Coast Magazine Spring 2009

magazine

coast Coastal living at its best!

Only $4.95

spring fashion coast style the life of brian meet the rockwiz king gardens & green living your ultimate guides

edition 16 Spring 2009

A magazine for living, relaxing & enjoying life by the coast

Seagrove is Phillip Island’s premier environmentally-sensitive estate – superbly located in Cowes just 700m from a sandy, safe swimming beach and walking distance from shops, restaurants and cafes.

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

Select from a range of premium home sites, including land with bay views and the new Kingfisher release overlooking Willoughby Park, priced from $139,900. Titles are available now so you can start building your dream home straight away.

coast

“sets a new benchmark for sustainable

residential development�

2007 Urban Development Institute of Australia Awards for Excellence

Freecall 1800 61 61 06

www.seagrove.com.au coast

for your special day... and an enchanted evening!

x

South Gippsland’s newest function centre opening in Spring 2009

coast

81 Archies Creek Road, Archies Creek For bookings or enquiries: 03 5678 7787

www.archiesonthecreek.com.au

Archies

Creek

on the

coast

coast

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Father’s Day activities Barbecues, Bloke’s and Big trucks – 6 September Wildflower Festival *Fun for all the family 19 September – 4 October Garden Grubs Kids Club Grubby’s first birthday celebration – 3 October Victorian Seniors Festival – 7 & 8 October The story of Gums New guided tour every Tuesday – includes billy tea and damper Relax in the new Boonerwurrung Cafe overlooking the Garden

Spring into activities at the Australian Garden ONLY 50 MINUTES FROM MELBOURNE!

Enquire about our events and activities programme

Open every day except Christmas Day, from 9am to 5pm.

www.australiangarden.com.au Phone: 5990 2200 coast

contents &features

regulars 12

Coast life

16

Arts & Events guide

18

2 (coast) people Gary & Jacqui Hamilton

20

features

The Thin Green Line of Conservation

26

What’s fresh for Spring

Surfer Profile Sandy Ryan

30

24

15 minutes of fame Jack Curphey

The Life of Brian

Meet the RocKwiz king

34

73

Feature Area Wonthaggi Celebrates 100 years

Artist Profile

Jan Bodaan at 81

38

119

Feature Area Sensational San Remo

Bill Lorimer Memories of Glen Forbes

44

130

Around town (&132) Are you in there? Check it out

FASHION FEATURE

49

134

Where to eat A quick handy guide on where to wine, dine and snack

Penguin Obsession Saving the species

90

137

Dine Out Beach Street Garden Gallery

GREEN FEATURE

95

142

My favourite recipe Watermark @ Silverwater Resort

145

Coast Property

147

Lifestyle Review A sheila’s castle

162

Advertiser Index

GARDENING FEATURE 101

Artist Profile 112 Sian Adnam’s far from a still life

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contemporary home solutions

Furniture

Homewares

Floor Coverings

interior - exterior - packages

vases - cushions - rugs

carpet - vinyl - timber

Bedding

Window Coverings

mattresses - beds - manchester

interior - exterior - motorisation

Flooring and blinds

Furniture and beds

155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

22-24 The Concourse, Cowes, Phillip Island 3922 Ph. 03-5952 1488 Fax. 03-5952 1348

Southcoast furnishings_v2.indd 1

14/8/09 7:55:27 AM

Open Lunch & Dinner 115 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922 (03) 59 522 655 Phillip Island, Vic, Australia Infused_v1.indd 1

5/8/09 3:21:15 PM

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coastlife Last Spring, we met Rick Coleman and his family at the Southern Cross Permaculture Institute near Leongatha. In January this year, Rick was badly injured whilst camping in Tasmania when a tree limb fell on him, during a freak storm.

His determination and family support has allowed him to make an incredible recovery and he is now walking unaided and he and wife Naomi are looking forward to their next Permaculture Design Course on 27 November – 12 December. Spaces are limited. www. southerncross permaculture.com.au

get

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cultured

prize winning sculpture

spring

Winner of the recent ‘Coast Magazine People’s Choice Award’ at Gippsland Sculpture Prize was the Copper Coat by Krowera artist Helen Bristol.

super sales service

go with your green heart

Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island and Fox Socks have merged. The sales and rental teams have combined forces to provide Phillip Island’s largest and most experienced real estate team. Both offices will remain providing dedicated sales and rental (permanent and holiday) offices in Cowes.

d Green Heart Organics is an organic wholefoods retailer and wholesaler in Inverloch. “I operate my business on a set of principles which value people and the environment before profit. Fair Trade certification helps me feel confident that I am buying products from an ethical source,” says Fiona.

materialgirl Local girl, Donna Rule, has opened a funky little retail outlet to sell her handmade wares. Her range of fashion, gifts and homewares is made of recycled and vintage fabrics. Her store is open weekends only at 11 Beach Cres, Newhaven.

Call 0428 141 939.

magicalmobiles

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Check out these little beauties by crafty creator Bryony Clarke. Handmade to order, these charming mobiles are a beautiful addition to any baby’s room. Made of stuffed felt, these mobiles can be made to any size, color and inclination. Bryony says: “I recently had an order from a DJ dad and soccer mad mum, so I made a mobile with records and soccer balls, which was a lot of fun!” If you would like to order a groovy mobile for yourself or a friend, email stuffed up mobiles at bryonylee78@hotmail. com or call Bryony on 0408 557 428.

a wonderous place where art + culture meet

Australia’s leading Sculpture Park and Gallery set in 16 hectares of serene bushland, lakes and landscaped gardens in Langwarrin, 4 kms east of Frankston on the Mornington Peninsula. Entry by gold coin donation.

ADDRESS : 390 McClelland Drive Langwarrin, Victoria 3910 Australia.

PHONE : +61 3 9789 1671 FAX : +61 3 9789 1610

OPENING HOURS : Tues to Sun : 10am - 5pm Closed on Mondays and some Public Holidays.

McCLELLAND GALLERY CAFE : Tues to Sun : 10am - 4:30pm Book for a meal or function on +61 3 9789 1671

info@mcclellandgallery.com www.mcclellandgallery.com

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L ACY JEWELLERY STUDIO

&

GALLERY

132 Whitelaw St Meeniyan VIC 3956 Phone 5664 0055 Please visit www.lacyjewellery.com.au coast 17

local living The team at Luduco Living takes ‘locally made’ to a new level. The majority of their sofas, modulars, chairs and dining furniture is all sourced and made locally . As owners Jeremy and Lisa Brook explained “All of our custombuilt products are made within a 10 - 30km radius of our business which not only supports local manufacturers but offers our customers greater flexibility in product size design and finish. It also means shorter lead times and a dramatically reduced carbon footprint!! Luduco Living Peninsula Lifestyle Centre 1128-1132 Nepean Hwy, Mornington Call 5973 4899.

sunday afternoon tea Spend a sunny Sunday afternoon enjoying delicately thin crepes cooked fresh at the buffet or choose from a selection of daily desserts, all served with tea or coffee and spectacular ocean views. Every Sunday from 3 - 4.30pm at RACV Resort Inverloch. www.racv.com.au/inverloch

nine is the number You’d better call now to secure a booking at the Coast’s newest restaurant, Vela9 in Inverloch. Felicity and Tony have combined their skills to create this stylish wine bar and restaurant. Their tempting, modern menu is proving popular, so book early! Vela Nine - 9 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Call 5674 1188.

silverwater in spring Silverwater Resort is getting Spring off to a great start with their new chef, William McLean, cooking up a storm in their restaurant, Watermark@ Silverwater. They also have some great hot deals, and fabulous cocktails served by their talented bar staff. Check out www.silverwaterresort.com.au coast 21

antiques, flowers and more

amazing makeovers

Looking to beautify your home this Spring?

Angelique’s Wonthaggi has a stunning range of antiques PLUS a floristry service to set off any room with beautiful blooms. Give them a visit at 10 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi or phone in your order on 5672 5119

fabulous fishy Spring is the time to get out and smell the fresh air, take in a scenic drive and visit some of the eclectic local galleries. Gecko Gallery and Ride the Wild Goat are two local galleries at Fish Creek not to be missed. To find out more call Gecko Gallery on 5683 2481 and Ride the Wild Goat 5683 2661

Looking for that perfect gift for a mum to be?

Why not create a keepsake for her that will be treasured for many years to come?

Make-up and body painter Ally de la Rosa will turn your preggie belly into a masterpiece.

(Ally pictured here is only wearing a sarong - the rest is body paint!)

Call Ally to order a gift voucher or book an appointment on 0402 117 280 - or find out more on www.makeupandbodyart.com

molly moo + tilly bear With the latest unique, urban and vintage gifts, clothes and accessories for boys and girls, Molly Moo + Tilly Bear brings a contemporary taste of classic Melbourne style to Cowes! This boutique store is definitely one to put on your list! Molly Moo + Tilly bear is located at 40b Thompson Avenue, Cowes. Call 5952 2259.

guilt-free treats San Remo Bakehouse offers a large range of diabetic, low fat and low sugar options. They can also cater for food intolerances such as wheat and lactose. San Remo Bakehouse 153 – 155 Marine Parade, San Remo. Call 5678 5862. coast 22

SOUTHERN BAZAAR Secondhand with Style

Retro – Antiques – Art Quality used furniture, recycled clothing, books & records

Quality brands including TESSA, PARKER, FLER, CHISWELL, FEATHERSTON, TH BROWN & MORE

We BUY quality secondhand goods Ph Wendy & John on

0409 23 44 82

Open everyday 10am to 5.00pm except Tuesdays Located in a massive warehouse at 42 Cashin St Inverloch (behind Mitre 10)

Check out our range at www.southernbazaar.com.au

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Leave the hustle and bustle

behind. Relax and enjoy great

coffee, all day breakfast and

delicious restaurant-style meals while browsing the gallery gift

shop and soon to be completed Japanese and Roman gardens.

Open 7 days from 9am – 5pm

162 Beach Street, Frankston T: 9783 7109 coast 25

coast hero

Sean Willmore, director of the Thin Green Line Foundation, doesn’t know where his next mortgage payment is coming from. But that’s nothing compared with not knowing if you and your family will survive another day.

‘Our next stop was the Congo, and on the very day we arrived, ranger Buzara was tortured and murdered by rebel poachers when his patrol was ambushed and outnumbered. Buzara and his colleagues put up a good fight but, when they ran out of bullets, they were overrun by the poachers, who outnumbered them seven to one.

We attended his burial the very next day, and paid tribute to him and respects to his family on behalf of the Thin Green Line Foundation. When we asked the rangers who else had been shot at in their work, every one of the 50 rangers raised their hand.’ - Excerpt from Sean’s diary.

In 2004, Sean Willmore’s life changed. “I sold the car, re-mortgaged the house, broke up with my fiancée (which wasn’t my fault!) and headed over to Chile to start filming a documentary with a donated camera,” says Sean. He had never made a film before.

How did this life change come about? “I went to an international rangers’ congress in 2003 and met rangers from around the world.

“They lifted their shirts and showed me bullet holes, and pulled back their hair and showed me machete wounds.” Sean was stunned to learn that his colleagues faced such dangers.

He decided to go overseas and visit his new friends “Then I thought maybe I’d make a film about them. I don’t know where it came from. I just wanted to tell their story – and I thought a film was the best way to do that. My naivety probably benefited me. It made no sense to anyone, including myself. There was something inside of me – it was so defined and clear. I just said: ‘Let’s do it’. Life’s for taking a few risks: I don’t want to be safe and secure and boring.”

Sean sent an email to rangers around the world saying: ’I’ve got this idea about telling your story - what do you reckon?’ “I got an overwhelmingly positive response.” He travelled to 27 countries in a year, visiting South America, Central America, the US, Canada, Europe and Africa. He came back with a lifetime of memories and 80 hours of footage.

“I got to play soccer with the Zulus in South Africa. I was charged by elephants, I hung from vines in the rainforest in Uganda. I was a few metres from mountain gorillas, up in helicopters, on foot with grizzly bears and rhinos and riding on horseback through the Andes. It was the ultimate big boys’ adventure - with a purpose.”

What he discovered was that rangers around the world put their lives on the line on a daily basis – to protect the environment and wildlife.

This is the ‘thin green line’ of conservation. Aside from the tragedy of the rangers’ deaths, their families are often left with nothing and destined for a life on the streets.

“The political and socio-economic situations in these areas are the big issue,” explains Sean. “In the Congo, there’s a war at the moment and there are rebel gangs - I’ve been amongst them. They are ruthless and want power and resources. The poor people have to survive, and some take on poaching. There are also professional poachers and rebel gangs in war-torn countries. Rangers are the ones on the frontline trying to protect wildlife and its habitat.”

What drives them? For many it’s a job, but for others it goes much further. “In the Congo, when a family of mountain gorillas was killed, the rangers had a proper burial service for them. There is a lot of pride. They

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are connected to the environment they work in. If it goes, they go.”

Without really knowing how to edit, Sean cut his own 18-minute clip from the hours of footage. Professional documentary-maker Jeremy Hogarth volunteered his time to assist, and Sean went to India, Asia and Arnhem Land to film the final sequences.

Sean was broke and needed to finish the film. “I was on the 7.30 Report: it went to 1.5 million people and really touched a nerve. Bryce Courtney sent a little cheque, adding ‘Here is a thin black line for your thin green line’!” Another benefactor gave him $25 000 which he used to “quit being a ranger and finish the film”. Finally complete, it premiered simultaneously in 330 locations around the world to an audience of over 15 000 people. The film is about the human story of saving the planet, and is now one of the best-selling documentaries in Australia>

words sally o’neill photos sean willmore & daryl gordon

thin green line coast 27

The original plan was to send money to the International Rangers’ Federation, but they weren’t set up to handle the funds. “We established the Thin Green Line Foundation through pro-bono work by a lawyer I met on a plane.” The foundation aims to support families of rangers that are killed. “We send them a message that if you are prepared to risk your life, we’ve got your back and your family.”

The funds raised enabled Sean to return to Africa and hand over the first payment to widows of rangers. “It connected the circle a bit.” So far, Sean has been able to support 17 widows in Uganda and South Africa by giving them the equivalent of a year’s salary. “They don’t say too much. They usually start crying and then say: ‘This is like a miracle’.

When you ask why, they say: ‘Because no-one has cared about us, we haven’t been given any money and we are on the street sometimes.

We had no food, no hope – we were in total darkness’.”

The foundation has also sent $US10 000 to the Congo, which was recently overrun by rebel soldiers, forcing the rangers and their families to flee to refugee camps. “They would be on death’s door without water and food if we were not able to support them through this time. Where I stayed in the Congo recently is now the rebel leader’s headquarters. Now I understand why we had two guards outside our room with AK47s. Several rangers I worked with six months ago are now dead, killed by rebels.”

Sean was born in Sale, then his family moved to Melbourne so his father, a Vietnam veteran, could be closer to medical care. He worked as a ranger around Victoria and now lives in Balnarring on the Mornington Peninsula running the foundation full-time. He is currently writing a book about his adventures as well as a series of children’s books. “There are so many problems in the world and if you try to solve them all, you go nuts. My philosophy is that you’ve got to be aware of the big jigsaw puzzle you are trying to create with everybody else in the world, and concentrate on your piece of the puzzle.”

Some of the most powerful footage in the film depicts one of the last remaining families of mountain gorillas happily playing in the forest.

“In Uganda I picked up the newspaper and read that footballer Wayne Rooney had just signed a contract in England for $40 million per year.

I thought: ‘John Macombo risks his life to save mountain gorillas, works 16 hours a day and can’t afford to buy a bicycle. He is in charge of half the world’s surviving mountain gorillas and can’t even afford a bike.’

We worked out that the cost of one soccer game would pay the entire ranger force for a year.”

Sean sums up his cause simply. “If you value wildlife and its conservation, then you’ve got to support the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect it.” C

So far, help from community and business supporters has been invaluable, but support is still urgently needed.

Currently, Sean has 1000 rangers’ families waiting for assistance. He can only afford to support 40 this year.

www.thingreenline.org.au Thin Green Line Festival Sean’s love of music led him to run the first Thin Green Line Festival in February this year,

featuring Xavier Rudd, Mia Dyson, Archie Roach, Shane Howard, Neil Murray and local bands in the stunning grounds of historic Coolart. It was a great success and Sean is planning to make it an annual event.

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Cape Schanck

Cobram

Inverloch

Gold Coast

Torquay Golf Club coast 29

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surfer profile

Sandy surfing’s nice guy

words sally o’neill photos warren reed & mick burnside

Sandy Ryan is the nice guy of the surfing scene. But don’t be misled: nice doesn’t necessarily mean that he isn’t competitive and isn’t out there to win– he’ll just do it with a smile!

Sandy Ryan grew up on Phillip Island and hasn’t really strayed far. Son of surfing legend, Matt Ryan, he had no choice but to get wet from an early age. “When I was about four, I started boogie-boarding . I’d go out at Berry’s Beach with just a little wetsuit vest and no bottoms on! I remember enjoying catching waves, just flying around them.”

Sandy graduated to stand-up surfing at the ripe old age of six. “It was just a standard short board. Dad was with me in a little shore break that was dumping on the beach. In hindsight it wasn’t the best wave. I had a few pretty bad wipe-outs and ended up rolling up the beach with the leash around my neck and just freaked.” So he was back on the boogie board for a while. “This was good because it gave me experience in the ocean and reading the waves to pick the line up. I just went wherever Dad did, to all the good breaks.”

When he finally started stand-up for real, Sandy was hooked. “It was just fantastic, really addictive. Now, if I have a few days when I don’t surf, I just feel itchy and have to go for a surf or into the ocean in some way.”

It was inevitable that he start competing. “I just went out and caught as many waves as I could. I came last in my heat! I had about 40 more waves than anyone else; the other guys were just waiting for their three good ones. These days, I am a lot more patient, and wait for the better waves.” These days he also wins.

After competing only on a short board, he tried a few comps on a long board – just for fun. “A long board is big and slow. There’s not a rush to move all over the waves. You can just stand there and enjoy the ride.

It’s a nice, flowing, slow-carving style. You can even run up and down the board. It’s like you are in slow mo. Instead of being quick and doing a snap, you can get your timing sorted and enjoy it.”

Sandy balances the “slow mo” of long-board surfing with some bigwave action. “Big waves are an adrenalin rush – scary at times, but you feel very satisfied afterwards. The biggest waves I’ve surfed were in Fiji.

We towed into them: they were way too large to paddle into. It was ok because I’ve been surfing long enough to know how to put myself in a safe situation.

Today Sandy works with his dad Matt at Island Surfboards and teaches others to surf. “Dad tells me about the early days of surfing on Phillip Island. It was very experimental – there was no guidebook on where the breaks were and when to surf them. Dad and his mates would go and surf breaks that hadn’t really been surfed before. There are still breaks out there to discover. Maybe not on Phillip Island, but around our coast.”

Sandy would still “love to be surfing when I’m 75” and my guess is that it will still be on Phillip Island.

The Island is in the 26 -year-old’s blood. “I can’t see myself moving.

Along with dad, Local guys Glyndon Ringrose, Simon Mcshane and Adrian Maier have had a really big influence on me. Dave Fincher is my idol. I always call him up to have a surf . Despite his age, he’s like a grommet. He’s not afraid to come out when the waves are big and gnarly when guys a quarter his age are scared.”

His favourite island wave is Express. “It’s a good, hollow wave. I surf out there all the time and so do a lot of my friends. It’s a social get-together in a way. We just hang out and talk between sets and then a wave comes and you take off and potentially get one of the best waves of your life. It’s special.” >

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surfer profile

And his signature move? “Maybe a wipeout,” he says. “I push myself and sometimes it works and I get a really good ride and other times it’s [laughs] not so successful. I guess you have to have wipeouts: it’s all trial and error.” C Sandy & his dad Matt Ryan

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The perfect beachside getaway Self contained style accommodation offering the luxury of a personal 2-person spa in the bathroom, private balconies or patio with foreshore and bay views, split system heating/air conditioning and luxury guest amenities. Two styles of apartments offer different features, giving you a choice of which will best suit your requirements.

