: editorial@coastmagazine.net WEB: www.coastmagazine.net PUBLISHER: Maria Reed EDITORIAL COORDINATOR: Chloe Kent SUB EDITOR: Anne Roussac-Hoyne, Christina Aitken WORDS: Katie Cincotta, Chloe Kent, Sally O’Neill, Maria Reed PHOTOGRAPHY: Warren Reed, 0414 753 739 DESIGN: Amélie Pritchard PRINT MANAGER: Nigel Quirk ADVERTISING: Robyn Kemp, 0432 273 107, ads@coastmagazine.net

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contents

ENDANGERED SPECIES 100 The kneeboarder, an endangered species. Paul Mannix is one of a handful remaining on the coast and he isn’t about to stand.

RETURN TO THE FOREST 16 From the rainforests of the Equator, Jess McKelson has returned home, but her conservational work is not stopping anytime soon.

EAT, DRINK & HARVEST GUIDE 104 Our new guide on where to dine, drink and top up your pantry.

RENAISSANCE WOMAN 78 Whimsical and vulnerable, Brigitte Dawson’s artwork takes method from the Italian greats.

OUR INNATE FASCINATION… 24 Marine Biologist Mikala Peters guides us through all things whalerelated on the Coast and how to spot the majestic creatures.

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people

9 15 Minutes of Fame

Helen Brown

12 2 Coast People

Casey Murtagh-Woodward & Alex Woodward

137 Young & Inspired

Tara Storey

TIME TO CELEBRATE 34 Your right-hand companion for planning the perfect celebration.

places 82 5 Things we love about…

Wonthaggi

114 Lifestyle Review – Wattlebank Modhouse

REGULARS

BARBERSHOPS ARE BACK 66

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Coast Life

14

Latest Products

22

Events Calendar

106

Dine Out – RACV Inverloch Resort

109

What’s Cooking – Relish Mama

111

It’s all about the house

124

Coast Style

134

Coast Directory & Stockists

135

A Good Read – Turn the Page

136

The Right Fit – YMCA

138

Where Am I?

Old spice, Proraso, aftershave… fond memories for the little boy inside every man. Mario Fallace, Damien Noonan and Jack Dent are re-invigorating the red, white and blue stripes.

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fifteen

minutes

of

fame

words as told to chloe kent photo james braund

New Zealander and New York Times best seller, Helen Brown, is draped across the outside chaise scattered with cushions, a smile dances across her lips as her wide brimmed sunhat moves with the wind, Jonah (the cat) watches from the door. The epitome of stories, adventure and grief.

My mother was a journalist. I’d seen her hammering away at her Imperial typewriter since my birth. The only reason I went to journalism school was because I didn’t want to go to university – it took too long, and Mum said I couldn’t have sex before I was married. I despised the whole notion of writing. I thought I’d be a painter, or something more interesting.

I scraped through with straight c’s and started writing newspaper columns about ordinary life. All I’ve ever done is write for people like me, people I can relate to who might be friends I haven’t met. The media scene has transformed over 40 years. When I started out, being a female columnist was unfashionable. Crusty male editors accused me of writing trivia, but it’s become quite a glamorous occupation.

There was a magical time when I interviewed Michael Crawford in his hotel room. He sang to me, ‘softly, gently…’.

He’d been projecting that into a theatre and to have him doing that in front of me, I would have done anything for him at that moment and I think he knew it!

When my book Cleo became a best seller I was astonished.

Based around the death of my older son, Sam, in 1983, it’s about healing and, ultimately, resilience. Animals demonstrate so much resilience we have a lot to learn from them. The presence of Cleo was deeply healing for us, particularly for Sam’s younger brother Rob.

Healing’s different for different people. So much of life is about letting go. Nobody escapes suffering. One of the ways you can bring an end to your own suffering is to help others.

I was in Japan the year before last. They invited me to the tsunami-affected region – it was harrowing. Because of my association with grief, they were looking for guidance. I wasn’t prepared for that scale. In the end it was one heart to another – I cried with the people who wanted to cry.

When I was working on my latest memoir, Bono, I’d read the latest instalment aloud to Philip (husband) on Friday nights while we were driving out to Red Rocks. Phillip Island has tremendous soul. There is something about the land here that is magical and precious. I wrote a lot of the book here, because you can tuck yourself away from the world.

You try and learn from the purest state you can be in. Even when you’re feeling torn apart and life is difficult, there’s always beauty, or something else to be grateful for in the now.

See Helen Brown at the Phillip Island Literary Festival (27-29 July).

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coast life

The seven seas Celebrate and honour the vast blue that makes up over 70% of the planet we call home on June 8 (World Oceans Day). Grab a group of friends, family members or random strangers and connect with mother nature – and whilst you’re at it grab a bag and help clean up the oceans.

Solstice celebrations Awakening the sleepy towns of Pioneer Bay, Grantville, Corinella and Coronet Bay are the luminous lights (until 26 August). Five months of changing installations lit between dusk and midnight. Experience a tribute to the Winter Solstice at Tenby Point 22 – 24 June.

Music feeds the soul Australian guitarist, Dom Turner (Backsliders) and American slide guitarist/ vocalist, Nikki Brown hit Meeniyan on July 28 with Gloria Brown and Tomika Webb for an evening of infectious gospel-soul, funk-blues music. Tickets available at lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au/category/upcoming-events.

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Changing lives In an effort to help end deforestation, poverty and hunger, Norte has teamed up with Trees for the Future. Every product sold = five trees planted. Approximately 2,400 have been planted since the union four months ago and with winter around the corner, it’s the perfect time to support local businesses.

Everyone has a story Even if you don’t like reading or writing per se, there is something for everyone at the Phillip Island Literary Festival (27-29 July). Join award-winning comedians, actors, activists, writers, musicians, scientists, conservationists, artists, commissioners and engineers across three days as they share their stories of survival and overcoming all odds.

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2

two coast people

Casey Murtagh-Woodward and Alex Woodward are a happily married (albeit unusual) couple. Shortly after their wedding day, Casey spent a year in Borneo protecting Sun Bears while Alex continued to keep busy working - abseiling offshore rigs. We talk to this dynamic duo about their shared love of life and adventures.

CASEY: I grew up in a very modest house in Morwell. My parents divorced when I was ten and my two sisters and I grew up with Mum. We were lucky enough to have Dad, aunties and both sets of grandparents living within walking distance of our house, so Mum always had support with bringing us up.

I left the Latrobe Valley soon after I turned 21 and spent several years living in London and Canada, travelling to Europe, Africa and the States. I did a road trip from Vancouver to Alaska. I love wild places and Alaska really encapsulates that idea of wild for me.

I met Alex at a Melbourne Cup barbecue at a flat-mate’s house.

Our first meeting wasn’t entirely successful, but thankfully I gave him another chance. The more I got to know about Alex, the more I fell in love with him. I can be neurotic and Alex has a very calming influence on me. He has the ability to take the emotion out of situations, so you can see them for what they really are, and make a plan to tackle whatever the issue is.

Alex is definitely a dreamer, and incredibly optimistic, which I really admire. He is pretty quirky and fun to be around and has an adventurous spirit, which I think is our true common denominator.

Before we got married I applied to work as a volunteer with a US-based charity, Orangutan Foundation International.

I was offered a year’s position as a Sun Bear rehabilitation

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officer in Borneo. Being apart for that year was difficult but also incredibly liberating. Although Alex worked some of the time, he did solo trips to places like Norway and Switzerland, where he went skydiving with friends. We’d meet up when I had to do visa runs in places like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and do little mini-adventures. Alex also joined me at the clinic where I volunteered and I put him to work constructing a new enclosure for a rescued New Guinean Cassowary and making improvements for the Long Tailed Macaques.

After Borneo I started fundraising for conservation causes and have raised $65,000 to date. I studied Conservation and Land Management and worked as a bush regenerator while volunteering with a Wildlife Rescue organisation on the Sunshine Coast. I went on to study Veterinary Nursing and managed the Wide Bay Burnett Environment Council, volunteering with the RSPCA and Eumundi Wildlife Centre.

After the birth of our daughter we decided to move to Phillip Island to be closer to family. I continue to study vet nursing and work part time at Newhaven Veterinary Clinic.

I’m currently working on a fundraiser for Dr Karmele Sanchez, CEO of International Animal Rescue (IAR) Indonesia. She’s visiting Australia (and Phillip Island) in October and will be a special guest speaker at our event. We hope to raise money to support her ongoing, incredible work.

words as told to maria reed photo warren reed

ALEX: I grew up in Wodonga, country Victoria. I lived with my Mum until I was nine, and then moved in with my Dad. My childhood was fun – lots of skateboarding, snowboarding, playing soccer and music (drums and vocals) and spending a lot of time with friends.

I lived in Europe for two years. When I came back to Australia I met Casey at a party and was immediately attracted to her.

Within three months we’d decided to move to Queensland together. Casey was a lot less crazy than other girls I’d been with in the past. I was at an extremely happy and confident time of my life and Casey only added to that happiness. There were no dramas, and lots of laughter.

Casey has a very passionate and devoted personality. She’s full of love and shares that love with everyone around her, no matter what gender, race or even species! She’s one of the most caring people I’ve ever met – sometimes to her own detriment. She’ll always put her passion and love before herself. But that’s what makes her such an inspiration and a beautiful person. Her heart is pure and her passion is great.

Our wedding day was intimate and splendid. Only local friends were invited, and it was a beautiful ceremony at our local headlands. Casey looked gorgeous, as always. We shared a delicious lunch, and then had a small but festive after-party.

We revealed the marriage the following day to family and interstate friends.

I’m a FIFO rigger and scaffolder on offshore oil and gas rigs. I come from a background of rope access (abseiling). I enjoy my job. The ocean is calming and the work can go from boring to full-on overnight. I work three weeks on, three weeks off, and this has allowed me to visit amazing places in the world and indulge in my hobbies.

The year Casey worked in Borneo, I have to admit I missed her immensely. I continued to work, and in my time off I went surfing, skydiving and base-jumping around the world. Due to the nature of Casey’s work and quarantine, I only got to see her on her visa runs, but I got a real appreciation of the work she was doing and why she was so passionate about it.

One of the most beautiful and amazing experiences I’ve shared with Casey is bringing our daughter Coco into this world. I know it’s hard for Casey when I’m away – it’s a heavy workload. When I am home, there are two of us to share the load. Although there’s a lot less adventure these days, our little 15-month-old is an incredible joy. She makes our family whole. She was a very angry baby and gave her mother a lot a grief. But she’s now a very happy little girl and her smiles and laughter bring me joy every day.

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Heart-warming harmony BeezNest candles – prices vary Freedom Organics

Gotta get mee one of thes Latest news and products from your Coast retailers Cute as a handmade button Chook Leaf shoes - $82 Kilcunda General Store

Sea-glass sensations…

Flower seaglass pendant - $340 Georgie Cunningham

The perfect travel companion Free audiobooks and ebooks for members West Gippsland Libraries Products Rails, boxes, ledges coast magazine

Wonthaggi skate park programme – see Facebook for details

– edition 51 Winter 2018

YMCA

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WHALES

Our innate fascination

RETURN TO THE FOREST live the dream

Jess McKelson’s orangutan journey

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The last bastion of masculinity TIME TO CELEBRAT E Ultimate guide to parties, weddings and events

WONDERF UL WONTHAG GI

ISSN 1833–3648

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Lucky charm Japan kokeshi vintage dolls – $65 & $90 Cowes Bazaar

Winter feast Salad niçoise – seasonal pricing Harry’s On The Esplanade

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Kitchen 101 Domestic and commercial spaces – call for quote South Coast Kitchens

Marvellous marsupials Patchy Kangaroo Ceramic $50 ArtSpace Gallery

Knife easels and mud pits…

Duo tank experiences – $220 for two hours South Gippsland Tank Adventures

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words katie cincotta photos supplied design amélie pritchard

Return to

the Forest

If you’ve had the privilege of seeing an orangutan up close you’ll understand why wildlife warrior Jessica McKelson has made it her mission to return them to the forest.

These gentle apes with their striking red hair share 97 per cent of the human DNA, and it shows. Their giant soulful eyes, so much like our own, watch and observe with thought, emotion and reasoning. They’ve been known to make their own tools to forage for food. Like toddlers latching onto mothers, they too nurse for several years while they learn the ways of the forest from their family. It makes what’s happening to these sentient creatures all the more devastating.

Chainsaws are slashing through their habitat – the rainforests of Indonesia – to make way for lucrative palm oil plantations.

As the most consumed vegetable oil in the world, widely used in snacks and cosmetics, palm oil has tempted Indonesians into logging as they try to eke out a living in rugged tropical terrain. With the forests razed to the ground, wildlife have nowhere to go – displaced orangutans often starve to death, are killed in the fires or are captured by plantation workers who regard them as a pest. Babies are torn from their mothers and sold on the black market as pets.

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This is the harsh reality Jessica was exposed to when she arrived in Indonesia more than twelve years ago, as she contemplated whether she wanted to return to her comfortable life and her role as the primate supervisor at Melbourne Zoo. “I got married at 20 and was told to ‘go find a hobby’. So I did and it led to the end of our marriage.”

It’s a wry assessment of the dramatic about-turn in the life of a young woman who felt compelled to rectify the endemic cruelty being inflicted on humanity’s closest living relative.

“When I got to Indonesia I knew this was where I needed to be, what I wanted to commit to.”

Some of the horrors she witnessed made her decision to stay and instigate change inescapable. “One day we had about seven orphaned orangutans come into our Quarantine station, and one of the babies had had his nose macheted off when they murdered his mother. I nearly had a meltdown, but you have to be strong for your team and the animals, even when you feel like giving up.” >

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“…you have to be strong for your team and the animals, even when you feel like giving up.”

Jessica has had decades to develop that fortitude. She knew from a very young age that she wanted to work with animals, happy even to do the decidedly unglamorous job of cleaning out cages at the Ballarat Wildlife Park. “I was pretty much a shit-shoveler, but I really loved it.”

At 36, she’s expanded that conservation résumé to epic proportions, having dedicated the last decade to helping local communities in North Sumatra (regarded as the wild west of Indonesia) transition from illegal logging and poaching to eco-tourism. “I spent the first three to four years sitting in coffee shops, learning the language, listening to what their issues were, understanding their cultural values and their economic situation.”

What the feisty foreigner proposed was a sustainable eco-tourism model – Raw Wildlife Encounters– that would allow locals to profit from the natural wonder and wildlife of the region. “Some of the locals had gone to jail for illegal logging. They wanted to change but didn’t know how. It started slowly, training the women how to cook for tourists, setting up accommodation, encouraging them to tell their stories about their land.”

She admits some of that work has been harrowing. Her life was once threatened by power players angry at the disruption to their trafficking, especially on the forefront of village communities. “Some of these animals are staples for the illegal pet trade, and it was pretty unsafe to take on the mafia that runs that operation. If you don’t stick up for yourself and push back at them, they’ll walk all over you. I was lucky to be protected by the community groups and a strong team that became my family.”

Her most difficult challenge arose in Aceh, a province ruled by the militant moral code of Sharia law. “It took me eight months to integrate into the team in the middle of the rainforest. Every day I would come into the forest with the orangutans and my camera. I was getting the orphans ready to return to the forest – teaching them how to build a nest and what foods to eat, and training local staff how to do this. They wouldn’t talk or respond to me, but I just persisted. They finally let me into their lives, and eventually introduced me to their wives and children. I guess they were testing me.” >

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Jessica was able to release more than 21 orangutans back into the forest – one of which was a male that had been chained to the back of a chicken coop. “For 21 animals to have found freedom again makes all the rubbish that you deal with worthwhile.”

One moment in the field serves as a powerful reminder of why she does this – an exchange that Jessica likens to that emotional embrace between primatologist Dr Jane Goodall and Wounda, the chimpanzee she nursed back to health, just seconds before she returned to the wild. “I was in the rainforest where we had released a five-year-old female, Loning, a couple of years earlier, and I saw three orangutans come through. I wasn’t sure if I recognised them. I called out several names, and then I said ‘Loning?’ She came down to me.

I was by myself and I wasn’t scared. She grabbed my hand and put it on her hair, embraced me, and then went off up into the trees with her friends. It was so precious. An unforgettable moment that puts why you do this into perspective.”

While it’s not mothering, what Jess has chosen to do is a form of guardianship for these voiceless primates. “I knew I didn’t want to have children. Why would I want to have kids when all these animals need help and I could be a mother to them?” But the enormity of fighting against an estimated $80 billion palm oil industry did wear her down. For the sake of her mental health, she’s recently returned to Australia. “The last three months in West Borneo Ketapang, I was living in a swamp – literally. I started to struggle with depression and you can’t get any support. I felt like I needed a complete break and lifestyle change.”

“She grabbed my hand and put it on her hair, embraced me...”

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Her new post is on the Island as the Conservation Manager at Phillip Island Nature Parks. Different climate. Different animals.

Same cause. “I’m used to working in humid conditions so I’m still adjusting to the cold here. The Island is stunning. I know little about penguins and shearwaters, but it’s nice to be leading a new conservation strategy.”

She’s relishing having her own space and hot water for the first time in five years. “I think Australians really take for granted how beautiful it is here, and how great our resources are. I’m seeing all these amazing birds across the island, and that’s inspiring when you’ve come from a country where you’re lucky to see a single bird, because they’re gone due to poaching.”

The conservation groundwork she laid in Indonesia continues, with more wildlife advocates coming through the ranks via the Jungle Sistas mentoring program Jessica instigated. “To avoid getting burnt out, you need to give the opportunity to other people to take that torch and keep (the fire) burning.”

Jessica feels the sacrifices she’s made – traditional family life, a house, stability – have not been in vain. Meeting her idol Dr Jane Goodall, and hearing her commend her work, made her feel like she’s in some way a part of the conservation sisterhood. “She was very encouraging. You sacrifice everything in your life for a cause and things like that make it worthwhile. I had a very comfortable life prior. I gave all that up. I’ve had an extraordinary life. There’s nothing better than watching that animal that you have found chained up, abused, released – be free.”

