Gippsland the Lifestyle Autumn 2015

the lifestyle. Our pride, Our place™ autumn issue 22 GIPPSLAND LAKES

Science Meets Nature

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GALLIPOLI Gippsland Remembers

RAY MASSARO Latrobe Valley Icon

FICIFOLIA FESTIVAL

Street Fun in Drouin

PLUS NEW FEATURES INSIDE

ISSN 1838-8124

+ REGULAR FEATURES Horoscope | Book Reviews | Canine Corner | Puzzle | Cartoon | Gardening Tips

editorial

Welcome to Autumn and to our ground breaking 22nd edition!

EDITORIAL writers Chris West, Lyn Skillern, Amber Rhodes, Alexandra McManus, Madeleine Stuchbery and Hannah Keily contributors Jan Bull, Ali Fullard, Chrissy Malm, Tamara Addison, Erin Miller, Laurie Collins, Craig Goodman, John Turner MAAPM, Ian Beer, Trevor Stow and Jim Radford cartoonist Mark Knight photographers Amber Rhodes, Simon Groves Douglas Pell, Madeleine Stuchbery and Hannah Keily advertising Douglas Pell and Alison McDougal editor Maree Bradshaw creative Alex Smirnakos

This edition is a very special one where we have two wonderful features dedicated to the commemoration of the Anzacs, being the 100th year since the landings at Gallipoli. Lyn Skillern’s story on the South Gippslanders that were involved in this historical event is truly remarkable, and our new writer Madeleine Stuchbery has penned a wonderful piece on the small community of Aberfeldy who has banded together in the true Anzac spirit to create the Memorial Seat of Reflection in honour of Gallipoli.

A superb feature by Alexandra McManus on the survey of wildlife of the Gippsland Lakes that is being led by Mark Norman, Head of Sciences at Museum Victoria, in partnership with Gippsland Lakes Ministerial Advisory Committee and Parks Victoria. The outstanding images are supplied to us, courtesy of the Museum Victoria.

Chris West has looked at the life of well-known Gippsland businessman Ray Massaro. His insightful story reads like a history book, but is a great tribute to a person that is a true Gippsland character.

Sam Twite is one of those people who has been able to match creativity and business proficiencies together to establish himself as one of the finest stonemasons in Gippsland, and Amber Rhodes has been able to capture this in her story.

We are blessed with many fine writers and contributors and a special thanks to Mark Knight, Herald Sun Cartoonist and Tonimbuk resident, who kindly contributed to our magazine with one of his great cartoons.

FRONT COVER: Maniacal Cackle Tree Frog photograph captured by Rodney Start of Museum Victoria See Pages 12 to 16 for the Gippsland Lakes: Science meets Nature

Also, we have four new contributors to the magazine: Gippsland Grooves our new music feature writer Ian Beer; Zest for Life holistic coaching by Erin Miller; Google culture by Jim Radford and Off the Hook by fishing writer Trevor Stow.

There are many people to thank with this edition, more contributors and more features; and feel we are about presenting a balanced insight into the lifestyle of Gippsland and it is certainly plentiful!

index

Maree and Doug Pell Our Pride Our Place

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18

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32

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48

60

72

76

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80

contents Page 1 Page 12 – 16 Page 18 – 19 Page 20 – 21 Page 26 – 27 Page 28 – 30 Page 32 – 33 Page 34 – 35 Page 40 – 41 Page 48 – 49 Page 50 Page 52 – 53 Page 60 – 61 Page 68 – 69 Page 70 Page 72 – 73 Page 76 – 77 Page 78 – 79 Page 80 – 83 Page 84 – 86 Page 87 Page 88 – 89 Page 90 Page 92 – 94 Page 100 – 102 Page 108 – 109 Page 112 – 113 Page 116 - 117

Maniacal Cackle Tree Frog by Rodney Start MV Science meets nature at the Gippsland Lakes Paynesville Music Festival Highlights Boutique Bairnsdale Escape Drouin Ficifolia Festival Highlights Legally Blonde Starring Role Wild Dog Winery Feature Tarago River Cheese Feature Set in Stone: Sam Twite Stone Mason Phillip Island’s Winter Whales BEANd Recipe Page The Paint Place Generations Breeding Success: Michael Hull Prom Coast Seachange Festival 2015 Double Book Launch: Terry Guilford & Susan Godenzi Fish Creek Village Feature Ride the Wild Goat ‘Finding Beauty’ Tarra Bulga & Balook Rainforest Rhythms Deals on Wheels: Ray Massaro Gallipoli from a South Gippsland Perspective Gallipoli Rosemary: The Avenues of Honour Aberfeldy Remembers Gallipoli 100th Anniversary Commemorative Poppy Seeds City of Traralgon Band Tour: A March into History Racing & Relaxation at Stony Creek Gold Fever: Prospecting with Richard Darby Orbost’s Best-Kept Bakery Secret Geek Fest Highlights 2015

regular features 84

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Page 5 Page 6 Page 9 Page 64 – 65 Page 97 Page 105 Page 118 – 119 Page 120 – 122 Page 124 Page 126 – 127 Page 128 Page 129 Page 130 – 131 Page 131 Page 132 – 133 Page 134 Page 135 Page 136 Page 137

Editorial | Features Index of Advertisers Decorating Dilemmas – Treehouse Living | House Prowd Off the Hook with Trevor Stow Gardening Tips: Grow Master Traralgon Improvements in Health Services: Wonthaggi Medical Group Getting Your Business Found On Google Gippsland Grooves: Foster Uncovered Ali’s Art Page Your Autumn Events Guide Your Autumn Markets Guide Laurie’s Autumn in West Gippsland Canine Corner Cartoon by Mark Knight Zest for Life: Your Perfect Day, Everyday…

Chrissy’s Positive Horoscope The Book Nook – Foster’s Little Bookshop Outlets of where you can get your Copy of Gippsland the Lifestyle Autumn Crossword Puzzle

thelifestyle autumn 2015

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index advertisers

our advertisers Page 67

AHERNS FRUIT MARKET & FINE FOODS

Page 10

MOOS AT MEENIYAN

Page 125

ALI FULLARD ART STUDIO

Page 31

MUMMA GOOSE

Page 71

ALISON LESTER BOOKS

Page 56

NATURAL INDULGENCE HAIR & WELLNESS

Page 23

ANN WALLER REAL ESTATE

Page 54

PAINT PLACE GROUP OF STORES

Page 95

ALAN WILSON INSURANCE BROKERS

Page 24

PARKS VICTORIA – BUCHAN CAVES RESERVE

Page 75

BASIA MILLE VINEYARD

Page 58

PARNASSUS GUEST HOUSE | WINERY | EATERY

Page 51

BEANd MICRO COFFEE ROASTERY & STORE

Page 70

PROM COAST SEACHANGE FESTIVAL

Page 114

BELGRAVIA LEISURE: EXPLORE MT BAW BAW

Page 38

C & M RED HAT CHOCOLATE & COFFEE

Page 38

BIDDY MARTHA’S

Page 98

REGIONAL VICTORIA LIVING EXPO 2015

Page 138-139 BLUE HILLS RISE

Page 123

RUBY’S RETRO

Page 125

BRIAGOLONG B & B CORNER COTTAGE

Page 22

THE RIVERSLEIGH BAIRNSDALE

Page 39

BUTCHER SHOP HOTEL

Page 122

SALA SIAM Thai Imports

Page 46

CAPE TAVERN - CAPE PATERSON

Page 42

SAM TWITE STONEWORKS

Page 37

CAR MEGAMART.com.au

Page 38

SARAH TOWN & COUNTRY

Page 4

COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM

Page 55

SPACE FLOORING AND INTERIORS

Page 27

CRAIG FISON

Page 62

STONY CREEK GO-KARTS

Page 63

CRAWFORD MARINE

Page 103

STONY CREEK RACING CLUB

Page 59

DALKEITH HEIGHTS

Page 125

SUGAR BOOKS STRATFORD

Page 56

DOWNTOWNER WARRAGUL SPORTING & SOCIAL CLUB

Page 36

TARAGO RIVER CHEESE COMPANY

Page 71

DROUIN SIGNS

Page 137

THE 3 CHEEKY MONKEYS

Page 25

DWYERS.com.au

Page 106

THE BLUE DUCK INN

Page 7

EDNEYS LEONGATHA – NISSAN QASHQAI

Page 111

THE MINERS COTTAGES

Page 74

EVANS PETROLEUM – FISH CREEK

Page 43

TRARALGON AUTOMOTIVE GROUP – Traralgon Toyota

Page 75

FISH CREEK HOTEL

Page 115

TRARALGON AUTOMOTIVE GROUP - Wights Hyundai

Page 66

FOSTER SEAFOODS

Page 99

TRARALGON AUTOMOTIVE GROUP – Wights Nissan

Page 27

FRENCH PEAR CAFÉ

Page 44 & 45 TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB

Page 17

GIPPSLAND LAKES MINISTERIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Page 11

TREASE BUILDERS

Page 107

GOLDEN AGE HOTEL

Page 8

TREEHOUSE LIVING HOMEWARES & DESIGN

Page 63

GRINTER TRANSPORT SERVICES

Page 2

VALLEY PRESTIGE BMW – S 1000 R Roadster

Page 96

GROWMASTER TRARALGON

Page 3

VALLEY PRESTIGE BMW – 2 Series Active Tourer

Page 119

IMAGE DIRECT

Page 57

WARRAGUL HARNESS RACING

Page 56

KASAMA DÉCOR

Page 47

WILDCOAST CRUISES – WINTER WHALE CRUISES P.I.

Page 31

LAURIE COLLINS SCULPTURE

Page 31

WILD DOG WINERY

Page 91

LEONGATHA RSL

Page 104

WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP

Page 140

MASSARO VOLKSWAGEN – TIGUAN

Page 125

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY – ART SUPPLIES

Page 136

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY & TATTSLOTTO

SALES & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 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

is printed by Graphic Impressions 1 Miles Street Mulgrave Victoria 3170 Australia Telephone: 03 9574 9211 Fax: 03 9574 8029 www.gimpressions.com.au

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

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decorating dilemmas Do you have an uninspiring room with boring walls and floors, dodgy lighting, or just too much stuff going on all at once? I gathered together 3 decorating headaches and their solutions.

Pantone Colour

Choice of Fabrics Buying Art

Q. The Pantone colour of the year for 2015 is Marsala (Pantone 18-1438). Who sets the trend and how can I incorporate this colour in my home?

Q. I get so confused choosing fabrics for furniture pieces such as sofas. What should I look for when choosing fabric?

Q. I want to get into buying some art for my home. What should I look out for?

Jason - via email

Gemma via email

A. The art world can be very intimidating for the beginner collector but with easy access to the internet you are only a mouse click away. Personally, I like to see the artwork in the flesh - so for you as the aspiring collector your goal is to buy quality not quantity.

Alice B, via email

A. Pantone is the colour forecasting authority that has been contributing to colour forecasts for 50 years or more.

Marsala the colour displays rich and fullbodied characteristics without being too overpowering in an interior space. Marsala can have a plush feel and it is enhanced when applied to textured surfaces, making it an ideal choice for rugs and upholstered living room furniture. My prediction is that it will feature predominantly in striping and floral patterns found in throws, cushions, bedding, and kitchen ware.

A. Good quality fabric can make any room feel right. Great fabric defines a piece of furniture and it determines things like function, comfort and durability. Here are some helpful tips that will make your decision making a little easier.

Tip 1 - A simple but very effective trick is to keep to basics, keep windows and walls neutral, but introduce strong fabric statements in cushions, occasional chairs, and accessories.

Tip 2 - Go for contrasts - mix big and small patterns, checks and stripes, floral’s with plains, old with new, modern with retro, and smooth with rough fabrics.

Tip 3 - Anything goes from over the top fabric to inexpensive cottons, as long as the fabric feels good and it’s suitable for its intended purpose.

The golden rule that I always stick to is BUY WHAT YOU LIKE… no point in hanging something on the wall if you hate it. So, visit lots of galleries and art shops to determine your preferred style of art.

Many emerging artists will exhibit at these galleries.

A great way to start your collection is to look for works on paper, photographs, lithographs, silkscreens, vintage posters and limited edition prints. Remember to keep records of your purchases - for this information adds provenance to your art piece and can increase its value if and when you want to ever resell it. Lots of galleries hold free talks and workshops, which will give you an insider’s guide to artwork. Lastly, trust your eye and your instinct and have fun buying your art for your home.

Happy Decorating! Tam x

Tamara Addison 0439 341 520 Find Me On: Blog: ww.houseprowd.com Email: houseprowd.@gmail.com thelifestyle autumn 2015

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Science

meets nature at the

GIPPSLAND LAKES Ally McManus

MV Peter Lillywhite Mitchell River National Park

gippsland east gippsland

wellington baw baw

latrobe bass coast

south gippsland

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

MV Mark Norman male water dragon head

MV Leon Altis mangroves

GIPPSLAND LAKES BIOSCAN MV John Broomfield reptile team

When someone mentions the Gippsland Lakes, images of fishing, tourists on the beach and an inundation of boats come to mind. But what often fails to make the cut is the wildlife encompassing the area – everything from frogs and birds, to snakes and butterflies.

Mark Norman is Head of Sciences at Museum Victoria, with over 30 years experience in the sector. The Museum’s focus this year is on an initiative called the Gippsland Lakes Bioscan. In partnership with the Gippsland Lakes Ministerial Advisory Committee and Parks Victoria, they were given a grant to conduct a large group of surveys on the wildlife.

When I ask Mark why the Gippsland Lakes, he explains how they’re breaking down the stereotype of the area to increase awareness and highlight its importance in other areas, like wildlife.

“I think the Gippsland Lakes are very familiar to some people for the fish and the sea birds and the boating, and it’s a very beautiful place. But I don’t think most people realise how much it covers. The catchment that feeds those lakes covers some of the most beautiful parts of Victoria,” says Mark.

MV David Paul shortfin eel

Mark’s team is making a focus on four different areas to cover in the Bioscan: the forests, the rivers, the wetlands and the lakes. “It’s almost like a whole continent in one place; you’re covering every habitat in one area,” he says.

thelifestyle autumn 2015

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Science

meets nature at the

GIPPSLAND LAKES

MV Grace Lewis gorge Mitchell River

MV David Paul Australian bass juvenile

BIOSCAN PART ONE CONDUCTING THE SURVEYS Their surveys entail conducting large scientific explorations to find out as much about the wildlife as possible. They can last for as long as two weeks at a time, and involve approximately 30 people for each one.

“Some people get in the rivers, some people get in the treetops, and some people pull snakes out from under logs,” Mark says. The surveys are focused on netting, recording, observing and sampling.

MV David Paul stag beetle

They have experts on insects, reptiles, frogs, mammals, fish, spiders, crustaceans, shellfish and birds; to cover anything they might run into while on site conducting the surveys. Mark’s group also conduct surveys during the night, where they use sound recording machines, set up traps and use all sorts of creative methods to record the data.

Mark tells me that last year their survey results were quite amazing, “in just four days we ended up with 78 species of birds spotted, and over 300 species of moths at special light stations at night.” They set up a large sheet with a special globe that attracted all the moths. Mark referred to it as “the world’s biggest porch”.

“We’ve got a real focus on the groups that rarely get studied. There’s a lot of work being done on dolphins and sea birds and fish – but that’s about 0.01 per cent of the number of species that live in the area. So we’re looking at all the rest,” he says.

Collating this information back at the museum is also incredibly vital to the process, so the data can be used in many years to come to highlight changes that have occurred over time.

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

MV John Broomfield skink MV Mark Norman brown snake face

BIOSCAN PART TWO ENGAGING THE PUBLIC The second focus of the Bioscan is promoting the engagement of the public. “This is where the public can become citizen scientists and join us in our explorations,” Mark says.

MV John Broomfield roos play fighting

They have undertaken a series of weekends over the last few months to do just that. The group showcased marine systems and the saltwater influence into the Gippsland Lakes.

“We had divers going down and nets coming up with animals being shown,” says Mark.

Another weekend focused on walks, talks and explorations about the Gippsland wetlands.

They looked extensively at the birdlife, frogs and other creatures living in that system.

The last weekend expedition focused on the forest and land creatures, which encompassed more hands-on activities including night walks and observing pockets of rainforests. “It’s a case for us to both record what’s there, but also identify them with the public, and then the public can help spot things or help us sort the samples.”

MV David Paul Imperial Blue

MV Patrick Honan cicada face

MV Peter Lillywhite museum scientist sorting aquatic animals

MV Rodney Start fly

MV Mark Norman purple flower

MV Ken Harris Emperor Gum Moth

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LONG-TERM GOAL OF THE BIOSCAN The long-term goal for the Bioscan involved taking lots of photos throughout the surveys.

In January their archive was at about 10,000 images, with an expectation to have between 20,000 and 30,000 by the end of the expeditions.

MV Grace Lewis bee-eaters

MV Wendy Moore hatching cicada

Museum Victoria reaches out to over five million people a year online, so it only seemed like the perfect fit to team an initiative with an organisation that has such incredible digital presence. They’re simply highlighting information that is significant to the public’s interest and concerns, and in an aesthetically pleasing and hands-on manner.

“The Museum’s Act says that we’ve got a role to document the state of the natural science of Victoria, but also to get that to the public in interesting and engaging ways.” They’re succeeding with this mission through various exhibitions, programs, outreach vans across the state and of course, the extensive surveys as part of the Bioscan.

MV Rodney Start emperor gum moth caterpillar

“The aim is to put the best images into a free smartphone and tablet app, that’s a field guide to the wildlife of the Gippsland Lakes,” Mark tells me, which they’re planning on releasing in December 2015. They’ve already got a field guide to the wildlife of Victoria that Museum Victoria put out as a free app, but they’re designing one that will be specific to Gippsland.

“The idea is when you’re at the Gippsland Lakes, you can pull up the same bird or play the sound of that bird and hear it’s call.” The Bioscan surveys will be completed by the end of March and the rest of the year will be left to collate all the data and prepare it for the app.

MV John Broomfield bird team

Mark believes that the Bioscan is an incredibly great opportunity for the Gippsland community to get involved with local wildlife, and he doesn’t underestimate their knowledge and skills. As much as the team at the Museum is relying on their expertise and resources, they need the public’s help while they’re not on site conducting the surveys.

“The locals are the one’s that are there all the time,” Mark says, placing an emphasis on the Bairnsdale and District Field Naturalists’ Club and BirdLife Australia who are very active groups in the community. “I’d like to recognise the knowledge that’s in the area already.”

MV Marilyn Hewish caterpillar

Photographs supplied by Museum Victoria and Gippsland Lakes Ministerial Advisory Committee

They’re also in the process of setting up a Gippsland Lakes Bioscan webpage through BowerBird, an existing citizen science website.

