40 gippsland lifestyle spring

Spring ISSUE #40 Our Town LANG LANG Storm Special Hail Hits CAPE PATERSON Tomorrow Begins Today IZABELLA STASKOWSKI

$7.95 $7.95

GIPPSLAND BUSHFIRES

Special Report

FOOD, WINE ACCOMMODATION Features inside

NATHAN LAY On a high note

Centre Stage NEWRY HALL

+ Regular Features Horoscope Positive Lifestyle Tips Millie’s Adventures Canine Corner

our 40th Issue ISSN 1838-8124

plus more insid e

NISSAN | HYUNDAI | DEMO & USED VEHICLES | SERVICE | PARTS | FINANCE 1-5 ROUGHEAD STREET, LEONGATHA, VIC, 3953

P (03) 5662 2327 F (03) 5662 2642 E edney@dcsi.net.au

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editorial spring #40

index

Spring in Gippsland & we're 40 issues into it!!!

features

It is hard to believe that ten years ago we decided to pitch a magazine to Gippsland, well it was South Gippsland, and in time we spread to all other parts of the region.

LANG LANG TOWN FEATURE + ADVERTISERS + CONTENT

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FOOD + WINE + ACCOMMODATION ADVERTISERS + CONTENT

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The 40th edition is a milestone for our magazine and once again we have a vast array of features from all over Gippsland. They say that variety is the spice of life; well I am certain we have it covered.

Lang Lang is the focus town in this edition, the little town with a lot of bite, the town we sometimes bypass when we are heading to the turn off for Leongatha or straight ahead to Phillip Island, but people are heading into Lang Lang as the warmth and versatility of the town is there for all to see. It comes packed with a nostalgic past and the people are warm and friendly. The shops are unique; the Palace Hotel stands out like a beacon looking over the town.

It would be remiss of me not to mention the support that came from the Bendigo Bank, in particular, the Lang Lang Community®Bank branch, headed up by local legend Max Papley along with the Lang Lang Business Group who got right behind the idea of focussing on their town and were simply marvellous.

We welcome Julie Miller to the team as one of our new writers. Julie brings a unique style to the magazine, but she is a person who fits our versatility tag and we look forward to many more features from Julie.

Well, the journey has now reached ten years and I would like to thank everyone for their great efforts over time and I can now look forward to many more years of Gippsland Lifestyle Magazine, well done team!

Doug Pell

Writers Contributors Photographers Advertising Editor Creative Printers

Chris West, Lia Spencer, Anita Butterworth, Wendy Hall, JE Miller, John Turner MAAPM, Ken Roberts and John Munns Erin Miller, Kerry Galea, Frank Butera, Christie Nelson Christine Boucher and Paul Henderson Anita Butterworth, John Munns, Ken Roberts, Chris West and Doug Pell Doug Pell Maree Bradshaw media101 Southern Colour (VIC) Pty Ltd | www.southerncolour.com.au

our spring front cover Photograph by Bruce Mars A special thanks to Mark Knight, Cartoonist for the Herald Sun, for his contribution.

GIPPSLAND LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE/COAST/COUNTRY A: PO Box 862, Wonthaggi 3995 P: 0404 301 333 E: thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au W: www.gippslandlifestyle.com facebook.com/lifestylegippsland instagram | gippslandlifestyle

our content AUSTRALIA’S FIRST OIL FIELD – LAKES ENTRANCE AUSTRALIAN HORTICULTURAL JUDGE’S ASSOC INC BASS COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE 2019 BOOK RELEASE – ‘A PLAN UNRAVELLED’ BY LIA SPENCER CAM PEDERSEN – AFTER THE SIREN CANINE CORNER – OUR BEST FRIENDS CAPE PATERSON STORM: - HOTEL HORROR – THE CAPE TAVERN - CAPE’S HEART & SOUL CRUSHED BY STORM - HERE TO HELP – PBE REAL ESTATE COAL CREEK – GEEKFEST 2019 CRAWFORD MARINE – RACV MARINE 2019 BOAT SHOW CURTIS AUSTRALIA – RUBY – A MAGICAL RED GEM ERIN MILLER: DEBUNKING THE WORK - LIFE THEORY EVENTS – GUIDE TO SPRING EVENTS FIVE SIMPLE STRATEGIES TO PREVENT BURNOUT AT WORK FINANCE TIPS: FOOLPROOF HACKS TO IMPROVE CASHFLOW GETTING OFF THE COUCH & INTO NATURE WITH FAMILY GIL TREASE – TREASE A NAME BUILT IN HISTORY GIPPSLAND ART GALLERY – WHAT’S ON - SPRING EXHIBITIONS HOROSCOPE – SPRING ASTROLOGY IZABELLA STASKOWSKI – TOMORROW BEGINS TODAY JOHN MUTSAERS – HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS JOURNEY ALONG THE ESPLANADE AT LAKES KINGBUILT – COUNTRY LIVING IN A CUSTOM LUXURY HOME MAGICAL MILLIE MYSTERY TOUR – TARRAVILLE + PORT ALBERT MEDICAL FEATURES PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES – BLOOD PRESSURE NEWRY HALL – CENTRE STAGE – A SMALL TOWN THINKING BIG PETER DWYER – A LIFETIME OF SALES RED TREE GALLERY – SPRING EXHIBITIONS STEAMRAIL VICTORIA – SNOW TRAIN WEST GIPPSLAND CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY WHERE DO YOU GET A COPY WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES – WILSON’S PROM WHALES WINTERREISE ‘WINTER JOURNEY’ WORLD JOUSTING CHAMPIONSHIP 2019

136-138 130-131 106-107 124 108-111 144-145 100-101 102-103 104 148 112-113 13 158 150-151 154-155 12 156-157 22-25 122-123 159 14-17 126-129 132-135 8-10 146-147 152-153 114-116 140-142 117 143 18-19 161 28-29 118-121 148

our advertisers ABSTRACTLY WILL – WILLIAM HOLT ART | VENUS BAY ALEX SCOTT (BACK COVER) BASS COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM CONQUEST POOLS CRAWFORD MARINE CURTIS AUSTRALIA EDNEYS LEONGATHA EVANS BP GROWMASTER TRARLAGON HARRIET SHING MP – STATE GOVERNEMENT KINGBUILT HOMES NATIONAL VIETNAM VETERANS MUSEUM LAURIE COLLINS SCRULPTURE GARDEN SOUTHERN CROSS AUSTEREO WARRAGUL CH9 SOUTH GIPPSLAND HOMES STONY CREEK GO-KARTS WGCMA – FROM LITTLE THINGS BIG THINGS GROW WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY & LOTTO

125 164 105 6 26 113 7 3 139 21 117 11 143 117 5 27 149 20 7 160 161

+our regular features ASTROLOGY, POSITIVE LIFESTYLE TIPS, CANINE CORNER , MILLIE’S ADVENTURES & SO MUCH MORE

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COUNTRY

LIVING

IN A CUSTOM

LUXURY HOME

THINKING OF MOVING AWAY FROM THE BIG SMOKE? IT’S A LONGING THAT COMES ACROSS MOST OF US AT SOME POINT, AND ESPECIALLY WHEN THE CAREER BECOMES A BIT MORE ESTABLISHED AND A WEDDING AND YOUNG FAMILY BEGIN TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN OUR LIVES.

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....making the lifestyle change Somehow a country lifestyle seems even more compelling when springtime rolls around, with the promise of new growth, fresh colours, more sunshine, and more warmth! And we start to question whether we want to raise our children in the fast paced life of the city, or to put down roots in a more spacious environment with grass, trees, rolling hills and proximity to unspoiled beaches and stunning mountains.

For many, it seems a no-brainer when you compare the cost of homes side by side, and especially when price per square metre of land is taken into account.

Some people enjoy the community and proximity to country areas, but still choose a low maintenance home on a smaller block of land. Others yearn to have a true lifestyle sized property, half an acre or more (2000m2) for themselves and their family. This gives a decent amount of space for things like a swimming pool, a large shed, a vegie garden and/or greenhouse, a handful of egg-laying chickens, a decent rainwater tank, parking for a caravan or boat, parking for extra family member’s vehicles (living or just visiting!), or whatever takes your fancy, as well as a good sized family home that you’ll keep for the long term, with comfortable distances to your next door neighbours for privacy.

Kingbuilt Homes specialise in “Design and Build” custom designed homes in the Gippsland area.

A large percentage of Kingbuilt’s clients are building a “long term” home where they intend to live for many years. Many of these have built new homes before, so they are aware of the possible traps and they see the value in working with a builder that they can truly trust.

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Your individual needs will determine just how much space you want or need, but Kingbuilt Homes keep in close contact with dozens of land vendors so that we are up to speed with what’s on the market.

We can help locate the best option for you.

Even more importantly, Kingbuilt Homes are experienced in designing a house that’s truly ideal for you. Our design process takes into account many lifestyles, family and practical needs, a lot of which most clients wouldn’t think of without some guidance.

Contact Kingbuilt on 1300 546 428 today to see what we could build for you!

Alternatively, drop into one of our display homes in Traralgon or Warragul.

1300 546 428 | sales@kingbuilt.com.au www.kingbuilt.com.au

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FOOLPROOF HACKS TO IMPROVE YOUR CA$H FLOW IN BUSINE$$ It’s a wonderful thing to think about the incredible profits that your business will have in the near future, but what matters more is how much cash is going in. Cash flow is what keeps your business running.

The outgoing and incoming cash will determine how you can sustain your venture. Plenty of potentially profitable businesses go under because they don’t manage their cash flow.

However, there are tried-and-tested strategies that will prevent your business from failing and ultimately improve your finances. The following hacks will help you manage cash flow better and put your business to the next level.

ONE KEEP YOUR ACCOUNTING UP TO DATE

FOUR FREE UP CAPITAL BY LEASING EQUIPMENT

Take into account all costs and expenses in running your business.

Record keeping might be a hassle, but it can help you stay on top of finances. Take advantage of accounting software or apps such as Quickbooks, XERO, or Reckon to manage your finances on the go. If you haven’t got the time to manage your finances, hire a bookkeeper.

New equipment has depreciation benefits. The interest in equipment financing is tax-deductible, and you can use the cash you free up to invest in other revenue-generating activities.

TWO PLAN AHEAD & KEEP A CASH RESERVE FOR QUIET TIMES Seasonal trends will affect your business in one way or another. It’s a good strategy to plan ahead for when cash flow slows down. Keep at least three months’ worth of expenses in the bank at all times (more or less depending on the customer lifecycle of your business). Any more than this, it wouldn’t be an inefficient use of capital. Any less than this, and you’ll be cutting it too thin. If you’re going to take out a part of your reserve for emergency expenses, make sure to put it back in when you get another cycle of cash flow.

THREE SET UP A LINE OF CREDIT BEFORE YOU NEED ONE Having a business line of credit will give you a good hand when there are emergency expenses or contingencies. You can always tap into a line of credit for short-term expenses such as paying contractors, buying inventory, or sustaining daily operations. For bigger expenses like expensive equipment or getting a commercial space, go for traditional loans which will allow you to pay for it in a longer term.

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FIVE GET CUSTOMERS TO PAY ON TIME The best way to boost your cash flow is to make sure that your customers pay on time. Incentivise them to pay on time with early payment discounts or other perks. On the flip side of this is to delay payments to vendors as long as possible to give yourself some leeway.

Unless of course they offer an early payment incentive.

If you need working capital for business without having to touch your cash reserves, go for unsecured business loans. The loans require no collateral on your part. Quotes take less than a minute and the funds can be in your account in 24 hours. Check out Bizzloans Australia for quick funding approval across 800 financial products.

About the Author MATTHEW REECE Matt is the CEO of Bizzloans Group with operations in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Catch up with Matt at wwwbizzloans.com.au

RUBY

BY PAUL HENDERSON

THE MAGICAL RED GEM CLOSE TO OUR HEART

A natural Australian ruby crystal still embedded in rock

An elegant ruby and diamond 'Elizabeth' eternity ring

One of the most popular gems, ruby has held a fascination for centuries.

Look back into history and you'll see rubies as a favourite of royals - a ruby was said to protect and preserve, symbolising love, energy and passion.

Rubies are rare and precious, one of nature's most valuable gems, with a breathtaking colour that will enthral.

Curtis Australia also guarantee what they sell you, and provide a professional service and warranty too.

Rubies have an obvious link to a ruby wedding anniversary, but are often seen in eternity rings combined with diamonds to celebrate the birth of a baby, special birthday or 'just because' you want a colourful and distinctive gem. They are wonderfully warm in colour, combining particularly well with yellow and pink golds, and look great set in white gold for a fresh, different look.

Given all these wonderful attributes, who wouldn't like a sparkling ruby in a beautiful piece of jewellery? But how do you choose a ruby, and where should you look?

Some people are concerned about getting a natural ruby – you might be one of them. If you look locally, rather than on the internet, it removes half of the potential problems – is the ruby genuine or synthetic? Does the photo show the actual gem I'll get? What about the colour – is the photo accurate, does it show the inclusions in the gem?

Seeing rubies for yourself - before you buy is the best way to go.

The other half of the problems are solved when you call in to an expert jeweller, such as Curtis Australia in Bairnsdale.

Glenn Curtis is a Master Jeweller, and the only expert from outside the USA to be invited to judge the Global Jewellery Design Awards, so you really are in good hands.

A stylish take on a traditional cluster ring with the ruby set in yellow gold

As gem experts with over 50 years of experience this international award winning jeweller will help you choose your special ruby in their relaxed, comfortable and private Macleod Street showroom.

You'll not only see beautiful ready to wear jewellery at Curtis Australia you can even have something special crafted just for you, choosing your ruby from their private collection of loose gems from all around the world.

Part of that collection includes Australian rubies, and ruby cabochons too – these are smooth, domed gems without facets that look great in more contemporary pieces.

The classic faceted look is usually round or oval, but there are other shapes to consider too. You can even see Australian ruby in its natural crystal form still embedded in the rock.

Colours range from the softest pinks to the deepest blood reds, and a good ruby will always have an appealing colour and light that touches you.

Often found in rings of course, but equally exquisite in pendants or earrings, rubies are a truly gorgeous gem. Wherever you wear your ruby, enjoy it and cherish it too. Second only to diamond in terms of hardness, a ruby will, if looked after, stay beautiful for a long time to come. And, because Curtis Australia have their own jewellers working in their own studio (well worth a look when you call in) they will create a personal design and hand craft a special piece of ruby jewellery just for you, or your loved one.

When it comes to choosing your ruby, or any other gem for your special moment you really need expert help, so be sure to seek it out. That way you'll be assured of love, energy and passion in your unique ruby!

A stunning oval ruby embraced with brilliant diamonds in yellow and white gold

You can see more at Curtis Australia’s stunning work at www.curtisaustralia.com or, next time you are in Bairnsdale, why not pop into their studio at 129 Macleod Street. Ph | 03 5152 1089

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TOMORROW BEGINS TODAY JOINING THE TODAY SHOW HAS PROVIDED ANOTHER STEP FORWARD IN THE CAREER PROGRESSION OF FORMER NINE REGIONAL NEWS GIPPSLAND SENIOR REPORTER, IZABELLA STASKOWSKI. WORDS: CHRIS WEST

IZABELLA STASKOWSKI

Izabella Staskowsi describes her move back home to Melbourne after just over a year with Nine Regional News Gippsland as somewhat bittersweet. She is filled with excitement surrounding the opportunity she has been given in joining the TODAY Show as a reporter/ producer, but admits to having fallen in love with the region and will also miss the team she worked with at Nine Regional News Gippsland from its Traralgon base.

Refreshed and reenergized following a relaxing short break in Bali, Izabella commenced in her new role with the TODAY Show on 29th July.

Izabella wasn’t actively seeking her next career step when Nine Melbourne reporter Christine Ahern made contact to canvas her interest in the position with the TODAY Show. After an initial conversation with Christine and subsequent interview in Melbourne, Izabella was offered and accepted the role.

“I saw joining the TODAY Show as another opportunity to grow again professionally, to challenge myself, and to enjoy the privilege of working alongside some of the best professionals in the business. It has given me a chance to work on a different platform with a national audience, which is a wonderful progression for me to make in my career,” she says.

“The producing aspect of the role is new for me, which is also exciting. Adding this new skill set will be another learning curve in my professional development.”

At the same time, there has been more than a tinge of sadness for Izabella in saying goodbye to Gippsland.

“I’ve formed great relationships with the people in the community and feel honoured to have been able to have done the stories I’ve reported on through my work in the region,” she states.

“People have opened up and shared their stories with me. Along the way, I’ve met some people who are just so resilient and passionate. That’s really left an impression on me.”

Some of Izabella’s most memorable and emotional stories from her time in Gippsland involved interviews with volunteers who cared for stricken wildlife following the bushfires last summer and her coverage of whales becoming beached at Mallacoota in November 2018.

From a visual and sensory perspective, Gippsland’s sights have also left an indelible mark on Izabella.

“It’s just so ridiculously beautiful. If you go down to Phillip Island or the Bass Coast and you drive through the rolling hills it’s just like a postcard,” she observes.

Izabella says she fell in love with Gippsland during her time in the region and will continue to visit when she can.

“Once the weather gets warmer, I’m sure to get in my bathers and head down the coast. I want to stand up paddle board at Inverloch, which is something I haven’t yet done,” she says.

Being a self-confessed “foodie” who loves to cook for friends and go to markets, Izabella will miss having ready access to all that Gippsland offers in those areas of her interest. She has also enjoyed the lure of the coastal beaches.

Like any good reporter, Izabella wants to keep tabs on news from Gippsland and follow the progress of some of the stories she has covered that still have chapters left to complete.

“I’M SURE TO CONTINUE TO TAKE A CLOSE INTEREST IN WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE REGION,” SHE PROMISES. Izabella’s own story begins with her early years growing up in the Melbourne suburb of Bentleigh.

Her parents both emigrated from Poland, firstly her dad in the 1960s followed by her mum in the 1970s. They met and married in Melbourne.

She was educated at Star of the Sea College in Brighton, which has a list of notable past students including Germaine Greer, Nicky Buckley, Rachel Griffiths and Holly Valance.

Journalism wasn’t particularly in Izabella’s sights as she progressed through her schooling.

“You hear some in our industry say they were walking around wanting to be a reporter from three years of age. I more so developed an interest in people’s stories when I was growing up,” she says.

“Over time, I was looking more towards a possible career in photography, videography or film. My school work experience in Year 10 was at a photography studio in Richmond. I also love language. Although I was born in Australia, Polish was my first language. I also speak a little German, having studied it all throughout school.”

An invaluable part of Izabella’s time at RMIT was spent as an intern at Nine and the ABC in Melbourne and SBS in Sydney.

“Those three internships provided me with an enormous grounding. Being able to go out in the field to watch media professionals in action really inspired me,” she states.

“Every time I met a reporter or a cameraman or a producer I would lap up as much information as I could. I remember during my time at Nine in Melbourne watching a reporter at an out of court session prepare for and deliver a live cross. I was in awe of his coolness under pressure.”

Izabella secured her first job at Sky News before she had completed her degree at RMIT. “I worked part-time at Sky News while finishing my studies. It was a behind-the-scenes role and I stayed there for almost a year,” she says.

The job at Sky News had given Izabella a foot in the door of the television industry, but she really wanted to be at the forefront of the action in a reporting role.

“Everyone was telling me I had to look to use a regional opportunity as my stepping stone,” she remembers.

“The people at Sky who I really looked up to had done a couple of years in regional areas somewhere in Australia, so I recognised that was the pathway I needed to take as well. Although I’m very much a city girl, I decided to roll the dice and start applying for jobs and see what would happen.”

While finishing her secondary education, Izabella decided to hone her sights on a future career in the media and commenced a three-year degree in Journalism at RMIT University in 2014.

Izabella was open to the idea of having to move to get her start, but would not have guessed it would end up being with WIN News in Cairns.

“I was keen to learn about the industry and went to RMIT thinking I was heading down the feature writing path, or somewhere in the print side of media,” she recalls.

“I had two interviews for the job in one day. Just two days later I was given an offer and had about two weeks to pack up my life and move across the country,” she explains.

“But once I started doing the TV side I saw how it incorporated all the things I had been interested in – photography, video and story-telling.”

“It was a very exciting time and looking back it was certainly a major learning curve in both a professional and personal sense. Going from Bayside Melbourne to Far North Queensland was a huge change, but it taught me a lot.”

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As Izabella had not been to Cairns since visiting as an infant, she went there not knowing what to expect.

“It was a bit of a culture shock and a massive adjustment but in a good way,” she says.

“I fell in love with the place, got involved in the community and made a lot of friends in the process. It took me by surprise how much I really grew as a person.”

After about a year in Cairns, a desire to get back home to be nearer to her parents, older brother Michael and other familiar faces saw Izabella on the move again. She utilised her network of contacts in the media industry to scan for opportunities and soon found her next destination at Nine Regional News Gippsland.

“I got in touch with someone who got in touch with someone at Nine. I sent a showreel through and it so happened that they were looking for people at that time, so I was quite lucky in that way,” she recalls.

“In Cairns the stories invariably seemed to involve crocodiles or floods, and there was a different political environment up there with people like Bob Katter. Gippsland offered greater diversity of story subjects to report on across a wide region from Traralgon to Mallacoota,” she says.

As was the case when she moved to Cairns, Izabella only had limited familiarity with Gippsland when she made her new home in Traralgon.

“My dad had done some electrical engineering contract work in Gippsland many years back,” she recalls.

“We also had family friends in the West Gippsland area and had been there a few times.”

Adjusting from the warmth of Cairns to a cooler climate in Gippsland was the most challenging part of Izabella’s move back to Victoria.

She excelled in her job with Nine Regional News Gippsland and was subsequently promoted to the senior reporter role when that position became vacant.

Returning to her home state meant Izabella would be reporting about Victorian issues, which also appealed to her.

IZABELLA STASKOWSKI “I’VE FORMED GREAT RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY AND FEEL HONOURED TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO HAVE DONE THE STORIES I’VE REPORTED ON THROUGH MY WORK IN THE REGION,”

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“I continued to grow in my career during my time in Gippsland. With the job at Nine Regional News everything was on the road and I gained benefit from the opportunity to do live crosses and in preparing stories for both the 4pm and 6pm bulletins, which was different to what I had experienced before,” she comments.

Izabella is certain that she will maintain the close connection she has with her colleagues in Gippsland long into the future.

“It was the same with the people I worked with in Cairns. We were all so close and everyone from that group has gone on to do really amazing things,” she notes.

“There are people now in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Darwin, Rockhampton, other regional areas and even overseas doing wonderful things in their careers. Wherever they have gone in the world, we still have a lifelong connection.”

Although Izabella’s career is still only young, she does have a sage piece of advice that is born of her own initial experiences.

“IF THERE’S ONE THING I LIKE TO GET ACROSS, PARTICULARLY TO YOUNG PEOPLE STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREER, IT IS TO BE OPEN TO MOVING AND GOING TO DIFFERENT PLACES ACROSS AUSTRALIA,” SHE EMPHASISES. “In my case, it’s not only been beneficial to my career but has also helped me grow as a person.

I’ve met a lot of people and experienced things that I wouldn’t otherwise have done. It doesn’t matter if you’re in journalism, law, teaching, or anything really, the message is the same. I would encourage people to work hard, give it a crack and see what happens.”

Photographs by Doug Pell and supplied

by Izabella Staskowski

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PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE SEEING THE END RESULTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL WORKS CAN TAKE A WHILE. TREES TAKE YEARS TO GROW, LANDSCAPES TAKE TIME TO CHANGE, BUT BEING PATIENT IS SOMETHING THAT STAFF AT WEST GIPPSLAND CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (WGCMA) KNOW ALL TOO WELL.

Tree planting Toora North – a new site at Toora North has had more than 10,000 trees planted to help protect Corner Inlet.

Over the coming years, this site will be a beautiful forest and will help native animals move through the landscape.

WGCMA CEO, Martin Fuller, said that seeing the difference their work made was extremely rewarding.

“As an organisation, we’ve been working with our partners and community to create a better environment for more than 20 years,” said Mr Fuller. “But this takes time. Through our projects this year, we planted almost 200 hectares of trees and vegetation. The equivalent of about 100 football fields.

“To see the outcomes of this work we have to go back and visit some of our past worksites. When we look at Silcock’s Hill in Corner Inlet, Heart Morass near Sale or our work on Coalition Creek in Leongatha we can see the difference our work combined with maintenance and time makes.”

WGCMA develops and delivers projects to improve and protect soil, water and biodiversity.

This approach to looking after natural assets is the best way to ensure Gippsland continues to be one of Victoria’s largest agriculture producers, while also protecting important ecosystems and species.

These trees will then grow to filter run off from farms and improving water quality.”

“Our work is focused on catchments in the western half of Gippsland. We work with farmers and communities to protect our rivers and improve the land that has an impact on those rivers.

“Other works we’ve done this year include 1,444 hectares of weed control, 6,869 hectares of pest animal control and 72 hectares of earthworks. We know that this work results in better habitat for fish in Corner Inlet, a healthier Gippsland Lakes system as well as a more beautiful environment that we live, work and play in.”

“Since European settlement, our rivers have been modified, straightened and water is taken out for farming and household use. Trees have been removed from the landscape and all this has an impact on the health of our local environment.

“Over the last 12 months, we funded almost 70 kilometres of fencing. This fencing is important to make sure that we’re protecting the juvenile trees from being stepped on or eaten by stock.

These pictures of Coalition Creek near Leongatha shows how time and maintenance can make a real difference to a waterway.

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Projects that WGCMA tackles are complementary to each other.

A constant feature of WGCMA’s approach is working with energetic local people and organisations to take action that helps ensure future generations and the environment benefit from the wealth of Gippsland’s natural resources.

“Our local farmers have done a huge amount of work with our staff and partners this year, with

Community partners are vital to catchment health.

Kate Walsh points out some key features at the Black Spur wetlands.

more than 15,000 hectares of land set to benefit from whole farm plans, irrigation farm plans and soil erosion management plans.

“They’ve also done work to save more than 2,000 megalitres of water by making irrigation and other farm improvements. This is more than 800 Olympic sized swimming pools.”

In June, more than 200 community members, scientists, farmers and agency staff members got together to better understand the impacts climate change is having on agriculture in Gippsland.

The conference, funded through the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program, featured the best available science and speakers on a range of topics about managing the climate impacts on farms.

“It was fantastic to see the energy of the participants. Many of these agricultural producers are facing the impacts of climate change on their properties every day but their willingness to share experiences and solutions was inspiring.

Much of the work has been completed at Horseshoe Bend on a new fishway which will allow fish to get around the tunnel and to access the upper reaches of the Thomson and Aberfeldy rivers.

“Like many of our projects, delivering this conference was a partnership effort and we were really proud to work with community groups to host this event.”

“We’ll be doing fish monitoring as well as regular site visits, but we’re excited that the construction is completed and the fishway is being used,” added Mr Fuller.

The CMA also tackled fish passage in one of its largest river systems this year, the Thomson River. For a long time, the tunnel at Horseshoe Bend has been a barrier to fish migration, as water is diverted from the often-dry riverbed through the tunnel, effectively cutting off almost all of Horseshoe Bend and stopping migratory fish from accessing more than 85km of pristine habitat.

“Completing this fishway has been a high priority for us for a long time.”

For more information on any of these projects and many more, please visit wgcma.vic.gov.au Photographs and references courtesy of WGCMA

Event organiser, Sam Shannon, said this was the first time a climate conference like this was hosted in Gippsland.

Local farmers saved more than 800 Olympic sized swimming pools full of water this year by making irrigation improvements and other efficiency measures on their farms.

Photo by Craig Moodie

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AT G R O W M A S T E R T R A R A L G O N I N S P I R AT I O N A W A I T S Y O U

GROWMASTER TRARALGON

COME TO GROW MASTER FOR ALL SHOPPING, GIFTWARE, HOME WARES, LADIES FASHION AND GARDEN SUPPLIES OR CHOOSE A GIFT CARDÂ

W E A R E Y O U R D E S T I N AT I O N

For advice, range and quality.

For an experience and a garden encounter that will enchant you.

For solutions, inspiration and motivation.

WANDER THROUGH THE LAYERS OF OUR BEAUTIFUL GARDEN CENTRE, EACH STEP LEADING YOU INTO ANOTHER CHAPTER OF IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME, GARDEN AND LIFESTYLE.

Hours | Monday to Sunday 9.00am - 5.00pm 62 Argyle St, Traralgon Vic 3844 Ph: (03) 5174 2861 Em: growmastertraralgon@yahoo.com.au www.growmastertraralgon.com.au

TREASE A NAME BUILT IN HISTORY “By Tre, Dunn, Pol or Pen Ye shall know Cornish men” This is one variation of an old rhyme which refers to the origins of names of people that come from Cornwall. If you meet a Penhaligon, a Trelawny or even a Poldark, you can be assured there is Cornish ancestry afoot!

Gil Trease quotes this in reference to his family’s rich past and the link to his name.

In the history of the original Cornish language Tre means a settlement, Pol a pond or lake and Pen a hill or headland.

So, by joining the dots, it follows that Gil Trease is among this lot and his history is indeed of the settlement of land near water in beautiful South Gippsland. Gil’s ancestors carved a life in Dumbalk North, near the headwaters of the Tarwin River, in the 1880s. Immigrating originally on the back of the gold rushes, his great grandfather was a blacksmith.

They carved this life literally as their settlement was hewn from the ancient rainforests in the region. At a time where it was a man and a horse, it is the stuff of which one should be proud.

The Tarwin River is sometimes referred to as “the elixir of life”. It certainly flows in the lifeblood of this family, and others whom hail from the valley.

Gil Trease is fiercely proud of his heritage. He is a 4th generation Trease in Australia, and speaks with great knowledge of his forebears. As we chat in the modern office of Trease Builders in Meeniyan, the importance of his place in this lineage becomes clear and the fact that Gil is a builder seems perfectly apt.

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The Trease name spreads far and wide in this neck of the woods.

He recalls that at a Trease family “back to” in the 1990s, there were over 700 descendants!! ’The Mount’ and ‘The Marsh’ were their suitably named holdings and generations of one arm of Treases were raised on this land.

Although we are meeting a man who creates bespoke homes for discerning 21st century clients; homes of architectural clarity and contemporary lines, there is a deep-seated connection between the man who creates them, the land they inhabit and the resources that bring them to life.

Gil Trease knows a lot about wood. He knows a lot about a lot of things but has a particular passion and an encyclopaedic knowledge of timber, backed up with remarkable understanding of its botanical nomenclature.

His passion for timber began as he cut and collected firewood as a lad and has grown to be an intrinsic part of the man himself. It travels with him into his building projects and manifests as a real respect for its use and its beauty.

Gil is reluctant to spruik about his impressive repertoire of skills such as these but aside from being a self-taught horticulturist and botanist, he is a maker, a fixer, a tinkerer, a welder, a collector and a creator of all manner of things. He says: “if someone’s made it, I can make it”! He loves the challenge of taking something apart that might be broken and making it work again; creating parts himself in his shed if they can’t be obtained. For some, this may sound tedious, but for Gil it is relaxation and pleasure.

He loves and rebuilds old motorbikes for example and has undertaken rides on these machines with like-minded enthusiasts.

GIL TREASE

When it comes to creating a special home, Trease Builders’ founder Gil Trease believes anything is possible.

WORDS: WENDY HALL

HODDLE HOUSE Architect: Edition Office, Fitzroy, VIC Photographer: Benjamin Hosking

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HODDLE HOUSE Architect: Edition Office, Fitzroy, VIC Photographer: Benjamin Hosking AUSTRALIAN ‘2017 HOUSES AWARDS’ WINNER – New House over 200m2 JOINT WINNER – Sustainability FROM THE HOUSES AWARDS JURY: “Building a Sizeable project with a high level of quality and detail on a relatively modest budget is a significant achievment in itself.”

He laughs as he recalls one such ride that he attended, run by the “Vintage Motor Cycle Club - Victoria” named the Brass Monkey Rally, and very aptly named as the riders had to endure heavy rain, hail, wind and snow.

GK and KM Trease Builders was established in February 1985 by Gil and his wife Karen, and is a highly regarded local building company in the South Gippsland area known for their high quality work. They are committed to employing local tradespeople and encouraging emerging talent, with Gil passing on his extraordinary experience and knowledge to what he hopes will be a new generation of creators in the industry.

The company has won many awards and accolades; too many to list here.

His office walls are well decorated by the evidence of this. Perhaps notably, Trease Builders built the Australian Best Home Over 200m2, awarded by the Architecture Australia Houses magazine in 2017 for the Fish Creek residence and impressively, the outright Australian Home of the Year for a build in Cape Liptrap in 2004.

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It is a company happy to work closely with its clients, consulting and creating beautiful homes whatever the budget.

Trease Builders are the ones to approach if you want to create a special home.

Gil applies his knowledge and interest in all things related to construction and design to every project. Trease Builders specialise in custom built and architectural housing, and are proficient in all forms of materials, and see a difficult site as a challenge.

The discussion led Gil to his knowledge on sustainability and use of natural resources in construction. Again, he is articulate and informed in his comments. He reflects on the pleasure and good sense of using recycled and naturally sustainable materials but adds that, despite best intentions, this will always be an expensive option.

...there is a deep-seated connection between the man who creates them, the land they inhabit and the resources that bring them to life.

The aesthetics are undeniable, the logic obvious, but the man-hours involved in building with such products will always translate into extra dollars on a build. However, he remarks, the end product will always be more beautiful and have its own story as buildings settle into time.

The Bass Coast and South Gippsland area is vibrant and thriving. It is picturesque and revolves around lots of wonderful towns and communities.

If you fancy a ‘sea-change’ or a ‘tree-change’ you couldn’t go wrong if you chose Trease Builders to help you build your home here.

Anita is Gil’s administration and has worked for Trease Builders for more than 20 years and confirms much of what we have discussed. She is another affirmation of the type of community-based company Trease Builders is.

Photographs supplied by Trease Builders

Will Gil retire soon? “Why?” he asks. Why indeed, because he is a man still passionate about his work. There is a feeling that he could talk all day about many other things related to the industry around which he has built his career. There is a feeling that if you wanted to build a home in the area, you could trust this firm to do it right and you would know that Gil will be overseeing ever detail.

Trease Builders 91 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan 3956 T: (03) 5664 0118 www.treasebuilders.com.au

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GET READY NOW TO BE SWIMMING THIS SUMMER

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WILSONS PROMONTORY Wilsons Promontory National Park affectionately called the Prom, provides a fascinating collection of mountains, forests, wetlands, weathered granite cliffs and pristine beaches to form the southern tip of the Victorian mainland with the surrounding waters being Victoria’s largest marine protected area. Dotted in these waters are small remote Islands, home to a variety of oceanic seabirds and fur seals. Also sighted in this marine national park are pods of playful dolphins and seasonally migrating whales passing through.

These whales migrate annually from Antarctica along the eastern coast of Australia on their way up to warmer waters of Queensland and northern NSW for breeding and calving during the winter months. Returning from this journey around September to November they can be frequently spotted along the Wilsons Promontory coast.

