Autumn 2016 Gippsland the Lifestyle

the lifestyle. Our pride, Our place autumn

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INVERLOCH FREE RANGE EGGS Home on the free range

BROTHERS IN ARMS

Moe’s Gelagotis Brothers

MAGNETIC TRINCULO Shipwreck at Golden Beach

DAN MCCONNELL From Bruthen to Rio

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE 2016 SEASON FIXTURE INSIDE ISSN 1838-8124

+ REGULAR FEATURES

Horoscope | Book Reviews | Positive Lifestyle Tips | Canine Corner | Gardening Tips

EASTER EGG HUNT - PAINT & TAKE MINIATURES EASTER HUNT Sunday 27 March 2016 - 10.00 am -1.30 pm A fun family day out not to be missed Hunt for golden blocks to exchange for Easter Eggs $5.00 per hunting Licence.

Non-denominational Church Service held at Coal Creek Church Learn how to draw and Easter Bunny $2.00 per ticket Meet Easter Bunny and take a photo at Rotunda and Lucky Door Prize drawn PAINT & TAKE SESSION Free session 10.00am at the Court House Participation Games of Easter Wars using pre-painted figures SCHOOL HOLIDAYS COAL CREEK

is open 7 Days a Week Ride the diesel train or Red Rocket Tractor Join one of our school holiday programs call for more information

SOUTH GIPPSLAND SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL

10.00 – 3.00 Sunday 3 April 2016

GHOST TOURS

3rd Saturday of the month $25.00 per person.

Visit Coal Creek after dark.

Visitors on our Ghost Tours have exclusive access, so the atmosphere won’t be shattered by crowds or traffic.

Are their ghosts? Truth or myth?

Tours available for Group & Corporate & Team Building, Schools & University Groups

RIDE THE COUNT STRZELECKI STEAM TRAIN

$10.00 per person Sunday 10 April Sunday 12 June Sunday 14 Aug Sunday 16 Oct Sunday 11 Dec

RIDE THE DIESEL TRAIN

MONTHLY EVENTS

EDUCATION AT COAL CREEK

Every Weekend - $6.50 per person from 11:00am Please call 5655 1811 to make sure the train is running for your visit.

Craft and Farmers Market 2nd Saturday monthly Ghost Tour 3rd Saturday monthly Magic Lantern Show Last Sunday of the month

Coal Creek offers a unique learning environment for your school. There are many education packages to choose from to make planning your excursion simpler. Call Coal Creek today for more information.

1- 5 Roughhead Street, Leongatha, Vic, 3953 P (03) 5662 2327 F (03) 5662 2642 E edney@dsci.net.au www.edneysleongatha.com.au LMCT 1500

index advertisers

our advertisers Page 148 Page 3 Page 80 Page 107 Page 80 Page 28 Page 146 - 147 Page 12 Page 81 Page 6 Page 41 Page 36 Page 4 Page 67 Page 64 Page 65 Page 18 Page 5 Page 115 Page 41 Page 68 Page 15 Page 46 Page 45 Page 29 Page 33 Page 111 Page 92 Page 29 Page 120 Page 37 Page 77 Page 2 Page 85 Page 35 Page 24

ALAN WILSON INSURANCE BROKERS ALEX SCOTT & STAFF REAL ESTATE ALI FULLARD ART STUDIO ARTIZAN KITCHEN ARTSPACE WONTHAGGI BLUE DUCK INN BLUE HILLS RISE BOATHOUSE PIZZA BAR & GRILL BRANDY CREEK RESTAURANT, VINEYARD & DAY SPA BRIAN PAYNTER MP BROADBEACH INVERLOCH HEALTH CLUB CAPTAINS LOUNGE ESPLANADE HOTEL COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM CRAWFORD MARINE CURTIS AUSTRALIA DINNER PLAIN – HOTHAM ALPINE RESORT DOWNTOWNER – WARRAGUL SPORTING CLUB EDNEYS LEONGATHA EVANS PETROLEUM FISH CREEK HOTEL FOSTER SEAFOODS FRANKIE’S CAFÉ GIPPSLAND COFFEE CAB GIPPSLAND LEAGUE 2016 FIXTURE GOLDEN AGE HOTEL MOTEL OMEO GRINTERS TRANSPORT SERVICES GROW MASTER TRARALGON HARMAN WINES HINNOMUNJIE PICNIC RACES IMAGE DIRECT INVERLOCH ESPLANADE HOTEL KELLY & GEMELLI ART & DESIGN LANGFORD JONES HOMES LAURIE COLLINS SCULPTURE GARDEN LEONGATHA RSL MAD COWES CAFÉ & FOODSTORE

Page 7 Page 69 Page 13 Page 89 Page 107 Page 29 Page 33 Page 33 Page 52 Page 58 Page 53 Page 85 Page 105 Page 121 Page 84 Page 120 Page 22 Page 39 Page 60 Page 39 Page 34 Page 97 Page 150 - 151 Page 9 Page 23 Page 17 Page 109 Page 25 Page 19 Page 60 Page 73 Page 129 Page 39 & 144 Page 85 Page 47 Page 141

MERCURE HOTELS WARRAGUL MOO’S AT MEENIYAN MOUNT BAW BAW PACKAGES NATURAL INDULGENCE HAIR & WELLNESS NAUTICA RESTAURANT & BAR METUNG OMEO DISTRICT RACING CLUB OMEO GERMAN CUCKOO CLOCK SHOP OMEO RURAL & HARDWARE SUPPLIES PAINT PLACE GROUP OF STORES PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS PHILLIP ISLAND RSL RED TREE GALLERY RIVERSLEIGH BOUTIQUE HOTEL RIVIERA CYCLES BAIRNSDALE ROSEMONT FARMSTAY RUSSELL NORTHE MLA STONY CREEK GO-KARTS STRAY KATZ BOUTIQUE INVERLOCH TAMARALYNS CAFÉ THE BLACK SHEEP CAFÉ & WINE BAR THE MINERS COTTAGES THE TINY TEAPOT CAFÉ TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB TRARALGON TOYOTA V8 SUPERCARS WARRAGUL HARNESS RACING CLUB WATERFRONT RETREAT AT WATTLE POINT WIGHTS HYUNDAI WIGHTS NISSAN WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES WILDWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY & LOTTO YARRAGON VINTAGE MARKET YARRAM CLUB HOTEL ZEST HOLISTIC COACHING

COME AND VISIT US FARMWORLD

Be Seen, Be Heard & Maximise Your Exposure Take Advantage of our Great Offers & Packages Please contact: Doug Pell Phone: 0404 301 333 Email: thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au Or check out our website at www.thelifestylemagazine.com.au Like Us On Facebook at: Gippsland The Lifestyle Magazine

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

Gippsland The Lifestyle Magazine in the General Interest Pavillion, Site No. GIP76 Date April 7 - April 10 Location Lardner Park 155 Burnt Store Road, Lardner

PROUDLY PRINTED IN AUSTRALIA

"Here at Mercure Hotel we are proud to present a new standard of accommodation, conferencing and dining facilities to the Warragul and Surrounding areas.

We look forward to welcoming you to the new Mercure Warragul on your next visit."

Warm Regards, Dale Bainbridge ‘Managing Director’

For Enquiries Phone (03) 5618 3500 or Email: reservations@mercurewarragul.com.au 23 Mason Street, WARRAGUL, Vic 3820

“We extend a warm invitation to all business clients frequently travelling throughout Gippsland. Make Warragul one of your stops and experience a new level of service.

Contact us directly for 'Corporate Rate' details.”

Sean Pennicard ‘Hotel Manager’

“MERCURE MEETINGS” WARRAGUL’S NEWEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS. Our facilities include a conference and boardroom fitted with “State of the Art” AV equipment.

We are dedicated to meeting our clients’ conferencing needs.

Contact us for further information. For All Enquiries Email: conference@mercurewarragul.com.au

editorial Welcome to Autumn and to Gippsland the Lifestyle!

In this issue, we have once again travelled throughout Gippsland to bring our readers a great variety of stories.

Cycling has come to the fore again as Inverloch welcomed the Stage 3 Herald Sun Tour riders into the town on February 6, on a glorious Saturday afternoon.

Crowds of over 5,000 people manned the streets and we were there to capture some of the highlights of this iconic event. Which in turn leads us into a wonderful feature on Olympic and Commonwealth Games contender Dan McConnell who hails from the small East Gippsland town of Bruthen. His story is more remarkable as his parents were also top athletes in their day, mother Jenny representing Australia in the Olympic Games at Munich in 1972.

The Tasmanian Tiger extinct since 1936 has apparently appeared in Venus Bay over Summer and our story on Tony Holgate, owner of the Venus Bay Caravan Park tells us of his chance meeting with "The Tiger".

Our new Gippsland Grooves writer Geoff Watt has done a beautiful piece on two wonderful performers that live locally at Cape Paterson, a story with a touch of serendipity but a wonderful showcase of history from the early Australian days of Pop Music in the 60's and 70’s and playing for the troops in Vietnam for two years.

Gippsland Makers is our theme for Autumn and Gippsland offers a rich tapestry of inventiveness and skill. Greg Mitchell is a maker, and his painstaking work in creating models, which is an art of patience and precise techniques and you can read his story along with other great makers we have here in Gippsland.

Our town feature is Omeo; this beautiful town nestled in the foothills of the Alpine ranges, a stepping-stone to the ski fields of Dinner Plain and Mt Hotham. Omeo has a rich history of gold mining, exploration and of course the mountain cattlemen; and 90 year old golfer Jack Howe, still playing 18 holes each week at the Omeo Golf Course.

It is a pleasure to bring to you our loyal readers, this magazine put together by passionate people who care about our region, and please support our clients as they too are living the life we all love, in Gippsland.

Doug and Maree Pell

Writers: Chris West, Lyn Skillern, Geoff Watt, Tegan Dawson, Wendy Morriss & Stuart Hay Contributors: Jan Bull, Ali Fullard, Chrissy Malm, Erin Miller, Laurie Collins, Craig Goodman, John Turner MAAPM Jim Radford, Trevor Stow & Glenn Curtis Cartoonist: Steve White Photographers: Wildwood Photography, Wendy Morriss, Tegan Dawson & Douglas Pell Advertising: Douglas Pell Editor: Maree Bradshaw Creative: Alex Smirnakos Printers: Graphic Impressions, 1 Miles Street, Mulgrave 3170 P: (03) 9574 9211 F: (03) 9574 8029 | W: www.gimpressions.com.au

index

Front Cover Image: Maremma dog, protector of the hens at Will Rankin’s Inverloch Free Range Eggs Farm. See pages 70 to 72 for this visionary story by Geoff Watt.

Courtesy of Wildwood Photogaphy & Inverloch Free Range Eggs

contents 10 14 16 18 20 – 21 30 – 32 38 40 42 – 44 48 – 49 54 – 55 56 – 58 59 61 62 – 63 64 66 – 67 70 – 72 74 – 75 78 82 – 84 86 - 88 89 90 – 91 94 – 95 96 98 – 101 102 – 104 108 112 – 114 116 – 117 122 – 125 126 – 127 133

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regular features Mount Baw Baw – Adventure Kids Festival Frankie’s Café Review Warragul Harness Racing Past Cup Race Highlights Dr Michael Spisto – Australia Day Award V8 Supercars – WD-40 SuperSprint Omeo – Experience the Magic of the High Country The Black Sheep Café & Wine Bar Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club – Performance Training Gippsland’s League – Grand Final Highlights | Statistics Gippsland Heritage Walk Morwell Mad Cowes Café & Foodstore – Local Gastronomic Icon Antartic Journey at the Nobbies Centre Phillip Island Experience Scenic Cruising with Wildlife Coast Cruises Tamaralyns Mirboo North The Magnetic Trinculo Dinner Plain – Family Winter Snow Experience Boating on the Blue Rock Dam with Crawford Marine Home on the Free Range at Inverloch Greg’s Traction On a Steam Engine Services to the Arts– Pat Waters Briagolong Citizen of the Year Helen Timbury – Art from the Linocut The Bunyip Beekeeper Natural Indulgence – Hair & Wellness products Harman Wines - Don’t Die Wondering Latrobe Valley Model Aero Club – Combat Flight & Scale The Tiny Teapot Funky Café Brothers In Arms: Manny & Peter Gelagotis Tinamba Hotel – 3AW ‘Pub of the Year’ Functions at Waterfront at Wattlepoint Retreat Tiger Watch – The Tassie Tiger The Old Pub at Boolarra Riding for Rio - Dan McConnell Highlights of Jayco Herald Sun Tour 2016 and Life Cycle Highlights of Coal Creek Geekfest 2016

thelifestyle autumn 2016

6 8 26 – 27 76 79 93 106 110 118 – 119 129 130 – 131 132 134 – 137 138 – 139 139 140 141 142 143 144 145

Index – Advertisers Editorial – Features Off the Hook – Bundara River Curtis Australia – Fine Jewellery Craftsmanship Ali’s Art Page The Press Cellars Wine Review –Dirty 3 & Harman Wines Nautica Restaurant & Bar – Shane Cole’s Fish Wings Recipe Gardening Tips – Grow Master Traralgon E-commerce Websites Wonthaggi Medical Group Autumn Events Guide Autumn in West Gippsland with Laurie Collins Gippsland Grooves – Mel & Kel – The Continuing Story Canine Corner Steve White Cartoon Zest for Life – Change is an Inside Job Autumn Crossword Puzzle Autumn Market Guide Chrissy’s Positive Autumn Horoscope Outlets – Where you can get a copy of the Magazine The Book Nook – Foster’s Little Bookshop

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Adventure

Kids Festival

AT MOUNT BAW BAW In 2006, American author Richard Louv coined the term ‘nature deficit disorder’ to describe the link between the lack of time spent outdoors or connecting with nature and issues such as childhood behavioural problems, obesity, attention disorders and depression.

The growing trend towards screen-based indoor entertainment is certainly contributing to the spread of ‘nature deficit disorder’. It would be difficult to overstate the importance of discovering the best of what nature has to offer by getting hands dirty, embracing the grass stains, and ‘learning by doing’.

The Australian Health Department sets out guidelines recommending children over two years spend less than two hours per day looking at screens. Despite this, a recent study by the University of Western Australia found that 45 per cent of eight year olds were exceeding this limit.

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At a time when Australian children are experiencing far greater levels of screen time than ever before, many parents are beginning to look for alternatives to indoor play and video games. Gippsland’s beautiful alpine environment could be one of the best places to introduce kids to the wonder of nature and the fun and excitement that can be had by getting out and immersing themselves in it. Nature’s playground is right on our own doorstep.

The Adventure Kids Festival, held over the Easter long weekend at Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort, might just be the perfect opportunity for a technology detox for young digital natives.

Children can run wild in a safe and supervised space.

Returning for its third year, the Adventure Kids Festival offers a wide range of activities and aims to encourage fun physical activity and a deeper connection with the great outdoors in Victorian families.

Taking place on 26-27 March, children aged four to 12 years old can participate in a variety of activities, learn new skills and gain an appreciation for nature. In Mt Baw Baw’s pristine alpine surrounds, there will not be a moment to miss the iPad or television with a schedule packed full of nature-based, outdoor entertainment.

Event Organiser Grant Seamer said that it is vitally important for Aussie kids to get out of the house, get moving and learn that the great outdoors is just as fun as video games, if not more.

“We have such a beautiful natural offering in the Gippsland region and it’s imperative that the next generation learns to enjoy it,” said Grant.

“The Adventure Kids Festival is specially designed to get kids moving and away from their screens in a safe, fun and encouraging atmosphere.”

Activities at the Mount Baw Baw Adventure Kids Festival will include trail running, obstacle courses, bushwalking, mountain biking, fly fishing, slack lining, bushcraft, orienteering and geocaching.

The trail running and mountain biking activities will run with both ‘maxi’ and ‘mini’ courses so children of any age, level of experience or confidence can participate. Children can go back to basics and learn how to navigate with a compass and a map in orienteering or go more high tech by using a GPS unit for geocaching.

Bushcraft will teach kids to use the natural resources around them to build bush shelters and stretchers, the perfect skills for a young budding adventurer.

Young circus enthusiasts can learn to walk a tightrope, with slack lining offering all the fun without the danger.

Tickets for the Adventure Kids Festival at Mount Baw Baw are $125.00.

For a break from physical activities, kids can learn about bush art, decorating didgeridoos with designs inspired by the surrounding nature or contributing to the festival mural.

Best of all, parents are invited to watch and encourage their children, or even join in on the fun at no extra cost.

Visit www.adventurekids.com.au for more information and to purchase tickets.

“We can’t wait to bring the Adventure Kids Festival back to Mount Baw Baw and inspire the next generation of outdoor adventurers!” said Grant.

The Adventure Kids Festival at Mount Baw Baw is the third instalment in a series of four festivals.

The final event will take place over the weekend of 2-3 April at Falls Creek.

thelifestyle autumn 2016

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EXPERIENCE THE WATERFRONT VIEWS IN THIS QUALITY DINING, FULLY LICENSED RESTAURANT.

HAVING A COMPREHENSIVE MENU THE BOATHOUSE OFFERS FRESH SEAFOOD, SUCCULENT STEAKS, VEGETARIAN MEALS AND CATERING FOR ALL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS.

THE BOATHOUSE PIZZA BAR & GRILL ALSO CATERS FOR LARGE GROUPS, WEDDINGS, PARTIES AND CONFERENCES.

9-13 Esplanade, Paynesville, 3880 Open 7 days Phone: (03) 5156 0071

FRANKIE’S CAFÉ review

It’s 6:30 in the morning and I’m already on my way home from the gym when there is one stop that I must make; Frankie’s Café. If you’re in a hurry for a coffee or whatever else then why wait? With two coffee makers going flat out you will have your coffee in no time at all.

Where else in a café-restaurant do you get such good table service? So just sit and if noone comes quick enough then give them a call.

They don’t mind. They are running. They are on the go and they will not always notice that you are sitting on the last table near the chocolate shop. If you are in a hurry then please let them know immediately because they can always accommodate you.

I am amazed how the place is already buzzing with many of the same faces - tradies, business owners, employees of any description, retirees, etc. - have made it their morning ritual to call in at Frankie’s. The kitchen staff are already in full swing with their all-day breakfast and lunch menu.

The lovely staff are the first faces that you encounter and often you are greeted at the large wooden door with a smiling face. They are always happy and very helpful. If you ever have a concern they will always go out of their way to relax you and satisfy your concern. Nothing seems too hard for them.

Listen to them say, “Hello,” to many customers, knowing their first names and often knowing what they are going to order before the customer opens their mouth. Some customers are in there every day.

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What a place to meet everyone! Large groups can form and after starting with just yourself you might find that you have 10 or so sitting with you. They don’t mind you rearranging the tables to fit you all in. The staff are STILL smiling.

So many choices of where to sit. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle you can sit near the PIT, where they make the coffee, or if you would like the quieter side then go to the two back rooms where you will often find people working on their laptops where they will not be disturbed. BUT NO, when the sun is out in Warragul you have to make the most of it, so outside you go and sit in the sun if you want or there is always shade if you are looking for it.

Get your coffee exactly how you want it. If you want a weaker or stronger coffee then please ask as nothing is too much of a problem. If you are not happy with anything then please let the staff know as they will happily cater for your every need.

And YES, “They Are Still Smiling.”

Words: Sean O’Reilly Photos: Wildwood Photography

CAFÉ-ESPRESSO BAR

FRANKIE’S CAFÉ ESPRESSO BAR IN WARRAGUL IS A GREAT PLACE TO MEET FRIENDS FOR COFFEE OR IF YOU ARE FEELING HUNGRY CHOOSE FROM OUR EXTENSIVE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH MENU. LOOK FOR OUR OTHER GREAT LOCATIONS IN BERWICK, CARRUM DOWNS + PAKENHAM

BERWICK

CARRUM DOWNS

WARRAGUL

PAKENHAM

Shop K01, Eden Rise Village, 95 O’Shea Road, Berwick, Vic 3806

Shop 4/335 Ballarto Road, Carrum Downs, Vic 3201

28 Victoria St, Warragul, Vic 3820

Shop 5 Lakeside Village East, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham, Vic 3810

Ph: (03) 8794 7128

Ph: (03) 9773 5774

Ph: (03) 5623 1196

Ph: (03) 5940 5914

Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 6:30am - 5:00pm Saturday: 7:00am - 3:00pm Sunday: 8:00am - 3:00pm

Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 6:30am - 5:00pm Saturday: 7:00am - 3:00pm Sunday: 8:00am - 3:00pm

Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 6:00am – 5:00pm Saturday & Sunday: 6:30am – 3:00pm

Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 6:30am - 5:00pm Saturday: 7:00am - 3:00pm Sunday: 8:00am - 3:00pm

www.frankiescafe.com.au Facebook | Instagram | Google+ | Twitter

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Hectorjayjay winner Downtowner Warragul Pacing Bowl Cup Fashions on the Field winners

2015 – photos by Madeleine Stuchbery

WARRAGUL HARNESS RACING CLUB HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST 2014 AND 2015 WARRAGUL PACING AND TROT TING CUP DAYS Held over the Easter Long Weekend. Experience the excitement of this popular race meeting.

To be run on Easter Sunday 27 March 2016

Eisenhower winner Eddie Evison Memorial Trotters Cup

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Hilltop Hustler, winner The Link Group Warragul Pacing Cup

2014 – photos by Amber Rhodes

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

DOWNTOWNER WARRAGUL PACING CUP

EASTER SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2016 LOGAN PARK, WARRAGUL

RACE MEETINGS Easter Sunday, 27 March Pacing and Trotting Cup 18 April & 2 May Ken Miller Memorial Heats & Final 20 June, McGrath Foundation Charity Day

FREEY ENTR

FA S H I O N S O N T H E F I E L D L I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T F U L L C AT E R I N G A N D TA B FA C I L I T I E S FREE KIDS ACTIVITIES

GA OPE TES N NOO 12 N

AUSTRALIA DAY 2016 LATROBE CITY AWARD Congratulations from everyone at Gippsland the Lifestyle to Community Radio 104.7 Gippsland FM presenter DR MICHAEL SPISTO on his achievement.

He received an Australia Day 2016 Latrobe City Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution and dedicated service to the community.

Dr Christine Lee receiving the Award on Michael’s behalf.

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

NEW V8 NISSAN PATROL. 298kW OF POWER.

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Just launched. With a class-leading* 5.6 litre V8, it's the most powerful Patrol ever. It also boasts groundbreaking technology and is the most luxurious 4x4 we've ever created. See it in full flight at nissan.com.au/patrol

WIGHTS NISSAN

Lot 1 Princes Highway, Traralgon (03) 51 757777 www.traralgonautomotivegroup.com.au LMCT 11191 *Premium paint available at addtional cost ‥For full program details of scheduled servicing program visit nissan.com.au/service.

New Vehicle Warranty expires 3 years from date of first registration or after 100,000 km (whichever comes first). Conditions apply. See nissan.com.au for more details.

Terms and conditions apply to Roadside Assistance, please visit nissan.com.au/roadsideassistance.

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thelifestyle spring 2014

WD-40

PHILLIP ISLAND The WD-40 Phillip Island SuperSprint is back for 2016, with new dates, a new format, new teams and incredible free trackside admission on Friday!

DJR Team Penske and Tim Slade replacing Coulthard at Brad Jones Racing. This is only a handful of the total 10 driver changes made over the off-season.

After being held in November for the last three years, V8 Supercars will hit the track at the beautiful Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit across the weekend of April 15-17 for an action packed weekend of motorsport thrills.

It’s double the V8 action with the V8 Supercars Dunlop Series returning to the Island for the first time in nearly a decade. Who will be the next young gun to forge a career in V8 Supercars? You could see the next Winterbottom or McLaughlin in action at the Island!

The off-season saw plenty of shuffling among seats, teams and sponsors. 2015 Championship winner Mark Winterbottom, Craig Lowndes, and Chaz Mostert will be in brand new colours for the 2016 Championship.

Shane van Gisbergen will make his debut with Red Bull Racing Australia at the Clipsal 500 Adelaide in March. Dave Reynolds, who was controversially pushed out of Championship contention at last year’s WD-40 Phillip Island SuperSprint, will return to Phillip Island with a new team, new sponsor and new manufacturer.

Other driver changes include James Moffat in a Volvo, Fabian Coulthard moving to an expanded

The 2015 WD-40 Phillip Island SuperSprint saw Red Bull Racing Australia’s Lowndes and Jamie Whincup and Wilson Security Racing GRM’s Scott McLaughlin stand atop the podium in all three races across the weekend.

Who will end up on top of the pack in 2016? The weekend at Phillip Island is sure to separate the contenders from the pretenders.

2015 Podium - McLaughlin, Whincup, Lowndes

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The biggest change for the 2016 event doesn’t come from the drivers. Trackside entry to the Circuit on Friday will be completely free. Race fans will be able to head to the track and check out all of the support categories on track on Friday – including the V8 Supercars stars of tomorrow in the Dunlop Series – for free!

Saturday and Sunday will see the ‘main game’ hit the track, with 26 V8 Supercars competing in a 120km race on Saturday and a 200km race on Sunday.

If all of that isn’t enough to get you salivating, the 2016 WD-40 Phillip Island SuperSprint will be the 500th round in the history of the Australian Touring Car/V8 Supercars Championship.

Disney Zone

SUPERSPRINT With Phillip Island being such an historic circuit, it’s fitting that history is made again alongside Bass Strait.

Head to Phillip Island across the weekend of April 15-17 for the WD-40 Phillip Island SuperSprint, for an exhilarating weekend of entertainment for the whole family. The Disney Zone will be returning to Phillip Island with Lightning McQueen, Mack the Transporter and plenty more from Disney/ Pixar’s Cars. Kids 12 and under receive free trackside admission with a paying adult, making it an affordable weekend out for the whole family.

Visit www.ticketek.com.au to pre-purchase your tickets and save.

Disappointed Reynolds

Words and Images supplied by V8 Supercars

thelifestyle autumn 2016

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Stony Creek Go-Karts is now well and truly one of the highlights of South Gippsland.

■ 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.

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.

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10am

For over 14 years now we've been creating delicious food and drink whilst listening to some cheeky conversations. Madcowes cafe & foodstore situated on the Esplanade in Cowes, Phillip Island is a fully licensed cafe. It's where great food and drink meet beautiful coastal views and friendships are strengthened through conversation and laughs.

We're open for breakfast and lunch daily so next time you're in town, why not drop in to MadCowes Cafe & Foodstore

MADCOWES CAFE & FOODSTORE 3/4 17 The Esplanade, Cowes, VIC, 3922 T:(03) 5952 2560 E: mad.cowes@bigpond.com Hours: Monday to Sunday from 6.30am to 3.00pm

madcowes

cafe & foodstore A crazy little kitchen that delivers on flavour.

With over 50 years of experience in their kitchen, they know a thing or two about creating an amazing dish. Their chefs have the freedom to create week after week. You can find these creations on their specials board. Fresh food is their mission. Priorities at Madcowes Cafe & Foodstore is ensuring the produce is as fresh as it gets.

Every week they visit the Queen Victoria Market and many primary producers to source the freshest possible produce available. It’s a long drive from Phillip Island and the day starts long before the sun comes up, but if you are as passionate about food as they are, then it’s well worth the journey.

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

Recently, I spent a delightful morning with a friend at Madcowes Cafe & Foodstore and was suitably impressed with our light lunch. The cafe was very busy, which is always a good indication of their popularity. What I particularly noticed was the warm greeting and attentive service.

Our coffees were delivered in minutes, along with our food, and the young gentleman was very pleasant and helpful.

No wonder patrons keep coming back to Madcowes Cafe & Foodstore, the food is fresh, the coffees taste great and the service is the best!

WIGHTS

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WIGHTS HYUNDAI

Lot 1 Princes Highway, Traralgon (03) 51 757777 www.traralgonautomotivegroup.com.au LMCT 11191

You can see how easy access is to the river - note the road nearby.

This is a lovely "fishy" pool.

BUNDARA Over the past few editions of this magazine we have been having a look at some of Gippsland’s best trout waters. This region hosts many great trout streams that flow off the Great Dividing Range. This autumn, let’s check out the Bundara River. Firstly let’s clear up the name.

Yes, the Bundara River is also the Bundarra River, the Bundara Mungee River and it is also the Bundarah River. Take your pick and don’t get into an argument.

RIVER

Once you enter the farmland you will experience one of the nicest little valleys that you will ever see. The valley is a mixture of small and larger farms. There are quite a few ‘Collins Street farmers’ who have built the dream home in this lovely area. The road follows the river for about 8-10 kms before finally ending at a gate and a private road.

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

For the angler this means that you can be dropped off at one corner, fish to the next corner and leapfrog your fishing partner. If on your own, you can walk back to your vehicle along the road. Too easy!

As this river flows off the snow-covered mountains early in the season, the water temperature is usually quite low on opening morning. Typically it is around four degrees.

This opening morning I measured it at only two degrees following a recent late fall of snow a couple of days before the opening. At this time of year the best method of attracting a trout is to drift a humble worm downstream perhaps with a split shot or two attached. By late spring the river hits its peak. Terrestrial beetles and bugs of all shapes and sizes make an appearance. This is when the fly fishermen come into their own.

A Royal Wulff or Humpy can be deadly.

The Bundara River commences its journey flowing off Mt Bundara, situated somewhere between Mt Hotham and Falls Creek. At this point it is about 4500 feet in altitude. As it descends, it eventually enters the Mitta River at a little over 2000 feet. It flows in an easterly direction through mainly National Park, which boasts some of the more inaccessible country in the state before emerging into the Bundara Valley at Callaghan’s. The total length of the river is about 30kms so it is not a long river by any means. This area from Callaghan’s, downstream to where the Bundara enters the Mitta, is the stretch that is of interest to us trout fishermen.

The Bundara Valley is accessed off the Omeo Highway at the Blue Duck. The turnoff itself is only a “stone’s throw” from the hotel. This gravel road leads through some lightly timbered bush, past numerous houses built “in the bush” before entering the grassy farming country of the Bundara Valley.

away from the road for a short while but soon returns to it.

This 8-10 km stretch is a wonderful little fishery.

It holds a good head of brown trout that are mostly less than one pound, however, each season numerous monsters of two pound plus turn up. The beauty of this river in this area is the access to the water. The gravel road that we have spoken about follows the river closely for the entire distance. The river tends to meander

As the season progresses, grasshoppers start to turn up, beginning about Christmas and normally continuing until mid-autumn. So long as there is a reasonable flow in the river, fishing can be spectacular during hopper time. Fly fishermen love it and the locals are normally about using the real thing.

This little trout stream can be a lifesaver during periods of heavy rain. When all other rivers in the area are high and dirty and unfishable, the

A bait fisherman trying his luck on opening weekend. He had a bunch of 3 worms and a light split shot fixed to the line a short distance from the hook. He was casting upstream and allowing the worms to trundle downstream along the bottom.

This is a great way to fish when the water is high and cold. The fish tend to sit near the bottom and will not travel far to get a feed. After each cast he moved upstream a few steps.

Those Herefords are not shy of the camera.

The Bundara Valley is a mixture of farming, fishing and houses, all with a great view.

This is the lower Bundara River just upstream of where it enters the Mitta River. Yes, you can fish this pocket water but it is hard going and a lot more fun further upstream.

Bundara is normally clear and fishable. This is because it basically flows through native bush and gets very little erosion washed into it. Thus the water remains pretty clear.

The Bundara River is about a five-hour drive from Melbourne. It has excellent bush camping facilities nearby at the mouth of its entry into the Mitta River and also at the Cobungra River downstream of the bridge. Both areas have good quality bush toilets and constructed fireplaces.

Also nearby is the famous Blue Duck Hotel.

The hotel offers good accommodation as well as a cold beer. We stopped there for lunch on opening day and it was delicious. We sat on the veranda with a Cascade Light, fish, chips and salad enjoying the September sun whilst we watched the Cobungra River flow by. Their evening meals are also highly recommended.

The nearest town to the Bundara River is Omeo, which is about half an hour drive away.

If you are looking to fish a mountain stream with good access, great views and pretty fair fishing, take a look at the Bundara.

The Bundara River flows through some pretty country.

Even the ducks seem to be enjoying the area.