Photographed at Silverwater Resort. Paintings by Michael Whitehead

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winter 2018

events guide JUNE

Cake Decorating with Trish Lott 25 June, 11.30am-12.30pm Warragul Library, 75 Victoria St Contact: 5622 2848 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Winter Sunshine Festival & Rock ‘n’ Roll Night 30 June, 9am-3pm and 6pm till late Cowes Cultural Centre & Westernport Hotel Contact: Darlene Stillwell 0428603043

JULY Luminous Lights 2-30 June, Dusk to Midnight Corinella, Coronet Bay, Grantville & Pioneer Bay www.theedgeofus.com.au Janelle McCulloch: Beyond The Rock 4 June, 2-3.30pm Warragul Library, 75 Victoria St Contact: 5622 2848 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Winter Wine Fest 9 June, 11am-4pm Red Hill Recreation Reserve, 180 Arthurs Seat Rd Contact: 5989 2377 www.mpva.com.au Antiques Evaluation Day 10 June, 10am National Vietnam Veterans Museum, 25 Veterans Dr Contact: 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org Loch Food & Wine Festival 10 June, 10am-3pm Loch Railway Station Reserve Contact: Jane Taylor 0413454997 www.lochvillage.com Newhaven College Tour 14 June, 9.30am 1770 Phillip Island Rd Contact Belinda Manning 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Sunday Afternoon with the Artist: Ray Dahlstrom 17 June, 13.0-3.30/4pm Goods Shed, Wonthaggi Contact: Barb Cumming 0404 067 045 Eric George 20 June, 2.30pm Leongatha Library, 2 Smith St Contact: 5662 4829 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Jack Dann 21 June, 4.30-5.30pm Foster Library, Main St Contact: 5682 1735 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Tenby Point Winter Solstice Festival of Lights 22-24 June, from 5.30pm www.theedgeofus.com.au

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Learn to Science 3 July, 11am-12pm and 2-3pm Inverloch Library, 16 A’Beckett St Contact: 5674 1169 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Small Business Mentoring Sessions Grantville 5 July, 10.30am Contact: Emilie Barkley 5951 3384 www.sbms.org.au/events Island Whale Festival 6-8 July Cowes Town Square Contact: Kim Storey 5952 2729 islandwhales.com.au Phillip Island Makers Market 8 July, 9am-2pm Cowes Leisure Centre (YMCA) www.mermaidsorority.com.au Free Locals Open Day 8 July, 10am-4pm 25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven, 3925 Contact: 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org Luminous Lights 7-29 July, Dusk to Midnight Corinella, Coronet Bay, Grantville & Pioneer Bay www.theedgeofus.com.au

AUGUST Luminous Lights 4-26 August, Dusk-Midnight Corinella, Coronet Bay, Grantville & Pioneer Bay www.theedgeofus.com.au International Food and Language Afternoon Presented by Mirboo North Library 9 August, 2-3pm Café Escargot, 10 Old Nichols Rd, Mirboo North Contact: 5668 1528 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au South Gippy Wedding Showcase 12 August, 10am-3pm RACV Inverloch Resort, 70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch www.southgippslandweddings. com.au/2018-south-gippy-weddingshowcase/ 39 Days on the Camino with Ricardo Alves-Ferreira 16 August, 2-3pm Phillip Island Library, 89 Thompson Ave Contact: 5952 2842 www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au Sunday Afternoon with the Artist: Susan Hall 19 August, 1.30-3.30/4pm Goods Shed, Wonthaggi Contact: Barb Cumming 0404 067 045 Newhaven College Tour 30 August, 9.30am 1770 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island Contact: Belinda Manning 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

SEPTEMBER

Sunday Afternoon with the Artist: Dennis Laversha 15 July, 1.30-3.30/4pm Goods Shed, Wonthaggi Contact: Barb Cumming 0404 067 045

The Leongatha Daffodil & Dairy Street Festival 1 September, 9am-3pm Bair/Lyon Streets & Michael Place.

Contact: Jodie Clarkson 0409863299 www.facebook.com/ daffodilfestival3953/

Launch of Caribou Classroom 22 July, 2pm 25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven, 3925 Contact: 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

Now In Gippsland Photography Exhibition 2 September Meeniyan Art Gallery www.meeniyanartgallery.com.au

Newhaven College Tour 26 July, 9.30am 1770 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island Contact: Belinda Manning 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Phillip Island Literary Festival 28-29 July Contact: Stacey Shine 0468328477 www.theislandstorygatherers.com

LIVING ART

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LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

GRACE LANDSCAPES

Design Solutions, Beautiful Landscapes Heath Grace 0404 596 504 Nela Grace 0434 423 339 8 Vista Place CAPE WOOLAMAI | Open 6 days 10am – 5pm, 9am – 3pm weekends (closed Mondays) | www.heathgracelandscapes.com

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words chloe kent photos supplied by refuge cove cruises & wildlife coast cruises illustrations amélie pritchard

Our innate fascination with...

whales

Prior to 2010 if you had said you could watch whales between Sorrento and the Prom people would laugh: “yeah, right” was the general response. The occasional whale was spotted out the back of the surf breaks, but Hervey Bay was the place for serious whale watching. That has all changed. Marine Biologist Mikala Peters is helping lead the charge on whale sightings and raising awareness of these sacred animals.

Until the ‘70s whales were hunted to near extinction levels, but thanks to legislation and a move against whaling, numbers have rejuvenated and continue to grow approximately 10% each year – last year alone that meant an additional 3,000 whales in the Eastern Australian population.

Humpback whales make up 95% of all whales spotted along

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our coastline with southern right whales, killer whales and minke whales making up the remaining 5%. A rise in whale numbers and social media are helping increase awareness.

Killer whales are spotted off the coast, particularly around Seal Rocks. The most famous stories of Australian killer whales stem from the Eden tales – an unlikely friendship between humans

and killers. The most famous comes from Old Tom, albeit a gloomier part of history.

As Mikala notes, “each whale has its own personality and therefore mood, but it’s amazing how a large majority trust us.

We have a permit to get up to 100 metres on the boat. If they

decide to come any closer, we have to shut off the motors – they mug us. Mugging is the most incredible experience, you cannot do anything, you just float. They are just as curious of us as we are of them.” >

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Reaching 50 to 80 years old – with their episodic memory largely unknown – the creatures pass their songs from one generation to another. But did you know each ‘community’ has their own variation? Male whales that pass the western coast have an entirely different song to that of the east coast. Their singing can also last up to an hour. “I was in Tonga swimming with them and the sound was so clear and loud, you could hear it from above the surface. We sometimes hear it on the boat. They are so graceful and are completely aware of where you are at each moment,” Mikala adds.

Whale watching brings people out of hibernation during blustery winter days. One of Mikala’s more memorable moments comes from an early morning experience on her way into work. “It was 9am when I got a message to say a pod of eight humpbacks were heading towards Cowes. I raced to Cowes and there they were, ten meters from the jetty. It’s almost unheard of seeing so many in a pod here – it was inconceivable.”

From May to October the whales migrate from Antarctica, where they have been feeding, to give birth in warmer waters. Humpbacks head to NSW/QLD, whilst their slower counterparts, the southern right, prefer the protected bays around Victoria and South Australia. They are often seen in Westernport, Venus Bay and down towards Walkerville in Waratah Bay – areas sheltered from westerlies. The move to warmer waters protects the newborn calves who lack sufficient blubber to shelter from the cold. “It was July 6th, and we were out at Seal Rocks – looking at the seals – suddenly we saw this humpback with a newly born calf. It’s very rare to see humpback calves as the water is usually too cold here.

Although it’s probably not unusual for an early labour,” Mikala recalls.

Social creatures, the warmer waters also offer a chance to mingle and mate. To ensure their offspring are healthy, some will choose to only mate with partners outside their pods in >

“They are so graceful and are completely aware of where you are at each moment.”

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WINTER IS A FASCINATING TIME OF YEAR AROUND PHILLIP ISLAND. Winter is the time for whale migration along the local coastline. On your choice of whale cruises, you will experience the anticipation of searching the horizon for that whale blow, while being entertained by cheeky seals, playful dolphins, and watched over by the majestic albatross.

Aboard our Cape Woolamai Cruise, it’s dolphin season from June to August on the picturesque south-eastern tip of the Island. Additionally, Seal Rocks is always a thrill with daily seal watching cruises passing the boisterous creatures in their thousands; there’s even the chance of sighting the majestic whales.

Down at Wilsons Prom our whale search continues with cruises running August to November, as the newborns accompany their parents back to the Antarctic waters.

Open Daily Rotunda jetty carpark, 11-13 The Esplanade, Cowes 1300 763 739 | 03 5952 3501 info@wildlifecoastcruises.com.au | www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

See the sites Wilsons Promontory is famous for Waterloo Bay, Refuge Cove, Skull Rock, Kanowna Seal Colony, Sealers Cove & the Prom Lighthouse.

- Regular sightings of Seals, Dolphins & Whales.

- Full day cruises departing daily from Fisherman Jetty, Port Welshpool.

- Morning tea, lunch & afternoon tea included.

0418 789 916

refugecovecruises.com.au

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On their return around August, the whales are usually spotted on the eastern side of the Prom with their calves. Cutting a more direct route to Antarctica, they either travel the east coast of Tasmania or straight across the tip of the Prom to western Tasmania. It’s not known why they do this but it may be for feeding purposes.

order to avoid inbreeding. With a population of only 2-3,000, the more critical southern rights are slower reproducers, calving every three to five years.

The best time to spot whales is late May to mid-August, peaking around July. Luckily on Phillip Island there are several high ground lookouts making it easier to see their blow and identify the species. Whales travel close to the shore for navigation purposes – according to Mikala, “they know the contours on the ocean floor better and it’s a way to try to protect their young.” There’s even tales of them appearing beside surfers at Cape Woolamai.

Although numbers continue to grow, there are still several threats faced by these grand creatures, from entanglement in cray and shark nets to ship strikes. Rubbish is by far the greatest, since smaller plastics are not only floating in the oceans but are now in the plankton they consume.

Humpbacks are very acrobatic, and the species people best relate to – according to Mikala, seeing a whale breach is overwhelming. “They are so agile and graceful. Usually it’s the males trying to impress the females, but it’s also a form of communication. A 40-tonne whale breaching is going to be heard far away; conversely, if the whale is closer then they may just tail slap or lunge. Most people cry the first time they see a breach.”

The underside of each whale’s tail is unique. For humpbacks, the top is black, and the underside mostly white. Each with different markings, blending of colours and patterns along the edges, as well as scarring from fights; particularly on males with the coronulidae barnacle to blame. Barnacles attach to the whale and although commensalism in nature, they can function like a set of brass knuckles, causing much of the damage during fights.

If the above is not enough to convince you to head along to the lookouts or jump aboard one of the local cruises, then the following story may just make your day. Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Pamela Rothfield was opening the Whale Discovery Trail at Cowes Jetty and only minutes in was interrupted as a whale broke the surface behind her – the luck.

For the latest whale sightings, sign up to the local hotline or follow Phillip Island Whale Watchers or Two Bays Whale Project on Facebook.

fun whale facts Humpback whales have lungs the size of a small car and when they take a breath they exchange 90% of their lung capacity.

A Humpback:12-16 meters long and weight up to 40 tonnes. Look for black upper body and white underneath. A small dorsal fin is located nearly two-thirds down their back.

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Calves are born weighing over a tonne and drink around 240 litres of milk each day.

Southern right and humpbacks use baleen plates to filter tiny krill and plankton for food.

Killer whales have teeth and actively hunt larger fare such as sharks, seals and squid.

The Blowhole: Whales are able to breathe through nostrils on the top of their heads called a blowhole. Baleen whales have two blowholes and toothed whales have one.

Pectoral Fins: These side fins are important for swimming, steering and communication.

A Killer Whale: Weighing over three tonne, they can reach 7-8 meters in length.

Distinctive black and white colouring.

A Southern Right: Similar in length, but heavier (up to 80 tonnes) than the humpback whales, these creatures are black in colour and move slower. Unlike their whale siblings, they lack a dorsal fin and have short pectoral fins. They have prominent raised callosities on their head and jaws.

The Tail: A whale’s tail is known as a fluke. It is one of the most powerful muscles in the animal kingdom, driving the whale through the water using up and down movements.

Building connections with water Few people have the opportunity to align their passion with work, but that is exactly what Meg Humphrys from Westernport Water has done.

As Westernport Water’s Wastewater & Sustainability Officer, Meg looks after water that has passed through the urban environment. The role is diverse and all-encompassing, from managing the by-products of the treatment process (recycled water and bio-solids), to assessing wastewater quality, and looking after the environmental impacts of the sites.

Encouraging their employees to express themselves and become active members of the community, Westernport Water is helping spread the word. In addition, they are incorporating Meg’s work into their educational programmes, which complement tours of Candowie Reservoir that focus on telling the “Catchment to Tap” story.

Behind closed doors, she has spent the last 18 months writing and illustrating her first children’s book ‘When Water Lost Her Way’.

With Meg’s website full of free educational resources, it’s worth a look. Meg’s book is locally available at Turn the Page or read it online for free - https://www.circlespublishing.com/whenwater-lost-her-way

An environmental science geologist alumna, Meg considered writing for a number of years. In particular, exploring the one earth interconnection (Gaia theory) and mother nature’s ability to self-regulate. On maternity leave she found a way to develop her ideas. “I was reading to my son one day, and it just clicked; ‘this was the right platform’. But I would need to write a simple story that has a deeper meaning.”

Working at Westernport Water provided the perfect backdrop for her writing. “For me, it’s about getting more children and people to form a connection to the water sources in their lives– people sometimes need help drawing links to nature in order to care for it.”

It won’t be too long before further books hit the shelves from Meg, with rock cycles and micro-plastics being just some ideas up her sleeve (all printed in Australia from local recycled paper and eco-friendly resources).

Westernport Water also offers a range of educational programs, tours and resources for all age groups. These include tours of water treatment facilities, school incursions/ excursions and programs that increase the awareness of water and wastewater products and services.

For bookings and information contact Westernport Water’s Education Team at communications@westernportwater.com.au or visit www.westernportwater.com.au

WESTERNPORT WATER

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Local Knowledge pays off

You don’t have to look too hard to find some great reasons to live on Phillip Island, or anywhere in the Bass Coast region at all really.

You can explore hinterland villages and laze on wide, sandy beaches; follow the wine trail and feast on gourmet local produce; explore walking trails overlooking stunning coastal scenery or meander through tranquil woodlands; get back to nature and see wildlife in its natural habitat or visit one of the fun, family attractions.

Whatever your preference, Phillip Island Nature Parks has made it even more rewarding to live in the Bass Coast Shire with the latest release of its Local Pass which provides unlimited entry for one whole year to the Penguin Parade, Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm. Just imagine how many cute penguins, sleepy koalas and working dog demonstrations you could see in that time.

The Penguin Parade welcomes visitors from all over the world to witness the natural spectacle of the world’s smallest penguins arriving home at sunset each evening. Experience their nightly march from the beachfront viewing stands as the penguins emerge from the waves and start their dangerous dash across the sand. They are at their most vulnerable to aerial predators words & photos supplied

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like eagles and hawks during this crossing, so they try and make sure they’ve got safety in numbers.

Once they’ve crossed the sand, you can see them up close from the boardwalks as they trek along the same penguin pathway they use every time to get to their burrows. The Local Pass includes unlimited entry to the General viewing stands, and you always have the option to upgrade to one of the premium options like Underground Viewing or a Ranger guided tour if you want to get a slightly different perspective.

If you’ve got kids, then you can immerse yourself in the handson family fun and interactive experiences in the Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies, which showcases the wonders of the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. You can ‘Feel the freeze’ in the Antarctic Chill Zone; compare your thermal image to an Emperor penguin; visit the Research Station and Sound Lab; or check out the sustainable menu in the virtual café.

The giant screens and stunning soundscape create an unforgettable walk-through experience, surrounded by creatures of the deep like whales, seals, sharks and more. The interactive wildlife experience is bound to be a highlight as you

see yourself on a giant screen, standing on an ice floe, patting a penguin, stroking a seal or reaching out to touch an orca majestically rising in from of you, all thanks to cutting edge augmented reality technology.

The tranquil woodlands of the Koala Conservation Centre offer the opportunity to slow the pace a little as you come face-toface with wild koalas in their natural habitat from the treetop boardwalks or stroll along the bushland walking trails. If you keep your eyes and ears open you may come across some of the many visiting native animals including wallabies, echidna, and over 35 different species of birds.

Journey back in time to explore our legacy and enjoy the serenity of Churchill Island Heritage Farm, set against the beautiful backdrop of the waters of Westernport. Hands-on farming activities run daily, including sheep shearing, cow milking, whip cracking and working dog demonstrations. The farm also features a restored homestead, historic cottages and delightful heritage gardens and orchards.

your local knowledge and break out your Local Pass to come and experience what Phillip Island Nature Parks has to offer.

Local Passes are available to purchase at any of the four attractions with proof of residency within the Bass Coast Shire, such as a rates notice or driver’s licence. Photo ID needs to be presented with the pass to gain entry at all locations.

About Phillip Island Nature Parks Phillip Island Nature Parks is a self-funded, not for profit organisation that also manages over 1,805 hectares of Crown land on Phillip Island including a variety of coastal reserves, Ramsar listed wetlands, and woodlands. The Nature Parks’ ecotourism attractions provide funding for ongoing environmental, conservation, research and education programs, so every visitor contributes to this important work.

For the one low price of just $58.80 for an adult and $29.30 for a child of 4 – 15 years (children 3 and under are free of charge), you can visit these four great attractions as often as you’d like within a 12 month period. So the next time you’re wondering what to do with the kids during school holidays, or you’ve got visitors that you want to show around your own backyard, use

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Corporal John D ( Snow ) Coughlan Corporal John D ( Snow ) Coughlan responded to the emergency call of US helicopter gunship which has crashed into dense jungle deep in known enemy territory. Cpl Coughlan immediately volunteered to be winched down to search for and assist survivors with the knowledge that the crashed aircraft would attract the attention of the enemy within a short time. He located and prepared three seriously wounded survivors for winch evacuation. When their evacuation was complete he remained on the ground to search for the remaining survivors.

ENDLESSLY FASCINATING AND ABSORBING. Holographic Light & Sound Show.

Audio visual devices.

Aircraft, helicopters, Centurion Tank, vehicles, images, dioramas.

--NUI DAT CAFE – great coffee and refreshments.

25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven, Phillip Island Open Daily 10am – 5pm ph 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

Success Starts Early Enrolling for 2020

Contact Belinda Manning, 5956 7505 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Phillip Island, 3923

www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

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national vietnam veterans museum ‘Our museum talks to you’

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clothing : accessories : homewares : fabric : furniture

11 A’Beckett St, Inverloch | 15 Smith St, Warragul www.mookah.com.au

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time to Celebrate

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate

Oprah Winfrey From birthdays to weddings, anniversaries and family gatherings to gettogethers, there is always something in life to celebrate. Baby gender reveals are even big business these days with confetti, streamers and cakes a must. With summer finally departing and fires in full swing, sit back, relax and start planning your next celebration‌ photo: passion8 photography

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Celebrate In Style Specialising in clear span marquees and complete event hire, we can design a package that is perfectly suited to your style and budget.

We aim to take the hassle out of your special occasion by providing the highest standard of equipment, unique products and styling and awless service and delivery.

5952 1791 | info@overthetopevents.com.au | www.overthetopevents.com.au 15 The Concourse, Cowes.

Celebrate Every Moment.

With an incredible ocean-front location, The Cape Kitchen is the perfect setting for your wedding or special occasion. The unrivalled view of the Phillip Island coast is matched by our first-class service and superb menu, with a focus on fresh, local produce.

The modern, light-filled venue caters for events of every size, from sit-down dinners for 150 guests through to cocktail functions for 200.