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Mother whales are accompanied by newborn calves, which are taught to identify the features of the coastline so they too can make their way to Queensland and NSW one day. Hence, whales swim close to the shore to “eyeball” the topography of the coast. The playful calves learn how to “whale” on this trip, and engage in all manner of impish shenanigans like breaching, pec waving and tail slaps. Out of curiosity, some may even go up to boats to get an up close and personal encounter.

The best opportunity to view these majestic mammals is with Wildlife Coast Cruises travelling aboard a Wilsons Prom Whale Cruise, and after another successful whale season at Phillip Island with over 200 documented whale sightings, it’s shaping up to be a great season at the Prom. Wildlife Coast Cruises offers a 6-hour whale watching experience that departs from Port Welshpool with a delicious morning tea and lunch.

WHALES

with WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES

Onboard the friendly crew and captain will look after you and are experienced Whale spotters, keeping an eye out for all the tell-tale signs of a whale, including a blow, the dark shape of their backs and even underwater whirlpools called footprints.

On the journey, passengers can experience the spectacular Prom coastline by boat, and encounter other kinds of wildlife such as seals, dolphins and seabirds. The whales at the Prom are mostly Humpbacks, many with calves, but Southern Rights, Orcas and even Blue whales have been reported in the area.

Wilsons Prom Whale Cruises are running Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday between the 31st of August and the 17th of November.

If your looking to explore Wilsons Promontory further with Wildlife Coast Cruises, Full Day Cruises follow the whale season taking you out to see some of the spectacular landmarks in the areas such as: Skull Rock, Kanowna Island Seal Colony, the Wilsons Prom Lighthouse and stop over at the secluded Refuge Cove where you can go ashore for a walk or swim.

Be sure not to miss these amazing experiences, contact Wildlife Coast Cruises on 1300 763 739 or book online at www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

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Lang Lang lifestyle in lang lang INDEX OUR ADVERTISERS AUNTY’S PLACE New and Pre-loved gifts BENDIGO BANK Community Bank® branches BOB COMBER ELECTRICAL SERVICE DC COASTAL Hair Beauty and Clothing FLOURISHING FIGURES Accountant & Tax Agent LANG LANG COMMUNITY CENTRE LANG LANG ENGINEERING Earthmoving accessories LANG LANG EYECARE Clinic & Practice Services LANG LANG DISTRICT FUNERAL SERVICE LANG LANG POST OFFICE Banking, Postal & Travel LARMAX AGRIBARN Hardware & Farm Equipment MOD HAIR STUDIO Professional Hairdressing PALACE HOTEL Tab Facilities, Bottleshop, Food & Beverage PEKARMAN PTY LTD General Cartage & Livestock Transport SUNSCAPE ELECTRICAL WENDY MAY’S CAFÉ & FLOWERS Café, Gifts and Flowers WESTERNPORT CHILD CARE CENTRE & KINDERGARTEN

38 41 49 39 39 49 61 50 49 61 37 49 31 61 36 38 36

OUR CONTENT A STORY FROM THE TRESTLE BRIDGE – The First Soldier of Lang Lang LANG LANG & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY INC. BENDIGO BANK – So what is Community Bank ®?

CERT – Volunteers keep Lang Lang’s heart beating HOWLER BREWERY – Legends, Lager & Lang Lang LANG LANG BUSINESS GROUP – A vision for a vibrant business community LANG LANG GOLF CLUB – Hidden Gem LANG LANG RODEO & SHOW – Muster up at Lang Lang and the Lang Lang Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Association LANG LANG TOWN FEATURE – Idyllic Country Town MARK KNIGHT CARTOON MARK HUNTER – Tigers on the Move ROTARY CLUB of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang

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44-45 42-43 40 47 51-53 46 62-65 58-60 32-35 35 54-57 48

FULL TAB FACILITIES | DRIVE THRU BOTTLE SHOP | COFFEE & TOASTIES AVAILABLE FROM 5.30AM to 11.00AM

BUY A DRINK AND GET A TICKET IN “PICK THE JOKER” EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT AT 8PM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK | OPEN FROM 11AM LUNCH: 12.00PM - 2.00PM | DINNER: 6.00PM - 8.00PM PALACE HOTEL | 140 McDONALDS TRACK LANG LANG, VIC 3984 | PH: 5997 5413 www.palacehotel.net.au

Lang Lang outside Skating rink

Lang Lang Lang Lang is 87 km south east of Melbourne’s CBD, situated within the shires of Cardinia, Bass Coast and South Gippsland local government areas. You will find the village just off the South Gippsland Highway near its intersection with Bass Highway, on the Lang Lang River. Lang Lang also produces nearby beef and dairy farming, and sand mining.

HISTORY The area of Lang Lang and its surrounds are the traditional home of the Boonerwrung people.

Yallock changed hands in 1845, and again in 1851, when it was taken up by a partnership of Mickle, Lyall and Bakewell. In 1857, however, the partnership was dissolved and William Lyall became the sole owner. Lyall then obtained a lease from the Government of all the land in the Monomeith and Caldermeade areas as far as the Lang Lang River, and in 1860, built the home "Harewood", on the shore of Westernport Bay. This home, which is now heritage listed, can be seen from the South Gippsland Highway about 5 km south east of Tooradin.

The Boonerwrung people are one of seven Aboriginal groups that make up the Kulin Nation which inhabited the Port Phillip Bay area. In the Aboriginal language the term ‘lang lang’ means ‘clump of trees’.

Other holdings were taken up as grazing land in the Yannathan and Caldermeade areas, the largest of which was 4500 acres owned by Alexander McMillan. This was later subdivided in 1914, and 3000 acres were sold to the Closer Settlement Board for the resettlement of returned servicemen.

Part of the Lang Lang area was first settled in 1839 by two settlers, Jamieson and Rawsort, who established a station that they named Yallock and their homestead was near the Yallock creek.

In 1890 the South Gippsland railway was opened, and the only stop in the area was at the township of Tobin Yallock, just over the Lang Lang River on the present South Gippsland Highway.

Lang Lang Caravan Park

RSL Mural

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This was also a Cobb & Co. stop on the Melbourne to Bass run. Later this township dwindled, and was reinstated as Lang Lang on the present site of that town. Lang Lang was formerly known as Carrington, after Lord Carrington.

Various reasons were given for the official name change to Lang Lang, as Lord Carrington was not even a Victorian Governor and at that time there was astrong preference for the bush names.

A Lang Lang post office opened on 20 May 1878. In 1891, after the arrival of the railway, it was renamed Lang Lang West and a new Lang Lang office was opened near the station. A post office known as Lang Lang East opened in 1885 but was replaced by Nyora in 1890, again near the station.

The Palace hotel has been part of Lang Lang's landscape and has a strong history with the town since being built in 1939. It deservedly has become a true treasure of the town.

Lang Lang Primary School

Kester Kitchin Park

Lang Lang Cenotaph

Idyllic Country Town The Lang Lang butter factory closed in the 1940s, and the building was used for various industries, including hosiery making.

McDONALDS TRACK The plaque found near the roundabout at the intersection of McDonald’s Track & Westernport Road: “During the early stages of European settlement the wild, heavily timbered hill country created a barrier between the gold fields and pastoral regions of Gippsland and Melbourne. There was a heavy reliance on coastal shipping.

In 1862, after two strenuous years, G.T. McDonald completed the 112 km of rough track 2.1 m wide, from Lang Lang to Morwell.

McDonalds Track created an overland route for bullock drays, stock and travellers. The initial section of that track exists today as the road between Lang Lang and Nyora.”

TRANSPORT The railway station at Lang Lang on the South Gippsland line operated until the closure of the line between Cranbourne Station and Leongatha Station in 1993. This station remains partially intact with its platform, signals and track along this section and is still in reasonable condition.

There is also a trestle bridge approx. 800 metres from the town and despite the thick undergrowth the bridge remains fairly intact.

A V/Line road coach service replaced the rail service to Leongatha on 24 July 1993, running between Melbourne and Yarram.

retail shop area, accounting services, medical clinic, dental clinic, Bendigo Community bank, police station, parks, and a historical society display centre.

EDUCATION Lang Lang Primary School No. 2899 was established in 1888.

Lang Lang Primary School is a co-educational school that reaches approximately 188 students between Prep and Year 6. The primary education facility is considered adequate but secondary school aged children have to travel to nearby towns.

LANG LANG FORESHORE

TOWN CENTRE Lang Lang is a rural service centre complete with post office, showgrounds, hall, hotel, brewery, cafes, funeral service, Lang Lang Community centre, primary school, kindergarten, maternal and child health services, churches, expanding

Nearby is the Lang Lang foreshore, a 4 km strip of coastline on Westernport Bay, reached from the highway along Jetty Lane. There is a boat ramp, and it is always advisable to make sure you are aware of the ever-changing tides. At low tide, an immense mudflat’s area is exposed, which is the habitat of many water birds and sea creatures.

Lang Lang Community Bank ® branch

Dick Jones Park

Canon in the Kester Kitchin Park

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Lang Lang LLFC running out for the final game being played v Yarragon at Lang Lang Showgrounds

New Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct

The foreshore area is a camping area. Nearby are rows of small boat sheds and small permanent caravans and cabins next to the beach. Part of this area is classified as a Heritage Overlay, specified as ‘typical of a 1950s style coast resort’.

In fact, there was once a salt water swimming pool that was located where the current toilet block is situated.

SPORT & ATTRACTIONS The town has an Australian rules football team competing in the Ellinbank & District Football League as well as a netball team. Golfers play at the course of the Lang Lang Golf Club on the South Gippsland Highway, Nyora which is regarded as one of the finest sandbelt courses in South Gippsland. The club rooms are licensed, and food is available.

In August 2019, The Lang Lang Football and Netball Club played their last game at the Showgrounds and are eagerly looking forward to playing at the new state of the art recreation facility. The precinct will be located in Lang Lang on land bordered by Soldiers Road to the east and Caldermeade Road to the north. This major recreation and community precinct will be established at Lang Lang in an exciting new partnership between the Government and Lang Lang Community Bank ®

2019 WATTLE FESTIVAL Date: September 8 Time: 2.00pm – 3.30pm Location: Lang Lang Memorial Hall 135 McDonalds Track, Lang Lang

EVENTS

The Flower Show is held annually and has been running for over 100 years.

The RODEO has been held regularly at Lang Lang on Easter Monday since the 1940s. Another popular event is the annual AGRICULTURAL SHOW and this event is held on the third Saturday in January. Both events bring thousands of visitors to the town. Also popular are the CHRISTMAS CAROLS and EASTER EGG HUNT events.

2019 LANG LANG ANNUAL FLOWER SHOW Date: October 26 Time: From 10.00am Location: Lang Lang Community Centre 7 Westernport Road, Lang Lang

It’s a wonderful community event, giving entrants the opportunity to showcase their favourite blooms and plants.

The new Netball courts

Lang Lang Police Station

1st Lang Lang Scout Group

Lang Lang and District Historical Society

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Lang Lang v Yarragon

The new Football ground

TRIBUTES DICK JONES PARK – Nice spot in lovely town Lang Lang has a lot to offer in way of food and shopping for such a small town. There is also a great little park that has plenty of shade with shelter, tables and a BBQ, a playground with slides, and climbing wall etc that is next to a skate park.

SHOPPING IN LANG LANG “I love all the things in the shop, somewhere that you have to go back to a number of times, you could spend most of the day, great place if looking for a beautiful gift, something for everyone”.

New and Pre loved AUNTY’S PLACE.

Cartoon kindly drawn and supplied

by Mark Knight of the Herald Sun

Howler Brewery

A community-driven country town and a beautiful place to visit, or if you are looking at settling in a picturesque village, this is the place to be.

Photographs by Doug Pell Trestle Bridge photograph courtesy of Lang Lang and District Historical Society Aerial photograph of the new sport precinct is courtesy of Lang Lang Community Bank ® branch

References Lang Lang and District Historical Society Wikipedia encyclopedia Cardinia Shire Council Victoria Places

Fergal – Barman at Howler Brewery

Lang Lang v Yarragon Netball

Peter and Jean Hayden of the Lang Lang & District Historical Society

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Child Care, Kinder, Preschool and Early Learning for all children

Affordable High Quality Child Care centre and Early Learning centre for 22 years Our Locations LANG LANG 1 Station St Lang Lang 03 5997 5887

KOO WEE RUP 344 Rossiter Rd Koo Wee Rup 03 5997 1378

CRANBOURNE 144 Camms Rd Cranbourne 03 5995 4970

www.westernportchildcare.com 36

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HASTINGS 249 Marine Parade Hastings 03 5979 7336

LARMAX

AGRIBARN • FARM EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES • HARDWARE • STOCKFEED • TIMBER & STEEL • LPG GAS • PLY BOARD • PLASTERBOARD

The name ‘Larmax’ was created by Laraine and Max Papley in 1968 to form a company to purchase a block of three flats in Rohans Road, Moorabbin.

In January 1988 Laraine and Max decided they wanted a change in direction and sold the farm.

They then purchased a small hardware store in Lang Lang.

Larmax Agribarn is your real Family business now owned and run by Laraine and Max’s kids, Cathy and Paul Dawes, Vicki and Alan Ross and David and Susie Papley.

In 1971 Laraine and Max, with four kids in tow, Cathy, Vicki, David and Karen moved 95kms east of Moorabbin to a 375 acre property in the rolling hills of Tonimbuk in West Gippsland.

Positioned on the corner of Station and Oxford streets, the store is part of the Ruralco (CRT) and Mitre10 buying groups, with a diverse range of products from small hardware to plumbing, rural fencing, stockfeed, and timber, and are an Elgas agent and Industrial gas BOC Agency.

In the 31 years of business in Lang Lang and 26 years at Garfield our Family is very proud to be part of our local communities.

In 1993 Larmax branched out and opened another store in the main street of Garfield and after a couple of years moving to a bigger premises on the Princes Highway.

For all your Farm Equipment & Supplies and more...

Initially running beef cattle, they then made the move to dairy, which then became a very successful Jersey Stud ‘Tallagandra’ producing many champion winners at shows around Gippsland and breeding ‘The Champion Dairy Cow’ at the Royal Melbourne Show. Max always says "it’s the equivalent to The Brownlow Medal."

WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS Weekdays: 7.30am-5.30pm Saturday: 8.30am-12.00pm Sunday: 9.30am-12.30pm

proud to be part of our local community

LARMAX

AGRIBARN

2 STATION STREET, LANG LANG 3984 Phone: 5997 5215 Drive -Thru Entrance Available

LARMAX

AGRIBARN

Dine in comfort in our relaxed, friendly and welcoming atmosphere providing a great selection of cakes, slices, sandwiches, hot and cold meals and all-day breakfast. Eat in or take away. We offer catering for business groups, community groups, parties and in-house functions (By Appointment).

A traditional and diverse Café situated in Lang Lang, providing the local community and visitors travelling through Lang Lang on the way to Gippsland tourist areas.

Providing good "Old fashioned Home Style" cooking, all prepared on the premises. Alternative dietary needs are also a specialty with Gluten Free, Vegetarian & Vegan options.

Monday Closed Tuesday – Friday 8.��am – 3.��pm Saturday & Sunday 8.��am – 3.��pm

Contact: 0409 568 279 49C Westernport Road, Lang Lang 3984 www.wendymayscafe.com.au

Wendy May’s also provides a range of gifts, and flowers “made to order”.

Find us on Google maps – Just type in “WendyMays Café” & Facebook on www.facebook.com/wendymayscafe/

AUNTY'S PLACE

WONDERFUL PLACE TO GET LOST IN...

NEW AND PRE-LOVED GIFTS

Thursday to Monday ��:��am - �:��pm

�6 Westernport Road Lang Lang 3�8� Ph: (03) 5997 5200 Like us on Facebook

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Accountant & Tax Agent Lang Lang + Cowes 1300 865 624 | info@ff.tax

Shelley Beilharz CA

We < heart > working with family businesses and we know how to speak your language. We think numbers are fun and we want to inspire you to understand your own money story. flourishingfigures.com.au

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MANICURE | PEDICURE | HAIR | EYELASH EXTENSIONS | MAKEUP | FACIALS | SPRAY TAN | WEDDINGS | MASSAGE | CLOTHING

Come in and see our friendly team at Lang Lang & Grantville to make a booking or simply call!

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Lang Lang Shop 1/14-16 Western Port Rd, Lang Lang VIC 3984 (03) 5997 5068

Grantville Shop 3/1509 Bass Hwy, Grantville VIC 3984 (03) 5678 8847 gippsland lifestyle spring ����

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So, what is ® Community Bank ?

Branch Manager, Chris Wood with staff: Eve Cameron Molly Farnham and Stacey Tannard

The Lang Lang Community Bank® branch is a locally owned and operated company, which functions as a franchise of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank. The Bank provides the coverage of its banking licence, a full range of banking products, training of staff and ongoing support.

And behind those numbers are thousands of stories of Community Bank® branches making a real difference to the lives of local people. Our Community Bank® branches are helping improve the economic and social prospects of their local communities.

The Bank and the community company are each entitled to agreed portions of the revenue of the local Community Bank® branch and the local company is responsible for paying branch running costs.

The essence of the Community Bank® is in sharing the responsibilities and rewards between the community and our bank. Communities across Australia have accepted the responsibility of providing start-up capital and making their branches successful - and are increasingly reaping rewards that aren't just limited to banking.

When the local company begins to make a regular operating surplus, after the payment of branch running costs, and the Bank's share of the revenue is received, the remaining funds are available to be reinvested back into the community through dividends to shareholders and grants to community groups and projects.

Between 1993 and 2000, more than 2,050 bank branches closed across Australia. These closures represented a 29% reduction in branch numbers in just seven years and many communities were left without branch banking facilities. Bendigo Bank identified this trend and recognised the impact the reduction in branch numbers was having on communities.

The Community Bank® story first started in 1998 when Bendigo Bank partnered with the Victorian communities, with the Lang Lang community being one of the first Community Bank® branches in Australia providing banking services to their town.

When it first started, Community Bank® was eagerly sought out by many rural communities looking for a sustainable solution to branch banking that could be quickly implemented, but the model has proven to translate into metropolitan communities with almost half of the Community Bank® network now based in the major cities of Australia.

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In the early days, most attention was focused on how the Community Bank® concept has secured face-to-face banking services for local communities. Of course, this is important, but it ignores the tremendous social and economic contributions being made by Community Bank® branches as more capital is retained locally, more commercial activity is stimulated and the confidence of local community leaders increases.

We continue to witness the tangible results produced by the Community Bank® model - not just in rural areas, but in our regional centres and the suburbs of our capital cities.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank continues to participate in the development of the Community Bank® model with an enormous sense of pride. We are indeed fortunate to partner with many vibrant and successful communities.

Today, more than 20 years later, $205 million in community contributions and 324 Community Bank® branches throughout Australia, why not come and join us and be a part of the better big bank.

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e Hotel. oft's, Palac Mary Flint ngle story Coffee y a si nsed Originall ed and lice 89, extend ated beside 18 c e ac al P oc l c 1894. L into a hote line. the railway

Main street, same location c 1932. Glover's have built a garage between the house and the Mechanics Institute, which has had the extended facade added to it. G.W Smith also has a garage on the other side.

HISTORY

"Lang Lang and District Soldiers Memorial Hall and Free Library”. The impressive brick facade was added to the old Mechanics Institute in 1925 and renamed as a memorial to the Soldiers of WWI. The entrance is flanked by marble Honour Rolls for the men of Lang Lang, Yannathan and Yallock.

Lang Lang & District

A meeting was called in the Lang Lang Community Centre (the former Water Trust Offices) in 1998 to determine if there was sufficient interest to establish a body to collect historical information.

Twenty people attended and it was then decided to form a society.

The Lang Lang and District Historical Society was formed two weeks later at a meeting in the Community Centre on 18 April 1998. Eight people attended and six apologies tendered. Gordon Sampson was elected President, Kevin Findlay as Secretary and Joy Adderley as Treasurer.

The name Lang Lang and District Historical Society was adopted and the annual membership fee was set. It was also decided that the Society would meet at the Community Centre on the second Monday of each month.

The key factor behind the establishment of the Society was a growing awareness that Lang Lang was over 100 years old and much of its history was gradually disappearing as the older settlers pass on and others moved out of the area.

The next meeting was held in May 1998, and twenty-one people attended and the balance of the Committee was elected. Thirteen people were recorded as Financial Members.

Over time the Society has gathered a considerable amount of information and memorabilia. The Cardinia Shire Council has leased the former Infant Welfare Centre building to the Society as a storage and display centre, for their collection.

The Society became affiliated with the South Eastern Historical Association in July 1998, and their application for Incorporation was approved on 7 April 1999.

St. John’s Church of England. The oldest building in the town. Built in 1887 at the old town site and moved in 1894 to its present site. It is currently in a very neglected condition, but the basic structure is still in good restorable condition.

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Smith's garage c 1930. Located beside the police station.

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The Society is pleased to look back and see the way that they have been accepted and supported by the broader community. More and more people are donating memorabilia.

Railway Coffee Palace c 1904 corner of Main & Roseberry Sts.

Police Sta tion & re sidence c end of W WI. Phot 1904. Dec o 1918. C orner of M orated to celebrate ain and O ldbury Sts .

Lang Lang Butter Factory c 1893.

Main street, looking south from near the railway. On the right, Fell's general store, ES&A bank, Sparrow's drapery. Left are a park and the Railway Coffee Palace.

Railway Station and yards c 1900.

Historical Society Inc.

LOOKING FORWARD

Their aim is to keep the public well informed of what they are doing and hope that you may join them as custodians of the past on behalf of future generations.

If you have the desire to learn a little more about the history of the lovely little town of Lang Lang, new members are welcome any time.

The Society now meets on the third Tuesday monthly at 1.30 pm at the Lang Lang Historical Display Centre, Kester Kitchin Park, Whitstable Street, Lang Lang.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

Hours open Wednesday 11 am - 3 pm and every 3rd Sunday 1.30 - 3.30 pm

Photographs courtesy of Lang Lang and District Historical Society Inc. The Lang Lang Butter Factory photograph from the State Library Victoria collection.

Contact information PO Box 8, Lang Lang, Victoria, 3984 lldhs.sec@gmail.com www.langlang.net Follow us on Facebook Information from the Lang Lang and District Historical Society

The butter factory was extended and rebuilt in brick in 1927 after extensive storm damage. Photo c 1935.

Main street, (Westernport Road) c 1914 - on the left is W.Glover's home, (still there) Mechanics Institute and Alloway's boot makers shop. On the left is G.K. McGrath, painter and decorator.

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A Story from the TRESTLE BRIDGE Frank Keighery 24th Battalion of Lang Lang / Australian War Memorial

THE FIRST SOLDIER OF LANG LANG WORDS BY JE MILLER

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Leaving Melbourne on the HMAT Euripides A14 on the 10th of May 1915 / Australian War Memorial

As a storyteller I am always aware of the responsibility that rests with me to do justice to any story that is gifted to me to tell. The enchanting town of Lang Lang has such a rich history filled with comradery, bravery and community, epitomising true Australian spirit, that I am honoured to share it with you. If you have already heard this tale from the little treasure in South East Gippsland that is the town of Lang Lang, then I hope you enjoy reminiscing with me. Before I begin, I pay my respects to the first storytellers of our beautiful country, elders past, present and emerging, whom in the area of Lang Lang, were the Bunurong Aboriginal people. With gratitude I humbly thank them for allowing us to share our stories on their land. As one of the founding members of the Lang Lang and District Historical Society once said about her cherished town, “What a story we have to tell.”

The third of four children of a founding family, Frank probably grew up as many young people did in the town, swimming near the Lang Lang River bridge… running in the glorious Gippsland summer sun, through the trees and down the bank to the cool water. As I gaze into the distance and imagine the landscape at a time when it was properly maintained, I can almost hear their laughter and cries of glee as the train rattled past overhead. I can picture Frank seated in a small lecture style class room, at a timber desk with a lift-up lid practising his writing… possibly thinking about the regular lunchtime football or cricket match ahead. He often played music with his family to raise money for improvements in the town, while the birthdays of his youth, in the middle of winter, were likely spent by an open fire reading books filled with exciting adventures of distant lands.

Having dinner with a film scout friend of mine recently, I was enthralled to hear the things that he looks for when finding the perfect place for his upcoming films. As he spoke, I kept thinking of the beautiful images of the charming Lang Lang River trestle bridge… the longest timber trestle bridge surviving on the original Dandenong Leongatha section of the Great Southern Railway.

Those images, along with a beautiful picture of a railway track meandering through a dense treescape, reminded me of one of my favourite films, Stand By Me. A beautiful coming of age film, these poignant images stir memories of four young boys on the adventure of a lifetime, as they journey into the mysterious unknown of adulthood.

An avid sportsman and dearly loved by his community Frank went on to become an apprentice printer at the Lang Lang Guardian, until 1915 when he became the first man of Lang Lang to enlist in WWI. After a large send off given in his honour in the Memorial Hall, the heart of the community, he left to embark on an adventure of his own. I picture him there, at the tender age of 20, brave and expectant, gazing out from the train window as it pulled out of the station. Leaving Melbourne on the HMAT Euripides A14 on the 10th of May 1915 for Egypt, Frank likely spent his 21st birthday in an infantry camp, under the shadow of the Great Sphinx, and in no need of an open fire to keep warm.

Bonds of friendship and mateship, sacrifice and honour are entwined in their story, just as they are in the abundantly quaint town of Lang Lang.

In particular the story of one of its residents from years past, the son of a boot maker, Frank Keighery.

On September 4th, 1915, Frank and the 24th Battalion arrived on the shores of Gallipoli. A few days after his arrival, Frank wrote a letter home, describing how “…the whiz of the missiles reminded us that our playing at war was over, and that we were in the real thing.”

Far from the carefree boy once swimming under the Lang Lang River trestle bridge, Private Frank Keighery had certainly come of age. Acutely aware of the dangers he faced, he wrote: “Don’t worry about me… and if the Higher Powers decree that I should pay the extreme price you will know that it will be for some good end…” On September 11th 1915, Frank became the first Lang Lang man to valiantly give his life in service.

Frank and some places of his childhood may be lost to memory - the Memorial Hall and his school building both lost to fire, and the trestle bridge overgrown and no longer accessible - but his community has continued to flourish. The Lang Lang Op Shop raised the funds to rebuild the Memorial Hall, and still raises over $40,000 each year to help the local community. The school was rebuilt in 1973, and even today members of the wider community are working together towards repairing and re-establishing the iconic Great Southern Railway. People stand by each other with helping hands and generous hearts in a thriving town that is as resilient as it is beautiful.

Frank’s legacy in both his town and country remains. The peace and freedom won by many, including a once carefree boy from Lang Lang who played music with his family, will always be remembered.

Pvt Frank Keighery’s last letter home can be found in the Australian War Memorial archives.

More on the author can be found at www.rememberlestweforget.com and for more information about the captivating history of this charming town please search for the Lang Lang and District Historical Society on Facebook.

Trestle Bridge, Memorial Hall and rail photos courtesy of The Lang Lang & District Historical Society

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A VISION FOR A VIBRANT BUSINESS COMMUNITY

BEHIND ANY THRIVING COMMUNITY IS A POWERFUL ENGINE, ALBEIT QUIET AND UNASSUMING, THAT TURNS THE COGS OF TOWNS THAT MAY OTHERWISE STRUGGLE TO BLOSSOM WHEN UP AGAINST MODERN DAY CHALLENGES. WORDS ANITA BUTTERWORTH

Chris Wood: Branch Manager Lang Lang Community Bank® Branch - Ian Clark: Wendy May’s Cafe - Alison Welsby: Lang Lang Post Office - Shelley Beilharz: Flourishing Figures Laura McBride: Executive Officer, Lang Lang Community Bank®Branch Scratch below the surface and you’ll soon find groups of like-minded, determined and driven people who volunteer their time to ensure a strong community future – just like the Lang Lang Business Group.

In the past couple of years the group has been reinvigorated, with a clear mission to be a voice and advocate for the Lang Lang business community.

“I came on as Secretary in 2016 and at this point I know that the group had transitioned from the Lang Lang Traders Association to Lang Lang Business Group,” explains Lang Lang Community Bank® Branch Executive Officer Laura McBride.

“A new committee was formed along with a clear vision, mission and goals were set to help group the LLBG relevance in the community. My understanding was the LLTA was a little sedentary and the refresh was needed otherwise the group would not be here.”

With a new committee came new goals and objectives. At its core, the committee was committed to providing opportunities for increases to business momentum and growth. This includes supporting local business in their growth and future viability, being a voice and advocating on behalf of business and creating event opportunities.

“Our committee is made up of a variety of skills and resources and all of whom have a hands on experience with running their own businesses and working alongside each other within the community. We at times have other members attend our meetings which we regularly encourage to add a fresh take on our meetings and the ideas that come from them.

“We have experts in accounting, banking, marketing, social media, event coordination, strategic thinking, certainly a great mix!”

In just the past 18 months, the Lang Lang Business Group has been involved in organising the Lang Lang Christmas Carols, Lang Lang Easter Egg Hunt, the Lang Lang Security Awareness Event, the Lang Lang Business Builders Night, the community newsletter, organised Welcome Packs for new residents, highlighting what is available in town, coordinated the Lang Lang Boomerang Bags, held monthly committee meetings, hosted the Small Business Bus (a State Government intuitive), run the ‘Shop for 5 Promotion’ and the Tour Lang Lang promotion.

The hard-working committee is part of a wider picture – keeping the spirit of Lang Lang alive.

“The community of Lang Lang naturally has a sense of resilience this is shown through the manner in which its volunteers have a can-do attitude.

Lang Lang has a long history of dedicated volunteers who have helped build the town into what it is today. As much as we have had a large amount of growth and residential development in the recent years we still have the country feel of walking down the main street and giving a wave to those we pass.

“It is important for the town to have a thriving small business network and this is what the LLBG aims to support. Having empty shops within a small town does not invite locals to shop locally, it does not invite travellers to stop. We are fortunate in recent months we have had four new shops open including a dentist, two cafes and our milk bar re-opened. With a neighbouring community hosting a major chain supermarket our community has to continually try harder to encourage locals to shop locally and not venture across the river.”

LANG LANG BUSINESS GROUP COMMITTEE President

Shelley Beilharz (Business Owner, Flourishing Figures- Accounting)

Vice-President Robin Elijah (Business Owner, Lang Lang Post Office) Secretary

Laura McBride (Executive Officer, Lang Lang Community Bank® Branch)

Treasurer

Melanie Leighton (Business Owner, Sunscape electrical)

Committee Members Ian Clark (Wendy May’s Café) Chris Wood (Branch Manager of Bendigo Bank) Bob Comber (Comber Electrical) Tony Whittle (Stihl Mower Shop)

Photograph by Doug Pell

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CERT VOLUNTEERS KEEP LANG LANG’S HEART BEATING

Rosie Keane was walking past her local Lang Lang shops when she spotted a sign from Ambulance Victoria. She had no idea that her decision to stop and read the callout for volunteers would play such a huge role in her life for the next 15 years.

“This was because the closest Ambulance, lights and sirens was 40 minutes away,” Rosie explained.

“The team would be trained by Ambulance Victoria paramedics and the initial course was 100 hours plus weekly training every Tuesday night, to keep skills and accreditation up.

“I put my name on the list, stating I didn’t have any experience, had spent the last 10 years having four children, feeding and changing nappies, but would like to fit something else in around the kids and working from home. I was told there would be lots of different adults, from varied backgrounds, hoping to help the community as well.”

In a relatively small community, this sort of volunteer commitment may have seemed like a hard sell, but more than a decade later the CERT team is still in service. It’s had up to 20 members in the team at any one time, and 70 people have volunteered their time for CERT over the past 15 years.

These volunteers are usually the first on the scene in an emergency, in a town where it’s highly likely they could be treating a familiar face.

“We are despatched via 000 simultaneously with paramedics, and will treat patients until paramedics arrive, and then assist if required. We do not transport patients. We have a wide range of equipment, including medications and defibrillator.”

As well as responding in an emergency, Lang Lang CERT also volunteers at community events.

“We provide support for a lot of local events such as the Lang Lang Rodeo, Christmas Carols, primary school market and teaching CPR/ AED to different community groups, and school groups. This includes the continual rostering of Ambulance First Responders (CERT) to cover the roster as well as have members covering events at the same time.”

The team works tirelessly in the community, without an actual physical building to call home.

“As the Team doesn’t have a branch, most of us go on call from home. Our local bakery is our meeting place and office to catch up with one another, especially for myself with meetings with team managers. Members of the community can find us here at some stage of the day.

“Some of the community members will come and have a chat with us, especially when they see a familiar face, and may ask for help with a problem, that we can assist with, or putting them on to the right people that can. The older community members, sometimes just want someone to talk to for half an hour.

“As far as we are concerned, we are happy to help in any way we can, and that doesn’t always mean that someone needs an ambulance.”

While the team has extensive training as first responders, Rosie says the community also plays a huge role in an emergency situation.

“The community can really make a big difference before we arrive, especially when someone has a sudden death cardiac arrest. In an exciting development, we’ve recently introduced a smartphone app called GoodSAM that will notify registered responders if someone has a cardiac arrest nearby, so they can go and begin CPR. You can sign up if you have a first aid qualification. There’s more information on the Ambulance Victoria website.”

Lang Lang CERT is made up of a wide variety of locals, and Rosie believes that’s what makes it such a strong team.

“Each member has a different personality, learns and copes in life different ways. I believe that everyone has something in common; we love being part of a community where we can help others and assist them in their time of need. We have learned many skills, become more confident and learned empathy and sympathy if we did not have it.”

Lang Lang CERT is currently down to 15 members, and is urgently looking for more Lang Lang locals to help cover shifts, after initial training.

Photograph courtesy of Lang Lang CERT

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ROTARY CLUB OF KOO WEE RUP-LANG LANG A CHANGING OF THE GUARD Words Anita Butterworth

Sometimes change comes about so slowly that it’s barely noticeable, but eventually it’s so ingrained that it becomes the norm. For the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang, having a female president at the helm this year is the culmination of a welcome undercurrent of change that’s been brewing for the past two decades.

Like so many other regional communities, Rotary has a proud and long history in the Koo Wee Rup / Lang Lang area. The club was chartered in 1974, within Rotary district 9820, and three charter members remain current members. In previous years the club has had upwards of 28 members, and is currently sitting at 22 – five of which are female.

“As per the Rotary tenant we put service above self and in our business and professional lives we abide by the Four Way test. Of the things we think, say or do: 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4. Will it be BENEFICAL to all concerned?”

For information on the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang contact Graham via email: rckooweeruplanglang@gmail.com Images courtesy of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang Rotary Club

“This year our president is female,” explained secretary Graham Warry. “Like many associations the membership tended to be male concentric; however in the past 15 to 20 years our club membership has had nearly a quarter of female representation.”

And while the increase of women in the club is welcome, like many volunteer organisations, the club is facing increasing pressure to find new members.

“Like many service organisations membership is down, this is attributed to many social pressures. If you ask our long term members they made time, as the pressure for family life is the same today as it was when the club was chartered. We can all defer to different life pressures but it is personal wanting to give back to your community and giving of your time and getting “thank yous” from your community members is very rewarding.”

The club is extremely active in the community, raising funds through several events throughout the year.

