Gippsland Magazine - autumn 2021

AUTUMN / 2021

Welcome back Great escapes Gippsland’s top destinations revealed

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OF T HE BE S T N AT UR A L AT T R AC T ION S

Behind the camera Chris Cincotta’s six favourite places

TOP 5 UNIQUE PLACES TO STAY THE RIDGE HOUSE

Yarragon South Rest and relax in front of the fire at this beautifully renovated and styled country home. Hike private walking tracks and explore Yarragon Village, which is a 10-minute drive from the secluded getaway.

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DOWN TO EARTH FARM RETREAT

Sarsfield Nestled into the landscape with rooftop native gardens, this unique hideaway has 360-degree views from the Gippsland Lakes to the Great Dividing Range.

Relax in environmentally friendly surrounds only 10 minutes’ drive from Bairnsdale.

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CALLIGNEE II

Callignee Featured on Grand Designs Australia, this award-winning luxury retreat operates completely off the grid on sustainable living principles.

Relax by the 19m lap pool or explore the surrounding 2ha of native bushland.

AUTUMN / 2021

Meeniyan Disused farm buildings have been transformed into contemporary accommodation incorporating the old and the new. Whether you choose to stay in the Cabin, Barn or Dairy, you can expect all the comforts of a luxury stay in a rustic setting.

ippsland has always played a starring role in the memories of holidaymakers, but the summer of 2019-20 cast the region in a different light as it faced devastating bushfires followed by months of COVID-19 restrictions.

Now there is renewed hope; towns are back to full strength and offering the experiences and hospitality for which they are renowned.

While beaches and barbecues are a summer drawcard, Gippsland is a destination for visitors all year round.

This is, after all, a region of alpine roads and coastal wilderness, unspoilt

THE INVERLOCH GLAMPING CO

Inverloch Plan a weekend escape or extended break in a boutique beach cabin or luxury 5m bell tent in an idyllic setting overlooking the ocean. Cook and unwind in the purpose-built camp kitchen. Food hampers can also be organised in advance.

Destination

GIPPSLAND

EAST Hinterland adventures including the Great Alpine Road NATURAL WONDERS Ten of the best, sure to impress WEST Gourmet food and drink on Melbourne’s doorstep

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CENTRAL Rainforest and 90 miles of sand SOUTH Five towns you must visit now TOP TASTES Alejandro Saravia brings a slice of the region to Melbourne CHRIS CINCOTTA Gippsland in images EVENTS GUIDE Foodie dates for your calendar

THROUGH THE SEASONS beaches and dramatic seas, lush rainforest and rolling farmland.

These features yield the freshest produce from land and sea, awardwinning wines along with art, culture and activities to suit all ages.

So whether it is time for sand between the toes or zipping through the snow, fine dining or a craft ale and cheese board, historical towns or hiking through national parks, Gippsland has it all.

Gippsland

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

EAST The Gippsland Lakes; an outdoor playground

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365 DAYS IN GIPPSL AND /

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ROSS FARM

EAST Come and see why Mallacoota and Marlo are the places to be

MELBOURNE

AUTUMN

MOUNTAIN HIDEAWAY As the days draw in, Walhalla’s deciduous trees exchange their greenery for the vibrant hues of autumn. Enjoy the spectacular valley views at dawn and dusk, resplendent in russet and red, ochre and gold.

Picnic in the park, relax in front of an open fire, or tackle the Poverty Point Bridge Walk.

WINTER

WHALE WATCHING Drive, ride or walk the spectacular Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail to see humpback whales, southern rights and orcas make their annual trip from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Australia to give birth and raise their calves. Join a cruise for a chance to see these majestic mammals up close.

SPRING

A GREAT ALPINE DRIVE Pack a picnic, or pick up local produce along the way, and take the scenic route from Metung to Wangaratta. Departing from the beautiful Gippsland Lakes, drive through diverse landscapes — from coastal waterways climb through lush valleys to mountain tops amid rolling vineyards — taking time to take in the views.

SUMMER

FIND A QUIET BEACH Crystal clear waters and unspoilt beaches go hand-inhand with rising temperatures.

It’s hard to go past a leisurely stroll along Waratah Bay’s golden stretch of sand, or secluded Sealers Cove, on the eastern side of the Prom, while Mallacoota’s Secret Beach is just that. The tranquil hideaway is only accessible by foot.