The Cape Kitchen – where experiences become life-long memories.

Waterfront Restaurant Phillip Island 1215 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria 3925 hello@thecapekitchen.com.au T 03 5956 7200 thecapekitchen.com.au @thecapekitchen thecapekitchen facebook/thecapekitchen

time to Celebrate

Brides’

CHECKLIST

Sixteen to Nine Months Before

Three Months

Start a wedding bible – fill it with inspiration from your gown, to venues and transport

Finalize the menu and flowers

Work out your budget

Order favours, if desired

Pick your bridal party Start a guest list – best to undertake in an excel programme and then you can keep track of RSVP’s Hire a wedding planner, if desired Reserve your date and venues

Make a list of the people giving toasts and finalise readings Purchase your undergarments Finalize the order of the ceremony and the reception Purchase the rings

Book your priest or celebrant

Send your event schedule to relevant suppliers and make sure everything is in hand

Throw an engagement party

Send out the invitations – set RSVP a month later

Eight Months

Two Months

Hire the photographer and/or the videographer

Meet with the photographer and discuss shots you would like

Book entertainment – attend gigs if you need inspiration or want to see how they perform

Submit a newspaper wedding announcement, if applicable

Meet caterers and book them in, if necessary

Enter RSVPs into your guest list – phone those who have not yet responded

Purchase your dress and schedule fittings Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests – ensure the hotels offer a range of price points Gift Register – have a couple of options and remember some people may not be able to afford expensive gifts Launch a wedding website, if helpful – can be a good reference for guests with travel details, accommodation options, wedding venue address/es, etc.

One Month Mail the rehearsal-dinner invitations Send out as many final payments as possible Confirm times for hair and makeup and all suppliers

Select invitations and send save-the-date cards

E-mail and print directions for drivers Assign seating – draft with sticky notes so you can easily move people around until you’re happy

Seven to Six Months

Purchase bridesmaids gifts

Start planning the honeymoon – ensure passports are valid, visas can be obtained and schedule medical appointments for shots

Write vows, if necessary

Shop for bridesmaid dresses

Get your hair cut and coloured, if applicable

Meet with the priest/celebrant and map out the day

Break in your shoes

If an outdoor wedding, reserve portable toilets, lights, marquees, chairs, tables, etc.

Week of the Wedding

Book florist Arrange transportation – and consider ease of getting in and out of vehicles in your dress

Reconfirm arrival times with suppliers and make final checks Delegate small wedding-day tasks – someone to carry your items, someone in charge of gifts, etc.

Five to Four Months

Send a timeline to the bridal party

Book the rehearsal dinner venue

Pick up your dress

Select and order the cake

Book a spa treatment – manicure, pedicure and a relaxing massage

Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings – take the shoes to your fitting!

Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues

Schedule hair and makeup artists – you don’t need to go with the first place you try Choose your music

Assemble and distribute the welcome baskets Pack for your honeymoon Enjoy your big day! And remember no-one likes a bridezilla, so take deep breaths and relax…

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Create an experience of a LIFETIME

The unique design of the resort provides an abundance of natural ceremony locations with spectacular garden and lush green surroundings.

Set amongst wide rolling fairways on the ancient sand dunes of Victoria’s spectacular Mornington Peninsula, Peppers Moonah Links Resort is the ideal picturesque backdrop for a truly memorable occasion.

accommodation, Award Winning Championship golf courses and proximity to the Peninsula Hot Springs, St Andrews Beach Brewery and Cups Estate Winery to explore all the Mornington Peninsula has to offer.

Peppers Moonah Links offers 8 versatile function spaces included a permanent marquee, with extensive banquet options catering from intimate events to elaborate galas up to 130 guests.

Our dedicated team will assist in coordinating everything from the Ceremony to the Reception, combining our experience and knowledge with your own personal style to create a stunning celebration that’s all about you and your guests.

Imagine the sun setting over a magnificent vista across the golf course as you exchange your vows before moving to an architectural award-winning function room close by to celebrate in style.

For more information on our function and wedding packages as well as pre-wedding bridal party packages, visit www. moonahlinks.com.au or contact our events team on P: (03) 5988 2000 & E: events @moonahlinks.com.au.

Our Executive Lodge function rooms, with their stylish contemporary atmosphere, adjoining outdoor terrace with fireplace, elevated views and floor to ceiling windows bathing the room in natural light, set the mood for an evening you will never forget.

As a resort venue we can accommodate you and your guests for more than just your special day; enjoy contemporary

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time to Celebrate Passion 8 Photography Andrew Harrison, 2017 ABIA Victorian Wedding Photographer of the Year, is a highly qualified and truly professional portrait and wedding photographer. With a keen artistic eye, he allows your story to unfold naturally, letting quiet moments and connections happen; capturing the distinct emotion and feeling. A deep passion for creating exceptional, unique images, Andrew offers a huge range of services.

Call 0418 331 162 www.passion8.com.au

Maria’s Bridal The latest collection reflects the boutique’s need to make beautiful gowns for brides, debutantes and bridesmaids with varied budgets, taking into account that not everyone is a size 10. The gowns range from young and funky to simple and elegant, and others that are made to impress. Full alteration service offered in-store, from jean hems to bridal reconstruction.

Appointments Preferred.

Call 0438 483 502 www.mariasbridalstudio.com.au

Flowers of Phillip Island Experienced, creative florists & horticulturists passionate about Australian made, grown, and crafted. Whether it be a pretty posy, classic bouquet, stunning bridal florals, or corporate - we have the knowledge, skills and experience to make it happen. With a talented Wedding Consultant on hand, we have a history of creating wedding flowers for even the most discerning couple.

Call 5952 2235 www.flowersofphillipisland.com.au

Villa Collina Boutique accommodation in the Woolamai hills. Set among 16 acres, we cater for singles, couples and small groups with a wood fireplace and spa; the perfect location to relax, unwind and enjoy the views across Bass Coast and Phillip Island. This Hampton’s country oasis is a must for anyone looking for the perfect honeymoon escape, or weekend retreat away.

Call 5678 7024 www.villacollina.com.au

Esplanade Hotel For an intimate and welcoming space, look no further than The Captain’s Lounge on the first floor of the Esplanade Hotel. With a private balcony that overlooks Inverloch and includes magnificent ocean glimpses, the room caters for seated and cocktail functions. Professional staff will help plan your special day, so you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Call 5674 1432 www.invyespy.com.au

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For the significant moments in life.

• Celebrant of choice covering the range of civil ceremonies.

• Personalised ceremonies to meet your individual needs.

• State-of-the-art sound equipment for ceremonies.

• Access to recently refurbished modern chapel facilities.

Mona J. (Jenny) Milkins C I V I L

Servicing all areas

|

18 Hunter Street, Wonthaggi, 3995

C E L E B R A N T

|

p: 5672 3123

|

0439 320 099

|

jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

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FEEL GOOD

The lingerie shop that comes to you Because underneath it all, women just want to feel comfortable, beautiful and confident.

Our secret? World-class lingerie, fitted by your very own professional bra fit specialist.

That’s the Intimo Feel Good guarantee. Superior design, technical innovation and unmatched quality marry a unique, exceptional service for an experience that is unmistakably Intimo.

We’re the first thing you put on in the morning and the last thing you take off at night.

Our lingerie makes women feel supported, empowered and ready to take on their day.

INDEPENDENT BRA FIT SPECIALIST

Roberta Brill ‘Proudly fitting Intimo Lingerie for over 20 years’

0418 752 705

roberta.brill@intimo.com.au | www.intimo.com.au

Photos Credit: Morgane Cazaubon www.petitevisuals.com.au

Marriage Celebrant creating heartfelt and soulful ceremonies for Phillip Island, Bass Coast and surrounds.

Lisa-Anne will listen to your dreams, desires and story, then guide you in creating the best day of your life.

She believes the planning process should be as awesome a memory as the day itself.

0417 298 394 | hello@lisaanne.com.au | www.lisaanne.com.au lisaanne_celebrant

lisaanne.celebrant

time to Celebrate Island Bay Ranch Located on Phillip Island in a picturesque location with more than a kilometre of waterfront, lies our unique and secluded venue surrounded by farmland, with breathtaking views of Westernport Bay and Churchill Island. Island Bay can accommodate up to 27 guests. The resort facilities include a heated pool, spa, tennis court, magnificent alfresco/dining area and children’s playground.

Call 5956 7457 www.islandbay.com.au

Manyung Gallery Established 1968, Manyung Gallery has become a cornerstone for exhibiting contemporary art on the Mornington Peninsula. Directors David & Sharyn Wemyss-Smith have been enthusiastic art collectors for over 30 years & have a passion to see art transforming spaces. In Manyung’s 50th year, the gallery is excited to celebrate all that has been & all that is yet to come.

Call 9787 2953 www.manyunggallery.com.au

The Cape Kitchen In an unrivalled ocean-front location with sweeping views from Cape Woolamai to Pyramid Rock, The Cape Kitchen is a place where experiences become life-long memories. From everyday celebrations to special occasions, corporate functions, birthdays, weddings and special events, our dedicated and friendly staff will work with you to plan the perfect event.

Call 5956 7200 www.thecapekitchen.com.au

Intimo Roberta Brill – Your independent bra fit specialist.

Superior design, technical innovation and unmatched comfort and quality, Intimo is the first thing you put on in the morning and the last thing you take off at night. From the everyday necessities to special occasion, convertible, active, smoothing lingerie and loungewear– there is a piece (or two) for every moment.

Call 0418 752 705 www.intimo.com.au

Sweet Life Cakes Locally owned family business specialising in whole cakes and desserts for all occasions; from small gatherings to large events to just because you deserve one.

Their specially designed and printed edible cake toppers are a real hit, with passion going into every creation. Pre-orders and walk-ins welcome. The cake shop is located just two doors away from their cafe.

Call 0409 863 299

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Set in the heart of Gippsland with sweeping views of Bass Strait and Anderson Inlet, the magnificent RACV Inverloch Resort is the perfect location for both your wedding ceremony and reception. The resort provides a selection of breathtaking locations to celebrate your special day, from intimate gatherings to ceremonies and receptions for over 200 guests. This state of the art, purpose built events centre features stunning floor to ceiling glass windows and offers an impressive open, light filled space for the most memorable celebrations.

The resort offers a range of accommodation options for your bridal party from Resort Rooms, Ocean View Rooms, Premium Villas, to Deluxe Cabins.

To find out more or arrange a site inspection call RACV Inverloch Resort on (03) 5674 0000

racv.com.au/venues 70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Road, Inverloch, VIC, 3996 T: 5674 0000 E: inverlochevents@racv.com.au

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time to Celebrate Jenny Milkins For all the significant moments of life. Jenny provides personalised ceremonies to meet your individual needs, covering the full range of civil ceremonies. Jenny can offer advice on all paperwork and legal requirements, as well as suggestions for readings, vows and other aspects of the ceremony. She can also provide state-of-the-art sound equipment and access to modern chapel facilities.

Call 0439 320 099 or 5672 3123

RACV Inverloch A stunning setting with breath-taking ocean views, the perfect location for your special day. The Resort’s experienced team will ensure your wedding day is everything you’ve dreamed of. Offering a mix of stylish accommodation options from spacious Resort Rooms to 3 Bedroom Eco-Villa’s for families and groups with ocean, bush and farm views. Also offering onsite ceremony locations.

Call 5674 0000 www.racv.com.au/inverloch

Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery Whether traditional or contemporary, Lacy engagement rings and wedding bands offer exquisite beauty to last a lifetime. Led by manufacturing jeweller Philip Lacy, the Lacy staff will assist you through each step in choosing the perfect rings.

Call 5664 0055 www.lacyjewellery.com.au

126 GRAHAM ST. WONTHAGGI, VICTORIA APPOINTMENTS PREFERRED: PH. 0438 483 502

W W W. MAR I A S B R I DA L S T U D I O . C O M . AU

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VILLA COLLINA

Set on 16 acres of rolling countryside with spectacular views out to the coast, Villa Collina offers guests a boutique accommodation experience.

03 5678 7024

390 McDowell Road, Woolamai, Victoria, 3995 contact@villacollina.com.au www.villacollina.com.au

“My intention is to empower couples when making one of the most important commitments of their lives to have complete control over the wedding vows, and the celebrant to carry out their wishes with dignity, just as they envisaged, confident that you can entrust me to perform your ceremony ensuring you a perfect day.”

— Di Kleinert

03 5988 9522 di@kleinert.id.au

|

0417 156 882 www.kleinert.id.au

Celebrate Life in Style WEDDING HAIR - MAKEUP - BEAUTY - BARBER Providing brides and grooms with a one stop shop for all things hair, makeup and beauty, with elegant and on trend styling to complement each client individually.

Shey Osbourne 0427 279 135 info@wechoseforever.com.au

71 St Pauls Road, Sorrento 3943 @wechoseforever

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@wechoseforever

ke

Sw

ee

s

Cakes for all celebrations or just because you deserve one

t L if e C a

Krystal Hewson “Our wedding cake was so nice, all our guests loved it, as did Drew and I. The cut out on top was great – highly recommend for any occasion.”

11 Bair Street, Leongatha VIC 3953

0409 863 299

@sweetlifecakes3953

sweetlife@dodo.com.au coast 53

The 2018 Year is set for effortless romantics, a touch of elegance and sophistication paired with what makes you-you.

Congratulations future wedding parties. Get ready for the classics, yet slightly transformed into modern fresh looks for a bridal vision. Braids and twists, tousled texture and perfectly, imperfect messy hair.

EXPERT TIP “Draw inspiration from not only your personal clothing style but also your personality and you will win everytime.”

Shop 9 157-159 Marine Parade, San Remo

5678 5826

hello@shampooavenue.com.au | www.shampooavenue.com.au

JAMP hair studio The key to lusciously styled hair is using professional products that we at JAMP hair studio recommend.

A full-service hair & beauty salon dedicated to consistently providing high customer satisfaction. By rendering excellent service, quality products, and furnishing an enjoyable atmosphere to all your hair and beauty needs.

EXPERT TIP “Good hair starts with great tools.”

17 McCartin Street, Leongatha

5662 0141

jamphairstudio@gmail.com | www.jamphairstudio.com

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Located on Phillip Island in a picturesque location on a 160 acre rural property with more than a kilometre of waterfront lies our unique and secluded venue set on 5 acres of native gardens surrounded by farmland, with breathtaking views of Westernport Bay and Churchill Island. Island Bay caters for weddings of up to 100 people, with accommodation for 27 guests.

Either organise catering yourself or let us recommend caterers, event planners and stylists so you can create your perfect day.

100 Churchill Rd, Newhaven VIC 3925, Australia 5956 7457 hello@islandbay.com.au www.islandbay.com.au

Unique, on-trend looks for your special occasion.

Award-winning salon and De Lorenzo colourists specialising in blondes: lived-in, ombre’ and babylights. We pride ourselves on education, fashion forecasting and using 100% certified Australian made and owned vegan products.

EXPERT TIP “Don’t be afraid to re-invent yourself, change can lift you”

59 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi

5672 2513

abstracthairstudio@bigpond.com | www.abstracthair.studio

Hair Bairs Walk in and leave with a complete look.

For your wedding, special occasion or life event, we are your trusted stylists creating a beautiful you for any occasion.

Local specialists in hair and makeup packages in Leongatha and surrounds.

EXPERT TIP Chelsea Anne Photography

29 Bair Street, Leongatha

5662 4777

hairbairs@hotmail.com | www.hairbairs.com.au

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“Add the glam but be true to you and you will feel beautiful for any occasion”

without the wedding price tag!

time to Celebrate Wonthaggi Betta Home Living With an extensive range of giftware, tableware, glasses, cookware and appliances, this is the perfect place to find a gift for that special occasion. The store stocks a range of leading brands including Maxwell & Williams, Webber and KitchenAid. Talk to their friendly staff about setting up a gift registry.

Call 5672 4733

Gusto Gelateria If you can’t visit Italy, a trip to Gusto is the next best thing. Their range of exquisite house-made gelato features the classics plus some new combinations (we love the raspberry and white chocolate flavour). Try their fabulous range of desserts and pastries including gelato, special occasion cakes and tarts. Everything made from scratch. Gluten-free and dairy-free options available.

Call 5613 9051 www.gustogelateria.com.au

Trulli Pizzeria For your next special occasion, join Trulli at their family table! A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere accompanies amazing food and personal, friendly service. They have a range of packages & areas to suit every style of function, from intimate sit-down dinners to cocktail-style parties with music and dancing – everything you need to plan a memorable, yet hassle-free event!

Call 5664 7397 www.trullipizzeria.com.au

Jacky Webster

MARRIAGE CELEBRANT

Looking for a Registered Marriage Celebrant that eases the stress?

That’s me! Many years of experience have shown me that no two weddings are the same and it’s my job to ensure that yours goes exactly as planned, regardless of age, gender, race or religion. I work throughout Gippsland and charge a fixed fee with no hidden costs.

Arrange a no-obligation meeting in Inverloch, Melbourne or via Skype/ Facetime today.

Open 9am-9pm 7 days a week Other times by appointment 34 Pymble Avenue, Inverloch, 3996 p: 0402 157 764 | 5674 2931 e: webster.jacky@gmail.com w: jackywebster.wixsite.com/jwebstercelebrant facebook.com/basscoastmarriagecelebrant

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Looking for a way to finance your wedding or first home?

Providing a stress-free environment, I’m passionate about numbers and working with you to reach your financial goals, whether it’s your first or fifth time.

We aim to be the front-runner in lending opportunities – locally and beyond – by offering a wider choice of lenders, plus excellence in honesty, privacy and service.

There is nothing more exciting than experiencing the purchase of a first property…

Disclaimer Your full financial situation will need to be reviewed prior to acceptance of any offer or product.

LS Finance Broking Pty Ltd Credit Representative (495763) is Authorised under Australian Credit Licence 389328.

p: 0429 121 082 e: lynda@lsfinancebroking.com.au w: www.lsfinancebroking.com.au

F lowers of Phillip Island

Specialising in weddings, events, special occasions and general floristry.

Servicing Phillip Island and surrounds.

info@flowersofphillipisland.com.au ph: 5952 2235 m: 0412 991 628

time to Celebrate Over The Top Events Specialising in clear-span marquees, complete event hire, and personalised styling services. Over the Top Events will work with you on every aspect of your event, take the hassle out of planning your dream day and design a package to suit your style and budget. Individual items available for hire. Perfect for engagement party, hen’s day, ceremony and reception requirements.

Call 5952 1791 www.overthetopevents.com.au

We Chose Forever Salon owner Shey Osborne is a leading wedding hairstylist and consultant located on the Mornington Peninsula. Providing brides and grooms with a one stop shop for all things hair, makeup and beauty, with elegant and on-trend styling to complement each client individually. Shey can guide you through your final days, with pampering packages, bridal etiquette workshops and checklist meetings.