Photographs by Trevor Stow

thelifestyle autumn 2016

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thelifestyle summer 2015-16

GOLDEN AGE HOTEL MOTEL OMEO OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • A La Carte Menu | Gluten Free Menu available • Joker Poker Friday nights 13 Motel Style Units • 2 Luxury Spa Units • 6 Hotel Style Rooms The Golden Age provides for all tastes.

Great Coffee. Great Place. Great Food.

Great Beer.

Bar Open: 11.30am – 11.00pm Restaurant Open: Lunch: 12.00pm – 2.30pm | Dinner: 6.00pm – 8.30pm GOLDEN AGE HOTEL MOTEL OMEO 189 DAY AVENUE, OMEO 3898

Tel: (03) 5159 1344 Fax: (03) 5159 1305 Web: www.goldenageomeo.com.au Email: goldenageomeo@gmail.com

L a b o u r D ay Week e n d – S at u r d ay, M a r c h 1 2 , 2 0 1 6

HEAD TO THE HIGH COUNTRY FOR AN ACTION-PACKED LABOUR DAY LONG WEEKEND!

Glen Valley

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FASHIONS ON THE FIELD FREE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE KIDS LIVE BAND ‘NERVOUS REX’ playing at the Benambra Hotel from 8pm

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6 TROPHY RACES Melbourne races televised on-course betting.

Shuttle bus from Swift’s Creek Store (11am), Omeo Hilltop Hotel (11.30am), Benambra Hotel (12 noon) Call Rod 0428 591 377

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EXPERIENCE PICNIC RACING AT ITS BEST at this unique racecourse on the Omeo High Plains. With 6 trophy races and a wide range of side attractions, the Hinnomunjie Races is a great family day out.

Gates open at 11am

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Further enquiries: contact Tam 0427 849 839 w w w. h i n n o m u n j i e r a c e s . c o m . a u

Ensay

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OMEO

Experience the Magic of the High Country The small town of Omeo is situated in northeast Victoria on the edge of the Snowy Mountains along the Great Alpine Road, east of Mount Hotham; henceforth this pioneering mountain village has beautiful hilltop landscapes and is renowned for its gold mining history, high country cattle pastures and significant bygone buildings. The name itself is derived from the Aboriginal word for mountains or hills.

It is a service centre for neighbouring communities such as Anglers Rest, Hinnomunjie, Cobungra, Tongio, Ensay, Swifts Creek, Cassilis, and Benambra. The alpine resorts of Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham, which are popular all year round, are located less than an hour’s drive west of Omeo.

History

Oriental Claims

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

In 1834, Austrian born naturalist/zoologist John Lhotsky was the first recounted sighting

by Europeans of the plains of Omeo from the southern alps. As early as 1835, the region was first visited by stockmen who drove their stock through the area. Then in 1845 gold was found in the Livingstone Creek, which runs through Omeo, and this attracted many hopeful diggers and triggered the population to flourish. Alluvial deposits of gold were found in tributaries of the Creek and at the end of 1854, hundreds of men were camped along

its banks digging for gold. By 1855 most of the shallow alluvial gold had been mined and the process of hydro sluicing was introduced to the Omeo goldfields.

By 1901, Omeo was at its peak with a population of 9400. Businesses began to establish themselves and produced a roaring trade, thereby banks were founded – in 1889, the Colonial Bank of Australia and in 1892, the Commercial Bank. Post and telegraph office and courthouse were completed in 1891 and 1893 and remain a unique design by architect A.J. MacDonald (Walter Burley Griffin’s Assistant in the designing of Canberra).

Further on up the hill there is the log gaol, which was completed in 1858, and comprises of squared, logs in walls, floor and ceiling. The last prisoner to use the gaol was in 1981. In 1984 they were restored along with exercise yard and sentry lookout and today they are viewed by many a tourist.

Black Friday fires in early 1939 ripped through Omeo, destroying the hospital, the Golden Age Hotel, twenty houses and eleven shops, and the local fire brigade spent 28 days fighting the fires at Swifts Creek. It was reported only one person died – a station hand by the name of Ernest Richards who was assailed by the flames north of Bairnsdale when trying to reach his wife and newborn child, who waited safely in Omeo.

Today At the last census the population was approximately 487. The town has a variety of services including a hospital, chemist, transport services, supermarket, hardware supplies, post office, shire services, banking, engineering and mechanical, hotels, cafes – a great range of food and accommodation outlets.

The Omeo Primary School boasts a long history of providing education in the region. It is the oldest school in the area and was established in 1866 and will celebrate its 150th anniversary on the Queen’s Birthday weekend in June this year.

The town hosts a range of events including the Hinnomunjie Picnic Races on Saturday of Labour Day Weekend and Mountain Calf Sales in March; Easter Saturday Rodeo with the town market held at the courthouse gardens before the event; Geebung Polo at Dinner Plain on Easter Sunday; Caravan & RV Muster and Agricultural Show in November.

Agriculture has been the main employment base of the district with high quality cattle and sheep being produced. Throughout the gold rush era of the 1850s the area experienced a significant increase in activity that has left a colourful history, which has helped develop today’s tourist industry.

Omeo-Benambra Football Club

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Attractions include • A.M. Pearson Historic Park & Museum open daily 10-2pm from Day Avenue to Livingstone Creek – with heritage listed buildings: - Court House - Police Log Gaol • -

Livingstone Creek Park: Walking Tracks Rotunda Swimming area in a section of the creek

• Oriental Claims Historic Area (gold mining history) a few kilometres west has caves, mines and remnants of gold sluicing operation days and several walking tracks with a lookout and BBQ facilities beside Dry Gully Creek • German Cuckoo Clock Shop which displays a wide range of handcrafted cuckoo clocks • Providing Excellent Accommodation and Food, are: Omeo Bank House built in 1889 with beautifully renovated rooms; the Golden Age Hotel Motel; the Hilltop Hotel which was built in 1938 and was once the Omeo Hospital when the main hospital burnt down and has a beautiful view of Omeo and provides comfortable and affordable lodging; The Blue Duck Inn where you can also experience the pleasures of outdoor activities such as fly-fishing, horse riding, bushwalking, bird watching, swimming and mountain biking; Omeo Motel only 40 minutes away from the ski fields and Benambra Hotel set in the High Plains about a 20 minute drive from Omeo • White Water Rafting or Trout Fishing on the Mitta Mitta or Cobungra Rivers • Omeo Golf Club has an attractive 9 Hole grassed green golf course, just 5 minutes from the town centre.

• Tambo Valley Golf Club located between Omeo and Swifts Creek, it offers 9 holes set within a mature pine plantation in a narrow valley • Ensay Winery and Vineyard nestled in the charming hills of the Tambo River Valley south of Omeo • Nullamunjie Olive Farm situated on the lower slopes of Mount Stawell on the banks of the Tambo River at Tongio • Dinner Plain Alpine village just 44 kilometres from Omeo offering an extensive collection of cross country trails and in the warmer months good fishing, bushwalking and bike riding trails and is a great place to take the kids tobogganing with its great beginners’ slopes, and • Mount Hotham located in the Alpine National Park, which provides skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding or simply relaxing.

Whether you are looking for adventure, enjoyment, getting back to nature or experiencing the magic of the high country, or the wonders of snow-filled attractions; be it a day, weekend or a life change, the Omeo region offers it all.

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

OMEO

Jack Howe 90yr old golfer

Experience the Magic of the High Country

Omeo German Cuckoo Clock Shop

OMEO RURAL AND HARDWARE SUPPLIES

GIFTWARE SHOP

FOR ALL YOUR HARDWARE NEEDS

Fertiliser Stock Feed Pet Food Fencing Agronomy Equipment Rural Merchandise Watering Equipment

This charming Giftware shop displaying genuine beautifully carved cuckoo clocks from the Black Forest and Alps of Germany and has a great selection of souvenirs and ornaments and overlooks the garden and down the hill to the main street of Omeo.

TRADING HOURS: Mon-Fri 7.00am – 5.30pm Saturday 7.00am – 12.30pm

03 5159 1271

03 5159 1552 OPEN: Daily 9.30am-5.30pm | 199 Day Ave, Omeo VIC 3898

164 Day Avenue, Omeo, VIC 3898

Grinter Transport offers a general freight service and an overnight service from Melbourne to as far as East Gippsland.

We have vehicles ranging from Ute's and Vans, 6 to 12 tonne Taut-liners with tailgates through to 22 pallet Taut-liners and Drop Decks and Trailers that can cart heavy machinery.

Locally based third generation family owned business.

Depots in Bairnsdale, Omeo and Melbourne.

Have freight contract across Victoria that can pick-up or deliver to or from East Gippsland.

Towns we go to DAILY are: Bairnsdale, Omeo, Orbost, Marlo, Paynesville, Bruthen, Lake Entrance, Buchan and Melbourne.

TWICE WEEKLY: Mallacoota and Cann River

• PAYNESVILLE • LAKES ENTRANCE • • ORBOST • CANN RIVER • • MALLACOOTA • OMEO • • BAIRNSDALE • SALE • • MORWELL • MELBOURNE •

Contact Details 16 Lawless Street, Bairnsdale VIC 3875 Craig Grinter 0418 516 857 Fax (03) 5152 3329 Email bhaul@bigpond.net.au thelifestyle autumn 2016

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2009 Licensed Sub-Branch of the Year

Corner of Smith Street & Michael Place Leongatha

New Members Welcome Reciprocal rights with RSLs in Victoria, South Australia & Tasmania Members Discounts on meals and drinks 2 Function Rooms available Fantastic Members nights every Thursday and Friday Members Draw $800-$1000 to be won Members Happy Hour Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere ½ Serve Meals, Gluten Free, Kids Menu all available Reservations required for most nights of the week Seniors Meals Monday to Friday now available

TRADING HOURS EASTER & ANZAC DAY GOOD FRIDAY 25TH MARCH CLOSED EASTER SATURDAY 12.00 PM – MIDNIGHT EASTER SUNDAY 12.00 PM - 8.00 PM EASTER MONDAY 12.00 PM – 8.00 PM ANZAC DAY MONDAY 25TH APRIL – 12.00 PM – 10.00 PM NORMAL TRADING HOURS SUN 12 NOON - 10PM MON 10AM - 10PM TUE 10AM - 11PM WED 10AM - 11PM THU 10AM - MIDNIGHT FRI 10AM - MIDNIGHT SAT 10AM - MIDNIGHT

BOOK YOUR FUNCTION TODAY BOOK YOUR FUNCTION TODAY WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS

ANNIVERSARIES, ANY SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES, ANY SPECIAL WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS, OCCASION CATERED FOR BUSINESS OCCASION CATERED FOR BUSINESS BREAKFASTS SEMINARS BREAKFASTS SEMINARS CALL RICKY TO ORGANISE A QUOTE!

CALL RICKY TO ORGANISE A QUOTE!

CONTACTS OFFICE: 5662 2012 RECEPTION: 5662 2747 BISTRO: 5662 4487 www.l eo ng athars l .com. au Find us on Facebook

thelifestyle spring 2013

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REOPENING F I N E D I N I N G R E S TA U R A N T 2 5 F E B R U A R Y

NEW CHEF

|

NEW MENU

|

NEW IDEAS

B O O K Y O U R TA B L E N O W P H O N E : 5 6 7 4 1 4 3 2 O P E N : T H U R S D AY - S U N D AY I nv e r loch Esp la na de H o t el 1 A ’ B e c ke t t S t re e t , I nv er lo c h 3 9 9 6 (0 3 ) 5 6 7 4 1 4 3 2 w w w. invyes py.c o m .au

Venue: Fox Sports | TAB Racing | Music • Thirsty Camel Bottle Shop and Drive Through • Excellent Sports Bar and Entertainment Family Bistro Open 7 Days + Alfresco Dining • Meal Promotions • The “G Room” for casual private parties or small conferences/meetings and quieter dining • elegant restaurant for your Special Occasion, Birthdays, Engagements, • Captain’s Lounge Restaurant, anWeddings and Graduation Dinners.

Dylan Clark has been appointed the new Managing Director of the Inverloch Esplanade Hotel bringing new enthusiasm to the already successful and popular hotel that has been established for over 100 years.

New Executive Chef Steve Finner-Larsen is overseeing the cuisine in all areas of the hotel.

HOURS Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

LUNCH 11.00am - 10.00pm 10.00am - Late 10.00am - Late 11.00am - 10.00pm

Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

DINNER 12.00 - 2.00pm 12.00 - 2.00pm 12.00 - 5.00pm 12.00 - 2.30pm

Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

I nv e r loc h E spla na de Hot e l 1 A’Be c k e t t S t re e t , I nv e r loc h 3996 ( 03) 5674 1432 w w w.inv y e spy.c om.a u

6.00pm - 8.00pm 6.00pm - 8.30pm 5.30pm - 8.30pm 6.00pm - 8.00pm

The Black Sheep CafĂŠ & Wine Bar

The Black Sheep Cafe and Wine Bar is getting quite a name as being the perfect place for people to unwind after work. A modern spacious interior with ample seating for larger groups, it still has enough space and atmosphere for a quiet conversation. An outdoor deck offers another fine seating option on a sunny day.

The Black Sheep Cafe & Wine Bar is owned and operated by David and Darlene Liebelt and their son Rohan, who is also the head chef (assisted by second chef Kate).

"We chose the name because we wanted to offer something unique in the area. I put slight twists on modern food making us a little different to other cafes in the area - we are pushing the boundaries a little."

Sheep actually transforms into a Tapas Wine Bar (with key main specials) in the evenings, which certainly adds vibrancy to the local area. They also have a $12 Pizza night every Thursday and a Happy Hour with free Bar Snacks every Friday night between 5 p.m. - 7p.m.

we prepare everything in-house. We are looking at producing our own jams and chutneys in the quieter winter months to offer more choice and add to the available food produced locally" says Chef Rohan.

"We want The Black Sheep to be a local watering hole for locals to come and unwind after a long day’s work. Our passion is to showcase local food, which means the menu is seasonal and

Enjoy the acoustic music with friends on Friday evenings over Tapas or a Pizza.

David Liebelt is the wine connoisseur and oversees an extensive and ever-growing wine list, which also features the best locally produced wines. Beers from smaller boutique breweries such as Phillip Island's Rusty Water Brewery and Mornington Peninsula Brewery are also served.

With a comprehensive international menu, The Black Sheep Cafe and Wine Bar is a slice of Melbourne sophistication here in Inverloch.

A nationally awarded and unique Black Sheep Coffee Blend is available in-house. The quality menu is both creative and extensive, satisfying both those after something light or those desiring something more substantial. The Black

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Words: Geoff Watt Photos: Wildwood Photography

OPEN 6 days a week for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner from 7am till late (closed Sunday night and Tuesday)

Breakfast : 7am till 12pm Offers all the usual fare with enhancements such as house cured Jerk Ham and beans or Yoghurt pannacotta and house made granola.

Lunch : 12 till 3pm A good range of Sandwiches, Salads and Souvlaki and Pasta, including the Vego Burger 5pm till late Pizzas are available – dine in or take away.

Extensive selection of Tapas as well as special Mains that change daily.

All cakes and desserts made in-house with Coffee that has been sourced from Brazil, roasted weekly.

The Black Sheep Café & Wine Bar 8 Williams Street INVERLOCH 3996 Email: blacksheepcafe@outlook.com | Find us on Facebook | RESERVATIONS 5674 2129

Debra Fowles 10A’Beckett Street, Inverloch 3996 Telephone: (03) 5674 1716

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY& LOTTO

31 Murray Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 1256 Hours: Monday to Friday 6.30am to 5.30pm | Saturday 6.30am to 2.30pm | Sunday & Public Holidays Closed thelifestyle autumn 2016

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PERFORMANCE TRAINING | BROADBEACH INVERLOCH HEALTH CLUB

I had never been athletic or interested in exercise or cared about what I ate or how much alcohol I drank. In fact, I had never really spent much time looking after myself at all. I was a little overweight, unfit, a tradesman and having a large amount of trouble with my lower back. After many many visits to my Osteopath looking for a quick fix, I was diagnosed with unrepairable lumbar degenerative disc disease at level L4 – L5 and L5 – S1.

I started biking and walking with my intentions to repair the damages I had caused, but it was too late. My surgeon recommended hybrid surgery, an artificial disk replacement at L4 – L5 and an anterior lumber interbody fusion at L5 – S1 performed from the stomach. Late 2011 the surgery was performed and after a couple of days on my back I got up and started walking.

Walking for a number of months I then started seeing a physiotherapist who programed some basic at home exercises to gain some basic strength. Six months on I started one on one Pilates training which I continued with for a further six months. Keen to get fit and strong

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

I joined a 6:00am small training group focusing on resistance training, which I quickly grew to love. This introduced me to a new perspective of wellness and much improved my health and attitude. Mid 2014 I changed gyms and joined Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club, previously named I Choose Awesome. I continued with my resistance training and my desire to get fitter and stronger.

I met Ben Metherall, General Manager and Performance Trainer at Broadbeach Inverloch early 2015 along with his dedicated staff. We started a performance training program that quickly become my weekly routine to which I very much look forward to. Ben is positive, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and very effective and will not take no for an answer. He makes every session worthwhile, rewarding and even fun. Ben has constructed an effective exercise regimen around my abilities and comes up with work-arounds and accommodations as necessary.

He is a true professional and is very knowledgeable about nutrition and exercise. I

really appreciate that he is very supportive and encouraging to me despite my clumbsiness.

I have expanded my knowledge on healthy eating, exercise, and strength training and improved my self-confidence as well as physical fitness. This was certainly one of the best personal investments I have made for my future.

I strongly recommend Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club and the Performance Training program to anyone interested in improving their quality and experience of life. Ben, Tom and Liz have been fantastic to me and I appreciate their efforts in every way and I have recently registered for my first Marathon.

Darren Chandler

The iconic Fish Creek Hotel (1939) is a magnificently imposing Art Deco building located in the heart of Fish Creek.

Eight comfortable upstairs bedrooms and nine motel units provide accommodation. With the Great Southern Rail Trail and art galleries on its doorstep, award winning wineries nearby and only 25 minutes from the gates of Wilson’s Promontory, it is ideally located as your accommodation base.

The Fish Creek Hotel ArtSpaces: a new exhibition space in the Art hub of Fish Creek featuring local artists is commencing here at the hotel with the official launch at 3.00pm on 6th December 2015.

The Bistro features fabulous food with an extensive menu of fresh local and seasonal produce that highlights the best Gippsland has to offer. Bottles of sparkling along with reds and whites from wineries across Gippsland being a specialty. Bookings are advisable.

B I S T R O O P E N 7 DAYS B R E A K FA S T Sat - Sun: 7.30am - 9.30am Holiday Season: 7 days a week LUNCH Mon – Fri: Midday – 2pm Sat – Sun: Midday – 2.30pm DINNER Sun – Thur: 5.45pm – 8.30pm Fri – Sat: 5.45pm – 8.30pm BAR OPEN

THE

FISH CREEK HOTEL

1 Old Waratah Rd, FISH CREEK, Vic 3959

Mon – Fri: 11.30am till late Sat – Sun: 11am till late

(03) 5683 2404 www.fishcreekhotel.com.au

5 Lindsey Close, Inverloch 3996 Tel: (03) 5674 6577 Email: info@inverlochhealthclub.com.au www.inverlochhealthclub.com.au Follow Us on Facebook

Ben Metherall

OPERATING HOURS 6am-8pm Mon- Thursday 6am-7pm Friday 8am-12noon Sat-Sun

Tom Taylor

Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club is a boutique facility, with a fully equipped gym, 12m indoor heated pool, steam room, outdoor pool and tennis court. We boast a comprehensive group exercise timetable and personal training options, run by a passionate group of fitness professionals.

Ben Metherall, a 13-year veteran of the industry, with a passion for movement and training small groups, manages the facility. Supported by young gun, Tom Taylor, who approaches exercise with an infectious enthusiasm and Josie Edmonds, whose background in alternative therapies is the perfect complement to her fitness knowledge.

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GIPPSLAND’S LEAGUE Traralgon Seniors Premiers

From humble origins in the early 19th century to the glory days of the mighty Latrobe Valley Football League and the present-day incarnation, the TRFM Gippsland League has assumed many shapes, sizes and identities throughout its proud history.

Through it all, one constant remains – its status as the premier football and netball competition in Gippsland – a reputation the league board is determined to uphold.

“It’s a title that is thrust upon us by AFL Victoria and our history, but it’s one we felt the league perhaps wasn't living up to as best it could,” TRFM Gippsland League chair Greg Maidment said.

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

The 2015 grand final epitomised that progression.

“We need to pride ourselves on providing the best facilities, coaches, playing standard and stage for footballers and netballers in our region to develop and perform and we believe we are on the right path to achieving that.”

A shift in administration and a major sponsorship and broadcast agreement with Traralgon-based radio station TRFM has proved just the tonic to re-invigorate the league’s health and public profile.

In front of a record crowd, Traralgon overcame minor premier Leongatha in a tense and intriguing battle at Traralgon Recreation Reserve.

It was a day that captured national media attention through the inspirational journey of Beau Vernon, who led the Parrots to a grand final in his first season as coach and just three years after an on-field collision left him a quadriplegic.

Essendon vice-captain, Dyson Heppell and four-time Hawthorn premiership player, Jarryd Roughead watched on as their beloved hometown club fell short in its bid for a fairytale flag.

The Leongatha pair are among a host of AFL stars, including current club captains Scott Pendlebury (Sale), Robert Murphy (Warragul) and Brendon Goddard (Traralgon), to have progressed through the Gippsland League on their way to the highest level.

Such success stories form but a small part of TRFM Gippsland League folklore.

“We had some great stories come out of last season,” Maidment said.

“As well as Beau, there was Traralgon, who won a premiership with a side made up almost entirely of graduates from their junior ranks.

“Then you had Drouin, who didn’t win a game in 2014 but nearly played finals last year and their coach Bob McCallum was the first ruckman in nearly 20 years to win the Trood Award and Rodda Medal.”

On the netball court, Traralgon secured an historic football-netball premiership double, with its A-grade netball side defeating Drouin in the season decider, while the strength of the TRFM Gippsland League netball competition was most evident on the representative scene.

The league’s open team not only won the Eastern Regional State League, but also went on to be crowned state champion with victory

at the Netball Victoria Regional State League Champions Challenge.

The successful introduction of a women’s football team – the Gippsland Galaxy – provided further evidence of the TRFM Gippsland League’s role as a leader in the Gippsland sporting community.

In an incredible success story, the Galaxy won the Victorian Women’s Football League (VWFL) division five east premiership at the first attempt and had five of its players – Sarah Jolly, Kim Cunico, Tayla Tatterson, Danni Pearce and Lisa Whittaker – invited to join the inaugural AFL Victoria women’s academy.

Final Scores of GFL 2015 Grand Final

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Looking ahead to 2016, Traralgon again shapes as a contender, with the addition of Thorpdaleraised ex-Essendon dynamo Jason Winderlich boosting the Maroons’ hopes for back-to-back football flags.

Leongatha will be steeled to go one step further, while four clubs – Bairnsdale, Moe, Sale and Wonthaggi Power – have appointed new coaches as they bid to close the gap to the top.

With 10 clubs from Gippsland’s most populated towns, stretching from Drouin in the west to Bairnsdale in the east, the TRFM Gippsland League embodies the wide-reaching and diverse region it represents.

“There are great rivalries right across our league from Leongatha and Wonthaggi in the south to Warragul and Drouin in the west, Sale versus Maffra in the East and everything in between,” Maidment said.

“It truly is Gippsland’s league.”

Maffra Reserves Premiers

STATISTICS YEAR SENIOR PREMIER

SENIOR RUNNER-UP

A-GRADE PREMIER A-GRADE RUNNER-UP

2015 TRARALGON 2014 MORWELL 2013 MORWELL 2012 SALE 2011 TRARALGON 2010 MAFFRA 2009 MAFFRA 2008 SALE 2007 MAFFRA 2006 MAFFRA 2005 TRARALGON

LEONGATHA WONTHAGGI POWER SALE MAFFRA DROUIN DROUIN TRARALGON MORWELL SALE SALE MAFFRA

TRARALGON MORWELL SALE LEONGATHA DROUIN DROUIN TRARALGON DROUIN DROUIN WARRAGUL DROUIN

Traralgon U18s Premiers

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

DROUIN SALE LEONGATHA SALE TRARALGON LEONGATHA DROUIN LEONGATHA WARRAGUL DROUIN TRARALGON

Traralgon Football and Netball Premiers

Gippsland League Morwell Recreation Reserve | Morwell | VIC 3840 - PO Box 853 | Traralgon | Victoria 3844 (03) 5134 8733 www.gl.vcfl.com.au

Gippsland

Coffee Cab

Your mobile coffee cab Proudly Supporting Our Community SERVING ALL OF GIPPSLAND

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PROFFESIONAL SERVICE

Join us at our country Club Hotel and enjoy all that is available: • Public Bar • Glasshouse Bistro • Palms Courtyard • Function Rooms • Accommodation • • Courtesy Bus • The Cellar Door Tapas Bar • Music and Entertainment • TAB and Bottle Shop • • Secure overnight bike parking (for both motor and push bikes) •

Weekly Glasshouse Bistro Specials Monday is Pasta night Tuesday is Steak night Wednesday is Parmalicious Parma night Thursday is Ribs & Bibs Courtesy bus available on Fridays & Saturdays 5:30-11pm other times by arrangement

Peter, Jessica and our great team welcome you to the historic and magnificent venue that is the Yarram Club Hotel. We aim to create a warm, friendly, relaxing and enjoyable environment, capitalising on personal service, with consistent offerings appealing to both locals and visitors to the area.

For bookings and enquiries Yarram Club Hotel 287 Commercial Road, Yarram, Vic, 3971 Phone: 03 5182 5027 Email: contact@yarramclubhotel.com.au yarramclubhotel.com.au Visit us on Facebook for upcoming specials, live music dates and events

The Gippsland A World-Class Presentation

The Heritage Walk located in Morwell has it all. Every aspect of our region’s history is displayed and we can only imagine how much time it took to put this wonderful feature together.

So what is the Gippsland Heritage Walk? Where is the Gippsland Heritage Walk and why is it important to all Gippslanders?

The Gippsland Heritage Walk is a walking track along which a series of information panels have been placed to tell the story of Gippsland’s past in images and text. The walk is located in Morwell at Kernot Park. It is important to Gippslanders because for the first time the region’s heritage is on display in one place in a format that is accessible to people of different ages and different backgrounds.

The Walk forms part of an historic precinct at the lake near Kernot Hall. The first feature in this complex was the Gippsland Immigration Wall of Recognition, which was built by the Latrobe City in Kernot Park. The wall was constructed in 2007 to give recognition to the many immigrants who came to

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Gippsland and contributed to its development. The area then became known as Gippsland Immigration Park. Following the success of the Immigration Wall the Immigration Park Committee formed the idea of developing The Gippsland Heritage Walk. The idea was to create a pathway around the lake with a number of stations set up along the path. At each station, panels giving information on the history of the Gippsland region would be constructed. All areas of Gippsland from Western Port to Mallacoota are represented.

The Committee, comprising a small group of volunteers, was fortunate to have the support of Latrobe City and Regional Development Victoria.

They provided the funds in the form of a grant to cover some of the major costs. By the end of the planning stage, the committee decided on 12 stations and 72 panels. With funds available the real work began.

The pathway only ran along the north side of the lake so the first task was to extend this to go all the way around the lake. The stations were then designed

to mirror the design of the Immigration Wall using semi-circular upright panels set on a granite base.

It was then decided the have an archway mark the beginning and end of the walk. This was constructed by committee members in a workshop and then set up at the site. Wisteria and roses were planted to make the arch more attractive.

While the work at the site was being undertaken, members of the committee visited the historical societies and museums in the Gippsland region to collect images and information. Institutions and groups such as the State Library, The Police Museum, Victorian Parliamentary Library and the Centre for Gippsland Studies were also contacted for contributions.

The information collected was categorized into themes with each station highlighting a different aspect of Gippsland history. The first set of panels show the history of the traditional owners of Gippsland, the Gunaikurnai people, and the themes run in roughly chronological order through to the 1970s.

Heritage Walk

Lyn Skillern

Of Our Region’s Unique History Text was written for each panel and the images related to that topic selected. Gippsland historian Graham Goulding, who is also a member of the Immigration Park Committee, collated the information and wrote the text. The text and images were given to the graphic artist who designed the panels. Finally the panels were completed and installed.

The panels on the Gunaikurnai people tell us about the culture and lifestyle of the tribes who lived in our region and flourished for thousand of years before their land was taken from them. The story of explorers Angus McMillan and Paul Strzelecki (who actually named Gippsland) is told and Alfred William Howitt who studied the region’s indigenous people, geology and botany has finally been given due credit. Early settlers such as Patrick Cody Buckley (Yarram area), Lachlan Macalister (Boisdale) and the MacFarlane Brothers (Heyfield) are also mentioned.

From the squatter times the panels move on to the tough life of the selectors in the 1870s and 1880s.

Well-selected photographs beautifully capture life in the gold mining communities of the Gippsland

mountains. Walhalla with its unique history has a panel of its own.

The mining of coal, both black and brown, is something that stands out as an activity clearly associated with Gippsland. The black coal mines at Wonthaggi and in the Korumburra area provided a vital resource to the State of Victoria and this aspect of our history is shown on one panel. Where would Victoria be without brown coal mining and the State Electicity Commission? So important was the Latrobe Valley as an energy source that it required several panels to cover this very significant part of our history.

Transport is of course essential to the development of a region and the panels tell the story of the coastal shipping, roads and bridges, railways and even air travel. There is a wonderful table listing all of Gippsland railways with their opening and in many cases closing dates.

Education (primary, secondary and tertiary), Religion, Sport, Police and Courts, Government, Immigration and Population statistics.

Over 70 groups and individuals assisted with the project in a variety of ways and the heritage walk is a credit to them all. When the walk was completed, the committee decided that a book would help to promote the project and this was completed in time for the opening of the walk on November 8th 2015 by the Minister for Regional Development. The book called “A Walk Through Gippsland History” includes the information provided on the panels and is a great reference on our region’s past.

The beautiful park at Morwell is well worth a visit and all Gippslanders will find a visit worth the effort.

Thank you to Graham Goulding for providing information on the development of the Walk.

The other subjects covered with impressive images and text are: Homes and Home Duties, Leisure,

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TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB

Our bistro is open 7 days a week lunch and dinner. Ensure to book to avoid disappointment.

TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB... MORE THAN JUST A BOWLS CLUB! Join as a member from as little as $5 per year.

Phone: 5174 2156 Email: reception@traralgonbowls.com.au Cnr of Gwalia St & Liddiard Rd Traralgon Vic 3844 For more information about the Traralgon Bowls Club visit www.traralgonbowls.com.au

MORE THAN JUST A BOWLS CLUB The Traralgon Bowls Club’s fresh new mouth-watering menu is the perfect solution for any occasion. Whether it is just a night out without cooking, or a Birthday or anniversary celebration you can be assured our talented chefs will create meals to remember. The Traralgon Bowls Club has worked extremely hard on establishing a facility that can accommodate a whole range of members, guest and visitors.

Our catering department operates 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner service, with a selection of great value meals there is sure to be something for everybody.

Having completed one of the most comprehensive kitchen refurbishments in the Valley, Traralgon Bowls Club can now provide an extensive range of meals.

To avoid disappointment at not getting a seat, we strongly encourage all customers to ring in advance and book their table.

visit www.traralgonbowls.com.au

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

Lone Pine Bistro located at the gateway to Cowes Family friendly and Fully accessible Vegetarian & gluten free options plus Childrens’ menu & Playroom Seniors’ menu and huge array of military memorabilia on display inside & outside of the venue

OPENING HOURS MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM TO 1AM* SUNDAY 10AM TO MIDNIGHT

PHILLIP ISLAND RSL LUNCH: NOON TO 2PM DINNER: 5.30PM TO 8.30PM

(*EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS – OPEN FROM NOON 26TH DECEMBER 2015 TO 26TH JANUARY 2016)

Phone: 03 5952 1004 BH

Enquiries: functions@pirsl.com.au

Visit www.phillipislandrsl.com.au

Sharon Bridge, Victor Petropoulos & Kristal O'Connor

madcowes local gastronomic icon

By Geoff Watt

Here in Gippsland we have a place where local and international celebrities have popped in to chill out and which is actually listed in the Lonely Planet Guide for its famed 'Roast Beef Sandwich'. This special place is Mad Cowes Cafe & Foodstore; a local gastronomic icon situated on the Esplanade in Cowes.

