The Local Issue 39 February 16, 2015

February 16, 2015 Issue 39 “Clowning around”

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

The Local - tlnews.com.au

2 About Us

The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Heart of the Highlands. The next edition is out on Monday, March 2, 2015.

Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/DHSLocal to receive your e-edition early - on Sunday evening!

Advertising deadlines for the next edition of The Local: Space bookings: Wednesday, February 25 Copy provided by: Thursday, February 26 Editorial deadline: Thursday, February 26 General manager | Photographer: Kyle Barnes Managing editor | Layout: Donna Kelly Sub-editors: Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Sales: Nick Bunning Accounts: Jan Oldfield Contributors: Jackie Airey, Glen Heyne, George Weiss, Robin Archer Editorial and affordable sales - 5348 7883 | 0416 104 283 donna@tlnews.com.au | kyle@tlnews.com.au e-editions at www.tlnews.com.au

Money, money, money...

Advertisements in The Local are very affordable - unlike traditional print media we don’t charge like wounded bulls!

So here goes with our loyalty prices...for six consecutive adverts An eighth of a page - $50 plus GST A quarter page - $100 plus GST A banner - $100 plus GST A half page - $200 plus GST A full page - $400 plus GST (Prices are per edition)

Seen a photo you like? Photos are just $20 each and will be emailed at high resolution. You can print as many copies as you like...

But wait, there’s more!

“The Local” is a registered trademark of Kyle Barnes & Donna Kelly

All adverts in The Local are full colour and we can help with graphic designs and layouts too! At no extra cost, of course.

Front cover: Special effects artist Clark Ashley Smith took time to clown around with Elicia Ward - with scary results.

Photo: Kyle Barnes

So, if you want to get your business or organisation out there in the community, in the best-read publication in the Heart of the Highlands, give us a call or send an email. (See our details left.)

Oh, we also have an average of 76,000 impressions online each edition at www.tlnews.com.au - even more reasons to get in touch.

THE OLD HEPBURN HOTEL

An authentic country pub with a focus on food, family and entertainment.

MENU Modern Australian with pub classics.

Midweek specials.

Chef Josh Lucassen can design a menu for all occasions.

MUSIC Host to local musicians and some of Australiaʼs premier artists.

THE PUB Open 7 days lunch & dinner.

Courtesy bus.

Group bookings (up to 100 guests).

Amber Dooley

236 Main Rd, Hepburn

Beer garden.

drink@oldhepburnhotel.com.au

www.oldhepburnhotel.com.au

ph:03 53482207

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News 3

Chocolate and mineral water the key to celebrating 100 years

N

ELLIE Comte turns 100 on February 24 – and is Daylesford’s greatest ambassador.

her garden and flowers including a lovely fernery on the front step, despite there being a bit too much for her now.

“I had always done the garden myself until about five years ago, but it’s too She started coming to the town when she was just 17, staying with a much now.” girlfriend at the Belvedere Hotel – now better known as Frangos & Frangos.

It was also five years ago, at 95, that Mrs Comte stopped chopping her own The girls were given “Max’s room”, the manager, but only after promising they wood for her combustion stove. Her family hired a bloke to help her out but when would not open the drawer in the cupboard. son Martin called to see how it was going he was already sacked for not cutting “We came on the train and there used to be a bus that met the train at the the wood short enough. station many years ago, and that would bring us down, my girlfriend and I, to the But nothing will ever make her give up her love of the North Melbourne Belvedere Hotel.

“And ‘Maxi’, we used to get his room, on the one condition that we didn’t open Football Club. She watches every game - although it’s sometimes hard to see the ball - and gives us a vigorous fist pump for her team. In the 1950s when the family the drawer so naturally that was the first thing we did. We pulled it open and read was in South Australia for a bit, she and her husband would make a fortnightly all his letters – he wanted us too – he set us up.

“And in those days they used to have dances down by the lake, in the rotunda, a road trip to see the boys in action.

So, the question remains, what’s the secret behind making 100 in good health dance every night. It was wonderful.”

Mrs Comte, who was a volunteer at St Vincent de Paul until she was 94, and her and living independently in your own home?

“You eat plenty of chocolate. I have never had a smoke and I have tasted husband bought a house in Daylesford for a weekender and moved in permanently alcohol but I didn’t like it. I’ve got a sweet tooth and am just a chocoholic. about 1980 – eight years before he died.

“I live on my own and have a girl that comes once a week and puts the vacuum Her husband was a baker along with being a gifted artist – his paintings and stained glass adorn the house still – and philosopher, and as it turns out, renovator. cleaner through. I have knocked myself around a bit today because I put the “My husband bought this place and left this room and the room at the back there washing out – but if I don’t try how will I know if I can do it or not. I am still alive you know. but he pulled all the rest of it down and he rebuilt it and put a nice bathroom and “And I still love Daylesford – I have loved it all my life. I also used to like the all that in. mineral water a lot – but I used to like a lot of things when I was 17,” she says “You can walk right around the house. It’s comfortable.” with a wink.

And Mrs Comte, who has plenty of visitors to keep her busy, obviously enjoys

The Local is the future of regional publishing!

- stated by Victorian Senator John Madigan in the Australian Parliament - November 2014 Just sayin’.... :)

4 Our artisans

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Lost trade still to be found at Barrack Saddles

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ICHARD and Lucy Barrack held corporate positions in Melbourne but spent many weekends away exploring Victoria, camping and travelling, and fitting in visiting their agisted horses several times a week. It became obvious they needed to move to the country and they bought a 70-acre property north of Kyneton 15 years ago, built their home and have never looked back.

customers who appreciate our work. The practicality and usefulness of the gear we make is very important to us, but we also really enjoy the design side of things making sure our products are functional as well as beautiful.”

Over the Labour Day weekend, at the Lost Trades Fair at Kyneton Racecourse, people can catch up with Richard and Lucy as they demonstrate what they do despite the pair saying saddle making is “thankfully not a lost trade yet”.

“Saddlers are much less in demand than a century ago when horses were a In 2007, the pair made the bold decision to leave their office jobs and set off main form of transport. The trade of saddle making does now contend with the around Australia in a gooseneck horse trailer for a two-year working journey with three of their horses. They worked on livestock stations in Western Australia pressures of mass produced cheap imports, and machine made synthetic versions of products,” Richard said. and Queensland and travelled with their horses to the most amazing places – “However, the horse industry has now evolved to be an activity people partake mustering cattle, riding along beaches, across rivers, through bush and deserts, and in as a hobby. Horses are a much loved pleasure for people to enjoy by choice not through stunning Australian landscapes. necessity.

And thankfully, there will always be those customers who value quality “Always passionate about our horses, and now with many hours on horseback and their commitment to their horses and their riding leads them down the path of under our belts, we developed quite clear ideas about our gear and what we having a bespoke saddle made. wanted in a saddle,” Lucy said.

“Commendably, often our customers do not have money at their disposal and “So, in early 2010 we decided to finish our trip by spending time with a saddle work hard to save enough to purchase a saddle they will cherish for years to come. maker in Queensland. We expected saddle making would be an interesting aside – It gives us a great deal of delight to present the finished product to a customer.” we would make a saddle each and cherish it as a one off.

Richard said the couple felt lucky to be able to enjoy a “wonderful lifestyle”.

“However, we found a trade that we both enjoyed and that Richard particularly “We enjoy working together and having the opportunity to craft something had a natural talent for. So we were encouraged to return home and set up a that when finished is attractive as well as useful to its owner. We sometimes workshop in our shed. It didn’t take long for friends to want saddles and as our passion, interest, and in turn knowledge grew rapidly, Barrack Saddles was born.” feel nervous when we reveal a newly completed saddle to a client – very much wanting them to appreciate it for all the care that we put into making it.

Lucy said while they had customers from all over Australia, and even New “Lucy still has her grandmother’s saddle that is over 90 years old and how Zealand, saddle making was still a fairly locally based enterprise – people still fabulously special it would be for a Barrack Saddle to be in the hands of one of wanted to speak to and meet “their saddler” in person where possible. our customers’ grandchildren in the future.”

“We enjoy working with and for our customers. We have such a lovely base of

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News 5

Clark busy clowning around with special effects

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LARK Ashley Smith runs Altered Skin SFX Make Up & Prosthetics in Porcupine Ridge. And Daylesford resident Elicia Ward answered the call for a model to help update his gallery. After making her a very scary clown, the pair plan to work together on more special projects. Clark talked to Kyle Barnes about his work.

KB: What’s your background?

CAS: I am a signwriter of 34 years then branched out into 3D chalk pavement art and through my partner got into face and body art and progressed naturally into special effects make up and prosthetics. I went to KB: What’s the most outrageous creation you have made?

New Zealand for a two-week intense special effects CAS: There’s two. I think the Davey Jones prosthetic make up I made in and make up and prosthetic workshop with body two days in foam latex, applied and painted on myself for the Australian effects.

Body Art Awards 2014 Cospaint Ball, and the unicorn which had six separate prosthetic pieces all sculpted, made, applied and painted with full KB: How specialised is your work?

CAS: Special effects make up is very specialised as body paint for six hours in total at the Queensland Face and Body Painting it has so many different products and technical parts to Championships. it to create almost any type of prosthetic on and for the body including injury and trauma make up for film and television.

KB: How long does a scary clown take?

CAS: The time to apply prosthetics and paint the scary clown was approximately two hours. Saying that, I used prosthetics that I already made instead of making them specifically for the piece which you usually do and would take longer.