Call 0427 279 135

Di Kleinert Outside of marrying people and helping families say goodbye to loved ones, I am inspired to not waste any time in this life! Delivering a ceremony that brings tears to a few, as well as hollers of delight from others, is what I am about. Please feel free to call to chat about your ceremony and what you envisage.

Call 0417 156 882 www.kleinert.id.au

Crazy Jane’s Airstream Burger Van Is your event more casual, hipster or outdoors than fine-dining feast?

Specialising in local Gippsland produce, we can cater to all dietary requirements around town – gluten free, vegan, low sugar – you name it. With Proud Mary coffee on-board and milkshakes to boot, call us for your next party.

Call 0456 565 088

Instinctive Graphics Weddings can be expensive, that’s why Instinctive Graphics supplies stunning, unique and fresh stationery at affordable prices. We know you’ve jumped on the socials for inspiration - seen all the beautiful invitations and discovered they’re not so easy to come by. That’s where we can help. As designers we’ll use our skills and knowledge to achieve your dream wedding stationery.

Call 0410 422 277 www.instinctivegraphics.com.au

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Organic Body Treats was born out of a life-long passion that needed to be expressed, explored and most importantly, excelled at.

That’s what makes Organic Body Treats different...

Specialising in Organic Australian Skincare and Makeup

We offer a wide range of treatments to get you ready for your Special Occasion.

-Microdermabrasion to deeply exfoliate and resurface your skin.

-Makeup Application by our talented therapists using Australian Inika Organic Makeup.

34 Thompson Ave, Cowes | 5900 0727 www.organicbodytreats.com.au coast 61

Luxury, experienced sustainably.

Sheltered Glamping provides unique spaces that leave a minimal imprint on our beautiful environment. Nestled amongst magnificent natural bushland and walking distance to one of the most pristine beaches on Phillip Island, create a captivating and memorable experience for your special occasion.

p: 0412 222 632 e: info@shelteredglamping.com.au w: www.shelteredglamping.com.au

Totally unique gift ideas.

The Outer Space is a totally unique, inviting and inspiring place to visit.

Featuring the work of twenty artists and makers from around Gippsland and Victoria specialising in one-off, handmade 3D pieces for your garden, patio or home.

Open Thursday – Sunday 10am-4pm (Winter) Check website for seasonal opening hours a: 140b Whitelaw St, Meeniyan, 3965 p: 0427 375 020 e: theouterspacemeeniyan@gmail.com w: www.theouterspacemeeniyan.com.au

KERNOT STORE

Tucked away in the hills above Grantville, serving up fabulous food, great music and a big country welcome – there are no strangers here, only friends you’ve yet to meet. Woodfired Pizza is a specialty and our lovingly prepared menu features local produce and gluten free options.

We stock a wide range of local wine and beers and our coffee is the best. Licensed until 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Open Thursday and Sunday 10am-8pm Friday and Saturday 10am-10pm. Closed July a: 1075 Lock-Kernot Rd, Kernot p: 5678 8555 w; www.kernotstore.com.au

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Panthers Mensland – Gippsland’s leading Menswear and Wedding Outfit Specialists. From casual through to black tie we’ve got you covered.

p: 5174 1394 Traralgon p: 5126 2874 Moe p: 56625550 Leongatha p: 56725644 Wonthaggi e: panther@gippsland.net.au panthers_mensland

Main Memories Videography

A “

moment lasts all of a second, but the memory lives on forever ” Photo Courtesy - Rebecca Farley Photography

CREATING VIDEOS FOR EVERY OCCASION - Wedding Videography

- Various Media Transfer

- Memorial Tributes (funerals)

- VHS, Cassette, Record, Camcorder to CD/DVD

- Presentations - Events

P.O. Box 353, Wonthaggi, 3995 Bev Main 0418 345 460 M.M.V@bigpond.com mainmemoriesvideography.com.au

Celebration around the corner?

Trulli offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere accompanied by amazing food and personal, friendly service. We have a range of packages and areas to suit every style and size of function.

From intimate sit-down dinners to cocktail-style parties with music and dancing.

Trulli has everything you need to plan a memorable, yet hassle-free event!

Three function areas, both private and public available.

5664 7397 | 93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan (Sth Gipps Hwy) | eat@trullipizzeria.com.au Hours: Wed-Thu: 4-late | Fri-Sun: 12-late www.trullipizzeria.com.au

Special occasion or just because?

Hailing from Italy, we have been making sweets for years, perfecting our product just for you!

Our in-house, hand-made pastries range from single portion tiramisu and profiteroles to cupcakes, gelati and sponge cakes for any occasion. Don’t worry if you don’t have time to pop in, visit us online and we’ll have it ready for you to swing by and pick it up. …And remember, Stressed is just DESSERTS spelled backward!

Gluten free and dairy free products available throughout our range.

Wonthaggi (production on site): 144 Graham St | 5613 9051 Inverloch: 9 Williams St | 5674 6164

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www.gustogelateria.com.au

G I P P S L A N D ’S F I N E S T D I N I N G E X P E R I E N C E

CAPTAIN’S LOUNGE RESTAURANT + FUNCTION ROOM

1 A’Beckett St, Inverloch | 03 5674 1432 | functions@invyespy.com.au | www.invyespy.com.au

Barbershops ARE BACK

Damien Noonan Razor Sharp, Leongatha

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

The last bastion of masculinity – the beard – is back and with it, a new wave of New York style barbers ready to clip, cut, shave and shine that virile display of manhood into the crowning glory of the face.

Hipster fashion and its focus on op shop clothes and rampant facial hair – sparked the renaissance.

“For the first time ever, clothing fashion governed hair choice.

But there was something missing in the hipster movement and it wasn’t the watch and it wasn’t the bling, it was the hair,” says master barber of more than 35 years, Mario Fallace.

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Suddenly beards were taking their styling cues from Vikings.

And bold, unruly manes need managing. Flamboyant whiskers need taming. And where else to get the loving attention your badge of male sexual attractiveness needs than at the one place that celebrates everything it means to be a man – the barber shop.

time to Celebrate

MASTER BARBER

Mario Fallace New York Barbers, Berwick

Master barber Mario Fallace looks like he’s just stepped off the sidewalks of New York during the steampunk era. One of Melbourne’s last formally trained barbers, he seems a world away from his delinquent roots in Clayton – where he was booted from technical school. He now sports a swanky bow tie and vest, and a sharply defined goatee.

“At 15, I fell into the local barber shop. I’m not proud to say it but it was that or jail. My original teacher now works with me and continues to mentor young people.”

In the laneway of his barber shop, a sign tells the story of the barber ‘surgeons’ who once served the community for beard trimming, medicine and surgery – the bloodletting on a white cloth, rinsed and left to hang in the door way, created the symbolic red, white and blue barber pole. “Historically, men never shaved at home. It was once a fortnight at the barber because most men couldn’t afford the utensils you needed to shave – the blade and the strop.”

Over the last six years, Mario noted the rise in men coming through his women’s salon, and the growing attention to beards among retro-loving hipsters. “Old is the new, new.

Service used to be about looking after people. We do over

400 haircuts here in a week and I think that’s because people suddenly feel like somebody is looking after them.”

Like a lemon tree in the back yard, he says the barber shop has returned as a staple in the community. “This is neutral ground.

No rich, no poor. Sometimes when young men didn’t have father figures, the barber shop was where they could come for advice and guidance, to hear a male’s perspective. It’s where the father brings the son, where the boy learns to talk among men. Our young people need a bit of that.”

“It’s where the father brings the son, where the boy learns to talk among men.”

He points to one of his barbers who casts a striking figure with his giant curled moustache. “He came to me two years ago as a broken man. He’s now our team leader. One of the things I love is about giving young people an opportunity to have a life, a career and choices. That’s my buzz.” >

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time to Celebrate

LUMBERSEXUAL STORYTELLER

Damien Noonan Razor Sharp, Leongatha

Damien Noonan could best be described as a lumbersexual.

His hulking frame suggests a man of the land – perhaps a miner hauling coal, or a lumberjack hacking away at towering Gums. But it’s the bushranger beard and his deft use of a razor blade that confirms his status as Leongatha’s resident barber.

He was convinced he’d be the first to leave for the city, but has become one of the town’s stalwarts, cutting hair and trimming beards for more than 25 years from the Compass Arcade on McMartin St. There’s something of the pub in Damien’s barber room. Not just the offer of a whisky or a beer, but a giant red deer head on the wall – the first deer he ever shot in Allambee Reserve, the rugged country of the Strzelecki Ranges.

What’s instantly evident is his warm rapport with the locals, his genuine interest in people and his ability to listen to and tell stories over the buzz of the clippers. The conversation moves effortlessly from the district’s new blacksmithing school, to his client’s car drama after he mistakenly filled his BT50 with petrol, not diesel,130km from home.

While he loves the craft, it’s those every day conversations that inspire this big-hearted barber. “I love that I get to engage with people of all walks of life – teachers, builders, doctors, lawyers,

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soldiers, bikers, artists, criminals, funeral directors – you name it – I’ve had them all in the chair at some point.”

Damien is regarded for his hair art including tattoo-style cut outs like spider webs and footy numbers, but it’s the short blade cuts from war times that are most in demand. “Some of the traditional styles are coming back but they have different names, like skin fades. When I started and there were still a lot of our World War 1 guys around, that was what they had – a short back and sides and bald around the base. That became the army standard because of lice in the trenches.”

“…the last bastion of maleness” Damien says there’s something sacred about a man’s beard and treating it with reverence is all part of the service. “It can take years to grow and you don’t want people to mess it up.

It’s definitely the last bastion of maleness. I’ve had mine for years, before it got trendy. It is good to see guys take a bit more pride in their appearance.” >

CREATE A

Home TOGETHER

WEDDING REGISTRY AVAILABLE

Guests can put money onto an account for the Bride and Groom. The Bride and Groom can then choose items of their choice.

Some of our brands include Maxwell & Williams, Krosno, Casa Domani, Raco, Esteele, KitchenAid, Sunbeam, Breville, Smeg, Miele, LG, Samsung, Westinghouse, Beko, Falmec, Bosch, Panasonic - plus many more all there to help you create the home of your dreams.

Wonthaggi Betta Home Living 15-17 Murray Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995 5672 4733 Mon - Fri: 9-5 Sat: 9-1 sales.wonthaggi@my.betta.com.au coast 69

time to Celebrate

CAREER CHAMELEON

Jack Dent Barber Rant, Wonthaggi

He’s been a plumber, a body builder, a driving instructor, a pool salesman in Toorak for celebrity clients, and now Jack Dent is embarking on an exciting new venture to open an unashamedly male hair domain.

At 46, the chatty Harley rider is completing his Certificate III in Barbering at Chisholm, and happy to be part of the barber shop revival that gives men their own space. “Some people blame The Beatles for the disappearance of the barber shop.

With the long hair, men stopped getting haircuts. Then the unisex salons and spas arrived and while we love women, we also need a place to hide. Men might act all tough in a women’s salon but they’re intimidated in there. The barber is where you can learn to talk amongst men, a bit of banter, like in that movie Gran Torino.”

At Barber Rant, you walk in and write your name on the board, and take in the cool collection of skulls, BMX bikes and upcycled furniture while you wait. “Yes, the hipster culture has brought back the beard but you’re not going to find any gluten-free tacos walking around here,” jokes Jack. He points out a shop across the road which used to be an 8-seat barber shop a few decades ago. “It’s several years since we had a barber shop in town. Now the man sanctuary is back. It’s a

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place where Dads can bring their sons, the haircut’s not just left up to mum. They can talk a bit more freely in here. Nobody has to talk over the sound of hair dryers.”

The return of the barber shop has brought back fond memories for men who knew the ritual as kids. “The smell of Proraso shaving cream, one guy said it reminded him of going to a barber in Coburg with his Grandfather when he was a little boy.”

“Men might act all tough in a women’s salon but they’re intimidated in there.”

This is an experience to savour – a warm towel to soften the skin, a trusted hand for the first pass.

“I’ve had people go to sleep on me,” says Jack. And beyond the pampering, a chance to get things off your chest. “Taxes, how cold it’s been, people doing stupid things on the road, it’s unofficial therapy. They can come in and have a whinge in the chair. Men need to talk too.”

YOUR DESTINATION FOR FANTASTIC FOOD, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND FUNKY COCKTAILS. New owners Rohan Liebelt (former Chef of Black Sheep) & Crystal Harrison have transformed the Black Sheep Tapas & Wine Bar space into the IT place of Inverloch – uber cool and on-trend with a touch of street edge. Famous for cocktails, tapas and a fabulous selection of local wines.

Open for Lunch and Dinner Wednesday-Saturday 11:30am - late Sunday 11:30am - 4pm 8 Williams St, Inverloch 5674 2129 www.ponyinverloch.com.au coast 71

time to Celebrate

Grooms’

CHECKLIST

Put beers in the fridge

Buy a bottle of something strong – you’ll want it to toast with the boys in the morning and take the edge off having the guests stare at you until the bride arrives

Select best man – he’ll make a speech so choose wisely; otherwise you’ll be divorced before the first dance

Get out some cash and place it in an envelope – you don’t know what expenses you’ll need last minute

Find engagement party attire – unless there’s a theme, anything goes except the birthday suit

Wash your hair the night before the ceremony – if time permits get a haircut

Find your passport – you may need it for the honeymoon, if you make it that far

Make sure your car has petrol – a backup plan is always needed

Find a hotel near the reception – not for you, but so you can tell all your mates and freeloading friends, so they don’t crash your house or worse still, your honeymoon suite

Charge GPS the night before and make sure you have the address

Find a suit – if you’re rich, Saville Row should suffice. If not, hire one (let’s be realistic: are you ever going to wear it again?)

Put a handkerchief out next to clean underwear the night before – you’re going to need it when you turn and see your partner walking down the aisle, no matter what you think now

Get dance lessons – no-one likes someone with two left feet and dropping your partner is never a good start

Don’t forget matching socks. Footy socks don’t count!

Get whitening toothpaste and use it – likewise cologne…

Polish your shoes – you should see your reflection in them, not the mud from the stables

Get your partner a gift. Make sure it’s personal, memorable, and legal in all states and territories

Take the good, bad or otherwise pictures before the official photographer arrives

Whilst you’re at it, buy decent gifts for your groomsmen…

Remember to eat – you’ll only get fed at the reception

Bucks party – make sure your best man makes it at least a week before the ceremony. You’ll need a week or two to recover

Write your in-laws and key guests names on your hand

Don’t post the bucks party pics!

Leave the earpiece at home – you can re-watch the sports after the honeymoon

Write your speech – short and sweet is best as you’ll be half tipsy by that point

Pick up your suit at least 15 minutes before the ceremony

Get a tie and practice tying it

Give the rings to your best man or page boy

Cut and clean fingernails – especially farmers, carpenters, labourers, musicians, computer geeks – everyone for that matter

Discreetly note all exits in the venue – you never know when a fire might break out

Create a cute wedding hashtag for Instagram to get social media brownie points from the partner-to-be #harrylovesmeghan2018

Turn your phone off or at least put it on silent and block all the ex’s numbers…

Pack your suitcase for the honeymoon – remember the essentials…

Compliment everyone – the one person you miss won’t like you

Before bidding your other half adieu, the day before the big event, leave a sweet note or touching item for them to find the following morning. Breaking in overnight to hide it is not acceptable

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And remember smile until it hurts – there’s cameras everywhere!

Casual. Hip. Outdoors.

Seasonal, organic produce from Gippsland.

Crazy Jane’s Airstream Burger Van 0456 565 088 03 5634 7617 crazyjanecontact@gmail.com Crazy Jane’s Airstream Burger van

Set on two wheels I can come to your event.

We have catering options to suit every diet, including vegan, vegetarian and allergy friendly menus. Proud Mary ethical coffee is brewed on-board, so you can be sure that all personalities and tastes are catered for by Crazy Jane’s.

crazy_janes coast 73

time to Celebrate Moonah Links The unique setting for weddings, weekend getaways, conferences, executive retreats and special celebrations. The contemporary wide-open rooms or one-bedroom suites overlook the fairways of acclaimed golf courses. Three executive lodges offer 12 private accommodation rooms, and function rooms for up to 120 guests. With accommodation and food and wine packages, our professional, experienced staff can help you plan your perfect event.

Call 5988 2000 www.moonahlinks.com.au

Pony Enhancing and educating the palate with the freshest ingredients and flavours, Pony will surprise and excite even the most discerning guests with our down-toearth but professional service. Our tantalising tapas are created using local produce, which can be perfectly matched with our large selection of local wines and famous cocktails. Live Music & Happy Hour Fridays 4pm – 6pm Call 5674 2129 www.ponyinverloch.com.au

Main Memories Videography Our experienced videographers capture every moment of your day, from getting ready through to the ceremony and reception. We’ll create the story of your wedding in a personalised film that reflects the joy and emotion of your big day. You’ll have a DVD record of the day to cherish forever. Packages now available – call us for more information.

Call 0418 345 460 www.mainmemoriesvideography.com.au

Organic Body Treats Organic Body Treats offer a wide range of treatments to get you ready for your special occasion. Makeup application using Australian Inika Organic Makeup – $75 special occasion, $95 bridal. Pre-prep your skin with a course of Biohydroderm Microdermabrasion to deeply exfoliate and resurface your skin so it looks fresh and radiant for your day – $120 per session. Bulk packages available.

Call 5952 2297 or 0467 638 764 www.organicbodytreats.com.au

Lisa-Anne Prendagast Always one to weave a story and embrace songs of love, Lisa-Anne’s creative passion and impeccable service ensures you receive an extraordinary ceremony.

She will listen to your dreams, desires, and story and guide you in creating the best day of your life, whether it be marriage, commitment, rites of passage, naming day, renewal of vows or memorials.

Call 0417 298 394 www.lisaanne.com.au

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• Sorrento • Flinders • Mt Eliza • Mornington • Malvern • Asia

Art, Transforming Spaces

2018 sees Manyung Gallery Group celebrating a half century (1968 - 2018) of presenting quality Australian painters and sculptors.