The point of this process is so the public can submit their own wildlife sightings and where they’re spotting them. Mark tells me that his group is very interested in seeking the public’s knowledge, as they find this equally as valuable as their surveys.

“We’re seeking people’s wildlife stories and sightings, particularly with images because we’re only conducting the surveys for a short snapshot. There are people who live there yearround, and animals have different cycles and seasons.

There’s also an enormous pool of local expertise in Gippsland, there’s so many excellent bird experts and there’s frog researchers and insect experts. The local community have strong natural history knowledge with a wildlife focus.

We’re keen to involve those people, but also have them submit their sighting and stories to help us.”

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

MV David Paul Rocky River Tree frog both sexes

PAY N E S V I L L E FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS 2015 Photographs by Simon Groves

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

thelifestyle autumn 2015

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Transforming a historical Victorian property into a

BOUTIQUE BAIRNSDALE ESCAPE

Ally McManus

The Riversleigh was transformed from top to bottom. It was a full refurbishment, updating everything from new air conditioners to new beds and linen.

Rachel explains there was a real need for a function venue in Bairnsdale, so they decided to turn the former restaurant into a function room. They cater for small conferences and can host weddings of up to 130 people. “It’s really versatile,” says Rachel. To make it even easier, the wedding party can book out the whole 20 rooms for guests who also want to stay at the premises after the function.

When Rachel Bromage got her very first job at 1 Nicholson Street, Bairnsdale, she had no idea that one day she would be running the same business some 20 years on.

Since opening on December 20 2013, Rachel and her father Michael Banson refurbished the beautiful historical hotel and restored it to its former glory.

The renovations they undertook to get the property up to standard were very time consuming and thorough. But they wanted to ensure they were giving guests the best quality they could produce, while keeping the style of the building relative to its Victorian era.

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

“Everything can be on site, and there’s a beautiful little gazebo with roses growing over it, it’s a lovely spot for a ceremony,” she says. They’ve got quite a few weddings booked in for 2015, which is showing the success of the newly renovated venue only a few months after opening.

When the Banson family took ownership, they felt very strongly about updating the state of the building, much like the community did too. “A lot of people in Bairnsdale, ourselves included, were really sad when it got to the state that it did. It was tired and needed so much time and money spent on it.

I think everybody is really happy that it is back again. People can come and use it as a function venue, and they’ve got a place for their relatives to stay again. It’s good for everybody and I think it’s a nice icon for Bairnsdale - it’s really the only building of its kind now left here.”

The family knew what style they were after when they embarked on renovating The Riversleigh.

“We wanted to keep the elegance of the Victorian era, but also bring in a fresh modern touch. You walk in and it doesn’t feel dowdy and drab like some of the old buildings can. It’s got a really light, fresh feel about it. But it still has the antique furniture, high ceilings and big arks, so all of the beautiful features of the old building are there, just with a fresh boutique feel about it.”

The building was originally built in 1884 as three terrace houses. It was then converted to a hotel about 30 years ago, “it was many different things over the 100 odd years from doctor surgeries, to rooms when the hospitals were full, to different people’s residences,” Rachel tells me, and I learn that before it was converted to a hotel it

was actually community housing. The building has come an incredibly long way since the family took ownership.

Rachel loves to see guests come in that have seen this transition of the historical building.

“The best thing is when people from an older generation come in, look at it and say ‘oh my gosh, I used to stay in this room here, this was my lounge room, this was my bedroom.’ They’re just really happy with the result of how it looks today,” Rachel tells me. “We’ve had quite a few people come in that the building means a lot to.”

Every Friday night from 5pm The Riversleigh also runs a tapas and wine bar. “It’s a great way for the locals to either come straight after work, or meet up with a group of friends for someone’s birthday.” People can sit outside in the courtyard or backyard if it’s a mild summer night, or there are plenty of areas inside the hotel to accommodate those after some comfort indoors.

Rachel also hopes that The Riversleigh will become East Gippsland’s premier wedding venue, as they have designed the premises to suit intimate weddings perfectly. She believes the building has finally found it’s calling. “We really haven’t changed anything structurally, we’ve just bought it back to life. When you walk in, it just feels like it’s been there forever and it’s going to be there forever, it has a really nice feel about it.”

Rachel loves how versatile the job is. “There’s never any day the same. One day I might be gardening, the next day doing marketing and the next day I could be cleaning rooms.” She adores how each day poses a different activity and because it’s a small business, “we all do all of the areas of business ourselves, it’s really enjoyable.”

She also can’t find a fault in running The Riversleigh. “I’ve just loved it. From the project management right through to the operational stages of it – I’ve enjoyed every bit of it – even scrubbing the floors,” she says through a laugh.

Both her family and the community have played a tremendous role in getting the business up and running, and she couldn’t be more grateful or proud to be a local Bairnsdale family.

It brings a smile to Rachel’s face thinking back to when she was first employed at the premises.

This was when Lindy and Marshall Waters were the first operators of the building, just after it was turned into a hotel. “I used to dream about it as an 18-year-old, that one day I’d love to run The Riversleigh. It’s amazing how your dreams can come true.”

Photographs supplied by The Riversleigh

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Backformer to it'sglory

Personalised, attentive service and a sense of tranquil relaxation are among the hallmarks of a stay at The Riversleigh where you’ll enjoy the warmth of a country hotel combined with the luxury you expect from contemporary boutique accommodation.

Located in the heart of Bairnsdale’s central business district on a quiet street over-looking the Mitchell River, The

Riversleigh features elegant period fittings with tastefully-appointed modern rooms, providing a unique accommodation experience to our guests.

With 20 rooms designed to meet every one of our guests’ individual needs, you will enjoy beautifullydesigned rooms, each with ensuite some including spa baths. Relax in

the picturesque courtyard set against the magnificent backdrop of one of the oldest and most unique residences in beautiful East Gippsland.

Built in 1886, this East Gippsland icon is now under new ownership and management and this grand example of Victorian architecture has recently undergone a complete renovation.

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

Set in the heart of Destination Gippsland, Bairnsdale is the gateway to glorious East Gippsland, within easy drive of the high country, mountain resorts, rainforest drives, the Gippsland Lakes, Ninety Mile Beach and river, lake and ocean fishing activities.

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Whether a Buyer or a Seller, you will feel very welcomed by Ann's happy persona, and her knowledge of the Real Estate Market.

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Coaches to Cars A History of Dwyers 1898 to 1971

1898 Jeremiah Dwyer, a young man,

built a small shop in Nicholson Street Bairnsdale operating as General Blacksmith and Farrier before the Boer War.

1902 Buildings were extended to accommodate the manufacture and repair of farm implements. Stables and grain storage facilities were constructed facing Bailey Street.

1906

Jeremiah married Jane Giles from Meerlieu and built a home at Picnic Point, then broadacres, now 24 Riley Street, West Bairnsdale.

1908 The building of buggies, jinkers, drays, wagons and carts was in full swing. Built to order – cash or time payment, free stabling for customers!

1912 Listed in “East Gippsland Coach Factory” Wheelwright Rubber Tyring while you wait. Paint and Trim shop operating.

1914

World War One introduced vehicle servicing at Dwyers. Jeremiah drove an Oakland car from Picnic Point every day. The family firm now advertised as “opposite the Post Office”. How the phone numbers have grown:- 94 – 3094 – 52 3094 – 5152 3094.

1920

Jeremiah and Jane Dwyer had three children. Kathleen Dwyer married Tom McMahon – two children John and Michael. John Dwyer married Clare Suding – two children Kevin and Carmel. Frank Dwyer died in 1943 while serving in the R.A.A.F.

1927 Accepted franchise for English cars: Hillman and Rover. John Dwyer started work with the firm on 27th October for a very long innings.

1929 First garage in Bairnsdale to introduce Duco spraying. American cars available: Rigby and Graham Page. International financial markets crashed. The Great Depression!

It was tough surviving in a small business. A barter system evolved whereby people who had no money paid the bills with pumpkins and chickens etc., a practice that continued for many years.

1937

Diamond T trucks and Austin cars. The latter remained with Dwyers until 1968 – Austin 7 horsepower retail price 199 pounds. Today – who knows?

1939 Dodge, Hudson and Chrysler – many makes available. Really fierce competition in the marketplace. Then World War II started, vehicle supplies

stopped, sales ceased, everything changed to War production. National recruiting created staff shortages.

Workshop engineering demands for the services of both the Land Army and the Bairnsdale R.A.A.F. Base stretched our capacity.

1946 Saw the demolition of all the old buildings, stables etc., a huge auction held, brass lamps, equipment, buggies. Everything went including a lot of history. What did not sell was broken up and thrown in the tip. Regretfully in hindsight! All in the name of modernising. Out with the old, in with the new.

1949

On the corner of Nicholson and Bailey Streets was a saddler rented from Jeremiah by a Mr Darcy.

Dwyers’ business was expanding and needed additional space. Darcy was relocated to 93-101 Main Street.

The time of the Austin A30 | A40 | A70 | A90. Demand vastly exceeded supply. The reverse applies today!

1951

Vehicles from Austin Motor Company now shipped from Longbridge, England in Baltic pine crates to Melbourne, loaded on semi-trailers by Bairnsdale’s leading transport company and transported direct to Dwyers for assembly and de-waxing, a crude assembly line!

The Stratford railway bridge caught one driver out – crated cars stacked two high did not fit – drive via Maffra.

1955

Kevin Dwyer began work in spare parts. Austin and Dodge were still our main franchises, but now we ferried the vehicles in convoy by road, a long slow drive at 30mph, six hours from Melbourne to Bairnsdale.

1964 British Motor Corporation Dealers: Austin, Morris,Wolseley, MG, Triumph with Albion trucks.

Remember the Mini? “Some still survive.”

1967

Kevin Dwyer married Kay Jackson from Sale.

1969 Dwyers Garage Leyland Motor

Corporation dealers. Jaguar and Daimler sold well this year. 46-56 Nicholson Street now far too small.

Created a place at 93-101 Main Street – quality used car display.

1971

Nissan Motor Company (Japanese product) came to the fore.

Dwyers Datsun starts at 93-101 Main Street. Datsun 120Y | 180B | 240C – good vehicles, trouble free.

To be continued in next edition...

Truly here for the Long Run, With a vehicle for everyone

Dwyers Toyota 449 Princes Highway, BAIRNSDALE, VIC 3875 Phone: 03 5152 9797 www.dwyers.com.au

LMCT 1702

FICIFOLIA

FESTIVAL DROUIN held on Saturday 14 February 2015

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

FICIFOLIA FESTIVAL DROUIN

highlights of the street pararde

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85 Princes Way, Drouin Vic 3818 Tel: 5625 4383 Like Us On Facebook

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artprojector@gmail.com 0413 672 935

thelifestyle autumn 2015

27

Kara Smith Director

STARRING

ROLE Last October, when Casey Hall walked in to audition for the lead role of Elle Woods in the Latrobe Theatre Company’s 2015 production Legally Blonde, director Kara Smith took a deep breath.

“I remembered Casey from productions a decade ago before she moved away to Melbourne. She was just a kid then, but now was back as a young woman,” Kara recalls.

“You could not find someone who looks more perfectly suited to the part of Elle Woods than Casey. She is blonde, demure, cute and sweet.

I thought to myself, please be able to sing, because we just love the way you look!”

Kara and her casting colleagues were eager to see how far Casey had come in her musical development during her time away from Latrobe Theatre Company. Fortunately, the 26-year-old demonstrated the required talent. Kara and her team had found their Elle.

Fast forward four months and the full cast is busy in rehearsals for this year’s show, which will take centre stage at the Little Theatre at the Latrobe Performing Arts Centre in Traralgon from 7th - 23rd May. “There will be thirteen performances scheduled during that period, comprising eight evening shows and five weekend matinees,” Kara says.

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

Chris West

The musical production of Legally Blonde is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon. The music and lyrics were jointly penned by Neil Benjamin and Laurence O’Keefe and book (script) by Heather Hach.

Originally adapted for the stage in the USA where it moved to Broadway in 2007, Legally Blonde has now been performed around the world.

“There are two versions of the musical production - UK and American,” Kara explains.

“Technically, our books are based on the UK version that played in the West End. Basically, if you saw the stage show that came to Melbourne a couple of years ago, that’s what to expect with our production.”

Legally Blonde will mark American-born Kara’s full directorial debut with the Latrobe Theatre Company.

“I’ve always been on stage, whether it be acting or singing, ever since I was a kid. I even did some musical operas at High School in the States. Since joining LTC twelve years ago, I’ve done everything from chorus roles to lead roles.

I’ve been Assistant Musical Director a couple of times and it seemed like a natural progression to directing,” Kara states.

She also gained additional experience as a Performing Arts teacher at Stockdale Road Primary School in Traralgon in 2014.

“I have all the ingredients to direct, but this is my first time on a ship this big. Having been on the other side as a performer, I know what it’s like to be directed. I am also fortunate to be surrounded by a great team at LTC. My assistant Lawrie Fildes is also my mentor and has been a wonderful sounding board.”

Also providing invaluable assistance to Kara on Legally Blonde are Production Managers Jacki Comber and Ronda Bruerton, Choreographer Lynne Vanderzalm and Musical Directors, Celeste Hardy and Dan McPherson.

Kara’s background also gives her personal insight and knowledge into American schooling life, which features in Legally Blonde. Born and raised near Philadelphia, Kara studied music at university in the United States before coming to Australia.

“Legally Blonde is all about American college life and I’ve actually been there and done that,” she says.

Kara swapped American life for a new home in Gippsland after meeting her future husband Dan, an Australian who was working in the USA with Camp America. The couple have been

happily settled in Traralgon for more than a decade and now have a young family.

“After moving out here, I saw an ad in the paper about an information day for the LTC’s 2003 production of Hello Dolly,” Kara remembers.

“I thought being involved with the company would be a good way to meet new people and I was right. I’ve made some really close friendships through the theatre.”

The Latrobe Theatre Company has been active for over 50 years and has evolved from its original guise as a light opera society in Morwell.

The company continues to be based in Morwell, using a hall at Ronald Reserve, which it has dubbed “The Wings” as its home for rehearsals.

Today’s LTC is amateur theatre done with a professional outlook. The decision by the company’s Committee to choose Legally Blonde as its 2015 production was made as far back as the end of 2013.

“Applying for the rights can be a lengthy process in itself and then you have to put together the production team and assemble a cast,” Kara comments.

Rehearsals commenced late last year and are presently scheduled two nights per week and every second Sunday.

“Everything has been going really well. Legally Blonde is a show that’s heavy on music, with lots of singing. We’ve been moving through the music quite quickly and the choreography started in the New Year,” Kara says.

“The band is being assembled and we are also fortunate to have Casey’s parents John and Wendy Hall contributing their expertise behind the scenes. John is designing our sets and Wendy is our costume coordinator.

“Getting to opening night is the culmination of a lot of hard work and effort by a lot of people,” she emphasises.

Kara has high praise for the cast, which includes members of varying degrees of experience.

where our Legally Blonde shows are being staged.”

She continued to dance until the age of twelve, before auditioning for her first show with the Latrobe Theatre Company.

“Joel Richardson and Ash Kearns who have the prominent roles in the show of Warner Huntington III and Emmett Forest are relatively new to the stage and have been building up to bigger parts like this. Simon Hemming has been a long-time member of the company and he is just perfect for the role of Professor Callahan.

“I got the lead role in Annie in 2000 and stayed on with the company every year through high school,” Casey recalls.

“Kate McCully came into her audition dressed as her character Paulette Buonofuonte. We laughed, we cried, she was just brilliant. Ashlea Vanyai, Abbey Shaw and Shelby Fisher play Elle’s main group of friends and all three of the girls are great singers. Shelby was our Rising Star winner in 2014 after stealing the show last year in Footloose.”

After finishing Year 12, Casey accepted a prestigious invitation to work as a performer at Tokyo Disneyland.

Lead actress Casey Hall says the sense of anticipation has been building amongst the cast and production team.

“Everyone’s pretty excited because it’s getting closer to opening night,” she observes.

Casey is satisfied with how she is adapting to the demands of the role after a considerable break from performing.

“I did a lot of singing when I was younger, but haven’t done much for a long time. I was losing my voice at first in rehearsals, but it’s getting better now,” she says.

“My last show was Cabaret in 2005, where Kara Smith had the lead role. I played one of the Kit Kat girls.”

“I spent seven months there at the end of 2006 and returned again for the same length of time during 2009. At Disneyland, my job was to dress as different characters such as Alice in Wonderland, Tinkerbell, Wendy from Peter Pan and Ariel, the Little Mermaid and wander around meeting visitors and appear in parades.”

Following her first stint in Japan, Casey moved to Melbourne from Traralgon to study for a Bachelor of Arts at Monash University, majoring in Journalism and Communication.

She successfully completed her degree in 2011, after which she taught dancing and found additional work in public relations and modelling.

Casey is comfortable in the spotlight, having been on the stage for most of her life.

Casey then set her sights on teaching and studied for a Graduate Diploma of Education.

This pathway eventually led her back to Gippsland, as she is now the teaching Performing Arts and English at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School in Warragul.

“I performed my first ballet solo as a four-yearold at the Little Theatre in Traralgon, which is

Although Casey did not see the musical version of Legally Blonde when it played in Melbourne,

Scene from Cabaret 2005 thelifestyle autumn 2015

29

STARRING ROLE Casey Hall

Legally Blonde rehearsals she has been able to study the show closely through video screenings online.

of the Pink Tie function to the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” Kara reveals.

“I love the show and actually auditioned for it with another amateur company in Melbourne, but in the end couldn’t take part due to moving down to Warragul.”

Tickets for Legally Blonde will be sold through the Latrobe Performing Arts Centre Box Office.

In the countdown to opening night, Casey and the other cast members will continue to rehearse and spend additional time together in camp at Coonawarra Farm Resort in East Gippsland over the last weekend in March.

As director Kara Smith explains, the camp is designed to help strengthen the bonding between the cast members and to devote time to intensive rehearsal sessions.

“The camp is one of our former traditions that we have brought back this year and we think it will be really worthwhile,” she says.

Another past Latrobe Theatre Company tradition resuming with Legally Blonde is the hosting of a black tie gala opening night event.

But with the colour pink being synonymous with Legally Blonde, it will be a pink tie affair.

“We will be inviting sponsors and special guests on the night and as it coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are linking in with that campaign and donating the proceeds

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

“In the past few years, several shows have sold out, so I recommend buying early,” Kara notes.

“People have missed out on seeing the show because they’ve waited too long.”

Revenue from ticket sales is what keeps the Latrobe Theatre Company in existence.

“Each year, we use the profits from the previous show to fund our next production. Our longevity depends on the success of our shows,” Kara states.