I recently met up with the three partners - Sharon Bridge, Kristal O'Connor and Victor Petropoulos who each bring to the business a unique personality and skill set, creating an alchemy which sees 'the whole become greater than the sum of its parts'. Seeing this vibrant meeting place of good food and wine for the first time and observing how the partners professionally operate it, one could be forgiven for thinking that Sharon and Kristal bought the business (some 8 years ago) as a well thought through vision. But one would be wrong - and this goes to show how everything that is great in life isn't necessarily planned.

Sharon, her husband Ian and her daughter Kristal never had visions of buying their own business.

The family lived in Melbourne but had holidayed at Phillip Island for many years but never considered moving here. Sharon had spent her working life between retail, hospitality, home cleaning and as a masseuse and Kristal had been a duty Manager at a major food chain with

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10 years’ experience. Sharon has always loved connecting with people (making her a natural 'front of house' person) but these complimenting skills that they each had were not the reason they bought Mad Cowes Cafe. As Sharon explains: "we did actually buy it on a whim and then the first day we opened we thought, now what do we do?" Talk about a baptism of fire! Needless to say it was a steep learning curve. "We came down Cup Weekend for a trial and then that was it. We opened on the 18th of November, roughly six weeks before the summer holidays. Then it was bedlam but we learnt as we went - we were adaptable and we had family and friends helping us too. You fake it until you make it!� They have certainly made it.

Out of chaos often comes opportunity and when Sharon, Ian and Kristal took over the business they ran out of cakes over the Christmas period - not aware the suppliers closed down before Christmas until well into January. "Every one kept coming in and our cake display case was empty. So we had to do something - that's when our Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffin was born." This Mad Cowes muffin is legendary and two customers I was talking to told me (very seriously) that the muffins are 'THE benchmark'.

Sharon was nice enough to give me one to take home and try but I must admit it didn't get that far - it was superb (apologies to my wife and daughter).

Victor is the incredible chef at Mad Cowes Sharon and Kristal met him through his wife

Tanya, who was a part of their original staff. They also knew of Victor's reputation from places he "worked at on the Island". Victor grew up in Fitzroy, a place where "you had to have your wits about you growing up." A chef now for 35 years, "I've been fortunate enough that it has taken me all over the world".

Indeed you've got to love what you are doing to be doing it for 35 years, but equally you've got to retain the passion and creative fire to evolve and stay ahead of the game in such a competitive industry - particularly these days

cafĂŠ & foodstore

when customers are so knowledgeable about good food and have such a wide choice. So I asked the obvious question: Where did your passion come from? To which Victor immediately replied, "I was always in the kitchen with mum.

Everything was made at home - genuine meals from back home in Macedonia. I would be there rolling up my own dough and making pastries with her in the kitchen as well as general meals."

In high school Victor was the only boy in home economics class, which meant he "got heaps" from the other boys at the school but we are all glad he had the strength of character to follow his passion undeterred.

Early in his adult life, Victor returned to his parent's village in Macedonia for three months to "live and breathe it - the way they worked and the way they harvested was still very rural - it was amazing, getting involved and giving them a hand".Before moving to Phillip Island to set up the Nobbies Centre (formerly Seal Rocks Centre), Victor was a chef at the temporary Crown Casino (at the World Trade Centre in Melbourne) and then one of the chefs involved with setting up the kitchens in the Crown Complex where it is today.

He has also previously operated the kitchen at Cowes RSL. Victor began working at Mad Cowes five years ago after he and Tanya had returned from going around Australia - "it was the break I needed to have". Victor explains, "I think it takes a special type of person to firstly take it on but then be a chef for 35 years - of all the guys I trained with, there are only two of us still cooking". Four years ago Victor became a partner in the business.

There is an emphasis on the whole environment at Mad Cowes Cafe. Quality food and coffee are the foundations but it is more than that. "Mad Cowes has become an institution - we have so many of our customers coming in every day.

Every morning from around 6:30am we have 15 to 20 people in." By personally selecting the best quality fresh ingredients (whether from Vic Market, Raffa Fields, Lamattinas, Arnolds) and cooking it with premium herbs and spices "you're showcasing the actual ingredients and not smothering it with too many flavours".

This is the sign of an experienced chef, confident and proficient enough to bring out the quality of flavour and texture inherent in the best fresh ingredients - to create something remarkable.

And Victor is quick to explain the incredible support he receives both creatively and in the everyday hard work from the rest of the team in the kitchen. The kitchen team includes a full time second chef and three other chefs on a rotating roster. "Each staff member brings an element of themselves to the kitchen to make it run smoothly and successfully."

Whilst they have a comprehensive menu, with the kitchen's creative energy and passion for food the menu is evolving all the time. But Victor is open to cooking meals from previous menus and more: "The menu isn't set in stone. We are open minded in regards to that - there is nothing we won't do as long as we have the ingredients and it doesn't interfere with the flow of getting the other meals to our customers."

Are you ever looking for a modern but classic interior where you can find space but still feel part of a vibrant flow of people, characters, and flavours? Major renovations were completed about six months ago making the interior spacious yet cosy (with both booth seating and tables), minimalist yet full of features. It includes a beautiful wooden bench seat the length of the inside wall. A great place to relax and chill.

The flow of customers and their conversations creates its own vibrancy and then Sharon, Kristal, Victor and staff bring on the food and drink - superb. If that is not enough, Mad Cowes is on the Esplanade with gorgeous sea views.

Speciality dishes include The Mad Cow Hash, Homemade Bircher Museli (Swiss Style) and their classic Raspberry & White Chocolate Muffins.

They also have their own unique specialty blend Mad Cowes Coffee.

Thank you Victor, Sharon and Kristal for what you have created.

Mad Cowes Cafe & Foodstore 3 /4 17 The Esplanade, Cowes Ph: 03 5952-2560 madcowescafe.com.au Photographs: Wildwood Photography

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ANTARCTIC

The newest attraction on Phillip Island invites visitors to immerse themselves in a spectacular multimedia wildlife experience. The Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies Centre is as close as most of us will ever get to Antarctica, and the interactive and sensory entertainment allows visitors to embark on an exciting, virtual journey to the world’s most extreme continent.

The Antarctic Journey made history when it opened just three months ago in December 2015, when it became the world’s first interactive Antarctic experience developed in partnership with WWF-Australia. As a joint venture between WWF and Phillip Island Nature Parks, the attraction showcases the wonderful world of the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, and highlights the need to work together to protect our natural world.

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Even though Phillip Island is almost 4,000km away from Antarctica, there are hints of the frozen continent all around. The Southern Ocean’s violent weather drives wild swells against the island’s shores which are home to penguins and seals, and whales from Antarctica visit Phillip Island’s waters as they migrate north.

Phillip Island is showcased on the first level of this new three level attraction, and features a fascinating interpretive display on the successful conservation of the island’s remaining penguin colony on Summerland Peninsula.

The Lab takes up the second level, and is jam packed with fun-filled hands on activities designed to both entertain and educate. Visitors will be able to ‘feel the freeze’ as they enter the Antarctic Chill Zone and experience the same sort of conditions as an Antarctic researcher.

The Sound Lab and Research Station offer a marvellous insight into the sights and sounds of Antarctic wildlife, complete with animal calls, microscopes and fascinating specimens.

JOURNEY

Many important questions are posed in The Lab, such as: ‘What is more likely to sink – a bowling ball or a marble?’, ‘What is the Cocktail Party Effect?’ and ‘How does my thermal image compare to an Emperor penguin?’. The fascinating array of hands on activities answer all these questions and more, and ensure that the unique wildlife, the ongoing research activities, and the critically important conservation values of this remote continent come alive to make this a truly enjoyable learning adventure.

The final level is known as The Chamber, and is one of complete immersion in what can only be described as a stunning and breathtaking, state of the art multimedia experience. Visitors will find themselves enthralled by the audio visual spectacle which puts them right in the heart of the action, surrounded by creatures of the deep like whales, seals, sharks and more.

The interactive wildlife experience is bound to be a highlight of any visit, as visitors will see themselves on a giant screen, standing on an ice floe, patting a penguin or stroking a seal, all thanks to a cutting-edge sensory entertainment experience. The augmented reality technology is world-class and really puts visitors right in the heart of the action, getting up close and personal with spectacular Antarctic wildlife.

As the first attraction in Australia to share the WWF brand, the Antarctic Journey is a worldclass addition to the much loved attractions of the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm and Wild Oceans EcoBoat tours, all operated by Phillip Island Nature Parks. With the stunning Antarctic landscape as the backdrop, and interactive wildlife experiences to enjoy, visitors will learn about the need for conservation of

the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, and that by working together we can all play a part in protecting our natural world.

WWF is one of the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organisations, with over 5 million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. For decades WWF has worked to conserve the natural wonders of the Antarctic, and millions of whales, penguins and albatross that live there.

Working in partnership, WWF helped establish the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary and two of the world’s largest marine protected areas – the Heard and McDonald Island Marine Reserve, and the Macquarie Island Marine Reserve. WWF also helped secure a ban on mining under the Antarctic Treaty Environment

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ANTARCTIC JOURNEY

Protocol, promote sustainable fisheries and substantially reduce illegal fishing across the Southern Ocean.

WWF-Australia’s current work in the Antarctic focuses on building a network of marine protected areas, new initiatives to protect wildlife such as whales and seabirds, securing sustainable fisheries management, and responding to the challenges of climate change.

balance between delivering quality ecotourism experiences and implementing world-renowned conservation, social, environmental, research and education programs.

Visit www.penguins.org.au for more information and to book your tickets to the Antarctic Journey.

Bundle and Save with a range of ticket options to create your own unique Phillip Island holiday.

Photographs courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Phillip Island Nature Parks is a not-for-profit organisation that prides itself on finding the

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EXPERIENCE SCENIC CRUISING with WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES

Wildlife Coast Cruises offers unique wildlife experiences and scenic cruises around Phillip Island, Westernport Bay and Wilsons Promontory.

WINTER WHALES

During the winter months the majestic Humpback Whales migrate along the Victorian coastline on their journey to warmer waters up north to give birth to their calves. We are very lucky to be able to witness these captivating marine mammals, famous for their surface activity including tail and pec (fin) slapping, spy-hopping and of course the ultimate sighting of them all … a full breach out of water.

Wildlife Coast Cruises has been operating whale watching tours for over 15 years, and with the knowledge and experience on board we are experts at spotting whales. Skipper and crew look for the tell-tale signs of a whale, including a blow, the dark shape of their backs and even underwater whirlpools called footprints. Learn a few whale watching tips on board and you might spot a whale yourself!

Winter Whale Cruises operate every weekend from early June to early August. The 4 hour cruise will take you around Phillip Island, taking in the very best sights including Seal Rocks, The Nobbies, Pyramid Rock, Cape Woolamai, as well as the bayside towns of San Remo, Rhyll and Cowes.

Whilst searching for whales, keep a good lookout for other fascinating marine life, such as Common Dolphins, Killer Whales, Southern Right Whales, and birdlife including the Shy Albatross. Rug up and enjoy the refreshing breeze, keep your binoculars handy for these special sightings. Or stay warm indoors with complimentary morning tea and hot homemade soup for lunch.

Once whales are sighted the Kasey Lee approaches the whales up to 100m, following them at a safe speed to allow the whales to feel at ease with our presence. Marvel at their huge sizes; be in awe of their gentle movements and be captivated at their migration story. Get involved with our local whale sighting study and send us your photo of their tails (flukes) as they dive under!

The fluke is like a fingerprint, and with your help we can continue learning about the fascinating journeys these majestic creatures take.

WILSONS PROMONTORY CRUISE

Come on an incredible adventure with Wildlife Coast Cruises and cruise around Wilsons Promontory National Park - one of the most beautiful and remote areas in the world.

Known affectionately as ‘The Prom’, Wilsons Promontory National Park is made up of many different islands, with coastal features including expansive mudflats, sandy beaches and sheltered coves, interrupted by prominent headlands, plunging granite cliffs and coastal dunes, containing diverse vegetation including warm temperate and cool temperate rainforest, tall open forests, woodlands, heathlands and swamps.

Wilson’s Promontory is home to a wide range of wildlife species. Along the vast and diverse coastline you may see predatory birds and emus, with offshore birds coming in close, including albatross and shearwaters. Marine life is abundant, keep a look out for playful dolphins, inquisitive seals, and the captivating whales.

SEAL WATCHING CRUISE

Come aboard this spectacular two hour coastal wildlife cruise, and experience an up-close encounter with thousands of seals at Australia’s largest fur seal colony!

Seal Rocks is situated 2kms off the rugged south west coast of Phillip Island. The boat drifts within meters of the seals, enabling you to witness them in their natural environment first hand.

From February to May young seal pups start exploring their habitat, learning to swim the rockpools and slowly venturing out into the sea – coming right up close to the boat for a closer look! It is impossible not to be captivated by these naturally playful and inquisitive animals.

Along the way you’ll be enthralled by the beautiful coastline and learn all about the history of Phillip Island’s western shoreline, whilst enjoying a complimentary afternoon tea.

The cruise will explore some of the most interesting areas of Wilson’s promontory and areas that cannot be reached by land, including; Kanowna Island Seal Colony, Skull Rock, and the Prom lighthouse. A 2 hour stop at Refuge Cove allows you to explore the stunning, sheltered beach.

Passengers can be taken ashore here with a small boat for a walk and swim.

What a great way to enjoy your afternoon, with a two hour return cruise from Cowes Pier, taking in the West Coast of Phillip Island. This is a fantastic cruise for all ages.

An experience of a lifetime, visiting untouched islands and rugged coastlines that are not accessible by land, viewing amazing rock formations, spectacular marine and wildlife areas that most people wouldn’t dream exist. Full day of catered, luxury cruising with breathtaking scenery of Wilsons Prom as you have never seen it before!

NEW FEATURE

Seal Watching Cruises are currently scheduled 2pm daily. Book in advance, as cruises are weather and number dependent.

Capture your cruise experience with the ultimate selfie! We now have a camera on board to get that photo that you wouldn’t be able to take anywhere.

Wilsons Prom Cruises are scheduled on March 20 & 21, April 17 & 18, and October 22, 23 & 24.

Book in advance for your Winter Whale Cruise scheduled Saturdays and Sundays at 9am from Cowes jetty.

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94A Ridgway, Mirboo North, 3871 ph 0447 230 635 Open Sunday to Friday: 7:30am to 4:30pm (Sunday to 3:00pm)

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Tamaralyns Shona & Tamara

Opened for five months, in Mirboo North is making quite a name for itself as a place for good wholesome food at very reasonable prices. Owner/operators Tamara and Geoff Hose have created a place for lovers of fresh homemade food including those that seek organic, vegetarian and gluten free menu options.

Tamara is a qualified chef and barista, while husband Geoff is a quality butcher and cook. They are ably assisted by Shona, who is a vegetarian chef and barista. The three come together to create something very special - a great range of fine quality traditional and vegetarian meals.

Geoff's Homemade Sausage Roll is not your average sausage roll, being full of quality meat - it is a meal in itself! Shona is behind all the vegetarian creations; there is no half-hearted vegetarian offerings here - all are well thought through and tested creations bursting with flavour to satisfy. The Vegetable Parcel with its roasted seasonal vegetables is proving incredibly popular, as is their vegetable lasagne. There is also a large selection of gluten free cakes baked fresh by Tamara to compliment the quality coffee and teas available.

Tamaralyn has a beautiful range of women’s clothes and handbags from Byron Bay (new clothing lines are coming in regularly) as well as 'Safe Enough To Eat' body care products. There is also a selection of local handcrafts and produce including hand knitted items, organic muesli, raw honey and herbicide-free garlic.

Tamara and Geoff's vision is to continue developing their seasonal menu and support local producers of high quality food. They are working to become a great place to pick up your organic pantry items organic coconut oil, organic teas, organic muesli are already on the shelves - and are already making their own chutneys and zucchini relish, both of which are proving to be very popular. As is their 'Super Green Smoothie'; the perfect detox.

Words: Geoff Watt Photographs: Wildwood Photography

Tegan Dawson

The Trinculo is now an iron skeleton of remains on Golden Beach after it ran aground in 1879.

Since then it had become quite an attraction.

The reef visible from the beach regularly loses parts of its coral and it washes ashore near the Trinculo. By 1934, it had attracted tourists who carved their names in the wood that disintegrated along with their petty acts of vandalism and attempt to etch themselves into history. Two other seafaring vessels ended their journeys at the same place as the Trinculo. Five spirits linger nearby reliving the trauma of the shipwrecks and a thief who was charged with stealing a lot of valuable items from it.

The Trinculo was built in Bristol, England, in 1858, it spent time marooned in South Africa, and had three owners over the course of its voyages. The final trip was on May 30th, 1879.

The Barque carrying coal encountered a terrible storm, with massive waves, severe undertow and high winds. The anchor couldn't take it and let go. The vessel with three masts was now at the mercy of the elements. All seafaring skills were employed, however, the barque ran aground some distance from shore.

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sand not knowing if their child had survived and unable to do anything about it until he reached land.

Thomas Lefevre, one of the nine crew members, took the logline and jumped in fully clothed into the treacherous sea. With great difficulty, he swam about 35 metres while dragging the thick rope the waves tossed around. He finally made it to land and secured the rope that allowed the others to guide themselves with more ease to shore.

Captain Williams’ family was aboard, his wife and 16-month-old son. On the way to the beach, his wife was dunked and she had to be dragged to shore. Captain Williams was following her with their son strapped to his back, when waves knocked him under, he recovered quickly and kept heading for the

Upon planting their feet upon the land, Captain Williams discovered his wife and child were unconscious. He and his crew worked to revive them and were very lucky that both recovered.

Mrs Williams spent two days on the beach in her saturated dress before being rescued. The crew built a fire and created a tent out of the mast.

Thomas Lefevre's actions led to him being awarded the Silver Medal for bravery by the Royal Humane Society because his actions are what saved all life aboard the Trinculo.

In the years after he became eccentric, on one occasion, he jumped into the Yarra River swimming across it to board a bus while sopping wet, he was asked to leave and refused. He didn't give a reason for his actions.

In 1881, the PS Paynesville, a Steamer built for the Gippsland Lakes was sent to Melbourne.

On route, it began taking on water. The waves

started crashing over the sides of the steamer and the water put out the fire for the boiler; it was dangerous to life and property subsequently the crew of 8 and Captain took the foresail and provisions, and headed for shore. The PS Paynesville tipped and came to rest not far from the Trinculo lying on its side. The ocean beat on it, breaking it apart and reclaiming it, no relic of the PS Paynesville is on Golden beach.

Meanwhile, the Trinculo was slowly moving up the beach.

Thirteen years later the Schooner, Julius, was not as lucky as the two ships before it. The sea was brutal and unforgiving of this voyage.

Conditions had been a sailor’s delight when they set out from Refuge Cove, at Wilsons Promontory. A smooth westerly wind was guiding them with their heavy load of granite for the Lakes Entrance piers. After the sunset, a southerly sprang up that caused havoc, with the many-masted ship and its complicated rigging system.

Captain Masters, had a crew of three, decided to put cook Andrew Callender in charge of

the wheel, and efforts were made to stop the Schooner running aground. The cabin started taking on water in the wee hours of the morning; the water rose rapidly; the buckets they used to bail the water barely put a dent in it. Soon the waves were breaking into the boat and swept crewman Swarberg overboard.

They decided to abandon the boat. Only two of them made it to dry land, crewmen Swarberg and Elske. They saw Captain Masters surrounded by debris and then they didn't see him anymore. Andrew couldn't swim, and never made it to shore. Swarberg and Elske started to walk to Lakes Entrance and after a day and night arrived the following morning, exhausted at Ocean Grange, where they were then taken to Sale. In Sale, they met Captain Masters’ brother, Captain Masters of the SS Omeo, who raced down to the wreck to find his brother’s body. This ship too was beached alongside the Trinculo.

people to feel a shortness of breath, and ‘sealegs’. While only two people died in this area, some spirits return to places of great trauma.

With the experience of drowning and not feeling sturdy, this may be what brought three others here, unable to shake this experience even in death. The Trinculo is keeping quiet about the mysterious attraction that has drawn so much to her final resting place.

The Trinculo is about 6.3 km from the Golden Beach town centre, on the Shoreline Drive towards Seaspray; there is a small Green sign on the west side of the car park. There is a short walk through the path that leads over the dunes onto the beach, with the Trinculo at you left. The ruddy iron protruding from the sand is all that remains of the hull that was about 7 metres wide, the rest of the 42 metres of the ship, gone.

They say the spiritual experience occurs when the Trinculo comes into sight, the feeling of five distinct souls, occupying the space, causes

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DINNER PLAIN Located just one hour from Bright and 45mins from Omeo on the Great Alpine Road, Dinner Plain has plenty to offer the day tripper or overnight visitors. The unique alpine village is home to over 400 ski chalets, able to accommodate couples through to large groups of up to 20 people.

Never been to the snow before and want to know what is on offer?

For the first timer: build a snowman, ride a toboggan, take a slide on the tube slides, strap on cross country skis and glide in between the snow gums, take a snow shoe tour, make friends with locals and take a sled dog tour or take a lesson on the beginner ski slope.

This year the whole family (2 x adults and 2 x children) can ski for under $115 on any day of the week. Dinner Plain is home to the cheapest skiing product in Australia. If you can’t get enough of skiing or tubing during the daylight hours, there is night skiing and tubing on Wednesday and Saturday nights.

For the more experienced skier Dinner Plain is located 10km away from Hotham and serviced by a regular bus shuttle.

At the end of your day soak up a treatment at the Onsen Day Spa, sip on après drinks, enjoy pub or fine dining fare at one of the many venues and complete your days with a cuddle with family in front of the fire back at your chalet.

The village has several food and beverage venues to choose from where the food ranges from pub meal, fine dining degustation to Japanese inspired menus. There is something for everyone.

With no gate entry fee and Australia’s Cheapest Family Lift Pass, Dinner Plain is affordable for the first time snow visitor.

Go to visit dinnerplain.com.au for more.

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is the perfect destination for a family winter escape and first timer snow experience.

Gippsland has some of the best waterways inland and along the coast, and in this edition Terry Raymond from Crawford Marine in Morwell and myself ventured to Blue Rock Dam, which is situated near Willow Grove only a short drive from Trafalgar and Moe in Central Gippsland.

I commented to Terry about the space the boat afforded as I found it easy to move around and there is plenty of storage for bags, fishing rods etc. with having the versatile in-floor compartments.

The optional transom door offers great access into the boat for fishing or for getting aboard from water sports.

With two large boat ramps, BBQ and toilet facilities, this popular dam is a pleasurable spot for all types of watercraft, fishing and swimming, and you can even bring your dog for a swim!

We cruised out on a new Stacer 509 Baymaster runabout and I have to say it hummed across the waters, picking up speed with elegance and then comfortably idling at low speed, and with the latest 90 HP Mercury 4 stroke outboard, the boat did offer a smooth quiet ride and you get brilliant fuel economy as well, which is important for any boat owner.

Blue Rock Dam was initially built to provide cooling water for the thermal power stations of the Latrobe Valley and to augment domestic water supplies. In 1992, Pacific Energy installed a small 2.4 megawatts (3,200 hp) hydroelectric generator that is linked to the national grid.

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What I did particularly notice when we were heading towards the Tanjil River, where most of the submerged trees were located, was the easy steering and handling of the Stacer and that was down to the EVO hull design which ensures a soft ride with great stability. The boat is standard with level flotation, which is a must when it comes to safety for the whole family.

We travelled around the entire dam and the views were magnificent, from cows lazing in the shade near the banks of the water and properties being built in the vicinity, which will have great views for many years to come.

The boat measures 5.1metres and can be easily towed by the family sedan, thanks to the lightweight and strength of the Stacer alloy driveon trailer; which I can vouch for, as I sat in the boat while Terry easily handled the positioning of the boat back onto the trailer, whilst leaving the water.

In regard to the Blue Rock Dam, I highly recommend it for boating and fishing, there are many coves along the shoreline where you can throw a line in and laze about in a beautiful scenic part of Gippsland.

Doug Pell with Terry Raymond

Call in and inspect our range of new and pre-owned boats

BOATING SINCE 1964

71-77 Chickerell Street, Morwell 3840 P: 5134 6522 E: info@crawfordmarine F: 5134 6455 www.crawfordmarine.com.au

MEMBER

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Specialising in Local Fish

Order Your Seafood For Easter Now!

For all

the best in fresh

Seafood

For all the best in fresh seafood, there is none better than Foster Seafoods This shop has everything for the seafood lover.

Alice and Lachie Duncan have added new lines to their business along with the freshest and best fish caught locally within Corner Inlet and Bass Strait.

On offer are freshly cooked Prawns, Moreton Bay Bugs, Crayfish, freshly opened Oysters, Mussels and a large variety of Local Fish – whole or filleted; along with our beautiful sauces.

Just give us a call or drop in. You are always welcome!

And you can be assured that the quality and service is still the best!

Crumbing: Sardine and Garfish fillets Smoking: Hot Smoked Atlantic Salmon, Chilli Mussels & Smoked Sardines all in Olive Oil Pickling: Local Scallops, Oysters with Tartare and Seafood Sauce, Home Made Chilli Sauce on the Mussels

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35 Main Street, Foster, Vic 3960 Tel/Fax: (03) 5682 2815 Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm, Saturday 8:30am - 12:00pm Contact: Alice and Lachie Duncan

thelifestyle spring 2015

moo’s at meeniyan

Restaurant & Café

Savour the flavours at Moo’s at Meeniyan Restaurant & Café, which has a relaxed, fun ambiance and something for all occasions – South Gippsland’s top food, wine and service.

Hours of Trading

Thursday to Monday 8.30am - 4.30pm | Dinner Friday & Saturday Nights from 6.00pm

89 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan Vic 3956 Phone: (03) 5664 0010 | Email: eat@moosatmeeniyan.com.au visit www.moosatmeeniyan.com.au

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Geoff Watt

It is quite special when families have a generational tie to a particular area. I was fortunate enough to recently meet Will Rankin, whose mother's family has been in the Kongwak/Inverloch area for generations. Will's grandfather, Stuart Scott is still on the farm that his father owned on the edge of Inverloch, although he is winding down the beef farming side and ramping up the chicken farming thanks to Will and his wife Emily. Will is the fourth generation on this farm, although the family connection to the land in this area goes back to his grandfather's grandfather, Richard N. Scott - a pioneer who settled on land in the Kongwak hills.

The obvious question one must ask is: How does a local Physical Education Teacher at Wonthaggi Primary School, who "absolutely loves" his job, get himself into chicken farming and egg production? "Well, I had backyard chooks and the eggs tasted pretty good!" is the simple answer - yes backyard chooks in a backyard in the heart of Inverloch.

There must be more to it surely, because there are thousands of similar backyards across Victoria doing that too, but they don't grow into a sizeable egg farming business. Will explains: "I was on a bit of a fitness kick and got onto eggs. I was hoovering down the eggs (laughs) and thought maybe I could have a few chooks to save a bit of money. I started with six and I just loved it. But what was annoying was everybody wanted them because everyone loves a backyard egg - mum wanted some, my sister, my brother, my grandfather - so then I got ten chooks and I thought well, just how many chooks can you have?"

Around the same time, Will's grandfather was scaling back the beef cattle on his farm and had an unused and dilapidated old shearing shed. Will thought he could "do it up a little and keep larger numbers of chooks in it." Twice Will suggested what he wanted to do with the shed, which was met only with firm laughter from his grandfather. "So then I didn't ask him again, I just started doing it and I thought the worst thing that would happen is that I fixed up his shed. But once he saw I was fair dinkum he got involved and gave me a bit of the yard to work with." Over the next six months Will fixed up the shed and did much research investigating people in the industry to get as much information as possible and see what type of chook farmer he wanted to be. "Phil and Anne Westwood of Freeranger Eggs at Grantville were so warm and welcoming with their information and assistance and became my mentors." Will learned much of the farming, production and distribution practices from them. "They have been tremendous mentors and I cannot thank them enough."

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Will started with 250 Isa Browns, was running at 700 two years ago and now has 2,200 chickens. Will is very lucky and grateful that his grandfather has given him the opportunity to farm.

"I think he gets as much satisfaction looking on as I do hands on. The way we farm brings out the best in the birds because they are happy. We move the sheds so there is always grass to forage in and insects to eat�.

And how does Will find the time while being a full time teacher and having a one year old son? (An obvious question us mere mortals would ask!) "I couldn't do it without my beautiful wife Emily, who is a wonderful mother and also works two days a week as a mid wife but still finds time to assist valuably in the business - she is a great support and we couldn't do this without her and my mum Chris. Also my stepdad Michael Malone (a local dairy farmer) provides ideas and advice. I just love the family connection with the land and who knows, maybe our little son Jack might want to keep the tradition going."

There are eight portable sheds of 8m x 3m over approximately ten acres (divided into four paddocks), which are regularly moved via a tractor. Each paddock contains two sheds and one Maremma Dog which "are natural protectors and we actually get them from Maremma Rescue Victoria so they are rehomed. They are beautiful dogs and it means we don't have to lock the chooks up at night although most naturally go back into the shed for the night." Each shed can hold 250-300 birds and there are no floors so every two to four days when you move it, a well-fertilised patch is left.

There is shade in all paddocks but Will has planted another 300 trees in the last two years to help the birds. Will's philosophy is to provide an environment for happy chooks to facilitate healthy eggs. He deliberately keeps his stocking rate at a level where de-beaking is not required. This means the chooks must

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have room to roam, so aggression isn't an issue. There is plenty of grass for each chook so artificial colouring in their feed is unnecessary (used to make the yokes yellow). In summer when the grass dries off, Will adds pumpkin, sweet paprika and chili to the feed to enhance the colour of the yolks. Chili has the added benefit of being a natural worming agent. Will also uses high-grade grain mix, rather than meat meal, which is found in many pellets but cannot be guaranteed not to contain chicken meat. The chooks are also given apple cider vinegar in their water to help their general health and immunity to disease.

Customers of good quality cafes are now demanding free-range eggs free of chemicals "which at first I thought may be a problem but has now become a marketing tool." The business produces approximately 110 to 120 dozen eggs a day and they are sold at Coburg Farmers Market twice a month, the Inverloch Farmers Market and also supplied weekly into Melbourne to cafes, fruit shops, et cetera. They supply some twenty quality outlets split roughly,

half between Gippsland and half to Melbourne.

Will finds running the business enhances his teaching by giving him a broader scope of life experience. "The farming brings another element into my teaching where I feel I have a good understanding and sense of perspective of the real world - running a small business, rolling up my sleeves and getting my hands dirty - so I am doing something, not just preaching. I haven't just gone from school to university then back to school", Will explains.

Thank you Will and Emily for your vision and passion. Thankyou for providing natural food as it is meant to be - free of chemicals. And no doubt your chickens, if they could, would say thank you for allowing them to have happy lives.

Everyone is a winner here.

Inverloch Free Range Eggs 7 Paperbark Place, Inverloch inverlochfreerangeeggs.com.au Photographs: Wildwood Photography

Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Traction Engine

Greg's Traction Steam chuffed out of the chimney streaming over the canopy as it clattered over the thin Warragul Railway Bridge. The Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Traction Engine first came to Warragul in 1907 and was honoured with a write up in the West Gippsland Gazette, inspiring Greg Mitchell, a qualified boilermaker and welder, to build a two-inch scale working model.

The first stage of building a model is finding a model that interests you, then seeing if there are plans available. The diagrams are quite expensive as this is a popular hobby in Britain.

Hobbyists lock themselves away during the inhospitable months in workshops building these models. The favourites and, therefore, pricier plans are Fowlers (like the one on display at Old Gippstown), Burrell and Aveling.

The Flying Scotsman is also a famous engine enthusiasts enjoy recreating.

Greg knew he could make a Steam Traction Engine as he previously built a train that runs on a five gauge track in the care of the Gippsland Model Engineering Society, at Newman Park in Traralgon. They run every last Sunday of the month. He was able to build this train entirely at home in his workshop, which it took five years.