3 The Esplanade, Cowes, Vic. 3922 Ph: 03 5952 1351 E: info@thewaves.com.au

www.thewaves.com.au

The Waves.indd 1

Experience

4/8/09 2:34:44 PM

Spring Carnival

in the Country

Marquee packages | Live Music Giant Screens | Fashions on the Field Picnic on the lawns

Pakenham Football Club Caulfield Guineas Day

Pakenham Gazette Oaks Day

Saturday 10th October

Thursday 5th November

www.pakracing.com.au For bookings and inquiries call 5941 1207 61 racecourse road Pakenham, 3810 Pakenham Racing.indd 1

5/8/09 4:03:49 PM

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coast character

Known to many as Raymond J Bartholomeuz, Brian Nankervis talks to Coast about poetry, music, donuts and getting locked in the car by his dad…

Brian Nankervis is usually the one asking the questions. This time it’s my turn. His well known, character-filled face and resonant voice beam out across Australia each week on the music trivia show, RocKwiz.

Yet, despite his hectic schedule, there’s nothing he likes more than spending time on the coast.

Teaching was Brian’s chosen profession, and after some time in the classroom, he took leave and worked as a waiter at Melbourne’s Last Laugh Comedy Club. A year in the comedy scene and he was hooked.

“Being a teacher had given me experience in performing in front of an unruly group and telling a few jokes to keep them interested,” he recalls.

He was drawn back to the club to play Dr Ray Good in the hospital satire ‘Let the Blood Run Free’. “I kept waiting for them to say: ‘Thanks Brian, we’ll get a real actor now,’ but they didn’t.” That was 25 years ago.

While Dr Good gained notoriety on stage and TV, it seems it was Brian’s character Raymond J Bartholomeuz that he is most remembered for. This engaging, comic fellow was a serious poet well and truly in touch with his sensitive side and prone to drawing out his verse with meaningful pauses punctuated by dramatic facial expressions.

Brian’s love of the coast shone through in Raymond J’s work. “Actually, the first poem I did on Hey Hey It’s Saturday ended with the line ‘Tomorrow I go to Phillip Island’. Today people still joke with me about it,” recalls Brian, who now owns a holiday house on the island. I can’t resist a peek on U-Tube and in this now vintage clip, Raymond’s heart-felt introduction to the poem titled ‘Days By The Ocean’ goes something like this: “I wrote it [this poem] down at Woolamai. My father took us down there to a Rotary Conference and we all got locked in the car.”

Oh, happy days.

There were some more positive experiences to follow. “When I was studying at Burwood Teachers’ College, I joined a surfing club. Every Wednesday at 1pm, we’d drive down the coast – often to Phillip Island.

I’d never had much to do with it before then. The club disbanded but a big mob of us used to still go down there for a surf and swim.

I remember camping at Forrest Caves, driving the back roads around Summerlands and seeing the penguins. I actually wrote a song ‘Penguin Blues’ – but it never really took off,” he laments.

His affair with the coast continued throughout his life, with Brian enjoying the respite it gave him from the world of comedy. “When I spent time on the coast, I always left Raymond J behind and was Brian.”

Along with comedy, performing and surfing, music is his passion. “I’ve been a music fan ever since my cousins put me onto the Rolling Stones in the mid-sixties,” he explains. “I have done music shows on 3RRR and use music with my comedy.”

Today it’s rock n roll that occupies his days. “There were three of us that nutted out RocKwiz. We call it ‘the little show that could’,” he says humbly. Producing this “little show” takes a lot of phone-calling, emailing and “approaching those people who have bulging little red books. It’s connections and persistence”. Filmed in the Gershwin Room at St Kilda’s legendary Esplanade Hotel, it’s very Melbourne. “To me it’s a show that couldn’t really happen anywhere else – it’s a product of the Melbourne scene.”

When I ask for some Kwiz highlights, he’s stumped. “There are memorable moments every night. One of my favourite shows was Martha Wainwright and Dan Kelly - it’s always exciting when you>

the life of brian words sally o’neill photos supplied by Brian Nankervis

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PHILLIP ISLAND’S ALL WEATHER ATTRACTION! Get shrunk in the Shrinking Room Get lost in the Maze.

Confused in the Gravity Room Dropped down the Look Out! Slide

Open 7 days from 10am

Please present this ad to receive a 10% discount on any admission ticket.

Valid until December 31, 2009 COAST

Phillip Island’s Premier Ice Creamery!

Pure Indulgence!

• Gelato all made on our premises • Take Home Packs for a special dessert • Over 100 different lollies including gluten free and sugar free • Gelato Cakes custom made for any occasion

• Lunch served daily

• Great coffee and desserts • Gift Boxes, Truffles, Nougat, Chocolate Shots • Wireless Internet available • Specialised cakes for special occasions • Take Home Desserts

1805 Phillip Island Road, Cowes p. 5952 2283 f. 5952 2227 www.amazenthings.com.au

email: maze@amazenthings.com.au

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artist profile

Bodaan words kate lindsay photos warren reed

When I was told I was going to be interviewing an 81-year-old artist who was in the process of preparing for another exhibition, I wasn’t really sure where the experience would take me. But I soon discovered a new friend, and was given a lesson on life and love by Jan Bodaan.

Jan excitedly greets me at her front gate, and although we have only spoken briefly on the phone, she embraces me as though we have known each other for years. As we walk through her front door, Jan describes the painting adorning the entrance, a portrait of her mother.

“I liken the way people paint to the way people make music. It could be pop, rock ‘n roll or classical; I consider myself a classical painter. I’m a classical musician of vision rather than sound.”

We sit in her lounge room in Ventnor overlooking Westernport Bay. As we admire the view, she explains how she fell in love with Phillip Island and its wonderful coast. “I grew up in Melbourne, and my parents would take us to the Emerald Country Club or Torquay for holidays, but I wanted to have time on my own. I like my own company. I wanted to be somewhere unexplored where I could roam free.

It was just after the war in 1946. I had finished school and I came to Phillip Island and discovered Summerland Estate near where the Penguin Parade is now. That’s where I fell in love with the island. It was like Wuthering Heights, with nothing around it. I could run free. I would spend days wearing just a belt and a fishing knife, spending time all by myself. There was a wild sense of freedom.

I knew then that I wanted to live here permanently, yet it wasn’t until 1983 that I came to live here full-time. It only took me five or six minutes to know that this was the right house for me. The estate agent said, ‘But you haven’t seen the bedrooms yet’, and I told her ‘It doesn’t matter - you only sleep in them!’”

A strong constant in Jan’s life has been her love of drawing and painting. “I began drawing from the age of three. I had a good singing voice from a young age, and it was obvious that I was either going to be a singer or an artist. I would draw at every opportunity, but only sing when I was happy. I would draw whether happy or sad.”

From the age of 17, Jan attended the National Gallery School. Fresh from school, and the youngest student, it all came as a revelation to her.

Most of the students were aged from 40 to 60, and some were older.

That same year, the war ended, and the Gallery School was flooded with ex-servicemen on rehabilitation schemes. They included many who were to become future icons in Australian Art. “After the four-year course at the Gallery School, I joined the unskilled labour force>

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and was exposed to people of varied backgrounds. It was a lesson in outgrowing one’s own class limitations,” says Jan. Jan began to travel in her 20s, and was to have some amazing adventures - “some exotic and some terrifying”. Travel “shaped my life and future, and made me face my own limitations. From this, I matured and found strength as an artist and a person”.

Jan admits that she does not consider herself religious, but has a strong spiritual sense which is where she gains inspiration. “I’ve never been out there to make money or make a name for myself. I don’t consider myself competitive. Art is a spiritual experience: there is no room for competition. It’s a gift of the spirit. You don’t need to read or write or go to university to become an artist. Some people just have the talent. I don’t see myself as a painter, rather as a spiritual philosopher who uses art as a form of expression. It was the gift I was given.

My mother was an extraordinary woman who taught us that we could believe and think what we liked. She said our mental life was our own.

As long as we were courteous, respectful and kind to other people, the rest was up to us. She was an amazing woman with a strong moral logic. It was this that got me interested in studying political systems and comparative religions. I had a profound spiritual experience when my children were little, and it made me so much more aware. I realised that when I see something I love, I see it through other people. There is a state of love and a state of fear in all of us. Our negative energy is fear, while our positive energy comes through as love. Love is an amazing energy and force of its own. I was driven to live and to love fully. My spiritual enlightenment hasn’t made me into a saint, but it has taught me a lot. If you love truly in life you will always do the right thing.”

Jan believes her upcoming exhibition, featuring large oil paintings, will be her “swan song”. She will coexhibit with Luc Prisco at Mingara Gallery on Phillip Island from10 October – 20 November. www.mingaragallery.com.au C

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That’s where I fell in love with the island. It was like Wuthering Heights, with nothing around it. I could run free. I would spend days wearing just a belt and a fishing knife, spending time all by myself. There was a wild sense of freedom.

MINGARA GALLERY Affordable Art, Giftware, Designer Jewellery

Cnr Thompson Avenue & Ventnor Road Cowes Victoria 3922 ph 03 5952 3722 fax 03 5952 1507

Open 10am – 5.30pm daily (closed Wednesday) for other times please phone for an appointment

Mingara_v4.indd 1

Photography

noelle@mingaragallery.com.au www.mingaragallery.com.au 17/8/09 12:33:55 PM

Jewellery

222 Esplanade Surf Beach 222 Contemporary Gallery_v2.indd1 1

Pottery

Cushions

brenflor2@bigpond.com

Hours 11am - 4pm Thursday to Monday

mobile: 0413311824

www.222gallery.com.au 17/8/09 10:48:51 AM

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Not many people know it, but in his day, Bill Lorimer was known as the eel-charmer of his hometown, Glen Forbes. That’s just one story about the area’s longest-lived resident. At 85, he’s seen a lot of changes - and trains rolling past his door…

words sally o’neill photos warren reed & ross holmberg Bill’s bright blue eyes shine as he speaks about life from the kitchen table in his neat-as-a-pin house.

Bill was born in Foster Hospital in 1924. “Mum had all her babies in Foster and had to catch the rattly old train to get there, too,” he recalls.

She caught the train to have you? “Yes: she had to catch the train from Glen Forbes to Nyora then to Foster. And it was the same to come home. It was amazing,” he chuckles.

After the train ride home, trouble struck. “My sister had just started school down in the Glen Forbes hall. Whooping cough broke out and there were no telephones to warn anyone. I was six weeks old and got whooping cough. There were no immunisations, nothing at all. They thought I would never survive, but I did. My mother couldn’t feed me, and Mrs Yann, who had a big family and lived in the store, said to eat the strippings of the milk – this is the last of the cow’s milk, so it was very rich. People say that’s what pulled me through,” says Bill.

Once recovered, he settled into an idyllic country childhood. “We took life easy and had a great time on the farm. I can remember just running around with my brothers and sisters and chasing them and squealing and having fun. When my eldest sister was about ten or eleven, I remember thinking: ‘Gee, she’s old. I’ll never be that old.’ And here I am!

That’s how it works.”

Bill went to Glen Forbes Primary School on the Almurta Road. “There were about 25-30 students and we all used to walk to school. Most of the children didn’t have boots or anything. The older boys from next door had tough feet and they’d just run down the railway line. I used to wear rubber boots. There was only one teacher and the school went from Grade 1 through to Grade 8 which was up to merit certificate standard.”

School days went smoothly until polio hit in 1937. “We had two cases here and the school was closed. Me and another lad were the only ones left in Grade 8. Our teacher lived in Wonthaggi and came out on the passenger train to the school where Eddie and I would be

waiting. He would give us tuition and catch the 11am passenger train back to Wonthaggi. He did this two or three days a week during the polio outbreak.” Despite being “not very brilliant at school: I was always gazing out the window and dreaming of being out of there”, Bill made it through to achieve his merit certificate. “The first thing I did was to collect a quid off my father. He gave all the children 10 shillings (a dollar today) when they finished, and thought he’d never have to pay me!”

Trains rattling past the house were a part of life. “The railway line was just down there”, he says, pointing out the window. “We used to have to watch for trains when we went out into the paddock. When the big coal trains went out from Wonthaggi, we’d feel the thump in the house – it was a very busy line!” he recalls. “Freight trains, coal trains, passenger trains, goods trains running day and night. You got used to it and just slept through. Personally I was happy that the railway stopped. It was always a worry if cattle got on the line.”

Originally known as ‘Milford’, Glen Forbes was a bustling town in its heyday. Timber mills operated in the Bass hills and the timber used to come down by trolley-tram and be taken to Queensferry or Grantville and shipped out. “I can’t remember the trams operating, but I know where the tracks are,” says Bill. “There were more trees on the hills, and an awful lot of blackberries and bracken ferns. When I was very young, a farmer offered me a job to cut bracken. The ferns were that tall, I never took a coat - if it rained, I’d just crawl into the bracken!”

World War Two changed the peaceful family life. Bill volunteered for the Air Force when he was 18 – “either that or get conscripted into the army”. Luckily, he never had to leave Australia and was able to come back to the farm on leave. “Not many people know what really happened here during the war. In January 1942, I was going to work and I heard a putt-putt motor down on the railway line. Flying along, less than 100 feet off the ground, was a little boat-shaped plane. It just followed the railway the line and when it got to Woolamai, it went up over the hill and out to sea. Now that was a Japanese plane or I’m a monkey’s uncle.” >

memories of glen forbes

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Bill returned to Glen Forbes after the war with the intention of working on the family farm. “Dad said: ‘Farming is nothing but slavery: don’t touch it.’ By then I had a really nice girlfriend. I couldn’t go back to the farm so I went to work at Fisherman’s Bend from 1947 until 1961 doing a lot of work under tight security, and we couldn’t talk about it. After my father died, Mum said I could have first choice on the farm. I said: ‘Right!’”

“When my wife Joan and I moved back, it had changed a lot – there was electricity, there were young ones and we were very active in the community. It was a wonderful group of people. They were all locally motivated. Everyone had a car, petrol was fairly cheap, and the kids were all involved in something - Brownies, Cubs, sport. We had a manual telephone exchange. You would ring and say ‘Ray, put me on to the Knoxes and he’d say; ‘Oh, they’ve gone to Dandenong’.

Everybody knew what was going on in the district. There was community spirit. Today, people keep to themselves. But new families are coming in and getting involved, so the spirit is coming back again.”

Back to the eel-charming. When he was young, Bill and his sister each won a Box Brownie camera when they wrote a story for ‘The Argus’ newspaper – his was about charming the eels that lived in the pond which filled when the creek used to spill out onto the flats. “I would go to the pond and call out, and the eel would hear my voice and rise up looking for food,” explains Bill. The creek has since been relocated - the eel and pond long gone... C

Dad said: ‘Farming is nothing but slavery: don’t touch it.’

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Artisan and seller of Traditional & contemporary Jewellery LEONGATHA STUDIO & SHOWROOM 3 Lyon Street, Leongatha Tel. (03) 5662 3142 www.denisahawkins.com.au denisa10@bigpond.com

KOONWARRA STUDIO & GALLERY 11 Swan Road, Koonwarra Village Tel. (03) 5664 2282 www.denisahawkins.com.au denisa10@bigpond.com

Denis Hawkins_v4.indd 1

12/8/09 12:20:53 PM

Jewellery

Studio 41 creates unique hand crafted jewellery.

Principal designer and jeweller Elayne Vears has a wealth of knowledge with 30 years of experience.

Whatever you desire platinum, yellow, white or rose gold, Studio 41 can accommodate your requirements.

We have an extensive range of diamonds and precious stones covering all types of cuts.

Unworn jewellery items can be repaired or remodelled to become rejuvenated and wearable once again.

You will be amazed with the results!

We welcome all enquiries and provide complimentary private consultations. Enjoying 11 years situated at 41 Main Street Mornington, Studio 41 invites you to come and enjoy a unique experience.

41 Main Street, Mornington, Vic P: +61 3 5977 0080

DESIGN your desires

CREATE your dreams

REJUVENATE your memories

NEW WEBSITE www.studio41.com.au

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SKETA

AUSTRALIA

Australian designed and made – Limited quantites for the individual look – Quality accessories Mornington 71 Main Street T 5976 3311 Sorrento 42 Ocean Beach Rd T 5984 0927

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and stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa

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FLIRTING WITH

FASHION Check out the very best in Spring fashion on the coast.

Shot on location at San Remo’s sensational Silverwater Resort www.silverwaterresort.com.au

stockists

Photography Warren Reed Photographic Assistant Ross Holmberg Model Nicola Clayton Hair and Make Up Lisa Kane Styling Lisa Kane Production Annette Waters,

1 Soul 141 Graham St, Wonthaggi Call 5672 5338 Chris Yates Shop 60, Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Call 9787 8122 Deborucci’s Shop 1, 23-27 Thompson Ave, Cowes, Call 5952 3811.

Euro Collections 72-74 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Call 9775 4022. Also Mornington, Armadale & Bendigo Haze 17B A’Beckett St, Inverloch, Call 5674 1133 Hunter 76a Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Call 9787 8227 Island Style 34 Thompson Ave, Cowes, Call 5952 1186 Jean Depot 41-43 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi Call 56 72 3656 & 5 Smith St Plaza, Compass Arcade, Leongatha Call 5662 3023 Karmella 46 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi Call 5672 5775 Kudos 137 Marine Pde, San Remo, Call 5678 5944 La Bella 140 Graham St, Wonthaggi Call 5672 4812 Lilly Belle Shoes & Accessories 6 Blake St, Mornington, Call 5976 2125 Lime Fusion Plaza Arcade, Wonthaggi, Call 5672 2016 Lulu 112a Graham St, Wonthaggi, Call 5672 3210 & 14 McCartin St, Leongatha, Call 5662 2272 Molly Moo + Tilly Bear Shop 406 Thompson Ave, Cowes Call 5952 2259 www.mollymooandtillybear.com.au Sketa 71 Main St, Mornington Call 5976 3311 & 42 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento Call 5984 0927.

Stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa.