“Our last few shows, including Footloose last year, have made enough money to sustain major musicals.”

Not only does the company have to pay for sets and costumes, the rights fees it is charged for major shows can be astronomical, taking away a large slice of the proceeds. Occasionally it receives Local Government grants which are always put to good use.

“We are in the process of installing mirrors in our main hall at The Wings to help with dance

training which will be a great asset for us. A couple of years ago, we also used a grant to purchase some lighting equipment,” Kara adds.

Whilst financial grants are always appreciated, the company is essentially reliant on Gippsland’s theatre-going public to continue to support its shows each year.

“We provide affordable theatre and the community helps us by coming to see our performances,” Kara says.

Having seen the show taking shape under her direction over recent months, Kara is confident that people of all ages will enjoy Legally Blonde.

“It is a story of self awareness and growth and I think everyone can relate to that somehow,” she comments.

“The show is light and very funny. There’s lots of good songs and I’m sure everyone will find it entertaining from start to finish.”

Images supplied by Latrobe Theatre Company

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54 Tyers Street, STRATFORD, Victoria (03) 5145 6816 thelifestyle autumn 2015

31

Wild Dog WINERY

Amber Rhodes

his new wife, the opportunity was there for him to become involved in the business. Together they upgraded the vineyard, re-wired and trellised the vines, employed Folkert Janssen, their full time wine maker, and set about turning the place around.

Nestled in the hills behind Warragul sits the Wild Dog Winery, a boutique vineyard, which produces cool climate wines of exceptional character, as well as an award winning restaurant that features local produce. With a location that is conveniently situated only an hour east of Melbourne, Wild Dog Winery is fast becoming a tourism destination in its own right.

The winery was established in 1982 by John and Helen Farrington, who originally were dairy farmers, but changed ownership 11 years ago when it was bought by Gary and Judy Surman.

Not their first experience with wine, Gary and Judy first owned Parnassus at Camp Hill, where they planted vines in 1998, having only two varieties, a Chardonnay and a Pinot Noir.

At their first Gippsland Wine Show they scored a prize for the best sparkling wine, which gave them faith in growing in the region.

Their interest was sparked, and with the Farrington's decision to sell, saw them purchasing the 110 acres just south of Warragul.

A lot different to what you see today, the winery consisted of only a cellar door, with the vines fenced off, and no restaurant. There were 8 or 9 varieties of grapes there at the time, and with their son Luke wanting to return from Japan with

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

grove of over 600 trees that produce virgin oil and processed olives. Since taking ownership they have also planted additional varieties of vines, as well as grafting new ones.

The restaurant came later, with an attempt to open it on Black Saturday 6 years ago. They have also extended the storage shed out the back, plus another working area on the other side. They took fences down, as well as generally improved the property, and now boast wetlands walking trails and viewing platforms, a fern gully board walk, an established bush tucker and vegetable garden, as well as a mature olive “We have a total of 11 different varieties of vines here, 5 red and 6 white, with the intention that we produce a wide range of wines so that we can sell them at the cellar door, and showcase them in the restaurant,” said Gary. “We also sell them within Gippsland and the metropolitan area.”

With 30 acres of vines, comprising of 4000 plants, they produce on average up to 60,000 bottles a year, something that is done entirely on the property. They are, in fact, the only winery in Gippsland where they do the whole process on site; grow, produce and bottle their wine.

Gary's background had little to do with wine, working as a civil engineer for local government for a number of years, before setting up his own consultancy. After running Parnassus, which they operated as a guest house, Gary's taste for the industry was solidified.

“I've always been passionate about wine and food”, he said. “Parnassus was operating as

a guest house, although we didn't buy it for that reason, it was just a great place to live.”

Eventually, however, they started up again, with people wanting to have meals and stay there. It was a natural progression to the development of the Wild Dog Winery, where Gary has taken his knowledge from his earlier time in the wine industry and applied it to the operation today.

“One of the lessons I've learned is that anyone can make wine, but if you want to make wine commercially you need someone who knows what they're doing. You have to be very good at chemistry and have a taste for wines.”

This is where Folkert Janssen steps in, employed full time, to create that delicate balance between nature and science, that is the corner stone of their award winning winery.

The 2014 Gippsland Wine Show saw them take home the trophy for the most successful exhibitor, which means they demonstrated they are producing wines of a high quality across the entire range.

The restaurant has become a successful and well recognised feature of Gippsland since opening in 2009. Head chef, Ed McDowell, has developed a modern Australian menu that changes with the seasons, and is supported by local produce. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, they are naturally busiest on the weekends, with September through to May seeing nearly every Saturday booked up with weddings, and other events also take place throughout the year.

Casey Lutvey is the restaurant manager, but also handles all the events, something that has become a big feature of the winery. With weddings throughout the warmer months, winter has been dedicated to their dinner and shows, where they have music and tribute shows, as well as 'Shakespeare in the Vines'.

This year will also see their first ever 'Autumn Family Festival', which will be an outdoor music event with market stalls and activities for children.

They are very relaxed, with the public being able to wander freely about the property, making use of the four walking tracks, two leading to board walks and the others to the viewing platforms overlooking the property. The generous deck seats 70, and a fine day will see people sitting out there, dogs at their feet, and kids having a kick of the ball around the vineyard. They can also comfortably seat 100 inside, and as well as weddings, accommodate all types of functions.

There is also a country style pub, with outdoor dining facilities, appropriately named “The Dog House”, and the cellar door is always open for tastings.

Future growth could see the vineyard expand, with only 30 acres planted with vines there is certainly the room.

“There's plenty of space for future planning, and good slopes for planting. Normally the northern facing slopes are the best, but you've got to weigh up all the costs involved and the markets, and whether you want to get into exporting,” said Gary. “What we'd like to do here next is provide accommodation to fit in with the restaurant.”

With that in mind, and taking in the splendid views across the vineyard, it is something you know will only add to the success of the Wild Dog Winery, which is already putting the region on the map.

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

thelifestyle autumn 2015

33

TARAGO RIVER CHEESE Amber Rhodes

A stunning view across the Tarago Reservoir, framed closely by the mountains of the Bunyip State Park, is not a bad outlook for the staff of the Tarago River Cheese Company, an on-farm cheese factory located just north of the small township of Neerim South. Laurie Jensen and David Johnson grew up on neighbouring dairy farms, and with a history going back to before they were born, now run the business together.

It was their parents, who in 1982, originally set up the business. After David's parents, Robert and Lyn, visited other on-farm cheese companies in other countries, it made sense to launch their own enterprise with Alwyn and Hilda Jensen.

Robert became particularly interested in cheese making, while Laurie had started doing it as a hobby while living in Melbourne in 1982. A three year course in dairy technology in Werribee also saw Laurie train in the art of cheese making, while at the same time he was working at the Drouin Butter Factory.

In 1987 Laurie won a Churchill Scholarship and travelled overseas to Europe and the UK, where he had the opportunity to study. Since then he has been overseas a further three times, bringing back with him the expertise

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

that has gone on to help create a successful on-farm operation.

With 35 staff on board, they are the oldest soft specialist cheese maker in Australia. They are also the largest of the small on-farm makers.

They use all their own milk, with the dairy located directly behind the factory, although they do buy some cream, as more is needed than they can produce.

Their range includes a selection of deeply flavoured, complex and lovingly crafted cheeses, such as Jensen's Red (named after Laurie), Gippsland Blue, Shadows of Blue and Blue Orchid. Their cheese is sold all over Australia, with a public demand that remains fairly steady throughout the year, although the two weeks before Christmas sees a sharp increase in sales. They have designed their business so the cheeses mature from 4 to 16 weeks, so they can balance off their production with the various different ages of the cheeses, and have the right amount ready during peak times.

For Laurie it is his passion. “I love it to bits,” he said. “The best thing is to see the customers saying 'that's pretty good'. It keeps us going and we have to work hard for that. You can

make pretty basic cheese, but it takes more work to add in more flavours, to work with more bacteria and more cultures. There's more time taken, and different seasonal flavours that you get in our cheeses. It's working with all those things and getting compliments back from the customers.”

For Laurie and David it is important that they give their customers what they want. As 99% of cheese is milk, it is difficult to maintain consistency. “If the milk varies then the cheese is going to vary, unless there are things you can do to bring it back to the common framework of your product. It is never always going to be the same, but people have an expectation that it is going to be a particular way.The art of the cheese making is trying to get that all re-worked on a monthly basis to make sure you are meeting the customers’ expectations.

What they want is flavour and texture. They do vary but it is keeping it consistent with the identity of the product; that is where all the work is.”

The cultures they use are also vital to the process, with theirs coming from seven different countries, including Denmark, Germany, France, Italy and New Zealand, as well as using some from Australia.

David Johnson sitting in a crop of chichory

“They've all got minds of their own. As the milk changes their growth will vary and the flavours they develop will vary. Same culture, different flavours, different milk, different season. It's really understanding all of that. Without the cultures there's nothing. Whilst they're very tiny additions in the composition of the cheese they are massive in terms of the flavour and the texture. It's learning and understanding all that which is the issue.”

David spends most of his time behind the scenes, with the important job of running the farm, as well as handling compliance and dealing with customers. With formal training in Farm Management, he found it was a great education to opening his eyes to different styles of farming, something he still applies to the operation today.

The 100 hectares is split into about 28 paddocks, where they run a 21 to 60 day rotation, depending on the time of year and how much grass they have. Silage is cut in November to fill out the feed gaps and they also run a cropping program. Calving twice a year, to even out the milk flow to supply the factory, they run a mixed herd of 200 cows.

They have one full time employee and three part time staff members working on the farm, which David says is probably more than most dairies, but they want to ensure that the cows and pastures are well looked after to make sure the milk quality is just right. They grow about 15 hectares of crops each season, which helps influence the quality of the milk, and they are pretty much self-sufficient when it comes to fertiliser, as the effluent from the

dairy and factory is irrigated back on to all the paddocks.

David's main focus is healthy and happy cows, whose calm and respectful treatment in the dairy is obvious by David's ability to pat them in the paddock. “Our view is if we treat them nicely they'll treat us nicely,” said David.

“We're as gentle as we can be. We want a nice calm herd of cows.”

They are always fed a high level of grain and are currently benefiting from a very good season.

“As far as grass goes, it's sensational,” said David, whose chicory crop is also flourishing.

Today Laurie doesn't make a lot of cheese, but he is still kept busy out on the plant, even with thirty-five staff, decision-making is an important part of his role. With each step of the production being managed on the property, David and Laurie, along with the family company that was born more than 30 years ago, will go on to be a defining tradition in cheese making.

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

thelifestyle autumn 2015

35

Tarago River Cheese Company and Tarago River Farms, supplying specialty farm house cheese to Gippsland for over 30 years.

The Jensen and Johnson families in partnership, and both with three generations of dairy farming in Gippsland, bring a unique style of farming / cheese making to this fertile region. Ideally situated on rich pasture in North West Gippsland, the six varieties of soft specialty cheese develop seasonal and regional character, rare these days in a mass-produced world.

Our business is our stockists and loyal customers who, through the ups and downs of seasonal vagaries, support our enterprise, its 30 employees, and all the various stakeholders that make up the Tarago River Farm Cheese enterprise. To all of you – Thankyou, Laurie Jensen and David Johnson.

Ta r a g o R i v e r C h e e s e C o m pa n y S t o c k i s t s

Wandin North

Orbost

Lilydale

Bairnsdale

Sassafras Berwick Beaconsfield Pakenham Garfield Mornington

Rosedale

Warragul

Sale

Yarragon Trafalgar Morwell

Rosebud Blairgowrie Red Hill Cape Schanck

Cowes Kilkunda Inverloch

Foster

STOCKISTS

BEACONSFIELD The Gourmet Butcher BERWICK Village Butcher FOSTER Aherns Fruit GARFIELD Country Style Meats INVERLOCH Inverloch Supermarket Inverloch Quality Meats KILCUNDA Kilcunda General Store MORWELL Marino’s Deli PAKENHAM Pakenham Fruit Plaza NEERIM SOUTH Neerim South Food Works RED HILL Cellar & Pantry SALE Lazzaros Brothers Padula’s Europa Deli The Hunting Ground TRAFALGAR Trafalgar IGA YARRAGON Gippsland Food and Wine WANDIN NORTH Yarra Valley Deli & Wine Bar

Mallacoota

Stratford

Gippsland is probably one of the most diverse and beautiful regions in our island nation. My great grandfather, Berand Jensen with his brother Soren settled in Far East Gippsland in the late 1880’s.

They were dairy farmers and farm cheese makers from Denmark, as many immigrants were. David’s grandfather, Les Johnson (also with Danish heritage) settled in Neerim South where the Jensen and Johnson families farmed adjoining farms for 50 years.

OTHER STOCKISTS

BAIRNSDALE SPECIALITY FOODS Russell from Bairnsdale Speciality Foods distributes between Rosedale & Orbost weekly. On board Russell has an array of Cheese, Smallgoods and other goodies and has the ability to Transport or Courier as far up the coast as Mallacoota.

EASTWOOD BAIRNSDALE SPECIALITY FOODS DISTRIBUTOR Contact: Russell Mobile: 0408 354 059 Email: beflex1@bigpond.com EAST GIPPSLAND STOCKISTS BAIRNSDALE Tasters Wine & Food Yellow Belly Deli ORBOST Orbost King Food STRATFORD Wa - De - Lock

BERWICK The Berwick Deli BLAIRGOWRIE Blairgowrie IGA CAPE SCHANCK RACV – Cape Schanck COLDSTREAM Helenshill Estate MORNINGTON Houghton’s Fine Foods Tully’s Mornington ROSEBUD La Casa Nostra Continental Deli SASSAFRAS Cream of Sassafras SORRENTO Sciclunas Sorrento WARRAGUL Gaffney’s Fruit Shop Lean & Green The Grange Café & Deli

2236 Main Neerim Road Neerim South VIC 3831 03 5628 1569 www.taragocheese.com

C &M Red Hat Chocolate & Coffee

An eclectic mix of new and preloved treasures.

Beautiful things at affordable prices.

We provide boxed chocolates for special occasions, takeaway coffee, hot chocolate and tea. All of our chocolates are sourced from local chocolatiers throughout Victoria, and will delight and tempt any palate.

Thursday – Friday 10AM – 4PM | Saturday 10AM – 12 NOON 26 Main Street, BUNYIP 3815

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm 24 Main Street, BUNYIP, VIC 3815 03 5629 6284

Opening Hours Tuesday – Friday: 6.30am – 4pm | Breakfast Served from 8am | Saturday: 8am – 3pm

facebook.com/biddy.marthas

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

8 Main Street BUNYIP 3815 (opposite Butcher Shop Hotel) ph 0408 724 486

Hours Tuesday - Sunday 12 noon to late Lunch 12 noon to 2.00pm Dinner 6.00pm to 8.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday and 6.00pm to 8.30pm Friday and Saturday

GOURMET PIZZAS from the Wood Fire Oven available Friday - Saturday 6.00pm to 9.00pm Sunday 2.00pm to 8.00pm

LIVE MUSIC For upcoming events visit our facebook page

visit our facebook page

14 Main Street, Bunyip, Vic 3815 Tel: 5629 5292

Amber Rhodes An intelligent approach to his business, and his natural creative ability, are just two things that will ensure nothing but success for Sam Twite, a dedicated and talented stone artisan based in Mirboo North.

He has found that stone work is increasingly gaining in popularity as people are moving away from factory made products. “People are realising that the cost evens out when comparing a man-made product with real stone. You get a panel of manufactured stone that has things like bonding agents already in it, and has been put together by a person or machine in a factory, whereas the alternative is spending the money on the labour using a cheaper product like real stone, and getting a one of a kind feature that no one else has” explains Sam.

Sam was originally studying music at TAFE, majoring in guitar, when he began running out of money and found he needed to get a job.

With his father working as a gardener and horticulture teacher, he was already familiar with the industry. “I've always been creatively minded,” said Sam, “So I thought I would get into something where I could be creative, as well as earn a living and work outdoors.”

The price of the stone can vary quite dramatically, with these prices determined by the type, where it originates from and transport costs.

Currently he is using a Mount Angus Sandstone

While initially looking at landscaping, it was really by chance that he got into stone masonry.

After a period of work experience, he went on to apply for an apprenticeship with Paul Bracken, a landscaper and stone mason from the Leongatha area.

“I started developing a real passion for it over the years, and ever since I've just got more and more keen on it.” After nearly 10 years of working for Paul, it was only 8 months ago that Sam took the plunge and went out on his own.

He had been doing his own work for roughly 2 years already, taking time off work, as well as working weekends, to save the money to start his own business. As Sam recalls, “It's been a bit of a mission.”

He specialises in ‘dry stone’ work, a style that involves natural stones being shaped and very tightly fitted together in a random style, so you are unable to see any of the mortar. “I also do

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actual dry stack, which has no mortar, you just stack stone on stone. It's a more traditional method, which relies on the stone’s mass and natural stability for structural integrity” said Sam. “ I like the fact that people can see how much work and effort has been put into getting the joins really tight, rather than relying on mortar to take up the slack in between the stones” While the majority of Sam’s work is constructing feature and retaining walls, he also does stone archways, random paving, garden edging and driveway entries, as well as offering a range of styles in which to lay the stone.

from Maffra, a stone that is a premium grade natural stone, sorted by hand as it comes out of the quarry to whatever colour, shape or size requirements a client may have. With sandstone being sedimentary, having formed over millions of years by sand washing down over it, it sets in layers and tends to come out in flat pieces, which is then simply dug out and split.

Sam works with a variety of different types of stone, each with their own personalities and idiosyncrasies.

Knox's Quarry stone from Leongatha is a volcanic basalt, a stone that is blasted out by explosives, so it comes out in irregular shapes, making it harder to work with and tightly piece together, but it has a beautiful blue colour and old world character when applied the correct way. He has also used Bairnsdale Granite, Bruthen Limestone, as well as West Australian Limestone, and a broad range of stone paving products both local and imported.

Probably his favourite product to work with at the moment is the stone he's currently using, the Mount Angus Sandstone. “For this type of work it's easy to use because you can split it.

If you've got a certain amount of space to work in, and the rock is too big, you can often just split it down since it's a layered sedimentary stone with fault lines through it. You can split it down with a bolster and get two stones out of one. It's just easier. With other types of stone, like granite, you've got to score lines through it with a diamond wheel and split the chunks off.

Basalt is really hard because it's unpredictable, so it's probably the hardest to use.”

In terms of what is most popular with clients he finds that it usually is determined by their budget and personality. “Some people prefer straight lines and squares, whereas others prefer a more organic and flowing style.”