“The club raises funds by running the yearly golf day in October at Lang Lang Golf Course, community BBQ’s at clearing sales, pony clubs, local events such as the Carols and the Show and Shine event held in February.

We also assist other local Rotary Clubs with their events when requested such as the RC Drouin Lardner Park Motorfest.”

Committee 2019-20. L to R Front : Wendy Easton (Youth Chair) Judy Wright (President 2019-20) Dean Turner (Past President 2018-19) Rudy deJong (Treasurer) Back: Sam Loughridge (Vocational Chair) Graham Warry (Secretary) Harold Keily (Community Chair)

At the core of what the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang does is a desire to give back. Be it through direct support or continued involvement throughout the community, particularly in times of hardship.

“We give back to our local, national and international community by giving scholarships to KooWeeRup Secondary College, supporting the Life Education van, local working bees, youth support for Rotary events such as MUNA, RYPEN and RYLA, sponsor the Harry Bould Program at Cardinia Shire to send students to walk the Kokoda trail and the Rotary International Program to eradicate Polio to name a few of our (Rotary) projects.

“Lately we have had fires, floods and drought affected areas of our country and we as part of Rotary have supported our communities. One of our greatest assists would have to be the new sporting precinct at Caldermeade for the Lang Lang Sporting Associations with the local community bank and Cardinia Shire in being a facilitator in getting the first stage underway. We would do the same for any of our local communities to facilitate a project like this again. We will not be part of the operating management of this precinct that will be for the user groups and shire to manage.”

Past Presidents above left to right standing: Jan Kruizinga 95/96 & 2016/17, Sam Loughridge 2001/2002 & 14/15, Max Kneebone 77/78, Ken Male 80/81, Bob Comber 05/06, Geoff Reeve 86/87 , Keith Bethune 89/90, John Williams 92/93, Kevin Corbett 98/99, Rudy de Jong 09/10, Kneeling down: Hayden Giles 12/13, Dean Turner 18/19, John McDonell 07/08 & 17/18, Graham Warry 15/16

In the last financial year, the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang donated nearly $40,000 to community projects, and the group anticipates it will do similar for 2019-2020.

“The work that Rotary does and all volunteer organisations is helping people in our community. A lot of it does go by unseen by some, and for those who receive assistance from us they are most appreciative.

At the changeover on 23 June 2019 at Lang Lang Sports and Social Club (Showgrounds) Robert Comber awarded a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire Pin and Graham Warry awarded a Paul Harris Fellow Pin by Janet McCahon Past District 9820 Governor, for services to community

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MOD

HAIR STUDIO

Fully qualified and totally professional service in a relaxed and friendly environment. Fully trained staff in all aspects of hairdressing.

Tuesday | Wednesday | Friday 9am to 5pm Thursday 9am to 9pm | Saturday 9am to 2pm

25 Westernport Road, LANG LANG 3984 Phone: 5997 5933

LANG LANG COMMUNITY CENTRE 7 WESTERNPORT RD, LANG LANG

5997 5704

Lang Lang Community Centre is a friendly and inclusive meeting place for the whole community.

LLCC has two part time Coordinators and is run by a volunteer Committee of Management, with financial support from Department of Health & Human Services and Cardinia Shire. The Centre offers a wide range of activities and programs for all ages. Lifestyle activities including Cardio, Pilates, Tai Chi, Walking Group, Yoga and Line Dancing.

Public Internet Access, Secretarial Support Services & Printing.

Book Exchange, Room Hire.

We have a variety of Patchwork groups for the ladies and Men’s Shed for the blokes. A Playgroup for the littlies and a dedicated computer for Centrelink (DHS). Weekly Maternal & Child Health Service.

llcc@langlang.net

Bob Comber Electrical ELECTRICIAN & ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LANG LANG, VIC 3984 DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • FARMING FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS 40 Years Electrical Experience From new homes & extensions to emergency repairs

CALL 5997 5515 - 0418 396 856 Victorian Electrical Licence - A14618 gippsland lifestyle spring ����

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Left to right are Kaye McCraw, Janelle Chambers, Paul Crook & Tiarn Barrie-Moore

eyecare for individuals CLINICAL + PRACTICE SERVICES • Bulk Billed Comprehensive Eye Health Examinations for all ages • Retinal Photography • OCT Scanning • Corneal Topography • Colorimetry Assessment • Contact Lens Assessment & Fitting • Vicroads Visual Assessments • Foreign Body Removal • Dry Eye Management • Diabetic Eye Examination

WHY CHOOSE US? Lang Lang Eyecare was established in the rural community of Lang Lang in 1996. Owner and optometrist, Kaye McCraw has a passion for delivering individualised eyecare to all members of the community. We specialise in children's vision, eye disease management, and the care of patients with complex conditions. Our focus is on understanding patients' individual needs and providing management pathways and eyecare solutions to suit each individual. We have been operating for 24 years.

Our vision is to continue to expand our equipment, knowledge, skills and service delivery and be recognised as an industry leader for Optometry.

WHY WE CHOSE TO BE INDEPENDENT? We love the autonomy of independent practice in the management of our patients' eye health. It also allows us the freedom to spend as much time as necessary to help each of our patients to find a solution to suit their visual problems and recommend the best quality lens and frame materials.

CLINICAL + PRACTICE SERVICES • • • • • • • • • •

Eye Disease Co-Management Children's Vision Low Vision Quality Eyewear Solutions Sunglasses & Accessories Sports, Safety & Occupational Vision Corrections Frame Repairs & Adjustments Veteran's Affairs Services Victorian Eyecare Scheme Onsite Health Fund Claiming

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT LANG LANG? We love that Lang Lang is a community that predominately looks after itself and its community members. Our many volunteer organisations and local community bank work together to provide services, resources, social connectivety and sporting facilities for the benefit of the whole community.

EYEWEAR BRANDS Nike, Furla, Prodesign, Longchamp, Humphries, Caroline Abram, Nautica, Marchon, Van Staveren, Marc Vincent, Columbia, Flexon, Stepper, Nine West, Anne Klein, Kliik,Catimini, Star Wars, Jacadi & Lacoste.

Sunglass Brands | Maui Jim, Oroton, Bill Bass, Fish, Cancer Council & Fitovers.

CONTACT LENS SOLUTIONS & OPTICAL ACCESSORIES.

Business hours | Monday to Friday 9 am - 5 pm (after hours by appointment) Office Phone | 03 5997 5525

OPTOMETRIST | Kaye McCraw (therapeutically endorsed) OPTICAL DISPENSERS | Tiarn Barrie-Moore, Paul Crook & Janelle Chambers

www.provision.com.au/practice/lang-lang-eyecare [ includes booking online link ]

Legends, lager & Lang Lang NAMED AFTER A LOCAL LEGEND, LANG LANG’S HOWLER BREWING COMPANY HAS ITSELF RACKED UP LEGENDARY STATUS. PERHAPS IT’S BECAUSE OF THE STELLAR LOCAL BREWS, OR THE CRACKING GRUB, MAYBE EVEN THE CHEEKY OWNER WHO ONLY ADDS TO THE MYSTERY. OR MAYBE IT’S A COMBINATION OF NOT KNOWING WHERE LEGEND ENDS AND REALITY BEGINS. WORDS: ANITA BUTTERWORTH

In just two years since opening its doors, Howler Brewing Company has cemented its place as a popular Westernport Road haunt. Through hard work, innovation and a passion for using local, Matt Payne has found a happy niche serving up carefully crafted beers and cider as well as fare for true foodies. And it probably helps that Matt has injected more than just a pinch of his personality into the business.

“Folklore of the area states that the Howler battled the Bunyip for hundreds of years until only one survived, the Howler, and now it wonders the swamp, unchastised, chasing small children and drinking the dregs out of empty stubbies,” Matt says.

“Howler Brewing Company was born of a dream, a dream where the Howler itself came to me and told me to open a brewery in the swamplands it inhabits,” he jokes.

Before settling in Bunyip and turning his hand to beer, Matt worked in the construction and demolition industry, among other things: “I was previously an elite athlete and I was looking for a new challenge. So I got a job as a Garbologist and then decided to open a brewery after the Howler itself came to me in a dream.”

Before opening Howler, Matt was able to experiment and hone his skills by ‘nomadic’ brewing.

“Brewing for us started out as 'Gypsy Brewers', a practice where you go to other breweries, brew on their equipment and basically rent fermentation space. Although expensive, it's a great way to start out when you don't have much capital behind you and buying your own equipment is out of the question. It's also a fantastic way to learn and gather brewing knowledge from experienced and top Australian Brewers.

“We were very lucky to brew with Black Dog, Craft and Co and Burnley Brewing during this time and these guys still provide us with support to this day. Legends. We now have our own Brewhouse on-site, a 600L system that will become our pilot system when we go bigger. It's only a few months old and we are still getting to know it, which is great fun as each time we brew we feel we get closer to knowing it very well, and that's when we can have some real fun. We both keg and package our beer (375ml cans) both for our bar and to sell wholesale.”

The list of beers on offer at Howler is as impressive in flavour as they are in name. There’s the smooth Lang Lang Lager, The Not So Pale – Pale Ale, Heavy Hop Sack, Love Me Long Time Pilsner (brewed to be loved for a long time) and the She’ll Be Apples Cider (which sources apples from Officer).

Howler Brewing Company is all about fresh, small batch brews ‘packed full of malt, hops and yeast, without all the rubbish added by the big boys’.

“We make beers that we love, plus beers that are needed in our market. As we Gypsy Brewed for two years we were limited with what beers we could brew, due to cost and available space. Going forward we will be fully exploring the sour world of brewing, following up on our very successful 'Howler Sour', and malt forward beers will also feature strongly.”

The beers pair perfectly with the impressive Howler menu, which boasts signature burgers and hearty pub fare.

“With the restaurant side of the business we try to provide high quality comfort food with a Howler twist, we work closely with our experienced chefs to constantly change things up, whilst complimenting what beers we have on tap at the time.

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We also support local businesses when sourcing our ingredients, and in our part of the world that's easy with so many fantastic producers on our doorstep.”

The food and beer marry perfectly with the venue, carefully chosen for its atmosphere and prime location.

“Our building is circa 1929 and was originally the English Scottish and English Bank (ES&A).

According to general opinion the building then changed hands to the ANZ in the early 70s before they left town around seven years ago. The building then stood unoccupied for approximately five years until we came along.

We love our building, it is a complete beast, and we think it complements the business perfectly.”

Rounding off Howler’s strong offerings is its employees, who Matt says make the business what it is.

“We are very lucky to have fantastic local staff who are the heart of the business.

Before we opened we were lucky enough to travel not only around Melbourne, but also overseas to visit different breweries to see how they operated. And every place we went to, no matter how good the beer/food/set up was, the staff were always key to our experience.

“Great staff = great experience and of course the opposite for not so great staff. Once again, the local area has come through with the goods, as we have brilliant, young, local people who help make Howler Brewing Company what it is today.”

The popularity of Howler Brewing Company, along with its enviable reputation as being ‘fiercely independent’ has only continued to grow since it opened in 2017, and much of the credit goes to the locals.

“Without the local community we'd have no chance, and they've been brilliant. So many groups and families have embraced us and we are genuinely happy to have become friends with these people. So many people have asked us why we opened in Lang Lang.

We always answer ‘why wouldn't you?’ It's such a great community and it is growing quickly, we can't wait to see what the future holds for the area.

“Our role is simply to keep pumping independent local beer to the punters.”

Howler Brewing Company 47 Westernport Road Lang Lang, Victoria, VIC Hours Wed-Sun 12pm–11pm Mon-Tue Closed Images supplied by Howler Brewing Company Façade image by Gippsland Lifestyle

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Mark Hunter, second left, with team mates celebrating victory over Yarragon wearing heritage jumpers

Tigers

on the move

THE LANG LANG FOOTBALL CLUB HAS PLAYED ITS LAST GAME AT ITS FORMER SHOWGROUNDS HOME AND IS RELOCATING TO STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES AT THE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED LANG LANG COMMUNITY RECREATION PRECINCT. WORDS: CHRIS WEST

Lang Lang Football Club says goodbye to the Showgrounds | Image from @LangLangFootballClub facebook

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Mark Hunter, second from right, walking off the Lang Lang ground for the last time in an official match, will be playing at the new Lang Lang Community Sports Precinct next year

Football clubs at the local level are all about community.

In the case of Lang Lang Football Club, it has been an integral part of the town since its establishment in 1900. Almost 120 years later, community spirit is still at the forefront of the club’s existence and, significantly, the local community has also played a pivotal role in creating the next exciting new chapter in club’s history.

Just a few weeks ago on Saturday, 10th August, the mighty Tigers played their last ever game at the Lang Lang Showgrounds, which had been their base throughout the club’s entire history.

The final fixture was against Yarragon, with Lang Lang’s Reserves team enjoying a wide-margin victory against the visitors in the curtain-raiser but unfortunately the Seniors came up 28 points short.

Although it would have been nice for the Tigers to bow out with a pair of wins, in truth the occasion was not all about the result. It was a day of celebration – a chance to reflect on the past but also to look forward to the future with a sense of anticipation and excitement.

For the final game at the Showgrounds, the Lang Lang teams swapped their familiar black and yellow guernseys for purple and gold jumpers reflecting their colours from the 1940s/1950s era. These special heritage jumpers were specially produced for the occasion with the assistance of the Lang Lang Community Branch ® of the Bendigo Bank and the Palace Hotel which are both valued sponsors of the club.

The Lang Lang Football Club is incorporated with the town’s Netball Club, which will also accompany them in the departure from their Showgrounds home.

Awaiting the football and netball players are brand new facilities at the 36-hectare Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct which will become their new home base from 2020.

Located on the corner of Caldermeade Road and Soldiers Road in Lang Lang, this new sporting hub includes a pavilion, two fenced football ovals, four netball courts, cricket nets and ample parking space for hundreds of cars. All playing facilities except the cricket nets have light towers.

The Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct is the result of a partnership between Cardinia Shire Council, the Lang Lang Community Bank ® Branch and the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup-Lang Lang aimed at addressing a shortage of quality sporting facilities in the area. Funding for the multi-million dollar project was made possible through sizeable contributions from Government at Federal, State and Local level and the Lang Lang Community Bank ® Branch.

Although there are still some finishing touches to complete within the complex, the new facilities will be ready for action in 2020.

One of the players who has experienced many seasons at the Showgrounds but is looking forward to enjoying the state-of-the-art facilities at the new home ground is Mark Hunter.

New Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct Image courtesy of @LangLangFootballClub Facebook

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Mark and granddaughter Layla, summit of Cradle Mountain, Tasmania (1st Lang Lang Scouts)

Mark and granddaughter Layla hiking the Prom (1st Lang Lang Scouts)

Mark has been a playing member of the Lang Lang Football Club since crossing from Devon Meadows to join the Tigers in 2002. He was thirty two years of age then and is still pulling on the boots as he approaches fifty, not only for Lang Lang’s Reserves team in the Ellinbank & District Football League but also for Beaconsfield in the Superules football competition.

As a member of the Reserves team, Mark may not be the best player at the club but through his long-standing involvement as a scout leader at 1st Lang Lang and primary school teacher at nearby Loch, he has become an admired figure and a respected voice in the community.

Mark has visited the new Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct and is certain that the move will be an advantageous one for the club.

“The mood amongst the current playing group is very positive. I’d have to say that I haven’t come across any of my team mates who aren’t looking forward to going. Everyone’s really keen. Players in all four of our teams – Seniors, Reserves, Under 18s and Under 16s – are going to appreciate having a better ground and better facilities,” he says.

Having made his own home mid way between Nyora and Lang Lang in 1998, Mark understands the local community well.

“Like any town, Lang Lang’s got a few movers and shakers that are involved in a lot of things, but it is a strong community and a very proud one,” he comments.

“Although I went to Koo Wee Rup High School, I have been connected with Lang Lang people for most of my life and had already been a scout leader here for a couple of years before moving into the local area.”

Mark has been a scout leader for 28 years, the last 20 of which have been at Lang Lang. In his main role as a school teacher, Mark has been educating students at Loch Primary School since 2003.

“I was assigned to the Grade 5/6 class from 2004 onwards. Before joining the staff at Loch Primary, I was an integration aide at a number of different schools across the outer south eastern suburbs of Melbourne for ten years,” he says.

Being so involved in the local community, Mark appreciates how the Lang Lang Community Bank ® Branch continues to have such a positive effect and make a meaningful difference to town.

“I’ve seen enough evidence around Lang Lang to know that the bank has been an extremely important contributor to the community,” he comments.

“This extends far beyond what it has done for our football club as a sponsor and key player in the development of the new facilities at the Lang Lang Community Recreation Precinct. I know as leader of the 1st Lang Lang Scout Group that the bank has been terrific with helping us and also very active in assisting local schools and other sporting groups.”

The Lang Lang Community Bank ® Branch of the Bendigo Bank was established in 1998 at a time when the town’s outlook was bleak.

Businesses were closing and jobs were being lost.

In this year’s Australia Day honours in January, Mark was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his service to youth. His reaction was one of surprise and he believes the award was in recognition of a combination of his scouting and teaching work.

A town committee was formed to see if there was something that could be done to reverse Lang Lang’s decline and improve its prospects. A public meeting saw over 300 people turn up and started the process that ultimately led to the establishment of the Lang Lang Community Bank ® Branch.

“Like most of the other recipients I spoke to at the presentation, I could name twenty other people who I think are more deserving of this honour than me,” he says modestly.

Although the opening of the bank preceded Mark’s arrival in Lang Lang, he is aware of how its creation has led the town’s revival.

“I understand my nomination came from an elderly neighbour of mine who initially got the ball rolling, then my dad and some other people also got behind it. I believe the whole thing from start to finish was a two-year process.”

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“If you speak to some of the older locals they tell you some incredible stories of how the place was virtually down and out and how a committee of people got the town back up and running,” he says.

From the Lang Lang Football Club’s perspective, the bank continues to make an enormous contribution on and off the field.

Mark and grandsons Jet and Chad at Tyabb Airshow (1st Lang Lang Scouts)

“I know the club really appreciates the support it gets from having the bank with us all the way through thick and thin,” Mark says.

He describes the 2019 season as having been a building year for the Tigers.

“Our new President Chris Brew has been fantastic in getting things happening and new coach Josh Collie has also made a big impact this year,” he comments.

“There’s been a lot more professionalism around the club. It’s been about building towards going to the new ground in 2020 and having a plan for the next three or four years. I’m sure we’re heading in the right direction and about to go places as a club.”

Lang Lang’s Reserves team ended the home and away season in fourth place on the ladder which ensured qualification for the finals.

“The last time our Reserves team played in the finals was back in 2015 and we’ve only won one Reserves premiership in the club’s history,” Mark observes.

“But whenever our Seniors or Reserves teams make the finals, the whole town gets in behind the club and supports it. Shops decorate their windows in yellow and black and people put up signs of encouragement like ‘Go Tigers’. It’s typical of what country towns do, but it shows that it really does mean something to the community. It makes you feel very proud and you realise how special it is and how much it does mean to a town to be playing in the finals.”

Mark concludes by summing up the Lang Lang Football Club’s significance and connection to the town in one simple sentence.

“From my viewpoint, the way I’d describe it is that the club is the heart and soul of the community,” he states.

Scout photos supplied by Mark Hunter

Family decisions On what was a nostalgic day on August 10th as the Lang Lang Football Club played at its Showgrounds home for the final time, the Pallot family of Warragul made a little history of their own.

Creating surely a first in any football competition, all six members of the family officiated as umpires in the Under 16s match between Lang Lang and Yarragon.

Parents Steve and Joanne were the goal umpires, with sons Flynn and Fletcher controlling the field umpiring and Noah and Jonah the boundary umpiring.

Some of the family members had umpired with one another previously, but this was the first time that the entire clan had officiated in a game together.

It was a most unusual and noteworthy occurrence that added another element of interest and significance to the farewell fixture at the Showgrounds.

Tigers

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Muster up to Lang Lang Year after year, decade after decade, a celebration of country life takes centre stage at the Lang Lang Showgrounds for the town’s annual Agricultural Show on the third Saturday in January and Rodeo on Easter Monday.

Most clerical roles have been aided by technological advances over recent years, but Cheryl’s duties are only now starting to see some benefit from modernisation.

“We were able to accept online entries last year,” she states.

The Lang Lang Show has been a local tradition since its establishment in 1901, whilst the Rodeo has been entertaining families in the region for the past 75 years. Planning for both events is already well under way for 2020.

“Hopefully that will continue to gain more take up and result in less manual entries to process.”

“There are so many elements that go into putting on events of this kind and making them a success,” says Lang Lang Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Association Secretary, Cheryl Berry.

Whilst some agricultural shows in the region have been struggling to remain viable in recent years, Lang Lang is defying that trend and continuing to perform strongly.

Cheryl is one of the senior office holders on the Association’s Committee, a sizeable group which numbers over 30 members. She has been performing the role of Secretary since being elected to the Committee in July 2005.

“Quite a few shows are either gone now or dying out which is sad, but we’re still going well,” Cheryl comments.

“I was co-opted by the previous Secretary and had no idea what I was letting myself into,” she laughs.

“I had no previous experience on the Committee and had never even been to a Show or a Rodeo.”

Make no mistake. After 14 years of administering the organisation of both events in Lang Lang, Cheryl now knows virtually everything there is to know.

“It’s been a steep learning curve,” she says.

Cheryl carries out her work from an office at the Lang Lang Showgrounds.

In the months leading up to the Show she will be kept busy with a multitude of tasks which include taking entries, organising stall holders and getting the schedule finalised and printed. In the process she has to liaise with a vast network of stakeholders.

Up until a few years ago, Cheryl had to juggle her commitments as Secretary with the additional demands of a part-time office job. Having retired from work now, she is able to devote her time to the Show and Rodeo.

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“The fact that we own our own grounds probably has a lot to do with that.

As a not-for-profit organisation, everything we make is reinvested back into the maintenance and upkeep of the facility. We want the Showgrounds to be a real asset for the community.”

Being held on the third Saturday in January each year, the Lang Lang Show always falls within the summer school holiday period. Attendance numbers are generally around 1,000 to 1,200 people.

“Our numbers have been pretty consistent. We’ve been fortunate in last few years to have perfect weather – not too hot and no rain,” Cheryl says.

New housing development in Lang Lang is also helping to introduce the Show and Rodeo to a fresh audience.

“There are a lot of houses being built in the new estates around here. With more families coming into the town, we hope our events will attract their interest and keep bringing new faces in through the gates.”

So, what can first-time visitors expect from the Lang Lang Show?

The Lang Lang Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Association is responsible for two ever-popular, family-oriented annual events that have become an institution in the local community.

Words: Chris West “There’s certainly a lot going on right throughout the day,” Cheryl responds.

Popular attractions include the horse events in the main arena, along with the cattle, sheep, poultry and dog show competitions and the wide variety of art, craft, cooking, produce, floral and photographic activities in the covered pavilion.

“We introduced the Sheep Show this year and it got off to a great start.

I’m sure it will build on that success and be even bigger and better next year,” Cheryl says.

“Our Dog Show is one of the largest of its kind outside the Royal Melbourne Show and our Cattle Spectacular is always very popular,” she adds.

Amongst the attractions in the pavilion, Cheryl firstly makes particular mention of the vegetable stall.

“Proceeds from the vegetable stall are being directed to assist the local Lang Lang Men’s Shed, with all the produce generously donated by local market gardeners,” she notes.

Cheryl also highly recommends the pottery, woodworking and art activities provided by veteran craftsman Robert Greaves.

“Robert is a brilliant man. He grew up in Lang Lang and loves coming back to give his time to the Show. He’s always popular with kids of all ages,” she says.

For the past few years, the Port Phillip Showjumping Club has moved the showjumping competition so that it can be held separately from the Lang Lang Show on a different weekend.

“Losing the showjumping competition has not detracted from our Show at all. It’s actually created much more additional free space for car parking,” Cheryl observes.

“We still have lots of other horse events in the main arena.

One of the favourites is the Fun Ring for the kids, which is for youngsters starting out showing. It includes a number of novelty events, so is designed to be a lot of fun and nothing too serious.”

In addition to experiencing all the activities with the animals and their owners, visitors to the Show can also sample any of the food stalls around the venue. There are also amusements to enjoy and fun-filled showbags to choose from.

With so much to see and do, the Lang Lang Show represents great value for money. The current admission charges of $10 for adults and $2 for children under 15 years of age will remain unchanged for the 2020 Show which will be held on Saturday, 18th January.

The same can be said of the Lang Lang Rodeo, which provides plenty of bang for your buck with its full day program of action-packed thrills and entertainment.

“We’ve had the Rodeo here since 1944 and it’s so exciting every year. I absolutely love it,” Cheryl says.

Attendances at the Easter Monday event outnumber the Show, generally averaging around 3,000 to 4,000 people. Admission is just $25 for adults, $10 for students aged 13–18 and free for children under 13. Next year, Easter Monday will fall on 13th April.

The Lang Lang Rodeo deliberately avoids some of the “wild west” stereotypes that are traditionally associated with such events. Rodeos are often run at night and can have an image of being boozy, boisterous and noisy, but Lang Lang takes a slightly different approach without impacting on the enjoyment and atmosphere.

“Our Rodeo is held during the day and is marketed as a family event,” Cheryl emphasises.

“We encourage family groups to attend and that’s what we get – lots of couples and lots of kids,” she adds.

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The Lang Lang Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Association The Rodeo program includes several different classes and categories, culminating in the bull ride.

Other highlights include junior and ladies barrel races, steer riding, bucking broncos and the pony bareback event which provides an opportunity for local youngsters to enjoy a ride.

“Everyone also looks forward to the Dog High Jump event which we put on during the lunch break,” Cheryl states.

“It’s brilliant fun and there’s cash money up for grabs for the owners if they have a dog with the ability to leap.”

Cheryl’s responsibilities with the Rodeo in the role of Secretary are very similar to her work on the Show. She performs a long list of tasks including organising stall holders and liaising with the Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA), which takes the initial entries for the event and handles the payment of prizemoney to the riders.

One task that Cheryl leaves to the men when the Rodeo comes to town each year is putting up the portable arena on the oval.

“That is a big job and is quite a lot of work for the fellows,” she states.

“Although the arena is portable, some of our existing facilities at the Showgrounds are able to be utilised for the Rodeo such as the permanent chute and the cattle yards.”

Cheryl never ceases to be amazed by the daredevil exploits of the Rodeo riders.

“You don’t have to be mad to be a bull rider, but it helps,” she jokes.

“I watch those guys every time and think they must be crazy!”

Many of the riders are following the Rodeo circuit on a professional basis as their means of making a living.

“Our competitors are mostly Victorian, but we do get a few from New South Wales and as far away as Queensland. For some of them it’s their job,” Cheryl says.

“From the prizemoney that is put up at our Rodeo, some of the guys can walk away with a few thousand dollars. Often they arrive in Lang Lang after having ridden at the Buchan Rodeo on Easter Saturday and Omeo Rodeo on Easter Sunday. It can’t be easy for them backing up three days in a row. Sometimes they turn up here with their arms in slings and are unable to ride.”

Importantly, the health and safety aspects of the Lang Lang Rodeo are well managed.

“We’ve never had a lot of injuries and the few we’ve had have been quite minor,” Cheryl says.

“The guys that ride have to be affiliated with APRA for insurance purposes.”

Everyone who is involved with both the Lang Lang Show and Rodeo are united in their dedication to the events and their devotion to their animals.

As Cheryl reiterates, there’s far more to staging these events than meets the eye and it takes many people to ensure their success.

“We get great support from our sponsors and local businesses,” she says.

“Then there are all the volunteers who contribute in so many ways. We couldn’t do it without that support and we’re always on the lookout for more helpers.”

Although both events are still some months away, make a diary note now to muster up to Lang Lang for next year’s Show on 18th January and Rodeo on 13th April.

Photographs supplied by Lang Lang Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Association Secretary, Cheryl Berry

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Hidden Gem Strategy is the name of the game at Lang Lang Golf Club, where accuracy is more important than power.

The club’s logo carries a tagline with the Latin phrase longius et rectius, which translates to farther, and more accurately.

But in reality, the key to negotiating Lang Lang is all about staying straight.

The winding fairways are narrow and lined by trees. Wayward shots are almost guaranteed to find deep trouble in the thick bush.

The par 70 layout features only two par fives, which are generally the holes favoured towards the bigger hitters. On many holes, players can opt to leave their driver in the bag and use a 3-wood or iron in search of positional advantage rather than sheer distance.

The course features Santa Ana couch fairways that are a delight for any golfer to play on. The greens are relatively small but are always smooth and true, although putting on them can be quite tricky due to their undulations and generally firm pace. Bunkers also guard the greens to swallow up misdirected approach shots on all but two holes.

“It’s a good test of golf, but hasn’t been made so difficult that not everyone can enjoy it,” says Ralph Hendrich, the Club’s former Treasurer who recently relinquished that role to step in the vacant position of General Manager on an interim basis.

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“One great advantage we have is that the course was built on a sand base so it drains very quickly in wet weather. This means we are able to offer exceptional playing conditions all year round.”

The layout slopes away from and back to the clubhouse, which is perched at the highest part of the course. After teeing off, it does not take players long to reach the course’s flatter sections. It is not a difficult walk to negotiate, but motorised carts are available for hire if desired.

The course is maintained in optimum condition by long-standing Superintendent, Cal Gray and his staff. A collection of club members also volunteer their time to assist with general course care, clean up and presentation.

Golfers who are unfamiliar with the layout can obtain a glimpse of what to expect by viewing an aerial flyover of the course on the club website at www.langlanggolfclub.com.au which spans the full 18 holes.

Lang Lang Golf Club is a private club which allows public access. Both members and visitors are an integral part of its success.

“We presently have around three hundred and fifty members in total. There is a core group of about one hundred and fifty to two hundred members amongst our ranks who have been here for a long time. They are very loyal to the club and love playing here,” Ralph says.

The secret is out. More and more players are discovering the outstanding quality and value on offer at Lang Lang Golf Club.

Words: Chris West

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“Most of our members tend to live a little distance away, predominantly around the Cranbourne, Narre Warren, Berwick, Pakenham, Pearcedale and Langwarrin areas, along with a few more in the opposite direction around Coronet Bay, Corinella and Phillip Island,” he adds.

New members and casual visitors are always warmly welcomed at Lang Lang, wherever they may come from.

“Each year we always lose a few members for various reasons but invariably seem to replenish them along the way. As the age demographic of our membership gets older, we are always on the lookout for younger players,” Ralph says.

“We also have a lot of green fee paying visitors who get to experience the course all throughout the year, including many social groups, and the feedback we receive is consistently positive. Their comments about the course are always very favourable.”

There is certainly no shortage of reasons why potential new members shouldn’t consider joining Lang Lang Golf Club. The quality of the course alone is sufficient, but the value for money in the membership fees is close to unbeatable.

The annual 7-Day membership cost is currently just $835 plus an additional one-off levy of $100 for this year only, which will be used to help fund initiatives designed to enhance the member experience and improve the club’s back office functionality.

The annual membership payment equates to an outlay that is considerably less than playing one round per week as a green fee visitor.

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It is therefore easy to recognise how becoming a member represents such outstanding value, even for those who may have less available time to play during the week.

In addition to full 7-Day membership, Lang Lang also offers three other categories of membership at an even lower cost: 6-Day (which does not include playing rights on Saturdays), Student (18-21 years) and Junior.

There is currently no joining fee to become a member of the club.

Adding a further layer to the appeal of membership, Lang Lang also has reciprocal playing rights with more than 20 other clubs in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.

New members at Lang Lang can be assured they are joining a well established club with considerable history and tradition.

Established in 1925, the Lang Lang Golf Club operated on private properties in its early years. Initially, play was on land owned by a Mr Baker, then from 1927 to 1932 switched to the Gayes’ property on the South Gippsland Highway. Between 1932 and 1935 the Koo Wee Rup Golf Club amalgamated with Lang Lang. Play was on the McRae family property then from 1935 to 1940 on the Ridegway family property before the club ceased operating due to the Second World War. The club reformed in 1949 and golf was played on the Dixon’s property on McDonalds Track until October 1960, when the owner withdrew his land from use. Late that year, the club became aware of a parcel of land in Nyora measuring approximately 100 acres which it considered would be an ideal location as a permanent base for a course. After being granted Permissive Occupancy by the Korumburra Shire, Lang Lang Golf Club had finally found its home.

Lang Lang Golf Club The course was designed free of charge by former Australian Open golf champion George Naismith and his fellow professional and friend, Bill Walker. Naismith was allowed the honour of hitting the first golf ball off the first tee at Lang Lang at the official opening of the course on 25th May, 1963.

Fifty six years later, golfers are still enjoying what Naismith and Walker created in the peaceful bush setting.

Being located eight kilometres inland from the intersection of the South Gippsland Highway and Bass Highway, the course is well away from everything and a great place to escape. Out on the fairways, players will hear the sounds of birdlife and almost certainly have kangaroos as an audience, particularly in the mornings.

After a game, the clubhouse provides a relaxing setting to unwind with a drink from the bar or a meal or snack from the kitchen. The clubhouse is also available for bookings for private functions and events.

Golf is a sport that operates in a competitive market and Ralph is mindful that although Lang Lang has so much to offer, the club cannot afford to become complacent. One of the things he has been doing since becoming interim manager is examining every aspect of the club’s operating structure.

Using his financial expertise and data-driven mindset, Ralph has been assessing all current workings at the club to gain a clearer picture of how it presently operates and to create a blueprint for the best way forward.

He has been working diligently behind the scenes on a day-to-day basis determining what the club’s true costs and revenues are and identifying what systems, processes and skill sets it needs to maximise its potential.

“We do regard our course as one of golf’s hidden gems,” he says.

“It is important that more people keep discovering it and we need to be more proactive in spreading the message.”

Lang Lang Golf Club Golf Course Road, Nyora (access from South Gippsland Highway) Tel: 03 5659 6284 Website: www.langlanggolfclub.com.au Green fees: (Prices can be subject to change on seasons and holidays) Weekends – 18 Holes $36; 9 Holes $25 Weekdays – 18 Holes $28; 9 Holes $20 Unlimited Play after 2.30pm on any day - $18 2 players - $50 including cart, which must be returned by 5.30pm.

Course facilities include a licensed clubhouse, practice fairway and warm-up nets.

The Lang Lang Golf Club dress code requires all patrons to have a collared shirt and closed over shoes. Track pants and board shorts are not allowed. All players should look “neat and respectable” as much as possible.

Photographs courtesy of the Lang Lang Golf Club.

Ladies Day photograph taken by Doug Pell.

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The new-look Royal Drouin Hotel

A pub with no fear Words: Anita Butterworth

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There’s just something about an old country pub.

Maybe it’s the heritage façade. Perhaps it’s the stories that seem to seep through the walls. Or maybe it’s just that celebrated country spirit that resonates with every beer pulled, every tall tale told and each plate of traditional pub fare.

Don’t be fooled, while the Hotel has had a refreshing facelift over the past few months, it’s lost none of its country pub charm. It still pulses with the same time-honoured pub feel, just with a prettier face.

Brad Thomas took the reins of the well-established watering hole 18 months ago, and in that time, he’s helped continue its tradition of great food and drink, with a fresh outlook.