Manyung Gallery Group Sorrento: 113A and Suite 6,119 Ocean Beach Road , Sorrento Flinders: 37 Cook Street, Flinders Mount Eliza: 60 Mt Eliza Way, Mount Eliza Mornington: (by appointment) Unit 7, 35 Progress Street, Mornington Malvern: 6 -10 Claremont Avenue, Malvern View 150 artists and over 2000 artworks on-line www.manyunggallery.com.au For preview or purchase enquiries please call [all galleries] on 03 9787 2953 or email staff@manyunggallery.com.au

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celebration Directory

Accommodation

Anchor Belle, Cowes P.110 www.anchorbelle.com.au 5952 2258 The Sheltered Glamping Co., Ventnor P.62 www.shelteredglamping.com.au 0412 222 632 Villa Collina, Woolamai P.51 www.villacollina.com.au 5678 7024

Accommodation & Receptions

Island Bay Ranch, Newhaven, P. 55 www.islandbay.com.au 5956 7457

Peppers Moonah Links Resort, Fingal P.42 www.moonahlinks.com.au 1300 987 600 RACV Inverloch Resort P.49 www.racv.com.au/inverloch 5674 0000

Celebrants & Wedding Planning

Di Kleinert, Mornington Peninsula, P.52 www.kleinert.id.au 0417 156 882

Jacky Webster, Inverloch P.58 jackywebster.wixsite.com/jwebstercelebrant 0402 157 764 Jenny Milkins, Wonthaggi P.45 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com 0439 320 099 Lisa-Anne Prendagast, Phillip Island, P.47 www.lisaanne.com.au 0417 298 394

Kernot Food & Wine Store P.62 www.kernotstore.com.au 5678 8555 Pony, Inverloch P.71 ponyinverloch.com.au 5674 2129 Sweet Life Cakes, Leongatha P.53 0409 863 299 Trulli Pizzeria, Meeniyan P.64 www.trullipizzeria.com.au 5664 7397

Hair, Health & Beauty Abstract Hair, Wonthaggi P.56 www.abstracthair.studio 5672 2513 Hair Bair, Leongatha P.56 www.hairbairs.com.au 5662 4777 Jamp Hair, Leongatha P.54 www.jamphairstudio.com 5662 0141 Organic Body Treats, Cowes P.61 www.organicbodytreats.com.au 5952 2297 / 0467 638 764 Shampoo Avenue, San Remo P.54 www.shampooavenue.com.au 5678 5826 We Chose Forever, Sorrento P.52 0427 279 135

Jewellery, Gifts and Galleries Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery, Meeniyan P.5 www.lacyjewellery.com.au 5664 0055

LS Financial, South Gippsland, P.58 www.lsfinancebroking.com.au 0429 121082

Manyung Gallery Group P.75 www.manyunggallery.com.au 9787 2953

Over the Top Events, Phillip Island P.36 www.overthetopevents.com.au 5952 1791

Mookah Studio, P.34 www.mookah.com.au Inverloch 5608 0479/ Warragul 5618 6638

Fashion

Southern Bazaar, Inverloch P.119 www.southernbazaar.com.au 0407 414 895

Intimo, P.46 www.intimo.com.au 0418 752 705 Maria’s Bridal Studio, Wonthaggi P.50 www.mariasbridalstudio.com.au 0438 483 502 Panthers Menswear, P.62 5174 1394 Sketa P.21 Mornington 5976 3311 / Sorrento 5984 0927

Florists

Flowers of Phillip Island, Cowes P.59 www.flowersofphillipisland.com.au

Food, Drink & Parties

Crazy Jane’s Airstream Burger Van P.73 0456 565 088 Esplanade Hotel, Inverloch P.65 www.invyespy.com.au 5674 1432

Gusto Gelateria, Wonthaggi & Inverloch P.64 5674 6164

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The Outer Space, Meeniyan P.62 www.theouterspacemeeniyan.com.au 0427 375 020 Tyde, Cowes P.34 5951 9945 Wonthaggi Betta Home Living, Wonthaggi P.69 5672 4733

Photography & Videos

Passion 8 Photography, Melbourne & Inverloch P.41 www.passion8.com.au 0418 331 162 Main Memories Videography, Wonthaggi P.63 www.mainmemoriesvideography.com.au 0418 345 460

Stationery

Instinctive Graphics, Mornington Peninsula P. 57 www.instinctivegraphics.com.au 0410 422 277

Venues & Receptions The Cape Kitchen, Newhaven P.38 www.thecapekitchen.com.au 5956 7200

Celebrate GOOD TIMES

LO C A L P R O D U C E AT I T S B E S T. 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.

135 Marine Pde, San Remo, VIC 3925. Phone: 5678 5337. Fax: 5678 5756. sanremoiga

sanremosupermarket

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words katie cincotta photos warren reed

artist profile

Renaissance

Woman

At 61, the twisting bone erosion and joint deformity of rheumatoid arthritis forced Brigitte Dawson to turn her focus inwards.

Brigitte Dawson felt the effect of her ailing body as a sudden urgency, a sense that time was running out for her to make her mark as an artist. Watching her partner Robert Cauzzo recover from cancer further fuelled her artistic ambitions. If not now, then when?

Three years ago, Brigitte and her partner moved to Tooradin after the town’s Chinese restaurant of thirty years came up for sale. “We gutted it – pulled up the old red carpet and found hardwood floors underneath. Then began the artistic transformation that would turn the humble weatherboard into a homage to the sea.

What rose up from the depths of Brigitte’s imagination was an underwater theme inhabited by sculptural seahorses, a mural of mermaids guarding treasure, and the rambling tentacles of a Krakken-style octopus encircling the mouth of the wood-fire oven. “He’s in charge of the pizza, looking at us with that one eye,” she laughs.

Running a restaurant is never without its pressures, but Brigitte sensed it was time to prioritise her art – to finally cement a signature style, which identifies every artist like the intricate emblem of a thumbprint. What began as oil painting at fifteen under the tutelage of Brian Nash and later John Balmain soon branched out into an exploration of mediums beyond

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the canvas, including murals and sculpture in marble, clay, sandstone and papier mâché.

Her voracious appetite to learn the techniques and secrets of the Italian masters turned her into what she calls ‘a school junkie.’ “I love so many art forms, but Michelangelo is my hero.

I studied a year of marble sculpture at Holmesglen, and two years of bronze at RMIT. I was ready to go to Italy to study but I didn’t quite make it. When I die, I’ll just have to stalk Michelangelo. I’ll find him.” We ponder whether the finger of God from the Sistine Chapel might point the way.

Brigitte finds the realism of Michelangelo’s work beyond compare. “It just looks alive. He was one of the artists who made Renaissance art ever more real; the bodies twisting and turning.” She says part of capturing that aesthetic is understanding the importance of light and dark, in being able to create the perception of depth using contrast. “It’s one thing to learn how to paint, but it’s another to learn how to see. In learning the chiaroscuro technique of the Old Masters, that’s when I fell in love … capturing the light and dark like Caravaggio and Rembrandt.”

During her earlier career as a hairdresser, Brigitte felt she was always exploring colours and textures, often entering the Avant-Garde section of competitions. She was invited

to compete for Australia in the World Cup in Greece but declined the spot as her son was only two years old. “I kept thinking ‘one day it will be my turn’, but ‘one day’ never comes, especially when you’re a mother. And it’s silly, because it’s not good for the kids. They should see you aspiring to be the best that you can be.”

While Brigitte had several opportunities to study art at university, she didn’t feel she could commit to the process given the financial pressures of a mortgage and the demands of running a farm in Gippsland. She says living simply and sustainably served to nourish her creative instincts. “We bought farms, first at Berwick and then Nar Nar Goon. We were living the hippy lifestyle: I used to spin my own wool, make our own bread and butter.”

The tide turned when Brigitte moved to Tooradin to set up the restaurant and gallery La Casa Sawtellis with Rob; whom she met 13 years’ beforehand when she was painting a mural for his restaurant. In a very literal sense, art brought them together.

“Rob was a concreter by trade, and when he started experimenting with epoxy resin surfaces and commercial dyes, I said to him, ‘You should be painting with this’. I like to

think I was his muse, though he would never admit that,” she teases. Sometimes the two artists collaborate, Brigitte painting on Rob’s giant technicolour works.

For their restaurant’s upcoming Legends music night by tribute performer Mark Andrew, Brigitte has created giant acrylic paintings of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and Janis Joplin which will be sold on the night. The portraits capture the spontaneous realism of Austrian artist Voka, who has established a new take on the pop art genre with his use of quick brush strokes of acrylic paint.

Brigitte admires Voka’s style, but is intent on carving her own path. “For years I strive for a certain style, but I feel I get there by accident.” Surely that’s how most great art is born – manifesting itself through both inspiration and experimentation.

“The kind of realism I’m interested in doesn’t look like photographs; it’s clearly painting. I just want to take the edge off it, twist it a little bit. Melbourne artist David Chen sums it up best when he says you should never be a slave to the photo.”

This year is looking momentous for Brigitte’s art profile. She’s set to appear in the TV art show ‘Colour In Your Life’ and will

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“I just want to take the edge off it, twist it a little bit.” showcase her Peek-A-View range at the Melbourne Pregnancy, Babies & Children’s Expo at South Wharf.

Peek-A-View is one of the projects she’s most excited about.

It’s a range of children’s murals she’s created in collaboration with her son Shane, a creative director in advertising. “People want murals but sometimes don’t want to pay for a custom mural, so I’ve been working on a hanging concept. They look like a window on the wall and we’ve now got 20 different designs. They’re designed to give children a giggle. I like art that makes me smile.”

The framed animation scenes are playful, with unique characters such as Billy, Bo and Ted set in evocative natural settings. “I’ve loved being a mother and having kids and grandkids, so I’ve really enjoyed doing Peek-A-View. And it’s not just a painting, it’s a concept for the room. We’re doing a picture book, quilts, t-shirts and dolls,” says Brigitte. It’s one more element she’s adding to her detailed repertoire. Perhaps it’s that artistic versatility that is her signature.

Like her idol, Michelangelo, her mastery of so many variances of Realism and Sculpture have fashioned her into the archetypal Renaissance Woman – her vivid murals, sculptures and portraiture are both whimsical and vulnerable. “The fading

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of life and beauty from the world is a tragedy that often makes me feel small and powerless, but through art, I’ve found a way to do my own small part to preserve the beauty of the world around me.” If you had to coin a term for it, you might consider Brigitte Dawson’s art as ‘soulful realism’. Every piece makes you feel a little of the fragility of the mind, appreciate the intricacy of the human body and marvel at the wonder of the natural world – powerful images that only a true artist can evoke from the viewer.

BUT YOU CAN’T LIVE ON ART ALONE When you get hungry we offer an authentic Italian a la carte menu with wood-fired pizza, parmas and burgers from around the world.

Plus we make a wicked cup of coffee. We have a great beer garden and are available for functions.

La Casa Sawtellis. Restaurant Gallery.

5998 3837 | 129 Sth Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin 3980 9am – 3pm, Thursday – Sunday | 6pm till close, Thursday – Saturday sawtellis@iprimus.com.au LaCasaSawtellis R E S TA U R A N T E

GALLERIA

59 98 38 37

Peace by Piece.

Using mosaics is telling a story in small pieces.

Mosaic Classes with Heather Fahnle.

COMMISSIONS WELCOME

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: heather@fahnle.com.au | t: 0417 562 625

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5things Wonthaggi

WE LOVE ABOUT

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RIPS, REEFS AND ROCKS Isolated, yet spirited and energetic, the 12km of coastline between Coal Point and Kilcunda is an unbroken haven for surfers and fishermen. But beware the rips and hefty waves that bear the brunt of wild south-westerlies, a hazard for dippers.

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Wonthaggi Betta Home Living is a third-generation family owned and operated business. Known throughout Gippsland for exceptional service, competitive prices and an extensive range of products.

With unparalleled knowledge and advice, the team at Wonthaggi Betta Home Living can help you choose the right products to create your dream home; at competitive prices and to suit all budgets. You can trust we will always go above and beyond.

Our extensive and unique kitchenware & homewares section - that diversifies from your typical Betta store - includes Maxwell & Williams, Krosno, Circulon, Anolon, Raco, Casa Domani, Avanti, Scanpan plus many more; guaranteeing you can complete your kitchen in one place.

Wonthaggi Betta Home Living is also South & West Gippsland’s only Weber BBQ Specialist Dealer, offering the full range of BBQ’s and accessories.

Believing in the importance of community, owners Kanen and Leanne Dicker have always made it a priority to support local organisations, including sports groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations. You can trust your experience is in safe hands.

Wonthaggi Betta Home Living 15-17 Murray Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995 5672 4733 Mon - Fri: 9-5 Sat: 9-1

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sales.wonthaggi@my.betta.com.au

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The best i g g a h t n o W of

Latest news and products from your Wonthaggi retailers

ArtSpace High-calibre contemporary art gallery and gift shop

Connells Bakery Cakes, coffee, pies, bread and more‌

Rigby Homemakers Centre Quality furniture and bedding

EcoLiv Seven-star modular homes

Wonthaggi Garden Supplies Stock up on all the winter essentials

Beaumont Concepts Contemporary sustainable home designers

State Coal Mine Step back time and explore the underground life

Murray St Bazaar Weird, wacky and wonderful retro, vintage and artistic collections

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TS Constructions Stunning spaces finished to perfection

THE SIGN OF GOOD ADVICE C E RT I F I E D F I N A N C I A L P L A N N E R®

WHERE TO FROM HERE?

Providing specialist financial advice in: Wealth Creation/Investing Retirement Planning Superannuation Life/Personal Insurance

Suite 3/33 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi | Phone: 5672 2205 Email: enquiry@markfarmerfs.com.au | Web: www.markfarmerfs.com.au MARK FARMER IS AN AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE OF GWM SERVICES LIMITED, AN AUSTRALIAN FINANCIAL SERVICES LICENCEE WITH IT’S REGISTERED OFFICE AT 105-153 MILLER STREET NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2060.

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Sustainable design, Smart living

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

Multi Award Winning Building Designer of Contemporary Sustainable Homes.

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

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au coast 88

www.ecoliv.com.au

LESLIE MONAHAN |

Missed The Boat |

URSULA THEINERT |

Forest Doorways

BEV MITCHELL |

Digital Print

|

Owl |

Linocut and Ink

Digital Inkjet Print

F U N C T I O N S A N D S M A L L E V E N T S FA C I L I T I E S THE WONTHAGGI CENTENNIAL CENTRE, 1 BENT STREET

|

O P E N 7 D AY S , 10 . 0 0 A M TO 4 . 0 0 P M

W W W. A R T S PA C E W O N T H A G G I . C O M . A U | P H O N E : 0 3 5 6 7 2 5 7 6 7 | A R T S PA C E N Q U I R I E S @ G M A I L . C O M COMMUNITY GALLERY | SUPPORTING REGIONAL ARTISTS | REGULAR EXHIBITIONS

The best i of Wonthagg About Bass Coast Hearing Surfers earplugs made to order

Latest news and products from your Wonthaggi retailers

Parklands Coastal Estate The lifestyle change for you

Capeview Building Products Frames, trusses & more for your next project

Wonthaggi Betta Home Leading Weber retailer in South & West Gippsland

Coldon Homes Experts in coastal homes for over 50 years

BEANd Pleasurable coffee and cakes to warm cold hands

Andrew Donohue Building Design Creating beautiful spaces for people

The Wonthaggi Market Hand-made, upcycled, vintage and retro goods, furniture and curious

Mark Farmer Financial Specialist financial guidance

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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

We supply a full range of accessories including custom earplugs for musicians and surfers to help guard against surfer’s ear and noise-induced hearing loss.

Wonthaggi

Shop 5 Plaza Walk Arcade, 23-29 Murray Street, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 Ph 03 5672 5598 | Fax 03 5672 5594 Open 9:30am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday

Cowes

Cowes Medical Clinic, 164-166 Thompson Ave, Cowes VIC 3922 03 5672 5598 By Appointment Only

Inverloch

Inverloch Medical Clinic, 18 Reilly St, Inverloch VIC 3196 03 5672 5598 By Appointment Only

In, around and about the Bass Coast since 2007.

Frankston

Cranbourne Road Medical Clinic, 116 Cranbourne Rd, VIC 3199 03 5672 5598 By Appointment Only

COLLECTABLE

KITSCH

17 KORUMBURRA RD, WONTHAGGI (OPPOSITE BUNNINGS) 0419 342 815 OPEN 7 DAYS 9.30AM – 4.30PM

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COOL

5things Wonthaggi WE LOVE ABOUT

COUNTLESS CROSSINGS Agriculture surrounds the journey into Wonthaggi, green pastures with stunning horizons over the vast landscape. Remnants of the past and present beef and dairy industries reflect life-long struggles, livelihoods and hard work.

With premium brands like La-Z-Boy, IMG Norway, Sealy Posturepedic and Sleepmaker, along with the extensive range of furniture and bedding available through Homemakers Furniture buying group, you can be assured all your requirements will be satisfied.

24 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi, VIC, 3995 5672 5906 Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm Sat: 9am - 2:00pm www.homemakersfurniture.com.au

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and Wolf on Murray fine food cafe

- Over 30 stalls of vintage, locally crafted goods, clothing, plants, jewellery and exotica.

- Nina De Bono - Mindfulness Practioner, Counsellor and Coach. Mindfulness meditation & discussion: Thursdays from 12pm $10, Saturdays from 10am $20.

Phone Nina 0408 512 120.

- Wolf on Murray for a delicious meal or sublime coffee.

Weird, Wacky and Wonderful Antiques, Vintage and More.

1 Murray Street, 3995 Wonthaggi ( enter thru Wolf on Murray Cafe ) 0419 362 978. 9am til 5pm, closed Tues, Open Sun til 4pm.

Photo Credit: Foons Photography

GIPPSLAND’S LEADING SUPPLIER OF

GIPPSLAND’S LEADING SUPPLIER OF:

Frames & Trusses, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Shower Screens & Wardrobes, Windows & Doors

Cape Paterson Rd, Wonthaggi, Selection Gallery next to Mitre10 Office: 5672 4890 Selections Gallery: 5672 0630 Monday – Friday: 8–4. info@capeviewbuildingproducts.com.au www.capeviewbuildingproducts.com.au See us on facebook

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Frames & Trusses Kitchens & Bathrooms Shower Screens & Wardrobes Windows & Doors

5things Wonthaggi WE LOVE ABOUT

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Tastebuds aroused, chatter had and catch-ups complete.

Whether take-away or sit-down, Wonthaggi’s options are endless…

JOURNEY TO YESTERYEAR Fifty-one years ago, the superheated steam whistle rang for the last time. One year later the final shift walked from the tunnels.

IF YOU KNEW COFFEE LIKE WE KNOW COFFEE.

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

Specialises in coffee, breakfast, lunch and sweets BEANd SAN REMO 4/157 Marine Pde. Open 7am – 4pm, 6 days (closed Wednesday) BEANd WONTHAGGI 132 Graham St. Open 8am – 3.30pm, 5 days (closed Saturday + Sunday) 0407 717 588 email: hello@beand.com.au www.beand.com.au

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Creating places for people Home is where the heart is, and choosing a designer for your home is possibly one of the hardest decisions you will have to make.

Andrew Donohue: 5672 1967 studio@adbuildingdesign.com.au adbuildingdesign.com.au

C O M E I N A N D T RY our new Winter Menu or let us cater for your next function.

WONTHAGGI

33-35 Murray Street, Wonthaggi, VIC 3995 (03) 5672 1050 MON-FRI 6am - 4:30pm SAT 7am - 2pm

BASS

Baked fresh from our family to yours

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2460 Bass Highway, Bass, VIC, 3991 (03) 5678 2133 MON-FRI 6:30am - 3pm SAT 8am - 3pm

WONTHAGGI’S FIRST MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITY

Stage 3 Now Selling

Land from $135,000 Stage 1 & 2 Sold Out

Lot Sizes 462 - 1226m2

REGISTER TODAY | 1300 WONTHAGGI (966 842) | parklandswonthaggi.com.au

A Garden of Thoughts

In November we relocated our lovely little shop to a fabulous larger space – just across the road; with more room to spread out your favourite brands and our ever-expansive range. Now stocking clothing, as well as jewellery, giftware, baby presents, home fragrance, accessories and homewares.