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Greg was flicking through magazines, when he found the Durham and North Yorkshire plans, he has since misplaced them, but remembers there were 80-100 pages worth.

It was a massive project. He still wasn't quite convinced to undertake this project. While Greg is passionate about work he can complete with his hands he also loves history, he started researching about a local connection to the Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Traction Engine. He wasn't disappointed and found an article from the West Gippsland Gazette written in January 1907.

“A traction engine steaming over the Warragul Railway Bridge is not an everyday occurrence and the novelty of the scene added some interest to it.�

A hundred years later it piqued Greg's interest and the power of these words inspired Greg to take on the four-year project. The article went on to talk about how the engine revolutionised farming life. It reduced costs as farmers used to hire two bullock teams costing 50 pounds for the season, to do the work that the steam traction engine could do. The Durham and North could pull up the massive stumps, continue work in bad weather, drag things and best of all it didn't escape and eat or trample the crops.

Fowlers Steam Traction Engine on display at Old Gippstown

On A Steam Engine Tegan Dawson

Greg started work at 5 am until the apprentice showed up, he would then start the on works projects and when the apprentice left, he would return to this project. He did the finer metal work at home. Australian manufacturing standards required the boiler made to a high standard and this could only be undertaken in a proper workshop, to ensure the 8-inch boiler would meet the standards. The boiler heats up after burning charcoal for 40 minutes, when it reaches 100PSI and can run. It puts out quite a bit of smoke.

The 12-inch diameter wheels made with the original steel cleats that helped it maintain traction in the wet weather have rivets that Greg banged in with a hammer between 8 pm – 9 pm; he felt sorry for his neighbours but didn't receive any complaints. Greg created them and then as history dictated he added the vulcanised tyres and put them over the top. Keeping the history alive in the replica, because while the steel tyres were excellent in the slippery conditions as the local councils laid bitumen, these tyres acted like a knife churning up the road, this was not acceptable.

The canopy in the original Durham and North was corrugated sheet iron to keep the steam and sun off the driver. Greg's replica has lovely metal work on his Fowler steam traction engine’s inspiration. The corrugated steel roof is still a two-inch scale model.

Greg says, “It has only two speeds, it's geared down to buggery.” It has to be stationary when changing gears. The only place it has been driven is in the workshop in which he built the engine, during the Christmas break. The room filled with smoke.

Warragul & District Historial Society

It can drag ten people. Greg admits he didn't put the cable drum on near the back wheel and that in the original it was able to pull heavier things.

The two-inch scale replica wouldn't be able to do those things, even though it weighs around 80 kilos, which tested a weight lifter and three other men who helped move it to its current location - The Warragul Historical Society where it is on a long term loan for display.

A little more history on the Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Engine. It was one of five steam engines built over a ten year period between 1873 and 1883 by the Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Cultivation Company Ltd. The company ended up going bankrupt even though they were taking on other projects during that time, and was quite innovative. They claimed they had been able to isolate the boiler from the road, and tyre vibrations made it safer, and improved on Thomas Aveling's original design.

If you're interested in steam traction engines in Scoresby, the Melbourne Steam Traction Club have a workshop that is open to the public on the last Saturday of the month and they have an annual event in Bendigo. Locally the Gippsland Model Engineering Society runs trains on the last Sunday of the month at Newman Park, Traralgon. Old Gippstown, Lloyd St, Moe is open most days in Moe from 9 am – 4 pm where you can see the Fowler on display. The Warragul and District Historical Society located in Queen Street, just over the modern day Warragul Railway Bridge. Open Thursdays 10 am to 2 pm and 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month. Closed during December and January.

Photographs by Tegan Dawson Photographs of Greg Mitchell and Durham and North Yorkshire Steam Traction Engine supplied by Greg Mitchell

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Fine Jewellery Craftsmanship

Curtis Australia

By Trevor Brown

A jeweller for decades – over four to be precise, sees every day bring a new challenge – a ring design never produced before, a demanding jewellery restoration to keep a treasured memory alive.

Curtis takes these in his stride as only an experienced craftsman can, advising clients individually on the best way forward, making new jewellery and restoring much loved pieces with great skill and sensitivity.

Some pieces have been worn for 40 or 50 years without any significant work, and although these can be successfully restored, Curtis prefers to offer free regular checks on jewellery to spot wear and tear early.

One of the unique aspects of Bairnsdale jeweller Glenn Curtis - other than his obvious delight in making beautiful things - is his willingness to engage fully with customers. Glenn insists every visitor is seen individually and privately in the brand new Curtis Australia showroom with time to discuss their jewellery requests fully. It's here that his passion for jewellery shines through, as he discusses options for jewellery both old and new.

The Curtis team of international award winning jewellers works alongside the showroom in their purpose built studio, effectively looking after the complete jewellery needs of clients across the greater part of Gippsland.

Glenn Curtis explains that jewellery making is an exacting craft needing both accuracy and artistry.

'The jeweller faces two interwoven challenges – the spontaneity of creating a balanced design, the second to keep the spirit of the idea alive while forming and shaping precious metals, setting gems and applying a beautiful final finish.'

With a palette of gold in many colours and gems capturing any hue in nature, it's clear there are rich resources on hand in the modern Curtis facility, probably the largest in Victoria.

Talking to Glenn Curtis today sees none of his obvious enthusiasm for his craft in any way diminished.

A vintage car or furniture restorer would appreciate the importance of retaining both detail and character inherent in the piece. Curtis works diligently, often sourcing missing gems and recovering almost forgotten details while certainly restoring happiness to the owners.

Clients appreciate that their jewellery stays at the studio (nothing gets sent away) and are happy to entrust their treasured pieces. Diamonds are a special focus for the company, and seeing clients one at a time means they can help choose the best diamonds to fit their hand crafted design and budget. One of Glenn's favourite things is making new pieces, talking to the clients and interpreting their dreams into glittering reality – 'it's something I never tire of, and seeing the reaction when we unveil the finished ring is a wonderful feeling that motivates us even more. This joy in making things literally shines through in gold and precious gems - I think I'm very lucky to be working at something I love to do.'

With international awards for craftsmanship, the team at Curtis are driven to excel, and also to pass on their skills. With a long tradition of training apprentices, many of whom have gone on to win significant awards, there is 'a responsibility to share skills across future generations'. Difficult work such as the creation of illusion settings (where a diamond is surrounded by bright cut engraving) are skills that can only be taught by example.

About 14 years ago they formed Curtis Australia, now a recognised luxury brand creating fine jewellery and hand crafted writing instruments sold around the world.

Their work in this area has won several international awards including a coveted 'Best of the Best' Award from the world's most read luxury magazine, the Robb Report, where they were up against such rivals as Cartier.

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Happily the work (if indeed you can call it that, it's really a passion) is second nature to Glenn Curtis, whose skills are held in such regard internationally that he was invited to join the judging panel for a recent global jewellery design competition.

In these days of mass production, it's reassuring to see that design and craftsmanship are alive and well, as is a keen awareness of how much jewellery means personally. Glenn Curtis embraces the responsibility and opportunity by creating beautiful, lasting jewellery that often holds the memory of our life changing moments.

It's equally impressive to hear Curtis relate discretely (no names are ever mentioned) that many clients enjoy a lifelong relationship, Glenn Curtis has been a jeweller for over 40 years. A Fellow and past Secretary of the Gold & Silversmiths Guild of Australia, Glenn has owned and run jewellery stores in East Gippsland since the 1990's, along with his wife Heather.

A complete restoration gives this beautiful diamond ring a new lease of life

looking upon him as their personal jeweller. With engagement, wedding, eternity and anniversary rings being designed and hand crafted on the premises, it's easy to see why people keep coming back.

Glenn was also invited as the only overseas based expert to judge the inaugural Rio Tinto Diamonds

Global Jewellery Design Competition held in New York, something he modestly describes as reflective of the high standards of Australian jewellers in the international landscape.

An important part of the work at Curtis Australia involves the local community, for who Glenn likes nothing more than creating custom made diamond jewellery and remodelling much loved pieces. Curtis Australia is based in a large purpose built jewellery studio in Bairnsdale, and also has an office in Melbourne's CBD, a convenient location to meet with clients from around the world.

You can see more of their stunning work at www.curtisaustralia.com 03 5152 1089

ALI'S ART

BRIAGOLONG & SURROUNDS

SERVICES TO THE ARTS REWARDED!

By Ali Fullard It is 8.15am on Australia Day in Briagolong.

Already a large crowd of all ages have gathered at our wonderful Mechanics Institute for the traditional big breakfast of eggs, bacon sausages and toast, cooked by the Lions Club.

At the conclusion of breakfast we all gather outside to hear the announcement by councillor Peter Cleary, of Briagolong Citizen Of the Year.

A round of applause is heard as the winner is announced.

“PAT WATERS FOR SERVICES TO THE ARTS”!

Everyone managed to keep the secret and get Pat to the hall under false pretences! A talented and committed artist, she has continually shared and fostered an arts culture in our town and region over the last 30 years.

In 1986 after a teaching career in Melbourne and this area, Pat joined the Fulham Campus of T.A.F.E., co-ordinating the Diploma of Studio Textiles and Visual Arts. In 2000, with the support of husband Mick, Pat started the Briagolong School Of Fine Art (B.S.F.A.) in the Briagolong Mechanics Institute, with a “beginners” class and an “advanced” class for students who had some experience and training. Students spent time experiencing a variety of techniques, mediums and learning about the principles of colour and design, graduating to working in a more independent manner. I had the pleasure of being one of these students. Pat demonstrated her patient, extraordinary and creative ability to teach and foster the hidden talents of her students.

Unlike many other Schools of Art, Pat allowed her students to pursue their own artistic interests, style and chosen medium. She has generously, supported students working with pastel, pencil, oil paint, acrylic, gouache and numerous printmaking techniques. The sessions were also special for providing a forum for like-minded people to discuss art issues in this region and the world in general. Many thought-provoking, hilarious and sometimes heated lunchtime discussions were enjoyed.

Pat encouraged all her students to take their art seriously and many have gone on to exhibit their work in solo, joint and group exhibitions both in this region and in Melbourne.

Pat also initiated and involved herself with community projects and put Briagolong on the

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PAT WATERS map in the art world, with the running of her Summer Schools. She brought many wellknown artists to this region, to share their skills with local artists. Pat and Mick, also organised 16 overseas art tours to Italy, France and Spain.

The Briagolong Art Gallery was also an initiative of the B.S.F.A. and continues operating and expanding today.

Pat’s retirement saw the school close but she has been busier than ever with community projects. She has concentrated on her own painting and printmaking, at times using her work to highlight social issues such as the refugee crisis.

WHAT'S ON Tamara Bailey, “What Remains” Photographs 5th March till 3rd April. This is an evocative, urban exploration of abandoned buildings, visually documented in a series of photographs.

Arts Trail - Open Studios Stratford-Briagolong

March 12th and 13th. 10.00 am till 4.00 pm.

Following the successful open weekend held last November, 16 artists will open their studios to the public who will be able to spend time with the artists working in the fields of painting, printmaking, textiles, sculpture, ceramics, glass and drawing. These open days provide a terrific opportunity to speak with the artists and tour our great region. The artists participating are Gillian Kline, Maxine Salvatore, Col Little, Deb Milligan, Ness Power, Pat Waters, Gavin Roberts, Ali Fullard, Dawn Stubbs, Krystal Stubbs, Kellie Williams, Valmai Todd, Kathy Luxford, Malcolm Boyd, Sue Fraser, Wendy Worner. Free admission. Maps and information available from the Wellington Shire Tourist information centre, Segue Café Stratford, Riverstone Café Briagolong and Briagolong Art Gallery. Ph 0427 327 494 a theme for this show. They came up with the idea of using the NEW AGE Encyclopaedias (1983 Bay Books 30 Volumes), which Jenny kindly donated, as a starting point for the works.

of an encyclopaedia in which visitors, after selecting 5 works and spending time looking at them will be able to draw new connections and gain information in a unique way.”

Lesley Duxbury explains: “Each year in April a Saturday is nominated as International Slow Art Day, a day when visitors to art galleries around the world are encouraged to spend 5 – 10 minutes looking at each of up to 5 works of art in an exhibition.

Exhibition - 9th April till 8th May - Slow Art Day website: www.slowartday.com/about/ Freestone Press Printmakers, “Inspired New

Works” 14th May till 12th June. Dynamic prints, using a variety of traditional and innovative printmaking techniques.

This is significantly more time than the normal 15 seconds. Participants are encouraged to meet together after viewing their works to talk about their experiences over coffee or lunch, so this year the event will also involve the local Riverstone Café in Briagolong.

Each artist has randomly received an encyclopaedia from which to draw inspiration to create an artwork in any medium.

Inspiration may come from the text or images.

Encyclopaedias are considered to be obsolete sources of information and knowledge now that we have the Internet and Wikipedia.

Briagolong Art Gallery Artists “Recreating the Obsolete.”

It starts on Saturday 9th April to coincide with the Slow Art Day. 4 of our members, Lesley Duxbury, Wendy Chappelow, Jenny Dalgleish and Fiona Reynolds got together for a discussion about

However, the physical interaction we have with a book through turning or flicking through pages gives access to knowledge in different ways and allows us to ‘stumble’ across information in ways that would not be possible online. The artists will engage with such random connections between encyclopaedia entries and turn what may be considered obsolete into new knowledge in the form of artworks.

The exhibition as a whole will become a version

BRIAGOLONG ART GALLERY Cnr Forbes and Avon Streets, Briagolong 3860 Open Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm or by appointment Contact 03 51 455 439 or 0427 327 494 | Email briagolongartgallery@gmail.com | Web briagolongartgallery.com Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/briagolongartgallery

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“MERCURE MEETINGS” WARRAGUL’S NEWEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS.

For Enquiries Phone (03) 5618 3500 Email: reservations@mercurewarragul.com.au 23 Mason Street, WARRAGUL, Vic 3820

P r i n t s | D r a w i n g s | Wa t e r c o l o u r s | M i x e d M e d i a | D i g i t a l i m a g e s | O r i g i n a l c a r d s

“I work across a range of media inspired by the natural world and dramatic landscape of the Gippsland region.”

Open: By Appointment | All Welcome 75 Landy Lane Briagolong 3860 Ph. 0427327494 | Email alifullard@bigpond.com

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ART Helen displaying the linocut and finished print

Endearing and talented Gippsland print artist Helen Timbury, has put together an exciting new exhibition of her work along with works by her fellow artists and friends Sue Gilford, Kate Gorringe-Smith and Libby Schreiber at the Stockyard Gallery in Foster.

The exhibition titled ‘Where the Land Meets the Sea’ features nature, conservation and birds in linocut, etching and pyrography.

“We all have an interest in birds and three of us have previously exhibited in a show at Meeniyan, which is where I met Sue Gilford,” Helen said. “Sue is a Melbourne-based pyrographer. She burns her art into wood and then colours it to create the most beautiful work.

We met while admiring each other’s work and instantly connected. We both love shore birds and conservation so we agreed then to exhibit together but it’s taken about three years.”

Kate Gorringe-Smith is a print maker living in Melbourne. Her work is mainly about shore birds particularly the short-tailed shearwater.

“Her art is about journeys and birds that travel a long way and are perhaps endangered,” Helen said. “The nicest thing about working with Kate is that we met in Prep at Strathmore Primary School in Melbourne, so she is my

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from the linocut

prep friend. We went our own separate ways in Grade 3, when she left to go to Melbourne Ladies College. We saw each other though, throughout our secondary years while still going to different schools. We both went to Uni, travelled overseas, had children and always just checked in on each other, and she became Godmother to my eldest daughter.

Quite a while after coming out the other end of all that, we realised we were in the same place.

We were both print makers and both did a lot with birds, so we said one day we must exhibit in a show together. I think we said that about 10 years ago, so this exhibition is quite special.”

Libby Schreiber is from Eltham and like Helen, she is a print maker who uses linocut. Helen said she met Libby at a Drouin Ficifolia Art Show where they both exhibited work in the print making section. “I was looking at her amazing work and she was next to me looking at mine. I then invited her to my studio for a cuppa and we yapped for ages. There was an instant rapport between us because we both made art in the same way and we liked each other’s work.”

Helen said getting artists in Melbourne to bring their work out to regional areas is often difficult, which makes the small show at

By Wendy Morriss

Foster an exciting project. She said that many regional artists now want to take their work to Melbourne.

“I love having local shows because local people appreciate the art and they buy it.

I also connect with people so it’s a nice way to work. I do send images though, to certain print making shows in Melbourne to become more recognised as a print making artist generally.”

She said they chose the Stockyard Gallery, which is a not-for-profit community gallery and gift shop, to put the art works about nature, conservation and birds in a place where people might find them. It’s also open seven days a week.

As well as being a print artist and illustrator, Helen is also a graphic designer. She graduated from RMIT with a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication in 1988. “We were the last group of students to go through when illustration and topography was still hands on.

Computers were out there and some were used in the industry but we were trained to use rotring

Helen Timbury in her Drouin studio

A linocut above used to create the finished print below

ink pens, gouache and Letraset. A few years later, Adobe brought out their graphic design programs. I moved into it slowly. I bought an Apple computer but it only had a small amount of storage and could only really handle the typing. It couldn’t handle images.”

Helen’s main work now is producing limited edition artworks using linocut or linocut with collage or drawings. The rest of her work is graphic design and she works from her home studio in Drouin where she has lived for the last 19 years.

After graduating, Helen moved to Genoa in far East Gippsland and started doing some voluntary work for a local conservation group. This led to paid work as a freelance illustrator in conservation and environment. Sometime later, she moved to Wedderburn in Northern Victoria and continued doing the same work for many years.

“Linocut is something I’ve always loved, particularly after seeing an exhibition of Margaret Preston’s wood cuts in Canberra, but it’s been in the background and I just thought of it as another tool for illustration. I did do a bit of linocut at high school and a bit more at college before using it later for illustration. Then after

moving to Wedderburn I joined some classes to learn more.”

Helen has specialised in linocut print making now for almost 20 years and said she became serious about producing more works after her youngest son started school 10 years ago. “I was then able to produce enough work to have an exhibition and people liked the work and would buy it. I realised then I had to make more than one copy so I started making two, so there would be one of two. I now have 10, 20 or 30 limited editions of the art work I do. If I do a large piece and it has to be hand rubbed, I tend

‘A hummingbird shares this air’

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The artist at work

to only print five but sell it as five out of 10 and do the other five copies another time.”

She said the ideas for her work don’t usually come from her. It’s often in collaboration with another person who has approached her with an idea that they are passionate about and they work on it together. One was Hedy Kirkbride who wrote a small fable called ‘The Magic Orchard’, which was about sustainability and gardening and they held an exhibition together.

Another was local artist Russell Lilford who wanted to hold an exhibition about Dyslexia.”

‘The Harvest’

‘The Clay Pot’

Helen said she likes turning other people’s ideas into visual work while using elements from her own life and upbringing to explore them, and she believes it adds richness and depth to the work.

For more information visit www.helentimburydesign.com.au Photographs by Wendy Morriss

ROSEMONT FARMSTAY Soak up the beautiful views and tranquillity at Rosemont Farmstay Situated at Jack River only 15 minutes south-west of Yarram, off the South Gippsland Highway.

Smoke-free facility suitable for couples or families, it has three double bedrooms (linen provided), bathroom (separate toilets), two living areas, warm and comfortable with reverse cycle air conditioning and electric wall heater, dining room and a fully equipped kitchen.

You can simply relax or visit various places of interest nearby: Yarram, Tarra Bulga National Park, Ninety Mile Beach, Port Albert, Agnes Falls and Wilsons Promontory.

FOR BOOKINGS and PRICES CONTACT 84

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Doug and Helen 03 5184 1392

Email: dunkineely3971@gmail.com

RED TREE GALLERY EXHIBITIONS MARCH Irene McConville - a show called Colour, Texture and Water.

This is a show of creative and traditional watercolours running from 25th February to 30th March. The opening is on 28th Feb from 2 to 5pm. Irene has had sell-out shows whenever she has exhibited before, so this should be a delight.

APRIL Laurel Foenander. Laurel is a well known local painter who enjoys considerable success in Melbourne and around Australia. Her show of diverse and colourful acrylics runs from 31st March to 27th April.

 MAY Meredith Leamon - Quilts of Colour. Patchwork and quilting are, to me, basically colour, pattern and texture. I don’t use paint for my work, I use coloured fabrics. The show runs from 28th April to 25th May. See website (www.lauriecollins.com.au) for further details

420 Main Jindivick Road, Jindivick VIC 3818 Phone 5628 5224 Email lcollins@dcsi.net.au

Antiques Collectible Vintage Retro Industrial Shabby Fashion Trading Hours 10am-5pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 0438 730 383 | 03 5634 2228 thelifestyle autumn 2016

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AS SWEET

‘The Bunyip Beekeeper’

AS HONEY

By Geoff Watt

Many of us would have heard the term 'colony collapse' in reference to the world bee populations which has received much media coverage in the last few years. Perhaps it doesn't appear to mean that much to some after all, we each have many day-to-day issues in our own lives that fill up our time. But the humble bee is an integral part of the ecosystem from which we get our food. They play a vital role in pollinating the plants that provide our fruit and vegetables. I had heard that thirty percent of the food we eat needs healthy bees to pollinate it but someone close to the problem has informed me that the thirty per cent figure is referring to volume, not nutrients. It is closer to seventy percent of the nutrients in our diets that we get from bee pollinated food plants! That is very significant and makes one realise just how much we need these little creatures.

I was lucky enough to meet up with a person who is helping the bees prosper while also producing something very delicious here in Gippsland. His name is William Rogers and he is 'The Bunyip Beekeeper'.

William had never really thought much about bees but life led him to beekeeping through

necessity; looking for some relief from the terrible hay fever he suffered for years. "I was just so sick of being miserable for months, every year." Someone had suggested that he eat locally produced honey to build his immunity to the pollens around where he lived "by having a teaspoon a day". He lived in Cranbourne and try as he did, he could not find any. So he bought himself a hive, and thought that at least he would get the bonus of "having the bees pollinate my vegetables" and that opened up William to the fascinating life of bees.

Having a hive in surburbia though was always going to have its challenges. Family circumstance and opportunity saw William move to Bunyip two years ago. Once in the country he was able to dedicate more time to beekeeping. People would say, "I've got some bees in my milking shed, can you come out and help? So I was suited up pulling bees out of cattle feeders - I just loved it, I was having a ball.

Then as word spread I'd have people knocking on the door asking, "Are you the beekeeper?"

Then it got to the point where people were ringing or calling in asking, "Are you the Bunyip Beekeeper?" So the name stuck." But not everything is sweet about the job. "It's a hard

job you know, hot, sweaty and sticky (laughs) - yeah everything is sticky. Its takes hours to clean up because there is honey everywhere and you can't leave any behind in case bees from another colony come and take some back to their hive - it may spread disease. And after every job I've got to sterilise all the tools."

He was soon struggling to keep up with the requests and maintain his long hour shifts working as a Project Manager. "When I moved out here I bought three hives, then next thing you know they turn into 20 hives and then 20 blows out to 90 - "Now I've got about 50 sites mixed between one and five hives and I'm running 90 hives with goals to hit 500." To cut a long story short, I interview William today - his first day as a full time beekeeper - The Bunyip Beekeeper.

William is fascinated by bees. They are truly amazing creatures and everyone who takes time to study them seems to be the same. We could write many fascinating pages here about what they do and how they do it, but that is not the purpose of the article. It is about William, who has connected with bees and is assisting them in surviving, prospering and delivering

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quality raw food for human consumption as nature intended. "I love doing it and it’s done wonders for my health. I was stuck behind a desk for fifteen years but now getting out and working with hives is really beneficial. And its meditative - working with bees you have to slow down. When you have a hive open, you can't be fast and waving your hands around because the bees will get agitated. So when you are nice and calm, slowly moving the frames etc. it not only doesn't disturb the bees but it also calms yourself and can become meditative."

It wasn't long before William was collecting a serious lot of bees. William now offers a wonderful service of leasing a Bee Hive. Not only does this help people learn about a bee colony, it sets healthy colonies up at various geographical locations, thus adding to the diversity of honeys produced. William has about 50 sites with 90 hives dotted from Hampton East to Yarra Junction, Pearcedale to Jindivick, Moe to Stony Creek. William builds up the hives and then splits them and puts in a Queen to start a new hive. Thus they keep growing in number. He visits each hive every 2 to 4 weeks for a health check and he always brings an extra suit and encourages the leasees to be involved and learn in a practical way. Leasees are also gifted the first 9 kg of the honey harvest. A great way to get your own raw honey from the local pollinated plants where you live! It is William's

goal to have working hives in most areas of Victoria so people will have the ability to get cold extracted raw honey from their area as well as having the local plants well pollinated.

The Bees are fascinating. I ask William how many bees in a hive: "It depends on the time of year and how much space you give them but a typical working hive will have between 30,000 and 60,000 bees. But they are not all flying; when a bee first hatches it's first job is to clean the cell that it was hatched in. Then they become cleaners, then they graduate to become nurse bees feeding developing larvae, and there is a few steps in that also, then they graduate again and begin producing wax and building up the colony, then again they graduate to become guard bees out the front of the hive they are gradually building up strength to finally graduate as a forager bee."

Generally the bees never look back to a previous job unless due to necessity, such as a loss of bees to the hive. Who delegates the jobs? The queen maybe? No, surprisingly, "A colony of bees is one organism. It’s not a chain of command like with us, they work all as one on some deeper level. The queen does produce a pheromone which signals there is a nice healthy queen here and she's working so it keeps everyone calm but she doesn't give instructions. Everything is for the good of the

colony." Bees can even replace their queen for the good of the colony.

"If it is too dry, trees don't produce nectar (which is needed for the bees to make honey) so Gippsland with its relative high rainfall is a good place for bees. The honey is the bees’ carbohydrate source to get through winter and they use the carbohydrate as energy and the worker bees will vibrate their wings to warm the hive. Bees can actually survive negative 30 degrees so long as they have plenty of food.

The pollen is their protein source. Some flowers produce both nectar and pollen, others like Wattle just produce pollen while others like Yellow Box just produce nectar. But bees need a site with a nice balance of nectar and pollen - if they have got plenty of nectar coming in, but no pollen, they can't produce more bees because their is no protein."

Asked if pesticides effect the bees, the answer is "dramatically". A relatively new type of systemic pesticide known as Neonicotinoids are taken up by the plant and transported to all the tissues (leaves, flowers, roots and stems, as well as pollen and nectar). But Neonicotinoids have become of increasing concern to beekeepers and bee researchers in recent years with many suspecting they may be connected to current bee declines. These concerns have led to partial bans on the use of some neonicotinoids for specific crops in several European countries, including France, Germany and Italy.

Whatever the reason for the decline in bee numbers throughout the world, it is something we must take seriously and find an answer to, thus protecting our food sources. Supporting people like William can only help and as a bonus the honey tastes delicious.

The Bunyip Beekeeper's cold extracted raw honey is available online at thebunyipbeekeeper. com.au but also at Bunyip Community Market, Warragul Farmers’ Market as well as about half a dozen stores (health food and speciality stores). He will soon be attending Longwarry and Pakenham Markets.

Other products include Beeswax Candles and soaps.

The Bunyip Beekeeper 6 Webb Street, Bunyip thebunyipbeekeeper.com.au Photographs: Wildwood Photography

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Natural Indulgence Hair and Wellness would like to introduce Alaka. Alaka, (Sanskrit for ‘girl with beautiful hair’) is the latest, chemical free, hypoallergenic product range available at Natural Indulgence.

Alaka is the result of the creative director of Natural Indulgence Hair and Wellness, Skye Holland, undergoing a major health scare four years ago, which medical professionals were unable to pinpoint the actual cause.

This led her to evaluate everything she was consuming, as well as subjecting her body to, namely seemingly harmless chemicals in everyday personal care and beauty products, which are absorbed through your skin.

After extensive research Skye attempted to eliminate the majority of chemicals from her life, however found it increasingly difficult to source chemical free, natural hair products. Following extensive research into health promoting ingredients and her research on ancient eastern natural remedies, Skye began making and using her own organic products free of chemicals.

After working in the salon for a year she also realised a number of her clients needed products to deeply moisturise, enhance the shine, help stimulate growth, nourish and reduce inflammation and eliminate dry scalp.

Knowing that there wasn’t any plant based organic products on the market, Skye set out to produce her tried and tested recipes on a commercial scale and the result is two market leading products.

ALAKA’S LUSCIOUS SHINE ENHANCER OVERNIGHT OIL This amazing overnight oil is a blend of 10 essential oils designed to deeply moisturise your hair, lock in radiant shine and seal off unwanted split ends. The result being: luscious, shiny hair, typically seen in hair commercials.

All ingredients in Alaka’s range of products are hand crafted with the highest grade certified organic oils, herbs and spices and are now available as part of the salon's new Hair Spa menu or can be purchased to take home.

ALAKA’S NOURISHING AND STIMULATING MUD MASQUE This nourishing mud masque consists of 27 different herbs and spices designed to detoxify, invigorate and awaken the scalp. The masque also aids in cleansing and drawing out the accumulation of chemicals and bacteria from the scalp, generating circulation and blood flow, enhancing growth and eliminating hair loss.

A Natural, Organic, Eco + Environmentally Friendly Hair Salon. FREE from all harsh chemicals causing health concerns.

• Women’s Hair Styling • Colours • Upstyles/Weddings • Relaxation & Pamper Sessions • Children’s Cuts • Men’s Styling • Men’s Night No appointment needed 18 Bailey St Bairnsdale Vic 3875 03 5152 4872 Find us on Facebook and Instagram thelifestyle autumn 2016

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By Stuart Hay

DON’T DIE WONDERING Wives beware the unsupervised husband in the shed or garage. Innocuous hobbies can be worked up into life changing passions, if not nipped in the bud by deft application of a new toy or regular focus sapping interruptions of children, renovations or holidays. The following story is a true example of how far a curious mind can follow a love of drinking wine.

David Harman is an IT professional who greatly enjoyed the drinking of wine and whose intellect demanded he know intimately the methods of production of his preferred beverage. Twenty litres made with a mate in the laundry, fired a desire to improve. A twenty week course with a winemaking supplies company and a few modules at NMIT, saw him develop a fetish for stainless steel. Soon the only wheels in his garage were the three on his pallet jack as he shifted crushers and fermentation vessels around and left concerned neighbours wondering if he was having a mid life ‘Breaking Bad’ moment. The moment I can clearly see

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in my minds eye, was when his patient wife Nicole first discovered wine making equipment invading her lounge room.

No longer a casual interest, this passion had to be thoroughly pursued. It helped, that David had a desire to remove himself from corporate containment and seek the self-gratifying results of production with his own hands in an environment of his choice.

The environment they found was on the Korumburra – Inverloch Road, in Wattle Bank South Gippsland. A fifteen acre piece of potential was acquired and a trial acre quickly planted out with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier and Pinot Gris.

A cellar door needs variety and quantity and David had to source fruit from other growers in Gippsland. Unfortunately this is a competitive market and the best fruit is expensive and hard to secure.

Consequently David has plans to increase his area under vine to six acres next year. He thinks Shiraz has potential. I tend to agree.

Gippsland Shiraz, when it isn’t smothered in oak, has a wonderful charry mineral character, which makes it distinctive and a lighter palate makes it easy to get along with. While David is interested in growing the classic varieties he has the antipodean penchant for experimentation.

A wine he is particularly proud of was his 2013 made Rosé from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Shiraz. This novel blend had an earthy character from the Shiraz, which worked well with the Pinot Noir’s strawberry brightness.

I get a sense that David is energised by the unending combinations of inputs that can alter the final flavour of his product. Is that too IT a sentence? In this instance I think David’s previous career is a boon to his new direction.

Wine making needs a solution focused mind and a capacity to research and reason. Passion is all that is required for the inspiration.

David & Nicole Harman

So what does a small start-up winemaker do next? He taps into the local networks and tries to make new and more interesting wines.

Lithostylis, Dirty Three, Tarwin Valley Wines, Lucinda Estate and The Wine Farm. All South Gippsland wineries run by passionate young winemakers who are chasing similar dreams to David and with whom he buys fruit and compares notes.