In the future Sam is looking to expand, hoping one day to take on an apprentice. “I definitely want to expand, once I'm sure that the work is going to keep coming in, and hopefully get a whole operation happening. For the moment I like having full control over the quality of the work while I'm building it up, the quality is going to be what gets people in.”

For the moment he is busy, with 6 months work ahead of him, he is happy that it is going well, although he is always conscious of having work stacked up in case something falls through.

However Sam is always up for a challenge, and his good business sense makes sure that there is always work to go on with.

For clients, Sam is with them every step of the way, starting with a casual meeting talking through what it is they wish to have done. He will then go through the whole process, from start to finish, discussing design, costing and suggesting what products would be right for the job. He will talk about what is the best option to make the area work, including colours and styles.

It is this love of a challenge that drives Sam every day. By bringing stone into the spotlight Sam wants to challenge himself, and also do things that people haven't seen.

“Every job challenges me in a new way,” said Sam, which is something he thoroughly enjoys. It is these creative challenges that he is looking for, to create things that even he hasn't imagined possible. www.facebook/samtwitestoneworks.com Photographs by Amber Rhodes

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Stone Artisan

ALL NEW RAV4 IT’S HERE

The All new RAV4 is here and it’s more powerful, sporty and stylish than ever before. Available in a gutsy 2.5L petrol, 2.2L Turbo-diesel or 2.0L petrol (GX and GXL models only). It’s a brand new driving experience for the go-getter in you. Completely reinvented with dynamic exterior design, enhanced safety and a host of features for versatility, it’s ready for any adventure.

Visit us today for further details. *Vehicles shown with optional accessories

Traralgon Toyota Lot 1 Princes Highway Traralgon (03) 51 757777 traralgontoyota.com.au LMCT 11191

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 44

thelifestyle autumn 2015

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

thelifestyle autumn 2015

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The Cape Tavern is a 70 seat Bistro and Bar located in the heart of Cape Paterson, just a short drive from both Wonthaggi and Inverloch. The Cape Tavern has an attached bottleshop, which specialises in wine from some of the local wineries.

We also hold regular Wine Dinners, which are very popular, featuring local and interstate wineries. Our bar has a great selection of boutique beers on tap including White Rabbit, James Squire Pale Ale, Hop Thief and Coopers Pale Ale.

Regular events include Music on a Saturday night and a Sunday afternoon using local bands and musicians from further afield, check the Facebook page for latest news and events.

Our Menu has a good selection of pub style food with changing specials on a regular basis providing customers with a varied choice of menu.

AUTUMN HOURS FOR THE BISTRO Lunch Thursday - Sunday 12 - 2pm Dinner Wednesday - Sunday 6 - 8pm Autumn hours for the Bar Monday - Tuesday open 3pm Wednesday - Sunday open 11am

visit our facebook page

Market Place Surf Beach Rd CAPE PATERSON, VIC 3995 Ph: (03) 5674 8122 w w w.th ec a p eta ver n .co m

PHILLIP ISLAND’S Every year thousands of whales make their journey from the feeding grounds of Antarctica, to the warmer waters of Australia. Their ultimate destination is the warm breeding grounds off the Queensland Coast, where a large tourism industry has blossomed around this amazing whale-watching experience.

But before they reach Queensland waters, these whales journey through southern Australia and many thousands of these majestic animals swim straight past the Gippsland coast.

Each year, more and more avid whale watchers wait at local coastal vantage points to enjoy many hours searching for and spotting both the humpback and southern right whales.

The whale watching season begins in Gippsland during June and July, when the majority of sightings are of humpback whales. As the season progresses the southern right whales then begin to appear, mostly from August onwards. The luckiest whale watchers will also see orcas, or killer whales, which often travel in pods to hunt large fish and smaller marine mammals such as seals.

For your best chance for a thrilling up-close and personal whale encounter on the Gippsland coast, a professional boat tour is a must.

Wildlife Coast Cruises has operated catamaran cruises around the Phillip Island and Wilson’s

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Promontory Coast for twenty-one years, and has recently introduced a “Winter Whale Cruise” into their schedule.

Their four hour “Winter Whale Cruise” is a spectacular cruise in itself, taking in a full circumnavigation of the breathtaking coastline of Phillip Island. The dark basalt of Pyramid Rock, towering pink granite cliffs of Cape Woolamai and numerous sandy beaches are a photographer’s delight. A very close view of thousands of cheeky Australian fur seals at Seal

Rocks west of Phillip Island, along with regular sightings of dolphins, penguins and other seabirds, make for an amazing journey. During the cruise you are also treated to morning tea and a generously catered lunch, so your hunger will certainly be satisfied too.

Without doubt however, the highlight of the cruise is a humbling encounter with a massive

humpback or southern right whale. “It’s fantastic to see the people’s reaction every time we spot one,” remarked Captain and boat owner, John Dickie. “Even a big gruff bloke can start grinning and laughing like a child when a whale breaches near the boat!”

John is also pleased to report that the general trend in the migrating southern whale populations is that of growth. “Whale researchers have reported annual population growth of ten to fifteen percent over the last few years,” John said. “And we agree with their stats - we are seeing more and more whales each year on our Winter Whale Cruises, and we logged sixty-two separate sightings last season.”

The public were alerted to the time and position of all sixty-two whale sightings last season, via the “SMS Whale Hotline” which Wildlife Coast Cruises introduced last year. This is a service that the company has offered free of charge to all members of the public, and notifies registered users of whale sightings as they happen in real time. When each alert is posted, those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time simply travel to a coastal vantage point and spot the whale! If you would like to register for free whale alerts during the upcoming season, simply text “JOIN” to 0487 745 066. For even more information on these

WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES Cowes Jetty 11-13 The Esplanade, Cowes PHILLIP ISLAND 3922 1300 763 739 www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

WINTER WHALES local sightings, more comprehensive statistics are posted on an Interactive Whale Map, which is available on the company’s website www. wildlifecoastcruises.com.au.

The Winter Whale Cruises depart every Saturday and Sunday morning from Cowes Jetty, during the months of June, July and August. John also plans to operate extra mid-week trips, which will vary in accordance with the best weather conditions each week. Call their office or visit their website which always posts a daily update of weather conditions and upcoming cruises.

In addition to spotting winter whales, Wildlife Coast Cruises has a wide variety of other cruises on its schedule, including daily Seal Watching Cruises, weekly Lunch Cruises and Twilight Bay Cruises, fortnightly Mornington Peninsula Market cruises, and even magical day cruises around Wilson’s Promontory. Visit their website or call the crew for a chat.

Photographs supplied

by Wildlife Coast Cruises

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RECIPE th e b e a n d o ld f a s h io n e d s c o n e This recipe makes 7-8 light fluffy scones just like your grandmother or mother made. These will bring back those warm fuzzy feelings and put a smile on your dial.

INGREDIENTS EQUIPMENT 3 cups self-raising flour large mixing bowl 50gm salted butter sieve 1 1/2 cups milk measuring jug pinch of salt butter knife 7-8cm pastr y cutter HOW TO

Sift the flour You know you are done when the dough is Add the butter in small nobs (room temperature smooth and soft. Pat it flat to a 2cm thickness, butter is quicker and easier on your fingers). cut using a 7-8cm pastry cutter or a knife if you don't have cutters. (Any shape you want Rub in the butter using your finger tips until it will work). looks like the texture of sand from the finest sandy beach in Gippsland. (This will take a Any leftovers of the dough can be re-worked, good 5 minutes or until your fingers are tired). patted out and cut again. (Don't waste any).

Make a well in the middle, pour in the milk, then mix using a bread knife, stir till it is all combined. (If it looks very wet that's a good thing).

Turn it out onto a well-floured bench, then give a generous dusting of flour on top.Gently knead the dough by folding it back onto itself while rotating 45 degrees every fold. (Dusting with flour as you go, if it gets sticky).

Place the scones onto a floured tray, keeping the scones close together but not touching.

Lightly dust with flour, then put the scones into a 180 degree oven for 20-30 min. (Until lightly golden brown on top).)

After they cool slightly, eat with your favorite toppings. Mine is still homemade jam and whipped cream. I'm getting those warm fuzzies thinking about them now.

Graeme Heenan

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micro coffee roastery

+

eatery

+

fudge store

BEANd CAFÉ is a handcrafted micro coffee roaster + eater y with BEANd produce store.

BEANd specialized breakfast, lunch, sweets, coffee and tea.

BEANd use the freshest local produce to create awesome food.

BEANd source the best green coffee be ans from around the globe + roast them with care + love.

BEANd roast small batches of coffee daily, so we can deliver the freshest coffee in Gippsland.

Come tr y our store made FAB Fudge with a selection to tantalize your senses.

The brunch menu goes all day to satis fy your breakfast, morning, lunch + afternoon tea needs.

BEANd coffee – fudge + store made preser ves are perfect to eat in, take home or give as a gift.

OPEN 7AM – 4 PM 6 DAYS (CLOSED WEDNESDAY) s pe c ia liz e d c o f f e e + a ll d ay b reakfast + lu n ch + sweets an d tea S ho p 4 , 1 5 7 Ma rin e Parad e San Remo V IC 3925 p h 04 0 7 7 1 7 5 8 8 w b ht t p: //b ean d .com.au fb faceb ook.com/b ean d coffee

David Fusinato

the paint place Amber Rhodes

The Paint Place has been making a name for itself now for 14 years, with its original store opening in Wonthaggi, followed 4 years later by the shop in Cowes, and more recently stores opening in Traralgon and then Leongatha.

For David Fusinato and Rob Geyer the business was a natural progression, with both their backgrounds giving them a solid base for success.

David began his career as a painter when he was 17, with a job during the school holidays helping to paint the Neerim South High School.

He was due to start back at school but was offered an apprenticeship, a start that saw him painting right up until 10 years ago. Eventually he went out on his own, starting D & G Fusinato Painting with his brother, and together they have had 9 apprentices go through their business over a period of 20 years, all of whom are still painting. It wasn't until a bad back helped him make the decision to stop painting, that he decided to sell paint instead.

Starting out at Wonthaggi, David found that they were delivering so much paint to Cowes, that it became obvious that the demand was there to open a second store. He made the move, handing the Wonthaggi store over to Rob, and since then has been living on the island. “I've lived on the island 10 years,” said David, “And I still feel like I'm on holiday!”

Rob has been with David since the start, working in the Wonthaggi store when it first opened. Starting out as a carpenter and joiner,

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the best workers in all our shops. We pride ourselves on our workers. We get praise for our employees everyday.”

David is also quite protective of their reputation, priding themselves on customer service.

Knowing the full value of good customer service he states that “we live and breathe our shops and our business.”

he then worked in hardware for a decade, before going out tiling for about 4 years, until the opportunity came to apply for the job at The Paint Place. As his knees were killing him from doing the tiling he thought, “it was time to mix some paint.” He mainly works out of Wonthaggi but does get to the other stores quite regularly, which he really enjoys. For David, who found painting rewarding, said that working in the shop is fun. With 17 staff working across all the stores, he explains that dealing with paint is a constant learning curve.

“I'm still learning,” he explained, “Every month there is a new product. As far as training staff, it's hard, but being in a shop it makes it easier as they can stand beside you. If they're going to be a good worker they will pick it up pretty quickly. We've been lucky, we've got some of

“You have to change people's habits to go to a specialist paint shop to buy paint. Once you change those habits price is not an issue. The biggest thing with paint is advice. Getting the right advice because painting now has became a 10 year guarantee, it's an investment. You get the right advice and that investment will last you 12 years.”

Rob Geyer

They are the biggest seller of Haymes decking products in Australia, selling 10,000 litres alone of decking sealer last year, something reflective of the fact that the majority of people in Cowes has a deck. There is also a big turnover of homes on Phillip Island, particularly with the holiday houses, so they sell a lot of paint. With the Haymes decking products he was actually reformulating their colour himself, which a representative from the company saw him do whilst visiting the store.

“I was changing the colour from an orange to a brown every time someone bought one and Haymes has since reformulated the whole product, which is their biggest seller, to my formulation.”

As well as Haymes, which is an Australian brand, they also sell Wattle, New Look, which is their label, and Colour Trends. They have marine paints and rust proofing, Traralgon will sell a lot of industrial paint, and Wonthaggi also stocks Taubmans.

For David his favourite brand is easily Haymes, where he finds that so many of the customers who he advises to use the product always come back and say it's the best they have ever used. “It goes on easily, lasts well, both painters and customers praise it, it washes better and the surface is second to none.” He also finds that when he rings the company he will usually speak to someone high up in the chain of command, an indication that they really care about their product.

The business is always keen to put back into the community, sponsoring many sporting clubs, from the local football and cricket teams, the bowls and the golf clubs, and they donate a lot to charities. They also have their own corporate bowls team at Cowes, a regular Thursday night event, which all the staff really look forward to playing.

Rob, who keeps the show running on the mainland, loves everything about the job. “I really enjoy dealing with the public, you meet some nice people when you're out and about.”

David is quite passionate when he states how much he enjoys the business. “I love dealing with customers. The best part is when a customer comes in with a problem and we fix it. The self-satisfaction of being able to help somebody out. It's about being able to close the doors and being happy about my day, and being able to go fishing!”

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

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paint place

group of stores

the paint specialists

Cowes

Wonthaggi

215 Settlement Road, Cowes Vic 3922 Tel: 5952 2522 Email: cowes@paintplace.com.au Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm

Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm

Sunday 9.00am to 1.00pm Manager: David Fusinato

5-7 Korumburra Road, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 5522 Email: wonthaggi@paintplace.com.au Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm

Saturday 8.30am to 1.00pm

Sunday 10.00am to 12.00pm Manager: Rob Geyer

Traralgon

Leongatha

81 Argyle Street, Traralgon Vic 3844 Tel: 5176 1221 Email: traralgon@paintplace.com.au Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm

Saturday 9.00am to 1.00pm

Sunday Closed Manager: Kevin Vivian

52 Bair Street, Leongatha Vic 3953 Tel: 5662 2941 Email: leongatha@paintplace.com.au Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm

Saturday 9.00am to 12.00pm

Sunday Closed Manager: Luke Watson

Offering great displays and service, expert advice and competitive prices, SPACE FLOORING & INTERIORS is an inspiring store for home builders and renovators.

Jill McClen is a fully qualified experienced Interior Designer who will happily assist clients with all their product, finishes and colour selections for the entire home.

Make choosing your floor coverings and interiors a simple and enjoyable experience.

Visit SPACE FLOORING & INTERIORS where great value and service are what every customer will receive!       

Carpets Timber Flooring Porcelain and Stone Vinyls and Laminates Roller and Roman Blinds Rug Collection Overlocking Service

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Free measure and quotes Expert Advice Guaranteed installations Home Visits Jill McClen Interior Design Domestic and Commercial projects undertaken

...products for your space, your needs and your style!

Trading Hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm | Saturday 9am - 12pm 41A Smith St Warragul (Formerly Carpet Country Warragul) Ph: 5622 3933 | Fax 5622 3944 | Email: info@warragulspaceflooring.com.au 55

thelifestyle summer 2013-14

Warragul Sporting & Social Club

Downtowner

OPEN 7 DAYS BISTRO • BAR • FUNCTIONS

MONDAY NIGHT

TUESDAY NIGHT

$14.50 Schnitzel Night $17.00 Steak Night Variety of toppings to choose from 300gm MSA Scotch Fillet Steak with your choice of sauce

Downtowner Bistro

Open 7 days a week for lunch 12 - 2pm & Dinner 6 - 9pm Downtowner & Light Lunch menus also available daily Selection of Sandwiches, Wraps, Muffins & Slices available daily 55 Victoria Street Warragul ph 5623 1520

Follow us on facebook

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 and Men’s Night (no appointment needed) 18 Bailey St Bairnsdale Vic 3875 03 5152 4872 Find us on Facebook and Instagram

Kasama Décor Unique Gifts & Home Décor

Kasama Décor Unique Gifts & Home Décor 3/31 The Esplanade Paynesville Vic 3880

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thelifestyle autumn 2015

Phone: 03 5156 1209

Monday to Friday: 10.30am - 4.30pm | Saturday 10.00am - 2.00pm Sunday 11.00am - 3.00pm | Or by appointment (The store is closed every Tuesday.) See you soon, Sue Clementson

WARRAGUL DOWNTOWNER CUP EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2015 LOGAN PARK, WARRAGUL

WARRAGUL HARNESS RACING FASHIONS ON THE FIELD PRIZES FOR BEST DRESSED LADIES & GENTS ENTRIES: BAYVIEW ON EDEN ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE JUNIOR ENTRIES: TICKETS TO PENINSULA CINEMAS AND EB GAMES VOUCHERS

$1,000 ON COURSE ‘SELFIE’

COMPETITION LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EASTER EGGS GIVEAWAY

FULL CATERING AND TAB FACILITIES

KOKO THE CLOWN

GATES OPEN 12.00 NOON FREE KIDS ACTIVITIES Logan Park, Howitt St, Warragul [03] 5622 2008 warragul@hrv.org.au

See us on

Catering for your events WEDDINGS | FUNCTIONS | CONFERENCES GUEST HOUSE STAY TWO NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE (Breakfast not included)

Hours

Thursday – Sunday Lunch 12.00pm – Late Thursday – Saturday Dinner 6.00pm – Late (Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve)

Open all Weekend for Coffee and Cake, Wine and Cheese and Tastings SUNDAY – ALL DAY BRUNCH Bookings preferred for the Restaurant

180 Lardners Track, DROUIN EAST, Victoria 3818 Phone: (03) 5626 8522

Like us on

generations BREEDING SUCCESS Amber Rhodes

There is something comforting about a family having been in a district for generations. It drums up visions of honest hard work, good times, love, growth and tradition. This ongoing tradition is something that Michael Hulls has been carrying forward with the continuing success of Willowie, his beef cattle property located at Leongatha South.

A fifth generation farmer, Michael is running approximately 500 Angus cows across a total of around 1600 acres, including the property at Leongatha South, a lease block at Inverloch, another smaller block at Berrys Creek and at the farms owned by his parents and his grandparents, which are just outside of Leongatha.

Originally dairy farmers, the first beef cattle were introduced by Michael's grandparents, Jack and Norma, at the home farm, Narra Tingha, a property that has been in the family for 60 years. Although they gave up the running of things around 10 years ago, Jack, who is 93, and Norma, in her late 80s, are still thriving.

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They milked about 75 cows for 40 years, until they not only tired of it, but the factory wasn't interested in purchasing their milk, as they were milking less than 200 cows. They got onto an Angus herd in Euroa, and starting with just 40 cows, they gradually made the switch to beef.

“It was the best thing we ever did. Everything was ours and we just got sick of it,” said Jack.

“Anyway, I wanted to go fishing and shooting!”

Norma, who felt a bit lost without the milking to start with, continued to keep waking early.