So!Me 57 Bair St, Leongatha, Call 5662 3103 Southern Bazaar 42 Cashin St, Inverloch, Call 0409 234 482 Wrenches 145-147 Graham St, Wonthaggi, Call 5672 1137 Yoko 12 Blake St Mornington Call 5976 3066

Hannah Burrell & Sally O’Neill Paintings Michael Whitehead www.whiteheadart.com.au coast 49

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Metalicus Tank Dress $75 under Mimosa Silk Dress both from Hunter Clothing $180 Necklace: Samantha Wills, Bacali from Lilly Belle $139.95 Ring: Samantha Wills, High Style from Lilly Belle $59.95

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Carlotta Grey Jacket from Chris Yates $220 Carlotta Dress from Chris Yates $215 Necklace Pepr Leather and Steel choker from La Bella $46.90 Troll ring from Kudos, San Remo

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Gerry Shaw ‘Tequila Dress’ from Deboruccis POA Jewellery from Deborucci’s: Totland Headband $75 Totland Bracelet $99 Earns Chair and Coffee Table from Southern Bazaar Chamapagne and artwork - Silverwater Resort POA Paintings - Michael Whitehead www.whiteheadart.com.au

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Dress Metalicus Curtsy Bow Berry $199 Jacket Metalicus Long Loverly $249 Necklaces and belt all from Lulu Shoes Diana Ferrari Candace Black from Wrenches $129.95 Billabong luggage from Jean Depot Couch - Silverwater Resort

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Dress burnout pure silk print, fully lined from Sketa Necklace Rudy diamante Necklace from Deborucci’s $159

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Dress Jaffa Multi Halter $295.95 Bag Red Rosebud Satin $55 Earrings Gold Diamente Drops POA Bracelet Arand Coral $45 all from Yoko Paintings - Michael Whitehead www.whiteheadart.com.au

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Threadz Clarity Jacket $129.95 and Dressed by Threadz Ponti Pant $79.95 from So!Me Bracelets and Hammered drop Pewter/Silver earings from So!Me Shoes Sunny Day - Black/Coconut - Ruffle Peeptoe from Lilly Belle $179.95 Belt - Model’s Own Necklace from Lime Fusion $29.92 Chair, table and retro phone from Southern Bazaar POA Lamp - Silverwater Resort

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Deborucci’s

GERRY SHAW

TRUE RELIGION

ANNA HOFFMAN

SABATINI

LOUNGE

Shop 1, 23-27 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922

Tel/Fax: 5952 3811

Email: deboruccis@bigpond.com Deborucci's_v1.indd 1

www.deboruccis.com.au 17/8/09 8:42:17 AM

Island Style Tigerlily | Baku | Metalicus | Marco Polo 34 Thompson Avenue Cowes 3922 s e a f o l l y. c o m Island Style_v4.indd coast 58

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T 5952 1186 20/8/09 5:55:11 PM

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Fate Cami Top $39 Sass Sequin Vest $59.90 Fate Sequin Leggings $59 Fun Necklace $29.95 and Fun Ring $19.95 all from Island Style Featherstone contour black chair from Southern Bazaar POA

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BUFFALO

METALICUS

14/8/09 3:42:27 PM

SASS

M.E.L

FATE

WISH

MINKPINK

T 03 5672 3210

T 03 5662 2272

112a Graham Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995

14 McCartin Street Leongatha Vic 3953

Lulu_v4.indd coast 60

1

Plaza Arcade, Graham St, Wonthaggi

Ph: 5672 2016 Lime Fusion_v1.indd 1

Fashion – Accessories – Swimwear | Jets | 2 Chillies

•Lime Fusion•

MESOP

GRAB DENIM

STAPLE

LADAKH

lulu 17/8/09 9:16:19 AM

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One piece, hand-crocheted swimsuit

by Dell at 1Soul POA Adorn Leather Cuff, Ring and Bracelet from Lime Fusion Shoes Bon Bons Cable Taupe Burnish from Wrenches $109.95

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Clothing, shoes and accessories for those

mens and womens streetwear

17/8/09 8:39:01 AM

goorin goorinbros bros

goorin bros

pepe pepe

pepe

metalicus metalicus

metalicus

Haze_v2.indd 1

17B A’Beckett St, Inverloch Ph: 5674 1133

ben bensherman sherman

ben sherman

elwood elwood

elwood

with style.

76a Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza 3930 Ph. 03 9787 8227 Hunter_v1.indd coast 62

1

21/8/09 9:33:23 AM

Black Palma Bird Print Dress 100% Silk from Haze $139.95 Shoes Black Patent Gia from Haze $109.95 Samantha Wills Bohemian Bardot Earrings $169.95 and Unapologetic Glory Cuff $149.95 both from Lilly Belle

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FASHION

SHOES

ACCESSORIES

Imported + designer labels.

Specialising in “Mother of the bride” + special occasion dressing.

PIANUR ASTUDIO

72-74 Mt Eliza Way Mt Eliza 9775 4022 Main St Mornington 5976 1633 High St Armadale 9509 0633 NOW OPEN – 75 Mitchell St Bendigo 5442 1569 Euro Collections_v3.indd 1

21/8/09 9:31:33 AM

Chris Yates

Chris

Shop 60, Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza

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T 03 9787 8122

STOCKISTS OF

Quality and service Shop clothes 60

Animale Hammock & Vine Baxter & Rose Alphabet and more…

12/8/09 1:10:52 PM

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Fascinator POA, Pianura Studio Knit Trim Cotton Jacket $875, Pianura Multi Panel Print Dress $819. Bag $199 and Nat Sui Patent Shoes $249 all from Euro Collections Ottoman - Silverwater Resort

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HANDBAGS CLOTHING GIFTWARE

Dance like the world is your stage, work like you don’t need the money, be the star that you are.

That is SO! me!

SCARVES

Bringing you a memorable shopping experience and offering product that will delight.

I luv it!

JEWELLERY

57 Bair St, (opposite Henrietta’s) Leongatha Ph 5662 3103 Open weekdays 9 - 5.30 Sat 9-2 So!me_v2.indd coast 66

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18/8/09 9:45:25 AM

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Tigerlily Mixtec Maxi $159.95 from Jean Depot

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shoes & accesso r i e s

6 Blake Street Mornington

Phone 5976 2125

Lilly Belle_v1.indd 1

14/8/09 8:02:39 AM

12 Blake St Mornington Vic 3931

An extensive range of Australian made designs

Original vintage-style fashion

Ph 03 5976 3066 Open 7 Days

Yoko.indd 1

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13/8/09 10:03:22 AM

La Bella stockist of Pepr jewellery

Molly Moo + Tilly Bear – Children’s fashion

Wrenchs Footwear

Kudos – Vintage and recycled fashion and jewellery coast 69

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.BILLABONG. .LEE.TIGER LILY. .RUSTY.ROXY. .QUIKSILVER. .OAKLEY. .VON ZIPPER. .HAVAIANAS. .& MORE. 5 Smith St Plaza Compass Arcade Leongatha 3953

41-43 McBride Ave Wonthaggi 3995

T

T

03 5662 3023

03 5672 3656

Jean Depot_v3.indd 1

1SOUL Streetwear & Body Jewellery

6/8/09 9:44:43 AM

Insight Elwood Stussy Freshjive Mooks Mossimo Tuk Shoes Paul Frank

141 graham street, wonthaggi

(03) 5672 5338 one soul V1.indd coast 70

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21/8/09 11:22:32 AM

www.wren c h s f o o t w e a r. c o m

Originally opened as a bootmaker in 1910, W r e n c h ’s F o o t w e a r i s n o w S o u t h G i p p s l a n d ’s largest independent footwear store.

I t ’s h a r d t o g o p a s t o u r s t y l i s h r a n g e w h i c h has something for every age and taste. From high fashion to high comfort, our friendly team will have you stepping out in style.

S H O E R E PA I R S

•

HANDBAGS

145-147 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995

•

ACCESSORIES T 03 5672 1 1 3 7 coast 71

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For all your computing and electrical needs for complete Entertainment

Great advice from the friendliest team in town

specialising in quality dining, and function experiences

OPEN 7 DAYS 37 McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi, Vic. 3995 P: 03 5672 1490 F: 03 5672 2907

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Harvey Norman_v1.indd 1

11/8/09 11:54:01 Wonthaggi AM Club_v1.indd 1

16 Mc Bride ave Wonthaggi tel: 5672 1007 e: wonclub@dcsi.net.au www.wonthaggiclub.com.au 12/8/09 10:23:15 AM

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Wonderful Wonthaggi A country town or seaside escape? Well, Wonthaggi is really the best of both worlds. Read on to discover the all the wonders of Wonthaggi.

photo warren reed

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State Coal Mine

The heroes’ journey…

UNDERGROUND TOURS recommencing Saturday November 14th (Conditions apply).

For enquiries call 03 5672 3053 www.fscm.org.au www.parkweb.vic.gov.au

Wonthaggi

Open daily 10am – 4.30pm Garden Street, Wonthaggi

State Coal Mine_v2.indd 1

12/8/09 9:36:44 AM

New Season’s

Check out our range of

TILES ON SHOW

WOOD HEATING

Come and visit our friendly, boutique, tile shop where great price and service is our priority. With a huge range of over 4,500 top quality tiles and a color matching service, we will spend the time to help you create the perfect look.

We also stock a great range of readily available wood heaters. With parts & accessories, and tool sets available at competitive prices. Our after sales service will ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase.

WONTHAGGI TILE& WOOD HEATING 323a Bass Highway, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995

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Phone: 5672 2543 Fax: 5672 2326 31/7/09 11:51:06 AM

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wonthaggi

words sue webster photos state coal mine

100 years

Wonthaggi. If you were an anagram fan you’d instantly recognise that you could rearrange those letters into “with a gong’. Only Wonthaggi never had a gong … it had a whistle. The whistle at the State Coal Mine ruled the town of Wonthaggi for nearly 60 years. The shifts of coal miners started and finished their work to its shrill blast. That screech would have made the pit ponies prick up their ears. The officeworkers pick up their pens. The miners pick up their picks.

Made by John Danks and Son Pty Ltd, the whistle was formerly located at the mine’s powerhouse, but is now housed in the old poppet head in Apex Park on Murray St, from whence it sounds daily at noon. The poppet head is worth a visit. The original wooden structure was built in the 1950s for the Wonthaggi coalfields’ Kirrak Area airshaft, which ceased operation in 1968. The current poppet head, erected in the park in 1972, stands 25m tall, and was one of 24 similar structures which straddled the shafts in the Wonthaggi coalfields.

The mines closed in 1968, but Wonthaggi remained prominent in South Gippsland as the retail and commercial hub of the region. That

resilience had its origins in the town’s formation. Wonthaggi’s rebirth belies a grittiness drawn from its first white settlers. Wonthaggi was a frontier-town of the last century, and the people it attracted were the original ‘have-a-go’ types. 1909 saw the first sod turned for the State Coal Mine, and former gold miners flocked there within weeks.

Riddled with thin seams and extreme faulting, the Wonthaggi colliery was one of Australia’s largest and most dangerous, and claimed 80 miners’ lives. And despite Wonthaggi being a government-run town initially, it was a wellspring of unionism. The hot-spot of Victoria’s southeast must have set a dizzying pace during those early years. >

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AVAILABLE AT LA BELLA HOME COLLECTIONS

Simplyunique 140 Graham Street Wonthaggi Victoria 3995 T 03 5672 4812 M 0402 244 537

for your local supplier, product range and to buy online visit -

www.pepper-fashion.com La Bella_v2.indd 1

19/8/09 2:17:43 PM

Anita Stepano-Ross (Dip. Fine Art/Dip. Education)

ARTISTS STUDIO – Fine Art – Paintings/Drawings Oil/Acrylic/Charcoal

Book Illustration on commission, in any medium

Viewing of works by appointment All works on exhibition for sale T 5678 7346 M 0412 105 841 Email anarte@dcsi.net.au Google redbubble . anarte

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14/8/09 10:35:32 AM

feature area – wonthaggi

Originally a tent town, the population soon rose rapidly to between 2000 and 3000 people living in 400 tents. Do the maths – that’s five to six people per tent. In summer and in winter. Construction of permanent houses started in November 1909, and the tent town was largely emptied by the following July. A Hawthorn-based building contractor was paid 20,000 pounds to build 100 houses in three months. That’s a house a day. Every day. Including Sundays. No nail guns then, either. Or pre-constructed roof trusses. Or quick-set cement.

Autumn was fading; obviously no-one fancied another Wonthaggi winter under canvas.

The little coal town must have been incandescent with activity. By November 1910 the population hit 4000 and was rising, and the authorities decided they needed to build a reservoir - and a year later they had one. Also, the Nyora/Woolamai railway line was extended 22km to Wonthaggi in only ten weeks.

Unsurprisingly, early arrivals to the boomtown were a policeman and a doctor... closely followed by a minister, in a church which doubled up as a school. There was a council within two years of the mine being established, a railway station – with foot warmers – within three years.

A union-run levy system saw a medical and dental service, pharmacist and hospital set up within five years.

Wonthaggi has earned its stripes several times over – from the drive of its foundation to the way it cared for its own during times of hardship.

And in 2009, as the town built on coal celebrates its centenary, Wonthaggi offers its rich historical heritage to visitors and locals alike.

While mining operations in the town have long since ceased, the history of this period has been preserved at Wonthaggi’s State Coal Mine Historic Reserve. The demanding working conditions of mining days are revived through interpretive displays and historic buildings.

Parts of the old mine are now reopened for guided tours.

From its earliest days, Wonthaggi was a town driven by dreams of prosperity. The town was well-planned. Streets were wide and the commercial centre was attractive. Activity concentrated around Graham Street and McBride Avenue, which is lined with Norfolk Island pines. On the main route to Wilson’s Promontory, Wonthaggi is now a perfect base for visitors wishing to explore South Gippsland.

In the town you can explore the Wonthaggi Wetlands, the North School Wild Flowers Reserve, the Old Rescue Station and the State Coal Mine above-ground walk. Each is an easy, short walk with wheelchair access.

Enter the wetlands boardwalk off Dudley Road opposite the Pony Club.

A map is available from the Wonthaggi Visitor Information Centre. The North School walk is equally suitable for all levels of mobility and fitness.

Start this 1km walk from White Rd on the west side of the school.

The State Coal Mine above-ground walk is about 1km return, and incorporates a range of sites across this historic reserve, including old buildings and mullock heaps.

Wonthaggi blends its proud past with its vibrant present, offering a fascinating glimpse into the way Australians used to live and work, and the way we do so today. C

From its earliest days, Wonthaggi was a town driven by dreams of prosperity.

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feature area – wonthaggi Wonthaggi MFS Dispensary Miners’ Friendly Society

"A=QPU 3ANRE?AO Specialising in affordable •

Facials and Pedicures

•

Wedding, Special Occasion and Debutante Make up

•

SunFX – Safe Tanning

•

Waxing

•

Eyelash and Eyebrow Tinting

•

Relaxation Therapy

•

Massage

Hours Monday to Friday, 9am – 5.30pm

5672 1034 169 Graham St, Wonthaggi MFS Dispensary_v1.indd 1

6/8/09 11:22:42 AM

Hear in Wonthaggi Technology has improved in the last 100 years!

Your local, permanent and independent Hearing Clinic in, around and about the Bass Coast.

Free Hearing Checks (adults) & device trials available.

For bookings, please phone 5672 5598. Visiting Cowes, Inverloch and Frankston.

Shop 8, Westend Arcade, 152 Graham Street, Wonthaggi.

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Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm.

12/8/09 8:13:35 AM

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With beautiful beaches and rolling hills all around, Wonthaggi is a great place to live, visit and work.

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The National Asthma Council Australia and Asthma & Respiratory Foundation of New Zealand introduced the Sensitive Choice program to help identify products better suited for people who suffer from asthma and allergies. They chose Daikin as the only Split System Air Conditioners authorised to display the Sensitive Choice butterfly symbol.

ed by ept Z . c ac & N rs lia e a n io ustr t i A ond The only Split System Air C m in gra the Sensitive Choice pro

Daikin Split Systems have advanced air-purifying technology that may help reduce the triggers that affect asthma and allergy sufferers. This technology also helps to provide a cleaner, fresher indoor environment for you and your family.

This exclusive acceptance reflects the advanced technology and innovation of Daikin’s Split System Air Conditioners.

www.daikin.com.au

Bass Coast Refrigeration are here to serve all your air conditioning requirements. Sales, installations, service and repairs are all carried out in-house by qualified refrigeration mechanics. Call them or drop in for an obligation free quote and discover the benefits and savings a new Daikin Inverter split system can offer you.

Bass Coast Refrigeration V_1.ind1 1

bcra@aanet.com.au 12/8/09 2:36:37 PM

Does your house need a fresh coat of paint?

WONTHAGGI 21 Billson Street Tel (03) 5672 5522 Fax (03) 5672 5533 Paint Place_v1.indd coast 80

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COWES 149 Thompson Avenue Tel (03) 5952 2522 Fax (03) 5952 2593 11/8/09 3:40:50 PM

wonthaggi @ a glance

Entertainment

Health

The Wonthaggi Club quality dining & functions p. 72

About Bass Coast Hearing Your local, independent and permanent hearing clinic p.78

Wonthaggi State Coal Mine is recommencing underground tours. Take the heroes’ journey at this quality attraction. Open daily p. 74 Gardens & Homewares Bass Coast Auctions comes alive every second Sunday at noon with a quality auction p. 82 Harvey Norman great advice on all your computing and electrical needs from their friendly team p. 72 Melbourne Furnishings has been providing quality service and homewares for 100 years p. 82 Nordic Designs brings Scandinavian flair to your life p.157 Simply Blooming Gorgeous adds colour to your life with flowers and homewares p.110 The Country Gardener Wonthaggi is the region’s largest nursery and also has a range of antiques p.100 Wonthaggi Garden Supplies offers old-fashioned friendly service and a great range p.108 Fashion 1 Soul the latest in funky streetwear and body jewellery p.70

John Gemmill is helping families using the best of Eastern and Western natural medicine p.158 MFS Dispensary specialises in facials and pedicures, make up, waxing, tanning & massage p.78 Trades & Services Bass Coast Refrigeration can serve all of your air conditioning requirements, drop in for a quote p.80 Bass Coast Shire Council is based in Wonthaggi so visit their service centre in McBride Avenue p.111 Beaumont Concepts designing your dreams p.149 Birch Ross & Barlow Your local solicitors have been operating in Sth Gippsland for over 100 years p.161 Eric Van Agtmaal Quality builder p.149 Evans Petroleum Fill up your tank at Mobil p.161 Loes Hardware is the ‘tradie’s hardware’ for all your serious hardware needs p.109 Paint Place for all your painting needs and advice p.80

Jean Depot All the top brands in clothing and swimwear p.70

TS Constructions Bass Coast and South Gippsland’s premier commercial building company p.129

Karmella Fashions great styles for all ages at an affordable price p.157

Wonthaggi Tile & Woodheating is a friendly, boutique tile shop with a great range of wood heaters p.74

La Bella Home Collections has a tempting range of jewellery, gifts and accessories p.76

Woodwork Solutions Wonthaggi is lucky to have Kevin Holden who offers specialised joinery solutions p.160

Lime Fusion will help you achieve the latest look p.60

Close by

Lulu is about fashion and style with quality brands and service p. 60 Wrenches Footwear opened in 1910 and now South Gippsland largest independent footwear store p.71

Archies on the Creek is opening its doors in October p.4 Lovely Kilcunda is home to Ocean View Hotel p.136 Anita Stepano-Ross Artist Studio p.76

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feature area – wonthaggi

We’ve come a long way in 100 years but the one thing that doesn’t change is good, old fashioned service and quality goods…

119 Graham Street, Wonthaggi, Vic. 3995

T: 03 5672 1027 F: 03 5672 2434

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E: melbfurnco@bigpond.com 14/8/09 12:19:27 PM

AUCTION EVERY SECOND SUNDAY AT 12 NOON

Best prices paid for quality antiques, china and artwork. Call us now for a free quote!

BASS COAST

AUCTIONS Bass Coast Auctions_v1.indd coast 82

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ANTIQUES – CHINA, COLLECTABLES ARTWORK | NEW FURNITURE | BRIC A BRAC LIQUIDATION FURNITURE 5 -7 Korumburra Road Wonthaggi (Behind Big W) Ph: 5672 1777 www.basscoastauctions.com.au 13/8/09 9:59:12 AM

OPEN 7 DAYS Weekdays 8:30am to 6:00pm Saturday 8:30am to 5:30pm Sunday 9:00am to 5:30pm

Stockist of:

Cowes Pharmacy 24 Thompson Ave Cowes Vic 3922 Tel: 03 5952 2061 Fax: 03 5952 2499 cowes@amcal.net.au

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21/8/09 4:26:15 PM

Creating peace of mind for you and your family...

Your residential Aged Care Placement on the East Coast

Looking for Aged Care?

Placing a loved one into an aged care facility is a stressful event for families and loved ones which can be eased significantly with the help of a Domain Placement Co-ordinator. Because every situation is different we will evaluate your requirements and use our extensive industry experience to secure a suitable home. With up to date knowledge of residence vacancies we can direct you to a residence of your choice in the shortest time possible, enabling the transition from home to residential care to be a positive experience.

Let our Placement Co-ordinator assist you through your search by . . .

• Guiding you through the maze of documentation • Assisting you in selecting a suitable residence • Arranging tours of the residence of your choice

• Assisting with putting your home & affairs in order • Consultation and support in the aged care placement process • Information on financial implications or residential care • Moving into your new residence

And put your mind at ease.

Free call –Sandi Anderson on 1300 362 481 www.domainagedcare.com.au sandi.anderson@domainprincipal.com.au Domain.indd coast 84

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5/8/09 3:39:43 PM

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE Junior School After nearly 30 years of education excellence, Newhaven College has exciting plans for a new Junior School which will be ready for students on the first day of term in 2011.