This in itself is an exciting development for Gippsland wine. A lot of these new wineries are trying to standout with contemporary marketing and early uptake of new wine styles and fresh

techniques. All these new young winemakers are able to launch their own brands, as they no longer have to tie up capital in land and infrastructure. You can have a go, cost effectively, buying fruit and renting time and tank space in a contract winery. The days of needing a lawyer or doctor’s wage are gone. Curious and passionate people can now move out of the realm of hobbyist and have a go at being taken seriously.

I asked David where he saw himself in fifteen years and he rapped the table we were sitting at in his cellar door. “Living right here making wine

full time”, he said. In a world of job cycling every five years that is a strong statement but as he points out, it is a love job. Winemaking is not work it is pleasure.

The famous doctor turned vigneron, Max Lake, caked his Hunter Valley winery, Lake’s Folly and this is in reference to the amount of money that can be lost when chasing dreams in the wine industry. David has certainly made me a believer in his daydream. Harman Wines will still be available for tasting at their cellar door fifteen years from now.

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OPEN WEEKENDS 11am - 5pm & daily over Easter Long Weekend WOOD FIRED PIZZAS & LIVE MUSIC MUSIC 1pm - 4pm | PIZZAS From 12pm Wine varieties include Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc & Rosé PIZZA/MUSIC: On selected days Please check our website for more details

612 Korumburra - Inverloch Road, Wattle Bank 3995 (only a few minutes from Inverloch & Wonthaggi)

Phone: 0411 030 421 Cellar Door: 5611 3857 www.harmanwines.com.au

GIPPSLAND THE LIFESTYLE WILL BE AT LARDNER PARK, FARM WORLD SITE NO. GIP76 | THURSDAY APRIL 7 – SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016 Come and have a chat to us at Farm World 2016, we will be there this year in the GENERAL INTEREST PAVILLION at Stand 76.

We will have copies of our Autumn Issue 26, along with some copies of our past issues.

Gippsland the Lifestyle is a Gippsland magazine printed and distributed throughout Gippsland, so make sure you visit us and we can assist you with your business.

We produce an exceptional high quality, full gloss, perfect bound, quarterly magazine with colourful, clear design and in-depth articles; providing excellent substance with a mix of stimulating journalism and photography. We have built a loyal community who continue to grow and interact with our magazine and related events and regular inspiring features.

Drop in your business card at our stand to enter the draw for a chance to win ONE FULL PAGE AD, printed for FREE in the Winter Edition 27. This of course is for Gippsland Businesses. www.thelifestylemagazine.com.au E: thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au P: 0404 301 333

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COME AND VISIT US AT FARMWORLD Stand 76

Wine Review

by Stuart Hay | The Press Cellars

HARMAN WINES PINOT NOIR 2013 This Pinot has definitely been in the Gym! A sappy, earthy subtext reads between the lines of pure cherry and baking spice. The oak adds spice and cream to the nose.

The dense palate offers dark fruits and browned cinnamon.

A waffle cone patisserie is brought by some judicious oak handling.

Cutlery would be useful while enjoying this substantial treat.

DIRTY THREE RIESLING 2015 Quite a nose! Jelly Crystals and Tahitian lime, honeycomb and a heady cottage garden in summer floral kick.

Melon fruits with a subtle acid backbone, which just holds the residual sugars candy notes.

A dry wine drinkers dirty little secret! Well done D3.

rrp $30.00

rrp $28.00

Dirty 3

Harman Wines The Press Cellars 1/80 Smith Street Warragul, VIC 3820 Phone: 03 5623 3880 www.thepresscellars.com.au

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t a b e l m o a c C t&S h g i l F an Teg

At an airstrip near Lake Narracan, where model aeroplanes take flight most weekends, is a runway managed by the Latrobe Valley Model Aero Club, who runs regular events. On the 17th of January was a combat event. Inspiring thoughts of planes crashing into one another.

Crashing into another plane is a rough idea for most club members to consider, and is not the objective of combat. Each plane competing has a streamer attached, and participants aim to cut the streamer flowing from the tail of the opponents’ planes with their plane. For those who attended the combat event to see a midair collision were not disappointed, two planes connected wings with a loud crack. Then instantly fell towards the earth, this happened 32 seconds into the first combat round.

Travis McInnes built a plane for the combat event at the start of the day he was doing preflight checks, securely attaching the wings to the body, checking the electrics, and ensuring wires were tucked away. While making these final preparations he said this was the first plane he built himself, and had finished it the day before the event. "I'm hoping I don't crash it."

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son

Daw

Brian Adams had a plane just like Travis', except his was covered in black and yellow painted fish and chip shop paper. He estimated it took him thirty hours to build. It is his first combat plane.

Brian prefers flying electric planes, like the combat one, he has a nitro engine, but it is still a work in process, requiring a refit and replacing radio gear. He has always liked planes and had one as a kid. Now, seemed like a good time to get back into flying. Brian took his model up for a test flight when it came down heavily on the prop, which demolished the front end, putting him out of the combat event before it started.

Travis said he's been flying on and off for ten years, however, has only just become serious in the last two months. His green and white wrapping paper-covered plane had no landing gear, and required a hand launch to start. There was a test round where it crashed, however, as Chris Davenport the club president would say, "It doesn't matter what kind of landing, it's a good landing if you only have to bend down once." For Travis this was true, and he said he was feeling much more confident and looking forward to entering the combat, once his planes had completed the minor repairs in the pits.

Wayne Lowe had a gigantic plane, a Yak 54, resting at the makeshift gates behind their car. He had spent twelve months putting it together, covering it and having the canopy and nose cowl painted to match. Wayne was not planning on using it in combat and was taking it for flights beforehand. The 2.2-metre wingspan of the plane makes it more stable, less affected by the wind, and he enjoys flying it.

The club puts on many events over the course of the year. On the 24th of January they had a wet and dry day, where floatplanes took off from

This Page: Fly Baby flying

Lake Narracan. Chris Davenport, has a Skipper, it's able to take off from grass, snow, water - it's the all season plane, made out of polystyrene.

The Skipper comes from the shop to home almost assembled, almost ready to fly (ARF).

There was a range of ages at the landing strip.

An 11 year old informed he has operated planes at the field on three occasions hooked up to a buddy system with Wayne, the club’s instructor.

Three times he has crashed, but the models were repairable even the time he nose-dived into the ground. He has been practising on the simulator. However, dad piped up and said he wasn't putting in enough hours. There was a similar story for another young fellow who was beginning his journey of flying model aeroplanes with his dad too.

Yak at it's restraints 'make shift gates'

Focus Greg with Fly Baby

Greg Mitchell was one of many members who wasn't there to compete in the combat event; he had two planes sitting at his gates, the 'Fly Baby' which he made from scratch, at a 1/2 scale to the original 1930's model aeroplane. It is painted silver, missing the guidelines, which he will be putting on for a scale event later this month in Bairnsdale. In it is a laser printed motor replicating the original 'Fly Baby' motor. Scale competitions grade on the scale detail and flight.

Greg is hoping to make his points in scale detail.

He also has a Tiger Moth biplane, the nose was missing as he'd recently put a new more powerful motor in it. The wind doesn't bother the Tiger and that makes it good to fly. The Tiger Moth has an electric, Redback .61 motor, 5s battery that pulls about 40 amps. Greg estimates he has built 30-40 planes from scratch, and he still has ten of them.

Getting the right gear for the right plane is imperative, and if they don't have the plans, this can create hours of research on forums.

Everybody says it's a good hobby however it can get a bit expensive. On the other hand it provides hours of enjoyment and something you can do no matter the weather, including playing radio control flight simulators on the computer using the radio controller. Practising daredevil stunts, like flying inverted without risking hours of rebuilding. Chris Davenport said, "When you're flying inverted, down is up and up is awfully expensive."

The Latrobe Valley Model Aero Club has various levels of membership, for the time being they still have the airfield at the picturesque Lake Narracan, just down from the Caravan Park.

Visitors are welcome to watch on club fly days that are from 9 am on Sundays (unless it's a total fire ban, as that is always a no-fly day.)

Photographs by Tegan Dawson

Yak 54 takeoff

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THE TINY TEAPOT CAFÉ A funky café in the heart of Korumburra, serving only homemade food. The Tiny Teapot Café is spacious with beautiful natural light and a range of quirky retro fittings - a retro ambience but with a slight industrial touch - exposed brick interior walls and lightshades.

Come in and say hi to your hosts Cherie and Maria who prepare and cook all the food on the premises and will make you feel as if you are dropping into a friend’s place.

A range of clothes, giftware and jewellery for sale make it quite easy to stay a while. Stock, such as funky garden ornaments, hammocks or cushion covers all help make The Tiny Teapot

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Café a feast of colour and "there is always new stock coming in". For example, Oak Wood Sunglasses are walking out the door because they are the most "super comfy" sunglasses you'll ever wear.

Funky and unique, The Tiny Teapot Café has it all. Future plans for a full licence and the introduction of 'Kick Back Sundays' with acoustic music will only add to the difficulty of leaving the café once you have entered it.

So if it's an All Day Breakfast Menu you are after, the cafe's Eggs Benedict is a staple in Korumburra, a light lunch - Chicken and Avocado Panini or more substantial lunch Meat Lovers Pizza or Steak Sandwich, The Tiny Teapot Café has them all covered. Finishing with barista coffee or a range of herbal teas complimented with a fresh homemade muffin or slice, will see you make a commitment to yourself to come back sooner rather than later.

The café is also available for bookings up to 50 people for a sit down two-course meal.

"It's funky and we love it".

Words: Geoff Watt Photos: Wildwood Photography

BROTHERS Manny & Peter Gelagotis

The Gelagotis Brothers brand has taken Moe to the biggest races and beaten the best in Australia. Their rise within thoroughbred racing circles is a story of beating the odds against success in a highly competitive industry.

The Gelagotis brothers from Gippsland, Peter and Manny, revel in the thrill of sporting competition. Both showed considerable natural talent playing together on the soccer and AFL football fields in their younger years. Manny eventually became one of the region’s soccer stars playing in the National Soccer League and Peter has become one of the best horse trainers from Gippsland for many years.

Over the past 15 years, Peter and Manny have firmly established Gelagotis Racing as Gippsland’s premier stable, with a regular supply of well performed horses helping to build their growing reputation within the Sport of Kings.

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in ARMS

From their Moe base, the siblings have nurtured a winning formula for the operation of their business. Elder brother Peter, 48, does the hands-on work training the horses, leaving Manny, 46, to handle all the administrative aspects in the role of Racing Manager including communication with their owners.

According to Manny, he and Peter have quite different skills sets, which seem to complement each other very effectively.

“Peter has the practical horse sense and all the trade skills. He even helped the builders construct the premises where our family runs our restaurant and takeaway food business in Moe,” he says.

“I’m hopeless with my hands, but have a good eye for a horse which enables me to manage all our bloodstock purchasing and I also possess the skills to handle all the media, communications and paperwork.”

by Chris West

While Peter prefers to select his people that he likes to be around, Manny is more comfortable in the public eye and being the main point of contact for Gelagotis Racing’s clients.

“Me taking care of all the things I do lets Pete just concentrate on getting on with the business of training our horses, which is something he is extremely good at,” Manny says.

Peter and Manny caught the racing bug from their late father Michael, a migrant from the Greek island of Lesvos who arrived in Australia in the 1950s and made his mark in the food industry before also pursuing a side interest as a hobby trainer. The brothers inherited their father’s strong work ethic and will to succeed, qualities which have been instrumental in taking Gelagotis Racing to the top flight of the sport.

“We love to win. We’ve always hated losing at sports. I think that explains it all really,” Manny suggests.

“From day one we’ve been very competitive and we approach taking a horse to the races like going to war. Our aim is to win and I think that the success we have had has been a case of reward for a lot of hard work and preparation.”

“After deciding to run the horse, emotionally we had to dig bloody deep that day to get through, but it was amazing how it all turned out,” Manny reflects.

the original family name later on once we got married, which is exactly what we did, so now both of us and our own kids carry the original Gelagotis name,” Manny explains.

Peter and Manny’s father had been a hugely influential figure in their lives and his loss was a devastating blow to their family. He was a selfmade man who forged a remarkable story of his own.

Both brothers have also ensured that their father’s first name is carried on through the next generation of their family. Manny and his wife Vicki’s 10-year-old son is named Michael, as is the eldest of Peter and his wife Faye’s three children. Peter and Faye also have another son, Steven and daughter Messina.

Determination is another inherited quality that defines Peter and Manny’s approach to business and life.

Michael’s name is also carried on through the family’s successful food business at 50 George Street in Moe, which comprises Michaels Golden Hen Moe Takeaway Food Shop and the adjoining Silks Restaurant On George.

“Part of the way we roll is to never give up and fight tooth and nail for something we think is right,” Manny says.

“We’re both strong boys. Once we make up our mind about something, there’s no turning back.

Ultimately, Peter is the boss. As a family, we look to him to have the final say. When Pete stamps the fist down, all bets are off. I understand and respect that,” he adds.

In racing circles, the Gelagotis brothers and their owners have become renowned for their exuberant post-race celebrations around the winner’s stall in the mounting yard, particularly whenever notching yet another notable success.

“When you take a horse to the track and they win, it’s a big thrill and that comes through in how we celebrate.

We are passionate people and racing can be such an exciting sport,” Manny states.

For both brothers, undoubtedly their most emotional afternoon at the races unfolded on Caulfield Cup Day in October 2012, just three days after losing their father Michael to cancer at the age of 73. Stricken with grief, Peter and Manny elected to press ahead with the plan to run their emerging three-year-old middle distance galloper Hvasstan in the Norman Robinson Stakes, a Group 3 race over 2000 metres. When Hvasstan duly won in a heartstopping photo finish, it was no surprise that the emotions overflowed amidst incredible scenes in the mounting yard at Caulfield.

Mourinho winning the 2015 Underwood Stakes at Caulfield

Although his name lives on, Michael’s loss is still felt strongly through the family and the local Moe community, “Chicken Mick”, as he was widely known, was a very popular and generous community man.

“Mum has done it tough since losing dad,” Manny says.

Upon immigrating to Australia unaccompanied at the age of just 16, he headed far from Melbourne to Birchip in the Wimmera where he established a cafe and extended his business to supplying fruit and vegetables to shops in the district.

“She still lives on the property where we train our horses, so she gets to see Peter every day which is a good thing.”

Manny describes his father as a hard task master but remembers him with deep affection.

It was through the fruit and vegetable run that Michael eventually met his future wife Effie in her hometown of Sealake when he was in his late twenties. They married and produced two sons.

Peter was born in Birchip in 1967 and Manny followed two years later after the couple had moved to Nhill.

“Dad was really strict with us, particularly tough on Peter. He was a typical, hard-working migrant guy who loved the punt and playing cards. Dad had trotting horses when he was in the Wimmera, then greyhounds in Warragul and progressed to thoroughbred gallopers.”

The family later ventured south to Melbourne, before relocating to Gippsland firstly to Warragul and then finally to Moe in 1976 when Peter was in Grade 6 at Primary School and Manny in Grade 4.

Having been settled in Moe for around 15 years, Michael purchased a boutique 8 acre property on the outskirts of the town in 1991 to enable him to expand his interest in thoroughbreds and still acts as the base for Gelagotis Racing today.

Like many migrants, Michael Gelagotis abbreviated his surname after he settled in Australia, becoming known simply as Gotis.

“Dad had horses with Sale trainer Kevin Ruff and then started dabbling with them himself. He would then often buy tried horses from larger city stables like Lindsay Park or Crown Lodge and just potter around with them as a hobby.

Then we started to breed a couple ourselves and bought some yearlings that turned out to be quite good,” Manny recalls.

“Peter and I used the Gelagotis name at school, then we were known as Gotis upon reaching mature age and when we were playing sport.

We agreed that we would change it back to

Peter & Manny Gelagotis celebrating a win

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Manny Gelagotis with Hvasstan after purchasing him for $260,000 as a yearling at the Inglis Premier Sale

By the late 1990s, Michael was finding it difficult to combine his expanding food business interests in Moe with sufficient time to devote to the horses.

“Dad told Peter and I that he couldn’t keep going as things were and that one of us would have to step up with the horses or we’d have to pack it in,” Manny says.

“I was playing soccer full time then so Pete took a horse to Moonee Valley for him and it won.

That was the start of it for us. We had always been interested in dad’s horses, but never to the extent that it would become what it has.

Really, we just started out to have some fun.”

his parents would not allow him to take up the opportunity. However, he did progress further with his soccer, reaching the National League with Gippsland Falcons and representing Victoria.

Over the past 15 years, Gelagotis Racing has steadily turned its operation from a fledgling outfit to a highly professional stable that is able to compete for the rich prize money attached to major races.

Manny ended up making an enormous contribution to soccer in the Latrobe Valley area through playing, coaching and development of the sport. An uncompromising, no nonsense defensive player blessed with the ability to read the game well, he was already games record holder at the Morwell Falcons before leaving the club briefly for a stint with Port Melbourne, where he played under former Australian Socceroos coach Frank Arok.

“We built up an excellent relationship and friendship with some of our foundation owners such as brothers Steve and Paul Moss, who we came in contact with through their role as directors of Ridders Fresh, and we also were introduced to former AFL football star Greg Williams. They were the catalyst for spreading our network and once we started having success our ownership base began to grow and more importantly became great mates,” Manny says.

In an unexpected twist, Arok then landed the coaching job at the Gippsland Falcons, which the Morwell Falcons had rebranded themselves for their participation in the elite National Soccer League competition. Arok had no hesitation in inviting Manny to accompany him back to his former home club and he continued playing until the age of 31.

“I reckon Peter had the potential to reach just as high a level as me but never had the chance and Arok certainly taught me some life-long lessons and skills which I will never forget,” Manny comments.

Peter was granted a Permit to Train by Racing Victoria and gained his initial education in the craft by learning from his father and by talking to successful trainers including Tony Vasil at Caulfield, Pakenham-based Eric Musgrove and local Moe horseman Barry Bennett.

“Fortunately, Peter is a gifted guy and picked it up very quickly. I am personally thrilled that he has been able to get to the top of his profession because he had to give up his sport earlier than me in order to achieve what he has in racing,” Manny says.

Both brothers starred at soccer and football in the local region during their youthful years.

Manny was drafted by Footscray in the AFL but

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“We both had pretty decorated sporting careers in local competitions in Gippsland growing up from a very young age. Peter played and was a premiership player in the Victorian Premier League with soccer and could have gone further, but the racehorse training became his priority. I still had time to mix sport with my role in the business which was a bonus for me at the time.”

Manny no longer has an active involvement with local soccer, but is President of the Moe Football Netball Club. He is also a member of the Moe Rotary Club, current President of the Committee For Moe and a former board member of the Committee For Gippsland.

Talented horses that helped set Peter and Manny on their way in the early days of their operation included the handy gallopers Lesvos Ruler and Sir Rosebank, which Michael initially prepared before handing to Peter when he took over the training duties along with Wonder Worker, Meadow and Crying Storm to name a few.

“Our family bred Lesvos Ruler ourselves, Meadow was purchased off Lloyd Williams and was our first good horse with Greg Williams, but I’d say it was Crying Storm that really started to lift our profile,” Manny explains.

Crying Storm won eight races in Victoria and South Australia, highlighted by the Hill Smith Stakes in Adelaide in 2004. Four of his victories were in jumps races.

As the winners started to flow, Peter and Manny also made improvements to the facilities at their property and began to adopt a more professional outlook towards their racing business, including expanding their staff numbers and engaging better service providers and suppliers which really helped the stable boost its flow of winners.

“We started to use premium people to do a premium job. In terms of Gippsland, we started to do things better than the other trainers,” Manny says.

Other horses that maintained the momentum for Gelagotis Racing included 2009 Moe Cup winner and 2010 Gippsland Horse of the Year Savquaw, 2011 Gippsland Horse of the Year Belgietto, Floramour, Big Col, Hvasstan and Module, winner of the Bagot Handicap at Flemington on New Year’s Day in 2013.

The aforementioned Hvasstan often took on the best of his generation during a career which produced four victories, but perhaps his two finest performances came in defeat when finishing fourth in two of Victoria’s Group One classic races for three-year-olds being the 2012 VRC Derby and 2013 Australian Guineas at Flemington where he was most unlucky on both occasions.

Now aged six, Hvasstan was retired in June last year and is currently standing as a stallion at Clear Mountain Stud in Queensland. Peter and Manny have retained an ownership interest in the son of Fastnet Rock for his breeding career and hope to race some of his progeny in the future.

The present stars of the Gelagotis Racing stable are Group 1 winner Mourinho and new acquisition The Cleaner.

Carrying the name of former Chelsea, Real Madrid and Porto soccer manager and selfanointed “Special One” Jose Mourinho, the eight-year-old gelding has certainly been special himself to Gelagotis Racing since being purchased by Manny as a yearling at the Sydney Classic Sale for just $36,000.

In 40 career starts to date, Mourinho has won 11 times and amassed over $1.3 million in prize money. He has won at Group and Listed level

on seven occasions, highlighted by a typically gutsy win in the Group 1 Underwood Stakes at Caulfield last Spring.

Like Mourinho, The Cleaner is an eight-yearold gelding with a remarkably consistent racing record. His 54 starts to date have produced 19 wins and over $1.3 million in prize money.

“He was always going to be a really nice horse,” Manny states.

“He won a pretty weak Tasmanian Derby as a three-year-old, but as an older horse has really gone to a level we didn’t really expect, particularly as he went amiss with a tendon injury earlier in his career.”

Mourinho has commenced an Autumn campaign likely to be directed towards the Australian Cup at Flemington in March or some of the major events at The Championships in Sydney. His main Spring mission is undecided as yet.

“We contested the Cox Plate with him last year, but are not sure if that will be his target again this Spring. At this stage of Mourinho’s career, we need to maximise our opportunities with him now and his form will tell us which direction to take,” Manny says.

Plans are also not definite with new acquisition The Cleaner, the courageous front running Tasmanian gelding that was recently transferred to the care of Gelagotis Racing by his owners.

Once an admired and respected rival to Mourinho, it is exciting for the Gelagotis brothers to now have The Cleaner as part of their own team.

The decision by The Cleaner’s connections to remove their horse from Tasmanian trainer Mick Burles caused considerable controversy.

With Burles having been experiencing health problems, the owners decided that their hugely popular horse should be trained on the mainland and eventually elected to entrust Gelagotis Racing with the responsibility.

“No-one feels more for Mick Burles than us,” Manny insists.

“He is understandably upset about losing the horse, but the owners have the right to make that call. We have endeavoured to keep Mick engaged and involved wherever we can, including continuing the use of his colors and communicating with him about the horse’s work load and condition.”

The Gelagotis brothers are always on the lookout for new horses to add to their team and welcome ownership enquiries from new clients at any time.

“We’ll be very active at the yearling sales again this year,” Manny promises.

“He’s settled in beautifully, but has a couple of niggles which we’re trying to settle down,” Manny reports.

The stable boxes at their Moe property can accommodate up to 25 horses in training at any one time and they presently have a team of approximately 30 gallopers on their books, some of which have yet to race.

“Peter has a really good reconditioning program for horses with leg injuries. He’s giving The Cleaner a light program and we’ll just potter around with him and turn him out with a view to having a Spring campaign starting nice and fresh hopefully in our care. He’ll be assessed on an ongoing basis and if he doesn’t make it through, then he won’t race on. There’s no pressure from the owners and it’s critical the horse’s welfare comes first.”

Despite all the success they have enjoyed, Manny says he and Peter’s long-term future in racing is uncertain. He is frustrated by several elements of the sport’s current model from a national, state and local perspective. Areas of concern include the condition of tracks and training facilities, an excessive number of trainers, integrity problems, horse welfare issues and restrictions on medications and therapeutic options available to trainers.

“Although the positive aspects about racing still far outweigh the negatives, we won’t be in the game forever. It’s changing a lot and is a tough lifestyle for the trainers and jockeys who try to earn their living from this caper. Somewhere along the line, Peter and I will get tired of it, but I think we’ll always own horses,” Manny suggests.

“Whenever the day does come that we finish the training business, we’ll be able to look back on it and say it’s been an unbelievable ride that took us to the top and that Peter Gelagotis was a self-taught Group One trainer which is an incredible achievement.”

Photographs supplied courtesy of Colin Bull and Gelagotis Racing

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Geoff Watt

3AW ‘Pub of the Year’ IS IT A DREAM TO EVENTUALLY RETURN TO THE TOWN WHERE YOU GREW UP AND PURCHASE THE PUB THAT YOU FREQUENTED AS A TEENAGER? IF THE PUB ALSO WAS YOUR GREAT GRANDFATHER'S 'WATERING HOLE', I GUESS THINGS MUST BE A BIT SPECIAL. Family stories tell the tale of co-owner Damien Gannon's great grandfather saying he was "coming in to town to get the mail and then sneaking in to have a couple of scotches". Even Damien's dad has his own stories of himself as a lad drinking at the Tinamba Hotel.

Damien grew up on the family dairy farm in Tinamba and then as an adult "was a dairy farmer for 28 years". Damien says that he "fell into hospitality" when he met Brad Neilson around 1998 and I am glad that we all can now enjoy his wonderfully warm conversational skills which would have been wasted on his cows!

The other half of the couple is Brad Neilson, born and bred in Traralgon. Brad always had an attraction to design and after finishing school became a graphic artist for five years - however the work didn't satisfy his creative energy nor did being confined to a desk all day. He then did a hospitality course and spent time working on the Gold Coast and Townsville. When he returned to Victoria some years later he was well experienced and began managing restaurants and bars. It is a reflection of his skills and drive that within a couple of years of returning home he had bought his first restaurant. I guess it was a natural progression for someone who has so much energy, passion and drive to buy his own restaurant and apply his creative energies and vision to transforming the business into something far beyond what he had purchased.

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time, so Tinamba Hotel was their 'local' and they drove every day to work in Traralgon (they now live in Traralgon and drive each day to work in Tinamba!).

Brad's earliest memories of his interest in interior design are of a neighbour growing up: "She had this house full of antiques and used to have dinner parties and we'd be invited over from time to time.

Everything would be silver service; there would be soup from a beautiful tureen and homemade breads and I was fascinated by it all. She had this amazing oval table with balloon-backed chairs in red velvet which I thought were beautiful. There was a lot of antique furniture and I look at our house now and it's almost a museum full of antiques - I didn't know where I got that from but it may have been from her." It's interesting how certain experiences when we are young can help shape us as adults.

Brad bought Cafe G in 1998 in Traralgon, changed its name and transformed it into 'Neilsons' and ran it with Damien very successfully for 10 years - being included in the Age Good Food Guide.

Brad and Damien were living in Tinamba at the

When asked if they had their eye on the Tinamba Hotel, Brad says, "No, we had sold the restaurant in Traralgon to get out of hospitality or at least get something simpler that didn't involve nights.

We had been looking at smaller daytime cafes in the city and for some reason one night I came home (they were living in Melbourne at the time) and typed 'Tinamba' into Google and up comes 'Tinamba Hotel for sale'. We rang the agent and said we would like to have a look - we were more curious than anything". As is their talent, they immediately had a clear vision for it as Brad explains: "We wanted to create a destination hotel. Every other region in Victoria had one but Gippsland didn't, and we thought we could make something of it." That was six and a half years ago.

The interior of the Tinamba Hotel is incredible and Damien pointed out that it was all Brad's vision. Brad is an incredible interior designer and Damien is only too happy to stand aside and let Brad weave his magic in this area. Brad has a natural flare for transforming spaces and creating exquisite colours and textures to enhance them.

"I can visualise things and I know exactly what I want in my head. I very rarely have to put things down on paper." He has that creative vision to see potential and the drive to bring the vision into

the real world for the rest of us to enjoy. The pub they had bought had a typical 1980's style wood grain interior and Brad has transformed it into a space that would not be out of place in inner Melbourne.

Of course for any hotel to draw people to it from outside the immediate area, it has to offer a complete experience. The Tinamba was always going to have the decor and ambience because of Brad's interior design skills and it was always going to be run well and have such a welcoming atmosphere because of Brad and Damien's people skills - the remaining piece to fall into place was the food. Brad and Damien secured a great Chef in Paul who has been there from the start and whom would have learnt much about designing top class menus from his bosses.

The Tinamba has an incredible ever-changing menu. Go there any day for lunch or dinner (Wednesday to Saturday - lunch only on Sundays) and you will have a wonderful choice of Starters and Entrees, Mains and Desserts.

Then if you go back the next week the whole menu will be changed! That is the quality of the food and menu design at Tinamba Hotel. Where possible they source their produce locally, and also have their own Hotel Garden to supplement the fresh herbs and vegetables. They also have a selection of over 120 local and imported wines to complement your meal.

The fine food and wine that Tinamba Hotel provides was recently acknowledged in the most positive way by winning the 3AW Pub of the Year!

Damien shares the story: "Back in June, Tony Leonard came here for lunch. I could here him talking and recognised that the voice was familiar.

We do a special two-course main and dessert for $30 Wednesday to Saturday and Tony dropped in for lunch and was blown away. A week later on 3AW he talked about how good our meal was and gave us a huge rap. Straight away the phone started ringing with people asking, "where is Tinamba?" Then we had quite a few people coming in from Melbourne saying they had heard

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about us on 3AW. Tony then interviewed me on the phone a week or two later and he just kept mentioning us on the radio.

Finally 3AW were announcing their 'Pub of the Year' in December. Tony called me and asked if I could come down for the announcement. At first I didn't think I would be able to get there". Luckily Damien did manage to get down to Melbourne on the day because Brad and Damien were the winners! And of course as soon as it was announced, the telephone at the hotel went crazy again. Brad and Damien now find that Tinamba Hotel is on people's radar - those coming from Melbourne and heading for the Lakes, make a slight detour off the highway for a more scenic route and stop in for a meal.

The Tinamba Hotel also specialises in functions including weddings up to 100 sit down (150 cocktail), and Brad and Damien consult with their clients and personalise the menus. Function food is prepared by the same chef and is of the exact same high quality as their restaurant cuisine.

Brad and Damien are an incredible couple and business team. Drop in to the Tinamba Hotel and you will be welcomed warmly. It truly is a special place and both Brad and Damien will make you feel as if you have known them for years. Also, if you do want to taste and experience their fine dining, be sure to book ahead or you may be disappointed.

Tinamba Hotel 4-6- Tinamba-Seaton Road, Tinamba 03 5145-1484 www.tinambahotel.com.au Photographs: Wildwood Photography

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East Gippsland's Ultimate

Wedding Venue

BOUTIQUE

ACCOMODATION

&

FUNCTION

The Riversleigh is the perfect location for your Gippsland wedding. Combining a unique location with picturesque gardens, stylish period elegance, modern facilities, boutique accommodation and on-site catering.

The Riversleigh simply has it all.

For information on wedding packages please visit our website www.riversleigh.com.au/weddings or call Rachel to make an appointment on 03 5152 6966

1 Nicholson Street, Bairnsdale, 3875 PH: 03 5152 6966 E: info@riversleigh.com.au W: www.riversleigh.com.au

VENUE

recipe FISH WINGS Chef Shane Coles

|

Nautica Restaurant and Bar Metung

Wings are the side of the fish just behind the head with the pectoral fin and under fin. You can ask your fishmonger to cut them from the fish frame once the fish has been filleted. Serves 3-4 depending on size of wings. You can use any type of fish but I find Snapper or Blue Eye and Barramundi the best (or any firm white fleshed fish). The meat inside is tasty soft and succulent.

INGREDIENTS 1 kg fish wings 300 grams plain flour 250 grams rice flour 1 tbs garlic powder 1 tbs onion powder 1/2 tsp chilli powder fresh lemon to serve 100 grams roquette to serve Oil for deep frying

METHOD Check wings to make sure they are clean and have no scales on them.

Sift all flour and powders in a large bowl. Heat oil, in fryer or on gas stove in wok. Heat oil to 180 degrees. Toss wings in spiced flour and dust off.

Drop in to hot oil and fry for about six minutes or until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper and season with salt and pepper.

Season roquette with some red wine vinegar and olive oil and place on plate with wings on top standing up. And finish with the lemon wedges.