“The button was pressed (to start the milking machine) when the six o'clock whistle blew on the train as it was pulling out of the station every morning. It was hard to get out of the habit.”

Today Michael is running a tight operation, with cattle numbers building since their start 36 years ago. Their success with their breeding is making waves across the district. August last year saw them having to reduce numbers due to the loss of some land, but the 80 plus weaner steers they sold ended up topping the

market at $3 a kilo, a figure that went on to top the market for all of Australia for that particular week.

“We're to a stage now that our cattle are pretty highly sort after with certain buyers now to grow on. We don't go to market with one or two bidding on it any more. There's half a dozen to a dozen,” said Michael.

They sell mainly to growers, who buy them at 6, 12 or 18 months of age, depending on what market they are trying to fulfil. For about the last 5 years the trend has seen a lot of local buyers, whereas before cattle were heading over the border.

The operation has their own nucleus herd, where they keep their own bulls. There are 35 to 40 cows with Sparta bloodlines that are on his parent's property. These are the old traditional breed of Angus, stemming from English and European bloodlines. They are more of a short, stocky animal, rather than the leggy cows that are reflective of the American cattle. They keep

Norma & Jack with Family Members' Book

Michael Standing in a Crop of Millet

the bulls from those cows and join them back with the herd.

They split their mobs, putting two bulls in with each, an older and a younger bull. “To keep them honest,” said Michael, and will go on to keep up to 120 heifers every year to build their numbers.

With a 10 week calving period during Spring, they pride themselves on the ease of their calving. This last season Michael pulled about 4 or 5 calves, which out of a total of 550 born, is a remarkable statistic. When asked what they are trying to achieve with their cattle Michael reflects that ease of calving is something they have already hit. His other goal is performance, which buyer interest is a strong indication of success, and the positive feedback, with people saying, “whatever you're doing just keep doing it!”

The Willowie property was purchased in September 2003 and has seen a lot of improvements, with 25,000 trees being planted and sand tracks now stretching the length of the farm. Between 80 and 100 acres a year are re-pastured, and a lot of other ground work like spraying, smudging and harrowing taking place throughout the year. If he can get hay off early enough they will also do a lot of cropping. The time and effort spent in improvements has paid off, with the property being able to carry up to one and a quarter animals per acre.

cut in early Summer and the start of a new year seeing calves being vaccinated, tagged and marked. They will also draft out any cull cows.

Crops will go in once the hay has gone, then work on the pastures starting in Autumn, along with a bit of drenching. Winter will see another crop put in, which will later be cut for hay to produce bulk feed, although this is essentially the quieter time of the year where cows will be fed every couple of days, depending on the season.

The future sees plenty of growth, with Michael fixing his sights on increasing cattle numbers

and finding more land. “We'd like to go to 1000 breeding cows, although lease land is getting pretty hard to get hold of now, especially at the right price.”

Seemingly not one to sit and wait about for things to happen, Michael is also expanding in other areas, as he is starting to run a marquee business, with plans to cater for weddings on the property. It is clear, with Michael's strong determination, and the support of his family, there will be no holding him back.

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

In terms of feed Michael is firm about the benefits of good quality grass. “Your grass is the best result every time. You'll get more out of growing grass than you will crops, at the end of the day,” he said. “I've planted everything from oats to triticale, to barley. I've had sorghum and millet in summer crops and I've had short term rye grasses in with the short term winter crops as well. It all depends on the season whether you can get cattle in on the ground, as long as it's not too wet and they don't pug it up and churn it back in. Otherwise you'll go backwards quicker than letting it grown on.”

The year is busy for Michael, with a constant seasonal cycle of calving in Spring, hay being

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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.

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OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10am

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

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.

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Contact Details Craig Grinter 0148 516 857 Fax (03) 5152 3329 Email bhaul@bigpond.net.au thelifestyle thelifestyle summer autumn 2014-15 2015

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A nice rainbow that was taken out of the lower section of the Mitta, just above Dartmout Dam. This fish was taken in late autumn when the rainbows were running upstream to spawn.

This fish fell to a bead head nymph.

with Trevor Stow

AUTUMN FISHING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY Autumn can be a glorious time in the high country and often produces some of the best fishing of the year. The rivers in the Omeo area offer the keen trout fisherman lots of choices and many different conditions. Today we will have a look at the Mitta Mitta River.

Mitta Mitta River has its source at Mt Bogong which is the highest mountain in Victoria. The river basically runs in a south easterly direction before turning north east and spilling into Lake Dartmouth. This section of the Mitta River upstream of Dartmouth Dam (or Big River as it is sometimes known upstream of Blue Duck) is a mixture of wilderness, native forest and farmland with everything in between. It has something for everybody.

The upper section of the river runs through rugged mountains and thick scrub before emerging near the Omeo Highway at Glen Valley. If you are looking for a wilderness experience coupled with solitude in your trout fishing this may be the spot for you. It can be accessed by taking the Kangaroo Creek Track at Glen Valley. This is an easy 4-wheel track that runs parallel to the river for a fair distance before leaving the river. There are

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numerous side tracks down to the river and some lovely bush camping spots.

Fishing in this section is a mixture of pools and runs that will appeal to fly and spin fishermen. “Baities� also take their fair share of fish. In this area the river is surrounded by native bush and some flats where the Mountain Cattlemen previously ran their Herefords. It is a good idea to park here and fish upstream. There is a lot of good fishing water up as far as the confluence with Hollands Creek.

Beyond Hollands Creek there are fewer pools and less fish.

As I have said, this is a remote area and it is more suited to those with a reasonable level of fitness.

It requires wading up the river, climbing over and around large boulders and bashing through the scrub in places. The rewards can be great when the fish are on the chew. Autumn is a terrific time to fish this section, as the river levels are low enough to allow wading and crossing. Also at this time of the year the grasshopper fishing can be spectacular.

Moving downstream from Glen Valley to the Mitta junction with the Bundarra River is some of the

best and most popular fishing in the area. The Omeo Highway is a bitumen road and runs parallel with the river for many kilometres. Those with a 4-wheel drive can take the side tracks to the river.

Those without a 4-wheel drive can park beside the highway and walk to the river. It is not far. There are many great informal camping spots along this section together with a couple of excellent dedicated areas. Jokers Flat and Big River Bridge Camping Area are two absolute crackers. They are both situated immediately beside the river in a park like setting. They are grass sites with good quality bush toilets, numerous fireplaces and easy access off the bitumen for all types of vehicles.

The Bridge Camp is dog friendly but unfortunately you cannot camp at the Joker with Fido.

This section of the river also features lots of pools and runs. As I have said, access is excellent, both to the river and along the river, although of course you will need to wade quite often. After you have finished fishing for the day you can then get out of the river and walk back to your car along the highway. Too easy!

All forms of fishing are successfully practised here.

During autumn, expect good grasshopper fishing

Marg Murray shows the boys how to do it. She nailed a lovely rainbow in the Mitta River fishing in the Hinnomunjie area. The Mitta is basically a brown trout fishery but as Marg showed us, there are some nice rainbows to be taken.

Mick Rosenboom takes a look at a beautiful pool before fishing it. Fly fishermen love this type of water and Mick caught a nice fish here on aRoyal Wulff dry fly.

Mick Rosenboom caught this 1kg brown trout in the lower section of the Mitta River where the running water of the river meets the still waters of the lake.

during the daylight hours and a “rise” during the evening. Snow Flake Caddis often put on quite a show just on and after dark. Take a look at the pool where Middle Creek runs into the Mitta.

steep ridge to the river. The walk back is something else. Do not try this unless you are fit. About 10 years ago, you could drive a 4-wheel drive down this track to the river but it has now been closed off. The Black Duck Hole is a favourite with the bait boys and they get some great catches there at times.

Hinnomunjie Bridge and beside the river near the Dog Fence.

Again, moving downstream we find that the river once again follows the very windy, narrow Omeo Highway but the difference here is that the river is almost unreachable. There are only two access points and they and both difficult. The first is a steep 4-wheel drive track that takes you to the Boulder Garden, but it is unmarked and very hard to find. If you happen to find this spot, you can fish upstream to the confluence with the Bundarra River and exit there. The only problem is that it is a 5 km walk back to your car unless somebody picks you up.

Autumn is a good time to fish this section as it can only be fished during low water conditions.

Wading up the river and crossing it regularly is necessary as the banks are steep and overgrown in many places. I have fished this section of the river numerous times and you certainly get away from the crowd however, to be perfectly honest, I cannot say that the fishing has been anything terrific. The river basically, runs through steep sided bush and I do not think that the food chain is as good here as in the more open country.

The second access is to the Black Duck Hole. To reach this section you need to park next to the highway and walk quite a long distance down a

A fly fisherman fishing the pocket water in the very top section of the Mitta River. You need careful wading in these slippery conditions.

It is not uncommon for them to camp at the river, fish all night and walk out the next morning with a good bag of fish.

At this point the river leaves the road and the next area of interest is the Hinnomunjie Valley where the river emerges from the mountains into farmland.

At this point the river is somewhat larger and the pools and runs, bigger. It is still an attractive river to fish. Access is fairly easy from the Hinnomunjie Bridge, downstream for quite a few kilometres although the river and the road tend to meet and leave each other on a fairly regular basis.

This is not always the best section to fish at this time of the year. It depends on the water flow and the water temperature. During early autumn the river can heat up to 20 degrees plus, which is not at all comfortable for the trout. It is unfortunately just right for the carp that move up from Dartmouth Dam. If conditions are acceptable, then the fishing can be good, as the farmland provides food in the form of hoppers and terrestrials. Good bush camping can be found in this section at the

Once again as we move downstream we lose the river and it emerges at Taylors Crossing. It can be accessed at various spots between here and Dartmouth. I will not go into too much detail here as the Dam is presently 86% full and most of these points are underneath the waters of the Dam. Dartmouth has been at this level or higher for the past couple of years. Also this is not my favourite fishing area as access is poor, the pools are often big and “black” and access along the bank can be challenging.

The Mitta Mitta River is one of Victoria’s premier trout rivers. The area that I have described is basically in a pristine condition, largely unaffected by farming, timber harvesting or development. It is in our High Country and a visit to this region promises not only a great fishing experience, but also a chance to have a look at a unique part of the state. A good map to consult for this area is Rooftop’s Bright-Bogong-Hotham. It shows great detail of all the roads and tracks and is far more user friendly than google. It is unlikely that your car GPS will show enough detail for your fishing purposes.

Next issue, we will have a look at the tributaries of the Mitta Mitta River.

Photos supplied by Trevor Stow

Mick Rosenboom fishing a beautiful run in the section upstream of Glen Valley.

It is remote country.

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Foster Seafoods

Order Your

For all

Easter Seafood Now!

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.

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

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

Specialising in Local Fish

Foster Seafoods

35 Main Street, Foster, Vic 3960 Tel/Fax: (03) 5682 2815 Contact: Alice and Lachie Duncan 66

thelifestyle winter 2014

WHOLESALE SUPPLIERS THROUGHOUT SOUTH GIPPSLAND

Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am – 12.30pm 29 Toora Road, Foster Vic 3960 Phone 03 5682 2095 | Fax 03 5682 1329 | Email contact@aherns.com.au Web www.aherns.com.au like us on

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thelifestyle winter 2014

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PROM COAST SEACHANGE FESTIVAL This event brings the community and businesses together and helps showcase this wonderful region to visitors.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY TOORA & FOSTER COMMUNITY BANK® BRANCHES, ESSO BHP BILLITON AND SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL. The Prom Coast Seachange Festival goes from strength to strength. It grows in size, reputation and participant numbers, so much so that it now needs two weekends to do justice to the big program of events.

The 2015 program will offer a diverse range of events taking in the dates of 17-19 and 24-26 April and will incorporate the many significant Anzac Day events already planned for the area.

Building on the success of four previous festivals, the enthusiastic organising committee, led by Deb Bray as Chair and Joan Liley as Deputy Chair, has met regularly since mid 2014 to plan next year’s program.

“From very early on it became clear that more and more people, including businesses and community groups, want to be involved in the festival,” said Deb Bray.

The festival celebrates creativity, culture, lifestyle and landscape and provides a fantastic platform that attracts quality artists and performances to the region.

“The past four festivals have been extremely successful and well attended by locals, as well

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TWO BIG WEEKENDS 17-19 and 24-26 APRIL 2015

as the region’s regular holiday-makers and visitors from a wide area including Melbourne and interstate,” explained Deb Bray.

“The festival is a wonderful way to draw people together by providing something for everyone,” said Deb Bray. “From food and wine to sustainability and the environment, musicals and art to tours, sport and workshops.”

A range of performances is being locked-in and a variety of venues around the Prom Coast area have been booked to ensure there is room for them all. Playwright and theatre director Chris Dickins’ Waratah The Musical will be produced in conjunction with FAMDA; accomplished violinist Cath Shugg will again play at the Celia Rosser Gallery in Fish Creek; and, the Prom Coast Arts Council’s annual The Great Southern Portrait Prize will be exhibited at the Stockyard Gallery in Foster.

The Sustainable Architecture Tour and the Sustainable Farm and Food Tour, will be on offer and, to get people out and about even more, activities such as bushwalking, bike riding and rock pool rambling are planned.

Children will enjoy opportunities offered by award winning Australian children’s book author/illustrator Alison Lester at her Gallery in Fish Creek; there will be kite making and flying in Sandy Point; and quirky performances such as dog dancing.

Long established events, such as the Foster Farmers Market, Anzac Day commemorations and local sporting events such as the South

ReForm2 Grant Flather (2013)

Karavana Flamenca (2013)

Low Rez, Melbourne Male Choir (2015) by Dave Phung Overlooking Corner Inlet Waratah the Musical Rehearsal (2015) by Chris Dickson

Past Street Food Festival

Coast Boardriders surfing competition will be included in the program and are an important part of promoting what’s on in the local area over the festival’s two weekends.

The traditional Sunday Street Food Festival offers local traders the opportunity to showcase their wares. Many such business are partnering with local artists to turn their shop windows into exhibition space for exciting works of art that will be created utilising or depicting elements particular to the hosting trade.

“We are very keen for local businesses, community groups, clubs and agencies to think about how the festival might work in delivering benefits for them,” explained Deb Bray.

You can keep up to date by visiting the festival Facebook page or website www.promcoastseachangefestival.org.

Extract from Prom Coast Seachange Festival Media Release Dec 2014 Article and photographs supplied by Vanessa Facey – InDetail Comms & PR and Prom Coast Seachange Organising Committee.

Dairy Cows at Yanakie

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DOUBLE BOOK LAUNCH On Tuesday 16 December 2014, at The Red Book Store & Coffee Cog, 12 Breed Street, Traralgon, two Gippsland authors launched their debut novels, The Dandelion by Terry Guilford and An Act of Reparation by Susan Godenzi.

ABC Open producer Rachael Lucas hosted the event Coffee, Cake, Crimes & Cheating Husbands.

Terry Guilford is a psychologist from Inverloch who has recently published her first book, The Dandelion. It is one that she hopes will inspire, entertain and give others insight, clarity and the courage to change and improve the quality of their lives.

Susan Godenzi is a Traralgon author who has written an eBook crime novel, which at present is only available on Amazon. With her husband, Susan has raised, and survived, three teenagers. As they are all adults now, Susan now has time to concentrate more on her writing.

“It is a book for anyone who has ever been cheated on, lost a lover, lost a friend or has had to find their way through one of life’s right hooks to the jaw. So I suppose that is ALL of us.”

She is a member of Writers Victoria, Latrobe Valley Writers and Sisters in Crime. This is also Susan’s debut novel. She has had several short stories published, one in the weekly magazine that’s life! and one in their monthly all fiction publication that’s life! Fast Fiction. Also, several short stories have been published on ABC Open Projects - one of which was selected for reading on radio.

Having had various occupations throughout her life, Terry is a mother, grandmother and a practising psychologist. Her aim through her practice and through her book is to teach people that they have the power to be, do and have whatever is important to them.

Her interest on the power of thought and her studies of the work of Edgar Cayce, Louise L. Hay and Esther Hicks has enabled her, through her work as a psychologist, to encourage more people to become aware of their purpose in life.

(Review from amazon.com) Terry’s book is available in bookshops throughout South Gippsland and as an eBook and paperback from Amazon.

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An Act of Reparation is set against the backdrop of Melbourne’s sometimes dark and sinister streets. Lexie Reed, while researching domestic violence, is central to this gripping crime drama. A battered wife is missing.

One murder occurs, then another. Balancing texture with flashes of humour between the two lead detectives, has led to the first review for her eBook: “It gets a five star because it made me both laugh and cry.” (Review from Amazon UK) Words by Susan Godenzi

Visit the gallery of award winning Australian children’s book Author/illustrator Alison Lester

Alison Lester in Store

regularly throughout the Christmas Holiday period for book signings, and to meet people.

Check the website/facebook page for dates

alisonlester.com Open Thursday – Monday 10 -4 pm, 7 days a week during school holidays or by appointment.

Shop online at alisonlester.com 1 Falls Rd, Fish Creek, Victoria, 3959 P. 03 5683 2352 E. alisonlesteronline@gmail.com

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Teapot Part of Community Garden

Country Charm of

FISH CREEK Hannah Keily

CeliaRosser Gallery

Fish Creek is a small eclectic village located off the main highway, nestled amongst the hills of South Gippsland and situated on the doorstep of Wilsons Promontory and picturesque Waratah Bay. Fish Creek is quickly developing a reputation for its vibrant arts culture, which is evident as you experience first-hand the unique nature of the town. Multiple galleries and cafes display the assorted genres of arts and craft, whether it be Alison Lester’s famous children’s story book store, the Ride The Wild Goat gallery displaying some truly unique and imaginative art pieces made out of metal and other recycled materials, the Gecko Studio Gallery’s superb array of art pieces, craft needs and ceramics, or Celia Rosser’s exquisite art gallery featuring many breathtaking botanical pieces.

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Enjoy an earthy cup of coffee at 9 Acres Café and a mouth-watering scone at the renowned Flying Cow Café. Fish Creek has something for everyone, whether you are interested in the arts and craft, gourmet food, or feeling a little adventurous, you can take a stroll along the historic Rail Trail from Fish Creek to Foster and enjoy the coastal serenity and Prom views.

Fish Creek is home to an array of Australian natural wildlife. Bird-watching and searching for wombats and kangaroos can be quite a rewarding experience if you’re interested in a raw first-hand experience of classic Australian wildlife. Enriched with community feel, Fish Creek’s community stands above many as they strive to improve their little eclectic arts village.

Fish Creek also offers a wide range of sports with its strong and competitive Football and Netball Club, popular bowls club, cricket club and tennis courts. Fish Creek doesn’t hold back on quality eating either, the famous Fish Creek Hotel offers a great family day out with a variety of tantalising meals to choose from. The KO Bar & Grill prepares mouth-watering meals from its unique one-of-a-kind menu, perfect for a night out.

