Q&A with Wilbur Wilde

Interview by Madeleine Blake

Wilbur Wilde doesn’t need much of an introduction, he has been a mainstay on the Australian music scene for over 40 years. From Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons, to Hey Hey it’s Saturday, to Wilbur Wilde and the TroubleMakers, his music ability and larger than life personality have continued to wow the crowds. We have to say we were pretty chuffed to hear that he had set up a second home in Daylesford. We dropped in to Wilde Cherry House to get the scoop on what drew him to the area and what his go to spots are while in town.

What drew you to the Daylesford area? Seeking a place that was a retreat from the city, my partner Cherry and I bought a house up here in the midst of the Melbourne lockdowns. After visiting and hanging out in the area, I’ve discovered quite a few friends also call the area home. My old touring buddy Joe Camilleri lives in Kyneton, some school friends live in Lauriston, another mate is in Glenlyon, while Woodend and Blampied are homes to other besties as well.

Tell us a little more about Wilde Cherry House. Cherry initially purchased Wilde Cherry House as a potential respite for some of her palliative clients. While it served that purpose well, we soon realised it would appeal to other guests as well. We therefore set out to create a restful environment in which you can listen to my eclectic collection of CDs and vinyl. The decor is comprised of a collection of Australian musical and showbiz related objects. There are musical instruments on the walls (including a maraca signed by Hugh Jackman), along with gold and platinum records. Next door, is Zulu Land Afrika Studio, which gives a nod to Cherry’s South African heritage. A percentage of money from Zulu Land Afrika Studio is gifted to Conservation Solutions. This organisation, which is run by Cherry’s brother, is dedicated to large scale capture, translocation and restocking and health of endangered wildlife species.

Where is your favourite place for a bite to eat in the region? Bad Habits Café at The Convent Gallery is a favourite, as is Wombat Hill House within the Botanic Gardens. When treating ourselves to something special, we can’t go past the restaurant at Lake House, and for a night out, the Palais-Hepburn is high on my list. Not only do they do great food, it’s also a classy live performance venue.

Is that your favourite live music venue in the region? Yes. The Palais-Hepburn is a clear standout. I’ve played gigs there in the past and plan to again in the future. We’ve also got our sights set on other locations around town for an Australia Day extravaganza… Wilbur Wilde and The TroubleMakers plus special guests. Watch this space on that one.

What is your go to place to relax and unwind when visiting Daylesford? There are so many open spaces, parks and cafés to explore up this way. As the new kid in town I’m enjoying discovering new places. A firm favourite is The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham, which I love to head to after a stroll down Trentham’s historical main street.

What’s your favourite thing about the warmer months in Daylesford? Circumstances over the last years have provided limited opportunities for summers at the Wilde Cherry House, but I’m looking forward to exploring the regions many vineyards and waterfalls this summer.

Book a stay at wildecherry.com.au or discover Wilbur’s upcoming gigs by visiting wilburwilde.com. Brewery & Taproom Restaurant & Bar Accommodation Bottleshop

holgatebrewhouse.com