COVER IMAGE Lakes Entrance. Photo: Chris Cincotta MAIN IMAGE Skull Rock.

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East

GIPPSLAND

COMING UP FOR AIR

NEW IN

Mallacoota

TAQUERIA COSTA SALVAJE Mexican fl avours and Mallacoota’s wilderness coast go hand in hand. The menu includes carnitas, tamales and Tin Dog barbacoa.

All roads lead back to Mallacoota as locals rolls out the welcome mat.

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t’s a ray of sunshine in what has been a time of devastation — the Mallacoota Wild Harvest Seafood Festival makes a triumphant return in September.

Organiser Jodie York says the festival, which celebrates the Mallacoota community’s connection with the ocean, is a “beacon of hope” for the town after a tough 2020, which included bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions.

To be held September 18-20, Wild Harvest will feature a cooking demonstration by chef Alejandro Saravia, who recently opened his Gippslandinspired farm-to-table restaurant Farmer’s Daughters in Melbourne.

Award-winning wine and food writers Max Allen and Richard Cornish will also share their extensive knowledge and passion for the ocean’s bounty.

There will be an opportunity to taste and buy the freshest produce at an openair market celebrating the secrets of the sea from abalone to sea urchins, crayfish to banded morwong, with Jodie saying:

“This is a rare opportunity to taste locally caught abalone.”

Live music and family entertainment such as fishing clinics and educational boat tours will also be on offer.

East Gippsland was hit hard by last summer’s bushfires. Lives and homes were lost, and regional tourism came to a standstill.

Then, just as the region was refinding its feet and visitors were returning, COVID-19 restrictions closed everything down again in March 2020.

Those in the know make the trip yearround to relax or enjoy hiking, walking and water-based activities.

Surrounded by the Croajingolong National Park, this is the place to see the state’s fauna in its native habitat; kangaroos graze on the golf course and koalas are regularly seen taking a short cut through town.

Birdwatchers flock to the fishing village to spot bar-tailed godwits and eastern yellow robins, which are among

the more than 200 bird species living in this part of the state.

One of the best spots to cast a line, the lure of bream, flathead, estuary perch, whiting and mulloway draws fishermen to beautiful Mallacoota Inlet.

Why not take the scenic route on your trip, stopping along the way to explore unspoilt estuaries and coastal wilderness.

The Snowy River meets the Tasman Sea at the hamlet of Marlo, where the sheltered estuaries make it one of Australia’s best places for bream and perch fishing.

Stretch your legs on the Snowy River Estuary Walk, which can be joined from carparks along Marlo-Cape Conran Rd. Walk the 5km or so into Marlo, via Mots Beach, and enjoy views of the Tasman on one side and the estuary on the other.

Take a break at the Marlo Caravan Park & Motel (10 Argyle Parade), which has accommodation to suit all budgets.

The Marlo Ocean Views (21 Marine Parade) caravan and camping park has the added attraction of the Beachside Takeaway & Kiosk, which serves fish and chips overlooking the spot where the Snowy River opens into the sea.

In the heart of town, the Marlo Hotel (19 Argyle Parade) offers pub meals, rooms with a sea view and a deck from which to watch spectacular sunsets.

Before continuing on to Cape Conran, pick up bee-produced goodies at Sweet Little Honey Shop (11 William Hunter Drive).

Make a pit stop at one of the beaches; East Cape’s calm waters are perfect for families and swimming while big swells await surfers at West Cape.

Cape Conran is also one of 11 significant Indigenous sites on the Bataluk Cultural Trail. The Salmon Rock viewing platform is built over an Aboriginal shell midden used by the Gunaikurnai people.

LOCAL LOVE ON THE AGENDA LUCY’S

64 Maurice Ave Delicious homemade rice noodles and dumplings served at this Mallacoota institution keep everyone coming back for more.

MALLACOOTA FORESHORE HOLIDAY PARK

Allan Drive Now fully open and accepting new bookings; also has jetties and mooring points for visitors’ boats.

MALLACOOTA BEACHCOMBER CARAVAN PARK

85-87 Betka Rd Grab a spot under a shady tree in a peaceful setting close to the beach and town.