One of the community’s most impressive achievements is their Memorial Hall and their ability to make it the heart and soul of the town as a community base for public and private events.

The hall operates a popular opportunity shop but is constantly serving many other purposes and can be hired out. The hall is maintained, thanks to the profits of the Shop.

Alison Lester

CeliaRosser Gallery

recognised work. Volume 3 will be making a rare visit to the gallery in April or May this year, the dates are yet to be confirmed.

Monash University is the custodian and caretaker of her work. Her gallery displays much of her artwork along with a lovely gift shop where you can purchase a gift for someone who has everything. If you are visiting Fish Creek stopping by the Celia Rosser Gallery is definitely worth the trip and if you’re lucky, you might just meet the grand lady yourself.

Fish Creek’s latest addition to its art scene is Alison Lester’s Gallery and Children’s Bookshop, selling prints, cards, gifts and books. The shop is warm, vibrant and always busy and John the gallery manager is happy to help you out. A great sight was to see kids relaxing and reading in the Reading Corner and parents and visitors enjoying Alison’s range of prints and browsing through the range of gifts. The Alison Lester Gallery is a must see when visiting Fish Creek.

HISTORY

Rich with history, Fish Creek was first settled in 1886 with the Post Office opening in 1890. The Great Southern Railway was built alongside the village in 1892, which closed completely 100 years later in 1992.

In 1900 a community hall was established where the old Fish Creek Butter Factory stands today.

The community hall served as a church until later in 1904, an official Catholic Church was built. A short time later a Union church was constructed at the top of a hill and bears the iconic biblical fish painted onto its roof and can be seen clearly when leaving town. The current Memorial Hall located on Falls Road was built in 1930, replacing its predecessor.

One of the oldest clubs in the district, the Fish Creek Football Club is over 100 years old and has a very strong history, winning 11 premierships out of 15 successive Grand Final appearances from 1953 till 1967. Their name stands as being a powerful club, which has won 33 senior premierships in its time. The club has been a part of 8 different associations, Alberton League being their latest since 1953.

In 1939 the iconic Fish Creek Hotel was established, which is famous for its Art Deco design and as you look up, another Fish Creek Icon comes into view, the “Big Mullet” lying up high on its side. The Hotel has always been one of Fish Creek’s treasures.

ARTS AND CRAFT

For a small town, Fish Creek’s diversity in the art scene is quite unique in Gippsland. As soon as you approach the town you are confronted with quirky houses, craft shops, murals and galleries.

Everything has a slight edge or touch of art to it, which separates Fish Creek from other towns in the region.

Prominent and renowned Botanical Artist Celia Rosser calls Fish Creek home. Her gallery located on the Meeniyan-Promontory Road came to life in 2007. Her success is highly recognised throughout the world. Her work has been viewed by prominent Politicians, Queen Elizabeth and the late Dame Elizabeth Murdoch just to name a few.

Celia completed 3 volumes of watercolour paintings of the Australian Banksia flower which to this day is still her most valuable and most

Fish Creek not only is a town of arts and craft, but a town of community, character, leisure and vibrancy.

Its atmosphere welcomes tourists, day-trippers and locals. Its eclectic feel gives character and uniqueness making Fish Creek the town that it is. With plenty to do, whether it be viewing art galleries, enjoying an early morning coffee down at one of the cafes, having a hearty meal at the iconic Fish Creek Hotel or going on the Rail Trail walk making the most of the scenic Wilsons Prom views.

Fish Creek has something for everyone and will never disappoint. So pack your bags, get in the car and take a road trip down to one of Victoria’s little treasures to experience what this quiet, little village has to offer.

Photographs by Hannah Keily and Douglas Pell

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BP Service Stations Foster 94 Main Street, Foster Vic 3960 Tel/Fax: 5682 2008 Email: foster@evanspetroleum.com.au

Inverloch 25 Williams Street, Inverloch Vic 3996 Tel/Fax: 5674 1442 Email: inverloch@evanspetroleum.com.au

Korumburra 2-8 Commercial Street, Korumburra Vic 3950 Tel/Fax: 5655 1668 Email: korumburra@evanspetroleum.com.au

Leongatha 95 Bair Street, Leongartha Vic 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2440 Email: leongatha@evanspetroleum.com.au

Muddy Creek 26 Foster Road, Toora Vic 3962 Tel/Fax: 5686 2324 Email: toora@evanspetroleum.com.au

Ridgway 106 Ridgway, Mirboo North Vic 3871 Tel/Fax: 5668 2377 Email: mirboo@evanspetroleum.com.au

Sale 344 Raglan Street, Sale Vic 3850 Tel: 5143 1030 Email: robert@evanspetroleum.com.au

Traralgon 23-29 Shakespeare Street, Traralgon VIC 3844 Tel: 5174 1138 Email: Tim@evanspetroleum.com.au

Westside 7 Anderson Street, Leongatha VIC 3953 Tel/Fax: 5662 2834 Email: westside@evanspetroleum.com.au

Wonthaggi 103-105 McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 3988 Fax: 5672 5229 Email: wonthaggi@evanspetroleum.com.au

Yarram 325 Commercial Street, Yarram Vic 3971 Tel: 5182 6019 Fax: 5182 6458 Email: yarram@evanspetroleum.com.au

FISH CREEK

2 Falls Road, Fish Creek Vic 3959 Tel/Fax: 5683 2521 Email: fishcreek@evanspetroleum.com.au Manager: Jan Hamilton

Evans Petroleum Head Office 22 Hughes Street, Leongatha Vic 3953 Tel: 5662 2217 Web: www.evanspetroleum.com.au

THE CELLAR IS OPEN WEEKENDS 12 NOON – 5PM AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS OPEN OVER EASTER HOLIDAYS COME AND ENJOY A DELICIOUS SELECTION OF ANTIPASTO PLATES WITH OUR WINES Contact Geraldine or Tony Conabere 1 Taylor Court, FISH CREEK 3959 0414 295 048 | (03) 5687 1453 | info@basiamille.com.au | www.basiamille.com.au 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

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 LUNCH Mon – Fri: Midday – 2pm Sat – Sun: Midday – 2.30pm DINNER Sun – Thur: 5.45pm – 8pm Fri – Sat: 5.45pm – 8.30pm BAR OPEN Mon – Fri: 11.30am till late Sat – Sun: 11am till late

THE

FISH CREEK HOTEL

1 Old Waratah Rd, FISH CREEK, Vic 3959

(03) 5683 2404 www.fishcreekhotel.com.au thelifestyle autumn 2015

75

Ride the Wild Goat When walking into the gallery at 'Ride the Wild Goat' you are struck by the familiar, recognising items from the everyday, rescued from anonymity. Yet there is also the sense that some extraordinary change has gone on, something organic, facilitated by a person who can see beyond a piece of rusty tin and turn it into truly beautiful artwork. Andrew McPherson is just this type of artist.

Having moved to the small township of Fish Creek seven years ago, Andrew has since established himself as a popular tourist attraction, making a comfortable living from his creations. With his workshop tacked onto the side of the gallery, doors thrown open to the street, he can often be found greeting customers and passers-by, or having the odd conversation with blokes about tools. It is this casual demeanour, and the enthusiastic greeting by his dogs Jack and Lucy, that encourage you to explore the adjoining gallery.

Brimming with metal, wood carvings, paintings and discarded items; everywhere you turn there is something that has been given new life.

A furniture maker since he left school, Andrew has been creating most of his life. He began working for himself and discovered fine woodwork, but it was after completing a painting course at a local learning centre that the pathway to art was opened to him. With life changes leaving everything up in the air he decided it was time to give it a crack.

Andrew lets his mood determine what will be on his daily agenda, a luxury that few enjoy, but for an artist it is almost something of a necessity.

Being able to be guided by his inspiration speaks volumes when it comes to his finished artworks, and the regular flow of visitors, and indeed buyers, who wander through the gallery.

When asked what is his favourite works to create he explains that it changes. “I get bored with wood, so I'll do some painting. It's good to move it around. I'm a bit obsessed with

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carving animals at the moment. I'll get driven by something for a while, then I'll change it around.”

Often it is the material itself that inspires him to do something completely different for the day, which Andrew adds, “That's the privilege.”

He also is commissioned to do pieces from time to time, with a recent sculpture now gracing the Leongatha Hospital, but most of the time he makes whatever he chooses. He is heading towards doing more larger sculptures, and has plans for a sculpture garden between his and the neighbouring shop. He also recently held an exhibition at the Stockyard Gallery in Foster in conjunction with another artist, which was a series of paintings done in the exact same location in Walkerville South. The intention was to capture the different light over the course of a year, or as Andrew better explains, “This was how I felt on the day.”

When working it will depend on the item itself as to how much he gets done in a day. He is conscious, however, of making ends meet, and will always try to make something of monetary value at the end of the day, although it is only occasionally that he feels a little pressure to make something to help pay the bills. The most popular items he makes are his vases that are fashioned out of old sheet metal, which if he's ever not feeling particularly inspired he can make a few of these and be satisfied that he has achieved something for the day.

Exploring his gallery he points out a rusted sheet of corrugated iron on the wall, where seeing it through different eyes, it has been brought to life. With Andrew “things become things.” Sometimes it's a cropping exercise, just cutting out the bits that don't work; or perhaps covering a part with something else.

An old board from the sale yards, with years of rusty staples that used to hold the lot numbers,

'FINDING BEAUTY'

Amber Rhodes

which he feels quite connected to. However it is through talking to customers that he develops a personal relationship, so he is always satisfied that his works are going somewhere that they are going to be appreciated.

It is dealing with his customers himself that helps breathe that extra bit of magic into all of his art, taking the time to show people the beauty behind the ordinary.

“That's my thing,” said Andrew, “To see beauty and then be able to show it to people.

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

has been salvaged to create a story, perhaps dandelions blowing in the wind.

This freedom to let things decide themselves what they are going to become is liberating for Andrew, after years of spending the majority of his working life adhering to the precise constraints of furniture making, something he enjoyed, but from which he was ready to move on.

spinning and doing their own thing, the largest remaining in motion for twenty minutes. They will stop of their own accord, before spinning back the opposite way.

“I've got that freedom to let it go where it wants to. When you're making fine furniture everything has to be perfect and smooth, where if you drop it and dent it you have to start again. Whereas now a dent can become part of the art.”

Andrew's favourite work is what he calls the 'Prayer Wheels', bell shaped domes that are suspended from the ceiling in various sizes.

They spin, which Andrew demonstrates, and he explains that they develop a cathartic energy,

He normally has no problem letting art go, as customers find themselves drawn to a particular piece that has to accompany them home, except perhaps the 'Prayer Wheels',

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TARRA BULGA

Barbara Jeffrey

NATIONAL PARK BALOOK RAINFOREST RHYTHMS Moss covered roots of Myrtle Beech

Sunday 15th February 2015 Local singers and musicians Including Barbara Jeffrey Harpist Singer & Songwriter "Nuevo Folk" – “I've been using this term in describing the genre I play because whilst the harp is known as a fairly traditional instrument, it is capable of a very wide variety of music depending on how you play it and the vocals you accompany it with.

So, whilst not normally associated in a pub setting, the harp has seen its fair share of drinking halls and loud venues. The music whilst respecting tradition, can be upbeat as well as serene. It just depends on the journey the audience wants to take.” www.barbara-jeffrey.com Today they produced haunting sounds as you both sat and enjoyed the music or you strolled through the rainforests; making the experience somewhat surreal.

The Sale RSL Pipe Band “The Band was formed in the early 1990’s to promote the love of Scottish music and culture in the local area. The Band, based in Sale, wear the Macfarlane tartan in tribute to the Scottish people who pioneered the local area. The Band is lead by Pipe Major David Hynd and Drum Sergeant Rebecca Warford. We appear very regularly in the local shires of Wellington, East Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley.”

“Our band practises Monday nights at 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall complex above the Veteran Affairs Office in Macalister Street, Sale. New learners, of pipes or drums, of any age are more then welcome to come along.”

Ian Potter, President of Sale RSL Pipe Band

Listening to the tunes

Corrigan Suspension Bridge

Tarra Valley Nature Walk

Enjoying the music

Sale RSL Pipe Band

Just relaxing

RAY MASSARO

DEALS ON WHEELS Chris West

used car sales division. The company has the capability to service and repair any make and model of vehicle, tractors and farm machinery.

Massaro Motors also takes pride in offering a Paint and Panel Workshop and is a retailer of automotive paint, parts and accessories and associated products.

If you live in the Latrobe Valley, there is a strong chance that at some time you have purchased a new or used car from Massaro Motors. For more than forty years, the dealership has grown from very modest beginnings under the drive and direction of its founder Ray Massaro.

Ray was just 23 years old when he established the business, setting his sights on purchasing a disused Shell service station and roadhouse at the edge of town at 497 Princes Drive in Morwell and securing a franchise arrangement with Chrysler. After making several modifications to the site, including filling in the canopy of the former service station to become a car showroom, Massaro Motors was ready to begin trading in February 1974. “We opened with just three new cars for sale, all of which were Chrysler Valiants,� Ray recalls.

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Over the past four decades, the motoring brands in the showroom and forecourt have evolved, but the Massaro name has remained a constant and instilled a sense of trust amongst car buyers in the local regions.

Today, Massaro Motors is a multi-faceted hub for new Land Rover, Volkswagen and Suzuki vehicles and Kubota tractors, along with a quality

As a self-made success, Ray has benefited from a can-do attitude and the courage to take risks.

From day one, he has never been afraid to set lofty ambitions in business and life.

“If you want to soar like an eagle, you have to surround yourself with high flyers,” he says.

Before establishing Massaro Motors, Ray had been working for Travally Motors, a local familyowned Chrysler dealership with sites in Morwell and Traralgon. He gained more than five years of experience at Travally Motors, commencing as an apprentice motor mechanic at 17.

“I had always tinkered with machines and equipment and welded things as I’d grown up.

Having decided to learn a trade after leaving school, I was either going to be a boilermaker or mechanic. It was just a matter of whoever offered first,” Ray states.

“The Travally Motors management saw potential in me and I completed my four-year apprenticeship with them. Despite my young age, they recognised my ability as a problem solver and I seemed to get all the difficult jobs.”

Ray was promoted to service manager by the then owner Rod Cook at Travally Motors, a role he performed for 18 months before the family sold the business to concentrate on their farming and other interests. Under new ownership, the business changed to a Datsun dealership and Ray soon found himself contemplating a major change of his own.

“I struggled to fit in with the new owners and it wasn't long before deciding to go out on my own.”

Ray prepared a business plan and approached the Chrysler head office in South Australia in the hope of gaining a franchise. He must have sufficiently impressed the decision makers, who examined his application in close detail and subsequently endorsed his appointment as a Chrysler dealer.

At the time, Ray was engaged to fiancé Dianne, who remains his wife today. The disused Shell

service station in Morwell that Ray purchased as the site for Massaro Motors in August 1973 included a three-bedroom house that became a home for him and Dianne. The roadhouse restaurant was turned into the spare parts department, a small team of staff was recruited and through his determined effort Ray had his own fledgling business up and running within just six months.

Although servicing was Ray’s area of expertise, he had to become an all-rounder in managing his own business.

“Overalls were my work uniform, but through necessity I had to become involved with the whole gamut of the business, including the sales and administration side. Dianne worked in the office when we started out,” he notes.

“Everyone I employed was hands on and multi-skilled. Whatever had to be done was done and everybody chipped in. That’s what I did and I expected them to do the same.”

Ray’s hard work paid dividends and the business grew quickly. Within two years, Massaro Motors had added Land Rover as a second brand with Chrysler and then Suzuki followed the year after. The agricultural side of the business was introduced in the late 70s with Kubota and during the 1990s Chrysler was phased out of production and replaced temporarily with Mitsubishi, before Volkswagen became another flagship brand for the business 14 years ago.

“We have experienced exceptional growth with all our brands Volkswagen, Land Rover Suzuki and Kubota. They have proven to be very stable, solid performers for us,” Ray reveals.

“We essentially brought Volkswagen to the Gippsland market as the brand had not been active in the Australian market for many decades.

Our VW sales have been growing 20 per cent a year for the past ten years.”

According to Ray, all sections of the business at Massaro Motors have been going from strength to strength in the last decade. Volkswagen's entry into the Australian market has seen the brand become the largest European importer in the auto industry and growing.

“We have seen plenty of ups and downs in business over the past 40 years, with industry privatisation and restructure, fires and other disasters. Overall Gippsland and the Valley has been quite resilient and has continually evolved with constant overall growth.”

As the business expanded over the years, it became necessary for Ray to acquire further land at the back of the Princes Drive site to allow sufficient space to accommodate multiple dealerships. But the growth at Massaro Motors has not been restricted to its forecourt size or the volume of its vehicle sales. Over the past 41 years, staff numbers at the company have increased from a team of six at establishment to 50 today, including a number of long-time loyal employees.

“Our used car manager Don Barnes will be retiring this year after 33 years with us across two stints and our association with our Land Rover sales specialist Charlie Calafiore also spans over 30 years,” Ray proudly states.

As well as managing a successful business, Ray and Dianne have raised a family of six children, the first two of whom were born while living on the premises at Massaro Motors. They subsequently knocked down the house at the dealership to make way for expansion plans and purchased a property at Delburn near Mirboo North to raise and educate the children. As their family

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“Even as far back as when he was at school, he told me I was sitting in his chair. I replied that he’d have to earn his stripes and that is exactly what he has been doing.”

But at 64 years of age, Ray has no plans to drive away from the business just yet.

“I still love what I do and look forward to going to work every day when I get up in the morning.”

As the dealer principal and managing director of Massaro Motors, Ray maintains an extremely busy schedule in his working life, but over the years has still managed to devote time to other interests and be active in the local community.

During the early 1980s he was instrumental in reviving the fortunes of the Thorpdale Football Club, including serving as President for five years. In a notable achievement, Ray assembled a group of 20 willing workers to instigate a major redevelopment of the Club’s facilities. The hard work paid dividends, with both the Thorpdale Seniors and Reserve teams winning the Grand Final in 1986 and then reshaping the football oval and building brand new clubrooms for football, tennis, cricket and netball, all housed in the new facility at the recreation reserve. increased in size, the couple twice extended their farmhouse before eventually moving to a fivebedroom house in Tyers.

All three sons and three daughters still live in the local area and have so far provided five grandchildren aged from nine down to two.

Several of Ray and Dianne’s six children have also spent periods working in the business, but only their 30-year-old son Luke has made a permanent career of it.

“Luke manages the agricultural side of the business. He has taken our Kubota tractor division to the highest Five Star Performance Level,” Ray explains.