KB: What do you get out of what you do?

CAS: I get great satisfaction especially when it involves a model photographer and the end result is a ‘before and after’ and progressive shots.

Then to go out into the public and see and hear all the great input from people on the street - when they probably would never see anything like this. With Elicia I wanted to update my gallery and was also looking ahead to Halloween as that is a big time for make up. Elicia is the most amazing person to work with and I will be doing more work with her including a special project.

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6 News

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Kerbside waste collection for hamlets - but only fortnightly

H

EPBURN Shire’s smaller hamlets will receive kerbside waste collections – if council votes for the move this Tuesday evening, February 17, at Glenlyon Hall.

But households will receive only fortnightly waste and recyclables collections – with the waste bin just 140 litres and the recyclable bin 240 litres.

Council surveyed 2187 property owners in nine identified collection areas last November and December with non-responses deemed a “yes” vote.

A support rate of 65 per cent was needed for the collection service to start with no provision to opt in or out. Eight of the nine areas reached that level of support with only Trentham East missing out.

The support results were: Broomfield, Allendale, Kingston and Smeaton - 74.3 per cent Newlyn, Dean, Rocklyn, Blampied and Eganstown - 72.2 per cent Sailors Falls/Leonards Hill - 65.3 per cent Musk, Bullarto, Lyonville and Little Hampton - 67.1 per cent Drummond, Denver and Spring Hill - 70.7 per cent Glenlyon - 67.6 per cent Coomoora, Wheatsheaf and Porcupine Ridge - 66.2 per cent Franklinford, Shepherds Flat, Mt Franklin, Yandoit and Clydesdale - 68.5 per cent Trentham East - 64.8 per cent The service will replace the annual issuing of 12 tip vouchers.

Feedback from 55 property owners included that there was poor road access for heavy vehicles, a perceived undemocratic polling process, “not in poll area but would like the service”, an inability to pay for extra service and that holiday homes did not need the service.

If voted in the service will start on July 1, 2015.

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News 7

Balt Camp’s last remains

L

EONARDS Hill holds the last remains of Bullarto’s “Balt Camp”.

The camp was built at Bullarto by the Forest Commission after World War II for displaced people who had lost their countries to the Russians – the Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians of the Baltic region.

The men housed in the camp were colloquially known as “the Balts”.

Under an agreement by the then Labor Government and international authorities, 843 people were brought to Australia to work in places of need like the Snowy Mountain scheme – and Bullarto - to help cut wood for Melburnians.

Amateur historian Jack Cooper said the camp was built from 1946 to 1947 and was fully operational in 1948 with 25 two-man huts to house the migrants.

There was also a large building with a concrete floor with a fireplace and stove, and further west, a toilet and shower area. A high tank stand above a mine shaft with water pumped to the two tanks above. Power was supplied by a diesel generator.

Mr Cooper said nothing remained at Bullarto – on Camp Road - except for the chimney and floors.

“The camp closed in 1953 and was then a forest camp from 1953 to 1959. Then the YMCA ran the site as a school camp until the mid-1960s. Huts were removed to stop other activities after that and some were sold as workers’ huts for farms – three still remain on Leonards Hill painted blue-green colours.”

Mr Cooper said the men’s job entailed cutting down firewood into five foot lengths which were then carted to the roadside and sawn into foot blocks before being sent to Melbourne for firewood.

“They worked a five-day week and had the weekends off. Some walked to the Bullarto Station to go to Daylesford while others walked to Daylesford through the bush. Later the Balts used their allowance to pool their money and buy a motorbike for each hut – riding pillion – until the other man could also buy a bike too when funds permitted.

“They rode on the right hand side of the road – and some did not make it after accidents. Others drowned in Lake Daylesford after jumping in on hot days and having the cold water take them.”

Mr Cooper said staff came out daily from Daylesford while women from Bullarto did the cooking.

Photos, clockwise from left, Jack Cooper at the remains of the Balt Camp, the huts at Leonards Hill (photo by Lindsay Smith) and the camp in its glory days.

8 Opinion

Vale Curly

The Local - tlnews.com.au

17/11/1999 - 10/2/2015

W

E LOST beautiful Curly last week - and we are heartbroken.

Yes, he was 15, yes his memory was starting to fade a little, but he still had his bright button eyes, cheeky smile and soft thick fur.

Letting him go was the hardest thing we have ever done - and it was only because we loved him so, so much that we could.

But there have been a river of tears nearly every day - the house seems so empty and there are so many spots where “Curls” should be. Behind my office chair - always looking down to make sure I don’t roll on him, eating “al fresco” so he and Rosie don’t get angsty over their food, or stretched out in front of the fireplace - making sure Rosie has no room on the mat.

The collar is still waiting on the bench for a walk. We used to always say “which dog do you want?” and now there is no conversation needed. The rainbow coloured bowtie we bought him at last year’s ChillOut - just a year ago - is also just hanging on a hook. We had thought he might like to join us in the parade next month - proudly displaying his colours.

So each morning we get up, say “hello Rosie, hello Curly” and just keep working. Thank God we work from home because my face has been a blotchy red mess for days. And when we finish work, as late as possible, we just sit quietly trying to remember all the good times without crying more.

Like moving with the dogs to places like Karratha - they were loaded into the cargo area of the plane, and despite Valium, we could hear them barking from our seats all the way to Perth. Kyle swore the barking sounds were moving and wondered if they had escaped their cages. Then there was Queensland - Hervey Bay with a pool Curls loved to jump in, followed by Logan - where we had a tiny yard with cane toads. And that’s when I promised them both I would get them back to lovely Glenlyon.

And I did. And back here again we watched the dogs run around the land at the old school. Saw their reaction to snow. Kyle asking Curly to “give me a pound dawg” and getting a paw slap in return. And plenty of licks and hooking into me with his strong front paws for a hug. (Curls, not Kyle...) When Curly finally left us at 11.30am on Tuesday, February 10 - I was glad I made that promise to come home come true. A great life. Finally, thank you to everyone (and we know we are not alone going through this time) who has hugged, called, emailed and Facebooked - you all understand our pets are not like our family, they are our family. Thank you all. And Vale our beautiful boy - we will love you forever.

The Local - Connecting the Community Daylesford Football Club U/15 training Nights: Mondays & Wednesdays Time: 5pm – 6.30pm The Local believes in giving back. So welcome to The Local’s “Connecting the Community” project. Each edition The Local has two free advert spaces to give away to not-for-profit organisations. Just because we can. So, if your group needs a helping hand, email donna@tlnews.com.au If we receive more than two we will use the tried and true “put them in a hat” system but also work a little bit on timing.

Where: Senior Oval Coach: Jezza Steen

Daylesford Outside School Hours Care We are offering all day care for Prep on Wednesdays for Term 1.

Opening hours 8.30am to 6.15pm.

If you are under 15 and want to stamp your place in our team, come down, have a kick, get to know us and you won’t look back.

Fees subject to sliding scale circumstances dependant, maximum $68 to minimum $16 per day.

Ring Jezza on 0428 791 611.

Contact Julie on 5348 3702.

The Local - tlnews.com.au

On the land 9

Keeping pace with Bob Conroy

Words | Image Anthony Sawrey

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ETURNING visitors to Daylesford, entering town from Ballan, may have been startled to see the almost miraculous appearance of a wide sand covered track curling into the surrounding trees where once had been an impenetrable thicket of blackberry and gorse.

In case anyone was wondering what it is used for, it is the home of the former Daylesford Trotting Club. Built in the early 1970s, they hosted regular meetings when the surrounding country had numerous harness racing stables: a history little known to many residents today.

The track is no longer used except by long time local resident Bob Conroy of Conroy Racing Stables who, along with his family, are some of the few remaining horse trainers in the area. Over the course of a successful career he has seen the character of the town change while living with his wife Pat on a 10-acre property he bought more than 40 years ago.

Bob was born in the region and grew up in nearby Korweinguboora. In his youth he worked in a range of jobs from catching rabbits, picking spuds and clearing blackberries to working in the local bluestone quarry.

“Daylesford was a tough place to live. There was not much work about and you had to do what you could to make your way,” Bob recalled.

He remembers how up to the 1970s, Daylesford was a far different town to the one we see today. It was run down, many of the old guesthouses were derelict and there certainly were no classy restaurants or gift shops.

“We used to let our cattle graze in the back yards of many of the old places around here. They were all abandoned and falling down so no one objected.”

Eventually Bob was able to concentrate on harness racing training full-time and of his five children, three have continued in the industry as drivers and trainers.

Obviously the Conroy harness racing tradition continues and has some life left in it yet. While Bob may tend to take things a bit easier these days, he still keeps around 20 horses at his property and exercises them in the surrounding area.

He has several kilometres of track winding through the bush next to Sailors Creek and is somewhat bemused to learn that he is one of the sights to see for any visiting bushwalker.

“I’ve always done it and it’s nothing unusual to me. All I’m doing is just keeping my horses fit by honest means.”

10 News

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A Sparkling Life (AN ONGOING column by Marian Sidwell and her recollection of living in Daylesford - and early childhood memories. The first excerpt ran in The Local, Issue 28, September 15, 2014. Back issues at tlnews.com.au) Drawing by Daylesford artist Brian Nash art@briannash.com.au Trips to Nana’s house we did not enjoy much unless our cousins were visiting too. She lived with her other daughter in a horrible dark old house near the river in Maribyrnong. We caught a tram from the city and got out just after the bridge in Maribyrnong Road. I enjoyed the tram rides better than the visits. The only things Nana’s old house had going for it were the chooks down the back and perhaps the two shilling piece she would press into our hands as we left. She seemed very old to me and I always felt that we kids were nothing but a nuisance to her. The only escape we had while the three grown-ups sat in the kitchen drinking tea was to the front concrete verandah or to the tiny little front room housing a massive cold brown leather lounge suite and shelves of books smelling more mouldy than the ones in our library at home.