“I honestly think everything I’ve done was a lead up to this. The last hospitality venue I had was the Star Bar in Traralgon and then I worked at TRFM for years and years.

“I was born and bred Warragul, played footy at Drouin forever so I wouldn’t have done it if I wasn’t a local. And then when my cousin bought the building in all seriousness it was the easiest transition over. Massive learning curve though. You have no idea how hard it is.”

The Drouin Hotel has always been a focal point of the west Gippsland town.

Established in 1879, the pub had electricity before the actual town had power. But while it’s steeped in history, it’s battled against modern times.

“It’s easier now for people to grab a box of beer and go to their shed and watch the footy with the people they want so it’s getting a reason for them to come out. Food is still really good and people want to go out to eat, but public bar drinking has changed in the last 10 years. It’s just really, really hard. So, the functions are really good, we’ve got accommodation as well.

But it’s just all the rules and the prices are so expensive for people to come out all the time to have a beer.”

Brad has worked tirelessly to secure a top range for those wanting a cold one: “I signed with Lion Nathan so my beer portfolio is quite good. We have an IPA on tap, we have One Fifty Lashes, Furphy and we just have different offers as opposed to the CUB pubs.”

He’s also made sure that the pub is ingrained into the community.

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“I’m very big on putting back into the community, so we sponsor everything.

We sponsor a lot of football clubs, netball clubs, soccer clubs, hockey clubs, every school, every preschool, everyone that comes to us we try to do what we can for the community. I employ 28 local people. All our suppliers, when we can, are all local people, so it’s just pushing it all back out, to hopefully get it back in.”

“Even when we did all the works for the pub, everyone I grew up with was my painter, my carpet layer, my glazier, my arborist, every local bloke that worked on the job, I’ve known for 30 years. So it was good as well to be able to give them the work.”

As the licensee, Brad admits that he’s been lucky that his cousin, who purchased the freehold, has been willing to take risks in updating the pub.

“It is scary to put that much investment into a pub that you don’t know if it’s going to be successful or not. You’re always trying to improve no matter what you do and there are always teething problems. The community can be quite lenient in allowing you to make a couple of stuff ups here and there because they know that you’re just having a crack. But once you can iron out those deficiencies you can really move forward and propel your business to where you need it to go, to be sustainable long-term.”

And when looking at Drouin long-term, it’s hard not to mention its evergrowing connection to outer-east Melbourne.

“You look at the CBD and it hasn’t changed that much but you look at what new estates are opening up and where it’s all going we’re going to be a suburb of Melbourne to a point so we get a lot of Melbourne people, Cranbourne, Berwick, even Pakenham into the south east Melbourne suburbs that are selling up all down there, and you can still buy land relatively cheap down here.

“Drouin’s population at the moment is still 12,900, that’s set to increase by 18,000 in 14 years. So, it’s just going to be huge.”

Regardless of the encroaching tendrils of the city, at its heart, Drouin is still a country town, with country values. And the community has embraced the changes at the Royal Drouin Hotel, which aren’t just aesthetic.

“Old school pubs are really the cornerstone of the town. It’s not just a pub, everyone’s friendly here, we don’t have any dramas, the staff are really good. The fact that you reach out to the community and they come back with you it’s sort of like a partnership. Food obviously gets them in, then it’s the atmosphere, the live music.”

“It’s rustic, modern pub grub. So I’ve bought back bangers and mash, lamb shanks in winter, all the hearty pub favourites and you can accompany them with the red wines. You just try to have modern twists on pub classics. I’m not trying to be anything we’re not, we’re not a restaurant, we’re not a café, we’re a good country pub.”

Brad sees himself as the custodian of a piece of west Gippsland history, somewhere he remembers fondly from his past, that is now part of his future.

“This was my pub to have a beer after the footy games. I was drinking here illegally at 17 and to be able to be the business owner I’m pretty proud of that, I’m pretty stoked. I always said I wanted this pub and to be able to actually go out and grab it and reach it and get it, it’s a pretty good feeling.”

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The new-look Royal Drouin Hotel 2/4 Main S Road, Drouin VIC 3818 Phone (03) 5625 1620 theroyalhoteldrouin.com.au

FROM BABYCINOS TO WINE AT CITRUS & VINE A NEW PHILLIP ISLAND RESTAURANT CATERS FOR ALL, FROM YOUNG TO OLD

BY LIA SPENCER

FUNCTIONS

We are taking Bookings for Christmas Functions + Citrus and Vine can also host a range of functions including weddings, business lunches, corporate events, religious celebrations, birthday parties & more.

SPRING TRADING HOURS Mon|Tues|Wed - CLOSED private functions only Thursday from 10am until 9pm Friday from 10am until 10pm Saturday from 10am until 11pm LIVE MUSIC and Sundays from 10am until 5pm

HOURS FROM GRAND PRIX WEEKEND Mon & Tues - CLOSED private functions only Wednesday from 10am until 3pm Thursday from 10am until 9pm Friday from 10am until 10pm Saturday from 10am until 11pm LIVE MUSIC and Sundays from 10am until 5pm

BOOKINGS ARE RECOMMENDED. To learn more, visit Citrus and Vine at 2185 Phillip Island Road, Cowes or give them a call on 5909 0906.

A NEW family-friendly restaurant on Phillip Island is proving to be a huge hit with residents and visiting tourists.

Citrus and Vine is the brainchild of mother and daughter duo, Janet Tongue and Sarah Pedersen.

After spending several years holidaying on Phillip Island, the two hatched a plan to start their own restaurant. This year, their vision came true.

“Mum had a café in Bayswater ten years ago that I used to manage while I studied to be a teacher,” Sarah said. “Mum and dad eventually sold the café, and when my husband (former Melbourne Demons player Cameron Pedersen) retired, we decided to move to Cowes and jump in at the deep end.

“We love it here. We love the space and the community feel that Cowes has. We wanted our kids to grow up on this beautiful, little island.”

Sarah said that while Cowes was a great place to raise a family, there weren’t many cafes or restaurants with indoor play areas for children.

So, after purchasing a café and completing some extensive renovations with the help of her dad Simon, Citrus and Vine opened its doors in February and caters to everyone, young and old.

The restaurant is split into two rooms, separated by a gorgeous sliding barn door handcrafted by Simon. One area has a huge indoor playground suitable for all ages, the other area caters to diners without children. It features a gorgeous lounge where guests can enjoy a cuppa and cake or sip on something a bit stronger. Head waiter and cocktail extraordinaire, Filipe, makes an impressive list of drinks in Paddy’s Bar, which was named after Sarah’s grandfather.

“We wanted to cater to everyone. We cater for babies onwards, and even include baby mash on the menu. The kids’ zone is divided into three areas – a gated baby area, a big play area and a sitting area where kids can watch a movie or draw,” Sarah said.

“The other room caters to retirees or people who don’t have kids and want to enjoy another space without the noise. We also wanted people who sat in the lounge area to feel like they were relaxing in their own living room.”

Citrus and Vine are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have live music every Saturday night and have other special events during the year including Father’s Day, AFL Grand Final and Melbourne Cup.

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BRANDY CREEK ESTATE WHERE GOOD TIMES AND RELAXATION MEET

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DARSHANA PRASAD

LIKE THE FINE WINES IT PRODUCES, BRANDY CREEK ESTATE KEEPS GETTING BETTER WITH AGE AND NOW OFFERS A PREMIER DINING, HOSPITALITY AND LUXURY SPA TREATMENT EXPERIENCE. WORDS BY ANITA BUTTERWORTH & CHRIS WEST

Six years ago Darshana Prasad sat eating lunch and sipping wine at Brandy Creek Estate, a regular guest like all the other visitors dining in the popular restaurant.

It was a pleasant occasion and there was something about the rolling hills of Drouin East and vines on the property that reminded Darsh of the Mediterranean region of Europe. As he surveyed the setting, little did he know he would soon form a life-changing attachment to this place and play a leading hand in transforming what was then a modest, rustic space into one of West Gippsland’s drawcard destinations.

The lunch Darsh was enjoying at Brandy Creek in 2013 had been organised by friends who’d taken over the business. Knowing Darsh’s background in hospitality at some of Australia’s leading hotels, along with his marketing and finance expertise, they were keen to have him on board.

A wine lover who was studying to become a sommelier, Darsh had all the attributes of an ideal candidate for the role of manager and the opportunity to become involved at Brandy Creek fitted perfectly with his plans at the time. He accepted the offer from his friends, initially on a 12-month contract, and relocated his family to West Gippsland.

Fast forward six years and Brandy Creek Estate has reached soaring new heights, with Darsh as operations manager having been instrumental in the ongoing transformation of the business.

From the moment he first visited the establishment as a customer, Darsh felt that despite being busy and possessing a certain rustic charm, Brandy Creek Estate still had a lot more to offer.

“My immediate impression was that it was not maximising its full potential,” Darsh recalls.

“I saw really big potential here.”

Brandy Creek Estate’s hilltop setting on Buln Buln Road already provided it with a fabulous location, with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the Baw Baw Ranges.

But it was obvious to Darsh that some things required change or a lift in quality in order to elevate the establishment to a new level. His trained eye spotted many aspects of the venue, including the décor and fittings, which could be easily improved upon or modernised where necessary.

He created his vision for Brandy Creek and put those plans into motion with telling effect.

Scheduling the renovations was something of a juggling act between busy periods. The work would have to fit around a number of wedding bookings that had been taken, but it had to be done.

“A gap opened during a break in 2016 and we were able to complete everything within three months with the help of our builder and all the local trades,” Darsh explains.

The upgraded facilities now harmonise perfectly with the stunning natural setting. Huge floor-to-ceiling glass window panels bring in an abundance of light and help capture the amazing views.

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The Restaurant and Bar lounge has become the perfect place to enjoy a meal and accompanying wine in a relaxing environment. Depending on the weather, you can either dine with fireside comfort indoors in colder days or sit outside on the newly constructed decking when the sun is shining.

“I slowly changed the wine labels, giving everyone a story of the place and what they can match with the wine. It was all part of trying to educate everyone on what we’re doing here,” Darsh says.

A visit to the cellar door is recommended to sample Brandy Creek’s famous cool climate wines and purchase any bottles to take home.

Brandy Creek Estate also collaborates with other Gippsland-based wineries and local tourism authorities as part of an effort to attract more visitors to the region.

Food lovers should note that Brandy Creek Estate is famous for its mouth watering cuisine, with the tapas menu being a regular favourite. Once every month, the restaurant also hosts Paella Feasts that are a popular hit with diners, as are the flame-grilled Brazilian Churassco BBQs every Friday and Saturday night.

“When we started here, the place was already renowned for its tapas and paella, so I didn’t want to ruin that reputation. We’ve just built on it even further,” Darsh says.

Weddings and functions are another important component of the Brandy Creek operation. Darsh is mindful that all couples want their wedding to be their dream day, but there are still budget considerations that need to be taken into account and successfully met.

“In my experience, the trend has been that everyone wants a nice and simple, elegant wedding,” he says.

“The renovation of our whole venue was therefore undertaken with that fact in mind.”

It doesn’t matter if the wedding or function is for 10 people or a large group of 150, Brandy Creek gives every event the same degree of attention to detail and level of personalised service.

“Our staff are committed to making every guest feel important,” Darsh comments.

It is also important to Darsh that Brandy Creek Estate is providing many employment opportunities to local Gippslanders, particular the younger staff members starting their careers in the hospitality industry. He takes great personal pride in their development and wants to help train them up to be the best in the region.

As a result, Brandy Creek Estate has a very skilled and happy team in place across the business, with some staff members having also encouraged their siblings to join them whenever employment opportunities arise.

The enhancements to the restaurant and functions side of the operation have been considerable, but perhaps the real masterstroke of Brandy Creek’s transformation has been the creation of a world-class luxury day spa on the property which includes five treatment rooms and a Turkish Hammam.

Brandy Creek Day Spa offers a truly restful and restorative experience, with facilities for singles or couples. It is a place to rejuvenate in peaceful tranquility; the ultimate escape for mind and body.

“The development of the Brandy Creek Day Spa has been a wonderful addition and has given a whole new dimension to our operation,” Darsh states.

Being a keen wine enthusiast, Darsh has also turned his attention to the wine-making side of the business. He places the utmost importance on not just producing a brilliant drop, but educating visitors and grape growers about the region.

“When I accepted the job here, I was doing my sommelier course and learning about wine. I saw joining Brandy Creek Estate as a good opportunity for me to get into a more practical side rather than the textbook theoretical side,” he notes.

Darsh deepened his interest and on-the-job involvement with wines as his career at Brandy Creek progressed. He consulted with wine makers and vineyard staff, and would also visit different wine regions in his spare time or when on holidays. It’s something that he still does.

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“As a wine region, we are sandwiched between the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula,” Darsh observes.

“We would like to bring more of the Melbourne crowd to come to our region for wine tastings or to dine, which in turn will boost other businesses in the area as well.”

If you likened Darsh’s overall plan for Brandy Creek to a jigsaw, then the final piece in the puzzle would be accommodation. At present, there are no accommodation facilities on site. Visitors looking for overnight stays are instead referred to recommended accommodation providers in the local area.

“In the longer-term, we are looking at having our own accommodation available here. That would be the last part to complete the project,” Darsh reveals.

Regardless of when that final chapter in the transformation story is written, Darsh already has so much to be proud about what has been achieved in recent years at Brandy Creek Estate. He has always been up for a challenge and has used all his positive energy to create a multi-faceted, contemporary destination where good times and relaxation come together.

As word has spread and its reputation has continued to grow, Brandy Creek Estate is now often top of mind as a place for people to meet and celebrate.

“Being located between Melbourne and other parts of Gippsland, we act as a centre point for families and friends to meet and to enjoy a meal together,” Darsh says.

There may be many reasons to contemplate a visit to Brandy Creek Estate.

Perhaps you fancy sampling one of their many award-winning wines?

Maybe a delicious Spanish-flavoured meal sounds inviting? Or does a little pampering in the Day Spa sound irresistible?

Choices like these ensure there’s something for everyone at Brandy Creek and it doesn’t need to be any special occasion to make a reservation.

Treat yourself. You deserve it.

Photographs by Anita Butterworth Spa, Turkish Hammam, Treatment room, Paella Feast, Reception and aerial images courtesy of Brandy Creek Estate

BRANDY CREEK ESTATE

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TIE THE KNOT AT THE PERFECT PLACE

CITRUS & VINE IS THE PERFECT VENUE TO SAY, ‘I DO.’

BY LIA SPENCER

Getting married is one of the most exciting events of your life. It’s a day many people dream about for years.

Janet and Sarah keep the lines of communication open and are happy to have face-to-face meetings or discussions over the phone and email to ensure every detail is correct and the entire day runs smoothly.

The dress. The flowers. The location.

So, it’s not a surprise that planning a wedding can also be very stressful.

But it doesn’t have to be.

Look no further than Citrus and Vine. Situated in beautiful Cowes, Citrus and Vine’s picturesque property, stunning venue and impeccable food and drinks makes it the perfect place to say your “I-do’s”.

Owned by mother and daughter team Janet Tongue and Sarah Pedersen, the two will help make the wedding of your dreams a stress-free reality. The duo will work closely with the bride and groom to tailor-make a package suitable to any size or budget and can also provide recommendations for other wedding professionals such as a celebrant, photographer or cake-maker.

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“We work with every couple to create something that is perfect for them. We don’t have a set menu or package.

It’s not a one-size fits all,” Sarah said. “We are very happy to accommodate anything that they want – whether it be a budget wedding, dietary requirements or accommodation.

Woodbyne Resort is on-site, and though it isn’t owned by us, we would work with them to accommodate guests. It really is a one-stop-shop.”

Sarah said what sets Citrus and Vine apart from other venues is location, inclusions and size. The venue can cater for large or small weddings.

“We can have 150 people standing for a canape function or up to 80 people for a sit-down meal,” she said.

Lovebirds can also choose to have their ceremony outside in the garden or inside the newly-renovated venue. Guests can sip on cocktails or snack on tapas in Citrus and Vine’s lounge area before spilling into the larger room for the reception, where there is more than enough room for a DJ, band and – of course – dancing.

Young energetic guests have access to a large indoor playground area that is suitable for babies to 12- year-olds. The playground can also be hidden by a curtain for those couples having a child-free wedding.

Besides weddings, Citrus and Vine can host a range of functions including birthdays, anniversaries, business lunches, corporate events, religious celebrations and more. There is live music every Saturday evening. Special events are held throughout the year. Bookings are recommended.

To learn more, visit Citrus & Vine at 2185 Phillip Island Road, Cowes or give them a call on 5909 0906

Once the party is over and newlyweds get a good night sleep, they can return to the restaurant for a meal or afternoon snack as the restaurant is open five days a week for meals and drinks.

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MORWELL BOWLING CLUB

The Morwell Bowling Club is the ultimate in function dining!

We delight in meeting your every requirement, through personalised professional service, attention to detail and friendly staff.

The Morwell Bowling Club provides wedding packages or we can tailor to suit your needs.

Morwell Bowling Club caters for group bookings, and is great for children.

OPEN SEVEN DAYS - SERVING LUNCH, DINNER, COFFEE & DRINKS RESERVATIONS OR WALK-INS ARE WELCOME Visit www.morwellbowls.com.au for news and upcoming events.

NEW MEMBERS ARE WELCOME Winner of Peoples Choice Award 2014 for Excellence in customer service

Winner of CCV 'Best Bowling Club'

Finalist of CCV 'Club of the Year'

52 Hazelwood Road Morwell 3840 Ph: 03 5134 3449 Em: functions@morwellbowls.com.au www.morwellbowls.com.au

ROSEDALE BUTCHERS Local Family Owned Country Butcher

Three generations of Vaux Family owned and operated business since 1977.

In 1986 their first smokehouse was purchased and then later in 1992 a second larger smokehouse was obtained and are still used today, which allows them to produce the quality products that Rosedale Butchers have become known for.

Ray and Janet Vaux took over the business in May 1977 with their son Neville starting his apprenticeship with them and eventually he and his wife Debbie took over the business in July 1995. In turn, in 2012 their son Matthew after completing his apprenticeship in 2012 took on the job of smallgoods making and created the line of Matty’s Gourmet Sausages.

Call now for all Meat and Smallgoods Needs 32 Prince Street, Rosedale 3847 Ph 5199 2210 Like us on Facebook www.rosedalebutchers.com.au 78

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DELICIOUS MEALS & BEAUTIFUL VIEWS AT FIG AND THE BAY Words: Lia Spencer

Situated in the beautiful coastal town of Corinella is the beautiful and bustling Fig and the Bay.

Wayne said he loved being able to give residents in small Victorian towns an opportunity to enjoy an amazing meal without having to travel into the city.

The popular restaurant only opened its doors in October last year and is already a favourite to locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by fig trees and ocean views, the gorgeous restored heritage house is perfect for a special function, a Friday evening date night or breakfast or lunch throughout the week.

“I think Melbourne has one of the best café scenes in the world, constantly setting new trends in food. I enjoy bringing that style of food to people so they don’t have to travel great distances to find it,” Wayne said. “At Fig and the Bay, we like to think of ourselves very up to date on all food trends.

The menu was created by head chef Wayne Danks, who co-owns the restaurant alongside David and Natalie Sowerby of LandGipps - the developers of Heritage Bay Estate.

Wayne worked in IT and website development for several years before making a leap to the culinary world to merge his creative nature with his passion for food. He spent nearly a decade creating and dishing up delicious and eye-catching meals in popular cafes and restaurants within country Victoria including The Top Pub in Bunyip, One Fine Day in Beaconsfield and Little Miss Hangry in Garfield.

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We have golden lattes, matcha lattes, alternative milks and cater for all diets and food allergies. We constantly change our menu and specials to reflect current trends. I think the main trend we keep up with is serving food that is visually appealing while not sacrificing flavours. But we pride ourselves on putting our own take on every menu item and try to offer the customers something they won’t find anywhere else in the area.”

Not only do patrons enjoy Fig and the Bay’s food, but they can also enjoy the historic building and serene landscape.

CORINELLA CAFÉ A HOT SPOT FOR FOODIES “Corinella is a calm and relaxing place. All the locals are very friendly. We try to reflect that in the atmosphere of the café,” Wayne said.

“We are lucky enough to be operating out of a heritage homestead that was built in the 1920’s that we have restored and transformed while preserving its history, including the amazing pressed tin ceilings. Our deck looks out over the bay and a couple of beautiful Moreton Bay Fig Trees. There’s also a newly developed park next to us and walking tracks nearby so it’s a perfect place to have lunch then take a stroll.”

Fig and the Bay is also fully licensed and serves up an array of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails.

They hold special events throughout the year including Burger Nights, Seafood Feasts on Good Friday, Mother’s and Father’s Day lunches and more. They may also be introducing acoustic sessions this summer.

Fig and the Bay also hold private functions including weddings, engagements, birthdays and more.

Fig and the Bay Opening Hours are: Monday/Tuesday - Closed Wednesday & Thursday 9am-3pm | Friday 9am-9pm Saturday/Sunday 9am-4pm Bookings recommended: 5678 0337 Address: 24 Liberty Crescent, Corinella, Victoria 3984 www.facebook.com/FigandtheBay

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GIPPSLAND WINS 2018 PREMIER’S TROPHY FOR BEST WINE

Chief Judge Andrew Santarossa with Winemakers Dick Wettenhall & Marcus Satchell

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE GURDIES WINERY FOR THE AWARD FOR THEIR 2017 ORCHID LABEL CHARDONNAY The Victorian Wine Show's Premier's Trophy for the best wine in the State for 2018 was awarded to Gippsland's The Gurdies Winery by Premier Daniel Andrews at Parliament House on June 18, 2019. The 2017 Orchid Label Chardonnay was made from The Gurdies vineyard grapes and produced by Dick Wettenhall together with Dirty Three Wines' Marcus Satchell.

The Victorian Wine Show held the Awards Presentation Lunch at Mitchelton Wines Muse Restaurant on November 15, 2018. The finalists in the Premier's Trophy judging in November 2018 were the best-of-show wines awarded at the eleven regional wine shows conducted across Victoria in 2018.

The June 2019 event at Parliament House gave finalists an opportunity to showcase their award winning wines as a follow up to the Victorian Wine Show.

A perpetual trophy will be engraved and the trophy is on display at The Gurdies Winery cellar door. The award also included a painting as a gift commissioned by the Victorian Wine Show with a local artist.

The consensus view was that the overall high quality of the 2017 and 2018 vintage wines confirmed Gippsland's emergence as an important producer of cool climate style shiraz.

THE GURDIES WINERY HOSTS AUSTRALIAN WINE RESEARCH INSTITUTE SHIRAZ WORKSHOP AUGUST 2018 The workshop showcased how wine making-practices can influence wine styles.

Wine makers, representing Gippsland's main shiraz-producing regions ranging from Phillip Island to Nicholson River, reviewed 15 different wines made from the same batch of grapes.

Variations in individual wines illustrated how wine styles can be influenced by harvest dates and a range of different wine making techniques. Participants also took the opportunity to taste and analyse local products.

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Established in 1978, The Gurdies Winery is one of Gippsland’s oldest wineries The winery is located within The Gurdies, 90 kilometres from Melbourne on the way to Phillip Island.

THE WINES ARE MADE FROM ESTATE-GROWN GRAPES BY WINE MAKER, DICK WETTENHALL. The Award winning vegan wines currently offered include: Riesling, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Verdelho Chardonnay blend, Various red blends of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo & Merlot

OUR WINERY FEATURES INCLUDE: Large cellar door facility with capacity for small social functions, Spectacular views over the vineyard and Western Port Bay Extensive garden with barbeque facilities suitable for family picnics, Proximity to The Gurdies Nature Conservation Reserve, with extensive walking trails for exploring the rich variety of native fauna and flora

Gurdies Winery, ��5 St Helier Road (off Bass Highway), The Gurdies, Victoria, 3�8� Opening times: ��:�� am - 5pm: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. At other times, by appointment.

Contact: Dick Wettenhall Winery Phone: +6� 3 5��� 6��8 + ���8 ��3 ��� | Email: dick.wettenhall@gmail.com

www.thegurdieswinery.com

From Paddock-to-Plate Macca’s Farm is a food-lovers dream Words Lia Spencer

Situated on a beautiful 158 acres property on Glen Forbes Road near Grantville, Macca’s Farm boasts a beautiful strawberry field, a café with delicious fresh and tasty produce.

Owners Peter McDonnell and his partner Angelika Christensen bought the farm 14 years ago when they were looking for a change from their busy lifestyle on the Mornington Peninsula.

“I’ve always loved the rolling hills and fresh air of South Gippsland,” Peter said. “The farm is in a beautiful spot and it’s not too far from the surf.”

Since the move, Peter and Angelika have turned the property into a one-stop-destination for food-loving families.

“Our love of nourishing, wholesome food, growing clean produce and keeping our livestock stress free and true to their natural needs encompasses the true ‘paddock-toplate’ philosophy,” Angelika said. “Opening a produce store and cafe/restaurant on our farm has allowed us to realise this dream.”

“There is a huge difference in the taste from imported food and the way we do meat and produce,” Peter said. “Our free-range meat is different to most pork in supermarkets as most of that meat has come from animals who have never been out of the shed. Our meat is a lot tastier.”

The couple have free-range WessexSaddleback pigs and Angus Beef Cattle on the farm, which are raised to provide for the produce store and cafe. All cuts of meat are available for purchase, and their butcher is happy to put together a cut of any choice.

Vegetables from Macca’s Farm are also the best quality, having been grown in one of three huge hydroponic sheds.

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants or produce without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in a water solvent.

There’s something for everyone at Macca’s Farm

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It allows farmers to maintain a consistent high level of produce with minimal wastage, avoid using chemicals, and grow in a controlled environment, all year around. The plants are also free from soil-born pests, disease and weeds and maintain optimal nutrients, oxygen and water levels to the roots.

Peter said the aim was to keep their food as healthy and natural as possible. “We try to minimise our use of sprays, but when needed, we use as many natural sprays or organic certified sprays on vegetables,” he said. “We are always wary of what we are providing or serving our customers.”

The produce can be found inside Macca’s Farm Produce Store, near the ‘Pick-Your-Own Strawberry Field.’ The field has over 8000 plants, providing lots of yummy goodness for parents and children to pick between the prime months of October and April.

When families aren’t picking strawberries or buying meat and vegetables, they can sit inside the warm and friendly café and order something off the delicious menu which uses fresh-farm and locally sourced produce full of favourites, flavour and nutrients.

“All of our menu items are house made – the cakes, bread, condiments, sauce – everything is freshly prepared on premises,” Angelika said.

Not only does Macca’s Farm provide families with delicious meals and produce, but in doing so, provide young children with a lesson in food.

“It’s great to see children come to the farm and see the chooks or pick the strawberries,” Peter said. “The parents are happy to see their kids eating fresh food produce, and kids are learning about where their food comes from and how it is grown.”

“Our love of nourishing, wholesome food, growing clean produce and keeping our livestock stress free and true to their natural needs encompasses the true ‘paddock-to-plate’ philosophy,”

Macca’s Farm Spring Opening Hours are: The Produce Store & 'Pick-Your-Own' Strawberries Wed-Sun: 9am - 5pm The Cafe Wed-Sun: 9am - 3pm Bookings recommended: 0437 367 622 Address: 2185 Dalyston-Glen Forbes Rd, Glen Forbes, VIC 3990 Website: maccasfarm.com.au

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Don’t ignore Gamay!

Gamay is known in the literary world as Gamay Noir 86

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Why is pinot noir so admired and Gamay neglected?

Is it to do with fashion?

By Frank Butera

The Gamay versus pinot noir issue is especially puzzling. Why is pinot noir so fashionable, so talked about and from some regions so expensive and Gamay looked down upon? Gamay is the sole grape of Beaujolais (region of France) and close relative of pinot noir in Burgundy. Gamay is barely planted at all in Australia and only small pockets in Gippsland.

However, my research suggests that if you compare the numbers: Beaujolais which is almost all Gamay sells oceans and is popular all over the world. There is far more Gamay from Beaujolais drunk in the world than pinot noir from Burgundy, yet Burgundy is way more famous.

In new world countries like ours, winemakers are killing themselves to make a great pinot noir, but hardly anybody has thought about making a great Gamay. This despite the fact that light-bodied red wine is on the upswing – a trend that’s been a long time coming as Australia’s climate and lifestyle are far better suited to light reds than heavy.

And at this point – my disclaimer that at Bass River we have planted Gamay and will be releasing our first vintage (fingers crossed) in 2021.

My theory (we all need a theory, even if it’s wrong!) is that it can all be traced to the fact that Burgundy has world-famous grand cru vineyards, while Beaujolais doesn’t have any vineyards of comparable fame. Never mind that the grand crus are less than 1% of total Burgundy vineyards, they’re what everyone thinks of when they think of Burgundy, and what every pinot noir grower secretly dreams of emulating.

Gamay is known in the literary world as Gamay Noir. It is a very old Burgundian variety whose name first appeared in an official ban by Duke of Burgundy Philippe the Bold, who sought to excommunicate it in 1395!

He commanded that all planting of Gamay be cut down within five months of the order.

The reasoning at the time suggested that “…And this wine is of such a kind that it is very harmful to human creatures, so much so that many people from said plant of said nature is full of significant and horrible bitterness”.

Additional bans occurred in 1567, 1725 and 1731, none observed.

The reason for this outburst reflects that Gamay cropped far better than Pinot Noir. It is likely that this order relocated the Gamay Noir from Burgundy to Beaujolais.

Gamay is early budding and ripening. Although it is not vigorous, it is fertile and yields must be restricted which may depend on soil conditions and climate. Gamay is versatile and traditionally it has been made light and fruity and released within six months of harvest.

However, there is an increasing number of well-made and ambitious wines vinified using more traditional red wine styles and use of oak aging, permitting Gamay to show its purely fine and refreshing wine with elements of peppery and red fruit.

Don’t ignore Gamay, find a local bottle and experience the purity of the Gamay Noir.

Frank Butera is the winemaker at Bass River winery. frank@bassriverwinery.com

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TRUCKING AROUND GIPPSLAND TO ALL YOUR EVENTS, WE CAN CATER ANY LOCATION. We are fully self-contained and can take care of everything including attendants.

BOOK US FOR LARGE SCALE FESTIVALS - EVENTS - CORPORATE FUNCTIONS.

We also offer catering for many other occasions including birthdays, weddings and engagements.

You can find us at Markets around Gippsland and we can prepare our menu to suit your event.

Contact us today on 0447 728 547 or brent@brentsinclaircatering.com.au

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When looking for a superior culinary experience from an intimate gathering to a lavish banquet choose Brent Sinclair Catering.

Relax and have the Brent Sinclair Catering team handle all the details and tailor any menu to perfectly suit your event.

Call Brent Sinclair on 0447 728 547 146 McCartin Street, Leongatha, Vic 3953 E: brent@brentsinclaircatering.com.au www.brentsinclaircatering.com.au

D I N N E R T H U R S D AY - S A T U R D AY BOOK NOW ON

L e ve l 1 o f Th e I nv y Es p y H ot e l 1 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;B e c ke t t S tre e t , I nv e r loc h 3 9 9 6 f u n c t i on s@i nv ye s py.c o m .a u w w w. i nv ye s py.c o m .a u

| S U N D AY B R U N C H

5674 1432

LEONGATHA RSL â&#x20AC;¢

BISTRO OPEN 7 DAYS

New Members Welcome. Reciprocal rights with RSL'S in Victoria, South Australia & Tasmania

Members Discounts

Seniors Meals

Members Happy Hour

On meals and drinks 2 Function Rooms available Members Draw $800-$1000 to be won

Monday to Friday Now Available Fantastic Members Nights every Thursday and Friday

Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere Gluten Free, Kids Menu all available Reservations required for most nights of the week

NORMAL TRADING HOURS

LEONGATHA RSL CONTACTS

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

OFFICE: RECEPTION: BISTRO:

12AM - 10PM 10AM - 10PM 10AM - 10PM 10AM - 11PM 10AM - 11PM 10AM - MIDNIGHT 10AM - MIDNIGHT

5662 2012 5662 2747 5662 4487

www.leongatha-rsl.com.au Find us on Facebook

BOOK YOUR FUNCTION TODAY AT LEONGATHA RSL

Weddings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Any Special Occasion Catered for Business Breakfasts Seminars

CALL RICKY TO ORGANISE A QUOTE! Corner of Smith Street & Michael Place, Leongatha

CORNER OF SMITH STREET & MICHAEL PLACE, LEONGATHA

moo’s at meeniyan restaurant & café

SOUTH GIPPSLAND’S TOP FOOD, WINE & SERVICE BREKKIE | LUNCH | DINNER | TAPAS | COFFEE & CAKE moo’s at meeniyan | 89 whitelaw street, meeniyan vic 3956 Phone: (03) 5664 0010 | Email: eat@moosatmeeniyan.com.au | visit www.moosatmeeniyan.com.au

PHILLIP ISLAND RSL’S

LONE PINE BISTRO

IS MAKING THE HEALTHY CHOICE THE EASY CHOICE FOR PATRONS

Phillip Island RSL’s Lone Pine Bistro has recently released its winter menu incorporating the healthy choice traffic light system developed by the Healthy Eating Advisory Services (HEAS). The HEAS is delivered by experienced nutritionists and dieticians at Nutrition Australia’s Victoria Division.

This innovative concept gives diners the option to check the kilojoules for each menu item which is then colour coded according to its ingredients.

Green light indicates “best choice”; Amber indicates “choose carefully and consume in moderation” and Red indicates “limit consumption and only in small amounts”.

Head chef Neil Douglas said: “More often than not, diners are looking for healthier options on menus. We trialled the traffic light system with our seniors and kids and had an overwhelming response to continue it across all our menu items.”

“The response so far has been amazing! The majority of patrons now ask to have their selected sauce on the side with steaks; no dressing on salads and dropping chips in favour for more salad!” continued Neil.

“There are now more vegetarian and vegan options than ever before, 90% of which have been given the green light. And of course, our signature dish – grass fed Gippsland eye fillet, rib eye and porterhouse are as popular as ever!”

Visit www.pirsl.com.au/dining to check out the new menu!

The ‘Making the healthy choice the easy choice’ project is a Victorian Government funded health promotion initiative and local partnership between Bass Coast Health, South Gippsland Hospital, Gippsland Southern Health Service, Bass Coast Shire and South Gippsland Shire.

For Further Media Information Contact : Maxine Sando, Marketing & Communications Manager Phillip Island RSL Phone: 03 5952 1004 Email: msando@pirsl.com.au

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PHILLIP ISLAND RSL – A VENUE FOR ALL OF LIFE’S OCCASIONS BIRTHDAYS | CHRISTENINGS | ANNIVERSARIES | WEDDINGS | CONFERENCES | MEETINGS | WAKES

FAMILY FRIENDLY AND FULLY ACCESSIBLE | KIDS PLAY AREA OPEN DAILY MENU FEATURES HEALTHY CHOICE OPTIONS CATERS FOR VEGETARIANS, VEGANS, GLUTEN FREE | SENIORS AND KIDS MENUS AVAILABLE

OPENING HOURS PHILLIP ISLAND RSL MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM UNTIL LATE SUNDAY 10AM UNTIL LATE

LONE PINE BISTRO PHILLIP ISLAND RSL LUNCH: NOON TO 2PM DINNER: 5.30PM TO 8.30PM IDEAL FOR PRE OR POST PENGUIN DINNERS

Phone BH: 03 5952 1004 Enquiries: functions@pirsl.com.au www.pirsl.com.au

PROTECT OUR FOOD KALBAR’S PROPOSED OPEN-CUT MINERAL SANDS MINE RISKS TO HORTICULTURE INDUSTRY IN MITCHELL RIVER VALLEY Prime agricultural land for Victoria is located on the fertile soils of the Mitchell River Valley in East Gippsland. This area supplies vegetables to fresh markets, fast food outlets, cafes, restaurants, cruise ships and various businesses along the value-added product chain throughout Australia and overseas.