Hours | Wednesday to Saturday: Breakfast & Lunch 8.00am to 2.30pm | Dinner: 5.30pm to Late Sunday: Breakfast & Lunch 8.00am to 3.00pm 50 Metung Road, Metung, Vic 3904 Phone: (03) 5156 2345

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Hours Wednesday to Saturday: Breakfast & Lunch 8.00am to 2.30pm | Dinner: 5.30pm to Late Sunday: Breakfast & Lunch 8.00am to 3.00pm 50 Metung Road, Metung, Vic 3904 Phone: (03) 5156 2345 Follow us on Facebook

Fully Licensed | Catering Available for Functions | Restaurant Available for Private Functions

Mediterranean Style Food, Pizza, Pasta, Fish & Chips, Burgers, Souvlakis, Salads All our pasta sauces and pizza bases are house made, as well as our delicious cakes and desserts, using local produce; supporting local producers and providing local produce to our customers.

3/57 Metung Road, Metung 3904 Ph: 5156 2080

OPENING HOURS Breakfast & Lunch Fri to Sun from 8:30am - 3.00pm Dinner Wed to Sun from 5:30pm Closed Monday and Tuesday Like Us on Facebook

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Conference Centre & Weddings

Conference Centre Make your next conference, corporate event or meeting, not only memorable, but effective. Move away from the distractions of the city and embrace a fresh frame of mind. Feel like the sole occupants on the acreage of the retreat, where you can involve and excite the whole group, with team building and recreational activities you can only get when you step out of the CBD. The spacious and flexible format of the conference centre ensures the ideal venue for your particular function. The centre can comfortably fit 50 in meeting style, with room for formal dining and conference facilities in the one area. You have a choice of self catering or we can cater for you.

The conference centre has a separate tea/coffee/bar area, fully stocked commercial kitchen, Coonara heater, separate foyer area and separate disabled toilet.

Whether you are wanting to use our centre for a training session, conference or just for a relaxation group, all of our retreat amenities are available for your use: Indoor solar heated pool, outdoor mineral spa, bikes, canoes, kayaks, tennis courts and a large selection of DVD’s.

Even a stroll around the grounds should be part of the business of the day as our resident wildlife including birds and kangaroos can make a pleasant distraction.

Attendees can unwind in their own fully self-contained lodges before dinner or in the morning before breakfast.

As a special incentive, a spouse package can be arranged for those delegates who would like to bring a partner and/or family.

Weddings The retreat is a unique setting for a wedding, ceremony, reception and accommodation, all in one place. You and your guests can enjoy our facility and all it offers for the whole weekend, whilst celebrating and just spending time with family and friends. The conference centre can formally seat up to 100. You only need to decide on your caterer and decorator.

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“4.5 Star Self Contained Accommodation, with Waterfront and Bush Views Wedding and Conference Centre on the Gippsland Lakes in Eastern Victoria” Rem arkable Holiday Retre at Fe at u r e s o f t h e Re s o rt 19 Self-contained lodges ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms, each with its own secluded privacy (including disabled friendly lodges) with either bush or water views On the shore of Lake Victoria Gippsland Lakes - East Gippsland with a private jetty Perfect for Holidays, Special Occasions, Celebrations, Child Friendly Indoor Heated Pool and Spa Tennis Court Complimentary canoes, kayaks, bicycles and DVD’s Interact with the residential wildlife Conference centre packages with accommodation Function Centre for Business, Events and Weddings – seating up to 100 people Make your next conference, corporate event or meeting, not only memorable, but also effective. Move away from the distractions of the city and embrace a fresh frame of mind. Feel like the sole occupants on the acreage of the retreat, where you can involve and excite the whole group, with team building and recreational activities you can only get when you step out of the CBD.

200 Wattle Point Road Forge Creek 3875

Phone: 03 5157 7517

Email: info@wattlepointholiday.com.au

Web: www.waterfrontretreat.com.au

GARDENING with CraigGoodman Q. When is the best time to move plants that have struggled in Summer to a better spot?

A. If plants are struggling in certain positions in your garden this summer there could be a number of simple remedies: Your plant may just simply be lacking attention. Plants are living creatures just like you and I.

to start with, to keep up the scent ensuring you are sending a strong message to them. Remember if you water frequently or we have rain it is important to reapply the product, maintaining a high scent.

You will find the cat will move on hopefully far away from your backyard.

Q. What do you consider are the best plants for hedges?

We all enjoy a regular drink along with a good feed. It can be as simple as this, which will make your garden thrive, bringing plants back to life and maintain them in good health.

It may just be that some plants are planted in the wrong spot for them.

If so move them, the best time generally being Autumn or Winter, dig them out with as much soil as is practical, and remember to give them a hair cut. Drop them in a new position remembering to feed and water on a regular basis. Remember when purchasing new plants for your garden to ask whether the plant you like should be in full sun, shade etc.

Q. It has been a dry summer, the lawn has faded, what do you suggest to assist in growing the lawn?

A. If your lawn is looking a bit tired, Autumn is the best time to regenerate.

In Autumn the soil temperature is still very warm making it easy for lawns to respond to what you do for them.

Autumn is the optimum time to re-sow new lawns. Fertilise existing lawns and lime your lawn. Now that the sting of hot summer has past bring your lawn back to health before Winter.

If you have had weeds establish in your lawn over Summer, now is the time to spray and eliminate them. Sprays work much more effectively while weeds are actively growing. Repeat spraying may be necessary to kill all weeds.

Remember to cut your lawn higher than you normally would and you will enjoy a much healthier green lawn.

Q. I have a problem with cats in the garden and what do you suggest I do to keep them off the garden?

Daphne Eternal Fragrance

A. Hedging plants come in all forms and sizes.

There are plants for windbreak hedges, lower screening plants for privacy from the neighbours to low hedges used to replace the front fence or provide a border.

Tall windbreak trees include some conifer varieties, evergreen natives and good old fashioned photinias. There is also some large growing lilly pilly varieties.

Medium screen plants include conifers, evergreen magnolias, pittosporums, sasanqua camellias, portugese laurel, osmanthus and a selection of native. Another fantastic addition to the medium screen or hedge is a plant called backyard bliss. This very dense foliage plant provides height to around 3 metres or so, but only to about 1.5 metres wide. The new growth changes colour and growth is moderate to fast. If you’re looking for a low or dwarf hedge, dutch box is excellent.

There is of course many different forms of box plants to choose from. Dwarf forms of camellia are easily maintained providing abundant flowers in Autumn and Winter. Daphne eternal fragrance is a newer form of daphne, which grows in full sun flowering with fragrance several times through the year.

A. If you have cats in your garden that are causing unpleasant issues, then you need to encourage them to go elsewhere.

There are several animal deterants available in sprays, granular and gels which can be effective. These products are non-toxic to both animals and humans but can make your outdoor experience much better. The secret with these products is very regular applications

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Sasanqua Camellias

hope this is helpful.

Craig

At Grow Master Traralgon inspiration awaits you.

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.

111

Hours | Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm Saturday to Sunday 9.00am - 5.00pm 62 Argyle St, Traralgon Vic 3844 Ph: (03) 5174 2861 Em: growmastertraralgon@yahoo.com.au www.growmaster.com.au/traralgon

thelifestyle spring 2014

watch

by Chris West

A mysterious recent sighting has again raised the question as to whether the presumed extinct thylacine, or Tasmanian tiger as the species of carnivorous marsupial was better known, is in fact alive and well and living a clandestine existence in the dense scrub land of South Gippsland.

What started as a typical early December morning for Venus Bay Caravan Park proprietor, Tony Holgate soon became far from routine.

Rising around dawn, Tony began his work duties in preparation for the day ahead.

Sometime between 5.15am and 5.30am, while driving slowly around the grounds of the park, his eyes turned to a group of animals that caught his attention on a vacant grass site near the toilet block.

In the clear morning light, Tony instantly comprehended that there was something unusual about the small mob of kangaroos that had come into his vision.

“There was another animal with them that I had never seen before. The kangaroos didn’t seem threatened by it in any way and it was as if they were all together,” Tony explains.

“At first I thought it was a fox but I soon realised it wasn’t that. I knew it wasn’t a dog or cat either, so then I began to try to figure out exactly what it was. We get a lot of animals roaming here in the park, including kangaroos, foxes, wombats and possums, but this was different,” he insists.

Tony describes the animal’s height as similar to a medium size dog, but with a distinctive feature being several stripes on its back.

“It also had a strange walk, more of a lope which was quite unusual and different,” he recalls.

Tony Holgate at the site where he spotted the Tasmanian tiger

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Tony was able to observe the animals from his vehicle, but did not have a camera handy and does not own a mobile phone, which would have enabled him to capture the moment on film.

“I was just watching them. The kangaroos looked at me. The other animal, which I couldn’t identify looked at me. I was about twenty metres away and reckon I would have watched them for about thirty seconds. As I tried to drive closer, they all ran a little way up the hill and stopped up there,” he says.

Having moved to safer ground, the mysterious animal turned and stared back at Tony. As he again attempted to drive closer, it and the kangaroos ran off and disappeared from sight.

No other witnesses were on hand to substantiate Tony’s account and verify what he had seen that morning. It was prior to the holiday season rush and the few guests staying in the park at that time were still fast asleep in their beds. But Tony was left in no doubt as to what he had seen.

“I have looked at plenty of old photos of Tasmanian tigers over the years and that is pretty much what I saw,” he states.

“I haven’t seen this animal in the park before and I haven’t seen it since. I am hoping that it might come back now that all the noise of the busy holiday period has passed and settled back down.”

The park’s cleaner Kylie Anderson had previously reported seeing a Tasmanian tiger in the grounds near a tent. Her description of the animal matched what Tony saw back in December. An overseas guest staying at the park had also made a similar observation in the weeks before Tony’s sighting.

Word of Tony’s encounter soon captured the attention of the mainstream media, all eagerly looking to find evidence of the Tasmanian tiger’s existence. He does not have the persona of a publicity seeker, but courteously agreed to all the interview requests to recount his Tiger tale.

Tony says the reaction to his story from the general public has been remarkable.

“I reckon I’ve been contacted by at least one hundred people who have seen the same sort of animal in the area over the past thirty years,” he estimates.

“They just wanted to tell me that I wasn’t stupid and that I’m not going crazy. They all said they’ve seen it too, but don’t say anything because people won’t believe them. These were local people here from Venus Bay and Tarwin, down as far as the Prom.”

Numerous reports of possible Tasmanian tiger sightings have been recorded in various parts of Australia since the last known thylacine died in captivity at Hobart Zoo eighty years ago in 1936. South Gippsland is a known hotspot for sightings, many of which have generally occurred in various locations along the coastal strip. Numerous sightings have also been reported in several other parts of Gippsland, including towns such as Briagolong and places further to both the east and west. Loch Sport in the lakes region is another destination where Tony at his Caravan Park

Tasmanian Tigers In captivity prior to their extinction

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the Tasmanian tiger is often claimed to have been spotted.

The Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania website describes the thylacine as looking like a large, long dog with stripes, a heavy stiff tail and a big head. Its scientific name, Thylacinus cynocephalus, means pouched dog with a wolf’s head. Fully grown it measured about 180 cm (6 ft) from nose to tail tip, stood about 58 cm (2 ft) high at the shoulder and weighed up to 30 kg. The short, soft fur was brown except for 13 - 20 dark brown-black stripes that extended from the base of the tail to almost the shoulders.

Thylacines were one of only two marsupials that had a pouch in both the female and male sexes.

The species was shy and avoided contact with humans. It had a quiet, nervous temperament compared to its little cousin, the Tasmanian devil. It is stated that the thylacine was rarely seen to move fast, but when it did it appeared awkward. A common link in most Tasmanian tiger sighting claims, including Tony Holgate’s recent experience, is the description of the animal’s unusual and ungainly walk.

It is believed that the thylacine’s existence on the Australian mainland ended around 2000 years ago and that by the time of European settlement only a small population of the species remained in isolation on Tasmania. The numbers declined

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on tiger watch now that the latest sighting has failed to materialise into anything more conclusive?

steadily through the late 1800s and early 1900s through a combination of hunting by humans, habitat loss, attack from other natural predators and the effects of disease.

So how could a species which has been declared extinct possibly still be living in Gippsland, managing successfully to continue to avoid capture either in the flesh or on camera for so long? One popular theory centres on various historical reports that in 1910 or thereabouts an amateur organisation called the Thylacine Preservation Society reputedly brought a small number of the animals to the Victorian mainland and released them at Wilson’s Promontory, leaving them to hopefully survive and breed in the wild.

But are they really out there? Is there any real need for Gippslanders to keep themselves

Until there is indisputable proof, reports of Tasmanian tiger sightings will always be treated with scepticism by many people. Often they are dismissed as a case of mistaken identity or the work of an overactive imagination. Counter explanations are often offered by experts, usually suggesting the animal in question was more likely to be a diseased fox or something with a similar appearance such as a wild dog.

But the doubters don’t bother Tony Holgate and others who are adamant they have spotted the elusive thylacine. For them, their tantalising encounter is stamped indelibly in their memory and certain to remain a unique moment in time that they will never forget.

If anyone would like to share any of their own Tasmanian Tiger sighting stories please do so via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/lifestylegippsland/

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THE OLD PUB est1884

BOOLARRA

Geoff Watt

'The Old Pub' in Boolarra is a wonderful historic building built in 1884, originally as a hotel and boarding house next to the original railway line.

It is a beautiful old bluestone building (with full veranda) worthy of everyone's interest to see and experience. The building has housed many businesses and personalities throughout the years and means much to the town of Boolarra and surrounds, having been at various times in its life a hotel, boarding house, B&B, function centre (weddings et cetera), restaurant and of course a home.

How wonderful then for Gippsland that 'The Old Pub' has once again opened its doors to the public, this time as a fine cafe. I caught up with its operators Luke Dunkley and Caz Hyne over one of Luke's beautifully made coffees, to discover their individual story.

Luke and Caz each have many years experience in the hospitality industry, Luke particularly having "been involved in hospitality since the age of 13" through his parents' various businesses when he was growing up.

An old sign that Luke helped paint while on work experience as a youngster takes pride of place in the beer garden area of 'The Old Pub' - it advertises Luke's father's business on the northern NSW coast from some 25 years ago 'Dunkleys Ice Creamery'.

Luke and Caz met working together in hospitality at a former iconic Southbank restaurant and spent many years in and around inner Melbourne's best hospitality spots, when

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the idea of a tree change started to take shape.

'The Old Pub' was attractive to them as a transition from the city to the country as Luke recalls: "We had always loved this building and had a passion to reignite the history of the building for the local community". Caz adds: "We also wanted to create something that is truly unique in the area".

Luke's family had used the building as a home, so the last business in the building had closed

some 13 or so years ago. Needless to say, the passion, effort and expense to get the building up to the standard of a 'licensed cafe' has been fraught with hurdles and frustrations before the final joy of actually opening in March, 2015.

Because the building wasn't housing an existing business but was a home, all inspections and permits had to be obtained. Caz explains: "We quit our jobs and moved down from Melbourne straight away thinking everything would happen quite quickly" but then the delays experienced

(i.e. getting approvals re accessibility, energy efficiency and fire safety) without any income coming in was at times stressful. "We ended up opening our doors a good 12 months later than we had expected.�

To push through life's difficulties can make one more determined and focused, and it certainly helps shape them. Luke and Caz are a great team together and what they have developed 'The Old Pub' into is something very special indeed. They feel strongly about sourcing quality local ingredients for their food and providing an outlet for all the fine local wineries that Gippsland has to offer. Olives from Fish Creek, berries from the Boolarra Berry Farm, native herbs from Brushtail Bush Foods, Hopefarm Bread and local eggs and meat.Caz has her own herb garden that she uses in her cooking as well as growing her own lemons, figs and limes. She has also planted an avocado tree, which is not too far away from producing fruit and this too will eventually be incorporated into the in-house cooking. The coffee is brewed to perfection by Luke and the tea connoisseur will be glad to read that the tea at 'The Old Pub' is loose leaf. A range of organic herbal tea blends is also available.

Part of the uniqueness and beauty of this old building is the different areas it has for people to sit and while away the afternoon. Luke and

Caz have provided four wonderful but quite distinct seating areas for their patrons - under the veranda at the front overlooking Boolarra's beautiful open park areas, in the historic bar area, a beautiful natural light-filled atrium area inside, and a relaxing beer garden outside at the rear, that even has its own couch! All are great spaces to spend an afternoon with a meal and good wine or beer.

'The Old Pub' has an evolving menu of seventeen items available all day, ranging from light snacks to more substantial meals. A full licence is held and they showcase the local and bespoke with a broad selection of International Beers as well as Australian Micro Breweries, together with the best local wines. 'The Old Pub' is available for functions providing quality finger food and drinks for up to eighty people.

A Bar Snack Menu, Saturday Night Set Menu Dinners, Live Music and showcasing a local 'Winery of the Month' are plans on the radar for 'The Old Pub'.

As Luke and Caz guide 'The Old Pub' into the future we can only hope that this quality business continues to be well supported and appreciated by us Gippslanders, to enable it to be the best it can be. It would be a wonderful affirmation of the creative passion that Luke and Caz have put into a building and area that they love.

Photographs: Wildwood Photography

The Old Pub 20A Duke St. Boolarra Ph: 5169-6447 info@theoldpubboolarra.com.au

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e-commerce

I was being driven home via taxi recently, and after being prompted as to what I do for a living (i.e. build websites), the driver said he was looking to start up an e-commerce website.

He wanted to specialise in white goods and related products, but otherwise he didn't have much of an idea as to go about setting up his hypothetical website.

E-commerce websites, to be certain, are more involved than a 'standard' website; you're looking to attract potential customers that will buy the products you're offering. Underlying that is the need to offer a hassle-free customer experience requiring the end user to jump through as little hoops as possible to make a purchase. And even beyond that, you need to position yourself to actually deliver the product you're selling.

WHO IS YOUR TARGET MARKET?

Is there a demand for your product(s) or service(s)? You need to position yourself and your site as a solution to your potential customer's demands, and thus fulfil their needs.

HAVE YOU DECIDED ON A BUSINESS NAME?

Again, nail this down ahead of time, and research if your planned business name is not being used by another company. Trademark conflicts can arise if due diligence is not carried out, and once you're satisfied your chosen business name is unique, you're in a position to set your business up as a professional, legal company. A separate business banking account is also recommended. Definitely get the advice of an Accountant and Lawyer here.

Below is a list of items you'll need to tick off to ensure that you're ready to step into the world of e- commerce.

WHAT ARE YOU SELLING?

Are you selling an individual product, a range thereof, or a service? Specificity is key here.

Start with a few and go from there.

WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS MODEL?

Do you know which item will generate the largest profit margin? Do you offer a moneyback guarantee, warranty or express shipping?

Decide on these ahead of time. If you are an existing business starting to sell online sometimes you best 'in store' seller is not ideal to be sold online.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH RESEARCH. This goes without saying. Don't just limit your research to Australia. Have a look at other websites overseas as well as the likes of eBay and others. Buy online products and services and keep track of how the seller processes the order. Don't be too disheartened if you see someone else selling the same thing for some crazy figure below what you are considering. I see this on eBay all the time. Price is not the only reason people buy. The look and feel of your website and the ease of use are very important factors.

STEPS TO PURCHASE IS CRUCIAL

I once completed an audit for a website for someone who was not selling as much as they wanted to online. My audit revealed 21 steps to buy one product!!. No kidding folks, twenty-one separate steps.

It depends on which source you are Googling but 2 to 3 steps is ideal if you can achieve it. The golden rule is the more you ask of the customer the higher the abandon rate.

HOW MANY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES DO YOU WANT TO SELL?

Obviously your project has to pay for itself.

Keep in mind that in most cases 1 product can actually be multiple products to manage and set up online.

For example if you are selling T- Shirts consider the following: Product: Brand: Style: Sizes: Colours:

T-Shirt XYZ Collar Neck Mens S, M, L, XL, XXL Red, Black, Blue, White

To state the obvious this means 1 product is actually up to 20 products. Each one should ideally have an image and description. The better the description the better your products will be for SEO. If you have variable weight calculations for automatic freight and postage you will also need to add the weight and dimensions of each.

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In our studio in Traralgon we usually allow 11-13 minutes set up per item. Lesson of the day, this takes time to do properly.

abandoned it. Using a process of elimination and experimenting with your website layout you can fine tune the shopper experience and decrease the abandon rate over time.

BUSINESS NAME, DOMAIN NAME, HOSTING

Once the above items have been ticked off, you'll need to lay the foundation of your planned e-commerce website. If your planned business name is available to you without problem, you'll need to register the domain for your website.

Additionally, you'll need to find hosting for the website, and decide on who will be designing your website in terms of look and feel.

There are a number of excellent web designers and developers right here in Gippsland. Prices, service and ability to get a return on investment from the end result, vary widely. Shop around and ask questions.

READY BUILT ALTERNATIVES? WIX, SHOPIFY, ETC

These are good also. The trick is to make sure they grow with your business. Most, if not all of these options are subscription based. They cost very little to start with and settle down to a monthly or yearly payment. CAUTION: Make sure you check who actually owns your website.

The best way to find this out is to ask what happens if you don't pay the monthly bill. A lot of these online shop providers will turn your site off and it's lost forever, gone, farewell, amen.

However they are very quick way to get up and running and come with oodles of templates to chose from.

LEGAL INFORMATION

Part of any e-commerce site design will entail providing legal pages (terms and conditions, privacy policy, et al), which will include your store policies. Do you ship overseas, or just locally? Do you accept returns? Decide on the relevant points to include in your store policies and ensure those are included. An FAQ page may also be a good idea.

A good web developer will be able to point you in the right direction here. You can also find out a lot by looking at existing websites. Again make sure you keep your Accountant and Lawyer in the loop here. Pay close attention to those template/subscription/ready made online shops fitting in with Australian Laws.

EXTENSIBILITY

Build your eCommerce website the right way the first time and you can add all sorts of extras to it. We now only build WooCommerce websites which is an online shop extension for WordPress websites. WooCommerce allows us to do the following: a. Set up your online shop as a Point of Sale in house with cash register. b. Extend your shop to Facebook. c. Connect your online shop to eBay. How cool's that?

While the site is being designed, work out a marketing plan. Make sure your product descriptions are SEO-friendly, and that the site as a whole is underpinned by a strong SEO framework. PPC advertising (such as Google AdWords) may also be worth considering if you are a new business startup looking to gain a foothold in the marketplace.

HOW TO GET PAID

Payment gateways such as PayPal or Stripe are necessary for your customers to purchase your products – once again, research what works best for your business model. Both of these are very easy to set up. We usually start our clients on one or both of these and then install more payment gateways as they get the hang of selling online.

The big 4 banks all have dedicated payment gateways. There are many different options here but the one thing to point out is that an over the front counter merchant account is NOT the same as an online merchant account.

Just because you can process EFTPOS in your bricks and mortar shop does not mean you automatically have an online payment system in place.

CUSTOM BUILT OPTION

This is what we do as well as a number of other agencies throughout Gippsland. It ensures you get EVERYTHING you need to start AND grow your business.

If you ever go to sell your business, Google Analytics provides a deeper insight into your business for prospective purchasers. Keep that in mind!

It's been said that “if you build it, they will come”, but in 2016, that's rarely the case in the online shopping market. Having an e-commerce website with products to sell is more than just developing a site and hoping for the best – it will require research, some technical know-how and more than a passing knowledge of legal requirements. If you have the fundamentals outlined in place, however, then your site should be easy to find and problem- free to navigate. The customers you hope for may not necessarily beat a path to your door, but they will come – and if you do your job right, they'll keep coming back.

Jim Radford

GOOGLE ANALYTICS

Once your site is live and underway, you'll need to track customer behaviour beyond simply making purchases. Google Analytics is excellent for seeing how long customers stay on your website, and which pages they view.

Google Analytics can be especially tailored for e- commerce, and any designer worth their salt will be able to set it up to track customer behaviour once the 'go live' switch is turned on.

WHAT ENGINE TO USE FOR CUSTOM BUILD?

Next is deciding on the 'engine' of the website – the content management system that will facilitate both your listing of the products you intend to sell, and the customer to buy same.

Make sure that it is mobile responsive, as over 50% of purchases made online are done via a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.

If your site is being designed by somebody else, they can help you decide which CMS will be best suited to your needs, but some independent online research is also recommended.

We LOVE Google Analytics and have installed it on multitudes of websites. If you have an existing website, as a Google Agency, we will install it for you for FREE.

Image Direct Gippsland www.imagedirect.com.au About the author: Jim's Traralgon based company is Google AdWords Certified and Google Analytics Certified and has been building websites and managing Social Media in Gippsland for the past 7 years.

As mentioned in previous articles, Google Analytics is GOLD. Please make sure you have it installed on any website you have. Its FREE and gives you a tonne of information. One handy thing it can measure is how many shoppers on your site started a shopping cart but then

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RIDING FOR RIO

By Chris West

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Dan McConnell Australia’s leading Cross Country Mountain Bike rider Dan McConnell is aiming to draw on the lessons learnt from his Olympic experiences from Beijing and London to achieve a podium finish in Rio De Janiero in August.

Dan McConnell has come a long way from riding around the hills of his hometown Bruthen as a young boy. At the age of 30, he is preparing to compete in the Cross Country Mountain Bike event at his third Olympiad and is firmly established as one of the sport’s elite riders on the world stage.

As the challenge of Rio draws closer, McConnell is confident that his experiences from Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012, as well as many years of riding on the World Cup circuit, will stand him in good stead. He finished in 39th position on his Olympic debut in Beijing and improved to 21st place in London.

“Beijing and London were pretty memorable experiences for me,” McConnell says.

“It really wasn’t what I wanted or what I was capable of. I was expecting to win that race for sure. After that, my focus shifted straight away to Rio.” At a preview event held in October last year, Dan was able to inspect the venue that will be used for the Mountain Bike races at the Rio Olympics.

“I didn’t compete at the preview event, but I was able to get out on the course and collect all the data and footage that I will need in my preparation,” he explains.

“It’s a fair course with a bit of everything in there, with lots of climbing and some quite technical features as well. I have a pretty good idea about what I have to do to be ready for what I will face on that course at the Olympics.”

Although Dan believes the temperature in Rio in August may make heat an important factor in his event, he is not really altering his planning to any great extent.

“Both times I wasn’t realistically aiming for a medal. I wasn’t at that level at the time.

The big thing was just trying to qualify, so the achievement was just getting there. London was a big step up and provided further valuable experience. Hopefully in Rio I can get a result and my target is definitely to bring home a medal.”

“Everything in my preparation is going well. I know that the training I do is good enough to get me on the podium, so I’ve just got to stick with what I know and hopefully it will pay off.”

Dan’s thoughts turned to Rio immediately following the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow where he collected a bronze medal, a fine achievement but one that did not match his own high expectations.

“Last year my performances were disappointing because I think I put too much emphasis on training at altitude for the World Championships in Andorra and nothing really happened for me.

With that now behind me, I’m looking forward to getting back and having a good World Cup season starting in April and building momentum into the Olympics,” he states.

“A bronze medal is a good result, but I was still disappointed,” he admits.

Dan concedes that 2015 was not his best year, but is confident of returning to his true form in the all-important months ahead.

Alongside Dan in Rio will be his fiancée Bec Henderson, 24, who is also an elite Mountain Bike (MTB) rider in the women’s ranks. The pair met nearly seven years ago through competing on the MTB circuit and Dan has become Bec’s coach as well as partner. This will be Bec’s second Olympics following her appearance in London four years ago where she finished in 25th position.

“Bec has risen up the ranks really quickly and we also have higher expectations for her as well at this Olympics,” Dan states.

“Last year on the World Cup circuit she had some Top 10 finishes for the first time. This year, she is hoping she can get the occasional Top 5 finish. When you start reaching Top 5 in World Cup events, you are placing yourself in the mix when it comes to your Olympic prospects. It’s not like she’s gunning for a podium finish in Rio, but if you’re achieving Top 5 to Top 10 in World Cups then you’re always a chance on the day.

So that’s driving her pretty hard at the moment,” he adds.

Dan and Bec will arrive in Rio via Canada, where there is a World Cup circuit event two weeks prior to the Olympics. The couple presently live in Canberra, but spend approximately half the year away competing overseas, mostly in Europe and to a lesser extent the United States.

The MTB season commences in April and continues through to September. As at the end of 2015, Dan was rated the 8th best Cross Country MTB rider in the world on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) rankings, whilst Bec’s world ranking stood at 20.

Very occasionally, Dan crosses over from Mountain Bike riding to contest road cycling events, like he did when he competed in the Tour Down Under in January last year.

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“Mountain Bike riding and road cycling are very different disciplines. Whenever I do it, the purpose is that it gives me the chance to gain a really good base to my training during the offseason, so it helps lay a solid foundation for the year ahead in MTB,” he explains.

For Dan, the road to the top began in the small East Gippsland township of Bruthen, where his parents Ian and Jenny own and operate a berry farm that is renowned for the excellent quality of its produce.

“I was born in the Yarra Valley in Melbourne, but our family moved to Bruthen when I was three,” he says.

“I have good memories of my childhood.

Growing up in Bruthen, there was a lot of freedom to explore. I would ride to school and competed in my first Mountain Bike race in a local event when I was about five.”

Dan is the middle of three children, having an elder sister Melanie and younger sibling Lisa.

In his early years, he concentrated his sporting

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interest on playing junior football for Bairnsdale until becoming serious about Mountain Bike riding at the age of fifteen. It did not take long for his talent to become apparent to all.

“I made my first Australian team for the World Championships in Europe at sixteen and have been going overseas every year since,” he remarks.

Dan’s early mentor was Geelong-based coach, Donna Rae Szalinski, who is a former Tour De France rider. Donna has played an important role in setting Dan on the path to a successful career in his sport, as has the support and guidance of his parents.

“I coach myself now, but still keep in contact with Donna,” he says.

If genetics count for anything, it is not surprising that Dan has shown elite sporting talent. Both his parents were outstanding track athletes, excelling as middle distance runners in their

prime. His mother Jenny (Orr) reached the highest level, contesting the 800 metres and 1,500 metres at the Munich Olympics at just 19 years of age in 1972.

Jenny was eliminated from the 800 metres event following the first round of heats, but qualified for the Final of the 1,500 metres after running a personal best of 4.08.06 when running fourth in her Round 1 heat and 4.08.86 when placed sixth in her Semi Final. That time was good enough to earn her a place amongst the field of ten women who contested the Final.

Dan McConnell

Although unfortunately unable to replicate her earlier times and level of performance in the Final, the pig-tailed teenager ran bravely to finish 8th behind Russian star Lyudmila Bragina, who surged to victory in a world record time of 4.01.38. Bragina lowered the Women’s 1,500 metre world record no fewer than three times during the course of the Olympic competition in Munich.

To put Jenny’s performance into perspective, some 43 years later not one of the women competing in the 1,500 metres at the 2015 Australian National Championships were able to match her best time of 4.08.06 from Munich despite all the recent advances in sports medicine, human development, exercise, training and facilities.

Dan believes that his mother is proud of her Olympic achievement, but has not discussed her experience in great detail with him, nor her memories of the tragic events of the terrorist attack on members of the Israeli team that marred the Games in Munich.

“In doing so, I became the first Australian rider since Cadel Evans to win a World Cup event,” he says.

“That was a pretty big deal for me and remains the highlight of my career so far.”

Dan will celebrate his 31st birthday during the first week of the Rio Olympics, but believes his age is no hindrance in his sport and that he still has quite a way to travel yet as a Mountain Bike rider on the international circuit.

“I’d like to think I’ve got another Olympics in me after this one. I really only entered the professional ranks of my sport three years ago and can still see improvement in me.”

Although he and Bec recently got engaged, Dan says that the focus of their life together as a couple is for the time being still centred on their successful riding careers.

“We’re just enjoying what we’re doing together at the moment,” he states.

Dan admits that he does not get the chance to return home to Bruthen as much as he would like.

“I only see mum and dad maybe a few times each year which is not enough. I love going home. It’s always good to get back and ride some of the trails and country roads that I did growing up. It’s where my roots are and is what got me into the sport.”

Hopefully, when Dan visits his parents at McConnell’s Berry Farm after the Olympics, either he or Bec may have a medal to show off to the locals of Bruthen.

Photographs supplied by Trek Bicycle Photos by Matthew DeLorme Photography Photographs supplied by Mountain Bike Australia Photos by Jaime Black Photography & Russell Baker

“Mum hasn’t spoken to me in depth about it all, but I know she looks back on competing there as the pinnacle of her sporting career.