Sometimes Nana would let us feed the chooks, but even then she seemed to be mumbling to herself while getting the pollard out of the bin. She was forever warning us about bad things that could happen to us; even to the point of telling us not to let our boyfriends know how much money we had in our bank books.

We hardly knew what a bank book was, let alone a boyfriend!

Our visits to Uncle Harry’s, dad’s brother, although not that often, were enjoyed no end. The fact he had a wooden leg I think had a lot to do with it. He had a button on the side of it which made it bend like a knee when he needed to sit down.

He would pretend he was nearly falling over because we had forgotten to tell him to press the button. He was a lovely uncle with a quiet voice and lots of stories to tell. Nice stories, not war stories. Yes, a talking cocky out the back and home movies inside made for great visits.

Richmond in those days must have been a fairly safe place for kids because we were allowed to roam far and wide within and around it. There were of course the occasional ‘flashers’ who would appear outside some of the many hotels that dotted the area. They never bothered us. It was just a case of – seen one, seen them all! We told dad once and couldn’t understand why we finished up at the police station trying to remember what the upper half of the man looked like!

I never forgave those flashers because they put paid to our wonderful days at Point Ormond Beach. During the school holidays, both winter and summer, we’d walk to the end of our street and catch the green tramways bus at Punt Road which would take us and our gear all the way to the beach wall. Most days we would climb up onto it and walk on it all the way to Elwood where the beach, depending the season, was better either to play on or swim in. During the polio epidemic we were not allowed to go to any beach because they said the germ was being carried in the sand. Even though the scare was over, many people were disinclined to go so we kids quite often had the foreshore all to ourselves. We loved the winter trips nearly as much as the summer ones. We’d run up the Point Ormond hill and watch the cargo ships and liners coming into Port Melbourne. We’d run down the hill, climb the sea wall but because of the ‘flashers’ we now had mum watching us and somehow it was never the same again.

Here is the solution to last week’s crossword. This week’s crossword is on page 20. All the answers are somewhere in The Local. Good luck!

News 11

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Whoops. Wrong date!

G

ET your wetsuits out and dust off the goggles - the 6th Lake Daylesford Swim Classic will be held on Sunday, February 22.

A keenly contested event, the swim sees enthusiastic swimmers complete a lap around Lake Daylesford - with plenty of cheering from the shore.

Registration is at 10am with the race starting at 11am. The course distance is 1.3km.

The event is a fundraiser for the Bacau Health Clinic in East Timor and there are plenty of prizes on offer.

All competent swimmers, like those pictured right finishing last year’s race, are welcome to enter.

Oh, one of those pictured right, was also the one who got the date wrong! Make sure you put Sunday, February 22 in your diaries...just sayin’.

ford Dayles 3460

39 Albert Street, Daylesford Thursday to Monday, 10am - 5pm

12 ANZAC 100

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Gallipoli presentation Words | Image Cheryl Johnson

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ORLD recognised Gallipoli authority and author Dr V. John Basarin, pictured right, is sharing an eye-opening account of the Anzac conflict at a free lunchtime presentation hosted by Daylesford RSL in March.

In his talk Gallipoli – the Turkish story - Dr Basarin describes the campaign from the Turkish side of the trenches that resulted in the deaths or wounding of nearly 500,000 soldiers from all sides.

Mark a noon start on Thursday, March 12 in your diary for light refreshments followed by Dr Basarin’s revealing presentation at Daylesford RSL sub branch in Vincent Street. While entry is free, all donations towards the RSL’s cenotaph refurbishment centenary project will be gratefully received.

The event is part of Daylesford’s ANZAC 100 centenary commemorations and Dr Basarin’s talk will be especially poignant for Daylesford CFA. Bob Anderson, the fire station’s first CFA volunteer to join up after war was declared in August 1914, was killed in action on the first day of the Anzac assault at Gallipoli.

Dr Basarin’s PhD thesis Battlefield Tourism: Anzac Day Commemorations at Gallipoli, investigated factors that make a pilgrimage to the battlefield site so satisfying for Australians and how their experiences translate into strong recommendations that others do the same.

Currently project managing the Gallipoli 2015 cruise project, Dr Basarin is coordinating travel for 700 Australians and New Zealanders attending the centenary Anzac Day dawn service.

Dr Basarin has led numerous tours to the region and for the past six years has worked on Rotary Youth Exchange programs enabling many young students to visit Turkey for Anzac Day dawn and Lone Pine ceremonies. Dr Basarin has also organised high school students and primary school teachers from around the country to travel to Turkey and Gallipoli, in his role as the chairman of Friends of Gallipoli Inc, a not-for-profit organisation.

This work, along with his commitment to promoting international understanding of the Gallipoli campaign, earned him the 2010 Anzac Peace Prize awarded by the RSL. In 2005, he received the Victorian Premier’s Award for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs for his long standing efforts towards uniting cultures.

An oil and gas chemical engineer by profession, Dr Basarin has held a lifelong interest in the history and understanding of the Gallipoli campaign since his father first took him to Gallipoli as a 10-year-old.

Dr Basarin said that on May 19, 1915 after a massive Turkish attack, hundreds of dead soldiers from Anzac and Turkish forces were left lying where they fell for five days before a ceasefire allowed them to be removed and buried.

He says: “After the burials, the opposing armies had a chance to exchange gifts and a hand shake then it started all over again.

“It is important to continue to talk about and remember the tragic waste of a generation of young men and human potential. It is necessary more than ever. The tragic consequences of war never change.”

For bookings or event information contact Daylesford RSL secretary Ken Dowling on 5348 3792.

ANZAC 100 has chosen The Local as its media partner to bring the community all the news leading up to the commemoration of the first Anzac Day. Every edition of The Local will include stories and photos about the people and organisations who are working towards making the 100th anniversary one of the most memorable and moving events seen in Daylesford. Make sure you pick up your hard copy or read online at www.tlnews.com.au

Dr Shelley L Beer Chinese Medicine

2/12 Abert St., Daylesford.

New option. Reduced cost sessions Community Open Group Acupuncture Tuesday 2pm -5.30pm. Thursday 9.30am - noon.

Drop in any time while session is open Express needling on chairs at the SAME time as others $30 (cash).

OR confirmed bookings of 4 arriving together, $5 off each Private consultations still by appointment Tuesday to Saturday ph 0417 036 153. www.tcmconsultancy.com

DAYLESFORD RSL

HEPBURN SHIRE

What do you do after a hard day’s night at the Chillout Festival, dancing, enjoying local wines, eating out and taking it easy (or hard) at the local Daylesford spas? Well, Chill at the Mill of course!

The Amazing Mill Markets is the perfect shopping partner to your weekend – we have an incredible array of things to see and buy at our market, just 30 seconds easy drive from the centre of Daylesford. Inside you’ll find a cornucopia of vintage, retro and contemporary fashion for all – you could find your perfect outfit to wear to the bush dance, or even perhaps the street parade! We also have tonnes of interesting collectibles, antiques, art, home décor, industrial chic – ideal for adorning your home space or perhaps a friend’s! Come out for a visit, grab yourself a coffee made with love (and a bit of cheek!) by our resident superstar barista, Miss Cara Couture and while away the day exploring our Amazing space.

The Amazing Mill Markets wishes all of our visitors to beautiful Daylesford for the Chillout Festival a wonderful and refreshing weekend and we look forward to welcoming you to Chill at the Mill!

14 Springs Medical Centre

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Advertorial

Springs committed to education and training Say g’day to future GPs

Dr Adam Rouse was born in the UK but emigrated to Australia at the age of seven. A Deakin University student he studied for two years at Geelong, followed by a year at Daylesford and then a year at Ballarat Base Hospital where he also worked as an intern and second-year hospital medical officer. Dr Rouse has also just completed six months’ obstetrics/gynaecology with a view to completing a diploma in that field.

“I love the great variety of patients and cases here and the workplace culture and environment are very suited to those with young families.”

Dr Darren McCorry emigrated to Australia from Northern Ireland as a child and studied medicine at the University of Melbourne, working most recently at Ballarat Base Hospital in general medicine, obstetrics, anaesthetics, palliative care, pain medicine and emergency. With a house between Ballarat and Daylesford he loves the “small town and quaint country”.

Dr Falak Naz comes from Pakistan and worked most recently at Ballarat Base Hospital. She has an Advanced Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology HIS year sees Springs Medical Centre take on its largest cohort of general practice registrars and believes Springs Medical Centre offers “the ever.

The centre, which prides itself on delivering excellence in training and education to the next generation best working environment, a beautiful town and friendly people”. of medical and allied health practitioners, has six GP Registrars including Dr Adam Rouse, a returning graduate Dr Jane Foley comes from Dublin in Ireland, of Deakin School of Medicine who completed an Integrated Model of Medical Education in Rural Settings then New Zealand, then Sydney then Melbourne.

(IMMERSe) year with the centre in 2011.