KARBEETHONG LODGE

16 Schnapper Point Drive The boutique guesthouse, with Mallacoota Lake on its doorstep, is one for those seeking rest and relaxation.

ORIGAMI COFFEE

19 Dorron Ave Start your day at this gem of a coffee shop in the heart of Mallacoota. Take a seat in the garden and learn how to fold origami cranes.

MAIN Diving for abalone. ABOVE Mallacoota sunset, Wild Harvest Seafood Festival oysters, Marlo.

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East

GIPPSLAND

Outdoor playground A short stay goes a long way where the ocean meets the lakes in Victoria’s east.

Hinterland

ADVENTURES Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind with an unforgettable trip through alpine towns.

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ull on the bathers, pick up a paddle, cast a line, or birdwatch to your heart’s content. East Gippsland is a year-round attraction, with its most popular retreats never far from the water.

The white, sandy bend of Ninety Mile Beach splits the meandering Gippsland Lakes from the vastness of the Southern Ocean.

Lakes Entrance is the hub — particularly for boating and fishing enthusiasts — while villages such as Metung and Paynesville lure visitors to the King, Victoria and Wellington lakes.

The region is a renowned food bowl; follow the Twin Rivers — Farm-Food & Wine Trail or the East Gippsland Foodmap for produce straight from the farm and just-caught seafood.

BAIRNSDALE

Kick off your trip through the rolling hills of East Gippsland at this leafy city located on the banks of the Mitchell River. Get a taste of the region at Northern Ground (144 Main St), which morphs from cafe to restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights. Owner/chef Rob Turner sources top quality local produce and gives it a stylish twist, all washed down with local wines and brews.

BUCHAN

Delve deeper into the East Gippsland countryside — literally — with a day trip through the famous Buchan Caves (98 Caves Rd), where artefacts of Aboriginal occupation from 18,000 years ago are still visible.

After a few hours spent exploring, enjoy a picnic and camp in the great outdoors.

Or stay a night or two at the historic Caves House residence.

THINGS TO TRY

GIPPSLAND LAKES OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

The Gippsland Lakes are an ideal base from which to explore Ninety Mile Beach and its surrounds. Take a Venture Out (347b Esplanade) mountain bike tour or join a SUP Marlo (4 Willis Ave, Marlo) kayaking or paddleboarding guided tour of the Snowy River backwaters.

A great way to experience unique environments, the protected waters also provide perfect conditions for novice paddleboarders.

BOATING & FISHING

Take a guided cruise of the waters around Metung village, Lake King and Paynesville. Hire a yacht from Riviera Nautic (185 Metung Rd, Metung) and sail the Gippsland Lakes, jump on a Lakes-Explorer (Post Office Jetty) water taxi or wildlife ecotour. For angling and off-shore adventures, hit Bass Strait with Far Out Fishing Charters (Skate Park Boat Ramp) for a chance to bag snapper, mako or gummy shark, or fl athead.

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hether you are seeking an Easter getaway or planning a winter escape to the ski slopes of Mt Hotham, the mountains in this beautiful part of the state are the perfect destination.

Start your trip at Bairnsdale, gateway to the Gippsland Lakes and the High Country, then explore the many unique towns and villages on a bucket-list road trip up the Great Alpine Road. From fine wines to stunning landscapes, there is plenty to get excited about on this epic route.

HELICOPTER FLIGHTS

Nothing truly captures Ninety Mile Beach quite like the view from above. Take to the skies with Lakes Entrance Helicopters (Lakes Entrance Airfield) to see Fraser and Flannagans islands, Lakes Entrance, that spectacular expanse of beach and the naturally formed Mitchell River silt jetties, which snake their way more than 8km off the mainland and are the longest of their kind in the world.

BRUTHEN

FOOD & WINE

For seafood fresh off the boat, head to Off the Wharf (37 Bullock Island Rd, Lakes Entrance). Winner of a Chef’s Hat in February, the seafood is so fresh they talk in food metres not miles at Sodafish (Middle Boat Harbour, Lakes Entrance).

The Metung Hotel (Kurnai Ave, Metung) has delicious meals and stunning views, while Lightfoot & Sons (717 Calulu Rd, Bairnsdale) is renowned for its pinot noir, chardonnay and shiraz.