The new Junior School will be a marvellous centre. Architecturally designed and purpose built, it will provide a splendid facility and learning environment for Prep to Grade 6 students. It will complete the second stage of the school’s magnificent 82-acre campus near Cowes, which is already home to the unique Year 9 Environmental Centre.

Newhaven College was established in 1980 with its first intake of Year 7 students. The Junior School opened in 1999 with a composite Grade 5/6 class, and the College achieved the great milestone of becoming a full Prep to Year 12 School in 2008.

Now well established, the Junior School offers a happy, welcoming community where students feel secure and valued. Under the guidance of Head of Junior School, Dr Michelle Cafini, teachers strive to create a safe, caring and nurturing environment. They build upon the strengths of their students, incorporating programs into the curriculum that foster the development of self-esteem, confidence and opportunities to develop personal, social, emotional, physical, academic and

spiritual growth. Respect for self, others, the community, the environment and resources are instilled into the daily program.

The College also provides a transition program for all enrolled Preps in the year prior to starting school. Over three sessions, the children meet their teacher and participate in a range of activities to prepare them for school life. Children meet their buddy, a senior primary student, who plays an important role in transition. The Prep teacher conducts an entry assessment session with each child to plan a curriculum that reflects the student’s knowledge and skills. Parents are invited to attend a comprehensive information session to enable a successful start to school the following year.

The importance of a good quality primary school education cannot be underestimated.

It sets students up for life, giving them a sound grounding in literacy and numeracy and an introduction to disciplines relating to science, humanities, technology, and the performing and visual arts. It also is fundamental to personal development enhancing the mind, body and soul and provides a necessary foundation for success in secondary education, tertiary studies and the student’s chosen career.

Michael Brewin, Principal

Contact Dr Michelle Cafini, Head of Junior School, cafinim@newhavencol.vic.edu.au, Ph 5956 7505. If you would like to inquire about enrolling, please contact Mrs Mary Brown, Executive Assistant; mary.brown@ newhavencol.vic.edu.au, Ph 5956 7505.

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength Situated on beautiful Phillip Island, Newhaven College is an independent school offering P-12 in a supportive environment with dedicated teachers. Outstanding features of our school include excellent VCE results and a magnificent Year 9 Environmental Centre.

Providing wonderful educational opportunities for your son or daughter An Independent Co-educational School on Phillip Island, Prep to Year 12 Newhaven College, Boys Home Road, Newhaven 3925 Ph: 5956 7505 Fax: 5956 7131 info@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Newhaven College.indd 1

6/8/09 10:37:57 AM

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ANTIQUES BOUGHT AND SOLD AUCTIONS ARRANGED

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SANDSFORD ANTIQUES SANDSFORD & CAFE

13 A’BECKETT STREET, INVERLOCH 3996

PHONE: 03 5674 3339 MOB. 0429 636 289

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South Gippsland Antique Centre SPECIALISING IN FINE QUALITY ANTIQUE FURNITURE Don’t forget to visit our Tyabb store too!

Owner - Peter McDonnell Manager - Caroline Paturzo

Open Weekends and Public Holidays 7 Mine Road, Korumburra, Vic. 3950

Ph: 5655 2605 M: 0414 523 461 www.tyabbantiquecentre.com.au Tyabb Antique Centre.indd coast 86

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Tyabb Antique Centre

Open Thurs – Sun & Public Holidays 10am – 5pm 1527 Frankston Flinders Rd, Tyabb, Vic 3913 Ph: 5977 4245 21/8/09 1:02:12 PM

promotional feature

words sally o’neill photos warren reed, destination gippsland

Destination Gippsland Gippsland, with its endless beaches, spectacular national parks and vibrant communities is a world-class tourism destination. In fact, the business of tourism in Gippsland is worth a staggering $1 billion a year and employs over 6000 people. And the good news? If you are a part of this industry, there is plenty of help at hand…

As the peak tourism body for the region, Destination Gippsland partners with a number of key stakeholders including Tourism Victoria, Regional Tourism Associations, Parks Victoria and Local Government.

“Our role is to work closely with all sectors of the tourism industry to ensure Gippsland as a destination offers a fantastic visitor experience,” says Terry Robinson, CEO of Destination Gippsland.

Destination Gippsland works with tourism associations from Bass Coast to East Gippsland to strengthen and support the industry. By becoming a member of a tourism association, businesses can benefit from belonging to a network of like-minded business owners and qualify for a range of industry support initiatives.

For example there are opportunities to participate in a range of subsidised marketing and industry training activities that link with Destination Gippsland’s award winning ‘Inspired by Gippsland’ brand.

Industry development and training examples include tourism business audits, leadership and tourism excellence programs.

The team is currently focusing on their spring promotion inspiring consumers to experience Gippsland’s great nature-based activities.

Of course, the area’s stunning National Parks will be the heroes of this campaign such as the untouched landscapes of Wilsons Promontory, Tarra Bulga, and Bunurong Coastal Marine Park.

“We plan to use some unusual channels of marketing, such as setting up a Gippsland display at Melbourne Visitor Centre, digital banners and advertising and illuminated light boxes at Melbourne tram stops,” says Terry. “Printed coffee cups featuring Gippsland accommodation deals will also be given away and the activities will be supported by extensive print and radio advertising.”

This is a good example of Destination Gippsland’s marketing power and why if you are a tourism business, you should get involved.

Contact James on 5655 2044 or jarchibald@destinationgippsland.com.au www.destinationgippsland.com.au C

Meet the team: Chief Executive Officer Terry Robinson (left) Marketing & Project Manager James Archibald (right) Marketing & Project Officer Elysa Sorahan (middle)

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coast review

down to earth Koonwarra Day Spa

Koonwarra Day Spa is a treat for the senses and will leave you feeling truly rejuvenated. It is sure to bring you gently back down to earth. The tranquil bush setting is the first thing I notice as I arrive. Birds twitter in the garden and the majestic gums provide a fresh scent. It’s not Nag Champa, just nature. I’m starting to relax by simply being here.

promotional feature

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words sally o’neill photos maria reed

Koonwarra Day Spa Mid-way between Phillip Island & the Prom.

Only 20 minutes from Inverloch.

• Couples treatments available • Pamper packages & gift vouchers available • FREE 1/2 hr Spa with any 1hr treatment when you mention this ad

9 Koala Drive Koonwarra

www.koonwarraspa.com.au

Ph: 03 5664 2332

Bookings are essential. Open Tues to Sat. Closed Sun., public holidays & Mon. off peak.

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Linda greets me and shows me around the establishment, comprising three day-spa treatment rooms and two beauty treatment rooms, that she and husband Russell had custom-built three years ago. Originally from Queensland, Linda met Russell (a local dairy farmer) on a Contiki Tour and she now calls South Gippsland home. When her two children went to school, she studied massage and beauty therapy and has now realised her dream of owning and operating her own day spa.

Linda and her team offer an enticing menu of treatments for individuals, couples and small groups. Select from rejuvenating spas or saunas, relaxing massages and aromatic body treatments, plus a range of beauty therapies including pampering facials and hand and foot treatments - all at very reasonable prices. “We don’t try to be pretentious or have 5-star luxury prices,” says Linda. “But we do offer friendly, professional service in a relaxing country environment, where our clients feel comfortable and welcome.”

13/8/09 4:06:20 PM

in: I stare back dreamily. The treatment ends with a glorious face and scalp massage, with Linda using special hand-carved granite stones that glide over my face like silk.

By now I am truly relaxed, and Linda leaves me to gather my thoughts before I get up to return to the lounge. As I sit there, rejuvenated and sipping a herbal tea, I tempt fate and reach for another Guidance card.

This one reads ‘Let your love flow’. It seems I’ve had my reality check.

A treatment menu and nearby accommodation options are available on the Koonwarra Day Spa’s website: www.koonwarraspa.com.au. C

It is my mission to experience some of the treatments Linda has on offer – a tough job, but someone has to do it! As instructed, I change into bathers and slip into a comfy robe and slippers, ready for my hydrotherapy spa. As I wait in the lounge, I select a Guidance card from a box on the coffee table – it reads: ‘Time for a reality check’. Very wise, as our busy lives often take us away from the really important things – like nature. I contemplate that thought as I relax in the hydrotherapy spa on the outdoor deck overlooking bushland - birds providing the background soundtrack.

After the spa, I shuffle into the massage room where I am pampered all over with a 90 minute, hot-stone relaxation massage. The treatment begins with a gentle massage using oil, and then warm stones are placed on my body and also used in gentle massage strokes. Whilst I have had many massages in my time, I have never experienced the use of hot stones. Each part of the body absorbs the warmth of the stones, allowing my stress to melt away and the masseur to soothe any aches and pains effortlessly. A rosella sits on the windowsill and looks

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It’s 10.30pm on a Wednesday night and the nightlife on Phillip Island is booming: the boys are looking for mates, and the girls are showing off in front of them. But we are not in a town; we’re in the middle of a penguin colony. Long after the lights are turned off at the Penguin Parade, the penguin scientists come out and their work begins as they try to understand the lives of these tiny birds.

words sally o’neill photos warren reed and supplied “At the moment, I know more about these penguins than I do about my own kids,” says penguin biologist, Dr André Chiaradia as we wander in the dark to the study site. “I’ve been sharing every second night with them for two months. We’ve followed each stage of the breeding cycle and we have to work when the penguins are home, so it’s a 10.30pm start each night.”

Accompanying André is Dr Ilka Zimmer, a very specialised penguin biologist who has travelled from her home at the base of the Mont Blanc in France (although she is originally from Germany) to work at Phillip Island for three months as part of a collaborative project with the French University of Strasbourg.

Ilka discovered her love of penguins in New Zealand and has continued this love affair with several species on different continents. Being fluent in French, German and English is a bonus. She has worked with Emperor Penguins in Antarctica, Magellanic Penguins in Argentina and now Little Penguins in Australia. She recounts a funny story about her time in Antarctica when she had to ‘catch’ an Emperor Penguin for the first time. While trying to grab the penguin with a “rugby-like” tackle on the sea-ice, it tobogganed away on its belly with her on its back - she was more careful the next time!

“Little Penguins are seabirds: they live at sea, not on land,” says Ilka.

“They live under water – this is the most important part of their life. To date, their lives at sea have been a mystery, and it’s hard to convince people that things are happening to the penguins and changes need to be made.”

Phillip Island Nature Park has been researching Little Penguins’ lives on land for over forty years, making theirs the longest continuous bird study in Australia. But penguins spend half of their life in the water, so the research team is now studying penguins at sea. “Penguins use

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their environment in three dimensions, so we are observing where penguins go at sea, and how they dive and what they eat when they are there” says André. The simple aim of this complex project is to try to reveal the mysteries of Little Penguins’ lives at sea. “The more we find out, the more we can understand how various factors affect them.

We have been able to protect penguins on land on Phillip Island, and we want to be able to protect them at sea as well,” says André of this unique undertaking.

“We are looking for a link between penguin diving behaviour and their adaptation to natural changes,” says Ilka. Then we can have sound models for their management in the future.” Their work is aided by improved technology – the devices scientists need to track and monitor the penguins are getting smaller and more efficient, allowing researchers to get better information with less effect on the penguins’ natural behaviour. To date, the team has worked on getting information on foraging behaviour such as where the penguins go, how deep they dive, if they hunt alone or in groups and so on. This year, they are trying to link several studies such as those on satellite tracking, diving and diet to see how they react with the marine system and how changes such as sea temperature or other environmental conditions affect them. This is especially important for issues like climate change that could affect the penguins.

“When I started the diving project, I was like ‘Wow, these birds are amazing’,” says André. “I was just used to the struggling, biting birds I met on land. Now I have heaps more respect for their remarkable diving abilities . I say ‘You are such a legend penguin!’” Legend does seem to be an appropriate term for these 33cm tall birds; the deepest recorded dive is 73 metres, the longest two minutes and they undertake up to 1300 dives a day in search of food.

“Little Penguins are more promiscuous than you might think. People used to believe they mate for life. But, before they lay eggs, there’s a lot of hanky panky. They shop around!”

penguin obsession Phillip Island’s Little Penguins are the smallest of the 17 species in the world.

Once called Fairy Penguins, they are now known as Little Penguins as this is their true common name. They stand approximately 33cm tall and weigh about 1 kilogram.

Penguin feathers are fully waterproof, and dark blue and white.

A penguin’s stomach holds one third of its body weight.

You can help Little Penguins by adopting one at www. penguinfoundation.org.au

Research over the years has given the team some great insights into penguins’ lives, with early studies revealing some very personal information. “Little Penguins are more promiscuous than you might think. People used to believe they mate for life. But, before they lay eggs, there’s a lot of hanky panky. They shop around!” says André. The reason for this promiscuity goes back to the fact that penguins’ lives are perilous. “The annual death rate for adult penguins is up to 30%, so if penguins come back to breed and their partner is not there, they think ‘I’d better find someone else fast!’ If their partner returns, they will usually reunite. But sometimes, they say ‘Sorry, mate; you are too late’ and divorce happens. So, it makes sense to always keep your options open - in the penguin world only of course!” explains André.

We enter the observation tower at the Penguin Parade, fire up the computer and the pair download information from the trackers about which penguin is and isn’t home from sea yet. “I can do this from anywhere on the planet,” says André, but he seems pretty comfortable right where he is.

Ilka detects a bit of a traffic jam on the automated weighbridge, which may explain why the penguin we are waiting for has not yet been detected. If they ‘slip through’ undetected, the pair will go out and check the burrow just to be sure.

They decide to monitor and tag some chicks and return with a pair of almost fully-grown penguins. They have shiny, gleaming blue and white feathers with some last remaining brown, downy baby feathers.

Brown fluff flies as they struggle and make a high-pitched cheeping sound. “The chicks are not as stressed as the adults. They just try to bite you: they are like teenagers – they have no fear,” says Ilka. “We monitor their stress levels by the dilation of their pupils.”

“That’s not too bad,” says André as he records a weight of 760 grams.

They also measure bill depth, head, flipper and bill length. “This chick is really going to make it - it’s a great weight for this year, which has been pretty average for the penguins,” says André.

They inject a transponder which will identify it for the rest of its life. “It’s does exactly the same job as the E-tag for your car, but we call it a P-tag!” jokes André. They were about to repeat the procedure with its sibling, but it weighed under 500g, which is a concern to the researchers – so they decided not to inject the transponder.

This five-year study has produced a lot of data about the previously unknown marine lives of penguins. It’s a bank of knowledge that is invaluable in understanding their environment in the future. “Our main goal is to discover how penguins have adapted to natural changes, and if they can adapt to those caused by climate change ” says Ilka.

Just before we leave, I ask André to sum up the life of a penguin biologist.

“The penguins’ resilience is a good message for us; it’s great to see how persistent they are in such unpredictable and tough conditions. It’s a good life lesson. In tough times, you just have to work harder and see it through,” he says.

It’s after 1am and we pack up our gear, eagerly heading towards home.

André and Ilka are not so lucky, as the penguin they are waiting for still has not returned home. They wave us goodbye and return to their monitoring. It’s a little quieter in the colony as we wander back.

The penguins are in their burrows catching a bit of rest and will then head out to sea before sunrise. I think they can rest easy knowing that scientists like André and Ilka are dedicating their lives to caring about their future. C

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coast nature experience

Visit Phillip Island Nature Park

New & Sustainable Centre The tranquil bush setting of the Koala Conservation Centre will soon be home to an innovative visitor centre.

The building will incorporate the latest in sustainable design priciples and materials and include displays and information about koalas, environmental sustainability and how we can all add a little more green to our lives.

Opening December 2009

Phillip Island Nature Park covers over 1800 hectares on Phillip Island and includes: • The world-famous Penguin Parade where the Little Penguins waddle ashore to their burrows in the sand dunes every evening at sunset.

There is a visitor centre and a selection of ranger-led tours and penguin viewing options.

• The Koala Conservation Centre is nestled in remnant bushland with abundant birdlife. Treetop boardwalks allow you to experience koalas in their natural habitat.

• The new Nobbies Centre features displays about the local marine environment and unique cameras that allow you to view the seals offshore at Seal Rocks.

• Churchill Island Heritage Farm is a charming historic island that is the site of the first crops and building in Victoria in 1801. Today, it is a working farm with daily demonstrations and visitor centre, café, heritage gardens and buildings and walking tracks.

• The Nature Park also manages most of Phillip Island’s coastline including the spectacular Nobbies and famous surfing beaches such as Cape Woolamai and Flynns Beach and protected areas like Rhyll Inlet and wetland.

You can visit all of these attractions with one discounted ticket – the 3 Parks Pass. Remember, all revenue goes back into protecting Phillip Island and its wildlife!

Phillip Island Nature Park www.penguins.org.au 5951 2800 For injured wildlife on Phillip Island 24 hours a day, call 5951 2800 and follow the prompts. C coast 93

12 Macquarie Street, Prahran, Victoria 3181 Phone: (03) 9525 2187 Fax: (03) 9525 2438 Phillip Island Agent: David Waters 0418 516 850

building your investment n n n

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Sustainable energy assessmants Water conservation & installation Solar energy and natural heating and cooling Renovations & extensions Retrofitting David R Waters 36 Pall Mall, Ventnor, Phillip Island 3922 Email david@islanddevelopments.co.uk Office (03) 5956 8881 Mobile 0418 516 850

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18/8/09 9:47:35 AM

75< %()25( <28 %8< &+22.6 Been considering chooks?

Never done anything about it?

Well here is your chance.

Chooks and pen in your own backyard.

Chooks are a cool environmentally sustainable pet.

FRESH EGGS (about 300 per year per chook)

Hen N Pen allows you to try keeping chooks without having to commit to them permanently.

Chooks sold separately, pens also sold separately

Mat

5672 1557

email: hennpenmat@gmail.com Hen n Pen_v3.indd coast 94

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green feature

Hen N Pen

Putting Life Back Into Your Soil

A Greener Life with Style

Now here’s a unique idea; try-before-you -buy chooks! Mat will bring his ISA Brown chooks to you for a six-week trial in your own backyard. If you like these sustainable pets, you can keep them. “Keeping chooks requires about the same level of expertise as having a gold fish in a bowl,” says Mat. Call Mat on 5672 1557 or hennpenmat@gmail.com

After the birth of their first child Dugald and Kristie Cameron recognised the need to find an alternative to conventional farming methods that does not include the use of harsh chemicals. They discovered TNN Industries, a company that believes nutritional and profitable agriculture has its foundation in a balanced, healthy and biologically alive soil. They have proven that an approach to agriculture through a healthy soil can vastly decrease the need for herbicides and pesticides, as well as animal health treatments, by promoting a naturally balanced diet and environment for plants and animals. Phone Cameron Contracting to discuss a TNN system to suit your property 0438 568 697.

Seagrove is a high-quality, environmentallysensitive, master-planned community in Cowes, on Phillip Island. Less than 700m from the beach, it enjoys a superb natural environment featuring mature trees and rich native bird life. Great care has been taken by the award - winning designers in the creation of parks and streetscapes, retention of trees, and selection of street lighting, paving, and street furniture to complement the natural environment. www.seagrove.com.au Call1800 616 106.

Phillip Island Nature Park There’s more to Phillip Island Nature Park than the famous Penguin Parade. This nonprofit ecotourism organisation is dedicated to protecting and managing over 20% of Phillip Island and its wildlife. They have the highest ecotourism rating of any attraction in Australia and proceeds are put back into protecting Phillip Island’s wildlife and environment. They also care for sick and injured wildlife on Phillip Island.

Call 5951 2800 www.penguins.org.au

Water Tanks Van Steensel Timbers in Grantville has a wide range of water tanks for your home or property. Save money and water with their selection of factory-seconds.

Cnr. Corinella turn-off and Bass Hwy. Call 5678 8552.

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Solar Energy – A gift from the sun!

Converting your home to solar energy is a meaningful way to make a difference to the environment – and to your electricity bills.