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This area that produces world-class food is 500m downwind from the proposed mine. Most of the vegetables are grown above ground. Water used to irrigate them, wash those that get washed and make ice used in packing for transport comes from the Mitchell River, 350m downwind from the mine.

Vegetables are grown under strict quality assurance systems. Detection of radioactivity or heavy metals above prescribed levels will result in the produce being rejected, loss of the grower’s clean green status and have financial consequences for that producer, the local economy and jobs.

ABOUT THE MINING PROPOSAL

JOBS

Of the mine’s 1,675 hectares, 1,100 hectares (11 square kilometres) is to be mined, up to 45m deep. Kalbar is proposing to mine for and partially refine zircon, titanium bearing rutile, ilmenite and rare earths minerals with radiation, arsenic and heavy metals present.

Airborne dust containing silica or titanium dioxide will be a health risk to workers in the fields.

Toxic dust, contamination and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the soils are major concerns.

There will be a 90ha tailings dam, 40m deep and 20m above ground, containing flocculants.

During heavy rains, containing run-off and siltation of the Mitchell River will be very difficult.

The future of this mining proposal will be determined soon, once the Environment Effects Statement (EES) process is finalised. ALL studies in the EES are funded by Kalbar. The horticulture industry has not been represented on the Technical Reference Group that is providing input for the EES.

SOME ECONOMIC INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HORTICULTURE INDUSTRY Valued at $150M+ annually, the horticulture industry is at risk of losing its reputation and clean green status should contamination (real or perceived) occur from toxic dust, contaminated water or soil, significantly impacting on the local economy, businesses and jobs.

Considerable additional financial benefits are delivered to the local economy down the value-added food chain from processing the horticultural produce.

Around 30 semi-trailer truckloads of fresh produce leave the area daily, increasing to around 50 semi-trailer truckloads during the summer months.

East Gippsland is home to the largest fresh bagged salad company in the southern hemisphere as well as 2 of the top 10 salad producers (by volume) in Australia.

20% of the lettuces used nationally by McDonalds outlets comes from this area.

By volume, the 3rd largest green bean and sweet corn grower in Australia is located here.

The area is home to 3 prominent organic vegetable producers.

Depending on the season, up to 2,000 people are employed in this horticulture industry. These jobs and those indirectly employed as a result of this industry are at risk if those businesses are negatively impacted by the mine.

Over 600 jobs could be created if the 3,000,000,000 litres of water needed by the mine annually was redirected to the horticulture industry; that’s 3 times more jobs than Kalbar’s proposed 197 short-term mostly contractor jobs that will only exist for the life of the mine.

For Further Information or to Organise a Tour of the Area John Hine: (0418 129 316) Debbie Carruthers: (0448 809 798)

FEEDBACK TO GOVERNMENT IS VITAL TO STOP THE MINE PROPOSAL Please Email, Write, or Telephone to Express Your Views/Concerns/Objections to: 1

Minister for Planning, Hon Richard Wynne (03) 8683 0964 richard.wynne@parliament.vic.gov.au {The Minister for Planning makes the final decision about the Environment Effects Statement}

2

Minister for Agriculture, Hon Jaclyn Symes (03) 8392 2261 jaclyn.symes@parliament.vic.gov.au Flyer dated 16 August 2019

See www.issuu.com Gippsland Lifestyle magazine Winter Issue #35 pages 54-57 for information on the people and places of the Glenaladale Region story and images by Lisa Maatsoo.

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SUNDAY + MONDAY NIGHTS

COURTESY BUS Wednesday and Friday nights

EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT

ALL DAY EVERY WEDNESDAY

MEMBERS’ DRAWS Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays

VENUE OPENING TIMES Monday-Thursday 9am -12am | Friday-Saturday 9am- 1am | Sunday 10am-11pm

RAFFLES Friday nights 30 great prizes Wednesday nights

CARVERY THURSDAY NIGHTS

FUNCTION ROOMS TAB | Café | Bistro & our Kids Club

LEGENDS THYME ON YORK | BISTRO HOURS Monday-Sunday Lunch 12pm-2pm | Dinner 5:30pm- 8:30pm

233-235 YORK ST, SALE, VIC, 3850 | PHONE: (03) 5143 2345

www.sportinglegends.com.au

GREAT COFFEE GREAT FOOD GREAT VIBES!

Great Coffee + Locally Produced Fresh Food.

Open every day from 0800.

Drop in for a cuppa and a delicious bite to eat.

Come see us at 13 Market Place, Cape Paterson, VIC 3995

"We're lucky to have Kate looking after us in Cape. Great cafe, food and service.

Great food · Cosy atmosphere · Tasting menus" Timmy Scholtes

Wine distributor - Greg Taberner Moppity Vineyards Owner - Jason Brown Tavern proprietor - Michael Turton

The first Wine Function since the re-opening of The Cape Tavern at Cape Paterson featuring Moppity Vineyards.

Jason Brown Moppity Vineyards Owner

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The Cape Tavern | Market Place Surf Beach Rd, Cape Paterson | Ph: (�3) 56�� 8��� | www.thecapetavern.com

The Cape Tavern Team: Brent, Ryan, Di, Eva, Sue, Michael, Marina & Kearny

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HOTEL HORROR THE CAPE TAVERN HAD TO UNDERGO EXTENSIVE REPAIRS AFTER THE FLASH STORM WORDS LIA SPENCER

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The Cape Tavern found new meaning to ‘watering hole’ when a freak storm wreaked havoc on the popular pub.

Licensees Sue and Michael Turton

As Michael Turton and his wife Susan drove into Cape Paterson early morning on 10 May, dark clouds were hovering above.

They arrived at Cape Tavern, the business they owned and operated for five years, shortly before catastrophe struck at 9 am.

“Before we knew it, it was hailing. The size of the hail wasn’t large, but the ferocity of it was unlike anything I had ever seen,” Michael recalled. “You normally get hail for a few minutes, but it didn’t stop for about 40 minutes and then we got 130ml of rain as well.”

Michael and Susan watched out the tavern window as the streets of Cape Paterson were transformed into what looked like a Winter Wonderland, but they never expected what was to come next.

“Everything was white, and the water was pooling up,” he said. “The tavern was at the epicentre of the storm, but we didn’t even think it had really affected us until the ceiling started to leak and we realised something wasn’t quite right as it had never leaked before. Within ten minutes, it went from a few sprung leaks to water pouring through the ceiling lights, covering the floor in about half an inch of water.”

By noon, the bulk of the storm had passed but the tavern ceiling, walls and carpet were destroyed. It rained intermittently for the remainder of the day, but the showers didn’t deter a steady stream of people who poked their heads through the tavern doors to offer their assistance.

Michael said he always knew Cape Paterson was an amazing place to live and the locals were great people, but the community spirit really shined through in the aftermath of the storm.

“Cape Paterson is a very special town.

Only a fortnight before, the community had come together to raise over $40,000 for the Good Friday Appeal during a fundraiser we held at the pub. We were still on a high from that massive effort, and then this happened and we were at an all-time low,” Michael said. “But the word began to spread through the grapevine, and everyone just wanted to help.”

Loyal locals who were unable to meet at their favourite pub for a couple of months were thrilled to see the tavern reopen on 25 July after repairs were finished.

“The opening weekend was fantastic,” Michael said. “Everyone was pretty keen to come back after having the pub closed for several weeks. They also appreciated what we did to restore the pub.”

While they count themselves lucky to have sorted their insurances and finished repairs two months after the storm, Michael said other residents and businesses still have a long road ahead of them.

“It was a headache for us, but our landlord was fantastic and the community support was great,” Michael said. “But about 200 houses were damaged, the surf lifesaving club got washed away, and the Cape Corner and Cafe was forced to close. Older people who have lived in Cape all their entire lives were affected and traumatised. It really hit the town hard and many people don’t realise that there are still people and businesses doing it tough.”

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CAPE’S HEART & SOUL THE WONTHAGGI LIFE SAVING CLUB WAS DESTROYED

BY FEROCIOUS HAIL AND RAIN Located on Cape Paterson Bay Beach, it’s where residents met to socialise, community groups hosted meetings and events, water lovers learned to swim, and lifeguards saved lives.

But the popular hub got washed away when a vicious storm wreaked havoc on the town on 10 May and the stormwater system failed to cope with the deluge, only a week away from the completion of renovations worth nearly 200 thousand dollars. Mark Scott, President of the Wonthaggi Life Saving Club, was alerted to the storm from one of the builders working at the site.

“I was an hour away from Cape Paterson when I got the call,” Mark said.

“By the time I got there, it was a winter wonderland. There were ice and floodwater everywhere. It’s indescribable. I was gobsmacked.

“The park was flooded. It’s flooded before, in 1942 the club patrol shed was washed away and in the 80’s and late nineties saw the park flooded over a meter deep but it usually overflows west towards the beach access track beside the toilet block.

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This time, the track which had silted up with sand over the years is now about 250ml higher than the back ramp, and once the park was filled with water, it had nowhere to go and flowed east and around the building and patrol tower and down the side of the building. The massive volume of water washed away the track and the concrete access ramp by the front of the building and left a dirty river and cut a rut through the sand dunes over ten metres wide and four metres deep and all the way to the low tide mark. We had over 125mm of rain about 120litres of floodwater flowing per second, past the building and it lasted for about an hour.”

The two buildings, which were over 60 years old, were left with widespread damage. Residents, members and supporters came out in droves to offer their assistance, but the council forced the club to close its doors of the patrol and rescue building almost immediately due to safety concerns as the building hovered above a massive hole left by the storm.

Mark said the catastrophe was a devastating blow for not only the members of the club, but for residents and tourists.

CRUSHED BY STORM FOR MORE THAN EIGHTY-ONE YEARS, WONTHAGGI LIFE SAVING CLUB HAS BEEN AT THE HEART AND SOUL OF CAPE PATERSON. WORDS LIA SPENCER “We are referred to as the playground of Cape Paterson. We’ve been part of the bay since 1938 and have been host to carnivals, festivals, family fun days including hosting Miss Cape Paterson competition. Now we have extensive involvement in our community. We’ve been involved in anything and everything from triathlons to school programs. Our facilities are used by multiple groups,” he said. “It’s a great little spot. We have a coffee shop run by the Auxiliary ladies and men and so many people come down just to enjoy a cuppa or eat handmade scones and vanilla slices while visiting.”

Arguably, the most important aspect of the club is that they provide a vital lifesaving service.

“It is choc-a-bloc here in peak times, especially around Easter and Christmas, so there are a lot of people in the water. We are known as a family beach. We have lots of kids on boogie boards or inflatable toys, there are divers and rock fishermen, boaties and swimmers,” Mark said. “There have been 108 lives saved at the beach in the past ten years. Ten lives were saved last year.”

Mark said that while they hope to continue their lifesaving service for the busy summer season, it is not yet known whether the club can be saved or when the rest of the services will be up and running.

“A steering committee was established which involves the club, the shire, Lifesaving Victoria, and the Emergency Services Infrastructure Authority. If we need new facilities, we will need to find the funds, redesign the building and develop it. It could take about three years. The steering committee is working to find a temporary solution in the meantime,” Mark said. “We will try to get our coffee shop and lifesaving club up and running by 1 November with the use of shipping containers and temporary site huts for storage. We will be limited, but we just want to try our best to protect our beach and the community that uses it. Whatever the outcome we will be on the beach patrolling this summer and continuing to save lives.”

Storm photographs kindly supplied

by Wonthaggi Life Saving Club

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HERE TO HELP Wayne Skate had been out for a morning walk on 10 May and arrived back to his Cape Paterson home in the nick of time.

The PBE Real Estate director said what happened next was unprecedented. “The majority of the sky above Cape was very black and the hail stones were the size of marbles,” he said. “Normally hailstorms last a minute or two, but this time it hailed for nearly an hour.”

His home was one of about 200 which was impacted by the freak storm. He put buckets on the floor to catch the water leaking through his skylights then, despite it being his day off, drove to the PBE office to see how he could help.

“On the way to the office, I saw council workers with frontend loaders trying to move the hail from the roads to make it safe,” he said. “The intersection at Surf Beach and Anchor Parade had piles of hail over 600 mm high.”

Wayne’s disbelief mirrored most of the closeknit community. “Locals were out just looking in shock and awe of the amount of hail around. Cars were skidding all over the roads.

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PBE REAL ESTATE HAVE BEEN BUSY HELPING AFFECTED RESIDENTS IN AFTERMATH OF BRUTAL STORM WORDS LIA SPENCER

People were outside to just look at the once in lifetime phenomenon. Cape looked like Mount Bulla,” Wayne said. “Once the surprise of seeing Cape blanketed in hail wore off, the reality set in.”

Wayne said all the shops along Surf Beach had some sort of damage, whether it was minor leaks or major roof collapses. Once he arrived at work, he was inundated with phone calls about damaged homes.

“PBE stepped into gear immediately and started checking vacant holiday houses for damage and notifying the owners of what we found so they could start the insurance process,” he said. “The main concern was checking on elderly residents in the community, though their neighbours were checking in on them to ensure they were safe as well. We also had a number of permanent residents and tenants to rehouse into undamaged holiday homes for emergency accommodation.”

Wayne said PBE continued to deal with the aftermath of the storm for about four weeks, but the entire town was feeling the lasting

effects. “The town has felt a bit like a ghost town deserted since the main hub, the heart of the town, has been closed from damage,” he said.

“It’s tragic to see the state of the lifesaving club, especially as they had been tirelessly raising money for improvements and renovations. The main hub of the town has been out of action including the Cape Tavern and the Cape Corner and Cafe.”

One of the surviving shops, the Salt Water Cape Café, extended their opening hours and put on theme nights to try and give residents a place to go and enjoy during the extensive clean-up.

Wayne said that while it will be a long process, he believes the town is determined to rebuild and move on.

“I believe that overtime, once all the businesses have recovered fully and are back operating 100 percent, and the lifesaving club is on a road to recovery,” he said, “the town will come back stronger.”

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Over 2000 students across the South Gippsland and Bass Coast regions have undergone intensive driver and road safety education, thanks to the annual Bass Coast Cycle Challenge.

‘Our local kids benefit, so we should all get involved’

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Road safety is an issue that touches us all and education for school age kids is critical in the fight to bring down the road toll.

In its ninth year, the Bass Coast Cycle Challenge continues to make a difference in the lives of young people in our region, donating all proceeds so our local children are armed with lifesaving knowledge needed on our often dangerous roads.

The Bass Coast Cycle Challenge – Saturday 9th November, 2019, starting and finishing in Inverloch – attracts maximum 1000 participants from all over the region and wider Victoria, whose entry fee goes toward funding in-school courses, as part of the RYDA Road Safety Education, where our local students learn knowledge and skills they will retain for life, and pass onto others too.

“The Bass Coast Cycle Challenge and Family Festival is a charity event… and we commit all funds to the education of young drivers, passengers and cyclists, making our roads a safer place for all,” said Event Director Gavin Slavin.

The RYDA program is one of the many road safety initiatives in Victoria that have contributed to the falling numbers of young people killed in road crashes over the past decade.

In 2019 the Bass Coast Cycle Challenge offers something for everyone – 40km and 53km for recreational riders, and the 85km and 121km for the more experienced riders, with the tough Mt Misery a significant attraction on these routes.

“This year we’ve seen the numbers of female entrants increase, which is fantastic, plus many, many returning entrants who love this ride for the magical scenery and the minimal traffic along the way.”

“We have the more experienced riders who enter and want the challenges which the 121km ride will bring, with its 14 climbs including the 250 metre Mt Misery.

“While at the other end of the rider spectrum we have recreational riders who have set themselves a personal goal to complete the 53km or 40km rides, which have less climbs but are equally as spectacular riding along the coastline and through the countryside.”

The event also has support from media and cycling expert, SBS Cycling Central’s Dave McKenzie who is event ambassador for the ninth year.

The BCCC’s Facebook and Twitter accounts are abuzz with chatter about the event, plus they are running some great competitions, to win a bike worth $5000, a full riders kit, free entries, and also reduced rates for accommodation at RACV Inverloch Resort.

For more information or to enter the event check out: www.basscoastcyclechallenge.com Photographs from 2018 Bass Coast Cycle Challenge

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AFTER THE SIREN

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A SEA CHANGE TO PHILLIP ISLAND, A NEW CAREER IN TEACHING AND AN INVOLVEMENT WITH A RESTAURANT VENTURE ADDS UP TO PLENTY ON THE PLATE FOR FORMER AFL FOOTBALLER CAM PEDERSEN. WORDS: CHRIS WEST

Cam Pedersen

Photographs courtesy of the Melbourne Football Club

No matter how long their time in the game lasts, all AFL players must one day consider their future beyond football.

In former North Melbourne and Melbourne footballer Cam Pedersen’s case, the planning and preparation began well before his playing days at the highest level came to an end.

“I already had studied for a Bachelor of Applied Science before I got drafted, then finished my Masters of Education while playing at Melbourne,” he explains.

“Coming into the AFL football late as rookie, I was never on big money. Even on my best contract I was not earning half of what you hear the average player’s wage is made out to be.”

Midway through his eighth season in the AFL system, Cam could see the writing on the wall.

“I pretty much knew by then I wasn’t going to get another contract into 2019. You don’t need to be told things to be able to read the play inside football clubs,” he comments.

“During the last few years I had said to myself that I needed to play a minimum of roughly twelve games per season for me to feel like I would warrant playing on and I wasn’t reaching that target.”

When the curtain came down on Cam’s AFL career at the end of 2018, he had reached a total of 80 games – the first 16 at North Melbourne where he was drafted from the Box Hill Hawks as a mature age rookie in 2011 and the remaining 64 games at Melbourne from 2013.

Fans will remember him as a versatile player capable of performing at either end of the ground or even on ball in the ruck at times. Standing 6 foot 4 inches tall, Cam was always undersized whenever asked to fill in as a makeshift ruckman, often giving away several inches in height to his opponents. He mockingly refers to himself as a “jack of all trades and master of none” but a more fitting description would be that he was a talented footballer and respected clubman who gave his all to any role asked of him during his career.

Cam made his AFL debut for North Melbourne in Round 1 of the 2011 season against the West Coast Eagles in Perth and played his last senior game in Melbourne colours in the narrow nine-point loss to Sydney at home at the MCG in Round 21 last year. Although his swansong against the Swans may not have ended on a high, he did manage to register his 70th career goal in that final match in the senior team.

True to the no-fuss style in which he played, Cam bowed out of AFL with little fanfare at the end of the season.

“I played eight years which was great but I only played eighty games. I didn’t feel like I’d done enough to deserve to stand up and do a speech about retiring,” he remarks.

With his AFL career at an end, Cam’s future plans with wife Sarah and their three young daughters centred around creating a new life for their family on Phillip Island.

“We sold our place in Bayswater and moved down to Phillip Island in October last year,” he says.

“I had often come down here for holidays, so knew this area well. It felt like a really good community and the sort of place that would be perfect for us. Luckily, we managed to get the two older girls into the last two spots in Prep and Grade 1 at Newhaven College for Term Four.”

Photographs courtesy of the Melbourne Football Club

Cam says the lifestyle change is proving to be a positive one for his family.

“It’s been fantastic. The girls love the school and we are just six hundred metres from the beach.

Having come to a small community on Phillip Island, there’s virtually no traffic in comparison to what I was accustomed to. I certainly don’t miss driving from Bayswater to Melbourne every day.”

Initially renting, Cam and Sarah are currently building a new home in Cowes.

“We’ve committed our family’s future to Phillip Island. We’re here for the long haul,” he insists.

Cam is still pulling on his footy boots, albeit at a lower level now, having resisted approaches from several other clubs in both Melbourne and the local region to sign with reigning premiers Phillip Island in the West Gippsland Football League for the 2019 season.

Maintaining a playing involvement in local football is something Cam is enjoying greatly, but it certainly doesn’t pay all the bills. A major part of the seachange, therefore, has involved the commencement of new careers for both he and Sarah.

During Cam’s days as a full-time professional footballer, Sarah had been busily establishing her own career as a teacher. Ironically, with Cam seeking to become an educator himself postfootball, Sarah was ready to head in a different direction and step away from teaching to follow a dream of establishing a restaurant with her mother Janet.

Although Sarah did not have any experience in the hospitality industry, Janet had formerly owned and operated a café/wine bar for a couple of years a decade or so back. The two ladies possess a wide range of skills and personality traits that complement each other and are well suited to the demands of operating a restaurant.

Photograph of Cam Pedersen playing for MFC courtesy of the AFL

They found the location and premises for the venture at 2185 Phillip Island Road, Cowes.

“The venue had previously been a burger/diner place. We completely gutted it and did a total refurbishment,” Cam explains.

“Sarah and Janet’s vision was to create a restaurant that caters to the fact that parents want to go out and want their kids to be entertained, but they also want to eat good food at the same time.”

Emerging from that transformation, Citrus & Vine was born and welcomed its first customers in February this year.

“It’s been going really well considering the timing of the opening meant we only caught the tail end of summer,” Cam states.

Cam Pedersen playing for Phillip Island Football Club

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“Being a holiday destination, the peak period here is going to be from around November to the end of January. We are looking forward to the Superbikes coming up in October and then the busy times to follow through summer.”

Cam outside the entrance of Newhaven College

The family-friendly restaurant has been designed to cater to everyone, being split into two separate rooms. One area features a dedicated kids’ zone, which includes a huge indoor playground and a space where youngsters can watch movies or draw.

Cam Pedersen

The other area caters to diners without children and includes a comfortably appointed lounge area which gives patrons a feeling of relaxing in their own living room at home.

At present, Citrus & Vine is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday.

During summer the restaurant will be open every day. Live music has already become an established highlight every Saturday night and adds to the feelgood vibe at the venue.

Just as the restaurant is up and running, so too is Cam’s new career as a school teacher.

“When we came down here last October, I knew I would not be able to get a full-time teaching contract until the start of 2019, so all I could find was a little bit of substitute teaching to fill in the time. I probably did eight or nine days as a substitute before the end of the school year,” he says.

Seeking to commence 2019 with his first full-time teaching engagement, Cam soon faced a choice between two local schools on Phillip Island.

“I had two interviews and was offered both jobs straight away. It came down to a decision between Newhaven College and a small Catholic school located opposite Citrus & Vine,” he reveals.

Cam opted to accept the position of Year 5 class teacher at Newhaven College, the largest educational facility on Phillip Island with over 930 students from Foundation to Year 12.

“In truth, it wasn’t an easy decision at all,” he concedes.

“At the Catholic school I would have been both the PE and Grade 5/6 teacher. That would have immediately realised my ultimate goal which is to be a PE teacher. But I had to weigh that up against the opportunity at Newhaven College, which is a bigger school with great facilities offering far more room to grow professionally.”

So far Cam is not regretting his choice one bit.

“I’m loving it. I’ve made it through my first half year and I’m still buzzing with energy. The kids haven’t scared me off yet,” he laughs.

“I have fourteen boys and twelve girls in my Year 5 class. They’re a pretty good bunch really and all have great personalities. They can be very lively and chatty, but that’s ok as you can’t expect them to work in silence.”

In addition to his role as a Year 5 teacher, Cam is also coaching several of the school’s football teams for boys and girls at different age levels.

Becoming a teacher is something Cam could never have envisaged when he was a student himself.

Cam with his daughters at local Phillip Island Football match

Citrus & Vine Restaurant Cowes Phillip Island, wife Sarah Pedersen pictured

“Deciding to take up teaching was quite an interesting step for me given I didn’t really like school when I went,” he admits.

With the benefit of hindsight, Cam has now changed his outlook.

“I think the best reflection on school is the teacher you have. It can be so influential in shaping your perception of school and whether you enjoy your time there. Friends in the playground are a part of it, but liking your teacher helps you stay in school,” he says.

Working around his full-time teaching duties and playing and training commitments with Phillip Island Football Club, Cam helps out at Citrus & Vine as much as possible.

“Sarah’s father Simon and I normally work weekends but I’ll help out whenever needed. My role can vary depending on what Sarah and Janet happen to need at the time. I could be helping organise the chefs with what dockets they’re on and ensuring meals are taken to the right tables.

I’ve waited tables myself, been behind the bar and washed dishes. I’m happy to throw my hat in the ring and do whatever I’m told. You know how the saying goes – happy wife, happy life,” he smiles.

According to Cam, adapting to the restaurant life has been along the lines of how he and Sarah expected, with a few challenges thrown in along the way.

“The most surprising aspect is just how much time it actually takes up. Sarah is working really hard in the day to day operation of the restaurant.

On some days, she can be there from 8am to beyond midnight,” he says.

In addition to the current trading days from Thursday to Sunday, preparations are also undertaken behind closed doors at Citrus & Vine every Wednesday.

“We had hoped for more family time, but we have been very fortunate to have such great support from family and friends in helping us to look after the girls,” Cam states.

As Citrus & Vine has continued to build up custom since opening in February, one source of frustration for its owners has been the inability to obtain Council approval for roadside signage or lighting.

“We’re on the main road and everyone has to drive past but we’re a little set back from the roadside. It would be beneficial for us if we could have signage or lights to promote the Citrus & Vine name to make it a bit more visual for passing traffic and help attract trade,” Cam explains.

There can also be a few challenges on occasions with staffing arrangements, given less emphasis on punctuality on Phillip Island, where locals can be inclined to operate on something referred to as “island time”.

As his family’s new life on Phillip Island continues to take shape, Cam is content to be away from the spotlight and concentrating on fresh challenges beyond AFL football. In terms of his priorities, the goalposts have moved.

“I felt a little lost for a short period after finishing football waiting until I could begin full-time teaching,” he confesses.

“I don’t think you ever really grow up when you play football at AFL level.”

Cam says the things he has missed since ending his career at the highest level have been the competitiveness, the mateship and impact AFL players are able to have on young fans.

Much of that void has now been filled by playing locally with Phillip Island under premiership coach Beau Vernon. Fresh out of AFL ranks, it is not surprising that Cam has enjoyed an outstanding season for the Bulldogs.

At the time of writing, Phillip Island was sitting on top of the West Gippsland Football League table undefeated after 17 games, with Cam having reached 50 goals for the season from a ruck/ onball role.

“I’m finding it really relaxing, with far less pressure.

It feels like a hobby instead of a job. All the stress has gone,” he comments.

Two of his former teammates at Melbourne, Max Gawn and Shannon Byrnes, have made the trip down to Phillip Island to watch him play this season.

“It was good to see them and keep in touch,” he observes.

In his first season at Phillip Island, Cam has also been impressed by coach Beau Vernon.

“Beau is an excellent coach. He’s a really strong motivator,” he says.

Several prominent coaches have been major influential figures on Cam’s football development during his career.

“In terms of influence, I would put Brendon Bolton at the top of that list. I played under Brendon for two of my five years at Box Hill,” he states.

“In my fifth year at Box Hill, he told me I need to play in the back line and it turned out I had a really good season at centre half back. Before then, I had played as a forward through all my junior football at Mooroolbark and the first four years at Box Hill.”

After elevating to AFL level, Cam received guidance from several high profile coaches including Brad Scott at North Melbourne and Paul Roos, Brendan McCartney and Simon Goodwin at Melbourne.

With his debut season on Phillip Island nearing an end, Cam can look forward to many more milestones ahead in this next chapter in his life.

“My teaching career has only just got under way and we want to continue to build on what we’ve started with Citrus & Vine,” he says.

“Our end goal with the restaurant is to start getting weddings, birthdays and bookings for other types of functions. We are on fourteen acres and have a nice garden, with room in the restaurant to seat one hundred and fifty people.

That gives us the scope to hold the type of events that will take us to the next level.”

“There’s a good atmosphere around the club and we have quite a strong playing list.”

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BOATING SINCE 1964

RACV MARINE 2019 MELBOURNE BOAT SHOW Crawford Marine exhibit highlights Displayed Campion boating lifestyle and accessories.

Terry Raymond - Proprietor Crawford Marine Morwell

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CAMPION BOATS ARE BACK IN AUSTRALIA

BOATING SINCE 1964

71-77 Chickerell Street, Morwell 3840 P: 5134 6522 E: info@crawfordmarine.com.au www.crawfordmarine.com.au

MEMBER

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Centre stage A SMALL TOWN THINKING BIG Words: Anita Butterworth

For a town of around 500 people, Newry is punching well above its weight – fighting back against drought and the trials of keeping a small community thriving. And every great little town needs a strong, beating heart, and Newry’s has just been restored, renovated and brought into the modern era.

“About six years ago a number of the committee members were involved in a formal ball, the Three Rivers Ball, we had some money left over and we wanted to use it for some upgrades and get the floor refurbished and there were cracks in all the plaster and it was just a bit tired. It needed a revolution.

The Newry Hall has proudly stood the test of time, stitched in the fabric of the farming community since 1882. But like any grand dame who’s seen thousands of community dances, funerals, meetings and productions, the time had come for a new era. The tireless efforts of a band of volunteers in attracting funding from both community members and the state government has seen the grand old girl of Newry reinvigorated for a whole new generation.

“So, we then all got onto the committee and started applying for grants, we did the floor, we got a small grant to do the supper room and we were in the process of organising a grant to upgrade the water facilities and the Bundy Hall committee said there’s this LVA (Latrobe Valley Authority) grant available, why don’t you have a look? So, we got them to come out and have a talk to us and they said we’re not all that excited about just one or two little things, we want to leave a big legacy for the community and that really challenged us to think really big,” Kate said.

Newry was settled in the 1860s, and the original hall building came along a couple of decades later.

As a Mechanic’s Institute the formative building eventually became a library, used by the school next door. The entire complex was expanded in 1913 when the current larger hall was built.

“It had been well looked after, it had been reroofed, new bathrooms. The kitchen had been built,” explained Newry Hall committee secretary and treasurer Kate Mirams. But the hall was tired, and needed a new breath of life.

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And for a small town, Newry can certainly think big. The committee was successful in securing a $224,774 Latrobe Valley Authority community facility fund grant to bring the hall into the 21st century.

New heating and cooling was installed, the kitchen upgraded to commercial standard, the stage has been refreshed and a state-of-the-art acoustic system put in place.

The green room is now a cosy corner for actors and entertainers to prepare, the supper room is sparkling and the former library has been transformed into a board room.

Outside there are two new car parks, and modifications that allow for wheelchair access.

And pride of place on the exterior is a new Mechanics Institute sign that nods to the original.

Despite extensive work inside and out, the Newry Hall has stayed true to its historic roots.

“We’ve tried to make it the most comfortable building, honouring the tradition and the heritage, but modernised. So, it’s comfortable and functional - especially the technology that brings it up to what people would expect of the functionality of a venue but it’s still the atmosphere and look of a beautiful old building,” explained Kate.

But it wasn’t just the funds from the LVA that helped spruce up the town’s hall. The community was asked to reach into its own pocket to match the funding, and roll up their sleeves to chip in some of the work. And despite having such a small population to draw on, the committee was floored by the generosity of the town.

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NEWRY HALL (UPPER MAFFRA MECHANICS INSTITUE) EST 1882

“We had to provide $35,000 worth of matching funding.

We went to the local community and asked if they’d like to make a donation and within a short period of time people donated $15,000 of their own money. It was overwhelming to get that support,” said Kate.

Newry facade before

Newry facade after

Newry kitchen before

Newry kitchen after

Newry library before

Newry library after

Newry main hall before

Newry main hall after

Newry supper before

Newry supper after

“It was actually the most important thing to make it happen. When you know the community is that behind you, you just think, let’s do it!”

Once the money was secured the committee raced against time to get the refurbishment completed within just 12 months. “We had one year to spend the money and complete the project and that’s a massive ask to get a committee to do that in one year.”

In June, the committee proudly reopened the newlook Newry Hall. The volunteers unveiling a plaque commemorating the work, crafted from an old piano that used to sit in the building. It’s testament to the ingenuity and respect for history demonstrated by the dedicated group.

The Newry Hall has once again become the focal point of the proud community.

Before and after and wedding photographs supplied by the Newry Hall committee Photographs by Anita Butterworth

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Set in Jindivick’s rolling green hills discover an acre of recycled metal sculptures and browse the gallery space hosting the work of contemporary artists and Laurie’s small stories sculptures.

Call in anytime, no cost and see the studio (amongst the metal chaos!)

RED TREE GALLERY EXHIBITIONS Coming up at the Red Tree Gallery Jindivick over the next three months are a range of shows and activities.

WINTER EXHIBITIONS 2019 Marg Dumergue

Peter Dumergue

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

An exhibition of paintings

by Russian artist LILIA VAN GELT

PETER AND MARG DUMERGUE (now Phillip Island residents) have an exhibition of paintings and digital art

One of the top photography teams RUSSELL AND CAROL MONSON – with an exhibition of photography and textiles

For more info visit www.redtreegallery.com.au

-

Thanks Laurie Good on ya

420 Main Jindivick Road, Jindivick VIC 3818 P: 5628 5224 | E: info@lauriecollins.com.au

www.lauriecollins.com.au

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WINTERREISE Lucy Chapman with one of her paintings, No. 15 The Crow

IF EVER THERE WAS A BODY OF WORK THAT PERFECTLY MANIFESTS THE BEAUTY THAT CAN COME FROM PAIN, IT’S WILHELM MÜLLER’S BROODING POETRY. SOMBER AND DARK, IT’S THE DESPAIR OF A JILTED LOVER IN THE DEPTHS OF WINTER, WHICH IS LIFTED OFF THE PAGE AND INTO MUSIC BY FRANZ SCHUBERT'S SONG CYCLE WINTERREISE (WINTER JOURNEY).

This exquisite pairing has been reimagined by Drouin couple Lucy and Brian Chapman, who combined their artistic passions for a moving exhibition in Yinnar.

‘Winter Journey’ graced gallery space arc Yinnar in June, where the holy trinity of painting, music and poetry intertwined for a unique exhibition. It was a project more than a decade in the offing.

“If you asked me how long this project has been in the making, I suppose I’d have to go back thirteen years or so when Brian was making his first Winterreise recording with the soprano Louisa Hunter-Bradley, and they were looking for a suitable image to use for the CD cover,” Lucy explained ahead of the official opening of the exhibition.

“In the end, they chose an image by the Icelandic photographer, Helga Kvam, depicting the Crow (inspired by Poem No.15), but their search showed that, even back then, painters such as the famous mid-20thcentury soprano Lotte Lehmann had been inspired to produce 24 images based on the 24 Winterreise poems.