Get to know your pale ales and pilsners at the Bullant Brewery (46 Main St). After decades of home brewing, owner Neil Triggs turned his passion into a career in 2011. Call in to enjoy a few schooners and sample the food and beer pairing. Or stop off at the Bruthen Bakery (62 Main St), which does a roaring trade in pies and Cornish pasties along with vanilla slices and other sweet treats.

L IQUID GOL D

Venture onwards and upwards to Ensay Winery (5094 Great Alpine Rd, Ensay) for wines from full-bodied shiraz to earthy pinot noir. Nullamunjie Olive Groves and Pressing Shed Cafe (290 Bindi Rd, Tongio), on Mt Stawell’s lower slopes, has awardwinning olive oil.

OMEO

Stop by the new Pump & Skills Track at Livingstone Park (20 Creek St), designed to spell out “Omeo”, and see how good you are on a bike. Or dust off your (cowboy) boots and watch the professionals in action at the Omeo Rodeo (Omeo Rodeo Grounds, Park St) on April 4. The Golden Age Hotel Motel (189 Day Ave), in the heart of the township, offers accommodation to suit all budgets.

MAIN Buchan Caves.

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HO UR IV

HO UR DR IV E

Located in Bass Strait, Skull Rock has been partially hollowed out by waves creating a cave that is 130m wide and 60m tall. The Rock is so big it could engulf the Sydney Opera House, says Rob Pennicott, who runs eco-wilderness cruises of Wilsons Prom in his bright yellow amphibious boats.

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WILSONS PROM

Book your campsite at ‘The Prom’, where you will be surrounded by nature and close to the water. Take the scenic drive from Yanakie to the Tidal River campsite, hike the many walking tracks and discover the ethereal beauty of the Big Drift, an everchanging landscape of sand dunes.

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TARRA BULGA NATIONAL PARK

Giant mountain ash and tree ferns make this one of only four temperate rainforest areas in the state. See birds including currawongs and yellowtailed black cockatoos by day. The forest comes to life in the evening as possums, owls and bats come out to feed.

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The unbroken stretch of sand flanked by dunes and the crashing surf of Bass Strait reaches from McLoughlins Beach to Lakes Entrance. Fish, camp and enjoy ocean swims or take the wildlife trail between historic towns to spot kangaroos, emus and echidnas.

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GIPPSLAND LAKES

The largest inland water system in the southern hemisphere, this network of lakes, marshes and lagoons is a haven for fishing, boating and birding. Stay in Lakes Entrance, Metung or Paynesville and catch a ferry to see koalas on Raymond Island.

HO UR DR IVE Big Drift

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NINETY MILE BEACH

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Immerse yourself in Victoria’s east among unspoilt beaches, inland lakes and alpine mountains, where snowfields, cool-climate vineyards and gourmet produce are in abundance.

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NATURAL WONDERS

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BUNURONG COAST

Mystery awaits along the 17km of coastline between Cape Paterson and Inverloch. Rugged cliffs plunge into the sea, rock pools teem with life and dramatic rock formations, including Eagles Nest, rise out of the water at Bunurong Marine Park and Coastal Reserve.

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MT BAW BAW

When snow blankets the lower reaches of the Great Dividing Range, Baw Baw Village becomes the hub of the ski resort.

With its snow gums and vibrant wildflowers, this alpine region becomes a popular hiking and mountain-biking spot when the snow melts.

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BUCHAN CAVES

The Buchan Caves Reserve is home to many native animal and plant species and exotic trees. It also has some of the finest examples of limestone caves in the country. Learn the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite by joining a tour of Royal Cave or Fairy Cave.

Bunurong Coast

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TOORONGO FALLS

Towering eucalypts and lush ferns line the one-hour return walk to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls in dense temperate rainforest. Camp overnight for the chance to see mountain brushtail and ringtail possums, sugar gliders and bats.

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MALLACOOTA

Secluded beaches and pristine waterways make the town one of Victoria’s great escapes.

Popular for its boating and fishing, whales, dolphins and seals can be spotted off the unspoilt coastline.

Or drive to Point Hicks Marine National Park to see the diversity of sea life and two shipwrecks.