Island Eco Developments David and his team are specialists in retrofitting and renovating domestic houses for maximum energy efficiency. They offer energy assessments with options to improve your home with a competitive quote. With professional tradespeople carrying out the work you will be improving not only your home but also the planet.

David is also an agent for Lightsave Pty Ltd. This Australian technology has been developed to significantly reduce energy consumption and achieve savings of up to 25% while reducing your carbon footprint and improving energy Star Ratings for premises. Call David on 5956 8881 or 0418 516 850.

Solar Shop Australia has a local team of dedicated advisors who offer their expertise in renewable technology and create solar power solutions that will suit your needs.

Grid-connected solar power systems are not only great for the environment, but they reduce your electricity bills and increase the value of property. For these reasons, more Australians are looking to the sun to power their home than ever before. Solar Shop Australia Call 133 SOLAR (133 765) www.solarshop.com.au

green guide

green feature

A Green Year

Solahart - rebates still available!

Secondhand with Style

Newhaven College year nine students spend a year at a special environmental campus that features sustainably-designed buildings set amongst a natural woodland environment. The curriculum is designed around local and global environmental themes and is developed to meet the needs of Year 9 students.

Call 5956 7505. www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

Solahart is the leading manufacturer of solar water-heaters in Australia. Installing a Solahart will have a huge impact on your water-heating energy consumption. It’s one of the best things you can do to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and beat rising costs,” says Solahart National Business Manager, Stephen Cranch. “There has never been a better time to choose solar hot water. In some cases a fully-installed solar hot water system is around the same price as an electric water-heater,” says Stephen.

What are you waiting for?

Call your local expert on 1300 721 946 or www.solahart.com.au

Buying antiques or second-hand goods is a great way of recycling. Have a look at these great businesses: Southern Bazaar p.23, Kongwak Market p.159, Sandsford Antiques p.86, L&J Tuddin p.157, Mornington Antique Centre p.115 and Tyabb & Sth Gipps Antique Centre p.86

Bass Coast Shire Council Check out the council’s website for their ‘Sustainable Living Guide’. The Council is also pleased to report that it now is able to collect items with codes 1-7 for recycling.

So always think recycling first. Call 1300 BCOAST (226 278)

Island Healing Caring for your health in a natural way is a positive step for the environment. The team at Island Healing in Newhaven offer a range of alternative therapies and treatments along with classes and programs to keep your body and mind fit and healthy. 6 Forrest Ave, Newhaven Call 5956 7886. www.islandhealing.com.au

Green Design and Construction Green living starts with clever design and then building using the latest in sustainable products and techniques. Coast’s range of qualified designers and builders is a great resource when designing and building your dream, green home. Check them out on pages 2&3, 94, 145-154 and 161.

Kudos Gallery – New from old “Recycling and sustainability may be the latest buzzwords, but they’re nothing new in my family,” says Kaz. “My mother and grandmother have been recycling for so many years that it’s second nature to me. I have trouble cutting into new fabrics – and always prefer to make something new from something old.” Check out Kaz’s range of stunning clothing - new pieces made from old fabrics. She has vintage clothing for ladies and will soon have a vintage kids’ range. She also stocks a range of stylish homewares made from recycled materials.

137 Marine Parade, San Remo. Call 5678 5944.

www.basscoast.vic.gov.au

Good Wood When you are selecting timber and timber products, check out Greenpeace’s ‘Good Wood Guide’. It ensures that timbers come from ethical and ecologically-sustainable sources. When you choose Good Wood, you support a solution to deforestation and related climate change, you protect unique biodiversity and you help local forest communities find alternatives to poverty and loss of livelihood. www.goodwoodguide.org.au

Living well needn’t cost the earth or mean you need to sacrifice on style.

green guide coast 97

green feature

Use technology to reduce paper waste.

Make the switch to online marketing and sales.

A website is a dynamic business tool to promote your products and services around the clock to every business and household worldwide, reducing the need to print brochures.

If you rely on paper-based brochures, catalogues, newsletters, price lists or order forms, talk to Meehan Design and move your business online. Engage and educate customers, increase sales, cut down costs and reduce your impact on the environment with a website.

Electronic brochures Email newsletters Mailing lists Search engine optimisation

Product catalogues Online shopping portal Image galleries Update content instantly

Visit www.meehandesign.com.au or call (03) 9495 1265 and make the switch.

Meehan_Design_Advert_edition2.indd 1

29/7/08 10:43:52 PM

CAMERON CONTRACTING Agricultural Services

• Livestock care and farm management • Rural and equine fencing • Direct drilling, cultivating, spreading and spraying • Hay and silage production

Now consultants for TNN Industries

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Servicing Phillip Island and surrounding areas

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6/8/09 1:39:48 PM

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THE COUNTRY GARDENER WONTHAGGI

OPEN 7 DAYS Designer pots, natives, ornamentals & indoor plants

Giftware / Fountains / Garden Furniture / Antiques

Come and visit the region’s largest nursery with an extensive range of antiques.

19 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi Vic 3995

T 03 5672 4866

Country Gardener_v4.indd 1

12/8/09 8:04:30 AM

Splinter dry Redgum Firewood, and bagged hardwood kindling for sale.

We have an extensive range of soils, sand, mulch, garden rocks, screenings, crushed rock, mushroom compost and much more. �ow offering free computer water testing. �ool Servicing and pool supplies.

• Yes We Hire!

• Brick Cutting

BLUE GUM

• Dingo & Attachments

• Wacker

92-94 Dunsmore Rd, Cowes 3922 Phillip Island Victoria Tel (03) 5952 3855 Fax (03) 59521888

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• Bobcat & Tipper

19/8/09 2:15:44 PM

gardening feature

garden guide

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gardening feature

royalflush words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Fifty years in the planning, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne is world-class.

Patriotically representing the diversity and beauty of Australian plants, the garden’s many landscapes are especially magical in spring.

There’s over 100 000 plants with 10 000 species represented at Cranbourne Botanic Gardens. First opened to the public in 1989, its clever layout and meticulous planning give an overall impression of grandeur – in a very Aussie way. Every plant is an Australian native showcased in its natural landscape. All set within some of the area’s last remaining bushland.

Spring is the perfect time to discover or re-discover this treasure. Over the past year, there have been new additions to the gardens and, the ever-changing program of events gives you the perfect excuse for another visit.

The Australian Garden forms the ‘red heart’ of the site. The nine hectares of landscaped gardens is a spectacular experience. Thousands of plants are arranged in 15 different landscape displays and exhibition gardens allowing you to immerse yourself in a wide array of Australian plants, landscapes, art and architecture. You’ll always learn something new from one of the Volunteer Master Gardeners, or by joining a tour with one of the dedicated volunteer guides.

Surrounding the Australian Garden and Visitor Centre precinct (covering about two-thirds of the 363-hectare site) is rare remnant natural woodland. The land is the ancestral home of the Mayone-

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Bulluk clan of the Boonerwurung people and provides important habitat for a range of plants and wildlife, including several rare and endangered species.

The woodland is accessible via a series of parking areas connected by tracks and boardwalks. The recently-opened Stringybark Picnic Area is great for a picnic or bbq – look out for wildlife such as bandicoots and colourful birdlife including, Superb Fairy Wrens and Eastern Yellow Robins. Follow the paths to Trig Point Lookout and be rewarded with 360-degree views across to Western Port and Port Philip Bay, Mount Macedon and the Melbourne city.

Spring is the time for wildflowers. During spring, the bush is carpeted with beautiful native wildflowers, including Heath Teatree, Love Creeper, Wedding Bush and Naked Sun Orchids.

Work has commenced on the second and final stage of the Australian Garden which will add nine hectares and include garden displays and an extension to the visitor centre which will open on 6th September. It is also planned to add space for 1,500 people to enjoy cultural events.

The stylish Boonwurung Café has just been extended in recent months and has a tempting modern menu and great coffee. The Garden Shop is packed with quality gifts, art and books with a botanic theme. C

Spring into Activities Fathers Day This year, families can celebrate Father’s Day by kicking the tyres of some of the ‘big guys’ equipment used at the gardens. On Sunday 6 September, dads get in free to enjoy this special activity.

Wildflower Festival Fun for all the family to enjoy the gardens as they put on their finest show.

19 September - 4 October Garden Grubs Kids Club Celebrate Grubby’s first birthday 3 October Victorian Seniors Festival 7 & 8 October The Story of Gums Join this new guided tour which is held every Tuesday. It includes billy tea and damper. C

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gardening feature

Bass Coast Shire Council

Loes Hardware

Blue Gum Garden Supplies

In the lead up to the fire season, green waste can be deposited free of charge at any Council Waste Transfer and Recycling Centre. This happens in November and December each year, so visit Council’s website to confirm the dates for 2009. www.basscoast.vic.gov.au

When you are serious about getting the job done, Loes Hardware can help. This is the real ‘tradie’s hardware’ for the professional or serious DIY handyman. They have a full range of hire equipment, pool fencing, power tools and much more.

37 McKenzie Rd, Wonthaggi Call 5672 1628 www.loeshardware.com.au

The friendly team at Blue Gum Garden Supplies in Cowes has a large range of soils, sand, screenings, compost and more.

Their hire equipment means they can be your one-stop shop for a small job through to a major garden makeover. They offer pool servicing, supplies and free computer water testing. 92-94 Dunsmore Rd, Cowes Call 5952 3855

Archies on the Creek With accolades from the Chelsea Flower Show to the Melbourne International Flower Show, Mark Browning of Cycas Landscaping has big plans for the grounds of the region’s newest function centre.

Archies on the Creek’s grounds will be transformed into stunning gardens using existing features such as the lake and fountain creating the perfect backdrop for your next wedding or function.

Opening in late October – 81 Archies Creek Rd, Archies Creek Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au

Westernport Water Waste water from the bath, shower, washing machine and basins is a useful backup water supply for your garden ... provided it’s used wisely. Advice for using grey water: - Only use rinse water and do not use it on plants that could be eaten raw.

- Keep children and pets away when you apply it. Wash your hands after watering.

- Grey water can contain bacteria and other unhealthy contaminants. These can brew if stored in tanks too long so do not store it for longer than 24 hours.

Beach St Garden Gallery This charming gallery and café is all about concept gardening. Their displays will give you inspiration for creating unique, themed garden spaces with everything from lighting and beautiful decorations to original artworks. Their qualified florist creates stunning arrangements with fresh blooms in daily. 162 Beach Street, Frankston Call 9783 7109.

When you apply grey water to the garden, try to limit contact with the air - apply the water as close to the plant roots as possible. Do not flow grey water through above-ground sprinklers. It is safe to let it flow through a sub-surface system, or an irrigation system fitted with underground drippers. Remember to clean the filters regularly. www.westernportwater.com.au \

GARDENGUIDE

GUIDE

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Pat Barrett Horticultural Services Pat is a qualified horticulturalist. It was when he was working at Kuranga Native Nursery that he discovered his passion for Australian plants. “I love plant species from all over Australia,” says Pat. “Not just those that are indigenous to this area. It’s the obvious beauty of banksias and grevilleas and also the subtle beauty of many other, lesser-known species.” Pat believes you can create harmonious plantings using Australian plants from different parts of the country. He enjoys the challenge of planting in dry shade under trees, or in a frontline coastal position with the challenges of high wind and salt spray.

“I never install irrigation in my gardens,” says Pat. “There are ample genuinely droughttolerant species available.”

Pat Barrett Horticultural Services Qualified Horticulturalist specialising in coastal and native gardens

0422 685 045 Pat Barrett_v1.indd coast 106

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Native plant nursery (by appointment only) Bobcat and tipper hire 19/8/09 2:14:23 PM

gardening feature

Island Landscape & Design Island Landscape and Design’s Matt Crooks likes to takes on jobs from concept through to construction and completion. Matt’s small and talented team loves a challenge and relish the opportunity to be creative. “The casual, coastal-themed gardens we have pioneered down here are now taking off in Melbourne,” says Matt. “We have an awesome array of products and love to incorporate local artists and recycled elements,” he adds.

After > • Terraced garden • Decking integrated with curved link-wall system.

• Drought-tolerant plants.

• Great focal point for the front entry.

Matt’s tip? “Be upfront with your designer about your needs and your budget. This will allow us to make the most of your makeover budget.”

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Before: The site was unusable and didn’t create a welcoming entry to the home.

JTMBOE MBOETDBQF

EFTJHO

Cutting edge design & landscaping for seaside gardens

. design consultations . water features . low maintenance/ drought tolerant gardens . paving & retaining walls . mediteranean/pacific style gardens . over 15 years experience . latest styles and products

Matt Crooks . Smiths Beach . Phillip Island. 0419 356 222 t. 5952 3838 e. info@islandlandscaping.com.au www.islandlandscaping.com.au Island Landscape & design.indd 1

13/8/09 7:53:37 AM

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OPEN 7 DAYS

DELIVERY 7 DAYS

D OVE R P AP OD FAA REWO FI

DELIVERY AVAILABLE TO ALL AREAS 11 Inverloch Road Wonthaggi Vic 3995

03 5672 3757 Wonthaggi Garden Supplies.indd 1

17/8/09 5:47:03 PM

ISLAND GARDEN SUPPLIES

DISPLAY GARDENS NOW OPEN Sand, Pavers, Blended Soils, Screenings, Rocks, Pebbles, Sleepers, Barks, Mulches, Path and Driveway Toppings & Mesh and Trench Reinforcement, also PHILLIP ISLAND PRE-MIXED CONCRETE. We also have a large range of beautiful Garden Ornaments and Pots.

886 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, 3925 Island Garden Supplies.indd coast 108

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Ph: 5956 7397

Fax: 5956 7929 13/8/09 9:55:23 AM

gardening feature

Compass Pools • It is strongly recommended that you consult a Swimming Pool & Spa Association approved pool builder when you are considering installing a pool.

• Even on established pools, if you are contemplating making changes to your landscaping, go back and consult your pool builder to make sure you are not adversely affecting surface water and groundwater flow surrounding the pool and its sub-structure. Better still, set up a meeting with your landscaper and pool builder so everyone is aware of the key engineering factors that need to be considered.

• If you are considering landscaping works after the pool is installed, they should be discussed in detail with your pool builder first.

Compass Pools www.compasspoolsvic.com.au or call 1300 764 270.

A backyard pool is a dream for many and Compass Pools can make this dream come true. When it comes to landscaping around your pool, they advise caution and the right approach:

before

after

THE TRADIE’S HARDWARE STORE! Specialising in industrial hardware, Loe’s supplies hire equipment, aluminium pool fencing, Stratco fencing, concrete reinforcing, power tools, safety equipment, and embroidery on all our safety clothing.

37 McKenzie Street Wonthaggi 3995 Phone 03 5672 1628 Fax 03 5672 3745 website www.loeshardware.com.au Email sales@loeshardware.com.au Loe's Hardware_v1.indd 1

13/8/09 2:40:01 PM

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Simply Blooming Gorgeous FLORIST

The Team

Coming Soon

Interflora

Special Occasion

Something for everyone

Workshops now starting , from drumming to basic flower design and much, much more.

African giftware coming soon!

Teleflora

Births

Look out for our exciting new range

Avenue Avenue

Street

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ing Gorgeou

Simply Bloom

McKenzie

Watt Street

McBride

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for viewing and for sale.

McBride

71 McBride Avenue Wonthaggi 3995 M. 0414 460 839 T. 5672 1708 F. 5672 5154 E. blooming_gorgeous@live.com Open 6 Days Mon – Fri, 9am – 5.30pm Sat, 9am – 1pm.

After hours by appointment

Photographic pieces are available

Weddings

gardening feature

one massive garden

words Rachael Millar photos Warren Reed

promotional feature

Designing gardens, pruning trees, maintaining new estates and rescuing plants from ‘garden vandals’ is all in a day’s work for Council’s Parks and Gardens team.

“We see the Shire as one big garden with lots of smaller gardens within it. Creating an attractive garden or space that people want to look at or visit is one of our main aims,” explains Council’s Parks Supervisor, Richard Clarkson.

“We take over the maintenance of new estates and subdivisions. Staff get involved in the early planning stages of the estates and work with developers to create landscapes that are attractive and can be maintained in the long term.”

“Things have changed over the past 20 years. We aim to create attractive gardens, and there are lots of factors that help us decide on the design and what we eventually plant. We have a lot more sites to look after than ever before, so it’s important that we make smart decisions.

The team recently planted a new garden at the Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre. Team members Adam Johns and Chris Lodge worked on the project, enjoying the input the team had into the design.

“Like many home gardeners we operate within water restrictions, and have to think about maintenance requirements - about whether a plant is appropriate for a certain position, and how we can use different textures and foliage colours to create something really special.”

“We are really happy with the way the garden has turned out,” says Chris.

“There is a lot of thought and planning put into what we do. We have qualified horticulturalists on staff, and their input is invaluable in the planning stages.”

Over the last five years the team has had to make difficult decisions about removing trees and looking at what sort of street trees are appropriate for each area.

“It’s great to be able to use these plants, particularly the grass trees, and combining them with the gravel has produced a great effect,” agrees Adam.

Speaking with the staff, the pride they take in their work is obvious; however, things aren’t always rosy for them.

“We work pretty hard, sometimes in the rain or searing heat, to get good results and create really attractive spaces. It is always upsetting when we complete a garden and find it vandalised soon after.

“Some of these trees were planted many years ago, and we’re discovering now that they are inappropriate in their current locations.

We’re replacing these trees and also planting new trees in streets where they haven’t been planted before.

“It’s unfortunately something that we often have to contend with.

Seeing plants ripped out, broken off or damaged is really disappointing,” says Richard.

“Over the last 12 months we have planted almost 10 000 mature plants,” says Richard.

“I think we all really enjoy what we do. We get to work outdoors in the community, and it’s our job to look after one massive garden – what more could you want?” C

As more people move to the area, the Parks and Gardens team is finding its workload increasing.

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artist profile

not a still life sian adnam Ballsy, brassy and – yes – even a little bit bossy, forget the arty-farty factor when talking with Sian Adnam. There’s nothing fey about the owner of Arty Farty Sculpture Studio in Cape Woolamai.

Hers is muscle-bound, heavy-duty, hoist-and-hump-type sculpture. Clay, wood, metal, glazes, fire, water … blokey stuff. “It’s heavy and large and it’s all hands-on, especially working with clay,” she says. “You’re down and dirty.” Hardly the medium for a girly-girl. Sian laughs: “I’ve always been a tomboy. I’m sure I should have been born with a penis, but I wasn’t.” Her nine-year-old daughter Sophie gasps … and then withers with embarrassment at her mother’s forthrightness.

The fact that Sophie was born is itself a testament to a lifechanging moment. “Fletch, my partner, and I had a surfing holiday in Sri Lanka,” she says. “Sophie was conceived somewhere around there. We didn’t expect it at all. Fletch and I had only been going out together for a year and this holiday was a way of seeing if we could stand more of being together. “I got home and felt pretty dodgy, then discovered I was pregnant. And the builder’s response?

“He disappeared for a while.”

Forty, unmarried, newly employed as an art teacher at a top Melbourne private school… and pregnant. Not ideal.

Sian continues: “Then one day I reached my turning point.

Fletch was renewing his building registration and I was waiting in the car looking out onto Jolimont Park. I was watching a girl pushing a pram. She bent down to look in the pram and whatever she was looking at … well… it rocked my world, the expression of love she had. I thought: ‘I want that’. When Fletch came back to the car I said: ‘I’m going to have this child’. And he said, ‘I‘ll support you’, then he cried.”

“As soon as I started to show, and when Sophie began moving around, he fell in love in with her.” And, more importantly, he decided to stay. “He would have walked, he says so now, but for the fact that I allowed him to be alone. I didn’t want to force him into anything.” That was Fletch. Still is.

Sian herself had never been the mothering kind. But after I gave birth to Sophie I realised there was another person I was responsible for and, no, you can’t necessarily take off and do whatever you want, as there is a little person who needs you.”