The logical progression would be for Luke to one day succeed his father in running the business.

“We’ve talked about it,” Ray says.

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For Massaro Motors to have stood the test of time over more than four decades is testament to the job Ray has done in steering the business.

He believes his success has been built around adhering to solid, basic principles.

“I have always tried to employ good, clean living people in keeping with a commitment to providing honesty and good service to our customers and suppliers. In this industry, those qualities are vital and it is important to also have brand loyalty and provide exceptional customer service.

Ray also served on the former Morwell Shire Council in the early 1990s, with the aim of ending a significant disparity in the rates system in the town at that time. Creating a groundswell for change, he was successful in his mission to bring parity to the local council charges.

Through a previous involvement as president of Latrobe Personnel, Ray helped to assist local people with disabilities be gainfully employed across various businesses from Warragul through to Sale. He is also a diehard supporter of the Morwell Golf Club, having sponsored the monthly medal day in November since 1974 and many other sporting clubs and groups across Gippsland.

“My philosophy is that you want your brands to be the best in the business, be trouble free, progressive, aggressive, reliable, well made and be the best in their categories. Land Rover is undoubtedly the best brand in the 4x4 market by far. Volkswagen offers the best range and most affordable German engineering brand, while Suzuki is the most cost effective quality Japanese brand. Kubota is the most reliable and domestically has the best agricultural product line in the business.”

The company’s motto is “We care for you and your car” and Ray has insisted on living up to that promise.

Massaro Motors is considerate and accommodating in its approach to customers. If people cannot make it into the dealership, the company will make arrangements to bring the customer’s choice of vehicle to them for a no obligation test drive.

“The standard of the service any business provides to its customers is absolutely critical,” Ray emphasises.

“Our customers are our business. Ultimately, they have to drive away happy and everything we do is focused on making sure that happens.”

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Fred Bond

Gallipoli James Garrett aged 18 was killed on May 29th in the German Officers’ Trench. He was born in Outtrim and his parents lived on McCartin’s Rd Foster. He is on several honour rolls in the area.

The 8th Light Horse Regiment was involved in the attack on the Nek on August 7th 1915. There were several young men from South Gippsland in this battalion. They left their horses in Egypt and went to Gallipoli as infantry.

They were fine horsemen trained as part of the South Gippsland Mounted Rifles.

The young men of South Gippsland certainly played their part in the Gallipoli campaign and now 100 years after the event their stories are being told. We want to know who these young men were and what happened to them during that infamous campaign.

The Leongatha Memorial Hall is the Shire of Woorayl’s memorial to those who served in World War 1. The names of the men who lost their lives appear on two black marble honor rolls, which are located in the stairwell of the hall. Those who returned have their names on white marble honor rolls. In other communities throughout the region, names are on cenotaphs and honour boards. Each one of these men and women has a special story to tell. It is impossible to tell them all. The following are but some of the stories of our community’s war service. Much of the information comes from The Great Southern Star of 1915.

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SOME SOUTH GIPPSLANDERS WHO DIED AT GALLIPOLI ON ANZAC DAY APRIL 25TH 1915 William McKenzie McHarg was 27 when he enlisted in Wonthaggi on August 20th 1914 soon after war was declared. He was the schoolteacher at Pound Creek and his parents lived in Korumburra. William was reported missing on May 1st. A court of enquiry held in 1917 declared that he was killed in action on April 25th.

Claude Crowl a farmer of Poowong was killed at Boulton’s Ridge also on April 25th.

Robert Brown was the son of Catherine Brown of Leongatha. He enlisted in Western Australia when he was 19 years and 10 months old. He was missing in action soon after the landing at Gallipoli and was later determined to have been killed in action.

On September 17th The Great Southern Star reported the deaths of two soldiers from Buffalo who were part of the 8th Light Horse: Ernest Barton & Thomas Murray. Tom Murray was the captain of the cricket team and took a keen interest in the sport. Ernie Barton was secretary of many societies including the committee which organised the annual picnic and sports day. He was also captain of the Meeniyan football team for a season. Other members of the 8th Light Horse killed at the Nek were Robert Beilby of Leongatha South, Michael Edward Larkin of Tarwin Meadows, Oscar John Matthies of Koorooman East and Morton Cakebread, a 19 year old boundary rider who worked in the district.

John Reginald Shallberg of the 8th Battalion, a bank teller from Leongatha, suffered a gunshot wound and died on a hospital ship out at sea off the Gallipoli coast.

Many of our boys died of wounds. John Joseph Sperling of Koonwarra died in Mudros on the Greek island of Lemnos. It was here that the 1st Australian General Hospital was located. Roy Keith McLean of Meeniyan,

Oscar Matthies Tom Murray

from a

South Gippsland Perspective Lyn Skillern

Robert Beilby

Saddler Sargeant Harris Goller saw the Gallipoli landing from a very different perspective. He remained on board a ship out at sea off the Gallipoli coast. His job was to mind the horses and he observed the battle that raged for four days from that position. The bombardment started at 4 am and the Turks then dropped bombs all around their ships so they had to move further away.

8th Battalion and Robert Thomas 14th Battalion died of wounds in hospital in Egypt.

Albert Chenery a young Englishman of Koorooman East died of wounds in Malta.

On July 6th 1915 a letter was reported in the Star newspaper. This was from a Sergeant Neville Rollason who was in Malta after being wounded. His aunt was Mrs Martin of Leongatha. He was at the landing and told how they drove the Turks back. After their success they had to wait while the heavy guns came ashore. The terrain was difficult and they had to dig trenches. They were later in the trenches for three days with no overcoats or oilskins so were very cold at night. They had little sleep due to constant Turkish fire.

Sgt Rollason's group went to Kabatepe with the Tommies (the British). Neville was hit in the head. His wound took a long time to bandage and he was weakened by loss of blood. Seven other men were killed or wounded in this death trap. Neville dragged himself back with a man who had his jaw broken by a bullet.

Wounds were dressed on the beach and he was evacuated to Alexandria and then Malta.

Not being able to help those on shore was frustrating. The terrain was too rough for the horses to go ashore and eventually they had to be returned to Egypt. Harris eventually returned from the war and in 1920 came to Leongatha to set up as a saddler. He was a founding member of the Leongatha Sub-Branch of the RSL.

Frederick Bond Frederick William Bond was from French Island.

By the age of 14, Fred was working on the mainland at Bass. By the start of the war he had been working underground in the tin mines at Ardlethan in NSW but then took a contract clearing land.

In one of his letters home, he wrote of his views on the war. “Although I do not believe in it I am not one to shirk while others fight and if they call for volunteers, I shall offer myself.�

Frederick William Bond was killed in action on the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 27th 1915. He has his name on the Lone Pine Memorial.

Dr K G Aberdeen was a South Gippsland boy who went on to become a doctor.

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The following is a letter from Dr K G Aberdeen received by his parents at Leongatha dated May 2nd 1915 and published in The Great Southern Star. He wrote from Egypt where many of the wounded were taken from Gallipoli.

“The paper will have told you, the Australians have finally got to the war.

You know as much as we do as to the general fighting, and, anyhow, there is no time to talk of them now. The Australians did splendidly. They face a real hell without flinching, and put up a performance unbeaten in this war.

Landing in a heavily defended country, lots were drowned before reaching the shore. Once on land, shelter was not to be found.

Explosive bullets and shrapnel found them everywhere. For four days and nights they stuck to it without rest, always being harassed by the enemy mostly invisible, and seeing their pals go out one by one. There has been nothing so solid even in the French war…….

At this end we see none of the glory of war but only the result of it. Five of our officers have been collared to work at the big Heliopolis Hospital.

It has been a big week for us with the shifting from Mena to Heliopolis, and this puts the finishing touch on it. All yesterday afternoon and most of last night we were going solid. Today it is the same. Hospital trains are pouring in all the time. Over 2000 wounded have been brought in up to date. I am doing ward work, and there is an infinite amount to do.

The pluck of the boys is astounding. Some of them have had as much mentally and physically as a human being can stand but they are nearly all cheerful. The bullet wounds are often very light, and the number of remarkably narrow escapes is beyond belief. But the explosive bullets are very bad and the shrapnel cruel. I have been sore at the idea of being a non-combatant and even at one time partially arranged for a transfer. But now I am mighty glad to be a medical man. One can help dozens of cases in a day and that is more than one could destroy of the enemy as a fighter.

To help these boys is an honour; to see the splendid specimens of humanity coming back – unshaven, bloody and tattered clothes out of a living hell – and scarcely one of them with a broken spirit, but all demanding an answer to “How long before I am back? Truly it is magnificent. These lads deserve the very best that their country can give them and for my part they will get it to the limit.”

Anzac Cove Sign taken by Ryley Muldoon

This is the true spirit of ANZAC...

These are some of our Gallipoli stories, but the major loss of life for Australians and Gippslanders was still to come on the Western Front.

As the soldiers wrote in their letters, this was – ‘somewhere in France’.

Photographs by Ryley Muldoon of Leongatha at Gallipoli April 2014 Others supplied by Lyn Skillern

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Lone PIne taken by Ryley Muldoon

The Avenues of Honour project is a national initiative to honour with a tree the memory of every individual who has made the supreme sacrifice on behalf of all Australians.

You can purchase The Gallipoli Rosemary at Grow Master Traralgon and 50 cents from every plant purchased is donated to the Avenue of Honours Project.

62 Argyle St, Traralgon Vic 3844 Ph: (03) 5174 2861 www.growmaster.com.au/traralgon

Scan the QR Code to find out some of the great deals we have at Grow Master Traralgon

ABERFELDY remembers Madeleine Stuchbery

Amidst the towering gum trees and blue hued mountains of the Baw Baw region, the small and often unheard of hamlet known as Aberfeldy is a camping and hiking destination for those looking to travel far off the beaten track. Nestled next to her more well known sister town, Walhalla, many people pass through this pocket of the Baw Baw National Forest, the dense, picturesque woodlands belying the rich and unique history tucked away in amongst the trees. However, thanks to the passion, drive and dedication of several local residents and fanatical visitors, Aberfeldy is slowly and carefully unearthing and preserving golden nuggets of the history of the region, to educate and commemorate for all time.

While the area is remote and tranquil now, a century or more ago it was a busy township, servicing numerous profitable gold mines and small neighbouring towns with now long forgotten names; Toombon, Red Jacket, Jericho and others, and it was from these small towns that men came forward over a hundred years ago to protect the nation of Australia to join the ranks of those willing to defend the British Empire during the First World War. In commemoration of their efforts, and in memoriam of the lives lost, the eight members of the Aberfeldy Cemetery Trust are coming together with the assistance of the Victorian Government through the Cemeteries Section to erect a Seat of Remembrance in their honour.

The members of the trust, including the hardworking chairperson Ralph Chesterfield, are dedicated to celebrating the memory of the 14 young men who travelled from the Aberfeldy area a century ago, and have been allocated a $5000 grant from the Victorian Government which will be used to construct The Seat of Remembrance, to be built by John Schroeders

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local man was Sir John Patrick Dwyer who was born at Aberfeldy in 1879. Both his parents are buried in the Aberfeldy Cemetery. Sir John Patrick Dwyer rose to the rank of lieutenant during his service with the A.I.F. He was regarded as a classical lawyer and possessed a fine incisive mind. Dwyer was appointed Chief Justice of Western Australia in 1946 and was knighted in 1949. He became administrator of Western Australia in 1951. He was appointed an honorary Lieutenant Governor for life in W.A. and held a number of senior government posts.

and his sons, who have long had an association with the district. The seat will be constructed from Australian red gum, inserted into the back of which will be a glass panel with the names of the fourteen men who served. To be installed on a base of crushed rock, the seat will be positioned in the picturesque and historic Aberfeldy Cemetery; a small, humble place corralled by dense bushland and rolling hills.

Of the men to be recorded, three of them were brothers, all born at Aberfeldy. Another man, William Archie Donaldson, was a school teacher and his parents owned the Toombon General Store. William Donaldson was killed in action and gave his life for Australia. Yet another

Every one of the fourteen men who volunteered during the First World War have a story to be told, which the committee of the Aberfeldy Cemetery Trust and the other members of the Aberfeldy community are eager to tell. Every headstone in the cemetery, each unmarked grave site has a history of the people who toiled on this harsh land, those who lived their lives amongst the tranquil surroundings, and those who simply visited, fell in love with the land, and chose Aberfeldy to be their final resting place.

The Memorial Seat of Remembrance, to be positioned in the Aberfeldy Cemetery overlooking the majestic rolling vista of Aberfeldy itself, is a community project by community people, in the memory of the original members of the small villages and townships who served our nation.

The unveiling of the Memorial Seat of Reflection will be held on Anzac Day, April 25th 2015 at 2pm at the Aberfeldy Cemetery.

Lest We Forget.

Photographs by Madeleine Stuchbery

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On 25 April 2015 we mark the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli. Over the years Anzac Day has become one of the most important national occasions for us, and the Centenary is expected to further enhance the importance of this historical event. Anzac day does not celebrate a military victory, but instead serves as an opportunity to commemorate all of the Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations, and the contribution of all those who have served.

The red poppy was one of the first to grow and bloom in the mud and soil of World War 1 battlefields. The connection was made, most famously,

by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae in his poem 'In Flanders fields'. The red Flanders poppy has become a symbol of war remembrance the world over, and for Australians it is a symbol for the ANZAC day commemorations - to remember those who died in war or who still serve.

To mark the Centenary, Mr Fothergill’s Seeds have partnered with Legacy Australia to develop a commemorative Flanders Poppy seed packet that invites all Australians to participate in the occasion by planting Flanders Poppies in their home garden. By doing so this will also support the great work of Legacy Australia, who will receive a $0.50 donation from Mr Fothergill’s Seeds for every commemorative packet of poppies sold.

Legacy is dedicated to caring for the families of deceased and incapacitated veterans. Today Legacy's caring and compassionate service assists around 90,000 widows and 1,900 children and dependants with a disability. Legacy is a voluntary organisation supported by veterans, servicemen and women, and volunteers drawn from all walks of life. Their support and services now extend to include the dependants of members of today's Australian Defence Force who lose their lives or their health as a result of their military service. Legacy is dedicated to enhancing the lives and opportunities of families through innovative and practical programs aimed at: • • • •

The protection of individuals and families basic needs; Advocating for their entitlements, rights and benefits; Assisting families through bereavement; Helping people thrive, despite their adversity and loss.

The Commemorative Poppy seed packets are available from February 2015 at Grow Master Garden Centre Traralgon for RRP $2.95.

Join us in commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Gallipoli landings and supporting Legacy Australia.

Lest we forget.

Mr. Fothergill’s Seeds Pty Ltd With Legacy Australia

62 Argyle St, Traralgon Vic 3844 Ph: (03) 5174 2861 www.growmaster.com.au/traralgon

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Scan the QR Code to find out some of the great deals we have at Grow Master Traralgon

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

LANDING AT GALLIPOLI 1915 “On the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. These became know as Anzacs and the pride they took in that name continues to this day.”

Members discounts on meals and drinks 2 Function Rooms available Fantastic Members nights every Thursday and Friday Members Draw $800-$1000 to be won!

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BOOK YOUR FUNCTION TODAY WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS ANNIVERSARIES, ANY SPECIAL OCCASION CATERED FOR BUSINESS BREAKFASTS SEMINARS

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thelifestyle spring 2013

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Chr

is W est

The City of Traralgon Band is tuning up its preparations ahead of embarking on an historic 14-day tour to England and France on 24th May. A travelling party of 60 will make the journey, comprising 30 band members and a further 30 partners, family members and associates.

The motivation behind the tour is a unique opportunity to participate in the worldrenowned Whit Friday Brass Band competitions in northern England and then to continue on to France to perform at the war graves of fellow Australians.

Planning for the trail-blazing expedition has been two years in the making, led by Tour Committee Chairman Alan Wilson, who is also the band’s Vice President. Alan and his wife Debbie, both of whom are playing members of the band, made a reconnaissance visit to the Whit Friday competitions in 2013.

Last year, the couple returned to enjoy the sights and sounds of Whit Friday for the second time and also journeyed to France to map out the itinerary for the French section of the trip with a local tour guide.

The Whit Friday competitions have a history dating back to 1884 and were featured in the

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critically acclaimed movie and stage production Brassed Off. Up to 14 competitions are held in a single day across villages in the Saddleworth and Tameside areas of Lancashire, commencing at 4pm and continuing until 1am in the morning.

These regions are traditional coal mining areas and regarded as the heartland of brass banding.

The annual Whit Friday event attracts nearly 200 bands, including the finest ensembles of their kind in the world.

“A couple of the players in our band originally came from this area and had told us about the Whit Friday competitions,” Alan explains.

“We also played at the theatre when Brassed Off came out and we also did a Brassed Off stage show with the Break A Leg theatre a couple of years ago. Given the strong connection, our Committee got together and suggested we should go across and experience the real thing.”

The Whit Friday format involves both street marches and stage events and it is the City of Traralgon Band’s intention to perform in as many competitions as possible.

“No other Australian band has previously contested this event, so we will be breaking new ground,” Alan reveals.

Alan says the Committee also recognised a fitting opportunity to add a French component to the tour.

“As part of the 100-year celebration of World War One, we thought it would also be an incredible experience to visit the Somme area of France and perform in honour of the many Australian service men and women who didn’t get to come home. We understand that military bands have done this before, but have been told that we will have the distinction of becoming the first community band to do so.

“We’re looking for anyone in Gippsland with a relative who lost their life fighting in France and we’ll try to pinpoint the location of their grave so that we can perform a service in their memory,” he explains.

“The remains of the great uncle of our current President, Phil Medhurst were able to be identified through DNA testing following the discovery of a mass grave at Pheasant Wood near Fromelles. His name was Tom Cosgriff.

Debbie and I saw his gravesite last year and it will be a great personal highlight for Phil and his family to make that visit as well. All the war graves in France are beautifully kept and it’s going to be very moving for our entire group to be there.”

As Alan notes, brass bands played an important and ubiquitous role in World War One.

“Our band here in Traralgon played at the railway station 57 times to send off trains leaving to take service men and women to World War One and played again to welcome back every train that returned. They did the same thing in World War Two. “When they got to Melbourne there was always another brass band to meet them. There would be brass band at the camp and when they went to the boat to leave there would be a brass band to send them off. There certainly would have been a brass band accompanying them on the boat and a band awaiting their arrival at the other end in France.

“We want to return the favour. Sadly, many of our Australians didn’t get a chance to be brought home musically, so we thought we’d go there to honour them.”