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West

GIPPSLAND

Central

GIPPSLAND

So close to

MELBOURNE

Take winding roads to historic towns and gourmet food and drink.

F TOP 3 RETRE ATS VIVERE RETREAT

Neerim South Neerim South is a gateway to the snowfields of Mt Baw Baw, but the bushwalking trails are open all year. Stock up on local cheeses and gourmet produce before taking a break at the luxurious Vivere Retreat. Set on 7ha, it has spectacular views of the Baw Baw Ranges.

ertile lowlands on the outskirts of Melbourne’s southeast give way to hillsides dotted with dairy cows.

This is Gippsland gourmet country, where cool-climate vineyards, farmers’ markets and top dining options abound.

Skiing, fishing, hiking and cycling trails attract visitors to this part of Victoria across all seasons.

NOOJEE

The town is best known for its trestle bridge and the Ada tree, a giant mountain ash said to be the oldest and largest in Victoria. Stop for a meal and beer at The Outpost Retreat/ Toolshed Pub (38 Loch Valley Rd) before continuing your drive through native bush and towering tree ferns.

VUE AT JINDIVICK

Jindivick Watch the sun rise from the comfort of Vue as fog slowly lifts to reveal the surrounding bushland below. This eco-B&B is set on 14.5ha and has views of Mt Baw Baw. Well situated to take in West Gippsland’s wineries and gourmet stops, you can even try your hand at a beekeeping course.

TALLAWARRA HOMESTEAD

Tonimbuk With its period fittings, high ceilings, open fireplace and hardwood timber floors extending to a sweeping veranda, Tallawarra is a fine example of an Australian colonial homestead.

Located in the rolling hills of Tonimbuk, this slice of fi ve-star hospitality is only an hour’s drive from Melbourne.

ABOVE Vivere Retreat. MAIN Walhalla.

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MT BAW BAW

The sheltered slopes makes this family friendly alpine resort a great place to learn to ski or snowboard. The 35ha of snow terrain includes groomed runs and snow play, toboggan and magic carpet areas. The drive to Melbourne’s closest ski resort takes less than three hours.

YARRAGON

Fill a basket at Gippsland Food & Wine (123 Princes Highway), and Penny Worth O’Lollies (101 Princes Highway) has all the favourites. The Town & Country Gallery (111 Princes Highway) displays works by exciting local artists and artisans, and is the perfect place to find a collectable or gift.

WINERIES

Feast at the hatted Hogget Kitchen (6 Farrington Close, Warragul), where chef Trevor Perkins forages items from the Wild Dog Winery garden. Sip wine fire-side at Cannibal Creek Vineyard (260 Tynong North Rd, Tynong), enjoy wood-fired pizzas at Ripplebrook Winery (681 Gardner & Holman Rd) while Brandy Creek Estate (570 Buln Buln Rd, Drouin East) offers tapas and a day spa.

Natural attraction The region’s scenery and surrounds have all the essentials for an unforgettable escape.

WA L H A L L A

Dubbed Australia’s “Valley of the Gods”, Walhalla’s gold rush-era heritage and position in a deep mountain valley are a drawcard, particularly in autumn.

Stay at the Star Hotel (130 Main Rd) and experience the Walhalla Goldfields Railway (10 Happy Go Lucky Rd) for a touch of history.

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rom rainforests and rolling hills to golden beaches, Central Gippsland abounds in natural beauty.

Start your adventure in Traralgon, then work your way through impressive countryside to the idyllic coastal fishing village of Port Albert.

Whether you are looking to dust off the cobwebs with an adventurefilled holiday or seeking to relax and recuperate in nature, here is everything you need for an unforgettable getaway.

TRARALGON

Located in the east of the Latrobe Valley, the city has made its name as a foodie destination in recent years. One of the stars of the local culinary scene for more than 15 years, Neilsons has been relaunched as Neilsons Kitchen (13 Seymour St). Fresh Gippsland produce is the hero whether you call in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

ABOVE Tarra Bulga National Park.

TARRA BULGA NATIONAL PARK

Meander along the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk to the Cyathea Falls, exert yourself on the Grand Strzelecki Walking Track that connects Morwell and Tarra Bulga national parks, or take the easier 1.2km Fern Gully Nature Walk to Corrigan Suspension Bridge for an impressive aerial view of nature.