So, back to the pregnancy … and the principal of the private school. “When I told the principal, he said: ‘That’s fabulous’, but some of the older women were shocked and horrified,” Sian says, airily dismissing their reaction. “I’m a woman who holds her own when it comes to sexism.

It happens if you let it, and if you say, ‘I can’t do things because I’m female’. You can’t let it affect you.” However, she rails against the boys’ club mentality spawned of the 1970s and 1980s, especially during her years of tertiary art training in Melbourne. “I wasn’t taken seriously because I was female and a young female. And people perceived I was enjoying favouritism from above … I mean… casting couch? Me? Oh, hello?”

Being a woman had been a full-time gig for Sian. It infused her life, drove her inspiration and put form into her sculpture. “Most of my figurative stuff has been very female, big-bosomed forms. Rounded lines. Why? I don’t

words sue webster photos warren reed, hannah burrell and luzio grossi

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artist profile

I’ve learned that you should value friendship and not take yourself too seriously.

A father of four, a man who headed a company that imported truck engines, he had a secret passion for wood. “Dad built our house almost from scratch,” says Sian.

Her father-in-law then died only eight months later, also from cancer, and his legacy of woodworking tools prompted Sian to start incorporating wood into her artworks. Now she collects driftwood.

Hardware timber yards are her version of retail therapy.

She recalls: “As a kid I was always off in my little artistic world: I just wasn’t wired academically. And I was so naughty at school. But art was my saviour and I had a wonderful art teacher. She was instrumental in paving my way to art college.” Nowadays Sian is restoring the karma – working as an art teacher at a local college and inspiring a new generation of artists.

Her house and studio compound emerges out of the scrub across a rambling double block. The style is seaside vernacular spiked with artistic whimsy. The house has only been recently finished, the family moving in last April. But there was an important omission. Fletch left an unadorned 2-metre-square space on a prominent living-room wall.

“He said, ‘I want you to create a major piece for the house’. He didn’t say any more. He’s smart. He knows exactly how to tweak my buttons and push the boundaries. He’d catch me staring at that space for six months,” says Sian.

Eventually, the inspiration came, settled on the space and the square

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became a study of wood forms, including some of her father’s inherited woodworking tools. Today, the house serves as a showcase of her evolution as an artist with her past and present works and of course, her “best collaborative piece”, daughter Sophie.

Just metres away from the house, nestled amongst the coastal garden, is Sian’s studio. In this cosy venue, she conducts sculpture classes for adults and children, and the odd art soirée for the local arts community.

She is also currently working on an exhibition for 2010.

Sian’s youthful energy makes it hard to believe she’s just celebrated the big five-oh. So… what have five decades taught her? Quite a lot, it appears. “Lazy people really annoy me, and so do people who say they’re going to do something and don’t, or who are dishonest or materialistic. Trust is a big thing with me. I’ve learned that you should value friendship and not take yourself too seriously.” And don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself either, it seems. “Oh, yes,” she adds. “The feistiness that will never leave, that’s part of me.” C

For more information on Sian’s work, contact her on 0418 519 181 or www.artyfarty.com.au

Mornington Antique Centre

You name it – we’ve got it! This is the place the dealers come to buy 60,000 sq ft of antiques & bric-a-brac

Cafe Lulu open 7 days from 8am

65 Tyabb Road, Mornington Ph: 03 5977 0155 Open 7 days 10am-5pm 14/8/09 8:14:26 AM

A retreat from life.

A retreat to living.

See the Zenergie review in the WINTER edition of Coast 2009

Featured on Channel 9’s Postcards. Replay it on the website.

Mornington Antiques_v2.indd 1

This extraordinary destination invites you to get a taste for its desirability at www.zenergie.com.au (Or contact us for a brochure).

3 Luxury self-contained villas on the edge of Kongwak (10kms north of Inverloch) in an idyllic rural setting.

Panoramic views, intimate accommodation. A retreat for couples seeking peace, privacy & revitalisation.

Zenergie_v1.indd 1

But to experience its fullness and energy you really have to be there.

JUST BOOK 45 Kongwak-Inverloch Rd Kongwak Vic 3951 Ph 03 5657 4490 E. hess@zenergie.com.au

7/8/09 8:37:51 AM

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Share the crazy adventures of pioneering racers who blazed a dusty, muddy and frequently dangerous trail for today’s international superstars.

fastlane life in the

Take things at your own pace at Phillip Island’s world-famous Grand Prix Circuit. promotional feature

You’re heading down Gardner Straight into the very fast Dothan Corner, your hands firmly on the wheel, fans going crazy, the wind in your hair - you catch a glimpse of the blue ocean as you exit the technically challenging Southern Loop. This is your moment. But wait a minute - you look around, you are in your own car and the family is even along for the ride!

The world-famous Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit now offers you a self-drive experience. Due to popular demand, you can drive four spectacular laps around the track in your own vehicle. You can also take as many passengers as your car is legally allowed to carry. Imagine driving four incredible laps of the circuit under controlled conditions with the advantage of professional commentary and insights from a race driver’s perspective. It’s thrilling, but also completely safe as you are speed limited to 100kph.

If you simply want to put yourself in the hands of the professionals, you can leave your car in the car park and buckle in for the real deal an adrenalin-amping, triple-lap lightning ride around the Phillip Island circuit with an experienced racing driver in the HSV Hot Laps.

You could also choose to let rip in a go-kart on the replica Grand Prix track. Get the feeling of speed as you race around the 760-metre scale replica. Experience the same thrill as many World Champions have had as you come over the crest of Lukey Heights and into the challenging and tight Turn 10 before you blast down the shute and

into the very fast Turn 1 known as Doohan Corner! Everyone receives their own lap time printout and there are tandem karts (minimum age 5 years) for those not old enough to drive themselves.

For those who like things a little more slow-paced, follow in the footsteps of motorcycle racing champions on a Guided Circuit Tour.

You’ll be allowed exclusive access to all sorts of off-limits areas trackside, including the Control Tower, Media Centre, Pit Lane, Pit Roof and the place where every racer would love to finish – the winner’s podium, being sprayed with champagne! All with a stunning natural backdrop of some of the most breathtaking coastline on the island, with rolling hills, rugged cliffs and ocean to the horizon views.

Revisit the heart-pumping history of the venue in the Visitor Centre’s History of Motorsport display. Share the crazy adventures of pioneering racers who blazed a dusty, muddy and frequently dangerous trail for today’s international superstars. Get close to real-life examples of the sleek machines they raced, including vintage, classic and contemporary cars and bikes.

Test your skills on Australia’s largest GP slot-car track or just relax with a latte and lunch in the Champions Café and take a stroll through the tranquil water gardens. Don’t forget the Gift Shop – it’s overflowing with racing memorabilia just perfect for capturing the spirit and excitement of your experience. C

photos phillip island grand prix circuit

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feature featurearea area––san sanremo remo

sensational sanny

words sue webster photos warren reed and hannah burrell

There is no record of San Remo’s namesake ever having visited the charming seaside hamlet overlooking Western Port. The bishop Sant’Eremo di San Romolo fled his native Genoa and died in a cave in 333 A.D. This would have limited his chances of ever having watched San Remo fishermen hand-feeding the pelicans daily at noon.

Pelican-feeding is one of the tourism highlights of San Remo, the last landfall before visitors cross the bridge to Phillip Island. The bridge linking mainland to island carves a stylish curve between the two shores. On a good day, light dances off the water lying between and even makes the air glitter. And... it often is a good day in San Remo.

The open-air dining on the relaxed esplanade offers a vista across the water to the island beyond. The waterfront line of shops face north, affording stunning views. It’s easy to idle away an hour just savouring la dolce vita. Or feeding seagulls.

The magic was enough in 1888 to move early settlers to name their tiny outpost after a celebrated resort on the Italian Riviera. The Mediterranean San Remo had feted Russian tsars, Austrian empresses and the occasional cashed-up American mobster. It was also the birthplace of the Eurovision song contest ... (music-lovers of the world, weep now).

Visitors to our Australian San Remo are less glitterati and more flitterati - they come and go, starting with the inaugural white-skinned arrival.

George Bass landed in his leaky whaleboat with six brawny rowers in January 1798 and stayed 12 days to repair the vessel. Eventually, dwindling food stocks meant they had to turn their heads homewards and row back to the bright lights of Sydney Town. “We did it very reluctantly,” Dr Bass wrote. San Remo had worked its magic on its first set of tourists. There’s no risk of running out of provisions these days.

The range and quality of food befits a tourism hot-spot. From simple

take-aways to gourmet dining, Australian to international fare, San Remo hits the spot foodwise.

Fishing is something more than a pastime at San Remo. It’s a reason for existence. Dangle a line from the jetty or charter a boat. And if the fish are reluctant to bite there’s always option B - buying fresh seafood.

For a knockout view, head up the hill, past the fine coastal homes, and look back across to Phillip Island. In other parts of the world this would be Millionaire’s Row. And if you’re feeling really energetic, take yourself on the scenic six-kilometre George Bass Coastal Walk from the southern end of Punchbowl Road to Kilcunda. Tackle it in a bracing wind and you’ll truly know you’re alive.

In fact, if ever you needed proof of the benefit of a San Remo lifestyle, consider the Venerable Giorgio Baldassarre Oppezzi, a monk buried in the Italian San Remo in 1525 and whose body was later discovered to be incorrupt.

While there’s no guarantee that time spent in the Australian San Remo will confer similar benefits, women of San Remo should take heart.

Travel writer Tobias Smollett toured Italy and stayed a few days in San Remo in 1765. He wrote: “St Remo is a pretty considerable town, well-built upon the declivity of a gently rolling hill... The women of St Remo are much more handsome and better tempered than those of Provence.” The similarity with the Australian San Remo is therefore obvious... isn’t it, girls?>

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Upgrade To The Original

* Remaking fashion * trollbeads * Original one off clothing, gifts & homewares * Lalo treasures * Vintage Kokeshi * Dumpling Dynasty in store now * Inimatable style with

quirky touch

137 Marine Parade, San Remo Ph/Fax 03 5678 5944 Kudos_v6.indd 1

17/8/09 2:20:29 PM

Wrap ‘n’ Roll Cafe

This exciting business is FOR SALE! Call Tracy on 0408 785 589 Trace's Place.indd coast 120

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Open 7 Days for breakfast and lunch

where fresh is best!

Home made food, breakfast, gourmet burgers, wraps, foccacias, ice cream, coffee and much more!

144 Marine Parade, San Remo

5678 5589 12/8/09 12:34:58 PM

feature area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; san remo

A vibrant fishing village, San Remo offers it all.

Shopping, food, luxury accommodation and more, it is a perfect place to live or for your next seaside getaway.

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feature area – san remo Find holiday accommodation at Phillip Island and surrounds

www.phillipislandandsurrounds.com.au

Find holiday accommodation at Wilsons Promontory and surrounds

www.promcountry.com.au

25 places to stay.

Book online or phone the property.

In and around all Bass Coast towns on the way to the Penguins…

110 places to stay.

Book online or phone the property.

Cape Woolamai, Coronet Bay, Cowes, Grantville, Inverloch, Newhaven, San Remo, Smiths Beach and Ventnor.

In and around all South Gippsland towns on the way to the Prom…

Fish Creek, Foster, Grand Ridge, Inverloch, Korumburra, Leongatha, Meeniyan, Mirboo North, Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Sandy Point, Tarra Bulga, Toora, Venus Bay, Walkerville, Waratah Bay, Wonthaggi, Yanakie and Yarram.

Promweb_v4.indd 1

22/8/09 7:28:02 PM

Enjoy healthy eating and friendly service Offering a large diabetic, low fat, low sugar menu – Good for everyone!

Also catering for other food intolerances, such as fructose, lactose and wheat.

Delicious focaccias, soups and salads

Breads, European Pastries & Cakes, Special Occasion Cakes, Cafe Foods & Fresh Coffee Proprietors Paul & Roberta Smith 153 -155 Marine Parade, San Remo San Remo Bakehouse_v2.indd coast 122

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Tel. 5678 5862 29/7/09 9:35:59 AM

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San Remo at a Glance This delightful seaside fishing village offers a fabulous lifestyle with great shopping and services.

Aqua Inspired homewares for your dream beach house p.127 Foodworks San Remo has all your grocery and liquor needs covered and even offers free home delivery p.127 The Goldsmiths Gallery is opening soon and will offer a range of unique jewellery, repairs and commissions p.133 Kudos Gallery is a shopper’s paradise with recycled fashions, homewares, gifts and jewellery p.120 Prom Country Web Design Find quality accommodation in San Remo and

Phillip Island p.122 San Remo Bakehouse Enjoy tempting, healthy treats, European pastries and friendly service.

Special dietary requirements catered for p.122 San Remo Pharmacy Their friendly team will help you with their wide range of cosmetics and health products p.131 Silverwater Resort offers a luxury resort experience and is close to all of Phillip Island and San Remo’s attractions. p. 118.Their café, bar and restaurant Watermark @ Silverwater are open to the public p.156 Trace’s Wrap and Roll Cafe has fresh food, friendly atmosphere and great coffee 7 days a week p.120 TS Constructions is currently putting the finishing touches to a new Sanny icon, Bridgeview p.129

Nearby: Newhaven is home to Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, a world of chocolate with a museum, shop and café p.133 , Taylors Waterfront Restaurant offers dining with ocean views and accommodation p.141 , Island Garden Supplies p.108 , DK Denture Clinic p.160, Curry Leaf with authentic South African-Indian cuisine p.156 and Island Healing where you can rejuvenate and relax p.158 Lisa Kane in Cape Woolamai offers quality hair and make up for any occasion p.131.

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Our mission is to provide quality, accessible, responsive community and primary health care services. Our vision is for all Bass Coast community members to achieve better health outcomes.

We focus on promoting health and preventing illness for individuals with a range of health care needs. This includes those who are frail, aged, youth, adults, children and people with a disability or mental illness.

Services include: Nursing, Allied Health, self help

1 Back Beach Road,

OTHER LOCATIONS:

SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE

support groups, community services, child, youth

San Remo 3925.

81 Chapel Street, Cowes.

AT COMMUNITY VENUES IN:

and family services, drug & alcohol support,

T 03 5671 9200

T 03 5671 9200

Inverloch, Grantville, Corinella

diabetic supplies, medical equipment hire, baby

F 03 5678 5595

Cnr Watt & Billson Streets,

and home visiting

capsule hire and emergency relief assistance.

www.bcchs.com.au

Wonthaggi. T 03 5671 3500

ACN 136 473 660

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coast hero

words & photos maria reed

a healing journey Suffering a stroke at only 28 took Melissa Van Rennes on a healing journey, and she is now in a position to give back to others tenfold…

Sitting in the waiting room of the Bass Coast Community Health Service, I overhear a conversation between a young lady and her grandmother. “How is the big fella?” asks the nanna with concern.

“He’s okay now, but he had to be operated on. Ate a whole corncob and had to have surgery. He’s known for being a guts and he’ll eat just about anything! It could have been life-threatening, but we’ll just have to keep the corn hidden from now on,” she laughs. With a beaming smile, she turns to me and introduces herself as Melissa

Van Rennes, CEO of the Bass Coast Community Health Service.

I ask how ‘the patient’ is now, and she lets me in on a little secret.

The patient was her young Labrador, and the grandmother (not her grandma) is a regular patron of the community health service.

Such is the life of this local CEO. Melissa is just as comfortable catching up for a quick chat with a local as she is campaigning for better community health services . . . and she is a much-loved part of her community.>

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My passion is to see this organisation grow with the community, and to help others as it has helped me.

Melissa moved from Melbourne to the Bass coast over 12 years ago for health reasons, and has never looked back. “I just fell in love with the place. My son was three at the time and we enrolled him in the local playgroup and kinder. We saw the education he was getting away from the city – from going to the beach to learn about marine life to farms where he learnt about the cycles of life – it was just ideal . . . a perfect life for him.” The whole family became heavily involved in their local community, and Melissa laughs, “There’s no way I’d go back now.

We’ve been here almost 13 years, so I’m not quite a local yet . . . but I’m on my way there!”

The family settled in quickly, with Melissa doing “the motherly thing”.

She became involved in lots of local committees and community groups – and her health improved as a result. She was working as a residential manager at a local hotel when the unimaginable happened.

At 28, she suffered a stroke brought on by an aneurism (a bleed on the brain). “I was very young and it came as a big shock . . . it was very unexpected.” She suffered another stroke within a two-year period, “so that was the start of my career in health, I suppose,” she smiles.

The young mum of a healthy three-year-old was left partially paralysed on the right side of her body and temporarily confined to a wheelchair.

“The prognosis wasn’t good. I was told I may never be able to walk properly or work again – that there were no guarantees. If I didn’t have a strong support network around me I could have quite easily fallen into depression.” Her doctors put her in contact with the local health services – and the help she received “was better than I could have hoped for back in the city.” Full of grit and determination, Melissa’s mission was to get back on her feet. “I don’t like being told what is possible and what isn’t, so I thought I just have to get along and do what has to be done.”

She was directed to the Bass Coast Community Health Service where she met a passionate and committed team. “When they came out to see me, they could see that I had the motivation not to accept this situation. They arranged a great support network for me. My friends got together to help me do physio and complete exercises, and home care was provided. I have to say I would have been lost without their support.”

It was during her physio and recovery that Melissa started volunteering with the Health Service. With a passion for youth, she joined the Maternal Child Health Team. With a love of learning, and wanting to improve her situation, she threw herself into the role. “I was told not to have unrealistic expectations of myself in terms of what I could do after the stroke, but that sort of drove me on even more.” With a background in human resources and finance she jumped at the chance when she saw a job advertised within the organisation. “I applied for a position in corporate services doing data processing . . . and I got it.” Though it was just a part-time position, she was always up for a challenge. “The CEO at the time was great, and gave me a lot of freedom to use my skills and improve processes and systems– and the team was wonderful. I’ve

basically moved forward from there.” She became the team leader of corporate services, and then went on to become the manager. Seven years on she is the passionate CEO of the same health service that, she enthuses, “just about saved my life.” She is justifiably proud of herself.

As the current CEO of the Bass Coast Community Health Service, Melissa is determined to help her local community as it has helped her, and make people aware of the options it provides. “Our goal is to improve health services in the region. We’ve had a lot of community consultation, and some of the key things that have come out of that are what we already knew: we need to improve health services, and we need to highlight the importance of community health. We are not a hospital - we provide different services, and we’re trying to promote awareness of what we do. We basically cover everything from birth to passing. We provide clinical and district nursing, maternal child health, community services, Drug & Alcohol support, all the way through to aged care and palliative services. We work in partnership with the local hospital to try to keep people out of hospital by promoting good health through preventative programs. We can also help people for whom hospital treatment is necessary by providing education, care and support when they return home. We want people to take responsibility for their own health. I didn’t. I kept pushing myself and chose to ignore my health issues, and I suffered the consequences.”

Noticing a significant gap in the health service, Melissa is committed to improving the youth focus of their organisation. “We want to establish a youth-supported accommodation program within our community, so we can equip young people with health and living skills, not only for them, but also their families. We need to reach the people out there who are not getting the assistance and support they need. We receive limited funding so we try to work within those funds in the best way we can.” Community and corporate donations are always welcomed, and assist the service in extending its services. “We have our op shop but the overheads of running it (and being a not-for-profit organisation) makes the whole process quite expensive.” It is clear the organisation requires larger facilities to extend its services, “but that is going to take time and funding. We’ve already pretty much outgrown our facilities here.”

With outreach programs to service the more remote areas, transport is always a big issue. “We have 91 volunteers, and if we didn’t have them, we wouldn’t be able to continue the level of services we provide now.

They are just fantastic.” The shire has provided a vehicle on loan to assist in the Volunteer Transport Program but with growing community demand they really need another vehicle.