“Today there is a website that displays the work of no fewer than twentyseven visual artists, including my own and ranging through a variety of styles. On becoming aware of these earlier artists, I thought that I’d like to work on such a project.”

While studying for her Diploma of Visual Arts at Yallourn TAFE, Lucy purchased 24 canvases measuring 61 centimetres square, in the hopes she’d one day use them with another Winterreise recording that Brian was planning in the future.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t get very far at that time because I hadn’t settled on a style or approach that would take in the 24 poems. But I did manage to spoil two of the canvases before abandoning the project. So, a few more years went by and it wasn’t until I was in the final year of my Visual and Media Arts Degree at Monash University’s Gippsland campus, before it became FedUni, that I did an elective on Nature Surrealism under the supervision of Storm Gold and realised that I had found an approach that would be ideally suited to the Winter Journey project, allowing different images to be juxtaposed in unlikely, or even impossible, combinations in ways that could express the content of the various poems.

“The one recurring theme in these paintings is of that of the lonely wanderer, the outsider, the rejected protagonist of this work, a jilted lover who appears as a surreal shadow in six of the paintings. In the last painting, this shadow is now a prison holding an image of the hurdy-gurdy man, a pathetic figure with no audience apart from a couple of howling dogs, no money in his plate, frozen in futility while the rest of the world moves on.”

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‘WINTER JOURNEY’

WORDS: ANITA BUTTERWORTH

As part of her final semester assessment, Lucy had to write a project grant.

“It was a natural thing for me to dream up a project that would take up the theme that Brian and I used nine years ago for my ‘Poetry in Tone’ exhibition in this gallery, complemented by a piano recital that included many of the impressionistic pieces inspiring some of my paintings.”

Lucy Chapman introducing her works at the opening

“So, this is how the idea of this ‘Winter Journey’ project was born. Only two things were lacking at that time in early 2016 as we decided to pursue the theme. Firstly, these 61 centimetre square canvases were no longer manufactured, so I was at least two canvases short of the minimum I needed. Secondly, Brian hadn’t yet found a singer to work with him on Winterreise.”

Eventually Lucy was able to secure the canvases she needed through the Longwarry Men’s Shed, and she started drafting her ideas in a visual diary for what she describes as ‘a long period’.

“For each picture, this involved making a list of things from each respective poem for possible inclusion, cutting and pasting corresponding photographic images and/or my own sketches into a collage, then transposing these collages onto the canvas, often making many changes in the process.”

“I also studied the writings and works of other artists available on the internet.

As for the actual creation of these paintings, I began putting paint on canvas around October 2017, commencing with No.1, then continuing on and off in random order, but finishing with No.24 last September. Allowing for a long break over the heat of summer and other distractions, I think the actual painting took roughly nine months for the 24 works.”

Nathan Lay

And while Lucy was working on her interpretations of the poems into artwork, her husband Brian, an accomplished pianist, decided to dedicate himself to the task of faithfully translating the German poems into English. “I took about as long to do the translations as Lucy took to do the paintings,” Brian explained.

“I wasn’t operating entirely in the dark; I do understand what the German words mean and there is already a very fine English translation in blank verse which is widely used. In fact, in my earlier recording of Winterreise in German we used that blank verse translation by Celia Sgroi in the CD liner notes.”

“But most of all I had to produce a singable version that would rhyme in the same pattern as the German poems and that would also fit Schubert’s music. And that’s quite a different thing. It’s one thing to set poems to music, it’s another thing to create poems that will fit into the music. They’ve got to rhyme, they’ve got to fit the music and they’ve got to translate faithfully the general idea of each poem as well as its specific imagery.”

Brian penned an English translation because he wanted to produce an experience of Schubert’s masterpiece that would be accessible to more than just the usual niche Winterreise audience.

“I have recorded and performed Winterreise before in German and I didn’t even think about an English translation until Lucy’s project came up.

Knowing that we’d be presenting to a general audience a song recital of poems which inspired the paintings, we realised that it would have to be done in English.”

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WINTERREISE ‘WINTER JOURNEY’ A SOLO EXHIBITION OF 24 ORIGINAL PAINTINGS BY LUCY CHAPMAN INSPIRED BY THE 24 POEMS OF SCHUBERT’S WINTERREISE AND FRANZ SCHUBERT’S GREATEST SONG CYCLE FEATURING NATHAN LAY, BARITONE, SUNG IN A NEW ENGLISH TRANSLATION WITH BRIAN CHAPMAN, PIANO, PERFORMING WORKS

BY SCHUBERT AND SCHUMANN PERFORMED ON A STEINWAY GRAND PIANO

Brian & Lucy Chapman

1.

GOOD NIGHT

2.

THE WEATHERVANE

3.

FROZEN TEARS

4.

NUMBNESS

5.

THE LINDEN TREE

6.

FLOOD WATER

7.

ON THE RIVER

8.

A LOOK BACKWARD

9.

WILL O’ THE WISP

10. REST

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11. DREAM OF SPRING

12. SOLITUDE

LUCY CHAPMAN | BRIAN CHAPMAN | NATHAN LAY The final piece of the artistic puzzle was locating a singer who could perfectly execute the couple’s vision. And Brian had his sights on Morwellborn baritone Nathan Lay.

Nathan Lay and Brian Chapman performing

“We knew we had to communicate these songs, they have to be communicated in English, we’ve got to have someone who can be understood in English. Now that’s a particular gift. You’ve got to have someone who’s got a wonderful voice, who’s got a musical mind, who’ll be applied to the task. And in Nathan’s case he was really the singer of choice, because of his absolutely crystal-clear diction. He’s just fantastic, you can understand every word that he’s singing, and that’s really important. And that was a thrill for me when he agreed to do this, which included making the recordings for the CDs.” Brian and Nathan worked for the first three months of this year rehearsing the pieces before recording the two CDs – one in the new English translation and one in the original German – in time for release at the exhibition. The two CDs are packaged into a beautifully presented 56-page hard-cover booklet that contains images of all 24 of Lucy’s ‘Winter Journey’ paintings as well as the English and German poems and general annotations and artists’ biographies. The result is published on the Move Records label (www.move.com.au) and is accessible from retail outlets as well as digital download from iTunes.

Brian Chapman, daughter Donna & Lucy Chapman

Beginning with an almost month-long exhibition at Yinnar in June, there followed a two-week private exhibition in Melbourne and a four-week public exhibition in the Long Gallery at Montsalvat in August. It’s the culmination of a dream for Lucy and Brian, in the form of their largest joint-project to date, and the chance to bring to a wider audience a moving and inspirational interpretation of the world’s most famous song cycle – Winterreise – a composition which some regard as Schubert’s finest achievement.

Photographs Anita Butterworth & Doug Pell

13. THE POST

14. THE OLD MAN

15. THE CROW

16. LAST HOPE

17. IN THE VILLAGE

18. THE STORMY MORNING

19. ILLUSION

20. THE SIGN POST

21. THE INN

22. COURAGE

23. THE FALSE SUNS

24. THE HURDY-GURDY MAN

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WHAT’S ON

GIPPSLAND ART GALLERY SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

Wellington Centre | 70 Foster Street SALE VIC 3850 Open Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.30pm, Sat-Sun and Public Holidays 10.00am - 4.00pm T (03) 5142 3500 E galleryenquiries@wellington.vic.gov.au W www.gippslandartgallery.com

THE ART OF ANNEMIEKE MEIN JULY 27 TO JANUARY 19

A permanent, evolving showcase of works from Australia’s favourite textile wildlife artist.

Annemieke MEIN Whirlpool Frog 1994 Textile 105 x 170cm Photograph by Michael Page and digitised by Geoff Parrington Private collection

STORIES FROM THE COLLECTION NOW SHOWING

BOOK LAUNCH

Stories from the Collection delves into the deep, multi-layered history of the Gippsland Art Gallery’s permanent collection in a new, ever-evolving journey through the ages. Spanning the colonial to the contemporary, this expansive and illuminating exhibition presents a vivid account of the influence of place on the cultural imagination.

SATURDAY 07 SEPTEMBER, 2.00PM SPIRITS IN THE BUSH: THE ART OF GIPPSLAND Gippsland Art Gallery has partnered with Australian Scholarly Publishing to present Spirits in the Bush, the first comprehensive history of art in Gippsland. Written by Simon Gregg.

Available now, this lavish book is a must for all art lovers! RRP $69.95.

WONDERLAND – CRYSTAL STUBBS

Spirits in the Bush The Art of Gippsland Book Cover

JULY 13 TO OCTOBER 7

Wonderland is a chance for children and adults alike to escape from reality and join Alice on her trip through the imagination. Gippsland-based glass artist Crystal Stubbs has created a magical and immersive exhibition that evokes smiles and joy in the viewers and showcases her immense talent with glass.

Rodney FORBES & Owen RYE Painted ceramic 46 x 36 x 36cm Collection Gippsland Art Gallery Artworks Gallery Collection Donated by Norman & Petah Creighton, 2018

The works in this exhibition, both whimsical and surreal, are also familiar to the viewer. Curious and interesting, this exhibition allows both the young and young at heart to experience a daydream and fall into a familiar and well-loved story.

Forgotten Character – the Fish Footman 2019 Hot sculpted blown glass, oil on board, and LED lighting Courtesy the artist

FIRST FRIDAYS

FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER, 2.00PM

WITH CRYSTAL STUBBS

Meet local glass artist Crystal Stubbs and learn about her art and techniques.

Free event. No bookings required.

All welcome.

‘GRAND COUNTRY’ FRED WILLIAMS IN GIPPSLAND AUGUST 10 TO NOVEMBER 3

One of the twentieth century’s most revered and innovative artists, Fred Williams (1927-82) is an icon of Australian art. ‘Grand Country’ focuses on three trips to Gippsland made by Williams in the years between 1968 and 1979. These trips, to Wilson’s Promontory, Walkerville, and the waterfalls at Toorongo and Agnes Rivers, provided Williams with the material to extend his work, and put Gippsland on the cultural map. Drawn from a range of public and private collections, this exhibition will reveal Gippsland as Fred Williams saw it - a rich palette of colours, dynamic forms, and intense beauty.

Fred WILLIAMS (1927-82) | Rock Face at Agnes Falls I 1979 Oil on canvas 152.4 x 137.8cm Collection National Gallery of Australia Purchased, 1989

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WHISPERING LANDSCAPES MEG VINEY-BELL & ZETTA KANTA OCTOBER 19 TO JANUARY 26

“I imagine trees whispering amongst themselves and I keep wondering: ‘What do they talk about?’” asks Zetta Kanta.

In this illuminating joint exhibition Gippsland artists Meg Viney-Bell and Zetta Kanta explore the mysteries of the natural world through a range of ideas including the consciousness of nature and its relationship with humankind.

Meg VINEY-BELL Tree Spirit 1 & 2 2019 Forest branches, handmade paper (banana leaf and ginger), handmade felt printed with gum leaves, pheasant feathers. 150 x 200cm Courtesy the artist

FIRST FRIDAYS

FRIDAY 1 NOVEMBER, 2.00PM

WITH MEG VINEY-BELL & ZETTA KANTA

Zetta KANTA High Country Sunrise 2017 Wool, silk, black diamond bamboo 175 x 380cm Courtesy the artist

Meet the artists and learn about their art and techniques. Free event. No bookings required.

All welcome.

WILD THINGS – HAYDEN JACKSON OCTOBER 19 TO DECEMBER 1

Wild Things is the debut exhibition from young Gippsland artist Hayden Jackson, whose electric paintings are an explosion of colour, rhythm, and movement. Contrasting cool pastel hues with ‘violent and dominating colours’, Jackson describes his abstract paintings as ‘an emotional response’ to his surroundings.

Hayden JACKSON Untitled 2019 Acrylic and oil on canvas 50.7 x 40cm Courtesy the artist and Piermarq Gallery, Sydney

MEET THE MAKER: MORNING TEA WITH NICK MOUNT SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER, 10.30AM

Join us for an exclusive tour with master hot glass artist Nick Mount followed by morning tea. Free event.

All welcome.

Nick Mount in the Glass Studio, JamFactory, Adelaide.

Photographer: Pippy Mount

HOT GLASS – NICK MOUNT NOVEMBER 16 TO FEBRUARY 2

Nick Mount is one of the world’s leading glass artists. Born in Adelaide, Mount lived and worked in Gippsland from 1972 to 1984, during which time he established Victoria’s first hot glass studio, Budgeree Glass. A leading figure in Gippsland’s ‘Craft Revolution’ of the 1970s, he remains an inspirational figure within the region.

Exclusive to Gippsland Art Gallery, Hot Glass marks Mount’s return to a region he once called home. Showcasing works from the last decade, including many never before seen in Australia, this is an unmissable opportunity to experience the extraordinary art of Nick Mount.

Nick MOUNT Scent Bottle #070709 2009 Blown glass 101 x 130 x 26cm Courtesy the artist | Photographer: Grant Hancock

FIRST FRIDAYS WITH KLARA JONES FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER, 2.00PM

Meet local artist Klara Jones and learn about her art and techniques. Free event. No bookings required.

All welcome.

Klara JONES Allerieirauh 2018 [detail] Silicone, rigid foam, human hair, rabbit and calf skin 40 x 90 x 170cm Collection Gippsland Art Gallery Donated by the artist, 2019

ERASURE – LOUISA WATERS

DECEMBER 7 TO FEBRUARY 2

Briagolong-based Louisa Waters explores the intersection of history and landscape in Erasure. In a powerful tapestry of social and cultural history, Waters examines ideas of trace, ruin, archive, ecology, and empire, with a focus on narratives of fire. Drawing on a range of materials including drawing, photography, print, and film, this timely exhibition reframes traditional depictions of fire through scientific, historical, and political concerns.

Louisa WATERS | Ruins #1 2019 Charcoal and pastel on paper 59.4 x 84.1cm Courtesy the artist

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BOOK RELEASE 'A Plan Unravelled'

by Lia Spencer $24.99 Ruby was only a child when she wrote out an ambitious plan: Move to New York Get an Acting Gig Make money She achieved it all by the age of 18. Fast forward fifteen years and Ruby's hit rock bottom. She’s broke, unemployed, and in the tabloids for all the wrong reasons. Her reputation is in tatters and her career is on the line. Ruby’s publicist, Michelle, has a damage-control plan. She insists that Ruby move back to her lifeless, rural hometown in Australia to live with her dysfunctional family until the scathing headlines disappear and the scandal blows over. Despite her initial reluctance, Ruby quickly embraces the break from the bustling, cab-ridden concrete jungle. She indulges in carbs, spends quality time with her family, and reunites with her high school sweetheart.

But when Ruby strikes up a romance with the mysterious guy next door, she is confronted with dirty secrets, hard truths, and is forced to make a choice between a familiar past or an unchartered future.

And if Ruby's learned anything from her mistake, it's that one bad decision could instantly derail any well-thought-out plan.

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AUTHOR BIO Lia Spencer is a Canadian-born journalist who now works and lives in country Victoria. Having spent more than a decade working in print media, Lia now juggles creative writing, freelance reporting and mum duties from the comfort of her own home in Bunyip. You can see samples of her work or read her personal blog at liaspencer.com.

'A Plan Unravelled' is Lia Spencer’s debut novel.

Elements of the book were fuelled by Lia’s childhood dream of a life of becoming a famous actress, though she was hopeless at acting.

The setting, based both in New York City and rural Australia, was inspired by Lia’s upbringing in a small town and her love of New York City after honeymooning there in 2013. However, the book is purely fictional and written for anyone who wants to escape from reality and dive into a blissful story about a woman swapping a life of fame and fortune in bustling NYC for a much quieter one in her quiet, mundane Australian hometown. It’s been described as a heartwarming read to enjoy with a glass of red during the winter, and the perfect beach book to dive into during the Summer.

'A PLAN UNRAVELLED' IS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE FROM Elephant House Group-Trunk Online Store, Booktopia, Barnes and Noble, Angus and Robertson and Amazon

IT IS ALSO AVAILABLE AT ALL GOOD BOOKSTORES INCLUDING Need2Read in Warragul, Impodimo Living and Giving in Garfield and Variety Bookroom in Moe.

Abstract landscape

Outback Series

ABSTRACTLY WILL WILLIAM HOLT William Holt has a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Monash University and has a broad range of experience in Painting, Sculpture, Installation Art and Photography. Over the last 15 years William has had major solo exhibitions and many group shows in Melbourne and Sydney.

“Experience the distinctive style of acrylic painting that hovers between the energetic abstract plane and the visual tension of the natural world.”

Collectors

“I’ve always believed in the authentic aura of a painting.

Art is more than an image… it is a presence!

It has to have a physical side.

That “body’ of the art work is a large part of its interaction with the viewer!

I try to leave an immediacy in the process and maintain my initial inspiration for all to see!”

For William the process and act of painting is a spontaneous and all consuming instinct where sheer joy of art in the moment is sought in order to reach a “decisive” conclusion when composition and content combine.

www.williamholtart.com Commissions

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home

is where the art is John Mutsaers is a significant artist, sculptor, writer & creative thinker.

He and his wife Mary share a fascinating house and gallery in Inverloch.

Words: Wendy Hall

The blustery South Coast winds and a sky bleached dull by clouds are no match for the little explosion of light, colour and joy that spills from the home of John and Mary Mutsaers.

He built a straw bale house entirely by himself.

He is a determined thinker and this was another ‘creation’, to be sculpted by his own hands and his inventive mind.

John is a distinguished artist of world renown and his wife of more than 50 years, Mary, is his manager, partner in art, critic and friend. They are a formidable team across the cultural and artistic network that exists in this beautiful part of Gippsland and their home expresses all that they are.

One enters John and Mary’s home via a glass atrium; even on a grey day, light pours quietly down, its winter white a natural spotlight on an array of paintings and pot plants that welcome you into their home. A beautiful mirrored mosaic greedily swallows and multiplies this light. The atrium connects the old building which was on the site with what John has built.

A few steps beyond is John’s studio.

John and Mary moved to Inverloch in 2013.

They had previously lived and worked just north of Moe on the Walhalla Road where they had established their home and the very successful Kylor Art Gallery over a number of years. In 2009 John’s studio burnt down (ironically, just after the Black Saturday bushfires) and John lost more than a hundred paintings. It was devastating.

The house is built almost entirely of recycled materials and there is a warmth and beauty added to this home by this very fact. John speaks about timbers, doors and windows like old friends; there is always an anecdote, a history and this really breathes life into what might otherwise be just a building.

They were drawn to the Bass Coast by the stunning beauty of the natural environs and by an awareness of the growing community of artists, writers and musicians that was similarly finding it a home for their creativity. They decided they would move and build.

“That glass door is bulletproof” laughs John, “Well at least that’s what the bloke who sold it to me said!” There is a wicked giggle as we consider how necessary bulletproof glass is in Inverloch but such is the life that seeps from the story of this home.

John’s natural passion for ideas and his flourishing imagination would for a time shift from canvas and oils to straw and timber.

Entering John’s studio you are struck by the immediate aroma of the artist’s space. Oil and canvas. It is modest in size but filled with richness.

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A work in progress sits on his easel and above it a worn piece of paper reads, “If colour is my music, then the brush is my instrument”.

Everywhere you look there are signposts of John’s life. Stunning paintings lean casually against the walls. A pair of antique, wooden Dutch ice skates, a reminder of his heritage, dangle beside a large laptop screen. An aged, plump, leather armchair, much loved, nestles in the corner. Here he muses, reads, writes and watches the footy!

Inside, a similar patina. The living room is rich with suggestions of the lives of John and Mary.

Art, of course. It is hard not to ignore everything else. His work is captivating. Collected memorabilia, loved pieces, furniture speaking of history and time and occasional nods to the modern world meld into the eclectic mix that produces a room you just want to be in.

All this ensconced in walls crafted by the owner himself, from straw, chicken wire and render.

Wandering outside into the garden is again a reflection of this partnership. Plants thrive (“that’s Mary”) among all kinds of manifestations of the couple's imaginations, artistry and finelyhoned wit.

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John & Mary Mutsaers

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From an exquisite trio of garden sculptures to his quirky “disappearing sink”! John and Mary burst into laughter as he reveals this yet to be patented gem of alfresco living.

With his typical self-deprecating humour, he notes that it is functionally brilliant except for the fact that it has no taps! There are nooks and crannies, works in progress (“I must finish that one day”) and everywhere, what appear to be almost accidental fusions of nature and art, that capture your eye.

Nothing is necessarily straight about the external structure of this house, by engineering standards, but they are true and perfect keepers of the lives of this couple.

John was born Johannes Mutsaers in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, in 1942 and came to Melbourne with his family as a 14-year-old boy. He has been a professional artist for more than 30 years and has so far held 38 solo exhibitions both here in Australia and overseas. Notably he has successfully exhibited in Shanghai in 2008 and London 2009.

Among John’s favourite subjects are still life and portraiture and he is proud to have been selected as a semi-finalist in the prestigious Doug Moran $150,000 National Portrait Prize on two recent occasions. His works hang in the homes of many well-known collectors including the late Princess Margaret and astronaut Charles Duke (who famously left his family photograph on the moon!) His works hang on the walls of numerous private and public regional galleries and significant organisations here and around the world.

However, those that rest here seem most perfectly at home.

John and Mary are proactive advocates much of their time is connections between benefit of all.

both passionate and for human rights and given to promoting the art and culture for the

John has contributed to innumerable humanitarian and community-based art projects. He has applied his MA in the psychology of art therapy to working with disengaged youth in the region, namely through the Arts Billabong Project which he ran for 10 years in collaboration with two other art therapists.

Both Mary and John are members of the Bass Coast/South Gippsland Reconciliation Group, which runs the annual NAIDOC Week Indigenous Art Exhibition. Mary, with John’s assistance, has coordinated the exhibition for the past five years.

John is part of the Wonthaggi ArtSpace leadership team. Their most recent success has been the inaugural Archies Bald Portrait Prize. He was instrumental in the redesign and development of the Moe City commercial district, incorporating mosaics produced by local youth.

In 2015 he led a community project, which created a permanent sculpture at Callignee to commemorate the lives of those lost in the Black Saturday fires. He and Mary are both members of SWAG (Stormy Waters Asylumseekers Goodwill) media group, another cause close to their hearts.

He is a member of the Bass Coast Shire Arts and Culture Advisory Board and Chair of the Wonthaggi Sculpture Town committee.

Writers will be invited to contemplate the metaphors depicted in the paintings and use them as a catalyst for their written response.

And so much more.

An innovative and exciting idea coming to life.

Much of this involvement grows from John’s philosophical stance.

Visiting John and Mary is like finding a box of crayons under the bed that you didn’t even know was there and opening them to find new and old colours, fragrances of the past and the present, memories of what you drew with them and imaginings of what you might. You could scribble or write something poignant, you could share them with others or they could launch recollections. The box has been there a while but there is still lots of colouring left to be done.

“My main hobby is thinking,” he says. He is currently working on a series of paintings entitled “The Infinite Birdcage” which are at face-value extraordinary and captivating but speak to the theme of freedom and what it means to have or not have it, to value or not value it, to give or to take it. There is metaphor at work in this series and in many of his paintings, but understanding his references fully does not exclude you from just relishing these remarkable works and letting them speak to you however you choose.

John Mutsaers is a funny man and his sense of the playful is evident in the words he attaches to his art. The series of paintings destroyed in the 2009 fire was entitled “My Life as an Avocado”!

He created a largely metal sculpture called “Wolfgang Amadeus Mazda”. He is writing a book with the curious title of “The Thinking Man’s Manual for Effective Dishwashing”!

On the Princes Highway near Trafalgar you have no doubt passed his sculpture, “Forksn-Spuds”, a response to the UN call to end world hunger. These sculptures were originally launched and exhibited in Federation Square, Melbourne in 2008. Listening to him unravel these unusual choices is fascinating.

Expecting the unexpected now the enigmatic painting of a woman with a bird’s nest on her head (one of the Infinite Birdcage series) will surely carry some cryptic title. No. It is called “Lady with a bird’s nest on her head”!

Future editions of Gippsland Lifestyle Magazine will feature John’s art and more details of the forthcoming exhibition. There is much to read about John and his work at www.johnmutsaers.com It’s well worth taking the time.

In February/March 2020, John will exhibit “The Infinite Birdcage” at the Wonthaggi Artspace Gallery. This will be something not to miss, as it will be a unique collaborative exhibition fusing art, music and writing. Renowned composer, Mark Finsterer is currently writing music to reflect how he interprets each of the works in the series. As part of the exhibition a threesided stage-like installation, including a writer’s desk and chair, will feature three of the major exhibition works.

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Australian Horticultural Judges’ Association Inc. Gippsland Branch

FOR ALL GARDEN ENTHUSIASTS OUT THERE, HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED ENTERING SOME EXHIBITS IN AN AGRICULTURAL OR HORTICULTURAL FLOWER SHOW? NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED, JUST A PASSION FOR GROWING GOOD BLOOMS. WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS BY LINDA HARVEY Fran Grylls & Arie Bos

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A PERFECT EXHIBIT WOULD INCLUDE FORM Defined by its true shape & characteristics.

{

CONDITION Freshness, at its perfect stage.

COLOUR Unaffected by fading or dullness.

SIZE Fully developed true to its potential.

SUBSTANCE AND TEXTURE Thickness and firmness applicable to its petals or flesh of a vegetable.

A horticultural judge adheres to certain standards, in accordance with the Australian Horticultural Judges’ Association. Whilst judging they have a responsibility to the society which they have been asked to judge, to the exhibitors who have placed specimens on the show bench and to the public who come to view the displays.

To become a fully qualified horticultural judge, training is undertaken over a two-year period ending with a written and practical exam, all conducted by the AHJA. Re-appraisal is taken every three years.

Qualified judges are always learning and educating themselves especially as new plant varieties are introduced into the commercial market.

It was the late Nola Harland who instigated forming a horticultural judging group in Gippsland. Nola organised trainings conducted at Leongatha where 35 participants were trained, successfully completing the course in 1983.

Arie Bos, Rodney Emmerson and Joy Johnson are the only three members from this original group that remain active with this organisation today.

Rodney Emmerson, at the age of 80, still takes an active role in Gippsland region with being the secretary for the past 36 years and continues to judge at shows throughout Gippsland. Rodney’s interest and love of daffodils has made his skill and knowledge available to the district as an exhibitor and judge, winning acclaim at local and Melbourne shows over many years.

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In the Gippsland Region there are now 29 qualified judges who meet regularly to discuss topics and allocate judging assignments. Members travel as far as Orbost, Welshpool, Bunyip, Wonthaggi, Drouin and everywhere in between to judge at shows including Agricultural, Horticultural and Specialty Shows.

Margaret Monk lives at Poowong East and at the age of 92 is one of the oldest members of the group, has been a qualified judge for more than 30 years.

Margaret says she has enjoyed her many years judging including the social part.

“I have met so many wonderful people through attending shows,” she said.

Margaret has particularly enjoyed judging at Jindivick and Bunyip Flower shows.

Margaret also is an avid exhibitor, winning many awards for her beautiful blooms.

Judges cannot judge at shows where they have exhibited their own entries.

Current president of the Gippsland Region of the Judges’ Association is Arie Bos. Arie lives at Welshpool where he has been cultivating his “Farm” garden for more than sixty years. “I completed my judge's course at Leongatha in 1983. I wasn't sure about it, whether I'd been showing long enough, but glad I did,” Arie said. “I was attracted to the floral art section, as I've always been a flower grower and been impressed by seeing what some people can create using flowers and foliage, I have since become a Floral Art judge too,” he said.

Arie Bos, Rodney Emmerson and Joy Johnson

Arie was a member of Heritage Roses Gippsland Group for many years and roses have always been his first love with over 130 varieties of roses growing in his garden. “Gardening, Judging and Horticultural have taught me a lot, you never stop learning about gardening and flowers, do you,” Arie said.

The Australian Horticultural Judges’ Association holds a friendship weekend Bi-Annually, where judges from all parts of Australia meet for a fun and social time. In October this year it is Gippsland Region’s turn to host this event and the group is looking forward to hosting guests from all parts of Australia.

Margaret Monk

We will showcase Gippsland to our Interstate, Northern Victoria and inner suburbia visitors with a visit to Moss Vale Park, private gardens in the local area, local winery, nurseries, native flower show and finishing with a day at the Gippsland Garden & Home Expo at Lardner Park.

Let’s face it; if it weren’t for the exhibitors entering blooms, there would be no such shows. Please consider entering some blooms. You may be pleasantly surprised, delighted and thrilled when you have a win.

FORTHCOMING SHOWS IN GIPPSLAND AREA Leongatha Daffodil & Floral Show 30th August -1st September. Memorial Hall, Leongatha.

Native Flower Show 12th & 13th October. Leongatha Recreation Reserve Club Rooms.

Orbost 100th Annual Flower Show 25th & 26th October. St Andrews Uniting Church, Orbost.

Bunyip Anglican Church Show 25th October. Anglican Church Hall Bunyip.

Leongatha Rose Spectacular 8th & 9th November. Memorial Hall Leongatha.

Welshpool & District Horticultural Society Flower Show 1st & 2nd November. Memorial Hall Welshpool.

Yarram Agriculture Show 23rd November. Yarram Recreational Reserve.

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JOURNEY along the ESPLANADE at lakes WORDS: JOHN MUNNS

Much has been written about Lakes Entrance, usually because it is the only entrance to the Gippsland Lakes the largest navigable inland waterway in Australia, but there is so much more to this township. One simple attraction catering for all ages can be used by walkers, runners, with prams/pushers, mobility scooters, "wheelie walkers" and even yes, bikes (with care) is arguably the longest, unbroken, all accessible, most varied waterside pathway in Australia.

By my calculations, to be confirmed by a pedometer, Fitbit, or long tape! our walk commences just east of Koonwarra Holiday Park, and is unbroken and almost flat a tad over 3 km to the roundabout at the highway bridge, if you include the pathway over the highway bridge and along to Kalimna Jetty (which is unsealed) this unbroken path covers over 5 kms. Divert over the footbridge to the Ninety Mile Beach, the total distance is almost 6 kms, and the closest point where the Princes Highway comes to the ocean between Sydney and Melbourne, another piece of trivia.

Is it the best in Victoria even Australia? Locals say yes, of course, its diversity and interest is wide-ranging along the entire route so let’s explore its origins and journey from the east, westward.

Lakes Entrance is its third name, John Reeves explored the lakes in 1843, settlers arrived and cattle runs established soon after, a few holiday houses were constructed, the locality becoming known as Campbell Town. First negotiated by ship in 1858, soon vessels were regularly entering the lakes and a township, Cunninghame after a pioneer Gippsland squatter, was surveyed near Lake Bunga in 1866. A post office ‘Cunninghame’ was opened in 1870 changing its name to Lakes Entrance in 1915.

The local Kurnai Dreamtime legend explains the lakes: “a frog swallowed all of the world's water. The other animals tried to make the frog surrender the water by making it laugh. All deliberate attempts at humour failed but the sight of the eel standing upright on its tail caused the frog to laugh, the water was disgorged and the subsequent flood is said to have created the lakes”.

For walkers, joggers, runners this is a great ready-made track, for the rest of us ‘normal people’, what does it offer? We start our journey near the calm upper reaches of Cunninghame Arm, (locally ‘the front lake’) laden with swans, pelicans and other bird-life, until you approach the precincts of the town and bridge. The winding walk provides serenity watching the water birds and the waters lapping the sandy shoreline.

Bellevue Guest House – State Library of Victoria

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Is it the best in Victoria even Australia?

Locals say yes, of course, its diversity and interest is wide-ranging along the entire route, the longest, unbroken, all accessible, most varied waterside pathway in Australia Fishing Fleet

Peaceful, relaxing, even therapeutic as few water craft use this area but, as you approach the "footbridge" the scene changes, a more touristy aspect of the town. The famous paddle boats on the ocean side provide a splash of colour in summer season, many parents and grandparents reliving their childhood memories taking their kids for a trip. A Bocce court with the distinctive clicking of the balls lies adjacent to the road close to the Rotunda itself housing waterside events and a monthly market.

Divert across the bridge to the ocean beaches, or simply stand and admire the view. Take time out looking down the lake in either direction, sunrise to sunset the view ever-changing. The current bridge was built in 2009, replacing the old wooden/steel construction which was beyond repair and outdated, a small remnant of that bridge can be seen adjacent to the new structure. Application was made to Government for assistance on 22 January 1934 “to enable residents and tourists to gain easy access to the ocean beach”, little changes it seems.

Continue, opposite the varied shops, the range of fishing boats changes almost daily, wharves providing moorings and a maintenance base. If you time it right, watch catches being unloaded, preparations for the next

voyage, even buy off the boat. View the commercial oil/gas supply vessels being loaded or unloaded. The hub of the town, known as ‘Harbecks Wharf’, opposite Carpenter Street, is still a hive of activity but the old Harbeck’s Store opposite is long gone.

The old Slipway and sheds appear where the fleet was maintained and repaired, no longer used and destined for development, hopefully in keeping with the town’s historical past. The first iconic wood carvings along this pathway, a fitting tribute to our fallen and those who served and still serve in the name of freedom, democracy, free speech, our country and way of life. Carved by John Brady from the old Cyprus Pines which stood for many years, these carvings extend to the RSL. Now the Coastguard Base, "Pinky B" moored ready for action, the volunteer crew provides great service to mariners. The new boardwalk from here to Bank Jetty, provides yet another aspect of our journey, clean, bright and open it is indeed an asset for the town. Continue almost to Cunninghame Quay, a permanent and itinerant mooring for vessels large and small, wander its full length and enjoy a relaxing seat at the end overlooking the waters of the "front lake".

Harbecks Store – State Library of Victoria

Esplanade Lakes Entrance – State Library of Victoria

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New Pavement at Western Harbour

Old Slipway Sheds Towards Post Office Jetty New Boardwalk

The Mariner Wood Carving

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Waterside Pathway East End

LAKES ENTRANCE

LE Old Footbridge 1990's

gippsland lakes

Opposite, the Central Hotel well named, formally (1882) the Fern Bank Hotel, a five room accommodation house, built for Catherine Gray, later licensed to Captain William Charles Williams. A fire totally destroyed the hotel in October 1886; rebuilt by February 1887 Captain Williams transferred the Fern Bank Hotel’s licence back to Catherine Gray. 19th December 1889, saw an application to change the Fern Bank Hotel’s name to Central Hotel granted to the then licensee Thomas Sommerville.

Continuing our journey and especially in the warmer months, private craft, some a history in themselves, are moored extending to Post Office Jetty.

From Cunninghame Quay and Post Office Jetty boat tours can be taken around the lakes, to Metung, Paynesville and the Winery (accessed from North Arm), when the wildlife of the lakes can be seen, often including dolphins and seals.

The scenery changes once more, passing floating restaurants, one built atop of the old ‘Paynesville Ferry’ floats, more opportunities here for refreshment on both sides of the road, on the land side the Bellevue Motel, maintaining its name from older and now long gone original structure.

The Western Harbour houses more of the fishing fleet, colourful nets can be seen drying or being repaired along the dock, boats are moored stern on, often with crews preparing for their next voyage. Further west, more private moorings, a huge range of vessels old and new just waiting to be taken for a trip.