NINETY MILE BEACH

Sprawling from the shallow inlets near Port Albert to the open waterways of Lakes Entrance, you are bound to find your private paradise somewhere along this pristine golden beach. Popular with surfers, Woodside Beach is a relaxed getaway close to the start of Ninety Mile Beach. Beautiful and serene, it’s a good place to stop and collect your thoughts.

PORT ALBERT

Novice or expert, there’s no better place to cast your line. Port Albert Fishin’ Charters (Wharf St) skipper and local man Brian Spiteri will take you to all the

best spots for reeling in king fish, whiting and snapper. For exceptional waterfront dining check out Wildfish (40 Wharf St) for local seafood and an impressive selection of Gippsland beer and wine.

WINE & DINE

Check out the Toms Cap Vineyard Retreat (322 Lays Rd, Willung South) cellar door, linger in one of the restaurants and book a stay in a luxe cottage. Enjoy breakfast and lunch on the lawn at The Vines on Avon restaurant, part of the Avon Ridge Vineyard (446 Maffra-Stratford Rd, Maffra), where local produce, wine and cider are on the menu. Award-winning wines, an impressive menu and views of the Strzelecki Ranges — there’s a lot to like at Narkoojee (220 Francis Rd, Glengarry North). Unwind, relax and taste the award-winning vintages at the Blue Gables Vineyard (100 Lanigan Rd, Maffra West Upper) cellar door, which also serves an extensive range of wood-fired pizzas. / 11

South

GIPPSLAND

FROM GIPPSLAND

BELOW udder & hoe, Loch.

TOP 5 CULINARY STOPS THE BOROUGH DEPT. STORE

63-67 Commercial St, Korumburra The surrounding hills produce a huge range of fresh foods, which are showcased in a beautiful 1930s-era department store (above). The cake shop serves exquisite sweet treats and shares the space with a cafe and pantry.

Local FLAVOURS

Take roads less travelled to uncover some of the state’s best-kept secrets.

TOP 5 / LITTLE TOWNS TO VISIT

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The beachside town of Kilcunda has much to offer. Shop at udder & hoe (3535 Bass Highway) then eat at the Kilcunda General Store, which shares the same address, or the Killy Pub (3531-3533 Bass Highway). Cycle the 23km Bass Coast Rail Trail, or wander along the George Bass Coastal Walk.

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Loch is a must-visit to sample local and seasonal produce.

Drop in to udder & hoe (37 Victoria Rd) or Olive at Loch (38 Victoria Rd) and maybe pick up some gifts to take home, before or after a brisk walk to the suspension bridge over

Allsop Creek. Finish the day with a decadent afternoon tea at the gorgeous Loch Village Foodstore (35 Victoria Rd).

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Inverloch is perfect for families, fishing enthusiasts and surfers. Cape Paterson Bay Beach is ideal for those with children. Or catch some waves at the nearby surf beach. After a day of exploring, refuel at Tomo’s Japanese (1/23 A’Beckett St).

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Meeniyan has a reputation for attracting eclectic and varied local and international music

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acts. Creativity is also on show at the Meeniyan Art Gallery (84 Whitelaw St). Two of Meeniyan’s favourite eateries were reborn during lockdown, so be sure to check out the sunny new deck at Moo’s at Meeniyan (89 Whitelaw St) and Trulli’s (93 Whitelaw St) new hyper-local set dinner menu.

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Fish Creek’s arts and crafts outlets include the Alison Lester Gallery (1 Falls Rd), with artwork and books by the artist and popular children’s author. Stop at the Fish Creek Hotel (1 Old Waratah Rd) for a meal in the cosy bistro.

THE GROVE

27 Uren Rd, Krowera Part olive grove, part trufferie, restaurant and function space, now there’s glamping as well.

Set atop the hills of the Bass Hinterland with sweeping views of the region, The Grove also offers nature walks of the 24ha property.

DIRTY THREE WINES

64 Cashin St, Inverloch Famous for its pinot noir, the ‘dirty’ in the name represents the soil in three different vineyards. Sample the pinot with local cheese and charcuterie, along with local beers, gin and coffee.

with love

Alejandro Saravia throws his support behind the community he knows so well.