Come in and see us at our new store.

Second generation shed builders and accredited B&D dealers. A registered builder, John Ryan offers a boutique style service, design advice and professional project management from start to finish. Residential, commercial and industrial applications built to last, but designed to save you money.

Visit our comprehensive show room for a try before you buy experience.

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm (Winter) a: 143 Graham Street, Wonthaggi p: 5672 1622 barbie.ann.muller@gmail.com

Open 9am-5pm or by appointment a: 1/303 White Road Wonthaggi p: 5672 1846 / 0418 121 391 e: bcgarages@bigpond.com w: www.basscoastgarages.com.au

Raneye Systems – your security specialists providing South Gippsland and surrounds with quality service for more than 30 years. Diverse range of commercial & domestic security. We also supply, install and maintain an array of systems including data, entertainment and surveillance. Our knowledge, experience, qualifications and expertise are your guarantee of a quality product.

Open Monday - Friday 9am-5pm Saturday by appointment a: 61 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi p: 1300 32 42 52 e: steve@raneye.com.au

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We stock split Redgum firewood and split local firewood, along with kindling. We deliver to all areas. We also carry a great range of mulches, soil, sand, pebbles, toppings. Our range of pots, wine barrels, garden tools, bespoke pavers and feature rocks make us your one stop shop for landscaping your garden. With an in-house landscaper and displays we can help you create the outdoor living area of your dreams.

11 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi 5672 3757 Open 7 Days M-F: 7am–4.30pm SAT: 8am–2pm SUN: 9am–12noon info@wonthaggigardensupplies.com.au www.wonthaggigardensupplies.com.au

UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE. Welcome to the State Coal Mine with free site entry to all above ground facilities including its beautiful gardens, the fairy garden, a picnic area with BBQs and modern cafe facility. It is a destination you can spend most of the day at and at the same time take the adventure underground (fees apply).

Opening hours 10am – 4.30pm 7 days a week. Underground tours run daily at 11.30am and 2.00pm, additional tours during holiday periods.

Garden Street, Wonthaggi | Phone 8427 2118 | www.statecoalmine.com.au

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5things Wonthaggi WE LOVE ABOUT

SHOW TIME In the silence, the splitting of a cake takes place – will it win this year? A short stroll away, kelpies muster the sheep in a display of control and finesse. The yearly show brings together creatures, folks, classics and cuisine in a grand celebration.

Traditional fish and chips with a Mediterranean twist. Our menu has your everlasting favourites, from fresh flathead, flake, barramundi, blue grenadier to burgers, souvlaki, corn jacks and hot dogs in batter.

Balance it with one of our delicious salads or choose a meal pack. Open 10am until late.

Open 10am until late everyday a: 2 Biggs Dr (Wonthaggi Plaza), Wonthaggi p: 5672 2777

Timeless, delectable treats done right.

Whether you are in the mood for Devonshire Tea or hot home-made soup, we have something to suit all tastebuds. Our light meals hit the spot at lunchtime, whilst our scrumptious cakes will take care of dessert cravings. A hit with young and old alike, with space to seat twenty.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am-3.30pm for meals then 3.30-5.00pm for coffee and cake a: 321 White Road Wonthaggi (in the Delicious Vintage Love building) p: 0419 576 638

It’s easy to see the difference.

If you’re looking for quality eye care and great service, with fashionable, on-trend or even unique frames, we have all the options to suit your personal style. Allow our qualified team to assist with all your eye care needs. Book an appointment today.

Open Monday & Tuesday 10am-4pm Wednesday - Friday 10am-5pm or by appointment a: 19 Murray Street Wonthaggi p: 5672 1965 e: akerseyewear@aanet.com.au

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed and supplied

Endangered Species You could describe Paul Mannix as a slightly endangered species in the surfing world. While he concedes that kneeboarding may be a dying art, he’s determined to keep his surfing style alive and is more than happy to tell you why …

For fifty per cent of Phillip Island’s surfing scene, I need to explain that this story is about the man they know simply as ‘Turtle’. Nothing to do with the speed he moves at; the name was bestowed upon him by a schoolmate who decided he had eyes like a turtle. Those green eyes shine as he recalls how the name just stuck. “Some people don’t even know my real name. I’m now Paul to half the people I know, but in the old days, I was just Turtle.”

Little Turtle started visiting Phillip Island from his home in Mulgrave before he could walk. His dad had connections to Woolamai Surf Club, so summers were spent with his

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brother and sister on the beach, paddling in the shore break on their surf mats and getting massively sunburnt. “We’d burn to a crisp, peel a few times and then we’d be darkskinned for the rest of summer.”

He and his brother were always competing to catch the biggest white water they could, their surf mats like ‘bucking broncos’. Paul recalls paddling out beyond the breakers to sit with the big guys when he was about ten. His love of surfing and the coast were set for life.

It was a natural progression from a surf mat to 360s on a boogie board and then onto a kneeboard. Paul chose

surfer profile

this surfing style in a different era, when the style was big and Phillip Island was home to a large kneeboarding community.

to the water gives you a fantastic sensation of speed and closeness to the wave. And you get more barrels, which is the best bit!”

“I started knocking around with a few kneeboarders and gave it a try. I’ve been kneeboarding for over thirty years now, and I love it.” I get the sense that he could talk endlessly about the style that he says is easy to learn but difficult to master – the opposite of stand-up surfing. “It’s a wider, more stable board, but harder to get on the rail and do turns – and you don’t have the shock absorbers of your legs.” He simply loves it because it’s fun. “Being lower

Kneeboarders often require a thick skin. He sometimes stands up for a laugh when he senses a little bit of what he calls ‘kneeboard racism’. ‘Why don’t you stand up?’ they heckle out the back between sets. So, on the very next wave, he’ll be surfing stand-up – flippers and all!

When Paul joined Phillip Island Boardriders Club in the eighties he recalls having to battle his way through heats >

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against champs such as Neil Luke, Johnny ‘Rotten’ Hoyne and Gavin Lewis. He describes the ‘pinnacle of his career’ as winning the aggregate for the 21-28-year age division for Australia in 1995.

“I love the sea, the beaches, the fishing, the seasons…”

Kneeboard comps may now be dwindling in numbers, but they retain their laid-back vibe. He still loves competing in the Phillip Island Kneeboard Pro, mainly because it allows him to catch up with his ‘kneelo’ mates from around Australia. “It’s more of a social gathering – having some laughs, swapping stories. The Island Pro is the longest-running kneelo comp in the world, only second behind Bells as the longest-running surf comp ever,” he says proudly.

Lately his favourite comp is the Phillip Island Teams Challenge run by Phillip Island National Surfing Reserve and open to a range of surfing styles. “The vibe is great and it’s really cool seeing everyone from the local surf community come together. I’m on Team Archysurf and we won the event last year!”

Paul has travelled and surfed around Australia and the world: he spent three years cruising the Australian coast in a Landrover ex-army ambulance he fitted out. “It was like my turtle-shell vehicle.” He saw a lot of beautiful coastline but admits he couldn’t find anything better than Phillip Island. “I always knew I’d move back here. I love the sea, the beaches, the fishing, the seasons, the cool in winter – there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

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A mysterious reef break near Kitty Miller Bay which works only on specific winds, tides and swells is his favourite Island wave.

He doesn’t surf it nearly as much these days, preferring to get home to wife Luci, four-year-old Jack and three-year-old Ava. But Luci often tells him to go and surf because she knows he’ll come back happier. “It’s an integral part of my life: it makes me feel revived. I like my friends at the beach and hope that I can surf for many years to come. I admire people like Dave Fincher who surfed until the end. I would like to think that I’ll be surfing well into my grandfatherhood – but let’s wait and see…”

His philosophy in life is to have a go. “Always try your best and always try to be good,” he advises. For now, Paul is looking forward to watching his kids grow up, enjoying waves and taking more surf trips. He’s also passionate about his role as manager of San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op. “I’m looking forward to building the co-op further and making sure the fishing industry in San Remo is here to stay.” And just like fishing, he’s determined to ensure kneeboarding doesn’t die out…

Creating HEALTHY HABITATS FOR FISH

For the past decade, Richard Allen has quietly gone to war with an invasive species that threatens some of our most beloved waterways.

words supplied photo warren reed

As a keen fisherman, Richard knows unhealthy waterways have an enormous impact on the fish population. Luckily, his passion for fishing intersects neatly with his role as a Project Coordinator for West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA). Part of his job involves overseeing a weed control program aimed at eradicating Spartina, an invasive weed that can destroy inter-tidal zones and habitat.

Originally introduced in the 1920s to help reclaim mud flats and prevent erosion, Spartina quickly became invasive, with catastrophic impacts on local ecosystems. For environmentally sensitive and important areas like Corner Inlet and Anderson Inlet, Spartina is particularly problematic.

Because Spartina forms in dense clumps and traps sediment, over time it raises the level of the ground above the high tide mark. This can reduce estuaries and shallow harbours into thin drains and for the fish and the local migratory birds, this can be disastrous.

“Ten years ago, we started to seriously focus on Spartina, particular in the creeks and rivers,” said Richard. “Unfortunately, Anderson Inlet has a massive infestation and we’ve worked to control it by targeting the creeks that flow into the Inlet.

When Spartina is left unchecked, it means less habitat for the worms and invertebrates that fish and birds feed off. Basically, it reduces the natural flora and fauna and disrupts the food chain.”

the channels open. These channels include popular fishing and boat access spots such as the mouth of the Tarwin River and Fisherman’s Jetty.”

Richard said over the past ten years, the amount of Spartina at Anderson Inlet has been reduced by ninety-five per cent within the creeks. “Our efforts have mainly concentrated on Screw, Pound and Cherry Tree creeks on the northern shorelines. If you’ve been on the walking tracks at Screw Creek, you would have passed some of the areas that we’ve targeted.”

Controlling Spartina has improved the water quality in this important estuary and allowed vital plants, such as seagrass, mangrove and saltmarsh to re-establish.

This has improved the breeding sites for local birds and international migratory species.

“Our long term aim is to reduce the size and density of Spartina patches, to the point that it will only need follow-up monitoring and response” explained Richard.

“We know the work that’s been done over the past five years has significantly improved the coastal environment. That’s good news for the habitat, for fish, birds and local fishermen.”

This program is delivered in partnership with Parks Victoria through funding from the Victorian State Government.

Part of a broader program in South Gippsland, the Spartina control program at Anderson Inlet has significantly reduced the weed cover. “We’ve used ground spraying in combination with targeted aerial spraying, which concentrated on keeping

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Angel’s Health Foods

eat, drink & harvest guide

74 Chapel St, Cowes 5952 3398 Organic and locally sourced-produce, health foods, supplements and clinic space

Bass Strait Direct 1/24-26 Boys Home Rd, Newhaven 5956 7980 Fresh local seafood open Tues-Fri 8.30am-5pm & Sat 9am-4pm

BEANd 4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo 132 Graham St, Wonthaggi 0407 717 588 Hand-roasted coffee, specialising in breakfast & lunch

Chill Bill – The Wonthaggi Market 17 Korumburra Rd, Wonthaggi Fresh coffee, wraps, juices and homemade snacks

Captain’s Lounge, Level 1 @ The Invy Espy Hotel 1 A’Beckett St, Inverloch 5674 1432 Relaxed oasis with fine food, drinks, exceptional service and views

Freedom Organics Cannibal Creek Vineyard 260 Tynong North Rd, Tynong Nth 5942 8380 Gourmet Traveller recommended French-inspired food and wine – open seven days

The Cape Kitchen 1215 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven 5956 7200 Ocean views, fresh produce, brilliant breakfast & lunch, pop-up dinners

Coffee Traders 3 Blake St, Mornington 5977 1177 Quality food and coffee in Mornington’s iconic vine-covered cafe

Connells Bakery 33-35 Murray St, Wonthaggi 5672 1050 Freshly baked goods with new Winter menu

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127 Marine Pde, San Remo 5603 3681 Locally grown, organic and raw produce and whole foods

Gusto 9 Williams St, Inverloch 144 Graham St, Wonthaggi 5674 6164/5613 9051 Gelato, cakes and pastry, made by hand

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

Ionian Food & Wine Store 6/2 Biggs Dr, Wonthaggi 5672 2777 Traditional fish and chips with a Mediterranean twist

Kernot Food & Wine

RACV Inverloch

1075 Loch-Kernot Rd, Kernot 5678 8555 Rustic wood-fired pizza delights

70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch 5674 0000 Simply good food with million-dollar views

Kilcunda General Store 3535 Bass Hwy, Kilcunda 5678 7390 Friendly staff and fresh local ingredients, a breakfast favourite

Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel 3531-3533 Bass Hwy, Kilcunda 5678 7011 Top notch bistro food, friendly service, fabulous view

La Casa Sawtellis 129 South Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin 5998 3837 Authentic à la carte Italian in a relaxed family-orientated setting

Manhattan in Mornington 55 Barkly St, Mornington 5976 4867 Traditional Italian meets contemporary, with house-baked bread and fresh pasta.

Nobbies Centre

1320 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands 5951 2816 Functions and café with panoramic ocean views

Nui Dat Café – Vietnam Veterans’ Museum 25 Veterans Dr, Newhaven 5956 6400 Best fudge brownies and lunchtime menu

Orange Box Café 321 White Rd, South Dudley 0419 576 638 Timeless, delectable treats, Devonshire tea, home-made soup and light meals

Pebbles Restaurant @ Peppers Moonah Links Resort Peter Thomson Dr, Fingal 5988 2000 A fine dining experience with sumptuous seasonal and regional ingredients

Sweet Life Café & Cakes 11 Bair St, Leongatha 0409 863 299 Cakes and desserts for all occasions including gluten freee

Trulli Pizzeria 93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan 5664 7397 ‘True’ southern Italian style pizza, pasta and chargrilled meats

Wonthaggi State Coal Mine Café Garden St, Wonthaggi 5672 3053 Delicious scones, soup and homemade meals

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

Pony 8 Williams St, Inverloch 5674 2129 Your destination for fantastic food, exceptional service and funky cocktails

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words maria reed photos warren reed

dine out

Radius

ON YOUR RADAR

As autumn turns to winter and the days become chillier, there is nothing more satisfying than indulging in a hearty, wholesome and comforting meal. Radius restaurant at the RACV Inverloch Resort invites everyone to enjoy delicious food and wine in the comfort of their relaxed restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean.

Executive chef Rohan McCullagh loves a challenge, and has created a menu to excite a variety of tastes and palates. “The resort is such a diverse property. It offers hotel stays, premium villas, cabins, conferences – even a family-oriented caravan park! Our relaxed restaurant and lounge are open to the public and our members. We try to cater for all tastes and occasions, and after five years in this position, I think we’ve got the balance just right.”

“I love cooking rich, hearty winter meals that are nourishing and comforting.”

We take a seat by the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking native bushland and the ocean beyond. The restaurant is modern and light-filled, with relaxed yet stylish décor. “With these million-dollar views, people often think we are a fine

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dining restaurant, but we really want to make people feel at home with simply good food.”

Inspired by the seasons, Chef Rohan loves to work with the seasonal produce on offer to inspire his creations. “We use as much local produce as possible, including Pasture Pecker free-range eggs, Chapman’s butchery, Gippsland mushrooms, Fish Creek olive oil and Amber Creek smallgoods (to name just a few). Winter-time is a favourite of the chef. With a new menu on the way, he smiles, “I love cooking rich, hearty winter meals that are nourishing and comforting.”

Our waitress Louise delivers our entrée, bush pepper and smoked salt calamari on a citrus and fennel salad with garlic aioli. Not only a delight for the eyes, but also the taste buds.

Lightly fried and perfectly seasoned calamari melts in the mouth and works beautifully with the rich creaminess of the garlic aioli. The clean tang of the citrus and fennel salad cuts through the rich aioli and balances the meal perfectly. This is a light, refreshing dish I will definitely order again. >

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We peruse the extensive wine list and are suitably impressed by the local varieties and choices on offer. By the bottle or glass, there’s something to please everyone. There are a variety of cocktails to order, bottled beers and beer on tap. We decide on a Lucinda Estate Chardonnay from South Gippsland, which matches seamlessly with our seafood entrée.

It’s hard not to be distracted by the panoramic view from our table that extends from Eagles Nest to the distant Prom. It’s the perfect place to sit and relax regardless of the elements outside – it’s warm and inviting inside and allows you an almost ‘cinematic’ view of nature. The local wildlife is very much at home here amid the property’s swathes of native bushland. We laugh at a cheeky heron that struts past our window, admiring his reflection.

It’s beautifully presented, with colours bouncing off the plate.

Our mains arrive looking mouth-watering. I’ve chosen the barramundi with candied eggplant and black olive caramel.

It’s beautifully presented, with colours bouncing off the plate.

The crispy-skinned, succulent barra sits atop a flavour-filled ragu of zucchini, tomato and capers, with spears of vibrant green asparagus. With a dash of saltiness from the black olive caramel and sweetness of the candied eggplant daubs, I’m in Mediterranean heaven! My partner is presented with a heartwarming dish of chicken cooked three ways, on a bed of corn puree with charred corn. The cornflake-crumbed chicken drummette, chicken and leek pie, and corn-fed chicken sing the praises and flavour of this humble bird. A delicious and innovative way of presenting an old favourite.

We take a break between courses and study the menu for our next dining experience. The team at Radius has created a clever menu featuring traditional favourites and adding a modern twist and drawing on influences of Australia’s cultural heritage. Their servings are generous, and flavours carefully refined.

Desserts arrive with a flourish. A beautifully presented vanilla bean panna cotta with poached rhubarb, crushed pistachios and strawberry sorbet is set in front of me. The panna cotta is rich and creamy, and simply sings of vanilla. Matched with the tartness of the rhubarb and lemon balm, it creates a harmonious balance. The crunch of pistachio and cleansing strawberry sorbet creates the perfect complement, the flavours and textures making this one an exciting dessert. My partner selects the Anzac Fruit Pie and enthuses over its comforting appearance. I’m sure the Diggers would appreciate this tribute.

The hearty, warm fruit stew covered by an Anzac biscuit crust and served with custard and vanilla bean ice-cream is simply delicious! This is what winter desserts are all about.

This restaurant is perfect for any occasion – or for a special occasion. If you haven’t ventured past the gates of the resort, make the effort and you’ll certainly be rewarded. Whether you’re a local, visitor or resort guest, everyone is welcome to enjoy the relaxed dining experience that is Radius at the RACV Inverloch Resort.

Radius Restaurant at RACV Resort Inverloch, 70 Cape PatersonInverloch Rd, Inverloch 03 5674 0000 www.racv.com.au

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There’s something about a bundt cake to me that is celebratory, old-fashioned and just really, really lovely. If you have never added ricotta to your cakes, your life is just about to change.