She has had a lot of experience in women’s health Adding to the centre is also medical student Lukas Marchant, an already qualified physiotherapist. and says the region reminds her of her home Centre general manager Lynda Poke said Springs Medical Centre had “a strong culture” of education and training supporting the dedicated medical workforce in Daylesford and Trentham to continue to meet the growing country.

“There is also a mix of patients and I enjoy the and complex health needs of the community. ongoing relationships with them and the continuity Ms Poke said it was important that people realised that the GP Registrars were fully qualified doctors, starting a career in general practice, often bringing essential and diverse clinical experience and skills to the primary care of care. It feels like there is a nice community spirit here.” setting. Many have worked in hospitals in Australia and overseas for a number of years.

Dr Ruth Spencer hails from the UK and was “The GP registrars and medical students here are already very competent and professional in their own right. working as a fly in/fly out emergency doctor They often come here with very extensive medical backgrounds. For example, Dr Vladimir Ulanov is a trained at Broken Hill Hospital before joining Springs neurologist in Russia, Dr Falak Naz has advanced experience and skills in obstetrics and gynaecology and Dr Medical Centre about 18 months ago. She also Ruth Spencer has extensive experience in emergency medicine. So our registrars bring additional skills into our practice which is incredibly beneficial for both staff and clients. It is an asset to have a diverse medical workforce has experience as an emergency doctor at Monash in a group practice because we can work together in a collaborative and supportive way. We recognise continuity Medical Centre and Dandenong Hospital in Melbourne. of care is important and our appointment system is structured in a way that you can generally book ahead to see “I love the huge variety - you never know what your own doctor. If you have an urgent ‘on the day need’ we always have a doctor available and when this is not the day is going to bring. And it’s nice to be able your own doctor your information is available to the new doctor for review. to get to know my patients as well so I can follow “I also think it is important for the community to value what an opportunity and a privilege it is to have them up and have good continuity of care - this was such a group of talented and highly qualified general practice registrars and medical students, who also live in something I really missed out on when working in our community, and reflect the diversity of the community and maintain a medical workforce for Daylesford, the emergency department.”

Hepburn and Trentham. This is always an ongoing challenge for smaller rural communities. And we also Dr Vladimir Ulanov trained at Nizhny have our general practice nurses and other clinicians offering their expertise, providing health services and Novgorood in Russia and worked at the Flinders information, because we are not only a service for people who are unwell or suffering chronic conditions – we Medical Centre in South Australia. He has special are also about promoting good health and maintaining wellness.” skills and interests in neurology and preventive Ms Poke said doctors, nurses and other allied health practitioners who completed some or all of their training healthcare and enjoys the “variety of medical and education in rural and regional Australia were also more likely to stay or return to live and work in rural presentations”. communities.

Dr Ulanov is also keen on the region’s “beautiful “Being part of training and education gives us a head start in recruiting a skilled and available health country”, bushwalking, fishing and restaurants. workforce for our rural towns like Daylesford, Hepburn and Trentham.”

Meanwhile medical student Lukas Marchant Ms Poke said the commitment to education and training, from seven qualified, accredited and passionate senior hails from Queensland and has been working general practitioners was to be commended. in the health field for five years including as a “Our supervisors are to be congratulated on being recognised as leaders in their profession, capable of physiotherapist. educating its future members by sharing experience, expertise and professional ethics. It is the relationship Lukas loves the country way of life so close to between the supervisor and registrar and student that is at the heart of the learning experience. Supervising a the major services of Ballarat and Melbourne and registrar and student places significant responsibility on the supervisor and the practice. While these demands include the requirements and standards imposed by the Australian General Practice Training Program and Deakin sees himself “lucky” to be chosen to take on the Daylesford role this year.

University, it is an investment that is very worth our while.”

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Above, from left to right, Dr Jane Foley, Dr Ruth Spencer, Lukas Marchant (Deakin Medical Student), Dr Falak Naz, Dr Adam Rouse, Dr Darren McCorry and Dr Vladimir Ulanov.

SPRINGS MEDICAL CENTRE

For bookings or enquiries please call | SMS Loretta on 0401 481 130 or

Google | scan

NEW DOCTORS & MEDICAL STUDENT

Motion Massage Daylesford

TRENTHAM

&

MAKERS MARKET

Two Markets – One location Spring has sprung – The grass is ris – I wonder where the birdies is???

We are very pleased to welcome Dr Jane Foley Dr Darren McCorry Dr Adam Rouse All consulting from our Daylesford Campus & Lukas Marchant 2015 IMMERSe Deakin Medical Student Appointments can be made by contacting 5348 2227.

www.springsmedical.com.au

The Town Square in Trendy Trentham The Trentham Farmers Market has joined with Trentham Makers Market

Third Saturday, 9am – 1pm

Country Market Leonard’s Hill Hall Saturday, February 21 9am - 2pm Plants, Sausage Sizzle, Jewellery, Devonshire Teas, Wines, Preserves, Crafts, Collectables & much more STALL HOLDERS WANTED (No Take Away Food Stalls) Enq/bookings phone 5348 3351 or 5348 6569

TRENTHAM PETROL & STUFF

1 Market St PH 5424 1611 Mon - Sat 8am - 6pm Sun 9am - 6pm

Petrol, oils, swap & go gas, firewood permits, farm produce / produce store, ice, milk, soft drinks, take-away pies, coffee, confectionery, local honey etc. rusty junk, secondhand books, old wares

TRENTHAM STATION SUNDAY MARKET Victoria Street, Trentham On the fourth Sunday of each month 8.30am - 2.30pm Enquiries/Bookings – Kaye / Leigh 5424 1466 or Ross 5424 1509 A great variety of stalls in and around the beautiful Trentham Station **Permanent carriage stalls open every weekend** Including - Craft in the Carriage, Kaye’s Soaps and Candles, Leigh’s Homemade Preserves, Snax on the Trax & Trentham Olde Worlde Lolly Shoppe Trentham - Always relaxed and refreshing!

16 News

Franklinford walk for GDTA

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FRANKLINFORD Walk for the Great Dividing Trail Association will be held on Sunday, February 22.

Walkers will meet at 9am in the Mt Franklin crater for a 9.30am walk departure and will return to the crater, after lunch at Clarke’s Pool, by 2pm. Non-GDTA members welcome ($5 per person).

The walk’s highlights will include the way volcanoes and basalt flows shaped the local landscapes, notion of contact, the way history is preserved within place names such as Jim Crow Creek and the ‘formal’ discovery of the Clunes and other alluvial Goldfields (from mid-1851), then its very rich quartz mines from 1856, including the Argus line of reef in Daylesford, extensively mined in the Cornish Hill area.

Register with numbers walking to Barry Golding by email to barry@cbl.com.au or phone 5345 6343 by Wednesday, February 18 giving a phone contact number in case dangerous weather intervenes. A car shuffle is being arranged.

Non GDTA members pay $5 on the day. Bring a cut lunch and drink and be prepared for 11km of mainly roadside walking interspersed with interpretation.

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Trentham Food Hub talks

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RENTHAM Food Hub is hosting two events later this month – a focus group workshop for local farmers and a soil health workshop.

The first will be held at The Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham on Thursday, February 26 from 7pm.

Organiser Justin Walsh said local farmers were invited to take part in an evening of focus groups to define the current lie of the land for agriculture in the area and explore new opportunities.

“The evening is part of a research and development project to promote the future of farming in the Upper Campaspe - Coliban catchment region.

“The outcomes of the evening will guide the direction of local farming initiatives through the food hub over the next two years and contribute to business plans and fundraising for these initiatives.”

A light supper will be provided and drinks will be available at the bar. This is a free event however participants are asked to register for catering purposes.

The second event will also be held at The Cosmopolitan Hotel on Saturday, February 28 from 9am to 1pm.

Mr Walsh said the soil health workshop, which is supported by the North Central Catchment Management Authority, was part of the Woodend Sustainable Living Festival.

“2015 is the International Year of Soils and there has never been a better time to learn about this essential building block of our food system and all life on earth,” he said.

“This workshop will provide an introduction to soil health and biology, focusing on why soil is important, what constitutes healthy soil and measures that can be implemented for healthy soil.

Participants will also gain an introduction to the soil food web and soil assessments that can be implemented by farmers and gardeners.

“The workshop includes morning tea and will be facilitated by Lyn Kelson, a local soil health consultant also known as The Green Cocky.”

Tickets for the workshop are $10.

Tickets, bookings and reservations: trenthamfodhub.org or Justin Walsh on 0418 543 944.

The Trentham Food Hub is a not-for- profit community enterprise established to support local producers and the food economy.

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18 Happy & Healthy

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Shamanic Healing Healing is within Us Intuitive Counselling Illuminations Soul Retrieval Extractions Readings

Jaqi Mudge 0423 499 901

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What’s not to love at EKO this February?

Indulge in a foot soak, hydrating facial and relaxation massage for only $99 To make an appointment please call: 5348 3154 or 0429 681 030 (Available Mon-Sat only)

Gift Vouchers Available 1 Camp Street, Daylesford 0429 681 030 | 5348 3154 www.ekospa.com.au

S

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Happy & Healthy 19

ARAH Leeworthy experimented with yoga and its different styles throughout her early 20s but it wasn’t until a life-changing trip to Nepal in 2010 where everything started to fall into place. She told her story to editor Donna Kelly

“I had not set off with the intention of my trip being all about yoga but that is how it happened after meeting my teacher Dr Chetnath Adhikari through some Nepalese friends within the first few days. I spent six months with Chetnath, completing Hatha yoga teacher training, reiki 1 and 2, massage qualifications as well as experience working and teaching in the clinic and co-authoring a book with my teacher.