“My passion is to see this organisation grow with the community, and to help others as it has helped me. We’ve been here for 30 years, we’re strong, and we just need to get our message out there. Many services are provided free or at a small charge. Sometimes things can be tight, even for working families, and it’s part of our philosophy that we never say no to anybody. We’re here to help.” C

If you would like to find out more about the Bass Coast Community Health Service, or want to volunteer, make a donation or bequest, please call Reception 03 5671 9200 coast 126

feature area – san remo

FoodWorks

San Remo

Your local Community

Supermarket

• Instore butchers • Fruit and veg • Deli department • Liquor department and a large range of grocery...

• We also offer free home delivery

FoodWorks San Remo 135 Marine Parade, San Remo Vic. 3925 Phone 5678 5337 Fax 5678 5756

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With three front row penthouses still available for purchase, each with stunning views of the ever-changing sea and sky, plus one, two and three bedroom apartments also available, there is a range of living options to be snapped up.

San Remo has all the facilities needed for modern living encapsulated in a small, seaside village feel. Natural pursuits such as water sports and nature discoveries can be combined with the excitement of the Grand Prix Circuit and helicopter rides, making the choice between enjoying a relaxing time in your apartment and exploring a dynamic region very difficult.

The commercial area will feature a café, fashion outlets and a goldsmith and jeweller. A very limited number of freehold premises are still available, as well leasehold options. The retail area will be released before Christmas, giving all tenants and owners the opportunity of maximising returns over the prime trading months.

The agents-in-conjunction for all sales and leasing enquiries are Alex Scott & Staff (03 5952 2633), Judith Wright Real Estate (03 5952 5100) and The Professionals (03 5678 5141). A fully-furnished display suite is available for viewing. Please contact an agent to make an appointment.

To discover more about this project visit www.sanremobridgeview.com.au.

For information about the builder or to enquire about any other project, please call TS Constructions on 03 5672 2466 or visit www.tsconstructions.com.au C

“Shaping the Built Environment” 03 5672 2466

PO Box 267 Wonthaggi 3995

www.tsconstructions.com.au admin@tsconstructions.com.au TS Constructions advert_V1.indd 1

19/8/09 3:53:12 PM

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aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith & Gaby McCrae.

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Lisa Kane hair and makeup artist 0419 382 101

Film | Television | Fashion | Advertising | Wedding | Special Occasion h a i rd re s s i n g a n d m a k e u p a t h o m e s t u d i o o r o n l o c a t i o n Astre_v1.indd 1

18/8/09 1:39:01 PM

LIPFINITY

LONG LIVE COLOUR Vibrant lip colour with serious staying power, means no need for touch up’s on your wedding day.

Armed with Max Factor’s famous Lipfinity you can have a glamorous finish for up to 12 hours.

Available at

San Remo Pharmacy 123 Marine Parade San Remo

Ph:03 5678 5202 Fax:03 5678 5376

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aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith & Gaby McCrae.

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The

oldsmith’s allery

Coming soon to San Remo!

Opening December 2009 Unique Jewellery | Commissions | Repairs | Resets | Rethreading Shop 3, 157-159 Bridgeview Arcade, Marine Parade, San Remo www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au Proudly supporting the Gold and Silversmiths Guild of Australia & Australian Makers of Contemporary and Traditional Jewellery and Art. Goldsmiths Gallery_v3.indd 1

17/8/09 9:03:23 AM

Panny’s amazing world of chocolates will excite and amaze Phillip Island Chocolate factory is located opposite the tourist information centre on Phillip Island Road in Newhaven.

• Delectable chocolates hand made on the premises • Light lunches including Panny’s famous curries • Great coffee and hot chocolate • Friendly service

PHILLIP ISLAND CHOCOLATE FACTORY, 930 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au PI Chocolate Factory_v1.indd 1

03 5956 6600 4/8/09 2:20:42 PM

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Phillip Island RSL

Shioni’s @ Kaloha Restaurant

The Puzzle Cafe

RACV Resort

Silverleaves Store

Tomo Japanese

Red Elk Bar & Cafe

Taylors Waterfront

Traces Wrap & Roll Cafe

Cnr Cowes Rhyll Rd & Thompson Ave Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 1004

70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Road, Inverloch Phone 5674 0000 Spectacular views

27 A’Beckett Street, Inverloch Phone 5674 3264 Hip cafe/bar

Cnr Steele & Chapel Streets Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 6969 Family friendly with an asian flavor

Cnr Sanders Rd & Honeysuckle Gve, Silverleaves Phone 5952 1110 Breakfast, lunch, provisions

1215 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Phillip Island Phone 5956 7371 Seafood a speciality

1805 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 2283 At Amaze’n’things - food & fun

23 A’Beckett St Inverloch Phone 5674 3444 Modern Japanese

144 Marine Parade San Remo Phone 567 8589 Wraps, rolls & coffee

Sandsford Antiques

The Esplanade Hotel

Vela Nine

San Remo Bakehouse

The Gilded Lily

Watermark @ Silverwater Resort

13 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Phone 5674 3339 Antiques & cosy cafe

153 - 155 Marine Parade San Remo Phone 5678 5862 Pastries, treats & coffee

Sherwoods Restaurant 5 Thompson Avenue Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 3773 Elegant casual dining

1 A’Beckett St Inverloch Phone 03 5674 1432 Delicious meals

35 Victoria Rd Loch, Victoria Phone 03 5659 4488 Intimate dining, modern menu

The Nobbies

Nobbies Centre Phillip Island Phone 03 5951 2816 Ocean view cafe & functions

9 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Phone 5674 1188 Restaurant & Wine Bar

Corner Phillip Island Tourist Rd & Potters Hill Road, San Remo Phone 5671 9300 Contemporary dining

Wonthaggi Club 16 McBride Avenue Wonthaggi, Victoria Phone 5672 1007 Modern menu & functions

Let’s eat! coast 135

The Killy Pub & Meikles Ocean View Bistro

“Providing a quality product with

attentive service and total commitment

to your catering needs”

now operating with

Sarah Ashe catering

• Stunning ocean views • Family friendly • Beer garden •70 seater marquee • Delicious meals • Bookings recommended on w/e • Specialising in fresh local seafood & Gippsland beef • Extensive range of specials

www.killypub.com.au Bass Hwy, Kilcunda Bar 56787245 Bistro 56787011 Ocean View Hotel.indd 1

31/7/09 11:47:05 AM

Fantastic Sports Bar and Entertainment venue: Juke box or live music, TAB and Pool table. Thirsty Camel Bottleshop and Drive Through. Tabaret, friendly staff and great service. Modern Bistro, open 7 days, Alfresco dining, new spring menu with seniors meals available, breakfast every Sunday 8.30 –11.30. Try our Sunday night Buffet from 6pm, a great selection of dishes to tantaslise your tastebuds Esplanade Hotel_v6.indd coast 136

www.sarahashe.com.au Enquiries 5672 1216

1

Opening November: Captain’s Lounge a fantastic new venue for weddings, 21st parties, corporate functions and a great dining experience: upstairs at the Espy!!

1 A’Beckett St Inverloch

03 5674 1432 23/8/09 7:34:25 PM

dineout

Rob recently surprised Brigitte with a trip to Italy, “making her dream come true”. “I sold five artworks and went straight down and bought the tickets,” says Rob. They have now completed three stages of their master plan for the gallery, and work has commenced on stages four and five - a Japanese garden, and a Roman garden with a wood-fired pizza oven, reflecting the spirituality of Japan and the romance of Italy. Then, the dream extends to their own home with studio and a “little place” in Italy where Rob can showcase the excellence of Australian produce with the tradition of Italian food.

“It’s been a wonderful five-year journey together,” says Brigitte of their relationship.

“We have followed our dream and people have latched on with us. When we met, the band Keane had a song ‘A Place Only We Know’. We’d just listen to the song and block the world out. We want this space to be like that for people - a place to just relax and forget about life’s problems and worries.” C

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#MBLF 4U .PSOJOHUPO 0QFO BN QN EBJMZ

SHERWOODS

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17/8/09 2:56:24 PM

elegant casual dining

Upstairs function room with beer garden.

Early Bird specials Ask about our table for 20 Sunday wood ďŹ red roasts Open 5 nights and Sunday lunch

5952 3773 Sherwoods_v1.indd 1

Restaurant

Perfect for small weddings, conferences, birthday parties, club functions, and Christmas break ups.

Catering for all budgets

Bookings preferred, call Eddie & Karen Sherwood

|

5 Thompson Ave Cowes

|

sherwoodrestaurant@bigpond.com 17/8/09 10:17:34 AM

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Spring in the vineyard

Spring is an invigorating and uplifting time to be getting around vineyards. Vines stir, buds - hard and seemingly dead - swell and become woolly cocoons from which green tips emerge, then rapidly develop into leaf balls and unfold into individual leaves. Shoots grow, then more leaves appear, followed by tiny inflorescences - immature flower bunches. By mid spring we have rows full of yellow-green life and promise.

Up until this point the vines have been running on reserves - nutrient stores tucked away by the vine last season. From this point, the vine captures more energy than it burns and growth becomes ‘explosive’ - the ‘grand flush’ of late spring and early summer.

But the magic of it all is that this process is an echo of times past. Last summer the vine formed these buds (only a few millimetres in size) and within each bud it made tiny immature shoots, leaves and flower bunches. The potential crop for the coming year has been set by the vine last summer - the number of bunches on each shoot and the potential number of grapes on each bunch have been set last year - determined by the health of the vine and the weather conditions at that time.

Life goes on: the cycle of the seasons is projected backward and forward through the vine. Spring in the vineyard is a good time.

words rick lacey photo warren reed

While you are pondering all of this, it’s worth having a look at the new wines of spring - the fresh 2009 whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Unwooded Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris/Grigio. The freshlyreleased whites are full of fruit and zingy freshness. They go really well with spring foods (salads, seafood, chicken, white mould cheeses) and the festivities of the Spring Carnival season. On the red front, moving from winter fare to more summery dishes gives new opportunities to enjoy lighter reds - something this part of the world excels in - and in particular Pinot Noir. A duck salad with a good glass of Pinot - takes a lot of beating on a spring day. C

“The beginning of something beautiful”

Veraison Restaurant Now Open open lunch Thur-Mon 11am - 5pm 269 Myers Road, Balnarring 3926 Restaurant: 03 5989 7081 Cellar: 03 5989 7055 www.bluestonelane.com.au BlueStoneLane_v3.indd coast 140

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6/8/09 7:53:31 AM

Spectacular Ocean Views Day and night. Open for Dinner 7 days a week. Fully licensed.

Lunches Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, Before & after penguins, Childrens menu, Special events, Weddings & functions, Boutique hotel suites with ocean views. BOOK NOW for your Christmas party!

1215 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Phillip Island

p. 03 5956 7371

Taylor's Restaurant_hp.indd 1

Email: restaurant@waterfront.net.au 23/8/09 7:40:09 PM

Restaurant & Wine Bar Thurs - Mon, 12 noon - 11pm Open Lunch and Dinner Extended Summer Hours

(03) 5674 1188 www.velanine.com.au 9 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Beckett St Inverloch 3996 VelaNine_v2.indd 1

5/8/09 2:38:29 PM

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my favoriterecipe Twice-Cooked Pork Belly, Sweet Potato Galette & Nashi Pear Salad

UKQN DKOPO $=NNAJ =J@ #=NKH

Originally from Ireland, chef William McLean loves the coastal life at San Remo. He joined the team at Watermark@Silverwater Resort after cooking up a storm in the UK and New Zealand. He enjoys the changing seasons and using fresh produce. His kids are also loving the space to run free…

Twice-Cooked Pork Belly 1x pork-belly bone 3 red chillies 3 kaffir lime leaves 3 stalks lemon grass – top 1/3 removed 1 large knob ginger – peeled 6 cloves of garlic – peeled 3 spring onions (white section only) 3 limes

2 oranges 300ml light Thai soy sauce 6 cloves 3 star anise 1 cinnamon quill 2 tbsp coriander seed 2 tbsp fennel feed 1 tbsp cumin seed 2 tbsp Sichuan pepper

Bruise chillies, lime leaves, lemon grass, ginger and garlic in a mortar & pestle. Slice the spring onion; juice & slice the orange & lime. Add to a deep, flat heatproof tray. Toast all dry spices until fragrant; pound in a mortar & pestle. Add the fresh spices & soy sauce; mix well. Place the pork-belly on top & massage the marinade into the flesh. Cover with plastic wrap & leave in the marinade skin-side up overnight. Next day: clean the belly, reserving the marinade in the tray. Place the pork-belly skin-side up on a cooling rack. Place two ovenproof bowls 4cm – 5cm high in the dish(this is to keep the pork belly from sitting in the marinade). Place the cooling rack with the pork belly on its back in tray. Top up with water until just under the rack. Cover with greaseproof paper & wrap tightly with aluminium foil. Gently steam on top of the stove for three hours. Allow to cool slightly, then remove the bones & cartilage. Score skin & sprinkle with a generous amount of sea salt. Allow to crisp under a very low grill. Lightly press to create a flat skin surface. Allow to cool overnight before portioning.

Reheat skin-side down until golden

Sweet Potato Galette 3 large sweet potatoes 1 large brown onion chicken stock

Peel & thinly slice the onion. Melt some butter & vegetable oil in a heavybased pot & slowly cook the onion. While the onion is cooking, peel & slice the sweet potato & warm the chicken stock. Cook the onion until it has caramelised - it should be very soft & sweet. Layer sweet potato & onion in ovenproof dish, seasoning each layer; fill ¾ with stock. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until potatoes are soft. Cool for 10 minutes before serving

Nashi Pear Salad mixed lettuce leaves diced red onion diced tomatoes sliced Nashi pear vinaigrette

Toss all the ingredients in a bowl C

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The Island’s best kept secret!

Fully licensed separate bar plus indoor and outdoor dining. Delicious cocktails, International cuisine, tapas and kids menu available. Discounts for tour bookings and seniors groups. Also catering for weddings, small functions and business luncheons.

PUBLIC MOST WELCOME Cnr Steele & Chapel Streets, Cowes (5 minute walk to main street and beach) Email: shioniskaloha@bigpond.com

Ph: 5952 6969 Shioni's_v1.indd 1

29/7/09 7:49:15 AM

With comfortable modern surrounds and a fantastic range of entertainment options, the Phillip Island RSL is the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite meeting place.

Whether its coffee with friends, dinner with family or a special occasion, our friendly staff and great menu make every visit memorable!

Phillip Island RSL

Open 7 days â&#x20AC;˘ For the benefit of members and guests The ANZAC Room is ideal for weddings, engagements, birthdays, corporate dinners, and conferences. Our boardroom facilities also accommodate smaller training groups or conferences, and the Lone Pine Bistro is ideal for smaller functions and social events.

Visit our website for more information, including upcoming events!

Cnr Cowes Rhyll Rd & Thompson Ave, Cowes, Vic. 3922 Phillip Island RSL_v2.indd 1

www.pirsl.com.au Tel. (03) 5952 1004 17/8/09 1:06:17 PM

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Silverleaves Store holiday & Short break specialists…

Getaway Phillip Island invites you to relax, indulge and enjoy.

Getaway Phillip Island can book a variety of accommodation from luxurious beachfront houses, to cozy beach shacks. Whether your ideal getaway is a traditional bed and breakfast, romantic cottage, an apartment or a group stay such as the GP or a Girl’s Weekend, we provide a great range of quality accommodation and location.

0409 521 825

www.phillipislandgetaway.com.au

Fabulous food, coffee & wine all day

Discover our Licensed cafe, Gourmet provisions, Gippsland wines, & cellar door sales Cnr Sanders Road & Honeysuckle Grove ,Silverleaves Phillip Island 03 5952 1110 www.phillipislandgetaway.com.au

silverleavesstorenew6.indd 1

23/8/09 7:48:46 PM

1Q=HEPU OA=BKK@ >U PDA OA= • Quality seafood in a relaxing bar and café atmosphere • Fully licensed with three beers on tap - local and Australian wines • Live music most Friday and Saturday nights • ‘Pot ‘N Parma’ nights weekdays • Friday Night ‘Happy Hour’ from 4 to 7 pm

127-129 Jupiter Boulevard Venus Bay Telephone: 5663 7100 The fishing village_v1.indd coast 144

1

Email: info@venusbayrestaurant.com.au Website: www.venusbayrestaurant.com.au 17/8/09 2:58:01 PM

Stockdale & Leggo Let us introduce the new faces of Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island!

Welcome to Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island.

Stockdale & Leggo and Foxsocks have combined their services to now offer clients of Phillip Island a new real estate super service.

With the two offices combining, Stockdale & Leggo now have the largest & most experienced, qualified real estate team in the Bass Coast region!!!

Stockdale & Leggo will now have two offices prominently displayed in the main street of Cowes - one dedicated to Sales, and the other dedicated to Permanent, Holiday & Commercial rentals.

Not only will the merge provide customers with more real estate professionals working for them, but ultimately, it will ensure that our standard of service within the real estate industry is second to none!

Rod Patch – Director Stockdale & Leggo With Client satisfaction & Customer service being the focus of this team, & with a network of more than 90 Offices across Australia, Stockdale & Leggo warmly welcome all of your real Josie Duggan – Sales Manager

Helen Foote – Rental Department Manager

“It’s an exciting time combining the strengths of two of the island’s best agents and providing our customers with the biggest sales team in the area. I look forward to the amazing results we are going to achieve.”

“By combining the two offices, we will be able to offer double what we have in the past! More team members, more knowledge and more time to service our clients.”

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estate enquiries.

Sales Office

Rental Office

48 Thompson Avenue Cowes T 03 5952 5899 www.phillipislandre.com.au

52 Thompson Avenue Cowes T 03 5952 6633

lifestyle review

a sheila’s castle

words sally o’neill and hannah burrell photos luzio grossi and gabriella mcrae

Calling on both their British and Aussie backgrounds, Inverloch couple Helen and Brian Victorsen have created their dream home.

When they moved back to Victoria for work four years ago, the couple could not find a house that they truly loved. After much searching, and swearing that “they’d never build again”, they purchased a block and appointed Melbourne-based architect Peter Jackson. “The plans started out totally different from what we wanted,” says Helen. “Brian’s stride is bigger than mine, so some measurements changed,” she says sheepishly, as all changes were in the upward direction! “Peter Jackson exceeded all of our expectations with the design, and then Helen was appointed ‘site supervisor’,” says Brian with twinkle in his eye.

Local builder Eric van Agtmaal took on the role of builder. Eric is based in Wonthaggi and personally works on every project with his team of two. “I am very hands-on,” says Eric, “so you work with the builder, not just a supervisor.” He describes the house as “a very nice home, in line with Helen’s English heritage” and “typical of what he and his team can do”. So, it was “Eric and his merry men” building, with Helen taking charge of decisions about interior finishes and fittings. “Brian is a typical man: he just said ‘Which ever you like, love’. My Ford Focus was packed full of samples,” recalls Helen. “I probably drove Brian mad and I nearly had a nervous breakdown.” The process took just over 12 months. The Ford Focus was again packed to the roof racks as Helen tried to move everything in before Christmas. “I had the family coming to stay for the Christmas break,” she recalls.

Shaped almost “like a butterfly,” the house is constructed of sandstonestyle bricks and stretches across the long, wide block to create a stylish

and functional home. Totalling “about 36 squares” - including an extralarge garage requested by Brian - the house has three good-sized bedrooms and a study which can easily convert to a fourth bedroom.

The kitchen is the heart of the spacious house and also proof that Helen played a major role in the design process. “I call it my control deck. From here I can see the study through to the lounge room,” she says, sweeping her hand in an arc. “I can see everything going on from the kitchen. I can be cooking, watching TV, checking my emails - and of course keeping an eye on Brian and our beloved dog, Lilly”. In fact, Lilly and the certainty that “we will always have dogs” have dictated a lot of the interior finishes: there are easy-clean tiles throughout.

Helen loves the light in Australia, and the house is light-filled and breezy.

The interior fittings are stylish and simple, matching the harmonious nature of the design. Helen chose to use the same fittings and features throughout the house to create a seamless flow. The colour scheme is neutral and clean. “I’m a beige person - hopefully not a boring beige person,” says Helen. “I started with the tiles and went from there.” Helen used local suppliers to create the final finish she and Brian love.