Wander past the shallow section of the front lake, a sandy beach especially at low tide where swans are often seen feeding from weed on the lake bed, and a spit area which leads to a view of the Fishing Co-op wharf, or stay on the pathway and you will pass palm trees and come to the Visitor Centre on the right. A choice here, either cross Bullock Island Road and follow the path over the bridge then down along the shores of North Arm to Kalimna Jetty along the gravel pathway at the water’s edge adding another 2 kms each way to the journey.

LEFCOL Fish Shop

Alternatively follow Bullock Island Road and visit the Lakes Entrance Fishing Co-op. If you time it right you can watch the catch of the day being unloaded from the various vessels fishing local waters or just pop in the shop and buy local fish for your dinner. A great way to conclude our journey.

Perhaps the longest and most diverse water-side walk in Victoria even Australia. Relaxing yet gentle exercise for all, stop for a coffee and cake, have lunch, make it a full day, in any event, it is great to explore the diversity of our own environment. Well catered for parking, all accessible, with numerous coffee/food outlets, I have tried them all! And of course when that need arises...plenty of strategically located loos too!

Is this the longest, unbroken, all accessible, most diverse, well serviced waterside pathway in Australia?

Can anyone disprove it?

New Boardwalk Bank Jetty SOURCES Trove - The Argus Our Little Town - Elsie Johnstone Victorian Places.com Aussie Towns.com Historical Images / State Library of Victoria ‘The Rose Collection’ Photography / John Munns

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Derrick and sign at original site of well

First Oil Bore 1924 Copyright State Library Victoria

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST OIL FIELD DISCOVERED AT LAKES ENTRANCE Lakes Entrance is famous for a number of geomorphological sites, the 90 Mile Beach, the Gippsland Lakes themselves, the manmade Entrance to and fro, and its original counterpart at Lake Bunga to mention a few, much less known is that Australia's first oil field was discovered near Lakes Entrance in 1924.

WORDS: JOHN MUNNS

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The Oil Wells 1941 Copyright State Library Victoria View from Myer Street similar location to 1941

Take a short trip down Old Lake Bunga Road and at the bottom of the hill you will find the original well (now capped), a small derrick with appropriate information signage. The road is unsealed but in good order, although after heavy rain it can become a tad bumpy. Strange that a find of this significance to our economy is almost itself insignificant by comparison, had it not been for the local Rotary Club with the assistance of Lakes Oil NT Pty. Ltd., the site and what remains would not have survived.

A thriving oil and gas industry aids economic growth and Victoria benefits from offshore oil and gas supplies produced from the Gippsland and Otway basins. Two thirds of Australia's all-time oil production and one third of its gas emanates from the Gippsland Basin with estimated reserves (2012) at 400 million barrels of liquids and 5 trillion cubic feet of gas.

Today 23 offshore platforms and installations operate in Bass Strait, including the Marlin B platform and Kipper subsea wells feeding a network of 600km of underwater pipelines, part of an Esso/BHP joint venture since the Barracouta gas field was discovered in 1965. Since then and until 2014, a total of 26,089 petajoules* (PJ) of liquids and 9,120 PJ of gas has come from the Gippsland Basin. *1 petajoule = 277.78 million kWh or approximately 23,884.59 tonnes of oil equivalent.

How and why did exploration commence, how deep was oil actually discovered, what remains of that significant part of local and Australian history? To quote from Journal of Australasian Mining History, Vol. 8, September 2010 by Jim Enver entitled Mining for Oil in Victoria: The Lakes Entrance Oil Shaft: “The period leading up to the Second World War brought into focus once again Australia’s vulnerable situation regarding access to oil and petroleum products.

This vulnerability had been realised at the time of the First World War, stimulating oil exploration activity in East Gippsland, after earlier interest had been aroused by the occurrence of what were thought to be oil slicks on the surface of stagnant water.1 The level of activity escalated from 1920 following announcement by the Commonwealth Government of a reward of GBP 50,000 for discovery of a commercial oil field.

In 1924, the Lake Bunga No1 well located five kilometres East of Lakes Entrance struck traces of oil in an artesian water flow from a glauconite sand horizon at a depth of 326 metres, the first substantiated discovery of liquid ‘well oil’ in Australia.”

Later continuing; “From 1942, a novel attempt was made to recover oil from a sand horizon at 360 m depth near Lakes Entrance in Eastern Victoria.

The Lakes Entrance Oil Field was the only then known source of liquid ‘well oil’ in Australia.

Pressed by the need for an indigenous supply of petroleum during war-time, the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments sank a shaft through the soft, water bearing strata, and drilled a number of short horizontal holes into the sand to test the oil flow. The Governments terminated their direct involvement in 1945. Handed back to private enterprise, the project was continued until 1951. By this time, it was clear that commercial production would never be achieved.”

Oil produced from these works was a heavy asphaltic base grade, suitable for producing fuel oil and lubricants, but deficient in lighter fractions. Oil recovered was dehydrated and used to lubricate the wheels of Melbourne trams, as well as a local source of fuel oil. Geologically speaking, the Gippsland Basin is a CretaceousNeogene hydrocarbon area home to Australia’s largest oil and gas fields. The majority of the massive field in the southern and eastern areas are still underexplored and therefore commercially untapped, parts of the remainder being in commercial production since the late 1960’s.

Today the relics of these works remain in Lakes Entrance and may be viewed from the top of Myer Street hill on the east side where three concrete tanks and some significant concrete foundations are clearly evident in the valley.

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AUSTRALIA’S FIRST OIL FIELD DISCOVERED AT LAKES ENTRANCE

Remaining Foundations from 1941

Apparently one of the major factors in obtaining the quality crude oil was to successfully separate it from the sea water, the tank (or tanks) were, I am told, part of the separation process which was not particularly successful.

Continued exploration, mostly in Western Australia in 80’s and 90’s, has uncovered significant finds in the Timor Sea and the Cooper basin, none of these are as large or as fruitful as the discoveries in the Gippsland Basin in the 1960’s.

This site is listed with Heritage Victoria as follows: “Statement of Significance last updated on November 17, 2002. The Lakes Entrance Oil Shaft was a pioneering example of using horizontal drilling within thin reservoir sands to maximise oil production. During WWII the Federal and State governments took it over to look for oil to make Australia more oil self-sufficient. It was the only oil shaft in Australia and deserves to be protected. It is also the most complete and best sampled Neogene onshore section in southern Australia.”

Lakes Entrance also boasts the oldest Australian oil and gas explorer still operating in the country.

Lakes Oil NT, which is Melbourne based, drew increased interest from the famed Gina Rinehart owned companies. The Sydney Morning Herald (Peter Ker) reported on November 23, 2013, “Gina Rinehart raises Lakes Oil Stake“ continuing, “Mining billionaire Gina Rinehart has consolidated her status as the biggest shareholder in a small Victorian oil and gas company, just 24 hours after Victoria extended a ban on the sort of unconventional oil and gas it plans to extract.

The transaction delivers to Mrs Rinehart a 19.53 per cent stake in the small company.”

The 1960’s saw massive change in this country’s oil and gas industry and one of the largest success stories was offshore in the Gippsland Basin, considered more significant than fields such as Scott Reef, North Rankin and Goodwyn off the NW Australian coast and operated by Woodside Petroleum, or Petrel and Tern by Arco and Aquitaine and Gorgon by WAPET.

Lakes Oil NT maintains the few links between the struggles to find and produce Australia’s first indigenous oil reserves early in 1900’s and it’s almost 100% self-sufficiency in petroleum production and related products during the early 1990’s. The company still has a pioneering mentality, willing to tackle projects the larger conglomerates chose to avoid.

It was Lakes Oil who engaged to produce oil from shallow glauconite sands in Lakes Entrance with wells drilled from the base of a specially dug mine shaft.

So Lakes Entrance can add oil exploration to its list of unique facts and points of interest. Next time you drive up Myer Street, take a glance down into the valley and you will see the remaining structures of an embryonic oil industry, or take a short trip down Old Lake Bunga Road and visit the original oil bore site, there are picnic tables there but take some “mozzie“ repellent!

SOURCES Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Victoria, Australia www.Earth Resources.vic.gov.au © State Government of Victoria 2015 Media release Lakes Oil NT website Heritage Council Victoria Australian Government. Dept. of Innovation Industry and Science website Sydney Morning Herald website State Library Victoria Image “The Oil Wells, Lakes Entrance & Original Oil Well” Trove All other Images - John Munns

Remaining Oil Separation Tanks

Base of Derrick and capped Well

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Signage at Original Bore site

EVANS PETROLEUM

and it’s customers WESTSIDE

7 Anderson Street, Leongatha, Vic 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2834

BP Service Stations FISH CREEK 2 Falls Road, Fish Creek, Vic 3959 Tel/Fax: 5683 2521 Email: fishcreek@evanspetroleum.com.au

FOSTER 94 Main Street, Foster, Vic 3960 Tel/Fax: 5682 2008 Email: foster@evanspetroleum.com.au

INVERLOCH 25 Williams Street, Inverloch, Vic 3996 Tel/Fax: 5674 1442 Email: inverloch@evanspetroleum.com.au

JOHNSONVILLE 1760 Princes Highway, Johnsonville, Vic 3902 Office/Fax: 5156 4102 Workshop: 5156 4233 Email: johnsonville@evanspetroleum.com.au

KORUMBURRA 2-8 Commercial Street, Korumburra, Vic 3950 Tel/Fax: 5655 1668 Email: korumburra@evanspetroleum.com.au

LEONGATHA 95 Bair Street, Leongatha, Vic 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2440 Email: leongatha@evanspetroleum.com.au

MIRBOO NORTH 106 Ridgway, Mirboo North, Vic 3871 Tel/Fax: 5668 2377 Email: mirboo@evanspetroleum.com.au

MUDDY CREEK 26 Foster Road, Toora, Vic 3962 Tel/Fax: 5686 2324 Email: toora@evanspetroleum.com.au

NEWMERELLA 5327 Princes Highway, Newmerella, Vic 3886 Tel/Fax: 5154 1601 Email: newmerella@evanspetroleum.com.au

SALE 344 Raglan Street, Sale, Vic 3850 Tel: 5143 1030 Fax: 5143 2686 Email: sale@evanspetroleum.com.au

TRARALGON

LEONGATHA

95 Bair Street, Leongatha, Vic 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2440

23-29 Shakespeare Street, Traralgon, Vic 3844 Tel: 5174 1138 Email: Tim@evanspetroleum.com.au

WESTSIDE 7 Anderson Street, Leongatha, Vic 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2834 Email: westside@evanspetroleum.com.au

WONTHAGGI 103-105 McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 3988 Fax: 5672 5229 Email: wonthaggi@evanspetroleum.com.au

YARRAM 325 Commercial Street, Yarram, Vic 3971 Tel: 5182 6019 Fax: 5182 6458 Email: yarram@evanspetroleum.com.au

EVANS PETROLEUM HEAD OFFICE 22 Hughes Street, Leongatha Vic 3953 Tel: 5662 2217 Web: www.evanspetroleum.com.au

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A LIFETIME OF SALES

THE REMARKABLE CAREER OF VETERAN SOUTH GIPPSLAND LIVESTOCK AND REAL ESTATE SELLING AGENT PETER DWYER NOW SPANS SEVEN DECADES. HIS ENDURING STORY IS A GENUINE NOD TO ANOTHER ERA. WORDS BY WENDY HALL Peter Dwyer is not Peter Dwyer, he is Clifford Leslie Dwyer born at Foster on the 19th of May 1930 – a little less than six months before Phar Lap won the Melbourne Cup and brought some much-needed cheer to a nation still engulfed in the effects of the Great Depression.

Peter is not a lot of other things that one might expect an 89-year-old man to be either. He is not retired. He is nowhere near his use-by date. He is not fusty or out-of-touch, not faded or struggling for relevance in the 21st century.

So what, then, is he? Peter Dwyer is a bona fide gentleman and a gentle man. He is authentic and unpresuming but, equally, sharp, articulate and ‘current’. He is also a man who would definitely be uncomfortable digesting accolades about himself, but they are true.

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I meet Peter on a cold, damp day at his home in Inverloch. The grey day is in sharp contrast to the warm home and even warmer reception he extends.

He is immaculately dressed, sporting a neat tie which I suspect is not a shallow gesture on behalf of my visit but rather how Peter Dwyer always presents himself to the current world of jeans and sneakers.

In his ninetieth year, Peter is still working full time. “I even worked Saturday morning this week,” he quips, with absolutely no suggestion that this is anything exceptional. He recalls that just before the passing of his beloved wife Shirley in 2002 she had said, “I want you to keep working. It will help you.” She was so right. And he did. Peter has now been a part of livestock and real estate management and sales for nigh on 70 years.

That is something!! Shirley would be proud.

So how did this remarkable career and life unfold?

Peter’s parents, John and Marjory Dwyer were share farmers during the “worst depression in history”. They gained employment managing “Shetland Heights” and “Anderson’s Paddock” in the San Remo area, running sheep. Peter’s mother sadly passed away from meningitis at the age of just 31 years.

Despite various relatives offering to take care of Peter and his brothers Kevin and John, all just young boys, his father decided to keep the family together. During this time John employed a number of housekeepers to help him with his boys. One of these, Miss Florence Clohesy (who had previously worked at the infamous Tally Ho Boys’ Home), eventually became his wife and the boys’ new stepmother. Peter speaks warmly of her care for them.

Peter spent time in Port Welshpool as a lad, with his Aunt and Uncle but was unhappy and homesick and soon returned home to Shetland Heights at a time when war was raging across the globe and times were tough. The boys trapped rabbits and sold them around town to help the family survive.

Both Peter and his brother spent time at De La Salle College in Malvern during this period, but their restlessness was ingrained and eventually they both returned to the land.

PETER DWYER

The fat lambs from Shetland were onsold through Dennys Lascelles at Newmarket and through a connection, Peter’s father was able to gain him employment, feeling that his son would be well suited to work in the livestock industry (knowing however, that if a soldier needed the job on his return, it would be forfeited –“that was fair”) Peter recalls he was earning less than £2 ($4) and board was 5s ($1.50)! And so it began.

But, again, Peter returned home. Another chance meeting on the property saw Peter offered work in Leongatha, at the sale yards and his previous experience with Dennys Lascelles served him well here. He was now earning £2 10s per week ($5) and paying 35s board. My how he was moving up in the world!

With an early pay packet he deemed it time to upgrade his undergarments and went to the drapers to purchase one singlet and one pair of underpants.

Mr Vern Pease (yes, he remembers his name) the store manager said, “take six of each young man and pay me when you can”. Mr Pease was paid out within the month. Peter smiles and notes that this sentiment stuck with him: “it is so rewarding to do the right thing in life”. It is a lesson to which he has borne testament. That’s Peter to a tee.

Peter Dwyer at Koonwarra saleyards (4th from right)

Leongatha was a thriving centre in this post-war period and Peter remembers a happy and full life.

At the close of 1949 a position in livestock sales became available in Maffra and Peter, again, moved on and grew with his love of land and livestock.

This work led to meeting the Livestock Manager at Gippsland and Northern and when Peter said that he wanted to return to South Gippsland he was offered Yarram. So Yarram it was, and another stepping stone in Peter’s journey stood before him.

And so important it was, for it was here that he courted and won the heart of the beautiful Shirley Margaret James, so popular and sought after that Peter fully expected to be politely declined when he asked her out.

However, he thought he “might have a chance” and did, indeed, get a date with her to go to the Saturday night dance! They were married in 1956 and raised four children: Terrence, Peter (Tony), Susan and Mark. To this day, he carries in his wallet, a photo of her standing on the old San Remo bridge.

Listening to him speak of her, now 17 years gone, it was a special love.

Koonwarra saleyards opening day 4 January 1982 (2nd from right)

In 1954 Peter became second auctioneer and was eventually promoted to senior auctioneer at the Leongatha branch of Gippsland and Northern, a position he held until his retirement. Peter bought and sold cattle for various parties and spent much time on the road between destinations while Shirley ‘kept the home fires burning’.

Peter was appointed Livestock Manager, responsible for the organisation of saleyards at Leongatha, Meeniyan, Fish Creek, Tarwin Lower and Mirboo North.

He speaks of his love of auctioneering adding that if you “were not nervous before an auction you weren’t ready”. He loved the adrenalin and the speed of the saleyard auctions and notes that this is something he misses in the land sales world although he still enjoys it immensely.

Peter Dwyer (2nd from right) at Koonwarra saleyards opening day 4 January 1982

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Opening of Koonwarra Saleyards 4 January 1982

A LIFETIME OF SALES PETER DWYER Peter was instrumental in development of the Koonwarra Saleyards which opened on the 4th of January 1982 moving from the old site at Leongatha (which is now the site of the town’s McDonalds store – still vending beef I guess!)

In 1986 Gippsland and Northern opened the Peter Dwyer Administration Building named in his honour for his outstanding contribution to the company. He eventually “retired” on the 19th of June 1995. But retirement was never to be. In November he returned to the company, which had by then been sold to Dalgetys, as a land salesman. As one door closed, another opened.

August 1973 Ron Fletcher Gippsland & Northern Branch Manager who was promoted to the Melbourne Office shaking hands with Peter Dwyer (right) who became the new branch manager for Gippsland & Northern Leongatha

In 2009, prominent real estate agency Alex Scott & Staff invited Peter to join their Leongatha office to service rural land sales, no doubt recognising the enormous reach of his local knowledge and connections with families and the land. Peter still works there today.

So that is the bones of the Peter Dwyer story, but not the flesh.

Peter asked that names be excluded from this story because he felt he might forget to mention someone and that this would not sit well with him… “it’s so rewarding to do the right thing in life”… lingers still.

Across South Gippsland and beyond, Peter is held in the highest regard.

People trust him. Families know him. He is now buying and selling with the grandchildren of people he grew up with. He is a man who represents things that are timeless – respect, integrity and genuinely caring about people.

Throughout our discussion he constantly returns to the theme that good people, good friendships and family are what matter and later says with absolute conviction that he is “a privileged person” for having known some of the best of these throughout his life.

Peter Dwyer – Eddie Hams – Kevin Cochrane (Gippsland & Northern representatives) photo taken at former Korumburra saleyards

Today, Peter doesn’t get about as quickly as he used to but there is a quickness to his spirit. We sip tea in a room surrounded by photos of his cherished grandchildren of whom he speaks with love and admiration and whose presence in his everyday life gives him such joy.

And where to now? True to form, right now he’s about to head to the office where more work awaits!!

There doesn’t seem to be any stopping the indefatigable Peter Dwyer, a man for all times and one of South Gippsland’s true living treasures.

Photos taken from Peter Dwyer’s photo album collection

Dwyer's last stand

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STEAMRAIL SNOW TRAIN MAINLINE HERITAGE STEAM & DIESEL TRIPS AROUND VICTORIA An excursion to the snow – by steam train disembarking at Moe for the snowfields or Walhalla Goldfields. Or on through to Traralgon for a leisurely afternoon in the township. These photographs were taken at Traralgon. Information on the timetable and more excursions visit Facebook Steamrail Victoria @steamrail / Photographs by Doug Pell

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r e n cor

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Bunny

Doug the dog

Tolkein & Mozart

Indio the Lowchen

Lucy

Willow

Princess

Diesel the dane

Ringo

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our best friends

...just pawfect

Do you want to place a photo of your dog in Canine Corner ?

It's easy, just email us your pic and their name at thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

Millie

Indi & Rollee

Big Boy Bear

Tolkein

Ruby

Tilka Munchiballs

Yogi & little visitor

Mozart

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Magical Millie It always surprises me that you can travel an hour or so across Gippsland and be in a totally different place, climate and region. My Millie road trips lead me to long-forgotten places that I should’ve remembered but have bypassed over the years.

an unassuming journey into history that I didn’t ever envisage. It was pleasant countryside but honestly, it was literally blink and I missed the town. I had to turn around to go down a muddy side track to get to the historic Tarraville church.

The Anglican church is a lovely and unique building that has witnessed an amazing story of Gippsland come and go. It is the second oldest surviving timber building in Victoria and the oldest church in Gippsland.

Our busy, fast-paced and time-starved lifestyles of today give us less time to appreciate what we have on our doorstep. Millie and I sometimes set off with only vague intentions and direction and just let ourselves be lead to wherever we end up! These Millie road trips slow me down and make me meander and take turns and stops that I normally wouldn’t take.

As l googled facts while looking at the superbly maintained structure that was built of slab construction without any nails I was astonished to discover that Tarraville was at once the biggest town in all of Gippsland! Staring around at the open paddocks it was hard to believe. I had passed some larger old farm houses that seemed to recall better times but it is hard to imagine what would have been here then. The town once held seven hotels, many thriving businesses and over fifty buildings in its heyday.

I don’t know how many times I have driven past the turn off to Port Albert on the South Gippsland Highway near Yarram and barely registered it was there. That’s where Mills and I found ourselves.

The turn off to Tarraville just down the road began

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The tiny church built in 1856 must have witnessed so many things.

The reason this forgotten corner of Gippsland was so important was because it was the gateway to nearby Port Albert which back then was the only route to Gippsland and the goldfields of Dargo.

The Tarraville name comes from the nearby Tarra River which was named after Charley Tarra an aboriginal who travelled with Pawel Strzelecki, an early Gippsland explorer. I stood gobsmacked with Millie at my feet that it had taken me half a lifetime to discover these facts about the region where I live.

The enchanting building had peacefully witnessed the rise and fall of the prosperity of the town.

We drove the short distance to Port Albert which, as I suspected, was named after Queen Victoria’s husband. It is a beautiful picturesque sleepy seaside village. I had been there before but had never taken the time to take much notice of what was around. Most people drive down, get fish and chips at the wharf and out again. This time Millie and I wandered slowly, enjoying the luxury of a sunny winter’s day and nobody else around.

Mystery Tour It is a photographer’s playground with so many images to tantalise the lens.

The shimmering water was magical and the quiet lapping of the waves against the boats was the only sound.

It’s a place that was for a brief time the gateway to the whole of the Gippsland hinterland and welcomed shipping from Melbourne and the world through its port. These would be met by horse drawn wagons to take goods and people on into Gippsland and beyond. It grew quickly and was a thriving and bustling town with buildings that now only hint at its important past. It was so interesting to learn about its history and walk the streets and shoreline and try to imagine how it would have been. The zenith of the town faded gradually when the train line reached Gippsland and the opening up of waterways through the Gippsland Lakes.

Today there is not only the history to appreciate but also the pleasures of relaxation by the seaside.

There is a maritime museum, places to stay and eat. It’s popular for its boating, fishing and surfing close by and of course as we did lovely fish and chips for lunch at the jetty.

I really enjoyed driving around the back streets and seeing the architectural history on display from humble seaside shacks and well preserved historic buildings to the most modern stylish homes.

I drove out of Port Albert with a pledge to return in summer and take a warm stroll along the foreshore with the other visitors.

As we drove towards home we had another unexpected stop. The historic Alberton cemetery is not far from the South Gippsland Highway turn off and is one of the oldest cemeteries in Victoria. Set in 32 acres of lawn with significant native grassland it is a journey into the past of the pioneers.

A unique feature is the riverbank gravesites. Before the road was made whalers would come up the Albert River and bury their dead on the high ground. This continued with others until the road was constructed and the site expanded.

Photos & Words

by Ken Roberts

The walk to the river graves passes grand monuments of marble urns and pillars. When you reach the river you have a glorious view of the rolling South Gippsland hills in the distance.

It is such a peaceful and calm final resting place.

Old cemeteries are time capsules and you could spend so much time reading the headstones and wondering at the stories they tell. This was another place that I could easily return to on a future visit.

Millie and I began our homeward journey with a quick stop in Yarram, a place that encompasses all the self-contained shopping that you need in a quintessential country town. It is also another place to appreciate the glorious old buildings from another era.

At the end of our road trips, I always reflect on where we live in Gippsland and how much there is to see and do. I honestly still become amazed at the diversity that there is in this region. Today I saw many beautiful places and discovered so much of Gippsland’s history. I feel so very lucky to have this so close at hand and to have my sidekick Millie “encourage” me to venture out and find what there is out there. Thanks Millsy!

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geekfest 2019 "come to where the awesome is”

Held in July 2019 at COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM, KORUMBURRA

Michael Sadde from France

A bemused Per Estein Prois-Rohjell

Kryal Castle Players Jousting with Per Estein Prois-Rohjell and Cliff Marisma from Australia

World Jousting Championship held at Lardner Park, Warragul on 1st June, 2019 Photographs by Doug Pell

Andrel Kamin from Russia

Conroi – A group from Brisbane

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Per Estein Prois-Rohjell getting ready for the jousting

Stony Creek Go-Karts is now well and truly one of the highlights of South Gippsland.

EVENT DAY – RETRO KARTING AUSTRALIA F100

■ Hire Karts ■ BYO Kart Membership (Day/Yearly Rate) ■ Corporate Days ■ Group Bookings ■ Birthday Parties & Functions ■ Driver Education ■ Phoenix Kart Agents ■ Kart Sales & Spares ■ Café Please check

website for dates and times.

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10am

PH : 5664 7272

EM: info@stonycreekgokarts.com.au For more information visit stonycreekgokarts.com.au Please Note: When Stony Creek Racing Club is holding a race meeting the venue will be closed. During the winter period the venue is closed mid week unless prior booking is made.

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Your Events Guide to Spring SEPTEMBER HUNGRY JACK’S NBL PRE-SEASON- S.E. MELBOURNE PHOENIX VS BRISBANE BULLETS Latrobe City Council is partnering and hosting the South East Melbourne Phoenix in their inaugural Hungry Jack’s NBL Season Date: Friday 6 September Time: 6:45pm Where: Traralgon Basketball Stadium, Catterick Cres Contact: Latrobe City Events Team www.latrobeevents.eventbrite.com.au

OCTOBER JASPER JONES – LEONGATHA LYRIC THEATRE Date: 13, 14, 19, 20 & 21 September Time: 8pm Evening performances; 2pm Matinee (14 & 21) Where: Mesley Hall, Leongatha Contact: 0409 525 482

WOMEN’S ADVENTURE FILM TOUR 19/20 - SALE This year’s lineup features an all-star cast – Cliff driver Rhiannan Iffland, climber Angie Scarth-Johnson, trail runner Jacqui Bell and many more in show sports, mountaineering and mountain biking.

Date: Friday 6 September Where: The Stratford Courthouse, 66 Tyers Street Contact: 0413 183 804

SOUTH GIPPSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY SPRING SHOW Date: Friday 6 September & Saturday 7 September Time: 9:30am – 4:00pm Where: Wonthaggi Town Hall Contact: Julie Kilgour 0438 721 246 ckilgour@bigpond.net.au BAW BAW PRIDE WEEKEND Fantastic entertainment for 2nd Annual Pride Ride on the Slopes Date: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September Time: 12:00pm – 9:00pm Where: Mount Baw Baw, 32 Currawong Road Contact: 03 5165 1136 guestservices@mountbawbaw.com.au NATURAL IMPRESSIONS – NAT PALASKAS An exhibition of eco-printing and textile work using dyes made from local flora Date: Saturday 7 September (opening) to Sunday 27 October Time: Gallery Open Thursday to Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm Where: Toora Studio Gallery Contact: 0423 155 542 TOTALLY RENEWABLE PHILLIP ISLAND OPEN DAY Date: Sunday 8 September Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm Where: Cowes Cultural Centre Contact: Mary Whelan 0408 055 867 or facebook LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN WARRAGUL EVENT Torch Run from Warragul Police Station to Civic Park followed

by Special Olympics Date: Monday 9 September Time: 11:30am – 2:15pm Where: Warragul Police Station to Civic Park Contact: Baw Baw Shire 1300 229 229 or letr.org.au LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN LEONGATHA EVENT Date: Tuesday 10 September Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm Where: Mary Checkley Reserve Contact: Baw Baw Shire 1300 229 229 or letr.org.au LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN–LAKES ENTRANCE EVENT Respect across Gippsland Date: Thursday 12 September Time: 8:00am – 11:00am Where: Lakes Entrance Rotunda Contact: Facebook @LETRVic for all events LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN TRAFALGAR EVENT Date: Friday 13 September Time: 12:30pm Where: Contingent Street to McCrorey St carpark Contact: Baw Baw Shire 1300 229 229 or letr.org.au

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WARRAGUL ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES FAIR Date: Saturday 14 September Time: 9:30am – 3:00pm Where: Warragul Regional College Hall, 55 Burke St Contact: Ken Spragg 0447 374 298 SAN REMO FISHING FESTIVAL Cruises, Demos, Stalls, Prizes and Giveaways All weather – undercover marquee Date: Saturday 14 September Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm Where: San Remo Foreshore Contact: Paul 0439 341 700 | Craig 0409 019 980 FLYING FOXES AND DISAPPEARING TREES LISA ROBERTS Date: Friday 20 and Saturday 21 September Time: 10:00am – 5:30pm Where: East Gippsland Art Gallery, 2 Nicholson St, Bairnsdale Contact: info@eastgippslandartgallery.org.au 28 ANNUAL WEST GIPPSLAND DANCE FESTIVAL Highly regarded major amateur dance competition Date: Friday 20 to Sunday 29 September Time: 7:30am – 10:30pm Where: West Gippsland Arts Centre, 1 Civic Place, Warragul Contact: 0418 236 435 KRIS KRISTOFFERSON & THE STRANGERS Grammy winner, Kris Kristofferson is touring with band, The Strangers Date: Tuesday 24 September Time: 7:30pm Where: Kernot Hall, Princes Drive, Morwell Contact: Box Office 03 5176 3333 RIVENDELL SPRING GARDEN SOIREE Local Wines, artisan brews, grazing tables, canapés, music, gardens and vintage cars Date: Saturday 28 September Time: 12:00pm – 9:00pm Where: 926 Stephenson Road, Tambo Upper Contact: Facebook @RivendellEastGippsland VICTORIAN STATE CIRCUIT RACING CHAMPIONSHIP Date: Saturday 28 September Time: All day Where: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Contact: Michael Holloway 0413 423 160

GREAT EAST RAIL TRAIL RIDE Three days. Good times. Lycra Optional.

Date: Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm Where: East Gippsland Rail Trail Bairnsdale Contact: Facebook @greateastrailtrailride AUSTRALIAN SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP Watch Australia's premier bike racing series Date: Friday 4, Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 October Time: All day Where: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Contact: (03) 9684 0500 | info@asbk.com.au LIGHT THE NIGHT TRARALGON LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION An evening of Music culminating in a Lighted Lantern Walk to support the Leukaemia Foundation Date: Saturday 5 October Time: 4:00pm – 8.30:pm Where: Soundshell Victory Park, Princes Highway Traralgon Contact: Dawn O’Connell 03 5174 9227 SALE PSYCHIC & WELLBEING EXPO Psychic Mediumship, Tarot, Ribbon Readings, Astrology, Crystals and much more.

Date: Sunday 6 October Time: 10:00am – 5:00pm Where: Sale Memorial Hall, 82 MacAlister Street Contact: Facebook COAL CREEK LITERARY FESTIVAL 2019 Bert Van Bedaf Short Story Competition - $500 prize Open Poetry Competition - $200 prize Date: Sunday 6 October Time: 10:30am – 4:30pm Where: Coal Creek Community Park and Museum Contact: 03 5655 1811 COMMUNITY BUSHFIRE EXERCISE A family-friendly event that is facilitated by the CFA to assist residents in the event of a bushfire.

Date: Saturday 12 October Time: 10:00am Where: Moe South Fire Station, 9 Lynne Ave Contact: John Legione 0407 357 422 GIPPSLAND GARDEN & HOME EXPO Over 150 beautiful displays including 40 nurseries.

Date: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 October Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm Where: Lardner Park, Burnt Store Rd, Lardner Contact: Ross Ough 0409 337 699

Springtime events NOVEMBER GLENMAGGIE CUP Daryl Hamilton 10 year Memorial Race weekend Date: Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 November Where: Lake Glenmaggie Contact: 03 5169 1511

FURRY FUNDRAISERS DOGS DAY OUT This event involves our beloved pets in the fundraising for animals in need – this year for Pets in the Park and Pet Medical Crisis.

Date: Sunday 13 October Time: 12:00pm Where: Old Gippstown, 211 Lloyd Street, Moe Contact: Geraldine McClure 0447 351 295

ANNUAL QUILT DISPLAY Showcasing embroidery, bags, table runners and wall hangings.

The Wonthaggi Woodcrafters will also have some of their goods on display. All proceeds will be donated to emergency services on the island. Entry Adults $5 Children Free. Devonshire Tea $5 and Quilt Raffle.

Date: Saturday 2 November Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm Where: Newhaven Hall Contact: Lyn Duguid 0427 593 936 48TH ANNUAL LEONGATHA ROSE SPECTACULAR Showcases stunning displays of all kinds of roses, with a range of children’s activities and plant stalls.

Date: Friday 8 November and Saturday 9 November Time: 8: 12:00pm – 5:00pm | 9: 9:00am – 4:00pm Where: Leongatha Memorial Hall Contact: Josie 03 5657 3292 THE 2019 BAIRNSDALE SHOW Date: Saturday 9 November Time: 9:00am – 4:30pm Where: Bairnsdale Racecourse, Forge Creek Road Contact: bairnsdaleshow.com.au TRARALGON APEX BONFIRE NIGHT Fireworks, rides, car display, food stalls and bonfire Date: Saturday 9 November Time: 4:00pm Where: Traralgon Recreation Reserve, Whittaker Road Contact: traralgonapex@gmail.com

TOUGH MUDDER – FULL 2019 16+ km, 20+ Obstacles – 2019 includes new obstacles, obstacles from the vault, this is an experience that new and legionnaires will love.

Date: Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October Time: 12:00pm Where: Lardner Park Contact: 5626 1373

6TH BLESSING OF THE BIKES Join thousands of riders as they line their motorcycles on the streets of San Remo.

Date: Saturday 19 October Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm Where: San Remo Foreshore Reserve Contact: Marcel 0427 475 681 inline4@inline4cafe.com.au

HALLOWEEN AT COAL CREEK Date: Saturday 26 October Time: 5:30pm – 10:00pm Where: Coal Creek Community Park & Museum Korumburra Contact: 03 5655 1811

PHILLIP ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL Three days of great jazz – 15th Annual Festival Date: Friday 15, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November Time: All day Where: Ramada Resort Phillip Island (Bass Room) Contact: Robin Blackman 0432 814 407 CHURCHILL FAMILY FISHING DAY Date: Saturday 16 November Time: 10:00am Where: Lake Hyland, Mathison Park Churchill Victoria Contact: Lions Club Bill Hurenkamp 0418 327 287

PHILLIP ISLAND FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Local Food, Wine & Produce Local Musicians, Children’s Entertainment Date: 23 November Time: 11:00am – 9:00pm Where: The Jetty Triangle, Cowes Contact: Darlene 0428 603 043 pifoodwinefestival.com.au THE SUMMIT SURVIVOR Conquer the most obstacle-dense course in Victoria! It’s about fun, mud adventure and teamwork.

Date: Saturday, 23 November Time: 7:00am – 6:00pm Where: The Summit, 21 Cemetery Road, Trafalgar Contact: Leigh Moana 0442 278 270 (03) 5633 3236

AUSTRALIAN MOTOR CYCLE GRAND PRIX Date: Friday 25 October Time: All day Where: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Contact: 1800 100 030 enquiries@grandprix.com.au

CAFÉ CULTURE SERIES AT TARWIN LOWER DR HERNANDEZ plays an exotic tonic of rootsy electro-cumbia soulful boogaloo and funky reggae.