After leaving Nepal and heading back to the Mornington Peninsula I found Ashtanga Yoga, which had me hooked from the first class. I fell in love with the holistic practice that gives great importance to the breath, flow of Vinyasa and equally building both strength and flexibility. And when practiced as the traditional self practice - Mysore style - Ashtanga has the ability to take you deeper as you are focusing on and building your own individual practice.

I went on to complete an Ashtanga Yoga teacher training through Centered Yoga.

I then taught at The Yoga Room in Mornington where I instructed regular classes for beginners through to advanced - guided and Mysore, introductory courses, organised group cleansing programs and helped out with retreats as well as running programs for school groups and camps on yoga and mindfulness.

From here my friends Veronica and Steve Whitter invited me to join them at Continental House, Hepburn Springs, where I worked as assistant manager and yoga teacher setting up regular classes for the locals as well as running workshops and retreats for all.

Yoga is not just a practice I do on my mat but something I continually try to bring in to all aspects of my life. Through my dedication to my yogic practices I have made and observed huge shifts and changes internally and externally, I am excited by this life long journey ahead of me and also looking back to how far I have come. And so with love and dedication I continue my studies and daily practices in order to gain experience, to learn, grow and to be of support and guidance to my students on their journey.

I have recently made the decision to focus solely on my true passions in collaboration with my partner Paul, adding a new branch into the established

RedSpa Sanctuary Massage, Shiatsu, Bowen Therapy Midweek/locals’ specials Health rebates 0422 103 569 www.redspasanctuary.com.au

business of Natures Wheel. I continue to run regular weekly classes in both Hatha and Ashtanga yoga at Continental House, with beginner’s yoga courses set to start at Inside Out Dance Theatre soon. I will also be facilitating a yoga and wellness retreat in March and alongside Paul will run a yoga and dance retreat in July which will be a collaboration of both our skill sets and knowledge.”

20 Crossword

The Local - tlnews.com.au

DAYLESFORD

COTTAGE DIRECTORY

Phone: 03 5348 1255 Mobile: 0438 662 201 41 Albert Street, Daylesford

rETREAT | Relax | reTURN

www.cottagedirectory.com.au stay@cottagedirectory.com.au

The Local - tlnews.com.au

ChillOut 21

ChillOut at Carnival Day

Y

EE-haw.

Step right up for all the fun of the country fair ChillOut’s big LGBTIQ super family fun day – Carnival Day – is on Sunday, March 8.

This year’s festival theme is queer country pride, think cowboy boots, big hats and even bigger hair - all the dazzle and sparkles you can carry.

ChillOut Festival entertainment director Tanya Baricevich said Carnival Day offered something for everybody.

“There is live music all day on the main stage featuring BABBA, Video Video, Monique Brumby, Stereogamous, the wildest blues woman on the planet Z-star (UK), I Vagabondi and our much loved Dolly Diamond and Luke Gallagher. Come and ChillOut with friends, family and loved ones. Meet new friends. Bring the kids. Bring your fur baby (dog) which you can enter in the Dog Show and maybe win a prize.

“With favourites like the tug of war - will the lesbians win again? Ever wanted to try clogging? And there are heaps of free activities for the kids including Water Orbs.”

Ticket are $25 online, $30 at the gate, $20 concession online and $25 concession at the gate. Kids 14 years and under are free, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Bean bag hire is available for $12 and can be booked online when tickets are bought.

Photo above - Michelle Dunn Photography

Tickets and details: chilloutfestival.com.au The Local is ChillOut’s official media partner.

E

VERY year during the Labour Day weekend, this region plays host to the largest festival of its kind in the southern hemisphere – ChillOut.

ChillOut Festival entertainment director Tanya Baricevich said ChillOut would not happen without its many sponsors and partners.

“This year we are asking festival goers to support those businesses and organisations who support us and support ChillOut’s official events. ChillOut sponsors, partners and official events are easily recognisable because they will display a rather large flag. ChillOut has limited supporter opportunities available. If you have not been approached by ChillOut you can email us at info@chilloutfestival.com.au for a Supporter Information Pack.”

Advertorial

Spanish feast on offer at Sault with Santi

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T’S all about stunning “comida” at Sault next month.

That’s food in Spanish! Or really, it’s more of a feast.

On March 20, after canapes at 7pm and entrees at 7.30pm, Sault’s head chef Santiago Nine-Fernandez will chat with guests about his inspiration for the menu for the evening from his home town of Galicia.

Galicia is known in Spain as the “land of the 1000 rivers”. For good reason. The rivers cross from the mountainous inland to the coast where they form “rias” – areas which were once river valley and estuaries which are now covered by the risen seawater.

And that is why the Galician coast - where the Cantabrian Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean - makes such a fertile area for seafood.

Galicia’s folklore clearly shows its Celtic and Gaelic origins with regional gastronomy of great reputation for its excellent fish, Empanada Gallega (a typical pie of fish or meat), traditional sweets prepared in some monasteries - where the recipes are kept in secret - and the Albarino wine.

So you can understand where Santi’s love of all things from the sea comes from. And that Sault Restaurant owners Damien and Jodi want to celebrate Santi’s talent and present a night that showcases his origins.

Among the tempting dishes on offer are canapes such as oyster with escabeche sauce, cucumber and lime or grilled octopus, confit potato, black garlic aioli, edamame, paprika, olive oil.

Then there is the entree - grilled king prawn, bomba rice, saffron, prawn essence, hazelnut romesco, and the main - roasted corn-fed duck breast, chestnut purée, duck liver parfait, grilled wood mushroom, Pedro Ximenez sauce.

And if that’s not enough there is a pre-dessert (wow) - red fruits sangria, red wine and ice cream, followed by dessert - Santiago tart, orange blossom cream and cherry sorbet.

The cost is $120 per person and includes a glass of wine on arrival with Spanish wines available on the night.

Bookings are being taken – so call 5348 6555 now to ensure your place at this “espanol” feast. And for the full menu head to www.sault.com.au

The Local - tlnews.com.au

22 News

Almost end of summer reading

S

UZANNE Gibbs wrote Pressure Cooker Recipes for Every Day to share the “joy about something we think is wonderful”.

“The pressure cooker is so easily able to transform our lives in the kitchen and at the table with fabulous healthy food that I want the world to know and to enjoy the benefits.

I use the pressure cooker every day, right through the year.

“For me cooking and eating well goes hand in hand with a healthy and happy lifestyle, I want my readers to adopt the habit of cooking to enrich their lives with an understanding that eating well doesn’t have to cost the earth.

“In creating my pressure cooker cookbooks in particular, I was surprised that the pressure cooker can cook with very little liquid, sometimes none (if there is enough natural moisture in the food). This is why the results taste so good, nothing has been watered down.”

POP-UP GARDEN

PARTY

Join us for a REFRESHING pimm’s NO 1 COCKTAIL in the garden with a hit of badminton, a game of bocce, a turn at giant jenga or perhaps a spot of quoits...

LIVE DJ BIG KID GAMES FESTIVAL VIBES FOOD AVAILABLE fully stocked bar

SAT 7 + SUN 8 MARCH 12PM - LATE / LABOUR DAY (CHILLOUT) WEEKEND

the convent garden / theconvent.com.au / p: 5348 3211

M

ASTERCHEF favourite Amina Elshafei is blessed with a rich family history – her mum is Korean, and her dad is Egyptian.

In Amina’s Home Cooking, she takes readers on a unique culinary adventure, exploring the best cuisine from both cultures.

Here in her long-awaited cookbook are recipes for traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as Lamb, Prune and Fig Tagine and Korean staples such as Kimchi, as well as exciting new recipes, such as Sumac-crusted Trout with Heirloom Tomato Salsa and Harissa Chicken.

Amina’s mouth-watering multicultural cuisine is a revelation – this is food to share and savour.

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Advertorial 23

New owners for iconic Blackwood Hotel

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HE Blackwood Hotel may have the longest continuous liquor licence for a weatherboard pub in Australia – but it has new owners.

Brothers-in-law and great mates Darren Lynch and Michael Boyd have bought the iconic pub along with former scaffolder Darren Askew.

Also lending a hand are bistro and dining room boss Michelle Nitz and chef Nicole Paul – who hails from Port Arlington and will be bringing up fresh seafood including mussels, garfish, scallops and prawns each week.

The Blackwood Hotel has been serving customers since it opened its doors in 1868 and is ready for a new lease of life 147 years later in 2015.

Darren Lynch has been in hospitality most of his life with a family hotel and family cafeteria in the past. In fact, showing their early entrepreneur style, he and Michael started a pizza shop in the 1980s “for a bit of fun” and decided to try a home delivery idea as a bit of a novelty.

“There were four of us involved and we thought it was a novel idea and did a bit of a leaflet drop. We got thousands of phone calls that night and had to take the phone off the hook.”

The Blackwood Hotel move came with Michael living in the village for the past six years.

“We were looking to get back into business together and the pub came up for sale, we made an offer and we were successful.”

And really, it was a no-brainer. Michael had been teaching for 14 years and then in the restaurant trade for another 21 years. He moved to Blackwood to “relax and rewind”, but found, like most people the wrong side of 55, that it was a struggle to find work.

“Darren (Lynch) was the same, so we decided to buy ourselves jobs. We love the town, love the people and the town needs a strong community hub and the pub can be that.”