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very time Alejandro Saravia visits Gippsland, the acclaimed Melbourne chef is astounded by the generosity of the region’s people.

“They never stop giving,” says Alejandro, who set up a makeshift kitchen in a town hall between Lakes Entrance and Mallacoota during the fires last summer and cooked hearty beef stew for farmers, residents and firefighters.

“Even in the worst possible situation, with devastating fires burning out of control, the people of Gippsland work together in their communities and make sure everyone’s OK,” he says.

Alejandro has spent several years getting to know Gippsland’s primary producers as the region’s food and drink ambassador, using produce from Victoria’s east at his Peruvian restaurant, Pastuso, in Melbourne’s AC/DC Lane.

He opened Farmer’s Daughters in Melbourne’s highly anticipated 80 Collins retail and dining precinct in January.

Fresh seasonal produce that tells the stories of Gippsland’s seasons, people and producers is the three-level eatery’s food philosophy.

Gippsland wines and spirits are also represented, and includes a selection from renowned winemakers such as Bass Philip, William Downie and Patrick Sullivan, as well as Loch Gin. “ Farmer’s Daughters brings a sense of place for everyone who wants to discover Gippsland, and I want to help share this vision while shining a spotlight on what I believe to be one of the most important farming regions in Australia,” Alejandro says.

“Off the back of the devastating bushfires and in the wake of a pandemic, supporting regional Victoria on the road to recovery has never been so important.

“Farmer’s Daughters will be a place that allows diners to escape; to take a journey into the countryside and connect with the real food culture of Victoria.”

Alejandro Saravia cooks at the Mallacoota Wild Harvest Seafood Festival, September 18-20.

LOCH BREWERY AND DISTILLERY

42-44 Victoria Rd, Loch This striking cellar door inhabits Loch’s historic bank building, where an impressive array of whisky, gin and beer is produced. Start off with a tasting paddle, then settle in for a couple of pints or gin cocktails.

MEENIYAN PANTRY & CELLAR

82 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan Open for takeaway meals and beverages, the pantry shelves are bursting with housemade marinades, pickled vegetables and locally made spreads.

Wines from near and far, and beers from small-scale breweries take pride of place in the cellar.

IN GOOD TASTE Alejandro recommends Awesome Fish & Chips 337 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance

“I’m obsessed with finding the best fish and chips … they really are awesome.

Seriously. They have really fresh local fish and thick chips that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. And they’re all wrapped in paper, just like they used to be.”

SARDINE Eatery + Bar 3/69A Esplanade, Paynesville

“SARDINE is amazing for seafood and local Gippsland produce. I totally recommend stopping there for a meal if you’re driving through to Mallacoota.

Or stay for a few days and enjoy the lakes.”

Hogget Kitchen 6 Farrington Close, Warragul

“This (recently hatted) restaurant and cafe is really good, with a chef (Trevor Perkins) who has grown up in Gippsland and sources food directly from the farmers. It’s a wonderful place to eat.”

udder & hoe 37 Victoria Rd, Loch

“This is such a beautiful, cosy place to stop for a recharge and a bite to eat. They sell a lot of small producers’ vegetables.

They also have grains from the region, and locally milled flour. And they serve the best antipasto plates, with local vegetables, cheese and charcuterie.”

Alpine Trout Farm 115 Mt Baw Baw Tourist Rd, Piedmont

“I love this place. You can go there and catch your own trout and then grill it at the farm. They also sell excellent smoked trout.”

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Chris Cincotta

TINAMBA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL APRIL 11 Tinamba, Central Gippsland

Live music, food and wine bring a party atmosphere to the dairy farming town’s main street. Sample and buy from wineries including Blue Gables and Mt Moornapa Wines, while the Tinamba Hotel and Tangled in Food are among the many eateries serving delicious food. And when the band strikes up, it’s time to kick up your heels.

@HUMANS IN MELBOURNE @MELBOURNEILOVEYOU

GIPPSLAND AMBASSADOR

As an ambassador for Gippsland over the past couple of years, I was lucky enough to travel through this gorgeous region and see so many beautiful landscapes and meet so many lovely people who call this place home. Here are six of my favourite places, I could have chosen so many more! I highly recommend heading to Gippsland for a holiday, it is a wondrous place.