Date: Saturday 30 November Time: 8:00pm sharp – arrive 15 minutes before performance Where: Tarwin Lower Memorial Hall Contact: Sophie or Michelle 03 5662 9202 FOR BOOKINGS

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ARE YOU PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES?

By John Turner B.Social Welfare, Master International & Community Development, GAICD Recently, upon collecting my usual medications from a local pharmacy I remember thinking ‘that seems expensive compared with last time’. When I got home I immediately made a beeline to the medicine cabinet to check the prices on the labels. I was astounded to find that three of the prescription medications for which I had now paid $61.27 had previously cost $34.78 from a different pharmacy. Strange I thought after all, aren’t they all on the same regulated Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)? I took a mental note to research the PBS and to return to the pharmacy at the first opportunity and ask a few pertinent questions to satisfy my curiosity. Armed with the ‘evidence’ I presented myself at the pharmacy the very next day.

Before going on with this particular story a few things are worth mentioning.

Like many older Australians, my life is considerably better than it would otherwise be because of access to modern medicine. We indeed live in the "lucky country" compared to say the US where despite the recent ‘Obama Care’ reforms many people still do not have access to an adequate level of healthcare. In the US basic medications can be prohibitively expensive so that good health becomes a function of personal income rather than medical need. This is exemplified by the fact that in 2018, thirty-six million adults in the US did not fill a prescription because of the cost.

Here in Australia, our PBS policy ensures that very few people are affected the way they are in the US but we should not be complacent. The reality is that the cost of generic prescription medications in Australia is way above the international benchmarks. It is estimated that Australians pay about 4 to 5 times more than the international benchmark prices for generic medications; the good news is that until recently it used to be around 16 times more. This difference between the international benchmark pricing and what we as Australians pay for our medicines translates into hundreds of millions of dollars of taxpayers and consumers money that could be saved or spent beneficially on something else.

Why are we paying more? There are two reasons. First, the government PBS allows the big Pharmaceutical companies to charge more than they get for the same product in say New Zealand or the UK; it seems we are poor negotiators. Second, government policy through PBS is directed towards retail price control and at limiting competition at the retail pharmacy level.

The objective is to ensure universal countrywide access to the pharmacy.

This objective is laudable but perhaps there are better ways of achieving the same result.

In common with many Australians in my age group, my medication regime includes cholesterol reducing statins, medications to reduce blood pressure and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve conditions such as arthritis. This means regular monthly visits to the pharmacy to collect the medications. I had always understood that PBS effectively regulated the pricing of these medications so that it made little difference which pharmacy supplied them.

Imagine my surprise then when, as previously mentioned, I discovered a massive difference between two pharmacies that had supplied my regular generic medications.

How is this possible? For example, how is it that Atorvastatin costs $18.62 in one pharmacy and $7.49 in another? (See below)

Well, one answer I was given is that the first pharmacy dispensed the medication as a ‘private’ script ($7.49) but the second pharmacy dispensed it under PBS ($18.62). A private script does not count towards the Medicare safety net. When I asked what would have been the price if this latter pharmacy had also dispensed the medication, as a private script the answer was $14.00, which is substantially cheaper, but still almost double the price at the other pharmacy.

Now you might find this all perplexing; I certainly do. The medications I take are between 32% and 148% more if they are dispensed under PBS than if they are dispensed privately. Presumably the pharmacy pays the same for the medication no matter how it is dispensed. The price charged for medications based on the PBS price schedule is quite complex but it hardly seems reasonable that a common medication would cost 148% more under PBS pricing than if it is dispensed as a private script.

To a pensioner or other person on a concession card the matter is academic because the ‘gap’ payment is limited, however for those not on a concession card it can make a considerable difference. In my case the difference is almost $500 in a full year on the full range of medications that I take.

As a self-funded retiree who is not registered for the Medicare safety net I would expect a pharmacy to inform and supply at the cheapest rate possible. A big tick for the pharmacy in Leongatha who did this…

Now I always ask, is it cheaper as a private script?

References Duckett,S and Banerjee, P (2017) “Cutting a Better Drug Deal” grattan.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/886-Cutting-a-better-drug-deal.pdf Miller,Emily (2018) “US Drug Prices Versus The World” www.drugwatch.com/featured/us-drug-prices-higher-vs-world/ Mansfield, SJ (2014) “Generic drug prices and policy in Australia: room for improvement?

A comparative analysis with England” in Aust Health Rev. 2014 Feb;38(1):6-15. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24480618 Roughhead, Elizabeth et al (2018) “Pricing policies for generic medicines in Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and Singapore: patent expiry and influence on atorvastatin price” in WHO SE Asia Journal of Public Health, Vol 7, Issue 2, pp 99-106

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HEY DOC HOW ABOUT TAKING MY BLOOD PRESSURE?

By John Turner B.Social Welfare, Master International & Community Development, GAICD Over the last few years there have been several research studies published in the British medical magazine ‘The Lancet’, the ‘British Medical Journal’ and also the ‘American Journal of Medicine’ that have looked at differences in blood pressure readings taken in both arms and what this means for a person's future health.

Small differences in blood pressure readings between the right and left arm are normal but large differences suggest the presence of artery-clogging plaque in the blood vessels of the arm with the higher blood pressure. This plaque is a signal of peripheral artery disease (cholesterol-clogged arteries anywhere in the body other than the heart). When peripheral artery disease is present, there’s a good chance the arteries in the heart and brain are also clogged, boosting the odds of having a heart attack or stroke.

(Corliss, J, March 2014) Have you ever had an appointment with your GP and left without having your blood pressure taken? If the answer is “yes” then you are not alone for unfortunately it is an all too common occurrence.

I retired in 2018 after spending more than two decades as a manager in the health sector most of which were spent in General Medical Practice. When I hear a friend or acquaintance telling me that they went to see their doctor and the doctor did not take their blood pressure it is guaranteed to send my own blood pressure soaring.

You may be wondering why I think it is ‘unfortunate’ if a doctor fails to take a patient’s blood pressure? The simple answer is that a person’s blood pressure is an important indicator of their health status; changes to it may signify an underlying medical problem particularly if such a change occurs suddenly.

A blood pressure measurement consists of two readings. The first of these is the ‘systolic’, which is when the blood pressure in the arteries is at its maximum and this occurs as the heart beats. The second reading is the ‘diastolic’ which is the blood pressure while the heart is at rest between heart beats.

You are probably aware that there are guidelines for what is considered a ‘healthy’ range for blood pressure but these are guidelines only. What is most important are changes in blood pressure over time as changes may be a precursor to some significant shift in a person’s health. So for example, a person could have a blood pressure of 120/80 which is considered in the healthy range but it could be a cause for concern if their blood pressure previously was consistently lower at 110/70 or less, which is common with very fit individuals. The change could indicate a change in the person’s physiology and an underlying health problem. It is therefore important for health professionals to monitor a patient’s blood pressure on a regular basis and to consider any trends that may point to a change in the patient’s health status. It is particularly important that people who are diabetic, hypertensive or have known heart problems should have their blood pressure closely monitored.

Taking a person’s blood pressure also has another role that is often overlooked by the health professional. People generally underestimate the importance of ritual in our daily lives. What occurs in the doctors consulting room is a ritual of which taking blood pressure is a part. By going through the ritual the doctor confirms to the patient that they care about them and their health. It has been well documented by distinguished neuro scientists such as Fabrizio Benedetti in his book ‘The Patient’s Brain’, that the empathy a doctor shows towards their patient has a very important positive placebo effect and actually assists the patient in their path towards recovery.

There is another important aspect to taking blood pressure and this is concerned with the early identification of vascular problems that can have serious health consequences. Large differences in the blood pressure between arms can provide early warning of an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. There is also another reason to check blood pressure in both arms; if the pressure in one arm is higher than the other then the arm with the highest blood pressure should be the one upon which to base any treatments and to check the blood pressure in the future.

Researchers have found that a difference in the systolic pressure of 10 points or more increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke, or a related problem by 38% while people with a difference of 15 points or more are twice as likely to have Peripheral Artery Disease. PAD as it is known, affects more people than heart disease and stroke combined. It kills some, maims others, and makes life painful for countless more. PAD is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood. Over time, plaque can harden and narrow the arteries. This limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body. What is important to understand is that PAD increases your risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack, stroke and mini-strokes.

So, next time you step into the doctors consulting room and it looks as though the doctor will not be taking your blood pressure give them a not so gentle reminder: “Hey Doc how about taking my blood pressure in both arms?” It could just be the most important question you have asked.

References: Benedetti, Fabrizio (2010) “The Patients Brain” ISBN: 9780199579518 Oxford University Press, Oxford, England Benedetti, Fabrizio (2002) “ How the Doctors Words Affect the Patient’s Brain” Sage Journals https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0163278702238051 Clark, Christopher et al (2012) “The difference in blood pressure readings between arms and survival” http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.e1327 Harvard Health Blog (2014) Harvard Heart Letter www.health.harvard.edu US Dept of Health & Human Service (2014) “What is Peripheral Arterial Disease” http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/pad/ Victorian Government Better Health Channel (2014) “ Peripheral Vascular Disease” www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Peripheral_vascular_ disease Weinberg, I et al (2014) “The Systolic Blood Pressure Difference Between Arms and Cardiovascular Disease in the Framingham Heart Study” The American Journal of Medicine, 2014; 127 (3): 209 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2013.10.027

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5

SIMPLE STRATEGIES to PREVENT BURNOUT in the WORKPLACE It is normal to feel stressed at work from time to time. However, for some people, stress becomes chronic and consuming. This is known as burnout. The World Health Organisation has officially added “Burnout” to its International Classification of Diseases.

The reason this happens is continuous stress puts a lot of pressure on the body. This can be manageable in the short-term, but if it is constant, it can be bad for both your physical health and emotional wellbeing. Eventually, too much stress on your body over a long period can cause you to burn out.

Burnout is a state of complete mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.

The signs and symptoms of burnout are listed as: FEELINGS OF EXHAUSTION FEELINGS OF NEGATIVISM OR CYNICISM RELATED TO ONE'S JOB REDUCED PROFESSIONAL EFFICACY (WORK PERFORMANCE) In other words, you have reached breaking point and it feels like you have had the life sucked out of you. You no longer feel capable of caring about what is important to you, to making any effort, or staying motivated.

You have lost your mojo and simply do not care.

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According to Corporate Health and Performance Coach Christine Boucher from Natural Health Balance reducing your stress and eliminating the potential for burnout comes down to five simple lifestyle considerations:

TAKE A BREAK Taking regular time out, including setting aside some time each day to 'switch off' from technology. Do something you love, paint a picture, walk your happy dog, ride your bike. Reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh air and smell the roses along the way. In the workplace, go outside and sit on the grass, walk to the water fountain for a cool drink or connect with a work colleague for a friendly chat.

SUPPORT Reach out for support if you feel you need, it is healthy to ask for help. Ask a friend, family member, workmate or boss. Alternatively, if you see that someone you know needing help, a friend, employee or neighbour, provide him or her with the support required. Refer to a doctor, if stress is to blame, your doctor can recommend a therapist or counsellor to help them handle the stress.

RELAXATION Relax, finding new ways to bring the body back into balance. Develop a list of self-care strategies, which could include journaling, meditation, massage, yoga, reading, music, mindfulness, stretching, tai chi, and breathing techniques. Find what works for you and turn off the fight or flight switch and turn on the rest and digest switch. Relaxing activities are as good as sleep putting the body back into a healthy homeostatic balance where it can repair, rejuvenate and heal.

Understanding the issue of burnout, recognising workplace factors, being aware of signs and symptoms and taking pro-active steps for prevention can help reduce the impact of burnout on employees and workplaces. Do not wait until it is too late, it can take months even years to recover from burnout. Prevention is better than cure and much more cost effective for a business.

Needing support with reducing stress in your workplace and eliminating the risk of burnout for your employees? Sign up for the Stress to Strength Online Program at Natural Health Balance. A helpful guide for employees to move from a state of stress into a state of certainty and strength. Learn practical proven strategies to live a happier more controlled and connected life. Improving organisational performance, productivity and profit.

CONTACT CHRISTINE TO PROVIDE THE STRESS TO STRENGTH ONLINE PROGRAM AND PREVENT BURNOUT IN YOUR WORKPLACE TODAY.

RESILIENCE Build your resilience so that you do not sweat the small stuff. Do this by looking after your health, eating well, exercising regularly, and getting a good night’s sleep. When we are strong and resilient we are better equipped to handle the curve ball thrown our way unexpectedly.

SET BOUNDARIES It is important to set boundaries; it is ok to say no. I often see my clients over extending themselves bending over backward trying to help everyone else to the detriment of their own health and well-being. Are you someone who helps those who ask, maybe you end up doing tasks that are someone else’s responsibility putting you behind with your own work or joining the committee you have no interest in. Saying yes to everything can create stress and overwhelm. Say it with me now. NO! Feels good right?

CHRISTINE BOUCHER of Natural Health Balance is a corporate health and performance coach transforming organisations to work productively and cohesively as a team. Improving the health of staff and the wellbeing of business through performance management, health coaching and team building to improve productivity, performance and profitability.

Christine is dedicated and passionate about Health & Wellness.

Holding a Bachelor of Nursing Degree, specialising in Intensive Care Nursing. With over 20 years’ experience working in the healthcare industry. www.naturalhealthbalance.com.au

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getting off the couch & into nature with family

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

THERE’S NO DOUBTING THAT THE WAY WE PARENT AND THE EXPECTATIONS FOR KEEPING OUR CHILDREN ENTERTAINED HAS SIGNIFICANTLY ALTERED SINCE I WAS GROWING UP IN THE EIGHTIES AND NINETIES. (I AM, HOWEVER, CONFUSED AS TO WHY MULLET HAIRCUTS HAVE BECOME POPULAR AGAIN; SOME THINGS SHOULD CHANGE FROM THE EIGHTIES FOR THE BETTER.) WORDS & IMAGES BY CHRISTIE NELSON Back then, the technological age was beginning to step up a notch and I can clearly recall our Primary School teacher asking us to list any new inventions that have arisen in our little lifetimes and I was deeply intrigued by the notion of recording music onto CD’s (that’s compact discs for any millennial reading) and this new thing called dial-up internet.

The list was small in those days and now it’s hard to keep up with the advancements in technology, societal pressure to constantly ‘upgrade’ and the sensory overload that children have come to expect and can become addicted to.

Don’t get me wrong, everything has its place in our modern world and I have online and social networking businesses that rely on technology, but I’m also an early childhood educator, a Mum to a Brady-bunch of six active children and a big believer in balance, moderation and role-modelling for our children.

Geoff and Debi Nakasendo

Koonwarra Parkrun

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We are lucky enough to live in this beautiful Gippsland area where there are open spaces, ample fresh air and lots of opportunities to get active and take a screen break. Personally, my husband and I love nothing more than getting the kids out of our house, in the nicest possible way.

Prolonged inactivity and screen time can lead to poor social, physical and intellectual development in children and we want to give them all the best start in life so I’d love to share some of my top ten ideas of places to visit as a family and best of all, they’re free!

Parkrun

1. PARKRUN: www.parkrun.com.au Parkrun is a free event organised by volunteers each week around Australia and overseas and is a 5 kilometre, timed event that can be as slow or fast paced as you wish. The whole family is welcome (including the four-legged variety) and you can walk, stroll, run with prams and children, or on your own, whilst your 11+ year old waits for you at the end to catch up for ten minutes like mine did.

2. LYREBIRD FOREST WALK: Mirboo North 4.8kms, Off the Strzelecki Hwy, Mirboo North This is a picturesque walk through the trees and is a very easy walk for children who are four years of age upwards as there are sections that aren’t suitable for prams. Pack some lunch and enjoy a wander and some history and birdlife along the way.

3. FOSTER MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK: Wilson Rd, Foster A great track for beginners or those with more technical ability. Located right on the edge of town, this track is easy to navigate and was ideal for us to walk around with our younger children whilst the big boys explored on their bikes.

4. LYSTERFIELD PARK MOUNTAIN BIKE TRACK & PICNIC GROUND Horswood Rd, Lysterfield This park is a state of the art facility and where the 2006 Commonwealth Games mountain bike events were held. The park boasts 20 kilometres of mountain bike and walking tracks around the area and suits the whole family as well as the more professional riders. The ride around the lake was particularly beautiful and we shared the tracks with an abundance of native wildlife. There is a lot of parking, picnic and toilet facilities and is also a popular place for canoeing, paddle boards and sailing.

5. WILSON’S PROMONTORY NATIONAL PARK

Lyrebird Forest Walk

7. MOUNT ST GWINEAR, BAW BAW NATIONAL PARK during Winter The toboggan and ski runs are free to explore and there are good toilet and change room facilities available. Waterproof gear is a definite must as gumboots aren’t suitable for little, cold feet. I suggest pooling resources with friends and borrowing or hiring some gear for the day. Toboggans are cheap to hire and we utilised the hire facility at Erica on the way there for chains also. There are the occasional food trucks on-site but I’d recommend taking a thermos and pack some food. The Thomson Dam is a lovely spot to stop for a picnic on the way there or back.

8. CAPE PATERSON ROCK POOL Surf Beach Rd Cape Paterson This man-made rock pool is a spot of underwater wonder for all ages and provides a great place for learning, exploration and swimming plus a patrolled beach close by over summer.

9. THE LEONGATHA WETLANDS entrance located on Johnson St off Ritchie St This and any local wetlands are a wonderful place to visit for a picnic or a fun option is to create a scavenger hunt and an eye spy list to explore our natural world.

10. GREAT SOUTHERN RAIL TRAIL The trail runs from Leongatha to Port Welshpool and spans over 74 kilometres through picturesque farmland and charming country towns with booming cafés, pizzerias and boutique shops along the way. Choose your own adventure and distance you’d like to ride or walk and just remember when riding with children, to pace yourself on the way out as there’s nothing worse than trying to carry kids and their bikes at the same time on the way back.

Ref: Australian Government Department of Health. Health.vic.gov.au

The Prom is one of my favourite places on earth and within reach for many.

It’s wonderful for a day trip or an extended stay and boasts pristine beaches, a variety of walks plus a café and shop for any essentials required (including ice-cream of course).

6. ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, CRANBOURNE Cnr Ballarto Rd & Botanic Dr, Cranbourne Ideal for a day trip with children of all ages and with a strong emphasis on history and Country. The gardens are spectacular and interactive and have excellent access for prams, wheelchairs and is an easy, flat walk to explore. In the warmer months, I’d recommend taking a towel and a change of clothes for the children, as there’s also a fun water play area.

Leongatha Wetlands

Christie is a dual health and wellness business owner, business builder, social networker, educator and busy Mum who can offer solutions and products to those looking for a postive change.

For further information, please email youcanactivewear@gmail.com or go to www.youcanlifestyle.com.au | www.christienelson.arbonne.com youcanactivewearandlifestyle youcanactivewear christienelson0827

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By Erin Miller

To put everything into balance is good, but to put everything into harmony is better.

Victor Hugo

As a mama to 3 little people, doing my best to run several businesses from home, I know all too well the challenges that come with the juggle of that which is work and life.

And to be honest the whole work-life balance thing can sometimes be a challenge for me, always just a little out of reach.

When you think about it work-life balance is a funny term as it suggests that there is a “balance” or the correct portion of “work” and “life” to be discovered.

How is this possible when work and life aren’t two independent things, they cross and connect in so many ways, to extract one from the other would not be realistic.

So, when we say we are seeking work-life balance what are we really meaning?

Granted this will be different for everyone, but for me, it’s about how my work and life support each other so I can be the best version of me that I can be.

Not only for myself but also for all those around me!

Introducing work-life harmony, ah now we’re talking. With this slight shift in perspective, the whole work-life picture changes – for the better I think!

This concept of work-life harmony I believe is a more appropriate goal for living to our full potential as it means fitting in your work as a complement to living your life.

Erin Miller is a personal life coach, motivational speaker, published author and proud mama to 3 very active little boys.

Her previous career roles have been quite diverse and she has a background in hospitality/ travel, disability/mental health and business management.

Erin is formally trained in a variety of modalities including NLP, Life Coaching, Mindfulness & Meditation, and has had the privilege to work with clients all around Australia and also runs empowerment workshops, retreats and group events.

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I like to think of it as being like a musical orchestra, where different notes are sounded together to create a beautiful sound. Sometimes, there are going to be times in life when the brass instruments are going to be playing the loudest and getting our attention. And then sometimes with work, the beats of the base might be at the forefront.

So, how can we tune the notes of work and life to make them play together in symphony?

What new notes can we introduce or remove to make them sound more pleasing and in harmony with each other?

In practical terms, we might ask ourselves the following questions: • What aspects of my life are having the most positive/negative effect on my work or life?

• Can I improve an area of my life by shifting something with my work or vice versa?

• What changes could I make to my life and work so that each supports me better in living to my fullest potential?

With this slight change in perspective, I know it’s now going to be so much easier to achieve my mantra for this year of simplicity.

What do you need to do to achieve your wonderful symphony?

Do you have a question or a topic you would like Erin to write about?

Send me an email at erin@erinmiller.com.au Erin Miller is a Holistic Life Coach, NLP Practitioner, Healer and Writer. Her aim is to live life with a sense of excitement, anticipation and energy! Her passion and purpose is to help and guide others to also find their true calling and zest for life!

For further information please call 0418 328 441 or visit my website www.erinmiller.com.au

SPRING SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2019 SUN SIGN ASTROLOGY forecast with KERRY GALEA ARIES !

LIBRA '

21 March – 19 April

23 Sep – 22 Oct

It’s been a time of service and duty and are you pushing yourself too much? Are you overdoing responsibility? It’s better to be responsible for yourself, and your health, and take some well-deserved time-out. Mid-month is the time to pay attention to other people, including loved ones, to ensure mutual co-operation occurs. Hidden difficulties can come into the open and healing can occur, or it can bring awkward tensions and further misunderstandings. Later in the season you will be entrusted with private information, and you may also learn something that you don’t like.

Consult with people who have the right knowledge in the right areas.

Early this season nobody is noticing you. This can be frustrating, but to make the best of it, allow the world to flow around you, watch others and go with the flow.

But suddenly you will be noticed, and people like what they see, and you can step into the light. Then you can express yourself with what really matters. During midseason you can achieve a great deal by stepping forward, being direct and not letting others take the lead. Later in the season you can find exactly the right things to say at the right moment.

SCORPIO (

TAURUS "

23 Oct – 21 Nov

20 April – 20 May “Don’t do today what you can do tomorrow” is a motto that will soon lead you into trouble. An indulgent attitude and friends, will easily distract you from what must be done. By mid-month it’s time to knuckle down to work and take care of your duties and responsibilities, including what was ignored or forgotten. You will have fun times with people, so it’s not all hard work. Take the opportunities offered to ask questions and understanding will soon be reached. Later in the season you will try to help others but they are not in the right space to accept it.

Keep making plans and goals for your long-term future, for the groups you are involved with and for your community. What “tribe” of people is important to you?

Is it the people or the ideals that matter? Do your ideals still match theirs?

Mid-season, you can gain and share information easily, but it’s time to stay in the background and reflect. It’s a great time to learn, but wait awhile before taking new actions. Later in the season you are going to change your mind, perhaps repeatedly, so make sure all actions can be adjusted at will. Others may misunderstand what you are saying.

GEMINI #

SAGITTARIUS )

Life’s demands, especially work, are high and results in confusion. Reactions can arise from deep unconscious hurts and lead to feelings that are hard to understand.

They say that sometimes it’s merely a straw that breaks the camel’s back? Don’t let it get that far. Mid-season is the time to express yourself, and your creative playful adventurous side. Let the inner rebel out to play. Enjoy doing what you love best, or try new ideas so you can find out what you are going to love. Later in the season, it’s time to pay attention to details.

Aiming for success is great, but it does have its challenges and it can be exhausting.

You will achieve a lot during this time, but you may find you have bitten off more than you can chew. Authority figures will test you. Mid-season its time to think of the big picture and ponder on your goals for the future. You may get involved in a group activity but don’t get hyper-involved as this is a year about you… not the group.

Later in the season, you will attract opportunities and draw people towards you.

21 May – 20 June

22 Nov – 21 Dec

CAPRICORN *

CANCER $

22 Dec – 19 Jan

21 June – 22 July

Communication, talking, and a restless mind will keep you busy. While you could overthink everything, these first weeks are a perfect time to make decisions, study, or express your opinions. But second-guessing yourself can cause confusion.

Mid-season is the time to focus on the home front and also take time to entertain your mind on creative ideas. Undertake home renovations, or sort out family friction in order to make it better. Be aware that your mind is so busy that it can limit clear and concise communication. Late in the season it’s time to go back to your essentials and express the real you.

We filter our understanding through layers of early life experiences, cultural and social upbringing, personal values, opinions… and we try to call them facts. What are facts? What is empirical truth? Take time to question facts and where they come from. Soon your workplace and your various roles in life are in the spotlight.

Your ambitions are rising and you want more involvement and recognition from the work you do. Stepping-up means that authority figures could see you as a challenge. If you want what they want… they will delight in your endeavours. Later in the season it’s time to plan for the future.

AQUARIUS +

LEO %

20 Jan – 18 Feb

23 July – 22 Aug What is being worthy? It is not how much money one has. It is not how much status one has, and it is not how attractive one looks. Worth is how you feel about yourself.

Look in the mirror and like the person looking back at you. Say hello... connect with yourself. This is the real jewel of life. Mid-season your mind is racing and probably moving too fast for your tongue. Check that others understand before you jump to the next thought. Write ideas down before you forget. Later in the season there is more going on than what is obvious, especially with family.

Changing from the caterpillar into the butterfly requires some time in the chrysalis. In this time of retreat, you can look closely at life and decide what sort of butterfly you want to become. Expect it to cost you some money, time or effort.

By mid-season your goals are important and these do not arise from ideas.

They arise from what you value and what you believe in. I suggest writing down at least 5 values that are important to you. There will be one missing. What is it? Late in the season, authorities are not telling you all that you should know, so keep asking them questions.

VIRGO &

PISCES ,

23 Aug – 22 Sep

19 Feb – 20 March

This is a time of great activity. Energy levels are high and need an outlet. Get out there and make things happen. You may suddenly find yourself the leader, if so, make a difference. Other people will easily get sidetracked. They might have the creative ideas, but you have the drive. While decisions are quickly and easily made, you could make them “too” fast. Rather than making them on the basis of “I believe” and “I want”, choose to follow solid practical reality? Later in the season miscommunication could rise, so be careful with making major decisions or risk repenting, redoing or repeating.

Be supportive to the other people in your life. This is an important time for them.

They seem to know what they are doing, and they seem the have the inspiration to achieve it. Don’t hold them back and don’t let them push you. By mid-season, all the action is happening behind the scenes. You can peak beneath the surface and see the inner motivations and hidden reasons behind people’s actions. This inner awareness leads to an outer search for more knowledge. And by later in the season you are learning and exploring which can come from study, instruction, or travel… which do you prefer?

KERRY GALEA ASTROLOGY PALMISTRY AND ANCIENT MOON GARDENING Email: kerry@kerrygalea.com.au | Web: www.kerrygalea.com.au

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WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP

Accredited Providers of High Quality Medical Services to the Bass Coast Community

YOUR LOCAL GENERAL PRACTICE FOR • Medical Services for the whole family • Obstetrics - Pregnancy Management/Birth • Palliative Care • Aged Care • Vascular Health Assessments • General Health Assessments • Healthy Kids Check

• Immunisation • Diabetes Management, Education and Risk Assessment • Asthma Management & Education • GP Management Plans • Chronic Disease Management - Team Care Arrangements • Skin Checks and Lesion Removal • Travel Health Advice

OPENING HOURS 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi

8.30am - 6.00pm Mon - Fri 9.00am - 12.00pm Sat

25 A'Beckett Street, Inverloch

9.00am - 12.30pm | 2.00pm - 5.00pm Mon - Fri

Consulting Suites, Wonthaggi Hospital After Hours

9.00am - 12.00pm | 2.00pm - 5.30pm Mon - Fri 6.00pm -8.00pm

2/1524 Bass Highway, Grantville

9.00am - 12.30pm | 2.00pm - 4.30pm Mon - Fri

Holiday Season

MOO’S is closed on CHRISTMAS DAY & BOXING DAY Then OPEN 7 Days a Week until the end of January

Tel: 5672 1333 For Appointments and After Hours www.wonthaggimedical.com.au 160

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WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR COPY GIPPSLAND LIFESTYLE OUTLETS Bairnsdale newsXpress 21 Bailey St Bairnsdale Main Street Newsagency 212 Main Street Berwick Newsagency 29-31 High Street Boolarra Store & Newsagency 9 Tarwin Street Bunyip IGA 2-6 Main Street Churchill Newsagency Hazelwood Village Shopping Centre Cowes Newsagency 44-46 Thompson Avenue Dalyston General Store 4213 Bass Highway Drouin Newsagency 93 Princes Way Fish Creek Alison Lester 1 Falls Road Foster FoodWorks 37 Main Street Garfield Licensed Post Office 77 Main Street Glengarry General Store Main Street Golden Beach Blue Water Fish & Chips Grantville Newsagency & Post Office Shop 2, 1503 Bass Hwy Heyfield IGA 18-22 George Street Inverloch FoodWorks 10-12 Reilly Street Inverloch Newsagency 10 A'Beckett Street The Jindi Caf 1055 Jacksons Track Korumburra Michael's Supa IGA 1 South Railway Cres Lakes Entrance Newspower 297 Esplanade Lang Lang IGA 32 Main Street Leongatha Authorised Newsagency 30 Bair Street Leongatha Michael's Supa IGA Cnr Church & Bruce Sts Loch Sport Food Works 48-52 Lake Street Loch Village Food Store 35 Victoria Road Maffra FoodWorks 87A Powerscourt Street Maffra newsXpress 144 Johnson Street Metung Village Store 62 Metung Road Mirboo North Newsagency 52 Ridgway Moe Nextra Lotto Shop 2, 1-3 Moore Street Morwell Newsagency 174-176 Commercial Road Nar Nar Goon, Clough Fuel 1975 Princes Hwy Neerim Junction General Store Main Road Neerim South IGA147 Main Road Newry General Store 44 Main Street Omeo Post Office 155 Day Avenue Pakenham Newsagency 99-101 Main Street Paynesville Newsagency 65a The Esplanade Poowong IGA 17-19 Main Street Rhyll General Store 41 Lock Road Rosedale Butchers 32 Prince Street Sale Newsagency 308-310 Raymond Street San Remo IGA 135 Main Parade Stratford IGA 67 Tyers Street Swifts Creek General Store Great Alpine Road Tarwin Lower IGA 45 River Drive Thorpdale Bakery 34 Station Street Tinamba General Store Maffra-Rosedale Road Toora FoodWorks 66 Stanley Street Trafalgar IGA 5 McCrorey Street Trafalgar Newsagency 97 Princes Hwy Traralgon Seymour Street News 83 Seymour Street Ventnor The Anchorage Caravan Park Ventnor Road Venus Bay General Store 139 Jupiter Blvd Warragul Newsagency & Officesmart 43 Victoria Street Welshpool Supermarket 18 Main Street Wonthaggi Newsagency 31 Murray Street Yallourn North Supermarket 42-44 North Road Yanakie General Store 3640 Meeniyan-Promontory Road Yarragon Newsagency 107A Princes Highway Yarram newsXpress 195-197 Commercial Road Yinnar General Store 44 Main Street

EVANS PETROLEUM OUTLETS Fish Creek 2 Falls Road Foster 94 Main Street Inverloch 25 Williams Street Johnsonville 1760 Princes Highway Korumburra 2-8 Commercial Street Leongatha 7 Anderson Street Leongatha 95 Bair Street Mirboo North 106 Ridgway Newmerella 5327 Princes Highway Sale 344-350 Raglan Street Toora 26 Foster Road Wonthaggi 103-105 McKenzie Street Yarram 325 Commercial Street

RITCHIES SUPA IGA Stores Bairnsdale 30 Howitt Avenue Churchill 5-8 Georgina Way Cranbourne 23 High Street Maffra 102 Johnson Street Paynesville 3-5 Wellington Street Sale 177 York Street Wonthaggi 160 Graham Street

WONTHAGGI NEWSPOWER & LOTTO

Monday to Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm Saturday 7.30am to 1.00pm | Sunday Closed 31 Murray Street, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 1256

Gippsland the Lifestyle Magazine is published quarterly.

This magazine is distributed throughout Victoria. All photographs in this publication are copyright to Gippsland the Lifestyle, and if any are used in other publications or used in a commercial sense, you are liable to prosecution. Permission to use any photos in the publication must be obtained by contacting South Gippsland Publishing Pty Ltd via email to: thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au Disclaimer: South Gippsland Publishing Pty Ltd 2019 has the discretion to add or remove words or photos that are deemed unsuitable for the magazine. South Gippsland Publishing Pty Ltd is not responsible or liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, nor use of information contained within these pages, offering no warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to any material contained within the pages. Material in this magazine cannot be published or reproduced without South Gippsland Publishing Pty Ltd's written consent. Failure to heed to this could result in prosecution. The opinions and views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.

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Where the lifestyle continues

blue Hills Rise

Family owned and operated - Blue Hills Rise joins the multi award winner Blue Hills Residences as the best 55 plus resort lifestyle options in Cranbourne East. Looking for the best way to spend your retirement, Blue Hills Rise offers six unit designs with modern furnishings and fittings.

If you want to downsize our two bedroom Stephanie Apartments, may just be the answer.

Live independently, within a secure, caring environment.

Like us on facebook

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START THE RETIREMENT YOU HAVE WORKED TOWARD....

CALL THE TEAM AT BLUE HILLS RISE TODAY (03) 5991 5000

fa n ta s t ic On s i t e fa c i l i t i e s There are so many 55 plus lifestyle resorts around, all offering something different, the biggest question you need to ask is ‘What am I looking for?’

If you are looking for a quality home with access to some of the most amazing onsite facilities, then Blue Hills Rise is the best choice for you.

This family owned and operated 55 plus resort, has a variety of home designs, all offering something just a little different.

You will quickly realise that the Resort Owners, the Clarkson family, are serious about the homes they build in their very popular resort in Cranbourne East. No expense has been spared; all fittings and furnishings are of an extremely high standard.

Swimming Pool / Spa Indoor Bowls Dance Floor Tennis Courts Alfresco Café - Orange Leaf Gymnasium Library Restaurant Sports Bar Cinema Arts and Crafts Centre Administration Centre ATM Computer Room BOWLING GREEN VILlAGE BUS

The recent addition of Shopping On Clyde Shopping Centre right next door - you have a great variety of shops within walking distance.

Remember Blue Hills Rise is only a 50 minute drive to Melbourne, and close to the Dandenong Ranges and the door step to Phillip Island and the Gippsland region.

Call David & Rikki today to kick off the retirement you have worked towards Blue Hills Rise 240 Berwick-Cranbourne Road Cranbourne East 3977

phone: 03 5991 5000

Open 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, or via appointments on the weekend.

www.bluehillsrise.com.au