Darren (Askew), a scaffolder by trade, could see the writing on the wall for his industry, and when the boys asked if he was keen to take on the bar, he jumped at the idea.

“I just love the atmosphere, I love the slow pace, I love all the local lads. They are funny characters once you get to know them.”

And between the three new owners, Nicole and Michelle, there are plans afoot to expand the trade “but not change the atmosphere of the pub itself”.

“We will be improving the food, improving the lights, improving the service – and with that comes a better experience for our clientele,” Darren (Lynch) said.

“We have made a complete change to the menu, every dish is different. And all our ingredients are sourced fresh on a weekly basis – and stays fresh. There is nothing frozen.”

Above, from left, Darren Lynch, Nicole Paul, Michelle Nitz, Darren Askew and Michael Boyd, below, from left, Michael and Darren at the bar

Nicole, who is bringing all that lovely seafood, said her inspiration came from offering traditional slow cooked recipes and modern Australia cuisine.

She will also be conjuring up her Asian and Mexican backgrounds to offer unique flavours with a modern twist.

Meanwhile, the hotel is trialling music on Sundays from noon to 4pm with great success pleasing good crowds and offering spots to a variety of entertainers each week. Saturday afternoons, from 2pm to 6pm are next on the agenda – just to see how the punters respond.

And if you are looking for a venue with a difference for a private function, there is seating for about 120 inside and outside, a great dance floor and the ability to pipe music throughout.

For those who don’t want to go home, or have had that extra wine, there are also three motel rooms available – two doubles and a queen – with continental breakfast thrown in.

So if it’s been a while since you’ve been to the Blackwood, hit the road and wander up the hill. There’s plenty to like.

The Blackwood Hotel, Martin Street, Blackwood. Phone: 5368 6501.

The Local - tlnews.com.au

24 Music

Our Musos

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ERRY Murray worked with artists like Tom Jones, Davy Jones of the Monkees, Brotherhood of Man and Cilla Black before moving to Australia from England. Once here, he kept up the guitar gigs and also played at birthday functions for Kerry Packer, Bryan Brown and Sam Neill. He met Tamworth-born Gillian Eastoe through a mutual friend and drummer, Tommy Emmanual. She had been performing with a band which had two appearances on Countdown and performed with acts including Jon English, Jimmy Barnes, Air Supply, Dragon, Rose Tattoo and Tom Waits. The pair now perform for children on ABC tours – but luckily for the rest of us, also manage to make it to a few local venues. The Local’s music guru Kyle Barnes caught up with Gillian for a chat about the couple, pictured right.

KB: How did you get the ABC gig?

GE: I left to have two children in 1984 and 1986 which in turn led me to be signed up by ABC for KIDS where I wrote for and released three albums Jellybean Jar, Insects and Bugs and The Intergalactical Album. Terry and I began working regularly for ABC on tours with a stable of ABC kids’ artists such as Mic Conway, Monica Trapaga, George Spartels, The Wiggles, Don Spencer, Peter Coombes etc. Then ended up being asked to sign up to Nexus Arts and perform rock shows in schools (eight different shows, some high school and ballsy, some interactive primary shows) all over Australia. Terry and I have been constantly employed in this genre for nearly 25 years now and still perform in pubs and at private and public functions whenever time and tours allow.

KB: How did you get into music?

GE: Terry knew almost instantly that he wanted to play guitar for a living. His dad was an accomplished pianist in England. I started out as a pre-school teacher but always wanted to sing and would go to as many little gigs as possible and ask if I could get up and sing and was (fortunately) warmly welcomed back to most.

KB: What is your genre?

GE: I think the thing that has enabled both Terry and I to continue to be employed for our whole life - and even survive - is that we are able to be comfy with any style needed. Terry and I have both performed at jazz venues, country and western venues, kids’ things, heavy rock, blues… We do however tend towards rock and blues. Terry plays acoustic and electric guitar with equal astounding ease, but also plays piano and bass. I sing of course and play upright drums.

KB: What are your favourite venues around the region?

GE: I would have to say that the venue we love the most is Radio Springs Hotel because Ken took us on unheard about three or four years ago when we first approached him and he trusted us. (One of the weirdest things when you’ve been a muso for so long without being an “overnight sensation” is that is that you have to keep proving to people that you’re good enough despite your 20-mile long history.

And having been mainly Sydney-based, breaking into Victoria was hard, pub wise.) The previous and current owner of the Guildford Pub have both been great to us. Ian at The Grande is absolutely wonderful and we had the best night there on January 30 with our Women of Rock show. It is such a great idea what Ian is doing. We do parties now regularly for people who have seen us at gigs which we absolutely love doing.

KB: What do you hope people get from your music?

GE: Hard question...it means whatever each person gets out of it. You can’t be everyone’s cup of tea. But we have found if you want to reach the majority at any given venue, you have people who want to laugh, cry, sing-along and enjoy their time with you and if you can give them that musically, they’ve had a good time.

We do heaps of covers, but in our own way because people love stuff they know but are knocked out if you personalise it with your own stamp.

KB: Where can people see you next?

GE: Friday, February 20 at The Grande Hotel, Hepburn Springs, Saturday, February 21 at Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville and Sunday, February 22 at the Guildford Pub in the beer garden. Then the school tours kick in big time so up until April holidays we’ll be flat chat with them.

Dolly Diamond at Bellinzona Saturday 7 March 2015 Bar open 6.30pm | Dinner served 7.30pm Show from 9.00pm Guest starring: Rachel Dunham & Luke Gallagher A great night not to be missed!

You will be given 5 star treatment with tickets including 2 course dinner and admission to the show!

Grange Bellinzona, 77 Main Rd Hepburn Springs Limited places available - tickets $85 per person (printed tickets must be presented for entry on the night) Enquires call Sue on (03) 5348 2271

Bookings: chilloutfestival.com.au/buy tickets

Photo supplied by Robbie Noakes

Show this ad in store and receive

20% off 4 or more bottles of wine One per customer per day.

Conditions apply - see staff for details Offer ends 01/03/15 Cellarbrations @ foxxy’s Our region’s largest local and boutique wine specialists Open every day until late 55 Vincent Street, Daylesford Tel: 03 5348 3577

26 Dining

The Local - tlnews.com.au

BEER GARDEN

THURSDAY Locals Menu

$15 Mains

PUB OF THE

YEAR

2 courses $25 / 3 courses $30 Open Thursday to Saturday 12 noon - late, Sunday 12 noon - 4pm 31 High Street, Trentham (03) 5424 1144

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FRIDAY FREE Glass of Wine with each a-la-carte main course

26 - 28 Albert Street Daylesford 5348 3711

Summertime.

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We have the largest balcony and the biggest beer garden in town so you can enjoy our fantastic meals and summery cold drinks enjoying the outdoors either overlooking the town or under the shade of big trees in our huge private beer garden.

With a great new menu and refurbished pub-style accommodation,we’ve got Summer covered.

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For Cafe Bookings Phone Matt: 0409 585 967 For Tours or Group Bookings phone Maria: 0400 854 029

Open 7 Days from noon FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE OR CALL US ON 03 5348 2335

DAYLESFORDHOTEL.COM.AU

At the Old Macaroni Factory Licensed Pasta Restaurant: 64 Main Road, Hepburn Springs Come sip the wine, eat the pasta and enjoy the ambience or take a tour of the oldest Italian building in Australia.

Open: Wednesday to Sunday Breakfast & Lunch 8am to 3pm Friday & Saturday nights Dinner from 6pm

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Nom nom nom 27

Drop in for a perfect dining experience Words: Nick Bunning Images: Lindsay Smith.

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HERE’S a new Locals’ Night in town, and it’s creating quite a buzz – with locals and visitors.

Christine Molloy, owner of the Perfect Drop Wine Bar & Restaurant, has come up with a great way to showcase the culinary talents of head chef Hugh Maxwell - formerly of Bendigo’s acclaimed Dispensary Enoteca. Every Wednesday night, they offer a five-course Locals’ Menu for $50 a head – and this includes a glass of Italian prosecco or a pot of Holgate Pale Ale on arrival.

The Drop’s Locals’ Night has been running for just a few weeks, and it’s certainly proving popular – with good reason, as we discovered on a recent visit.

There’s plenty of seating at tables and booths in the funky dining area, or you can dine al fresco in the courtyard if you prefer. We opted for a comfortable booth and our attentive waiter Rich made sure we were soon clutching glasses of prosecco while we perused the menu.

He explained that all five courses were taken from The Drop’s regular menu, and the selection changes regularly.

You can also order a la carte on Locals’ Night if you prefer.

But as soon as we read that night’s $50 selection, we knew it was a no-brainer.

The first course soon appeared, and it was a perfect entrée for a warm summer night. The appealing share plate included watermelon cubes, Holy Goat piccolo cheese, radish, basil and grapefruit pearls. All delicious on their own, but mind-blowingly good when you combine a little of each on your fork.

Our second share plate consisted of two chickpea battered zucchini flowers, with pea and scallop stuffing, on a cauliflower puree. Light and crispy on the outside, with the pea and scallop providing a delicious combination of flavours inside. Amazingly good.

Time to check out Perfect Drop’s extensive wine, beer and cocktail list. Wines are available by the glass from $7.50, and we both opted for a glass of Awatere River Sauvignon Blanc ($10) from Marlborough, NZ. It proved an ideal accompaniment for our third course, the final share plate for the evening. This comprised two squares of pork belly, on a smoked apple puree with red cabbage and apple slices. Again, a stunning combination of flavours happening here.