LOCH FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL JUNE 13 Loch, South Gippsland

WILSONS PROM/THE BIG DRIFT

TARRA BULGA NATIONAL PARK

One of the natural wonders of Victoria, this area is ridiculously picturesque. From the pristine Prom beaches to the inland desert that is the Big Drift. When you’re at the Big Drift you feel like you could be in the Sahara!

This is like being in Jurassic Park. The ferns are so large and everything seems like it’s from a time long ago. There is a fantastic suspension bridge over a valley of ferns. We were lucky enough to get this shot of a rainbow umbrella in the middle of the bridge.

festival

LOCH

This most adorable little town will make you feel so welcome. The Loch Brewery (run by Craig and Mel) is fantastic and a must if you’re a gin connoisseur. Next door you will find the famous Olive at Loch with its delicious pies and other delicacies.

The Gippsland Lakes are stunning and a playground for any photographer.

On our visit we were lucky enough to ride camels on the beach and to go up with Lakes Entrance Helicopters to get a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful town.

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WALHALLA

An autumn wonderland, Walhalla is gorgeous at any time of the year but particularly now it stands out from other towns in Victoria. The trees turn the brightest colours and you really feel like you’re in a movie in this historic little town.

SEPTEMBER 18-20 Mallacoota, East Gippsland

Nestled on the rocky shores of the Wilderness Coast — the Croajingolong National Park on one side, Mallacoota Inlet and the ocean waves on the other — this is the perfect setting for a three-day celebration of the region’s abundance and variety of seafood. Book a spot on a oyster and champagne cruise, learn a sea shanty, let the kids take part in a fishing clinic and don’t forget your Esky.

FEAST ON EAST JUNE 13 Metung, East Gippsland

Celebrate the best food, wine and beer the region has to offer while overlooking picturesque Bancroft Bay from the Metung Village Green.

Sample and stock up on local wines and enjoy delectable all-day treats on offer from the likes of Bancroft Bites and Culinaire.

EAST GIPPSLAND WINTER FESTIVAL JUNE 19-JULY 11 East Gippsland

BUCHAN RODEO APRIL 4 Buchan, East Gippsland

RAYMOND ISLAND LAKES ENTRANCE

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wild Harvest Seafood Festival

About 100km south-east of Melbourne, the small but vibrant Loch Village offers respite from the hustle and bustle of city living.

The region’s finest produce is showcased during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. Enjoy the tastes of South Gippsland and make time to uncover a treasure or two at the gift, antique and speciality stores.

Just a (free) twominute ferry ride from Paynesville you’ll find Raymond Island with its throng of koalas and echidnas! In our twohour visit to the island we saw 18 koalas and two echidnas! I highly recommend hiring a bike from Ride the Koalas.

Get ready for adrenalin-fuelled action on Easter Sunday as riders of all ages, bulls, steers and horses compete in the annual event at Buchan Rodeo Grounds.

From bareback bronc riding to steer wrestling and barrel racing, expect thrills, spills and plenty of excitement.

Celebrate the region’s art, beer, natural attractions and warm hospitality with this new festival, which will be held across East Gippsland. Towns and villages will be transformed with lighting displays, art installations, performances and pop-up events. The program of events also includes festival feasts, naturebased activities, cultural tours and workshops, so start planning your epic winter road trip now.

PUBLISHED BY Partnerships & Magazines Victoria, a division of The Herald & Weekly Times Pty Ltd, HWT Tower, 40 City Rd, Southbank, Victoria 3006, ABN 49 004 113 937 Visit Victoria Lauren Dawes Managing Editor Fiona Welsh Editor Sashi Thapa Creative Meisha Reynolds, Michael Owen Sub-Editors Laeta Crawford, Lee Howard Writers Bianca Carmona, Wendy Hargreaves, Dan Imhoff, Sharon McGowan, Erin Miller Print Manager Andrew Davies Printing OVATO Information correct at time of printing.

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Mark Briggs

Sardine Eatery & Bar Paynesville, Gippsland The phone call comes in at the break of dawn. The boats have docked with our fish, and we know it’s just been caught. More than using what’s in season, we get the freshest produce at their best.

We serve East Gippsland on a plate, inspired by the amazing ingredients at our doorstep. visitvictoria.com