The terrorism incident would have touched everyone who was there. The Olympics is like its own little community, so I think it would have impacted upon her for sure.”

For much of his MTB career, Dan was forced to seek sponsorship assistance to help him meet the considerable costs of competing internationally. Life on the circuit for he and Bec changed enormously when both were recruited to Trek Factory Racing team at the beginning of 2013.

“A lot of things changed from that moment really,” Dan comments.

“Before that, Bec and I were travelling to the races ourselves and trying to get a bit of funding here and there. Being part of a professional team helps in many ways, not just the financial side, you get looked after with everything and can just put all your focus into riding.”

Soon after joining the Trek Factory Racing team, Dan won the first World Cup event of the 2013 season at Albstadt in Germany.

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Stage 3 Traralgon to Inverloch Saturday, 6 February 2016 Stage 3 placements 1st 2nd 3rd

American John Murphy Italian Niccolo Bonifazio Australian Steele von Hoff

United Healthcare Trek-Segafredo One Pro Cycling

A large crowd in the vicinity of around 5,000 people gathered initially from the Inverloch-Leongatha Roundabout, and in the final stage, along Toorak Road/Venus Street into Ramsay Boulevard.

The Jayco Herald Sun Tour now in it's 63rd year was a great success and Tour Director John Trevorrow stated that this event was one of the best ever. Gippsland born John Trevorrow is a three-time winner of the Herald Sun Tour race.

The event finished at Arthurs Seat, Mornington Peninsula with twice crowned Tour De France champion Chris Froome winning the final stage and the event in an impressive final day.

Photographs: Wildwood Photography

Jayco

Herald Sun Tour

Ben Hill (AUS) Attaque Team Gusto

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Chris Hamilton (AUS) Australian National team KordaMentha Real Estate

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Winner John Murphy (USA) United Heathcare with Mayor, Cr Jordan Crugnale

LIFE CYCLE (over 55s) Leader of the Jayco Herald Sun Tour at Stage 3: Peter Kennaugh (GBr) - Team Sky with on course commentator, David McKenzie

Prior to the Herald Sun Tour race, an event – Life Cycle (over 55s) – sponsored by Cycling Victoria cycled to Eagle's Nest and back a few times and was well supported with over 50 riders taking part.

Tour Director John Trevorrow with Gippsland Lifestyle Doug Pell

Leanne Healey, Al Campbell, Gaye Thompson & Leigh Thompson Team United Healthcare having a well-earned rest after the race

Photography Doug Pell

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(Article Courtesy of Wonthaggi Medical Group, 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi)

WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP

Dogs

By John Turner B Soc. Welf., Master Intl & Community Development, MAAPM

Much more than a man’s best friend Growing up in London I cannot remember a time when we did not have a dog as a family pet. My grandfather kept greyhounds, my father bred English Bull-Terriers and later as an adult, I bred Staffordshire Bull Terriers and showed them with a modicum of success. Some years after moving to Australia with my family our pet was a miniature fox-terrier who was full of character and had such fantastic skills with a soccer ball that we nicknamed her ‘Maradonna’ after the well known Argentinian soccer player. Sadly her over enthusiasm for the round ball caused her to be knocked down by a motor vehicle one New Year’s Eve and we did without a pet for a year or two. That situation ended when we saw our first rough coated Jack Russell Terrier who was so adorable we just had to have her. We named her ‘Bess’ and she soon became a member of the family and it wasn’t too long before she had a litter of pups.

Our beloved pet ‘Dara a Jack Russell Terrier whose best friend was ‘Monty” a large Airedale Terrier whom she teased incessantly. She lived to 15 when she died, after being overwhelmed with grief for her mother ’Bess’ Sadly missed

One of the pups (‘Dara’) we kept and both dogs went on to live long lives and give great pleasure and comfort to ourselves, our children and grandchildren. Unfortunately both Bess and Dara died about two years ago from natural causes at the ages of 17 years and 15 years respectively.

Stories like this are repeated millions of times around the world, demonstrating the close affinity between humans and dogs. It is interesting to note that this relationship between mankind and dogs can be traced back 33,000 years. In evolutionary terms, DNA research suggests that dogs split from Grey Wolves about 32,000 years ago. It is clear that this symbiotic relationship has benefits to both humans and animals alike otherwise it would not have been sustained; true domestication of dogs probably occurred about 16,000 years ago in China.

Whenever domestication occurred, it is generally agreed that by 10,000 years ago dogs were firmly ensconced in human society. Interestingly, researchers have found that both species, dogs and humans, underwent similar evolutionary changes affecting their digestive systems and several brain processes; for example, changes in the genes that are responsible for processing the chemical serotonin.

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Still other research is showing that not only do dogs offer unparalleled companionship but they also boost human health.

BENEFITS OF THE HUMAN-DOG BOND Dogs have long been used by humans for hunting and keeping down vermin and for companionship but the benefits of dog ownership go far beyond this.

GREATER PHYSICAL ACTIVITY A number of studies around the world have found that dog owners are much more likely to do moderate physical activity during the week compared with non-dog owners which suggests a reason why other studies have also found that owning a dog has cardiovascular benefits. One study of adults who had had a heart attack found that those who owned a dog were much more likely to be alive a year later than those that didn’t own a dog. Other studies have shown dog owners to have lower blood pressure and lower heart rates whether at rest or when undergoing stress tests compared with people who do not own dogs.

LOWER ALLERGY RISK It is true that dogs may be a trigger for people with allergies but equally it would seem that growing up with dogs can reduce the likelihood of a child developing allergies. Research strongly suggests that exposure to dogs in infancy can positively affect a child’s immune development so that by their third birthday the child is much less likely to have atopic dermatitis or wheezing compared with children in families that do not have dogs.

MENTAL HEALTH AND STRESS A 2006 study by the University of Portsmouth in the UK showed that owning a dog reduced the likelihood of depression while a 2012 study found that having a dog as a pet helped to reduce work induced stress. The reasons for this are complex but it would seem that exercising the dogs gives a sense of well-being and meeting people on their strolls made the owners feel happier. What is particularly interesting is that dog-human contact involved in stroking, grooming, walking the dog is beneficial to both dogs and humans. Both owners and dogs have been shown to have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol after just 25 minutes of such physical contact.

SNIFFING OUT DISEASE Just how attuned to people dogs have become is demonstrated by the University of Portsmouth’s study that show that dogs may be able to understand the human perspective. This fact and the undeniable sensory skills of dogs have been put to use in a unique UK program for monitoring people with Diabetes. Dogs are able, with training, to discern with significant accuracy when a person’s sugar levels are too high or too low and can warn their owners before they collapse into a coma. This hypoglycemia monitoring by dogs is not clearly understood but it has led to fewer paramedic calls, fewer episodes of unconsciousness and improved independence of the persons taking part in the UK program.

(Article Courtesy of Wonthaggi Medical Group, 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi)

Some dogs have been trained to warn their owners, who suffer from epilepsy, that an epileptic fit may be imminent. How dogs do this remains a mystery but they can give several hours warning.

It has also been demonstrated that dogs are able to sniff out cancer; their sense of smell is so strong and discerning that they are able to detect cancer in a person within three hours of meeting them.

There are many good reasons and health benefits to owning a dog but foremost among them is the unconditional love and affection that a well treated, well looked after and well loved dog will return to you and the many moments of amusement and pleasure you and your family will gain from the relationship.

REFERENCES Allen, K., Shykoff, B. E., & Joseph L. Izzo, J. (2001) Pet ownership, but not ACE inhibitor therapy, blunts home blood pressure responses to mental stress.

Hypertension, 38, 815-820.

Barker, RT, Knisely JS et al (2012) “Preliminary investigation of employee’s dog presence on stress and organisational perceptions” in International Journal of Workplace Health Management 2012 Volume 5 issue 1 pp 15-30.

Bird W (2006) reported in Daily Mail “Walking the dog beats loneliness and depression, research reveals”, www.dailymail.co,uk/news/article-415305/Walkingdog-beats loneliness-depression Friedmann, E., Katcher, A. H., Lynch, J. J., & Thomas, S. A. (1980) Animal companions and one-year survival of patients after discharge from a coronary care unit. Public Health Reports, 95(4), 307-312.

Gern, JE, Reardon CL et al (2004) “Effects of dog ownership and genotype on immune development and atopy in infancy” in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Feb 2004, Vol 113 issue 2, pages 307-314.

Harper CM, Dong Y, Thornhill TS, et al. (2014) “Can therapy dogs improve pain and satisfaction after total joint arthroplasty? A randomized controlled trial” in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 2014;473(1):372-79.

Heady, B.; Grabka, M.; Kelley, J.; Reddy, P.; Tseng, Y.-P (2002) Pet ownership is good for your health and saves public expenditure too. Australian and German longitudinal evidence. Aust. Soc. Monit. 2002, 5, 93–99.

Kaminski, J (2013) “Dogs may understand human point of view” a report of University of Portsmouth Research in Science Daily www.sciencedaily.com. releases/2013/02/130211090840.htm Mott, M (2004) “Seizure-Alert Dogs save Humans with Early warnings” in National Geographic News Fenbruary 11, 2004.

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 - 1.00pm Sat

25 A'Beckett Street, Inverloch Consulting Suites, Wonthaggi Hospital

9.00am - 5.00pm Mon - Fri 9.00am - 8.00pm Mon - Fri

2/1524 Bass Highway, Grantville

9.00am - 4.30pm Mon - Fri early closing 1.00pm Wednesday

Tel: 5672 1333 For Appointments and After Hours www.wonthaggimedical.com.au

YOUR EVENTS GUIDE MARCH 2015 PHILLIP ISLAND CLASSIC FESTIVAL OF MOTOR SPORT Date: March 11 Time: 9.00am Location: Philip Island Contact: Ian Fletcher 0418 376 278 Email: ianfletcher@iprimus.com.au INVERLOCH JAZZ FESTIVAL Date: March 11 - March 14 Contact: Clive 0434 574 516 Email: info@inverlochjazzfestival.com CENTENARY OF SEASPRAY Date: March 12 - March 14 Location: Seaspray foreshore, beach and hall Contact: Pauline Hitchins 0437 296 925 Email: paulinehitchins@hotmail.com

HINNOMUNJIE PICNIC RACES

Head to the High Country for an action packed Labour Day Long Weekend!

Date Saturday March 12 Location Hinnomunjie, 20kms from Omeo, 8kms from Benambra Contact Tam 0427 849 839

SALE MUSIC FESTIVAL Date: March 13 Time: 11.00am Location: Sale Botanic Gardens Contact: Kerry McMillan 5149 8320

COALMINERS COUNTRY FAIR Date: March 13 Time: 9.00am Location: Wonthaggi State Coal Mine Contact: Sheila Ormerod 5672 2720 Email: cormerod@optusnet.com.au

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STONY CREEK RACING CUP DAY Date: March 13 Location: South Gippsland Hwy, Stony Creek Tel: 5664 0099 KORUMBURRA WORKING HORSE & TRACTOR RALLY Date: March 19 - March 20 Time: 10.00am Location: South Gippsland Hwy, Nyora Contact: 0484 944 598 ROTARY CLUB OF MAFFRA MARDI GRAS Date: March 19 Time: 3.00pm - 9.00pm Location: Main Street of Maffra Contact: Pauline Hitchins 0437 296 925 Email: mafframardigras@gmail.com OPERA BY THE LAKES Date: March 20 Time: 12.00pm - 4.15pm Location: Nyerimilang Heritage Park, Kalimna West Contact: Andrea Ford 0409 771 526 Email: akford@tpg.com.au RIDE FOR THE ANIMALS Is a charity bike ride from Sale to Bairnsdale, supporting Animal Aid with fundraising Date: March 20 Time: 8.30am - 3.30pm Contact: Megan Pritchard 03 8756 1335 Email: mpritchard@animalaid.org.au GLENMAGGIE BLUES & ROOTS FESTIVAL Date: March 20 Time: 12.00pm - 8.30pm Location: Glenmaggie Mechanics' Institute Contact: Brooke Barbour 0407 370 674 Email: brooke@eurowholesale.com.au TARRA FESTIVAL STREET PARADE Date: March 23 Time: 10.00am Location: Commercial Road & Buckley Street, Yarram Contact: John Jess Email: tarrafestival@gmail.com AUTHOR TALK: HONEY BROWN AT YARRAM LIBRARY Date: March 24 Time: 6.30pm Location: Yarram Library Contact: Wellington Library Service Bookings Essential - 5142 3146

TARWIN LOWER EASTER FESTIVAL Date: March 25 - March 28 Includes: Start of Tour de Tarwin Fishing Classic,10th Annual Tour de Tarwin Bike/Walk Tour 2nd Annual Tour de Tarwin Shield: Tarwin Sharks v MDU Family Bare foot bowls and BBQ Tour de Tarwin Easter Classic Fun Run WALHALLA EASTER ART SHOW Date: March 25 - March 28 Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Location: Mechanics Institute Hall Contact: Barbara Hood 0409 048 469 EASTER FUN FESTIVAL Date: March 26 Time: 10.00am Location: Churchill Island Contact: Phillip Island Nature Parks 5951 2800 Email: info@penguins.org.au OMEO HIGH REGION COUNTRY MARKET Date: March 26 Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Omeo Courthouse Gardens, Great Alpine Road, Omeo Contact: Coops 5159 1515 DINNER PLAIN GEEBUNG POLO MATCH Date: March 27 Time: 10.00am Location: Cobungra Station off Great Alpine Road 20kms from Dinner Plain towards Omeo Contact: 03 9585 8330 TAMBO VALLEY CUP Date: March 27 Time: 11.00am Location: Swifts Creek Contact: 5159 4362

AUTUMN events APRIL 2016

mus must t see must go do

MAY 2016 AVON VILLAGE FAIRE DAY & MARKET part of SHAKESPEARE ON THE RIVER FESTIVAL STRATFORD Date: May 1 Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm Location: Hobson Street, Stratford

TINAMBA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Date: April 3 Time: 11.00am - 4.00pm Location: Tinamba Main Street outside the Tinamba Hotel Contact: Kellie Willis 0429 329 989 Email: willwritecommunications@outlook.com

LINDENOW CUP DAY Date: May 8 Time: 11.00am - 5.00pm Location: Bairnsdale Racecourse OMEO HIGH REGION COUNTRY MARKET Date: May 14 Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Omeo Courthouse Gardens, Great Alpine Road, Omeo Contact: Coops 5159 1515 GIPPSLAND LAKES PADDLE CHALLENGE Date: May 14 Location; Main Beach, Lakes Entrance Contact: Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club

FARMWORLD

In it's 54th year, Farm World has grown to be Victoria's largest regional agricultural event with over 700 exhibitors The theme for 2016 is "Farm Productivity" And this year you can visit Gippsland The Lifestyle Magazine in the General Interest Pavillion, Site No. GIP76 Date April 7 - April 10 Location Lardner Park, 155 Burnt Store Road, Lardner

FISH CREEK TEA COSY FESTIVAL This festival showcases the town's character and reinvents a cultural icon of country kitchens along the way.

Date: May 14 - May 22 Contact: Susan Poletti 0429 936 325

OMEO HIGH REGION COUNTRY MARKET Date: April 9 Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Omeo Courthouse Gardens, Great Alpine Road, Omeo Contact: Coops 5159 1515 30TH ANNUAL EAST GIPPSLAND FIELD DAYS Date: April 29 - April 30 Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm Location: Bairnsdale Aerodrome Bairnsdale Forge Creek Road Contact: www.egfielddays.com

If you require your event to be promoted please email Gippsland the Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

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west gippsland

AUTUMN in

Another Autumn! Certainly the trees are telling me that change is acoming. That brown tinge to everything that occurred (even at Jindivick) has gone and green is the dominant colour again.

Well, what to do over the next three months?…

I have tried to find something for each weekend.

Some weekends are full to the brim and others are a bit quiet. Look at the websites through the article and see if there is something in your area. I certainly can’t list everything so I have to choose what seems the most fun..,,or at least is different from the weeks before.

The first weekend in March includes the Warragul Show (Friday night and Saturday) at Logan Park in.…Warragul! On the Sunday is Scots on the Swamp (isn’t that a delightful title), presented by the Rotary Club of Koo Wee Rup….. Dancers, Shetland ponies, pipe bands etc etc at South Gippsland Hwy Koo Wee Rup… maybe lots of hairy legged Scotsmen standing knee deep in mud… who can tell! www.harewoodvic.wordpress.com The weekend of the 12th and 13th includes Rokeby Market and Briagolong Open Studios where different artists put their studios on show (facebook it). A more noisier option would be at Lardner Park with the Drouin Lions Motorfest n action www.lardnerpark.com.au.

"Back in Time" at the Noojee Heritage Centre with lots of pre 1975 cars www.noojeehistoric.org.au on the 13th March from 11 to 4 And if you are at Sale... then the Sale Music Festival is the go (again facebook). Speaking of music, at Cardinia Cultural Centre on the 13th an Emerald filmmaker is showing her latest work and this looks well worth a visit. (this is also the Labour Day weekend so enjoy the break). www.cardinia.vic.gov.au Chili Festival on at Wild Dog Winery over the weekend of the 19th and 20th of March. Also on that weekend of the 19th and 20th… probably starts on Friday night with the Beaconsfield Football Club hosting the first Beer, Wine Cheese and Craft Twilight Festival (facebook Beaconsfield senior Football club) and this is followed on Saturday by the Pakenham Show. www.pakenhamshow.org.au For more food, the Great Easter Bakeoff occurs at the Balla Balla Community Centre, 65 BerwickCranbourne Rd (surely hot cross buns must feature somewhere there… or maybe Coles have them all since they have been on show since New Year!).

On the 20th is West Gippsland Open Studios with a variety of painters and sculptors, (of which I am one) showing their studios and works. Next time this occurs it will be a two day event www.openstudioswestgippsland.com.au

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Also Opera by the Lakes sings up a storm at Nungurner www.gippslandopera.org.au The next weekend( 26th-27th) is Easter and on the 26th Old Gippstown has an Easter Extravaganza from 10 to 2 with an Easter egg hunt, an Easter bonnet competition etc www.gippslandheritagepark.com.au There is also something similar at Coal Creek in Korumburra www.coalcreekvillage.com.au If you have got away over the weekend then you might be in a position to see the Easter High Country Polo at Dinner Plain www.geebungpolo. com.au or the Walhalla Easter Art Show and of course the Lang Lang Rodeo on the Easter Monday www.langlangshow.org April starts with the St John’s Quilters Exhibition on Friday from 10am to 4pm at 27 Childers St Cranbourne followed closely on Saturday by Jindivick Country Market. (Do call in!)

On the Sunday is both the Drouin Antiques and Collectables Fair and the start of the South Gippsland Sustainability Festival at Coal Creek, Korumburra from 9am to 2pm (plastic features strongly) www.sustainabilityfestival.com.au

with

LAURIE COLLINS April ends and May starts and in May starts Creative Gippsland www.creativegippsland.com.au which has a wealth of activities across all the different shires (including a quilt show by Meredith Leamon at the Red Tree Gallery). But for something more down to earth the Longwarry Market is on Sunday.

Next weekend May 7th and 8th includes the Mirboo North Arty Gras and art show www.mirboonorth.vic.au/artygras as well as Koo Wee Rup market on the Sunday.

Over the weekend and a bit further is Paris The Rock Musical at the West Gippsland Arts Centre written by Jon English www.wgac.com.au On the weekend of the 14th Gippsland Art Gallery (Sale) starts a new exhibition called Timelapse which unlocks the secret language of landscape images. This is accompanied by two other exhibitions, The Edge of Reason and The Craft Revolution. A good excuse to visit Sale and enjoy the delights of Central Gippsland.

The weekend of the 21st (Saturday) sees the continued competition for patrons of the Drouin Craft and Produce Market and the Warragul Farmers Market. Make a choice or visit both!

Follow up your market treasures by a visit to the West Gippsland Arts Centre to hear Ian Moss “Six string classic Tour”… Cold Chisel unplugged! www.wgac.com.au He is also touring around so see if he is closer to you in another venue.

The next week sees the start of Farmworld going from Thursday 7th through to the Sunday 10th www.lardnerparkevents (no doubt bigger and better again) and also for kids on the Saturday 9th is the Casey Kids Carnival from 1 to 7pm at Akoonah Park Berwick www.casey.vic.gov.au

The next weekend sees the Yakkerboo Art Show (Pakenham) starting on the 27th. Yarragon Market is on the Saturday and Noojee Market on the Sunday.

For something more adult, the Rare Plant Fair is on at Jindivick on Saturday 9th and on the Sunday maybe come and see the wonderful paintings of Laurel Foenander at the Red Tree Gallery Jindivick. In the afternoon there is a bookreading

by Pauline (Bones) McKinnon from her book Treasures from the Tide at the same gallery (shameless self promotion)!

eg the West Gippsland Bonsai Group www.westgippslandbonsaigroup@weebly.com lots of usual markets and tons of constant events and enjoyments such as Gumbuya Park, the various cafés and restaurants (Parnassus is back in business and well worth a visit) and each of the various venues had lots I didn’t mention….

Next weekend on the Sunday 17th are two markets, Pakenham and Emerald which might make a change from the usual markets I mention and also the Swap Meet and Show and Shine Show at Lardner Park www.lardnerpark.com.au including classic Motorcycles.

The 23rd and 24th lead up to Anzac Day on the 25th. On the 23rd is Shakespeare on the River Festival at Stratford www.stratfordshakespeare. com.au and for a more active Saturday night a bush dance at the Tetoora Rd Community Centre (ring Barb 0417 506 811) (no experience necessary!) Sunday has Noojee Station Market as well as Bunyip Market so choice abounds for a nice day out.

Have I missed anything?…. Yep lots…

Go on!.. do a bit of hunting yourself… it certainly is fascinating the range of activities within a short drive…. and of course we are blessed with such a beautiful environment!

Happy Autumn!

Good on ya.

Laurie Sculpture Garden & Red Tree Gallery

www.lauriecollins.com.au

Craig Fison leading flash dancers

GeekFFest Geek est2 2 HIGHLIGHTS OF

JANUARY 16 AT COAL CREEK KORUMBURRA

L-R Philmah Bocks – Art Simone – Star Wars Show

Shaun Freeman Animator

L-R Philmah Bocks – Art Simone - Make-up Workshop

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MEL & KEL THE CONTINUING STORY

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by Geoff Watt

One thing that amazes me in this job is the people you meet. I realised years ago that all towns in Gippsland have an amazing story to tell if you take the time to stop and do some scratching beneath the surface. Not suprisingly, its the same with people. People we pass in the street in our towns, people we may smile at and say G'day. People who are now ordinary everyday people, but whose earlier life was anything but ordinary. You scratch the surface and a deep and wonderful history emerges and you think, "Wow, and you're living here in Gippsland!" Two such people are Carmel and Kelvin Monaghan (aka Mel & Kel) who have owned a holiday house at Cape Paterson since 1997 before 'retiring' from Melbourne some 12 months ago to live here permanently. Their life has become somewhat busier than anticipated though since moving down, although in a very nice way making many new friendships.

But what makes their story amazing was that they were both seriously involved in the music and entertainment business in what I consider to be its artistic and exploratory peak. Yes they were participants in the revolution of rock music and they have met, played and had friendships with many of the biggest names from the 1960's and 1970's. Mel and Kel themselves have been best friends for 50 years and a couple for 25 years.

It all starts back in 1962. Carmel Chayne (Mel) was a beautiful young woman who had the voice to match. She always loved singing and around the age of 15 was living in East Melbourne.

"There were four of us girls who formed a folk group called 'The Sol Four'. That was myself, two other girls and Olivia Newton-John. Olivia was a friend living nearby in Jolimont. We used to go and play records at a guy's house who had a really cool loft, listening to all the latest releases - Olivia was a bit younger living across

the street and would sit in a window looking out as we walked by and we would wave to her. One day I called out and asked, "Do you want to join us?" but Olivia thought her mum probably wouldn't let her. So we knocked on the door and asked her mum.� “We then became friends and used to go out to jazz dances together, eventually forming our own group. We mucked around at coffee lounges and places like that, just getting up to sing without any backing. That was my first group. It broke up and I went into another folk singing group but shortly after that I went solo and that's when I met Kel." Kel explains, "I met Carmel the very first time she sang with a band. I was in a band called The Trio Plus One playing at the Thumping Tum (a famous disco in the 1960's in Little Latrobe St. Melbourne - Izzy Dye was the singer, the 'One' in the name). Carmel's girlfriends came up to the stage and asked if this girl could sing a song and we were thinking 'for crying out loud'.

But they kept pestering us - we thought who is this girl that wants to sing? She was quite shy back then and a cute little blond so I said yeah, you can come up and sing" (laughs). So Carmel got up on stage and sang 'These Boots Are Made For Walking' and knocked them out.

That was about 1966 although they weren't in the same band during this period of time.

Carmel elaborates, "Later I was at Sorrento for Christmas holidays and I would get up and sing with The Blackout with Geoff Cox ('Coxy' from television fame) while they rehearsed at a big dance place called Tomcats. The Manager came in and asked if I was the new member of the band and when I said no, he then asked if I wanted to sing that night." After initially saying no, Coxy and the Band talked her into it. "So I ended up doing a few songs that night and it

went over really well." The Manager of Tomcats said to come and see him after the holidays and he would manage her - his company ran five big dances in Melbourne so Carmel's career was off and running.

Moving the story forward, Kel would sometimes back Carmel at dances. By the end of 1968 he was in a band called The Bobby James Syndicate while Carmel was a regular every Saturday morning on Uptight - a four hour Saturday Morning Music show on television hosted by Ross D. Wylie. It wasn't Carmel's first foray into television - she had some work on another music show called The Go Show and she had actually performed in a trio on In Melbourne Tonight hosted by Graham Kennedy!

(Indeed Kel's former band, The Trio Plus One, had also performed several times on television on a music show called 'Kommotion'.)

Kel had been fortunate enough to miss out on the Vietnam draft but his Manager around this time had asked if he would like to tour Vietnam for a month. The band had to put a show together and "we were told that we needed a name, someone that people would recognise.

That's when we asked Carmel and she came on board - we called it 'The Carmel Chayne Show'. Our one month turned into nearly two years!"

It was a life changing moment for all of them, opening up an incredible vista of new experiences and opportunities and proving to be an incredible bonding experience for those in the band. They were performing for troops in Vietnam from Anzac Day 1969 to the beginning of December 1970 at places like Cam Rahn Bay, An Khe and Phan Rang. "We nearly got killed several times being near the front line and once we even got shot at while driving in a car.

"We were living on bases with the troops right

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in the middle of the fighting. At times it was very stressful but it bonded us - the guys in the band were like my brothers - we were like a family. So the nucleus of the band stayed together to play for many years after Vietnam." Kel adds, "Most other Australian bands were there for a week at a time; they would come in, play their show on the base and then go, whereas we were on our own - we had a villa in downtown Saigon living with the locals, we used to book our own shows and hitchhike on planes; we saw every inch of Vietnam. The Americans would ask us to do extra shows and would pick us up in a chopper, fly us out into the middle of nowhere and set us up on the back of a truck." They also toured and saw many other parts of South East Asia when they had to renew their visas - leaving Vietnam temporarily while the paperwork was approved.

They eventually came back to Australia for Christmas 1970 but they had changed - and in true rock and roll style, their agent had shot through with all the money they had earned over there! The money was gone so Carmel and the keyboard player shifted in with Kel's parents. Pretty soon they started getting itchy feet, missing the touring and playing - South East Asia was calling them back. Music had changed and the band had developed their sound and was now playing covers of quite progressive acts including King Crimson, Deep Purple, Cream, Electric Flag, Grand Funk Railroad, Chicago, and Gentle Giant but they found that in Australia other bands were still playing the same stuff they had been before they had left. So they made the joint decision for Carmel to go back with tapes and get them some gigs.

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Carmel got a one-way ticket to Singapore by selling some movie cameras and a revox tape recorder. They had played a club there that they loved during one of their downtimes in Vietnam - it was called The Barbarella, in the Ming Court Hotel in Singapore; set up like the spaceship in the Jane Fonda movie of the same name, "with the audience sitting in glass bubbles all around you". Carmel talked the Club into giving the band an audition, as they wouldn't commit until seeing the band live. Carmel got airline tickets (on a fly now, pay later deal!) and when the guys got there she duly explained that "the audition was on Wednesday night and if management likes us, we will get a three month contract".

What if we don't pass the audition was the guys' obvious question? Carmel says, "Geoff I was so confident that we would blow them away." They had to didn't they? Talk about being overseas without any fallback option to even get back home. But "we blew them away with all this great music they had never heard before."

They did six months in each of the Phillipines, Bangkok and Singapore on rotation for the next few years and Kel started writing and arranging his own progressive rock music for the band.

"We were into that kind of music as a group the keyboard player had a Mellotron and Moog, we had saxes too so we had a whole variety of sounds to go with Kel's great guitar work and the solid rhythm section." The band was called Crimson at this stage.

Around this time the story takes another twist.

When they were working at the Hilton Hotel in Kuala Lumpar in 1973, the Bee Gees were touring and Maurice Gibb happened to go to the hotel's basement disco, called the Tin

Mine, where Crimson were playing. Carmel had actually known the Bee Gees from the early days when they both played at the Tenth Avenue Club in Melbourne around 1965. In between covers they were playing Kel's original compositions - Maurice was blown away and asked what they were doing with their originals.

The band's plans at that stage were just to keep playing these clubs and try their luck in a similar fashion in Japan. Maurice Gibb asked, "Do you want to go to England?" Three weeks later he sent them around contracts and off they went to England. They were picked up at Heathrow by him in a Limousine, given top accommodation (in Abbey Road, St. John's Wood) and a month's studio time at the biggest studio in London, Morgan Studios.

"First time we walked into the studios, there is Rick Wakeman mixing Journey To The Centre Of The Earth".

To cut a long story short, they met Rick Wakeman, Manfred Mann, Max Merritt and a host of other stars. By this time the band's name had changed to Soliloquay and they "did two gigs at The Marquee and also played at The Speakeasy (where Hendrix, Cream and The Yardbirds all started). It was THE club that all the big musicians went to late at night. Kel: "Because Maurice had 'pull' everyone gave us a go and we ended up getting great write ups and reviews. The Speakeasy Club was a show you did at 1 o'clock at night and the night we were on, the band on before us was Thin Lizzy." (Nice of Phil Lynott, Gary Moore and co. to open for Soliloquay!) The first show we did we got a standing ovation and did two encores and they invited us back. The audience was all the musos from the top bands and if they

hundred per cent original material - nothing else. It was all the stuff that I had written and we got to record it. I have a lot of live tapes of what we did. I didn't feel the need to try and revisit something I had already achieved and there was nowhere in Australia where I could get my music across. I did some really good stuff with another band but it was hard getting gigs with the stuff we were doing. Anyway I was really happy that I got to do what I did and I had met all the top bands of the time and I had the accolades from them about my music. One of my favorite players was Jose Feliciano and I've even sat on a bed in a room all day playing Beatles' songs with him!"

didn't like you they were going to let you know."

Carmel adds, "Kel's music was just fantastic and everyone in the band loved doing it - I think that's what did it."

They recorded an EP for Moby Productions (Maurice Gibb's production company) and then got signed to Polydor records. But there was bad luck in the timing of this opportunity, which saw their planned course change again.

Kel explains, "Just as we signed, the oil crisis of 1974 came and London shut down to three days a week, where T.V. would close down at 10 p.m. each night and there was no petrol.

So Polydor cut all the new acts because there was a shortage of vinyl to press albums. Then the musicians union stepped in and said they were not going to renew our working permits because there was not enough work for local musicians as many clubs were shut down.

Maurice recommended we go to Europe for six months until the crisis blew over, and Polydor agreed, saying they would do the album then."

What eventually happened was that The Bee Gees were coming to Australia to tour and Maurice Gibb offered Soliloquay the role of support act on their tour. After that tour though, the band decided to stay in Australia - they had been away from Australia now for so many years. So their album was recorded but never released. Kel still has the masters of it, which includes a 22 minute progressive piece he wrote entitled 'Awakening'.