Our pork belly was just perfect – crunchy crackle atop the tender and tasty flesh. The plate was decorated with a dusting of fennel pollen, which provided a great aniseed counterpoint to the main flavours.

After a short breather, we were ready to tackle course number four, which is served as individual plates. Tuki lamb (two ways) was the focus of this dish – a sumacencrusted cutlet on a yoghurt, cucumber and tomato salad

base, plus two lamb-belly medallions topped with tomato jam, on a bed of smoked eggplant puree.

The lamb was cooked to perfection and melted in the mouth, while the sumac, eggplant puree and tomato jam all provided great complementary taste sensations. A triumph.

Luckily we had left a small corner for dessert, and our final course for the night was another delight for the eyes as well as for the tastebuds rose-water and yoghurt pannacotta, with a waft of Persian fairy floss, alongside a kataifi pastry basket of strawberries and blueberries. Our plates were finished off with a sprinkle of candied rose petals.

The light, creamy texture and delicious flavour of the pannacotta were to die for, while the tang of the berries balanced the sweetness brilliantly. Wow. By now our appetites were well and truly satisfied, and we departed - thoroughly delighted at the quality and range of taste sensations we had experienced.

28 Gigs

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Gig Guide Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Matt Gurry covers – Saturday, February 21, 9pm Top Jimmy covers – Saturday, February 28, 9pm Performance Afternoon Sessions – Sunday, March 1, 3pm

Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham Tin Roof duo – Sunday, February 22, 1pm

Perfect Drop, Daylesford SIN Dance Night - DJ EXC and DJ Zolly Gold - Monday, February 16 Tania Petrini and Vida Jazz - Friday, February 20 Andy Vogel & Trevor Shard - Saturday, February 21 SIN Dance Night - DJ Swami Salami & DJ Shiva Shimmy - Monday, February 23 Marnie Sheehan, Mark Smith & Dave Sheehan - Friday, February 27 Zinnia Blue - Saturday, February 28

Enjoy Your Special Celebration in Our New Function Room ❖ Birthdays

❖ Work Parties

❖ Anniversaries

❖ Social Club Parties

❖ Sporting Club Parties

❖ Any Special Occasion

Seats 40 at tables or 65 standing with no charge and we can tailor the menu to suit.

Bookings Essential

The Grande Hotel, Hepburn Gillian Eastoe ‘Women of Rock’ – Friday, February 20, 8pm Geoffrey Williams sings Nina Simone and Bill Withers – Friday, February 27, 8pm

Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville A Little Bag of Blues – Thursday, February 19, evening Pennyweight – Friday, February 20, evening Marty P – Saturday, February 21, lunch Liz Frencham and The People We Know – Friday, February 27, evening The Duck Down Pickers – Saturday, February 28, evening

Blackwood Hotel, Blackwood Live music every Sunday, noon to 4pm

Got a gig happening? Email donna@tlnews.com.au

oPen FoR DInneR DAILY AnD WeeKenDS FoR LUnCh The Railway Hotel Castlemaine 65 Gingell Street, Castlemaine, VIC 3450 Phone 5472 1250 www.railwayhotelcastlemaine.com.au enquires@railwayhotelcastlemaine.com.au www.facebook.com.au/railwayhotelcastlemaine

Bowling Club UPCOMING EVENTS

ur o k y ars! r Ma lend Ca

ROBBIE WILLIAMS & KATY PERRY TRIBUTE Saturday 28th Feb Meals 6-8pm Extra on the night Show 8.30pm Members $25 General Public $28

BINGO – Sunday 2-4pm, Tuesday 7-9pm.

Big Bucks Jackpot starting at $30,000 plus lots of in-house jackpots every session.

COL ELLIOT In between the laughter Friday 20th March 2015 8.30pm Show Meals 6-8 (extra on night) Tickets $30

KIDS EAT FREE Every Thursday.

Under 10.

Kids Menu Only.

Must be with a dining adult Bookings Essential !

KINGS OF OZ 100% Aussie Rock tribute show Saturday 18th April 8.30pm MORNING MELODIES 4th Monday of Every Month 10.30am Free Entry Tea, coffee and song books provided.

Great for aged care outings, planned activity groups etc.

MUSO CLUB 3rd Sunday of Every Month.

Bring your voice or instrument. 1-5pm

Kyneton Bowling Club (03) 5422 1902 61-79 Mollison Street Kyneton 3444 www.kynetonbc.com.au manager@kynetonbc.com.au functions@kynetonbc.com.au

The Local - tlnews.com.au

30 News

Springs Reserve to celebrate 150 years

T

HE Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve will celebrate its 150th anniversary next month.

Taking the Waters - 150th Anniversary committee member Gary Lawrence said the government temporarily reserved the immediate area around the spring in March, 1865.

“This spring and this reserve have endured as an iconic destination for locals and visitors alike. Many former goldmining towns in Victoria stagnated or completely disappeared when the gold was exhausted, Hepburn Springs refocused its outlook to the potential attraction and use of the mineral water.

“The reserve at Hepburn Springs became the focus of that resource.”

Mr Lawrence said the area had been developed as the Spa Centre of Australia – “think of Hepburn Springs and you immediately associate it with the mineral water, the reserve, old guesthouses, sing- a-longs and dances at the Pavilion and walks through the bush to discover other mineral springs”.

Mineral water and, in particular, the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve had been intrinsic to the development of the district and benefit to the local community, he said.

“Tourists have flocked to the Reserve over the years to benefit from the healthy environment, sparkling waters, reviving baths. “‘Taking the Waters’ is how the mineral water drinking and bathing experience was fondly described. Steam trains, horse drawn buggies, long walks and cosy accommodation were all part of this tradition.”

Mr Lawrence said a committee was formed in June, 2014 to organise an anniversary event on March 28 for the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve with Hepburn Shire Council inviting the Victorian Government to officiate at a formal recognition for the anniversary which will be complemented with a community celebration that will involve the Hepburn Primary School, musicians, Daylesford and District Brass Band and singers, and culminate in an old fashioned dance band evening inside the Pavilion.

The event will start at noon, the music will play until 5pm at the Sound Shell and the evening dance will be from 7pm until 11pm.

A booklet of images and history will be available for the event and an historic display of Mineral Water bottles and cans will be mounted at the Daylesford and District Historical Museum.

Photo, above left, shows a scene from the popular Locarno Spring circa 1940. The photo has been donated by former Mt Franklin resident Gary Powell.

S AT BAREFOOrdTBowBOlingWL Club Daylesfo Barefoot Bowls every Thursday at 6pm from 5th February $5.00 ALL WELCOME Bookings: 5348 2130

Welcome to The Farmers Arms Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner The Farmers Arms Daylesford offers the perfect blend of country charm combined with a sophisticated menu, wine list and professional service.

For more information about the pub and also our current menu, please visit our website: www.thefarmersarms .com.au 1 East Street Daylesford ph. 03 5348 2091

Dining 31

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Meal deals for locals - tourists also welcome

E

VERYONE loves a locals’ deal. Especially a meal deal! So here are the dining establishments to head to for great value and meals.

Raffles

Fundraising raffles for local organisations are held on Friday evenings at The Farmers Arms Hotel, Daylesford, Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham and the Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn.

Monday

Mercato, Daylesford – main dish & a glass of local wine - $30 The Grande Hotel, Hepburn Springs – two courses and a glass of house wine, beer or bubbles - $38 Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn – Parma Night - $17.50

Tuesday

Cosy Corner, Hepburn Springs – Curry & Hot Pot Night - $18

Wednesday

Perfect Drop - five courses with a glass of bubbles or beer - $50 Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford – Pot and Parma - $20 Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn – Roast - $17.50 Sault, Sailors Falls – a la carte menu with glass of wine

Happy Hours Daylesford Bowling Club has Happy Hour ‘n’ a half, from Monday to Thursday, from 4.30pm to 6pm.

Perfect Drop, Daylesford, also has a Happy Hour, every day, from 4pm to 6pm with $10 cocktails and $1 oysters.

Want to share a locals’ deal? Email news@tlnews.com.au

Thursday

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford – Steak Night - $20 The Plough, Trentham – two courses - $25, three courses - $30 Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville – Thai night

Friday

Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham – two courses - $25 Cosy Corner, Hepburn Springs – Fish Night - $26.50 with a glass of wine

Sunday

Moor Please, Hepburn - any pizza + a glass of MP wine or 961 Lebanese beer $20

ve y fi e from l n O driv d s’ ute lesfor ham n i y m Da Trent rds a w to

luxury bed & breakfast - vineyard 238 Dairy Flat Road, Musk www.barcaldinehouse.com.au manager@barcaldinehouse.com.au Tel: (03) 5348 2741 Mob: 0422 954 667

ACCOMMODATION

CELLAR DOOR

Meals available Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm - Cellar door open 7 days a week 9am- 5.30pm

The Local - tlnews.com.au

32 News

Pick me, pick me HI, my name is Swannie. I am a big boy, quite placid but also quite active for a greyhound. I am four years old and would love another dog for company - but definitely no cats thanks.

Luckily for me the Castlemaine RSPCA is involved with the Greyhound Adoption Program and every fortnight they have a new greyhound available at our shelter. But I am here now so pick me, pick me!

MC# 956000008258330 Castlemaine RSPCA is at 24 Langslow St, Castlemaine.