Their favourite room is the dining-room, which houses some sentimental items including the dining table they could “never part with”. “I went over to the UK 34 years ago and came back with a souvenir,” jokes Brian. That souvenir was Helen. They started from scratch, and the crystal cabinet in the window was the first piece of furniture they bought “with saved-up twenty cent pieces” when first married. >

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lifestyle review

Their favourite spot is the cosy little nook in the dining-room where “we sit in our chairs and decide the order of the day”.

The under-floor heating and gas log fire keep the house cosy and warm in the winter, and the reverse-cycle unit rarely needs to be used in the summer as the large verandahs ensure “ a beautiful, consistent temperature”. The wide verandahs are Helen’s tribute to the Australian vernacular, gracing the house with a lovely combination of their Australian and English heritages.

Outside, the garden is being established around Brian’s substantial entertaining area. “I love people sitting around the table, and the servery out to the bbq area,” says Brian of his kingdom. Helen points out a delicate banksia plant that she was given “when I became a sheila,” she jokes, talking about when she gained Australian citizenship!.“Some of our young friends think the house is like a castle and have dubbed us Queen Helen and King Brian,” laughs Helen.

It seems this Aussie “sheila” and her hubby are happy in a home which is truly their ‘castle’. C

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AWARD WINNING DESIGNER Building Designers Association of Victoria 2008 Award Winner: Residential Design - New Homes up to $300k Construction Cost.

turning concepts into reality 79 Watt Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995 ph. 03 56725196 m. 0409933771 abeaumont@iprimus.com.au

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

Beaumont concepts_v2.indd 1

23/8/09 7:29:51 PM

Eric Van Agtmaal

Builder

Wonthaggi eric.vanagtmaal@bigpond.com

Eric Van Agtmaal.indd 1

no job too big or small specialising in pergolas & decking

B.P No DB -U 6131

03 5672 3590 0417 584 273 14/8/09 10:29:32 AM

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live and earn

away from the rat-race

promotional feature

Allen and Kaz know all about taking the “lifestyle” plunge ...and now they are bringing others to their corner of South Gippland through their country real estate business...

It was a hankering and a yearning for some space and a change of pace that led Kaz Hughes and Allen Bartlett to South Gippsland. So they packed up the kids, dogs and pony, bought an old farm house and headed south nearly three years ago.

coast 150

Vaguely expecting careers and money-earning to be a thing of the past, it wasn’t long before they realised that their real estate marketing backgrounds and own “tree changer” experiences would carve them a niche in their own country real estate business!

“We really understand what people are searching for when they embark on their journey away from the rat race”, said Kaz. “So our advertising largely focuses on the lifestyles people want.

We also know from our own experiences that people moving from the cities are used to a higher level of service, and to be able to “shop” weekends. We give them all of that. Our website is also designed to help, with local schools, councils, events and towns able to be researched before they even get here.

According to Kaz, lifestyle properties that offer both an income stream and a residence, are great for the “40’s-plus” tree changers who don’t want to waste time creating anew, but who do possess the energy and drive needed to run a successful business.

The historic Port Albert General Store, presently run as a café and gallery, with a rear residence is one opportunity for a “live & earn” lifestyle. Port Albert, with its stunning fishing village atmosphere, new holiday cottages and cafés, is an idyllic and affordable location to make the sea change.

Robyn and Owen Schmidt, proprietors of Lyre Bird Hill estate in Koonwarra, say they’ve had 20 good years earning a living from their self-made lifestyle property. Planning to stay local after they sell, their estate offers the chance to grow and make wine, or run a B&B, or both. Owen, a former accountant, says he’d be happy to coach new owners in the science and art of wine making, while Robyn, a caterer, will introduce them to other local tourist operators, clients and suppliers!

Lynley Hill Olives in Nerrena, more low key, has more than 700 already-established olive trees, and enormous potential to maximize the crop with a boutique olive business “on the side”.

In a tranquil setting within easy striking distance of beaches and the Prom, it can be as busy or laid back as you like.

Visit www.promcountryre.com.au to learn about these lifestyle opportunities, or better still, make the trip to Meeniyan and see what lifestyle Allen and Kaz can find for you.

Quality from start to finish With over 50 years experience, the team at New Dimension Homes bring a vast knowledge of building affordable quality homes that suit all tastes and requirements. We will deliver your new home on time and on budget. With a large range of designs, we can adapt to suit your individual needs. New Dimension Homes can deliver the home of your dreams. Quality design, workmanship and materials go a long way toward achieving a house that you, the home owner and the builder, can both be proud of.

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coast 153

Quality accommodation

QUEST Phillip Island

we spend so much time making our advertisers look good . . .

Located in the vibrant, holiday township of Cowes, Quest Phillip Island is a short stroll to local shops, restaurants and beaches and within a short travelling distance to Phillip Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many attractions including the Penguin Parade, surf beaches and Grand Prix Circuit.

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Quest Oceanic features one, two and three bedroom, fully self contained apartments.

The apartments feature quality furnishings

and fittings, dvd players, stereos, full kitchen, laundry facilities with large balconies and onsite under cover secure parking for one car.

Phone: 03 5952 2644

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if you want your business to

look great in print & online call our sales team at coast magazine to advertise

0432 273 107 ads@coastmagazine.net www.coastmagazine.net

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modern menu, intimate & cosy dining, private rooms for group bookings.

www.gildedlily.com.au

tomo & joh 23 A’Beckett St Inverloch 3996

Dinner : Thu – Sat 6pm til late Lunch : Sun 12 – 2.30 Other times by arrangement

35 Victoria St Loch

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p 5674 3444

p. 5659 4488

10/8/09 5:00:42 PM

Brilliant coffee Delicious fresh food Fully licensed Awesome cocktails Fabulous outdoor deck

Open seven days for breakfast and lunch Dinner Friday and Saturday in Winter Wednesday to Sunday in Summer 27 A’Beckett Street Inverloch E redelk@aapt.net.au T 5674 3264

Hard Loch.indd 1

17/8/09 10:07:59 Red Elk.indd AM 1

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6/8/09 8:48:37 AM

www.coastmagazine.net

Red Elk Bar & Cafe

Vineyard & Winery 96 McFees Road Rhyll Phillip Island Hours: 11am – 5:30pm School Holidays & Summer – 7 days a week Other times: Thursday to Monday plus public holidays Phone: 5956 9244

www.purplehenwines.com.au

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10/8/09 1:22:24 PM

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Local fresh produce with seafood straight from the boat, slow cooked winter foods and in house bakery. Accommodation now available.

Take Away or enjoy a night out in our country courtyard dining huts under the stars

Waterfront dining with panoramic bay views

licensed and BYO . All Halal food available . all cards accepted Curry Leaf Takeaway Phone 5956 6772 Shop 9 Vista Place Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island

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Curry Leaf.indd 1

17 The Esplanade Cowes, Vic.

31/7/09 1:45:26 Harrys_v4.indd PM 1

Ph (03) 5952 6226 11/8/09 11:56:50 AM

Style for all ages at an affordable price

\

Emily Flutterbys all things deliciously shabby

Stocking • Threadz • Cordelia St • Eversun • AJoy • Jendi Clothing • Tre Bliss Denim • Bassoni Lingerie • Voodoo Hosiery • Roc Eyewear • 2Sea Swimwear

coast directory

KARMELLA FASHIONS

JAPANESE MOMIJI DOLLS Inside each momiji doll there’s a tiny folded card for your own secret message

Sizes 8 - 20

å Shop from home

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Bags and accessories also available

46 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi

handmade quilts pamper packs enamel wares

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oriental chic french shabby luscious gifts

deliciouslyshabby@emilyflutterbys.com

mail@karmellafashions.com.au 5672 5775 Mon - Sat

Karmella_v2.indd 1

www.emilyflutterbys.com

14/8/09 1:20:39 EmilyPM Flutterbys.indd 1

L&J TUDDIN restorations

7/8/09 1:42:02 PM

ANTIQUE & DECOR GALLERY A NT I Q U E S / / A RT I F A CT S / / D E C O R / / B E A D S

NEW 2009 DESIGNS! Plates by

Shop 2, IGA Ritchies Arcade, 158 Graham Street, Wonthaggi

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SHOP ONLINE! T: 5672 5553

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

7/8/09 4:51:29 L&J Tuddin_v4.indd PM 1

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31/7/09 1:10:37 PM

www.coastmagazine.net

Open: Monday-Friday 10.00- 5.30, Saturday 9.30-1.30

RESTORED FURNITURE FROM EUROPE & CHINA Over 20 years experience. Private restoration available. Antiques to contemporary.

The Antique gallery is located between the Inverloch Motel and Inverloch Nursery. Open Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. Public & School Holidays or by appointment.

island healing health spa phillip island

6 Forrest Avenue, Newhaven, Phillip Island

5956 7886

www.islandhealing.com.au

Currently seeking senior stylists & staff

Do you have...

• • • •

back, neck or muscle pain? accident or sporting injuries? headaches? stress?

then you can benefit from...

• the bowen technique • remedial, relaxation, deep tissue, aromatherapy, western cupping, hot stone and pregnancy massage • acupuncture & chinese herbal medicine • reiki, seichim, ear candling • pilates, circuits, boxing, boot camp & personal training • mature age fitness classes • naturopathy • facials

Reiki, seichim, ear candling and relaxation massage with Annie B.

Island healing.indd 1

7/8/09 11:49:14 Jeminy.indd AM 1

11/8/09 3:34:50 PM

Helping families in South Gippsland by using the best of Eastern and Western natural medicine

Leongatha Natural Medicine Centre Wonthaggi Natural Medicine Centre

John Gemmill -

Acupuncturist - (Registered CMRB) Naturopath (including herbs and iridology) Bowen Therapist Phone 5672 2692 or 5662 5644

Louise Norton -

Acupuncturist - (Registered CMRB) General health & fertility management, natal care Phone 0409 166 924

Morgan Wayaani - Kinesiologist, Chinese Masseur, Massage Therapy Phone 0403 853 141

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John Gemmill.indd 1

Darren George Hair 6-14 The Esplanade, Cowes Phone 03 5952 2647

5/8/09 3:33:37 Darren PM George Hair_V4.indd 1

19/8/09 2:18:29 PM

coast directory

gecko

studio gallery

15 Falls Road Fish Creek 03 5683 2481 0423 721 593 0421 209 878 furniture, objects and paintings created on site original pieces and occasional exhibitions by selected artists

andrew mcpherson gallery workshop 5 Falls Road, Fish Creek T 56832661 M 0417370596 E andrew@ridethewildgoat.com.au W ridethewildgoat.com.au hours 10:30-4:30 friday-monday

custom framing, original artworks, select art materials, cards & decorated tiles email: framing@geckostudiogallery.com.au www.geckostudiogallery.com.au opening times thurs-mon 10am-5pm Kerry Spokes & Michael Lester

Ride the wild goat.indd 1

30/7/09 2:03:05 GeckoPM studio_v2.indd South Gippsland Tourist Railway

1

31/7/09 11:22:28 AM

Nyora to Leongatha 36km

EVERY SUNDAY from 10 am - Inside & Out

LIVE MUSIC FROM 11AM

For more info: www.sgr.org.au Ph: 5658 1111 South Gipps Tourist Railway.indd1 1

6/8/09 7:49:01 Kongwak.indd AM 1

Main Street, KONGWAK, Victoria (only 10 minutes from Inverloch)

For more information call Jane on 0417 142 478

coast 159

14/8/09 8:01:00 AM

www.coastmagazine.net

The home of the Dream Come True Program where you get to drive the train. We run Charters, Murder Mysteries, Dinner Trains and trains for all occasions. Trains run every Sunday and Wed during Victorian school holidays.

VAN STEENSEL TIMBERS BUILDING MATERIALS & WATER TANKS

HUGE RANGE OF WATER TANKS

By Appointment Only

TIMBER . PAINTS. TOOLS. HARDWARE.....AND MORE

41 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven 3925 Consultations available at Cowes Medical Centre - Tues 8.30am - 12.30pm

For Appointments ring 59 567002 A/H Emergency Repairs ring 0412 231 268 DK Denture.indd 1

FRIENDLY & EXPERT ADVICE CNR. CORINELLA TURN OFF & BASS HWY, GRANTVILLE

(03)56788552

31/7/09 11:55:17 Van Steensel.indd AM 1

3/8/09 2:02:30 PM

specialised joinery solutions

Functions for all occasions!

Custom made: • Kitchen Interiors • Yacht Interiors • Timber Bi-fold Doors • Sliding Timber Doors • French Doors • Timber Windows • Consultancy for the joinery & interior industry • In house and onsite training • Technical advice and solutions • Representative for StairBiz software in Australia

AD THIS T N O I S T MEN OUR COA Y FOR SCOUNT DI

Pool Tables, Air Hockey tables, Lounge, Cafe & Fully Licensed Bar, Table Tennis, Internet Access, Interactive Games & Austar Entertainment on a large screen.

91 SETTLEMENT ROAD, COWES tenpin@pitenpin.com.au www.pitenpin.com.au coast 160

PI 10 Pin Bowling.indd 1

5952 3977

Kevin Holden PO Box 789, Wonthaggi 0458 520 347

4/5/09 3:27:15 Woodwork PM Solutions.indd 1

7/8/09 9:07:02 AM

coast directory

BRB

Birch Ross & Barlow

Your local solicitors operating in South Gippsland for over 100 years

OFFICES:

Korumburra (03) 5655 1066 Leongatha (03) 5662 2275 Wonthaggi (03) 5672 1377 Cowes (03) 5952 1325 BRB.indd 1

A new property, 200mt to the beach, three levels, bedrooms on the ground and upper levels, sleeps 16, kitchen and lounge area on the middle level and two outdoor decking areas, one from the kitchen (with a BBQ) and the other from the lounge room.

The Ideal Getaway… www.stayz.com.au/58044

5/8/09 3:36:53 Eba Isle PMEntreprises.indd 1

Ph. 9800 1400 Maria/Rosy

12/8/09 7:40:59 AM

www.coastmagazine.net

Distributors for South Gippsland “FUEL BY THE TANK OR TANKER FULL” COWES, FISH CREEK, FOSTER, INVERLOCH, KORUMBURRA, LEONGATHA, MIRBOO NTH, TOORA, WONTHAGGI, YARRAM &

MAIN DEPOT 03 5662 2217 A/H 0418 595 346 Evans Petroleum.indd 1

4/8/09 2:37:26 Storybook.indd PM 1

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www.coastmagazine.net

directory where to stay, eat, shop – fashion - builders – property – gardening & green – live the dream Accommodation 144

Quest Apartments Cowes

154

RACV Resort Inverloch

29

Entertainment Centre

160

Coast Fashion

Koonwarra Day Spa

158

San Remo Bakehouse

122

89

Sherwoods Restaurant

139 142

Lisa Kane

131

Shionis @ Kahloa

San Remo Pharmacy

131

Silverleaves Store &

Wonthaggi MFS Dispensary

78

Silverwater Resort San Remo

118

1 Soul

70

Stayz Phillip Island

161

Chris Yates

64

33

Deborucci’s

58

Home & Homewares

The Gilded Lily

155

Euro Collections

64

Aqua Inspired Living

127

The Red Elk Bar

155

Haze

62

Emily Flutterbys

157

Tomo Modern Japanese

155

Hunter

62

Foodworks San Remo

127

Trace’s Wrap & Roll Café

120

Island Style

58

Harvey Norman

Vela Nine

141

70

Luduco Living

The Waves Apartments Cowes Zenergie

115

Antiques Bass Coast Auctions

82

Jean Depot

L&J Tuddin Antique &

Accommodation

157

Karmella Fashions

157

Melbourne Furnishings

Mornington Antique Centre

115

Kudos

120

Nordic Designs

86

La Bella

76

South Coast Furnishings

72 163 82 157 11

Venus Bay Fishing Village Bar & Café Wonthaggi Club

Lilly Belle Shoes

68

86

Lime Fusion

60

Jewellers

Southern Bazaar

23

Lulu

60

Denis A Hawkins

Molly Moo + Tilly Bear

66

Goldsmiths Gallery

Artists & Galleries

Sketa

48

Lacy Jewellery Studio

Anita Stepano-Ross

So! Me

66

& Gallery

17

Prom Country Web Design

76

Wrenches Footwear

71

Studio 41 Mornington

47

Royal Botanic Gardens,

41

Yoko

68

Artists Studio Gallery 222 Gecko Studio Gallery

Gardens & Green Living

McClelland Gallery & Sculpture Park

15

Blue Gum Garden Supplies

Mingara Gallery

41

Cameron Contracting Compass Pools

Ride the Wild Goat Gallery Workshop

159

Automotive Edneys Leongatha

117

Builders and Designers

100 99

47 133

Bass Coast Comm Health

124

Birch Ross & Barlow

161 99

164 94

Property & Retirement

Island Eco Developments

94

Domain Aged Care

84

161

Loes Hardware

109

2

Wonthaggi Tiles & Woodheating 74

Pat Barrett Horticulturalist

106

Shearwater on the Island

6

Woodwork Solutions

92

150

998

Solar Shop

Langford Jones Homes

152

The Country Gardener

New Dimension Homes

151

Wonthaggi

100

Beach St Garden Gallery

Storybook Cottages

161

Van Steensels Timbers

160

Coffee Traders

139

TS Constructions

129

Wonthaggi Garden Supplies

108

Curry Leaf

156

Esplanade Hotel

136

Hard Loch Café

155 156

98

The Grange Retirement

152

Restaurants & Cafes Archies on the Creek

Hair, Health & Beauty

Paint Place

80 160

Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island 146

Solahart

coast 162

Evan’s Petroleum

Seagrove Estate

149

33

80

Prom Country Real Estate

153

Pakenham Racing Club

Trades & Hardware

107

Eric Van Agtmaal

159

74

108

Burke Homes

Kongwak Market

8

Island Landscape & Design

110

& Events

122

Island Garden Supplies

Simply Blooming Gorgeous

Entertainment, Markets

Wonthaggi State Coal Mine

Bass Coast Refrigeration

Hen n Pen

Phillip Island Nature Park

85

87

South Gippsland Tourist Railway 159

149

Newhaven College

37

Destination Gippsland

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit 117

Beaumont Concepts

Education

Amaze n Things

Cranbourne

Meehan Design

72

Tourism & Travel

Professional Services

159

144

Watermark @ Silverwater Resort 156

Antique Centre

South Gippsland & Tyabb

144

Taylors Waterfront Restaurant 141

Décor Gallery Sandisford Antiques

coast directory

John Gemmill

Phillip Island Bowling &

Getaway Phillip Island

About Bass Coast Hearing

78

Harry’s on the Esplanade

Amcal Chemist Cowes

84

Infused Restaurant & Wine Bar

4 25

11

Darren George Hair

158

Ocean View Hotel Kilcunda

136

DK Denture Clinic

160

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 133

Island Healing

158

Phillip Island Nature Park

143

Jeminy Hair & Health

158

Phillip Island RSL

143

Wineries Bluestone Lane Vineyard

140

Purple Hen Wines

156

THE ROMANCE OF…

A GREAT HI STORY O F CO MFO R T & D E S I G N For over 35 years, as one of Australia’s leading furniture manufacturers Tessa has amalgamated timeless design, fine craftsmanship & the very best of native timbers, leathers & fabrics to create a range of products that provide a perfect combination of superb comfort, functionality & style that perfectly suit today’s modern Australian home.

Now these beautiful designs are available exclusively on the Peninsula at Luduco Living & for a very limited period we have some very SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFERS to help celebrate the launch of this new Tessa studio.

COME AND SEE THE NEW

S T U D I O AT

MEL REF 104 K11

where furniture can be made to be as individual as you!

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peninsula lifestyle centre 1128 - 1132 nepean highway, mornington vic 3931 Phone 03 5973 4899 Facsimile 03 5973 4988

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OAD 163 coast

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