Nellie’s Ricotta, lemon and rosemary bundt cake Ingredients - 175 g butter, softened plus extra for greasing - 225 g caster sugar - 3 eggs - 250 g fresh ricotta - 3 lemons, zested and juiced - 300 g plain flour, sifted - 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon baking soda - 60 g ground almonds or almond meal - 1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary - Icing - 300 g icing sugar, sifted - Juice of 2 lemons

Method Grease the inside grooves of a 23 cm bundt cake tin using additional softened butter.

Pre-heat your oven to 180°C or 160°C fan forced.

Use a stand mixer or hand-held mixer to combine the butter and sugar. Beat for 2 minutes before adding the eggs, one at a time.

Add the ricotta and beat for 2–3 minutes.

Add the lemon zest and juice and mix again until incorporated.

Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda and almond meal. Fold through gently to combine. Fold through the rosemary last.

Bake in the oven for 45–50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before turning the cake out onto a wire rack.

To make the icing, combine the lemon juice and icing sugar and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Tips and Variations In lieu of icing, drizzle warm honey on top of your cooled cake and sprinkle with toasted flaked almonds.

To avoid tears, ensure you grease your bundt tin really well, especially in all the grooves, using a paper towel and softened butter.

If time is on my side, I often ice the cake in 2–3 batches and place it in the fridge between each turn.

No bundt tin? Pop it on the birthday list as they really are very special. However, a bundt batter baked in a non-bundt pan will require different baking times. Bundt batter halved and baked in two cake or loaf pans will require less time, so stay near the kitchen while the cake bakes and give it plenty of attention to ensure it cooks perfectly.

RECIPE KINDLY PROVIDED BY NELLIE KERRISON WWW.RELISHM A MA .CO M.AU OR PHONE 0 3 9 5 5 3 48 46

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HOLIDAY IN THE PARK. Family Friendly • 2 km from main township • 100 metres from beach • Powered & ensuite powered sites •

Large range of accommodation • Indoor heated pool • Games room • Recreation & conference room •

Toddler playground WIFI • Jumping cushion • Ball court • •

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

NISSAN PATROL BEYOND POWER PREMIUM COMFORT AND SERIOUS CAPABILITY

Dealer Name

1 Roughead Street, Leongatha VIC 3953

Dealer address goes here with city – Tel: 0123 2327 456 7890 T 5662 F 5662 2642

www.dealername.com.au E edney@dcsi.net.au Opening hours xam-xpm Monday to Friday, xam-xpm Saturday and xam-xpm Sunday

W www.edneysleongatha.com.au

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LMCT No 1500

it’s all about the house

design - Beaumont Concepts build - TS Constructions

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D e s ig n e rs of styl i s h , f u n ct i o nal an d sustai nab l e bu i l d i n g s .

W W W. D B D E S I G N . C O M . A U 03 5672 1144 47 GRAHAM STREET WONTHAGGI 3995, VICTORIA.

Wild about wood

We’re passionate about timber. If you’re looking for rare and unique timber or building to a budget, we can find what you need.

We stock: flooring, decking, screening, cladding, joinery timbers, slabs and posts in over 50 timber species.

South Gippsland’s agent for Radial Timbers.

We can also sand floors and decks and install flooring.

Delivery all areas. Showroom open Mon–Fri 9am–3pm, all other times by appointment.

www.tjstimber.com.au 5952 3232 24 The Concourse, Cowes

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DISPLAY HOME

2 CITADEL WAY, INVERLOCH.

Robin Bowman 0409 146 877

Experience the Aspire difference ...

COVERING BASS COAST, SOUTH AND EAST GIPPSLAND. CUSTOM BUILDING IN SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE. 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 enquiries@aspiredesignerhomes.com.au | www.aspiredesignerhomes.com.au | Head Office Ph: 9785 5100 coast 113

words maria reed photos warren reed and supplied

lifestyle review

MASTERFUL

Modhouse Amy Plant and Rich Vaughan are homeowners of the future. The young, upwardly mobile couple cited sustainability, environment and affordability as the key ingredients before deciding on their first home, a thoroughly hip Modhouse.

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Their compact, ultra-modern home is situated on a beautiful 5-acre property at Wattlebank. Surrounded by tall eucalypts and accompanied by the sound of native birdsong, this unique shipping container conversion home in black and timber sits effortlessly within its environment.

Weaving through abundant vegie beds to the front door, Amy and Rich welcome me into their home. I am immediately struck by the calm, light-filled interior that imbues a sense of serenity. The eco-plywood walls, ash floors and white joinery meld together to form an effortless Scandi-chic style. Amy smiles, “We love our life down here by the coast. It’s a bit like a modern commune. Mum and dad live over there, we work in the family company, and I truly don’t know how we’d manage with all the maintenance of the acreage and the dogs on our own.”

The couple met over four years ago while travelling overseas.

“We were in the same hostel and bonded over our shared interest in sustainable fashion. Rich worked for a small surf company in the UK and I had a background in nursing and retail.” When they decided to settle - a move to the surf coast at South Gippsland was a no brainer. “Rich loves to surf and I wanted to spend time with my family again – so it was a winwin decision.”

Amy works in marketing the family business Beach House Constructions, while partner Rich is studying building design

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and is a valued member of the BHC team. When the decision came to settle down for a time, they really didn’t have to settle for less. “We wanted something beautiful, sustainable and with a small footprint,” says Amy. They chose a Modhouse design, as it offered a stylish, affordable home that ticked all the boxes.

It was an added bonus that Modhouse is the sister company of Beach House Constructions, so it was all kept in the family.

Amy explains, “one of the reasons we chose Modhouse was that we wanted to build a place for where we are in our life right now. We have a beautiful home, plenty of space for two, and we’ve been able to keep our debt level low, so we can still maintain our lifestyle of travelling and going away on weekends. It was our conscious decision to live this way.”

The 50-square metre home consists of three 20ft shipping containers joined with floating links that have been professionally engineered and finished. Amy says, “people often have preconceived ideas about shipping container homes as there have been some pretty bad DIY versions over time, but it is really interesting watching people’s reactions to the quality and finish of our home. As much as we thought this was an interim stage in our lives, we’ve absolutely fallen in love with our home.”

And what’s not to love? With a 7.1-star energy rating, cross ventilation, bespoke kitchen and European laundry – a lot of thought that has gone into this clever home. “It’s everything >

The aesthetically unique, cost effective sustainable design and construct alternative.

0418 595 410 mark@modhouse.com.au modhouse.com.au @modhouseaustralia

I wanted; it’s easy to clean and integrates so well into the environment. The wood heater warms the entire home and we can vacuum the whole house from one point!” says Amy. Rich adds, “when you think of a container, (originally) it’s a place to store things.” With this in mind he created integrated storage in the built-in furniture, which only adds to the functionality and spaciousness of the home.

“It’s everything I wanted; it’s easy to clean and integrates well into the environment” “We often work from home and it’s just a pleasure to work in this environment. We can just nip to the kitchen to make a freshly brewed coffee and enjoy the space we work in.

Even though it’s a small home, it is thoughtfully designed so each space has a purpose. The meals area is just for us or entertaining friends, while the study nook in the centre separates work from leisure. You can escape to the bedroom to be away from everything, and there are little hidden nooks

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for reading – it really makes clever and thoughtful use of all its space.”

“It was really fun to be involved in the build,” says Amy. The beauty of this type of design is that it allows for so many interesting floor plans. “You can choose from 20 or 40ft container conversions, floating links, positioning for windows and doors, joinery, storage. The sky’s the limit! The only constraints are governed by what’s transportable . . . and your imagination.”

A new take on low impact living, this type of building would suit people who are after low debt and high sustainability.

Amy smiles, “I guess in this day and age peoples’ debt level is so high, just to pay off a home to live in. We feel incredibly lucky as we get to enjoy this space and our lifestyle, without having to work ourselves silly to pay it off.”

For more details on Modhouse professional shipping container conversion homes, please contact Mark Plant on 0418595410 www.modhhouse.com.au

tel: 03 5956 7415

28 boys home road, newhaven, phillip island info@southcoastkitchens.com.au

www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • WARDROBES • CREATIVE STORAGE • WARDROBE SLIDING DOORS • TOILET PARTITIONS • SHOP FIT OUTS • SOLID TIMBER JOINERY

NEW & RECYCLED FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES STOCKING QUALITY AUSTRALIAN BRANDS TESSA, MOLMIC, LOCALLY MADE FURNITURE AND MUCH MORE.

CHECK OUT OUR RANGE AT WWW.SOUTHERNBAZAAR.COM.AU 13 A’BECKETT STREET, INVERLOCH email sales@southernbazaar.com.au Wendy & Josh deKunder 0407 414 895

Follow us on Instagram

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T I LE S T H AT B R I N G E LEGANCE TO YOU R H OM E Visit elegancetiles.com.au for your nearest store.

Ascot Vale | Ballarat | Balwyn | Dandenong | Echuca | Geelong | Horsham | Lakes Entrance | Mansfield

Elegance Tiles Phillip Island 219b Settlement Road Cowes VIC 3922

Mitcham | Mornington | Moorabbin | Pakenham | Phillip Island | Swan Hill | Thomastown | Wangaratta

03-5952 5158 sales@phillipislandtiles.com.au www.phillipislandtiles.com.au

CRAFTED SPACES TO SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE. Bass Coast – Mornington Peninsula – Melbourne www.onsitedesign.com.au Call to book an appointment 0402 620 094

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Building Design & Architectural Drafting

onsite_design_au

onsitedesignau

The Bayview is a new design by the team at Langford Jones Homes.

Architectural, angular and absolutely uncompromising, this brand new four-bedroom, three-bathroom home comes with innovative design and family harmony in mind.

Bayview Display Home Now Open Open Saturday and Sunday 11am - 4pm 8 Kembla Road, Cowes (WhyteSands Estate) Wonthaggi Office: 03 5672 5680 | Head Office: 03 9579 2277 sales@ljhomes.com.au

langfordjoneshomes.com.au coast 121

RESORT LIVING EVERY DAY. RETIRE IN SOUTH GIPPSLAND. Experience the boutique retirement dream at Mountain View Leongatha

Be on a permanent holiday by joining our exclusive community.

Choice of 2 & 3 bedroom master built luxury homes with single or double garages.

A 24 hour emergency call service and secure caravan and boat storage for peace of mind.

ONLY 45 VILLAS ON COMPLETION

Contact us for further information.

Master built luxury homes.

Double Garages now available Community Centre completed and operational.

RESORT LIVING EVERY DAY

OPEN FOR INSPECTION from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

Ph: 1300 306 255 1 Dale Drive Leongatha VIC 3953 www.mountainviewleongatha.com.au coast 122

H

MASTER

B

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OF THE YEAR 2015

BESPOKE HOMES. QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP. PASSIONATE BUILDERS. We build beautiful homes. We build great relationships. And, we take all the hard work out of your hands so that you can enjoy the process. Talk to us about how our experienced team can create your beautiful new home, extension or renovation.

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

0419 878 402 | www.sjvuillerminmasterbuilders.com.au | svuillermin@bigpond.com

GET READY NOW TO BE SWIMMING THIS SUMMER.

Family owned and run. Victoria’s largest fibreglass swimming pool manufacturer.

Huge range of shapes and sizes. All with 25 years structural guarantee.

Servicing the Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, Bass Coast and South East Melbourne.

1300 WeDoPools | 0438 736 918 | nigel@conquestpools.com.au | www.conquestpools.com.au

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coast style

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME

I was seven when I helped pick the first vegies from my grandmother’s garden and no supermarket bought vegie has ever tasted as good.

With the cost of food set to soar there has never been a better time to start growing your own food. Some produce requires more space than others, but even in an apartment there’s ample room. Think trellis, string, walls and hanging baskets.

Blessed with an array of soil types and a mild climate, the options are endless (you can even grow bananas on Phillip Island).

Get started on your own plot: 1. Food Audit – The hardest, yet simplest part. Step back and record what you (and your family) eat in a week and therefore how much you will need to plant.

2. Planting Guide – Based on your Food Audit, work backwards and note what needs to be planted and when to harvest at the appropriate time; there’s lots of information online and in seed shops to help establish germination periods. For example, there is no point planting 50 carrot seeds day one because in 60 days you’ll have 50 carrots…

3. With the help of local resources, like Freedom Organics, establish what type of

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soil you have and how you can maintain it with organic nutrients to invite worm life and other micro-organisms.

4. Divide your area into five sections with (where possible) four seasonal rotations (20 beds) – this allows for long term soil rejuvenation between crops; planting legumes, brassicas, solanums (e.g. tomatoes, potatoes), cucurbits (e.g. pumpkins, cucumbers, melons) and alliums (e.g. onions, garlic) separately allows for this to occur.

5. The key to a constant supply is to plant little, but often – as per your Planting Guide.

Planting seeds every two weeks helps maintain a steady supply of vegetables without over-producing. An hour or two in the garden on the weekend is all you need to take care of your plants, and it’s a great way to unwind.

6. And if you’re good at maintaining your garden you can even store your root vegies in it over the winter months for longevity.

Make memories to call your own

It’s my Hotondo Home We have Display Homes and Sales Centres all around Metropolitan and Regional Victoria.

Visit hotondo.com.au for more information.

Call 1800 677 156 hotondo.com.au

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Set amongst beautiful landscaped gardens formerly occupied by the Banfields Motel and Cinema complex in Thompson Avenue Cowes, Banfields Aged Care is a new, architecturally-designed, state-of-the-art Extra Services residential aged care facility.

From the moment you arrive at Banfields Aged Care, you know you are entering an aged care facility that cherishes the quality of life.

To experience the Banfields Aged Care lifestyle firsthand, please call or visit our website.

ILAB

Banfields Aged CareCare Banfields Aged 192 Thompson Avenue CowesCowes VIC 3922 192 Thompson Avenue VIC 3922 03 5951 www.banfields.com.au (03) 2500 5951 2500 www.banfields.com.au

AUST R ALIA N

AG E D C AR E GROU P PTY LTD

“For anyone with dreams of splashing out on a pool for the coming summer, now is the best time to be making plans.�

Sanctuary Pools is a family owned business, specialising in the installation of concrete and fibreglass pools.

ASHLEY 0417 377 582 | ANDREW 0418 540 668 sales@sanctuarypools.com.au sanctuarypools.com.au

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

NEW & GENTLY USED QUALITY GOODS

Mind, Body & Spirit CD’s - Himalayan Salt Lamps - Black Ice Sunglasses - Erstwilder Brooches - Hats - Bags - Scarves Japanese Incense - Silver Jewellery - Oracle Cards - Body Jewellery - Bric a Brac - Books - Nana May’s Skincare - Gemstones: tumbled - Specimens & Jewellery - Bella Donna Harmony Balls - Clothing for Ladies, Men & Kids Venezia Murano Glass Millefiori Jewellery

Browsers Always Welcome

31 MAIN STREET, FOSTER PH: 5682 1381 WEEKDAYS 10AM–5PM SAT 9.30AM–4PM SUN 10AM–4PM OPEN 7 DAYS NOVEMBER – APRIL OPEN 6 DAYS CLOSED TUESDAYS MAY – OCTOBER LIMITED HOURS AUGUST - PHONE FIRST

www.mainstreetrevelations.com.au

Recycled metal sculptures, garden sculptures, junk sculptures, unique furniture, fun metal animals, and lots of other stuff.

LAURIE COLLINS

SCULPTURE GARDEN AND RED TREE GALLERY

New Exhibition Monthly H A N D C R A F T E D J E W E L L E RY seaglassjewellery@gmail.com www.seaglassjewellery.com.au @GCseaglassjewellery 0407 544 577

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Open 9am to 5pm every day 420 Main Jindivick Rd, Jindivick 5628 5224 lcollins@dcsi.net.au www.lauriecollins.com.au

Island Secure Storage

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

EXPERT ADVICE AND GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE. TIMBER

HARDWARE PAINTS HUGE RANGE OF WATER TANKS

TOOLS

EST. 1965

Cnr. Bass Highway & Glen Forbes Rd, Grantville 03 5678 8552 421 Princess Hwy, Officer vic 3809 03 5943 2371

www.islandstorage.com.au

IDEA DESIGN BUILD A three step conception to your dream living space. We help bring your ideas to life, with strong, structurally sound monuments of design and living space.

Jaylee Fitzpatrick 5674 2506 jaylee@jdesigngroup.com.au www.jdesigngroup.com.au

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

S E E W BOX LL

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Secure. Safe. Peace of Mind.

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

Discover the Terrace at Phillip Island RSL. BAR AND CASUAL DINING FOR OVER 18’S

Open M – F from 4pm until late and weekends from noon until late.

225 Thompson Ave, Cowes 5952 1004 info@pirsl.com.au www.phillipislandrsl.com.au

Real Food Self Sufficiency Super Store Eco Homewares & Organic Grocery Supplies Open 7 Days 127 Marine Parade, San Remo | 03 5603 3681 freedomorganicssanremo@gmail.com | www.freedomorganicssanremo.com

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

A Little Italy in Mornington.

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

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Manhattan specialises in traditional and modern Italian cuisine encompassing everything Mediterranean from fresh seafood, pizzas and pastas to specialty entrées, soups and desserts.

55 Barkly St, Mornington VIC 3931 Phone: (03) 5976 4867 www.manhattaninmornington.com.au

39 KEANES ROAD

FISH CREEK

Melaleuca Nursery INDIGENOUS & NATIVE PLANT FARM

‘Natives, because they’re beautiful’

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.

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

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: 50 Pearsalls Road, Inverloch Vic 3996 OPEN: Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5pm. Trade enquiries welcome.

CONTACT: Phone: 03 5674 1014 | info@gonativelandscapes.com

www.melaleucanursery.com

A TREASURE TROVE OF PRE-LOVED, RETRO, VINTAGE & MORE...

PHILLIP ISLAND Opens at 10 every Sunday in Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.

WHALE FESTIVAL 6 8th JULY 2018 Celebrate the annual whale migration!

Join in for a whole host of FREE and low cost activities.

For program details and more information about whale spotting Phillip Island visit: islandwhales.com.au facebook/instagram: IslandWhales

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

Stefani Hilltop Gallery

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

Sizzling hot Winter deals.

Seafood straight off the boat. Fresh local produce. Island grazed beef and lamb. Artisan breads, cakes and ice-creams all made in-house.

REPAIRS, TECHNICAL ADVICE, RESTORATIONS, AND DRIVER TRAINING ALSO AVAILABLE.

FOR BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES: CALL +61 407 611 203 OR EMAIL: CAMERON@TANKADVENTURES.COM.AU

17 THE ESPLANADE, COWES VIC. | PH (03) 5952 6226 WWW.HARRYSRESTAURANT.COM.AU

tankadventures.com.au 2349 Woorarra Rd, Wonyip. VICtoria Australia 3962

top 20 country pubs

in Victoria

We like it fresh and local. We like it relaxed and friendly. And we LOVE a hint of spice. Whether it’s a classic Black Angus porterhouse or our house specialty Cuban-style ribs, you’ll always get the freshest ingredients and a welcoming smile. No wonder we’ve been named one of the Top 20 Country pubs in Victoria.