Phone: 5472 5277. Open: Monday to Thursday from 10am to 5pm. Friday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

MITCH’s Summer Concert

M

ITCH’s Family Summer Concert will be held in the grounds of CopeWilliams Winery, 160 Glenfern Road, Romsey this Sunday, February 22 with gates opening at noon and the concert starting at 2.30pm

Artists include Eleanor Barkla, a 17-year-old jazz-inclined vocalist Castlemaine resident with accomplishments including numerous recitals, concerts and productions at Sacred Heart College Kyneton, featuring in Open Mic afternoons at The Comma in Castlemaine, Christmas Carols and productions with Scouts Australia.

The concert will also include the announcement of the Young Musician of the Year award.

Tickets are $70 family ticket for two adults and two children, (12 and under) with additional family children $5, $30 adults, $25 pensioners & students and $10 teenagers aged 13- 18 years. There is no seniors’ concession. There is limited seating of 150 with bookings essential.

MITCH – Music in the Central Highlands – is an organisation focused on the promotion of fine music in the Central Highlands. Other concerts for 2015 will be held on Sunday, April 19, Saturday, and Sunday, August 1 and 2, and Sunday, October 18.

Details and bookings: mitch.org.au

Young soccer stars

P

ARIS Ibrahim, Zephyr Ogden Jones, Aidan Mayger, Lachlan Torquati and Jordie Barnes have been selected to play in the National Premier League for the Ballarat Red Devils.

The five are all players with the Daylesford Hepburn United Soccer Club.

Zephyr’s father Patrick Jones said hundreds of kids tried out for the various year levels “so it is a reflection of the great work Daylesford Hepburn United Soccer Club has been doing over the years to build participation and skills locally”.

THECHO!R

es to Comesford Dayl

Melbourne’s most exciting 100 voice community choir Conducted by the award winning creator of ‘Choir of Hard Knocks’

Dr Jonathon Welch AM presents an afternoon of

‘SINGING FOR YOUR SOUL’’

‘

Geoffrey Williams ‘Geoffery Williams’

with special guests

Dr ‘Dr Jonathon Welch Jonathon Welch AM AM’

DAYLESFORD SOUL CHOIR Conductor: Geoffery Williams

3pm Sunday March 15, 2015, Daylesford Town Hall, Tickets at the door from 2.30pm A fundraising concert to support ‘The 5000 Club’ in Daylesford www.thechoir.com.au

Ballarat Tiles The Tile People Winner 2008/2009/2010 Vic. Tile Council BEST Regional Showroom

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Making it easy for you.

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The Tile People Members will provide you with the best in service, advice, quality and value for money.

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5333 5336

Open 6 Days 5333 5336 Fax: 5331 8366 Email: sales@ballarattiles.com.au

Open 6 Days Fax: 5331 8366 Email: sales@ballarattiles.com.au

Moss Shading Solutions For Hepburn Shire’s total shading solutions talk to Brian & Deborah Moss

Exterior Awnings Folding Arm Tension systems Drop screen Traditional canvas

Internal Blinds Roller & sunscreen Roman blinds Shutters

SOMFY MOTORISATION SPECIALISTS

RING FOR QUOTATION / ADVICE 5348 4045 8B, 38 EAST ST, DAYLESFORD (NO SHOWROOM)

The Local - tlnews.com.au

34 News

GRAND DESIGN WINDOWS

The widest range of high performance windows and doors locally made in Ballan.

OZ TRANS DAYLESFORD --------------------------------# REMOVALS # PRODUCE # FURNITURE #GENERAL FREIGHT ---------------------------------MELB. & COUNTRY VICTORIA DAILY --------------------------------FREE QUOTES

ph: Nick 0421 593 998 or Lachlan 0427 837 081

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39

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Hepburn Shire & Ballarat

Phone: 03 5464 7380 or Michael 0422 643 901 Email: sales@onsiteflyscreensballarat.com.au www.onsiteflyscreens.com.au

The Local - tlnews.com.au

Sport 35

Axes flying at Lyonville’s Woodchop

T

HE axes flew thick and fast at the Lyonville Woodchop on Saturday, February 7 - giving the crowd plenty to watch. Spokesman Harold Suckling said the day saw some of the best action in Victoria. And drew people from around the region - some for the first time and some who have set up their chairs since the event started.

There was even a table of “ladies doing lunch” with the prerequisite champagne, of course.

36 Business Guide

Promote your business here from just $30 plus GST!

Miles Electrical.Rec15116.

Small Job Specialist All household electrical work guaranteed Daylesford /Hepburn region...

Phone Gary Miles 0458 112 777 106 Albert St, Creswick garymiles5 @gmail.com

Daylesford Newsagency & Tattslotto Newspapers, magazines, Tattslotto, dry-cleaning, stationery, photocopying and lots more...

We stock The Local!

November 24, 2014 Issue 33 Meet designer Victoria Varrasso

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

55 Vincent St, Daylesford 5348 2061

Promote your business here from just $30 plus GST!

Business Guide 37

John & Daniel's

CAR SERVICING Standard Service From Only

$165

Ring John or Dan

0419 133 046

Shed 4, Railway Cres Daylesford *conditions apply

POOL AND SPA MAINTENANCE SERVICES DAYLESFORD AND SPA COUNTRY Over 25 years’ experience in the Pool and Spa industry.

Cleaning and servicing of pools, hot tubs and jacuzzis.

Water chemistry and water balance Commercial properties Domestic applications Reasonable rates All enquiries welcome Noel 0419 554 319 Declan 0438 212 107

Call Jonathan Hurst 0411 216 043

Gardening: • Mowing including ride-on • Hedging, Pruning • & Brushcutting • Maintenance & Establishment of all gardens • Holiday rental Maintenance

Landscaping: • Fencing -Paling -Colourbond -Picket, post & rail • Retaining walls • Raised garden beds • Drive-ways & paths • Paving • Irrigation systems

Owner-operated, Established Local Business Fully Insured Free Quotes s.mountgardens@optusnet.com.au

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38 News

Michelle Stephenson 0413 600 807 info@bedesigns.com.au www.bedesigns.com.au

‘Your complete flooring solutions’

Carpets, rugs, vinyls and timber floating floors

Michelle Stephenson 0413 600 807 info@bedesigns.com.au www.bedesigns.com.au

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The Local - tlnews.com.au

The Garden

I

by Jackie Airey

MAY be sitting in my garden here, but my head is in the great gardens of England. Having just returned from a month’s sojourn in that garden lover’s paradise, I’m full of ideas. Friends have been asking to look at my photos, but if they are not gardeners I can see the eyes roll back in their heads after the 20th shot of a late summer border or a great plant and colour combination, or a brimmingly planted pot of exhuberance. Lucky I took the trip with a like-minded mate of mine!

The weather was perfect, so we could stop at every grand estate we could find with an open garden, ”do” the house (also fascinating) and then wander at leisure down winding paths, around lakes, along linden allees, through rhododendron forests, up and down terraces, into grottos and other follies and across wildflower meadows. Bliss.

Even in London we rejoiced in the colour and generosity of the contents of window boxes and huge hanging baskets outside almost every building. With a shorter blooming season than we enjoy here, they’re right into it, packing their containers with advanced plants and truckloads of start-up and slow release fertilisers. It was dry the whole month we were there, so quite some effort must also have been put into the watering to prevent any wilting.

Petunias were, of course, popular, both full size and the mini blooms varieties, along with erigon, small salvias, marigolds, pansies, bacopa and pelargoniums.

Nothing out of the ordinary there, but the fullness of the displays made them a joy to behold, and the streets of London a pleasure to experience – an example some of our municipalities could follow, in order to encourage foot traffic.

We eventually headed south and drove down the narrow, hedgerow lined country lanes to find Great Dixter in East Sussex. This was the family home of Christopher Lloyd, well known gardener and writer. Lloyd introduced the English gardener to borders planted with something other than the usual roses, foxgloves, delphiniums and cottage plants used by most. Instead, he championed what is familiar to us here: cannas, dahlias (even naming his two daschunds after these plants) sunflowers, coreopsis, cistus, marigolds and other plants better suited to coping with warmer temperatures and lower rainfall.

Gardening 39

Colour combinations that would have been considered in the past by the British gardener as clashing or “brassy”, have been put together for over a decade at Dixter, and are admired now by many. Lloyd died in 2006, but his legacy is there to see in border planting schemes he designed along with his head gardener, Fergus Garrett.

We saw the final stages of a summer border of predominantly bright pinks and yellows, created with phlox, achillea, salvias, paeony poppies and verbascum olympicum. Then there was The Exotic Garden, full of fiery exhuberance, with Canna Wyoming, an orange flowered and burgundy and orange stripe leaved scallywag, teaming with dark foliaged, orange and gold Dahlia Moonfire, banana plants, other red, gold and marmalade dahlias, large variegated grasses and a haze of purple verbena bonarienses – sensational!

Dixter is also home to some well maintained yew hedges, relatively young at 100 years old. I’ve been known to pooh-pooh the notion of topiary, but when it is as cute as the ones there in The Peacock Garden (no live peacocks there, think about it), then I’m won over as much as anyone else. These peacocks were almost as enchanting as the giant rendition of Big Ginge, our dear but departed puss, created for us by Mary Anne Faulks, our gardener, in the lower reaches of this mystical space to which I was so lucky to return. But not before a few other adventures, which I’ll fill you in on next time.

Photo by Lindsay Smith

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Footy fever

D

AYLESFORD Bowling Club has barefoot bowls each Thursday from 5pm. Everyone is welcome and no experience is needed. You just need feet. Bookings on 5348 2130.