It was now 1975 and they played the San Remo Ballroom in Brunswick with AC-DC and played with Split Enz a lot, but Soliloquay was doing very progressive music which required a lot of equipment that had to be transported on a huge truck - there just wasn't the opportunities in Australia to really make it work so they started longing for Asia again. Kel: "In Asia we were living the high life with great money, great accommodation and playing three sets a night

starting at 10 p.m. and finishing about 3 a.m. and sitting by the pool during the days. London had been great but it was a hard slog, we didn't have any money and it was freezing cold." So they ended up going back to Asia.

Carmel shares an interesting fact: "The last gig Soliloquay ever did in Australia was at the Whalebone Hotel here in Wonthaggi. And we never knew how or why we got that job because we were just playing Melbourne at the time. Then two years ago we ran into a guitarist, which Kel is now playing with, and he said "I loved you guys - I actually booked Soliloquay for a gig at the Whalebone Hotel in Wonthaggi back at the beginning of 1976. And we were all so cheesed with you guys - we were just getting into you and then you broke up and left."

The band, minus Kel, went back to Bangkok.

Kel decided to stay in Australia to settle down and despite being tempted to go back, he eventually used the money from the sale of his guitar, saxes, flute and amps to pay a deposit for a house for him and his fiancĂŠ. So he never linked up with the band. Carmel had gone over with the original keyboard and bass player, found a replacement guitarist and drummer and played the traps for about 18 months as Crimson (the name was still well regarded in Asia) but eventually love took her band members back to Australia.

In 1991, after both their marriages had ended, Carmel moved back to Melbourne only about "ten minutes down the road" from where Kel lived. They were still best mates but eventually their relationship changed and Kel got up the courage to ask her out on a proper date. They have now been married twelve years. They performed as a duo around Melbourne two or three nights a week as 'Cover To Cover', right up until they moved down here a year ago.

When they came down to Cape Paterson they were talked into doing one show and loved it. So they now appear at the Cape Tavern in Cape Paterson as 'Mel & Kel The Cape Cruisers' up to six times a year. Between that, Kel's work with Joe Galea (a blues/rock band playing around Melbourne), Carmel's work as a wedding celebrant and the social scene they have immersed themselves in at Cape Paterson, Mel and Kel are content.

Kel kept very good diaries all through the Vietnam era. He also recorded a lot of music and live shows on tape. There is a book here, but pulling it all together is a bit overwhelming for Mel and Kel at present. Let's hope pen is put to paper in the next few years (when the Cape Paterson social life grants them the time!) because it would be a great legacy to be documented and shared. It's certainly an incredible journey that's got it all - music, celebrity, love and danger - oh and the boy gets the girl in the end!

So next time you casually pass someone in the street and say G'day, you may be connecting with someone who has one hell of a story to tell!

Photos supplied by Mel & Kel

Carmel continued working with a local Malay band until she came back home to Australia a few years later in 1979. Her and Kel had never lost contact but Kel was married living in Hurstbridge and Carmel married an Australian movie director she had met in Penang, and was living in Sydney.

I stop to reflect on Kel's music and ask if he continued playing and recording his innovative music. "We were fortunate enough that when we were in London with Soliloquay, we did one

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Missy Moo

Lucy

Charlie

Ari

Benson

Tess

Lucky

Millie

Zac

Max - Thanks for the memories

Sarah

Ollie

Rory & Billie

Tiger, Titch & Honey

Peppi

CORNER

GIPPSLAND'S FINEST Please email Gippsland The Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au if you would like to place a photo of your dog in Canine Corner

Steve White, Cartoonist

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CHANGE

is an inside job “Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world.

Today I am wise, so I am changing myself”- RUMI “Will the coaching process work for me?”

This is a question I am often asked and my answer is always the same……

That is entirely up to you and depends on whether you consciously make the choice for it to work and trust the process.

Change is an inevitable part of life for all of us and it’s usually not until you experience a major life change that you begin to question the way in which you are currently doing things.

Change and transformation are inside jobs.

The key to unlocking the life you want starts from within. Commitment is the key. Change is not for the faint hearted, you have to be serious about wanting to change your life. It’s not something that someone else can do for you or make you do and unfortunately there is no magic pill.

Creating change requires going within, dissecting, and discovering fears and limitations that are preventing you from achieving your potential. Change requires you to be kind and open with yourself; it means that “YES” you'll feel uncomfortable sometimes when stepping outside of your "comfort zone" and I totally acknowledge that can be scary!

It’s scary because so often we view change as a LOSS of opportunity rather than a NEW opportunity to grow and develop. If life is not challenging, testing and pushing you, then it’s not helping you to realise your true potential.

I want you to really ponder the words of the following quote, read it a few times if you have to…..

“If we don’t change, we don’t grow.

If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.”

Now I think that is scary!

Erin Miller from Zest Holistic Coaching 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!

Contact me on 0418328441 or zestlifecoaching@gmail.com

At some point you will need to push the boundaries of what's familiar to make room for your bigger dreams, remember we only get one shot at life so let’s make it an extraordinary one!!

It’s a marvellous moment in time when you have the awareness to say to yourself, “something’s got to change, and it’s me!”

You realise that it’s not about changing the external circumstances of your life, but how you perceive and respond to these external circumstances. The good news is that with the right guidance and support anyone can transition from where they are now to where they want to be.

For further information please call 0418 328 441 or visit my website

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20th - 22nd May 2016 SHINE YOUR LIGHT WEEKEND RETREAT

You Have Gifts, Share Them. Shine Your Light Imagine if you did not have an inner critic and we were able to just live joyfully, shining your light without shame or fear of judgement. You would not hide. You would not make yourself small; you would embody LIGHT and be proud to have it spill out and over so that you can light up the world with your presence. Allow yourself to be immersed in a weekend of relaxation, rejuvenation & holistic healing. This retreat will restore your zest for life so you can leave feeling free to celebrate in your unique BIGNESS! • 2 nights’ accommodation in an exclusive house on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula with linen & towels provided.

• Delicious meals each day, morning & afternoon tea.

• Holistic Life Coaching workshops designed to have you “Shine Your Light!”

• Daily activities to align the mind, body & spirit.

• Intuitive Art Class - be guided to draw your Spirit Guides.

• Mandala Colouring, Vision Maps, Meditation & much more.

Erin Miller • Limited places available, small group size.

0418 328 441 • Register today for just $590 per person. zestlifecoaching@gmail.com • To secure your place visit my website for further information. www.zestholisticcoaching.com

ISSUE 26 AUTUMNCROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS

DOWN

1.

7.

8.

9.

10.

13.

14.

17.

19.

20.

1. Expert (5) 2. Walk aimlessly (7) 3. Instrument (6) 4. Snug (4) 5. Female (3) 6. Bothered (5) 11. Delight (7) 12. Edit text (6) 13. Robust (5) 15. Scans (4) 16. Edge (4) 18. Grasp (3)

Subdued (9) Sustenance (5) Rubbish (5) Lyricist (4) Pickle (4) Claim (4) Ground (4) Precipitous (5) Having skill (5) Craft (9)

issue 25 SUMMER puzzle Answers

GET THINKING thelifestyle autumn 2016

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YourMarketGuidetoAUTUMN BAIRNSDALE FARMERS’ MARKET

JINDIVICK COUNTRY MARKET

BERWICK AKOONAH PARK MARKET

JOHNSONVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET

BRIAGOLONG MAKERS MARKET

JUMBUNNA BUSH MARKET

CALLIGNEE COMMUNITY MARKET

KONGWAK MARKET

CHURCHILL ISLAND FARMERS’ MARKET & CRAFT MARKET

KOONWARRA FARMERS' MARKET

1st Saturday of every month – 8am-12noon Location Bairnsdale Secondary College Oval, McKean Street Contact John 5156 9342 or Ian 5152 3698 Every Sunday – 8am-1.30pm - Except 28 February Location Akoonah Park, cnr High & Cardinia Sts, Berwick Contact Gary Maker (03) 9796 1455 2nd Sunday of March – 8.30am-2pm Location Behind Riverstone Café Contact 5145 5304 or 0427 206 692

3rd Sunday of month – 8am-1pm October to May Location Callignee Hall Reserve Contact Lex 5147 3808

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island off Phillip Island Contact Peter Arnold 5664 0096

COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM FARMERS’ MARKET AND CRAFT MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm Location Coal Creek Community Park and Museum Car Park, Silkstone Rd, Korumburra Contact 5655 1811 - FREE Entry/Ample Parking

COWES ISLAND CRAFT MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 9am-2pm Location St Phillips Parish Hall and grounds, Thompson Ave, Cowes Contact Monica 0412 710 276 or 5678 8784

COWES MARKET ON CHAPEL

4th Saturday of month – 8.30am-2pm Location Uniting Church, Chapel St, Cowes Contact Darlene 0428 603 043

COWES NIGHT MARKET

Saturday , 5pm-9pm - 12 & 26 March Location The Esplanade, Cowes Contact Anne Marie 0419 560 293

DROUIN CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm Location Civic Park, Civic Place, Drouin Contact John 0419 428 564 Drouin Rotary Club

FARMERS’ MARKET @ THE OLD CHEESE FACTORY

2nd Saturday of month – 8am-12.30pm Location The Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick Contact Market Manager: Geoff Rankin 0407 968 841

FOSTER PROM COUNTRY FARMERS’ MARKET

1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm; May: 9am-1pm Closed June, July and August Location 1070 Jackson’s Track, Jindivick Contact Jindivick Harvest Kitchen 5628 5227 1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm Location Johnsonville Hall, Princes Highway Contact Perry 5156 4162 1st Sunday of the month – 8.30am-1pm Location Public Hall, Cruickshanks Road Contact Dawn Wylie 5657 3253 Every Sunday – 10am-3pm Location Korumburra Road, Kongwak Contact Jane 0417 142 478 1st Saturday of the month – 8am-12.30pm Location Memorial Park off Koala Drive (Held in adjoining Halls on wet days) Contact Rod 0408 619 182

KOOWEE COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Sunday of the month - 8am-1.30pm Location Koo Wee Rup Community Centre Cochrane Park Cnr Rossiter Rd & Sybella Ave Koo Wee Rup Contact 0418 289 847

LAKES ENTRANCE SURF CLUB FORESHORE MARKET

1st Sunday of the month – 9am-3pm Location Near the Rotunda - Foreshore, Lakes Entrance Contact Tom Morris 0407 098 805 or 5153 1916

LATROBE COUNTRY MARKET

Every Sunday - 8.30am-1.30pm Location Latrobe Road, Morwell (near Holmes Road) Contact 0449 294 453

LOCH LIONS VILLAGE MARKET

2nd Sunday of month – October to April – 9am-1pm Location Loch Railway Siding Contact Barry Worsburgh 0418 500 520

LUCKNOW MARKET

4th Sunday of the month - 8.30am-1pm Location Howitt Park, Princes Highway, East Bairnsdale Contact 0432 602 007

MAFFRA VARIETY & FARMERS’ MARKET 1st Sunday of month - 9am-1pm Location Main St/Johnson St, Maffra Contact Rob 0419 869 114

MALLACOOTA ARTISANS MARKET

1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm Location Mallacoota Mudbrick Pavilion, Maurice Ave Contact Leah 0467 856 236

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Foster War Memorial Arts Centre Main Street, Foster Contact Catherine McGlead 0407 543 371

MEENIYAN MID WEEK MARKET

FOSTER PROMONTORY PRODUCE & CRAFT MARKET

METUNG FARMERS’ MARKET

Sunday, 13 & 27 March – 8am-1pm Location Foster Showgrounds, Station Road Contact Max Parnell 5682 2654

GRANTVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET 4th Sunday of month - 8am-2pm Location Grantville Recreation Reserve Contact Pat 5997 6221

HEYFIELD COMMUNITY MARKET

1st Saturday of month – 8am-1pm Location John Greaves Memorial Park, Temple Street Contact 5148 3408 or 5148 2394

HILL END MARKET

3rd Sunday of Jan, March, Sept and Nov – 8am-1pm Location Old Hill End School Contact Chris 5635 2256

INVERLOCH COMMUNITY FARMERS' MARKET

3rd Thursday of month – 10am-2pm Location Whitelaw Street Contact Tracey Robertson 0402 995 063 2nd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm Location Village Green in Metung Contact Tracey O’Brien 0409 233 648

MIRBOO NORTH COUNTRY MARKET Last Saturday of month – 8am-2pm Location Baromi Park, 49 Ridgway Contact Bev Cook 5668 1688

MOSSVALE MARKET

Sunday, 20 March - 9am-2pm Location Mossvale Park Road, Berrys Creek Contact seedfolk@outlook.com

NEERIM DISTRICT ALLEY MARKET

4th Sunday of month – 9am-1pm Location 147 Main Neerim Road, Neerim South Contact 0409 090 725

NOOJEE STATION MARKET

Last Sunday of the month – 8am-1pm Location The Glade, Opposite Inlet Hotel, Inverloch Contact Tennille 0448 327 637

Last Sunday of the month – except Dec – 8am-2pm Closed June, July & August Location Noojee Heritage Centre and train station Contact Sharon Tauru 0419 380 997

INVERLOCH FARMERS’ MARKET

NOWA NOWA FARMERS MARKET

INVERLOCH ROTARY MARKET

OLD GIPPSTOWN HERITAGE PARK MARKET

3rd Sunday of the month – 8am-1pm Location The Glade, Opposite Inlet Hotel, Inverloch Contact Peter Arnold 0439 364 760 Saturday, 26 March – 9am-3pm Location Community Centre, A’Beckett Street Contact Ken 5663 5256

3rd Sunday of month – 9am-2pm Location Mingling Waters Caravan Park Contact 0409 233 648

3rd Sunday of month – 8am-2pm Location Pakenham Football Club, Toomuc Reserve Contact Noel 0422 822 688

thelifestyle autumn 2016

2nd Sunday of month - 8.30am-1pm Location Gilsenan Reserve Contact Lions Club 0400 327 526

PAYNESVILLE FARMERS MARKET 3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Gilsenan Reserve Contact Scott 0409 524 399

REH CORK CLUB CRAFT MARKET

2nd Saturday of month until May – 8am-1pm Location Kay Street Gardens, Traralgon Contact Chris Van Der Meer 0487 342 675

ROKEBY COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Saturday of month September to May– 8am-1pm Location Rokeby Reserve, Brandy Creek Road Contact 5626 8523

ROSEDALE COMMUNITY MARKET 2nd Sunday of month - 7.30am-1.30pm Location Prince Street Reserve Contact George Sharp 5199 2709

SALE PRODUCERS’ MARKET

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Sale Showgrounds enter from Maffra Rd Contact Cate 0404 40 128 (Craft) or Karen 0429 344 675 (Produce)

SALE CHARITY VARIETY MARKET

3rd Sunday of month - 7am-1pm Location Thomson River Canal Reserve Contact 5144 1258

SAN REMO CUPPA & CHAT MARKET

2nd Friday of month - Bric-a-brac, cakes & jams 9am-1pm 2nd Saturday of month - Sausage Sizzle 9am-12pm Location St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, Marine Parade Contact Roma Caulfield 5678 5386

STRATFORD VARIETY & FARMERS MARKET 4th Sunday of month - 9am-1pm Location McMillan Street, Stratford Contact Rob 0419 869 114

TARWIN LOWER MARKET

Public Holidays Mondays 14 and 28 March– - 8.30am-2pm Tarwin Lower Memorial Hall, Riverside Drive Contact: Anita 5663 7345

TARWIN LOWER LOCAL MARKET

Saturday, 26 March (Easter Market Tour de Tarwin) – 4pm-8pm and 23 April (Anzac Saturday) – 4pm-8pm Location Tarwin Lower Primary School, School Road Contact: 0410 466 260

TOORA COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 7.30-1pm Location Former Bonlac Store, Jetty Road, Toora Contact 5686 2690

TRARALGON FARMERS’ MARKET

4th Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Kay Street Gardens Contact 0409 232 715 Traralgon Lions Club

WARRAGUL ARTS MARKET

3rd Saturday of month – 9am-1pm October to March Location Civic Park Warragul Contact Jessie McLennan 5626 7045

WARRAGUL FARMERS MARKET 3rd Saturday of month – 8.30am-1pm Location 1 Civic Place, Warragul Contact 0425 259 177

WONTHAGGI MAKE IT BAKE IT MARKET 2nd Sunday of month, rain, hail or shine 9am-1pm Location McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi Contact Leah 0427 587 104

WONTHAGGI ROTARY MARKET

2nd Sunday of month - 8am-1pm Location Park, Murray St, Wonthaggi Contact Max Williams 5672 5204

YARRAGON COMMUNITY CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET

4th Saturday of month – 9am-1pm Location Yarragon Public Hall, Campbell St Contact Alison Butterworth 5634 2209

YARRAM VARIETY MARKET

1st Sunday of month - 8am-1pm Location Guide & Scout Hall, Yarram Contact 0419 362 083

3rd Saturday of month – 9am-2pm Location Lloyd Street, Moe Contact 5127 3082

PAKENHAM COMMUNITY MARKET

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PAYNESVILLE LIONS CLUB MARKET

If you require your event to be promoted please email Gippsland the Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

Chrissy’s Positive Horoscope Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20

Libra Sept 24 - Oct 23

Oh come on down Aries people and let yourself be seen, ‘tis the time for dancing and romancing, you are always great at leading the way when feeling confident in your own ability, so if there is something you want to get better at, book yourself in for some lessons real soon. If you are thinking of planning an overseas trip for the future this is also a good time to do so as you know when in a focused place you can tap into some great deals that can work in your favour. Keep that charm happening as you can have a wonderful effect on the people in your surroundings, which can also bring abundance happening in your life around mid March. Be choosy about who you are trusting!

Well this is a great time for finances for most Librans, there will be money entering your life from a channel other than your place of employment. This will be a time where you might allow yourself the pleasures of tapping into your spiritual side to heal a wound that has been with you for some time, once this has happened you will gain a new sense of being whilst having a sense of freedom. There might be a few relationship challenges, however you will be quick to get them sorted. Allow yourself the Freedom to be happy daily!

Secret Desire: To lead the way for others

Secret Desire: To live an easy, uncomplicated life

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22 Secret Desire: To triumph

Taurus Apr 21 - May 21

Secret Desire: To have a secure, happy and wealthy life/marriage

Whoa a sexy time ahead for seeking more passionate and loving relationships with a partner, if single this will be a time where you may just connect with someone that will set off some of those fireworks inside that have been sadly lacking. However it is not just about the sparks, it is also understanding and knowing the connection with that person that is bringing out the best in you, deep down you want that True Love to be existing in your everyday life. Career wise you will seek new opportunities, take a leap of faith and trust in what feels right for you, it absolutely will work when you set the intention. Pluto the planet of rebirth in your spiritual zone will be one of the biggest standout features of this year. Let the real true you be seen and feel proud of who you are and the difference you make. LEAP OF FAITH!

Gemini May 22 - June 21

Secret Desire: To be ahead of the crowd

Great time to STOP overanalysing as this can do your head in, so to speak. Allow yourself to gravitate to what draws your attention, keep it in the realms of noticing your feelings and being ok with who you are, even if you feel different to others or perhaps socially awkward, you have a lot to offer. Your vibrancy and childlike character can truly assist with lightening up on what could become a bit of drama. Allow your creative side to venture out, dance, sing, play a musical instrument and allow your body to be in the moment and truly feel it. You are becoming a very worldly person even when at times missing the closeness of family! Keep exploring the world and be CURIOUS!

Cancer Jun 22 - July 22

Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally, spiritually, romantically & financially)

It pays to have a little patience, it can be a time where you just want things to be happening now, allow yourself to enjoy the journey of the process that is required to take place to assist with your destination. You may have let go of a few toxic people in your life recently and looking for something new, it is a great time to look at a course you are interested in and educate yourself, this may also take place in another country let yourself see some of the world at large. Step out of your comfort zone you might be pleasantly SURPRISED!

Although you have been facing some challenging times, the next quarter will bring with it more settling moments and some big celebrations for you, keep using your intuition as it always works in your favour, however there are times when you have to back off a little for your own wellbeing and just let go of an outcome that is out of your control.

Sometimes when you are able to hand it over to the universal powers and trust is just when the magic happens, so focus your energies on how you want things to work for you, set the boundaries for the ones that seem to keep pushing them. Let your desires kick in and you will be amazed at what will happen. IT’S GOLD!

Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 21

Secret Desire: To make a difference in the world

The Planet of passion (Venus) spends from March 7th to May 27th in your sign, great time to be romantic and show your partner what it is that you adore about them, whilst knowing it yourself a big remembering factor is to make sure you LOVE the person you are first of all to be able to express yourself the way you really want to. Great time to seriously listen to your HEART not your head and notice when things are happening in your day how it is making you feel. Keep moving towards what you love and get that music playing that makes you feel like you want to move your body. You are at your best when you go with the flow with no judgment of others. LOVE! LOVE!!!

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 20

Secret Desire: to be admired by their family, friends & the world at large

Ah moments of recognizing the importance of good friendships, you may have a lot of acquaintances but only few special friends, so allow that spiritual side in and ask yourself the question of who is really important to you in your life right now and perhaps go and let them know how much their friendship means to you so as not to take it for granted. You will know as you will FEEL this warmth in your heart when thinking of them, very nice and special times for you to have these connections. There is possibly new opportunities arising within your career and you may find another company is wanting your experience in their business, make sure it is what you really want. A good time to put yourself in someone else’s shoes if you are being challenged by someone. Stay true to yourself and you can’t go wrong!

Aquarius Jan 21 - Feb 19

Secret Desire: To be unique and original

Leo July 23 - Aug 23

Secret Desire: To be a star

A Happy persona is in store for you this quarter, the planets will be in harmony with you or leave you alone, so things should run smoothly most of the time, apart from a few little challenges of which will be sorted quickly and easily. Some of you may find a few dramas going on in your love life and again you know you can get that sorted by not getting too caught up in things that are really out of your control. Take steps to working towards being healthy and fit as you know you travel a lot better when in that space. Stay fit to keep your FOCUS!

Saturn the planet of Focus and discipline has been in your 11th house of hopes for some time now, as you are a very social person you will find that you will start becoming a little more choosey as to who you want to spend time with, especially in social situations. Aquarians have a wonderful capacity to see the good in others but not always in themselves. See the amazing qualities within and you will create something where you can bring the ones you want with you as you sift out who are the true friends that will stand by you! HAVE TRUST!

Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20

Secret Desire: To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities

Virgo Aug 24 - Sept 23

Secret Desire: To love and be loved in return

This is a time where there can be some challenging decisions to be made concerning legalities from a divorce or separation, try to focus on the outcome that you want rather than why is this happening, do what you have to do then hand it over to your higher power and letting go of the outcome. In amongst the turmoil that you will find there will also be some very Fun times ahead with enjoyable celebrations with family and friends. Remember to take time out for you to nurture your soul, follow your heart.

New beginnings are arriving for you!

You will be noticing that your body and diet is becoming a more important issue for you in this quarter, your energy levels will increase once you begin to get on track by becoming more mindful of what you are involving yourself in on a daily basis. You may even become aware that not everyone has your best interests at heart. A time to dig deep inside and ask yourself, am l really being honest with myself and others.

It is definitely true that honesty is the best policy, even if it means that some people may not like what you have to say, it is required to be dealt with to make any changes.

There will be wedding bells in the air for a friend of yours and it will be a delightful celebration, allow yourself to kick up your heals and have some FUN, as life can get too serious when it’s all work and no play. Time to lighten up and have FUN!

Christine Malm | Mindfulness Facilitator Phone: 0414 735 165 Email:malmch@bigpond.com Website: www.positiveretreats.com.au and Mindfulness Meditation Classes visit www.lotuschiro.com

where you can get your copy GIPPSLAND LIFESTYLE OUTLETS

EVANS PETROLEUM OUTLETS

Bairnsdale newsXpress 21 Bailey St Bairnsdale Stow's Authorised 212 Main Street Benambra General Store 27 Gibbo Street Berwick Newsagency 29-31 High Street Boolarra Store & Newsagency 9 Tarwin Street Briagolong Riverstone Café 2/12 Forbes Street Bunyip IGA 2-6 Main Street Bunyip Newsagency Shop 2, 2-6 Main Street Cape Paterson The Cape Store 2-4 Market Place 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 Newsagency 52 Main Street Garfield Licensed Post Office 77 Main Street Glengarry General Store Main Street Golden Beach Blue Water Fish & Chips Gormandale General Store 13 Main Road Heyfield IGA 18-22 George Street Inverloch FoodWorks 10-12 Reilly Street Inverloch Newsagency 10 A'Beckett Street Jindivick General Store 1055 Jacksons Track Korumburra Michael's Supa IGA 1 South Railway Cres Lakes Entrance Lamanna's Newsagency 24 Myer Street Lakes Entrance Newspower 297 Esplanade Lang Lang IGA 32 Main Street Leongatha Michael's Supa IGA Cnr Church & Bruce Sts Loch Sport General Store 2-4 Government Road Maffra newsXpress 144 Johnson Street Mallacoota Authorised Newsagency & Lotto 14 Allan Drive Mallacoota FoodWorks 48-50 Maurice Avenue Marlo General Store 14-16 Argyle Parade Metung Village Store 62 Metung Road Mirboo North Newsagency 52 Ridgway Morwell Card Alley Shop 33 Mid Valley Shopping Centre Morwell Newsagency 174-176 Commercial Road Neerim Junction General Store Main Road Neerim South FoodWorks 147 Main Road Newborough Newsagency 30 Rutherglen Road Newhaven IGA 8/10 Forrest Drive Newry General Store Main Street Omeo Post Office 155 Day Avenue Orbost FoodWorks 70-78 Nicholson Street Pakenham Newsagency 99-101 Main Street Paynesville Newsagency 65a The Esplanade Poowong Takeaway Fish & Chips 6 Ranceby Street Rosedale Newsagency 1 Prince Street Sale Lord's Authorised Newsagency 248 Raymond Street Sale Newsagency 308-310 Raymond Street San Remo IGA 135 Main Parade Stratford IGA 67 Tyers Street Swan Reach General Store 2025 Princes Highway Swifts Creek General Store Great Alpine Road Tarwin Lower IGA 45 River Drive Tinamba General Store Maffra-Rosedale Road Toora FoodWorks 66 Stanley Street Tooradin IGA 104 South Gippsland Hwy Trafalgar IGA 5 McCrorey Street Trafalgar Newsagency 97 Princes Hwy Traralgon Newsagency & Lotto 51-55 Franklin Street Traralgon Newsagency 70 Seymour Street Ventnor The Anchorage Caravan Park Ventnor Road Venus Bay General Store 139 Jupiter Blvd Walhalla Museum Walhalla Road Warragul Newsagency & Officesmart 43 Victoria Street Welshpool Supermarket 18 Main Street Willow Grove General Store 8 Main Road Wonthaggi Newsagency 31 Murray Street Yallourn North Supermarket 42-44 North Road Yanakie General Store 3640 Meeniyan-Promontory Road Yarragon Penny Worth O’ Lollies 1/101 Princes Hwy Yarram newsXpress 195-197 Commercial Road Yinnar General Store 44 Main Street

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 Sale 344-350 Raglan Street Toora 26 Foster Road Wonthaggi 103-105 McKenzie Street Yarram 325 Commercial Street

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thelifestyle autumn 2016

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 Headlites Pty Ltd via email to: thelifetyle@dcsi.net.au Disclaimer: Headlites Pty Ltd has the discretion to add or remove words or photos that are deemed unsuitable for the magazine. Gippsland the Lifestyle Magazine©Headlites Pty Ltd 2016. Headlites 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 Headlites 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.

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY & LOTTO

31 Murray Street, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 1256 Monday to Friday 6.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 6.30am to 2.30pm | Sunday Closed

the

BOOK NOOK on the shelf now

This issue we’re featuring a genre that will surprise you with the depth and interest of plot and character and that’s young adult fiction. If you haven’t picked up something to read in this genre then take a chance and you’ll be very entertained.

Not If I See You First by Eric Lindstrom Everyone has secrets. Everyone is a secret. Parker Grant doesn't need perfect vision to see right through you. That's why she created The Rules: Don't treat her any differently just because she's blind, and never take advantage. There will be no second chances. When Scott Kilpatrick, the boy who broke her heart, suddenly reappears at school, Parker knows there's only one way to react – shun him so hard it hurts. She has enough to deal with already, like trying out for the track team, handing out tough-love advice to her painfully naive classmates, and giving herself gold stars for every day she hasn't cried since her dad's death. But avoiding her past quickly proves impossible, and the more Parker learns about what really happened – both with Scott and her dad – the more she starts to question if things are always as they seem. Combining a fiercely engaging voice with true heart, the story illuminates those blind spots that we all have in life, whether visually impaired or not.

Close To The Wind by Jon Walter Arriving at the port, Malik and his grandfather prepare to spend the night in an abandoned house. But their rest is disturbed by the arrival of two men, who want to know how much money they have. It is the beginning of their desperate attempt to secure passage on the boat.

Malik must find the ability to survive alone, in strange company, if he is to escape. In the end all he possesses is his courage, his sense of right and wrong and a cat called Booty. The drama is nail-biting, the characterization beautiful, and the conclusion an emotional storm.

Dead Upon A Time by Elizabeth Paulson Set in London in the Spring of 1949, the story follows Ada an ambitious seamstress who has a career in couture in Dover Street, if only she can break free from the dreariness of her family life in Lambeth. She meets the enigmatic Stanislaus and is catapulted into the world of glamour and romance.

War is declared, Stanislaus abandons her in Paris and she finishes up in Dachau. She survives the only way she knows how: by being a dressmaker. This is a decision that will haunt her during the war and its devastating aftermath. The book is worth spending time with.

featured children’s book author JULIA DONALDSON Julia Donaldson grew up in a tall terraced Victorian London house and with her younger sister Mary she was always creating imaginary characters and mimicking real ones. Julia studied Drama and French at Bristol University, where she met Malcolm, a guitar-playing medic whom she married. Julia says:

Before Malcolm and I had our family, we used to go busking together and I would write special songs for each country. The busking led to a career in singing and songwriting, mainly for children’s television. I became an expert at writing to order on such subjects as guinea pigs, window-cleaning and horrible smells. “We want a song about throwing crumpled-up wrapping paper into the bin” was a typical request from the BBC. One of my television songs, A Squash and a Squeeze, was made into a book in 1993, with illustrations by the wonderful Axel Scheffler. My real breakthrough was The Gruffulo, again illustrated by Axel.

When I’m not writing I am often performing, at book festivals and in theatres. I really enjoy getting the children in the audience to help me act out the stories and sing the songs. When Malcolm can take time off from the hospital he and his guitar come too, and it feels as if we’ve come full circle - back to busking.

watch for these coming soon The Glittering Court Richelle Mead

Foster’s Little Bookshop

More of Me Kathryn Evans

One True Thing Nicole Hayes

4 Station Road, Foster 3960 ph (03) 5682 2089 visit www.fosterslittlebookshop.com.au

read our blog

thelifestyle autumn 2016

145

Blue

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.

START THE RETIREMENT YOU HAVE WORKED TOWARD.... CALL THE TEAM AT B LU E H I L L S R I S E TODAY ( 0 3 ) 5 9 9 1 5 0 0 0

Hills Rise 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?'

Well, 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 to the last. You will quickly realise that the Resort Owners, Judy and Ivan Clarkson and 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.

fantastic Onsite facilities Swimming Pool / Spa Indoor Bowls Dance Floor Tennis Courts Alfresco CafĂŠ - Orange Leaf Gymnasium Library Restaurant Sports Bar Cinema Arts and Crafts Centre Administration Centre ATM Computer Room BOWLING GREEN

Call David, Rikki or Janice today to kick off the retirement you have worked towards

Open 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, or via appointments on the weekend.

Blue Hills Rise 240 Berwick-Cranbourne Road Cranbourne East 3977

phone: 03 5991 5000

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We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver tailored insurance solutions for our clients but more importantly that we are there in the times when our clients need us most.

Insurance claims are stressful enough, but having a Broker like Alan Wilson Insurance Brokers to guide you through the process will help reduce the stress and allow you to concentrate on your business.

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Contact our office for further information and see how we're working for you.

“WORKING FOR YOU” 24 Hotham Street, Traralgon

1300 888 111

info@awib.com.au

Christmas Hours – Open 5 days a week 9am – 5pm except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day

www.awib.com.au