MELBOURNE QUALITY COFFEE IN MORNINGTON’S ICONIC VINE COVERED CAFE. 3 Blake St, Mornington 03 5977 1177 hamishcoffeetraders@gmail.com Open Mon–Sat 6am–6pm, Sun 7am–5pm.

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Lounge Bar - 03 5678 7245

Ocean View Bistro- 03 5678 7011

Established restaurant in Cowes needs your experience and skill. Excellent location with high visibility to passing traffic and ample parking. Its situation and close proximity too Amaroo Holiday Complex ensures a constant stream of clientele.

For more information call Sharon Postlewhite (03) 5952 6633 Judith Wright Stockdale and Leggo

www.amaroopark.com

97 Church St, Cowes VIC 3922

Our Libraries have a huge range of programs and events to suit all ages and interests running throughout Winter, including school holidays.

Though free, most of our programs and events require you to book so please browse and book online at www.wgrlc.eventbrite.com.au Drouin | Foster | Inverloch | Korumburra | Leongatha Mirboo North | Neerim South | Phillip Island | Poowong Warragul | Wonthaggi | Northern Mobile | South Coast Mobile

03 5622 2849 facebook.com/wgrlc instagram.com/wgrlc www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au

As your local Member of Parliament I am keen to hear from the community and assist with any State Government matter.

Warm regards, Daniel Mulino a: 1/23 James Street, Pakenham, VIC 3810 p: 5940 5010 f: 5940 5011 e: daniel.mulino@parliament.vic.gov.au daniel.mulino.1 Authorised by D Mulino, 1/23 James Street, Pakenham. This material has been funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office & Communications budget.

SPRING INTO ACTION!

We’re already thinking about our next edition.

Here’s the simple truth: More people read Coast than any other local magazine. And readers love our great photos and stories. If you’re looking for quality and style, talk to us about the best ad package for you.

Talk to Robyn about your ad or your promotional campaign on 0432 273 107 or email ads@coastmagazine.net Edition 52 – Spring 2018 Ad booking deadline: 9 August On sale: 3 September 2018

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

- RESTAURANT FOR LEASE -

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

directory Artists & Galleries ArtSpace Wonthaggi Georgie Cunningham Sea Glass La Casa Sawtellis Gallery Laurie Collins Sculpture Garden & Red Tree Gallery Manyung Gallery Mosaics by the Bay Stefani Hilltop Gallery

89 128 81 128 75 81 131

Automotive Edney’s Leongatha Wonthaggi Toyota & Holden

110 8

Homewares & Furniture

Trades & Hardware

A Garden of Thoughts 97 Wonthaggi Betta Home Living 84 Main Street Revelations 128 Mookah Studios 34 Murray St Bazaar 94 Rigby Homemakers 93 Southern Bazaar 119 The Wonthaggi Market 92 Tyde 34

Bass Coast Garages 97 Capeview Building Products 94 Carpet Court Phillip Island 129 Coastal Refrigeration and Air Conditioning 127 Elegance Tiles 120 Island Secure Storage 129 Raneye Systems 97 South Coast Kitchens 119 TJ’s Timber 112 Van Steensels Timbers 129

Jewellery Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery

Builders & Designers

Professional Services

Andew Donohue Building Design 96 Aspire Designer Homes 113 Beach House Constructions 2 Beaumont Concepts 88 Coldon Homes 85 DB Design 112 Ecoliv 88 GJ Gardner Homes 127 Graeme Alexander Homes 140 Hotondo Homes 125 J Design Group 129 Langford Jones Homes 121 Modhouse 117 Onsite Design 120 S J Vuillermin Master Builders 123 TS Constructions 91

Mark Farmer Financial Solutions

Entertainment Island Whale Festival Kongwak Market Over the Top Events Turn the Page The Wonthaggi Market

131 131 36 135 92

Fashion Main Street Revelations 128 Mookah Studios 34 Sketa 21 Tyde 34

Gardens & Landscaping Conquest Pools Grace Landscapes Melaleuca Nursery Sanctuary Pools Wonthaggi Garden Supplies

123 23 131 126 98

Government & Schools Bass Coast Shire Council 33 Daniel Mulino 133 Newhaven College 32 West Gippsland CMA 103 West Gippsland Regional Library 133 Westernport Water 29

Hair, Health & Beauty About Bass Coast Hearing 92 Akers Eyewear 99 Organic Body Treats 61 YMCA 136

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5 87

Property & Accommodation Alex Scott Phillip Island Amaroo Park Anchor Belle Banfields Mountain View Leongatha Parklands Coastal Estate RACV Inverloch

139 133 110 126 122 97 49

Restaurants, Cafes & Food Angel’s Healthfood 104 Bass Strait Direct 104 BEANd 95 The Cape Kitchen 38 Coffee Traders 132 Connells Bakery 96 Freedom Organics 130 Harry’s on the Esplanade 132 IGA San Remo 77 Esplanade Hotel 65 Ionian Fish & Grill Bar 99 Kernot Food & Wine Store 62 Kilcunda General Store 130 Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel 132 La Casa Sawtellis 81 Manhattan in Mornington 130 Orange Box Cafe 99 Phillip Island RSL 130 RACV Inverloch 49 Relish Mama 109

Tourism, Travel & Recreation Island Whale Festival 131 Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 19 Phillip Island Nature Parks 30 Refuge Cove Cruises 27 South Gippsland Tank Adventure 132 State Coal Mine Wonthaggi 98 Vietnam Vets Museum 32 Wildlife Coast Cruises 27

Wineries Cannibal Creek Winery

104

Weddings & Events Abstract Hair 56 Wonthaggi Betta Home Living 69 The Cape Kitchen 38 Crazy Jane’s Airstream Buger Van 73 Di Kleinert - celebrant 52 Flowers of Phillip Island 59 Gusto Gelateria 64 Hair Bairs 56 Intimo 46 Instinctive Graphics 57 Island Bay Ranch 55 Jacky Webster - celebrant 58 Jamp Hair 54 Jenny Milkins - celebrant 45 Kernot Food & Wine Store 62 Lisa-Anne Prendergast - celebrant 47 LS Finance 58 Main Memories Videography 63 Manyung Gallery 75 Maria’s Bridal Studio 50 The Outer Space 62 Over The Top Events 36 Panthers Mensland 62 Passion 8 Photography 41 Peppers Moonah Links 43 Pony 71 RACV Inverloch 49 Shampoo Avenue 54 The Sheltered Glamping Co. 62 Sweet Life Cakes 53 Trulli Pizzeria 64 Villa Collina 51 We Chose Forever 52

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 Bunyip Newsagency 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 Cranbourne Newsagency Dalyston General Store Dromana Newsagency Drouin Newsagency East Brighton Newsagency Edithvale Newsagency Fish Creek BP Fish Creek General Store Flinders General Store Foster BP Foster Newsagency Gardenvale Newsagency Garfield Newsagency Grantville Newsagency Hampton East Newsagency Hampton Newsagency Hastings Newsagency Highett Newsagency Inverloch BP Inverloch Foodworks Karingal Hub Newsagency, Frankston Kilcunda General Store Koonwarra Store Koo Wee Rup Newsagency Korumburra BP Korumburra News Kunyung Newsagency, Mt Eliza Lang Lang Newsagency Leongatha BP Leongatha Newsagency Longwarry Newsagency Lonsdale News, Dandenong Meeniyan Newsagent Mentone Newsagency Middle Brighton News Mirboo North BP Mornington News Morwell Newsagency Mt Eliza Newsagency Mt Martha Newsagency Narre Warren Newsagency Narre Warren North News Neerim South Newsagency 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 Traralgon Newsagency Tyabb Newsagency Venus Bay Store Warragul Newsagent Warren Village Newagency, Mordialloc Wilsons Prom - Tidal River Store Wonthaggi BP Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi Ritchies IGA Yanakie Store

a good read ADULT FICTION BONO - THE AMAZING STORY OF A RESCUE CAT WHO INSPIRED A COMMUNITY

by Helen Brown International bestselling author Helen Brown is back with her latest feline frolics. Surviving a brush with cancer, Brown, happily married and with three grown children, decides something is missing.

Invited to visit New York, she seizes the day and accepts. She might never return.

There is a catch: would she foster a homeless cat during her stay? Visualising a dozy, sweet-natured snuggler called Mavis, she agrees. But the cat she meets in a Manhattan shelter is anything but dozy.

Instead, Bono, is wide-eyed, unpredictable and a bundle of nervous energy with a feisty attitude and punk haircut to boot.

Based on Brown’s enormously popular Huffington Post blog, Bono will make one laugh, cry and smile – an insightful story that explores life, love and revival tied up with a rock-star rescue cat with a big heart.

By the end you’ll want your own Bono.

TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ

by Heather Morris Lale Sokolov is a well-dressed charmer, a ladies’ man. He is also a Jew. On the first transport of men from Slovakia to Auschwitz in 1942, Lale immediately stands out. He is put to work in the privileged position of Tatowierer to mark his fellow prisoners — forever. One of them is a young woman, Gita, who steals his heart at first glance. This story, full of beauty and hope, is based on years of interviews Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist

REAL SWEET

Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov. It is heart-wrenching, illuminating, and unforgettable.

ADULT CRIME FICTION TELL ME WHY

by Sandi Wallace In Tell Me Why, Melbourne writer Georgie Harvey heads to Daylesford in central Victoria to look for a missing farmer. She uncovers links between the woman’s disappearance and her dangerous preoccupation with the unsolved mystery surrounding her husband. Maverick cop and solo dad John Franklin is working a case of a poison-pen writer who targets single mothers.

Georgie’s investigation stirs up long buried secrets. The country cop, city writer, retired farmer and poison-pen stalker all want answers.

What will they risk getting them? What will be the ultimate cost?

Follow up novel, Dead Again, sees Georgie commissioned to wildfire ravaged Bullock.

Thrown back into conflict with John and his investigations of vandalism and burglary, can she uncover the truth about a family man missing since the fires.

NON- FICTION TRACKER by Alexis Wright Winner of the 2018 Stella Prize, this is a collective memoir of Tracker Tilmouth, one of Aboriginal Australia’s most charismatic leaders, political thinkers and entrepreneurs. Brought up on a mission on Croker Island, Tracker returned home to transform Aboriginal politics. Working tirelessly for Aboriginal self-determination, he created opportunities for land use and economic development. A visionary and projector of ideas, he was renowned for his irreverent humour and anecdotes. Composed from interviews with Tracker himself, his family, friends and colleagues, Wright weaves the stories together as a tribute to storytelling in contemporary Aboriginal life and to the legacy of a remarkable man.

by The Australian Women’s Weekly This sumptuous cookbook is inspired by nature’s garden, from the gorgeous cover to the tempting recipes and beautiful photography, drawing ‘on-trend’ flavour cues from an A-Z of botanical ingredients. Think ripe, luscious fruits, surprising vegetables, nuts and natural flavours paired in delightful combinations. From overblown cakes to rambling pies, tarts and little jars of decadence – there’s joy in each and every creation. Food porn at its very best.

CHILDREN’S NON-FICTION STORIES FOR BOYS WHO DARE TO BE DIFFERENT

by Ben Brooks Prince charming, dragon slayer, mischievous prankster... these are the usual role-models boys encounter in the books they read. Stories for Boys offers an alternative - a compilation of 100 stories of famous and not-sofamous men from the past to present day, every single one of them a rule-breaker and innovator.

Entries include Frank Ocean, Salvador Dali, Rimbaud, Beethoven, Barack Obama, Stormzy, Ai Weiwei and Jesse Owens - heroes from all walks of life and from all over the world. A beautiful book packed with stories of adventure and wonderment; it will entertain, encourage and inspire.

TEEN FICTION THE TASTE OF BLUE LIGHT

by Lydia Ruffles What happened to me? Why can’t I remember? Weeks after blacking out and waking up in hospital, Lux still has no memory of what happened. She doesn’t know why her days are consumed by pain and her nights by terrifying dreams; why her parents won’t stop shouting and her friends stop talking when she walks into the room. All she knows is that the Lux she once was is gone - and that if she can’t uncover the truth, everything she loves will be taken away.

“A room without books is like a body without a soul.

40a Thompson Ave, Cowes P: 03 5952 1444 E: info@turnthepagebookshop.com.au W: turnthepagebookshop.com.au

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the right fit

YMCA PRYME MOVERS… “EVERYONE WHO RETIRES SHOULD DO MORE THAN JUST WALKING…” His friends joke he’s a ‘tosser’, but really, he’s a thrower. He throws the big five – javelin, shotput, discus, hammer and weight and has even walked away with gold!

Tom Goode has played sports his whole life and keeps fit, but it’s not a once-a-week chat session that motivates this gentleman, it’s participating in the Masters Games and the camaraderie he finds at the YMCA. “I spent a number of years in the army - camaraderie was the biggest motivator and it’s like that here… people are like-minded. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, there’s something for everyone.”

Take Tom’s favourite workout - Effective Movement Training (EMT). “You can do the same exercise as the person next to you, but with a lighter or heavier weight, whichever is right for you. It’s about trying new things and reviewing as you go.”

With a choice of 37 sessions, including EMT, Aqua Aerobics, Active Adults, Pilates, Body Balance and Gym across the two YMCA facilities (Wonthaggi and Phillip Island) and community programme at Inverloch, there is

a time and intensity suitable for everyone on the Pryme Movers membership. According to Tom, if he wasn’t fit he wouldn’t be able to participate in events like Tough Mudder, the Channel Challenge and Cowes Classic.

“My father competed in the 1952 Scottish Highland Games. I’d like to do that too, but I’ve got to get a kilt first!”

If throwing a caber isn’t enough, he’s looking to undertake the Somers to Cowes swim. “I walk for hours, patrol at Venus Bay Lifesaving Club and spend hours in the water with the grandkids. If I wasn’t fit, I wouldn’t be able to do any of that.” Rebecca from YMCA explains: “on top of the class and assisted gym sessions available, you also get up to five sessions with a trainer. The first to map out a health plan, the second to walk through your tailored programme and the other three to review as you need. Our trainers are also on hand during gym to make sure exercises are

correctly performed, and our client gets the most out of their sessions.”

Tom’s traded sitting at home to max out his endorphins and now sees muscle where there used to be only skin. “I dig the holes when I’m working at Vietnam Vets Museum.

My training means I have more strength”.

His hero is a woman in her 90’s. “At the Tassie Masters she wanted to break the walking world record. She did - by 17 seconds. She made a choice, she didn’t want to be in a nursing home, she’s as fit as a trout”. Tom’s also motivated by a man in his 80’s who has won a number of gold medals at the Masters.

“I want to maintain my fitness like that.”

His advice is simple – “you are where you want to be. If you want to be better - join the gym. It’s a simple choice, a personal choice and sometimes the first step is the biggest.”

Find your fit.

With the Y, everyone can be healthier, happier and connected to their community, and help those who are not.

WONTHAGGI 41 Wentworth Rd 5672 4194

COWES 10 –14 Church St 5952 2811

www.basscoast.ymca.org.au coast 136

young & inspired words as told to chloe kent photo warren reed

Few people could say they’re following what they wanted to do when they were 13, but that is exactly what Tara Storey is doing.

I grew up watching Heston’s Feasts – I loved the different eras of food and how he incorporated science into his cooking. Mr Spence (Newhaven College) was the reason I fell in love with science, he was enthusiastic, encouraging and made science fun.

I went home and started researching food and science. RMIT was the only one doing Food Science Technology back then, but I was hooked. It was the only preference I put on my university application!

College I decided I wanted to teach, though not necessarily in a classroom.

I’m in my third year now. At the end of my first year, I took a group of 14/15 year old students under my wing as part of an outreach programme. It was my first experience mentoring - the best four days of my life. Watching them light up, especially when some weren’t keen at the beginning; by day three they wouldn’t stop talking and asking questions – it was great.

There is a lack of diverse representation in the field at the moment and as part of my advocacy, I’m involved in creating an early stage science club at RMIT. My In2Science coordinator Claire, has helped guide me. She recommended a Masters in Science-Communications Outreach. I didn’t realise it was a thing – so that is now my trajectory.

The specialist course is sponsored by Shell and run at ANU with Questacon and Science Circus. You learn about exhibition design, communication and how to get kids and adults involved.

At the beginning of last year I started with In2Science – a peer mentoring programme for high schools. After a semester at Brunswick Secondary

I remember watching a YouTube video on Veritasium called, “Why I am not a scientist” and realised I felt the same – I love learning, engaging and talking, the labs aren’t my thing. The video validated what I want to do.

Last semester I did a digital regional placement. I love sharing my experiences and advocating in rural areas.

I was very humbled to be nominated for the Victorian Young Achievers Award. To have my outreach work recognized with other award nominees is inspiring. I’m passionate about getting young people to love science not just as a subject, but as a hobby; get them really engaged.

Most people think of food science and communication as separate fields, but there’s crossover. Food labels need to be more transparent - there’s a lot a false information around - and packaging needs to be environmentally friendly.

Last year I volunteered at the Island Whale Festival. I really like talking about the ocean and single use plastics. I have a subject this semester exploring alternatives to petroleum plastics. We made starch film (alternative to cling film), it’s got a lot of potential and is biodegradable. Degradable alone does not mean environmentally friendly - it means it breaks into tiny plastic pieces, so biodegradable substitutes are key.

I want people to enjoy science. I want to get them thinking.

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where am I?

As the grey of winter consumes the sky, the charm of colour is not lost… (on this red shed at least).

Coast photographer Warren Reed captured this stunning landscape on one of his drives.

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 Autumn 2018 edition – Where Am I was taken at Corner Inlet.

Printed using vegetable based inks on an elemental chlorine free paper. Sourced using sustainable forestry practices and manufactured using the ISO 14001 environmental management systems. Coast is printed in Australia under ISO 14001 Environmental Certifications. Coast magazine has chosen to print on FSC certified stock. FSC certification ensures traceability and verification of well managed forest timber, from mill to printer to you.

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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. All material contained in this publication is protected by Australian Copyright regulations. All rights reserved.

FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA

CLASSIC GOOD SERVICE Since 1886

Alex Scott and Staff have embraced our regional communities for more than 130 years and we’ve enjoyed seeing positive change in our region. We’re part of supporting and enhancing individual, family and community success. Winter is a time for staying close to home, a time of cold days and cosy nights nestled by an open fire, of bracing walks along our beautiful beaches. Of family, friends and footy. Winter provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on your best lifestyle options.

Call our expert, friendly team and see why Winter is such a good time to consider your next move.

Alex Scott and Staff – proudly building enduring relationships and contributing to the success of our region.

Melbourne (03) 9526 8611

Inverloch (03) 5674 1111

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CLASSIC GOOD SERVICE SINCE

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