The first week of the tour itinerary is contained to England, where the group will spend time initially in London upon arrival. It is hoped that the band will perform a concert at Tower Hill in the English capital before travelling by coach to Manchester to prepare for the Whit Friday competitions in Saddleworth, which will take place on 29th May. Prior to competing on Whit Friday, the Gippsland visitors have been invited to listen to Black Dyke Band in rehearsal, universally regarded as the world’s foremost brass band.

On 1st June the group will return to London to travel to Lille by rail on the Eurostar to commence the French section of the tour. From their base in Lille, the group will devote three days to visiting the former battlefields of the Western Front and Somme region. Stops include such significant locations as Fromelles and the Australian memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.

The tour concludes in Paris, where the band is planning to give concert performances at both the Australian Embassy and Euro Disney.

Organising a tour of this scale and magnitude poses a considerable logistical challenge.

Transporting a 60-member group such a

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distance by air, road and rail is no easy feat and a separate truck will be needed to carry all the musical instruments when on the ground.

The band engaged Jacqui Ingram from Flying Colours Travel in Sale as a professional tour manager to formulate the itinerary and manage the bookings. Jacqui will be amongst the nonplaying members accompanying the band on their travels, as will the Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Dale Harriman.

For a community band consisting entirely of volunteers, the considerable cost of staging such a trip is also particularly daunting.

“Just for the band members alone, the overall expense comes to nearly $200,000,” Alan states.

“The Council has helped, but we’ve had to rely largely on our own fundraising efforts which have included a mobile coffee van, selling chocolates and a car raffle. As well as we have done, there is still a significant shortfall.

On present estimates, the band will have to make up more than $75,000 themselves. Our fundraising will continue in the final lead up to the tour and naturally we would be grateful for any additional corporate support or individual donations.”

The City of Traralgon Band has a long and proud history dating back to 1881. Alan Wilson has been a member of the band for the past 50 years. He plays the euphonium, whilst wife Debbie is a trombonist.

Alan’s musical interest was formed at a young age and stemmed from his father playing in a band at Morwell.

“For a child, playing a musical instrument in a community band is a really good thing. Not only does it teach discipline, you learn how to march as part of a group and it becomes something you can take through your whole life,” he comments.

Today, the City of Traralgon Band is fully representative of the age spectrum from youth to the elderly. Playing members range from

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eight years to about 75 and hail from several towns in the local area including Traralgon, Morwell, Moe, Trafalgar, Sale, Maffra, Glengarry, Toongabbie, Mirboo North, Leongatha and Korumburra.

Each year, the band performs around 5,000 hours in the community. Of all the performances it has given, none will be more significant than those that will happen on the upcoming expedition. Alan is certain that the band will fly the flag for Gippsland and Australia with pride and distinction throughout their journey of discovery on the other side of the globe.

“Not only does the tour help promote our region internationally, it is going to be a wonderful experience to be involved in the Whit Friday competitions and see the home of brass banding. Musically, it will be very difficult to compete with the best English bands in their homeland, but the experience of just being there and performing will be fantastic,” he says.

“Then to move on to the Somme area to perform at the war graves will also be something truly special. For some of our tour group, the opportunity to play for their fallen forefathers is going to a very emotional experience.”

Photographs courtesy of the City of Traralgon Band

SERVICE DEDICATIONS If you have a family descendant buried in the war graves of France and would like the City of Traralgon Band to dedicate a service in their honour during the upcoming tour.

Please contact Alan Wilson on 0418 513 060 or email alan@awib.com.au with all known details.

In December 2012 a fire destroyed the office & showroom of the Growmaster Nursery in Traralgon. Through the efforts of their Insurance Broker, Alan Wilson together with the owners Craig and Debbie Goodman, the nursery was able to open its doors to the public and continue trading the very next day.

Traralgon residents watched closely, as the new showroom emerged from the ashes bigger and better than ever.

This claim illustrated clearly the advantages of dealing with a Professional Insurance Broker like Alan Wilson Insurance Brokers.

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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At Grow Master Traralgon inspiration awaits you.

Wander through the layers of our beautiful Garden Centre, each step leading you into another chapter of ideas for your home, garden and lifestyle.

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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

GARDENING with Q. What would you consider as the best natives to plant?

A. For taller specimens in the home garden there are some great options: (a) Grafted Eucalypts which are now available to purchase so you are guaranteed the flower colour. Colours range from bright orange, red, pink and white. You can select the variety to suit the maximum height you want it to grow, in most of the colour ranges. The lowest growing selections reach 2 to 3 metres. (b) Agonis Burgundy is a fantastic graceful small tree to around 6 mt with its new growth arching over with burgundy foliage. (c) Acacia Lime Magic is another great garden plant with a natural weeping habit. This plant has lime green foliage full to the ground if desired and provides a great backdrop to other garden plants.

For lower specimens: Grevilleas have now been bred to perform very well in sunny well- drained positions. These plants are bird attracting and flower for long periods. Colours include shades of red, orange, pink, white mauves etc. Ground covers are also available with Grevilleas. Grevillea have really interesting variation in foliage, colour and texture. There are many other fantastic natives and Autumn is when the best range is available and a great time to plant.

Greviilleas

Flowering Gums

CraigGoodman Q. I am interested in adding a water feature to my garden; do I have to install a new tap near the feature?

A. Water features are great additions to gardens and come in many forms. Most water features will run on low voltage pumps and the water is pumped around from the base pond, therefore recirculating the water. You should only need to top water features up due to evaporation and splash.

Q. How would I keep ponds clean naturally?

A naturally clean pond needs aquatic plants, fish and a beneficial bacteria such as “Splosht”. These factors create good pond ecology and this is the best way to combat algae and remove sludge build up in a pond.

Citrus

Q. When is the best time to plant bulbs?

A. Coming into Autumn is perfect timing for planting Spring flowering bulbs. Tulips, Freesias, Daffodils, Anenome, Ranunculus and Hyacinth are just a few to name as favourites. Many Spring flowering bulbs have fragrance and when in pots can be placed in the home once flowering.

As a general rule when planting bulbs you cover the bulb with soil to a depth that is the same size as the bulb. Bulbs like plenty of fertiliser during their growing period and Patio Magic is ideal to use in both pots and gardens.

Q. Where I live the ground is quite firm. I want to plant some small shrubs near an existing tree, what would you recommend?

A. When planting in and around existing trees, soil preparation is critical for the success of your new plants. Nutrition and moisture are generally in short supply around advanced trees.

Moisture retention products can be added to soils improving moisture retention. Organic composts and manures, as well as regularly adding appropriate fertiliser will help ensure success with your new plants.

Ensure when selecting plants for under trees that they are suitable for full shade or filtered light, due to the canopy of existing trees.

Photo and tips re-cleaning pond kindly supplied by Richard Bell

To achieve clear water, adding oxygenating aquatic plants is beneficial.

Oxygenators such as Vallisneria grow under the water surface and do an amazing job in improving water clarity. These plants feed off nutrients in the water therefore starving out the algae and stopping it in its tracks.

Using surface covering aquatic plants to block out the sun also helps to avoid algae. Aim to cover around two thirds of the ponds surface with Water Lilies and other aquatic plants over Spring/Summer. One Water Lily will cover approximately one square metre of surface area and adding two or three other aquatic plants per water lily is a simple guide to go by for a good balance.

We also recommend using “Splosht” as a natural beneficial bacteria that eats away at fish waste and sludge at the bottom of ponds. This non-toxic product is safe for fish and pets drinking out of ponds and will greatly help in removing algae.

Q. Is this the best time to plant fruit trees, or could you tell me what sort of trees I should be planting in Autumn?

A. New season’s citrus trees have arrived for Autumn and this is the perfect time to plant them while the soil is warm. Along with Autumn rains, warm soil temperatures root growth on your new plant will establish quickly. Other pot grown fruits and berries can be planted from Autumn to Christmas.

Deciduous bareroot fruit trees are only available in Winter and must be planted during this period.

Autumn is perfect to plant anything in your garden from seeds, flower and vegetable seedlings, trees and shrubs, and of course, new lawns.

Hope this information is helpful.

Craig

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thelifestyle spring 2014

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RACING & RELAXATION at STONY CREEK Chris West

As the home of thoroughbred racing in South Gippsland, the picturesque Stony Creek racecourse holds a unique place on the Victorian country racing landscape.

“Geographically, we’re the only racecourse left on the professional circuit in the region, so we see ourselves as important to the industry,” says Stony Creek Racing Club CEO, Terry Grace.

coinciding with holiday periods. The Club’s premier race day is the Stony Creek Cup fixture, which has become an established annual tradition on the Sunday of the Labour Day long weekend in March. The meeting shares its date on the calendar with Echuca, ensuring there is no clash with any racing elsewhere in Gippsland or the Melbourne metropolitan area on that day.

Kent returned with the gallant gelding last year seeking a remarkable Cup hat-trick, but with Mertens sidelined by injury, the ride went to Brad Rawiller. Second King defended his crown bravely, but his reign at Stony Creek was over as he finished fourth behind Ali Royal.

In addition to great racing on the track, Cup Day at Stony Creek has much to offer off the track.

“The nearest professional clubs are at Moe and Traralgon, while Woolamai is the closest picnic club, followed by Drouin.”

Racing has taken place at Stony Creek racecourse for over 100 years, initially on an amateur basis, and later professionally under the auspices of the Stony Creek Racing Club for more than the past 50 years.

The Club was allocated five race meetings in the current 2014/2015 season, a number that increased to six with the addition of a fixture on 27th January that was transferred from Moe due to its track not being ready following renovations.

Stony Creek’s race days are scheduled during the Summer and Autumn months, with most

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Last year it was Robbie Laing who combined with veteran jockey Darren Gauci to triumph with Ali Royal in the $70,000 feature event over 2,100 metres. In 2012 and 2013, Michael Kent saddled up Second King to successive wins in the Cup. On both occasions, Second King was ridden by Peter Mertens.

“The Cup meeting is a big social occasion,” says Terry.

Cranbourne trainers are invariably strong supporters of race meetings at Stony Creek, being happy to make the easy journey down the South Gippsland Highway. In recent years, the Stony Creek Cup has been dominated by Cranbourne-based trainers.

“We always aim to make our race days an enjoyable, entertaining experience and we pride ourselves on being a family-oriented Club,” he adds.

Children aged 17 and under who are accompanied by an adult are admitted free on Cup Day, as they are at all Stony Creek meetings.

Kids attending the Cup meeting on Sunday, 8th March will enjoy Stony Creek’s permanent playground, plus the addition of a jumping castle and face painting.

Fashions on the Field on the front lawn adds a glamorous element to Cup Day, with competitions being planned for ladies, gentlemen and couples.

the racecourse’s popular Shade Sail provides patrons with additional protection from the sun.

arrange for their members to receive a reduced admission cost.”

The Cup meeting in March mainly attracts local people from around South Gippsland and some holiday makers from the beach areas. Buses will be provided from a number of nearby towns, including Leongatha, Wonthaggi and Inverloch.

The Stony Creek Racing Club is always happy to accommodate and welcome new Members and sponsors at any time.

The Club is also reporting an excellent response to the range of hospitality packages available for this year’s Cup meeting. At the time of writing, it had received 80 bookings for options ranging from simple umbrella packages through to large marquees.

The current season marks Terry’s first year in the role of CEO and he has been enjoying the challenge.

After relocating from Melbourne to Inverloch with his wife Kathy seven years ago, Terry kept busy by opting mainly for voluntary work in the local community, including a period on the Stony Creek Racing Club’s Marketing Committee.

“All our packages are still available and we can take bookings up to a week before the raceday,” Terry advises.

The Cup meeting at Stony Creek is programmed within the period of Country Racing Victoria’s “Relaxed Racing” promotion. As a result, a special Relaxed Racing hospitality package has been developed to create a perfect way to enjoy the Cup meeting at Stony Creek.

“It is recommended that people contact the Club or monitor our website for full details on the services provided for Cup Day,” Terry says.

As a Club, Stony Creek likes to devise themes for its race days and honour people who have contributed to its success.

For just $50, the package includes Admission for two adults and a delicious gourmet hamper loaded with sandwiches, fresh fruit, Muesli Bars and non-alcoholic drinks for two people, plus a picnic rug, cooler bag and a mini drinks/picnic table.

“For instance, at our meeting on 27th December we recognised one of our Club Members who had reached 100 years of age and at the transferred meeting on 27th January we acknowledged our Past President and Club Doctor of 50 years, Michael Bourke,” Terry explains.

The Club is budgeting for a crowd of 2,500 or over for the Cup meeting this year.

“We had 2,000 people attend our meeting on 27th December and 1,500 to Ladies Day on 5th January. The track and our facilities handle crowds in this range easily,” Terry states.

Public infrastructure and amenities at Stony Creek are modern and clean. On hot days,

“We are starting to offer annual memberships for 2015/2016 which also include the remainder of this season as a bonus at no additional cost,” Terry says.

Following the Stony Creek Cup meeting, the Club has one remaining fixture this season to be held on 7th April, which is Easter Tuesday.

“This meeting is being themed as our Community Race Day,” Terry notes.

“We are inviting community groups and notfor-profit organisations to contact us and we’ll

His interest in racing spans many years. As an owner, he has had shares in nine horses and all managed to win at least one race.

“The last one Another Cat won five races, including a win at Stony Creek in 2006, and was placed in the city,” Terry says.

When the Stony Creek Racing Club’s previous CEO, Ralph Gallagher retired last year, Terry successfully applied for the position. He brings considerable administrative management skills and experience formed over a 37-year career at Ford in Melbourne.

Terry acknowledges the support and assistance he has received from his predecessor Gallagher, along with the Club’s Business Manager, Sarah Wolf and Track Manager, Trent Luckhurst.

“Ralph is always just a phone call away and his experience has helped me to settle into the role,” Terry comments.

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STONY CREEK CUP DAY GUIDE

STONY CREEK CUP WINNERS 2014 Ali Vital

2013 Second King 2012 Second King 2011 Ma Shang 2010 Bitofado 2009 Escape Artist 2008 Stay All Day 2007 Our Bahare 2006 Aqualine 2005 Davidoff 2004 Royal Rule 2003 Jangling Jack 2002 Tariama 2001 Parisam 2000 Red Bustaan 1999 Hi Aims 1998 Skytalk 1997 Deal Us In 1996 Sergeant Pepper 1995 Unsolved 1994 Grass Valley 1993 Tawgantic 1992 Helix Gold 1991 Clam's Comet 1990 Raft Boy 1989 Favoured Duke 1988 Barry's Gold 1987 Frank Pledge 1986 Hollow Victory 1985 Blue Prelate 1984 What A Secret 1983 Teakwood 1982 Autacious 1981 Sovereign Blaze 1980 Ancient Times 1979 Hoofbeat 1978 Make Mine Brandy 1977 Nichochat 1976 Conscript 1975 Better Coast 1974 Crucial 1973 Jalna Park 1972 Sir Rye 1971 Dark Suit 1970 Divider 1969 The Shot 1968 Byronic 1967 Sugarmagundi 1966 Leeuwarden 1965 Meeting Abandoned 1964 Tradlea

“I am also fortunate to have Sarah and Trent at my side. Sarah has been here for five years and knows the ins and outs of organising a race meeting. Trent also does a terrific job. He has presented the track in excellent condition at every meeting, which helps us to get support from trainers.”

As a racing venue, Stony Creek regularly creates more than its share of memorable moments. Just recently at the Ladies Day meeting in January, jockey Ryan Maloney rode five winners, an outstanding feat that ensured his best ever day in the saddle.

But it would be hard to beat the excitement and worldwide interest created by the famous triple dead heat at Stony Creek on 28th January, 1987 when the judge could not separate Chesterfield, First Seal and Mr Spectre in the Rod Carmichael Handicap. It was only the third triple dead heat recorded in Australian racing history, following previous occurrences at Flemington in 1956 and Townsville in 1985.

News helicopters arrived at Stony Creek racecourse within an hour of the triple dead heat and the photo was published around the globe. In the immediate confusion following the race, the Chairman of the Club at the time, Alan Bell posed a question to local racing stalwart Colin Carmichael, whose family sponsored the race.

“What do we do now?” he asked.

“I don’t know what you have to do, but I’ve got to find two more trophies,” Carmichael famously replied.

While it is long odds that you’ll see another triple dead heat if you attend the upcoming Stony Creek Cup meeting, it’s a good bet that you’ll experience an enjoyable and relaxing day at the track with something for everyone from kids to adults.

Alma

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Date Sunday, 8th March 2015 Main race $70,000 Stony Creek Cup

2,100 metres Admission $20 Adults

$17 Seniors card holders

$15 Concession card holders

Children 17 years and under

(accompanied by a supervising

adult) - FREE Entertainment Fashions on the Field competition

Children’s playground

Jumping castle, face painting Hospitality Packages Relaxed Racing Lawn Pass - $50 Package includes racecourse admission for 2 adults and gourmet hamper with sandwiches for 2 people, 2 x Ahern’s fresh fruit, 2 x Carmen’s Muesli Bar, 2 x nonalcoholic drinks, picnic rug, cooler bag and mini drinks/ picnic table.

Umbrella package - from $170 Package includes umbrella, table, 8 chairs, 8 racebooks and 8 wristbands to gain entry to the secured hospitality village. Note: package price does not include racecourse admission or food and beverages, which are available from the Club on a pre-order basis.

Mini Marquee package - from $240 Package includes 3x3 Marquee, table, 8 chairs, 8 racebooks, 8 wristbands to gain entry to the secured hospitality village. Note: package price does not include racecourse admission or food and beverages, which are available from the Club on a pre-order basis.

Entertainers Delight Marquee package - from $360 Package includes Marquee, umbrella, 2 tables, 16 chairs, 16 racebooks and 16 wristbands to gain entry to the secured hospitality village. Note: package price does not include racecourse admission or food and beverages, which are available from the Club on a pre-order basis.

Party Marquee - from $430 Package includes 3x6 Marquee, table, 16 chairs, 16 racebooks, 16 wristbands to gain entry to the secured hospitality village. Note: package price does not include racecourse admission or food and beverages which are available from the Club on a pre-order basis.

Websites www.scrc.com.au www.countryracing.com.au For further information, please contact the Club on 5664 0099

STONY CREEK AUTUMN RACING CLUB DATES LABOUR DAY LONG WEEKEND Sunday, March 8th, 2015 STONY CREEK CUP DAY

The premier day's racing in South Gippsland!! It is the day to be seen at the races and a day to enjoy!

EASTER TUESDAY Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 COMMUNITY RACE DAY

Where the local South Gippsland Community are invited to get together for a great day's racing

23 Stony Creek-Dollar Road, Stony Creek VIC 3957 (Just 3kms past Meeniyan, heading east) For Hospitality options and other information

P. (03) 5664 0099 F. (03) 5664 7424 E. enquiries@scrc.com.au W. www.scrc.com.au

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

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Tel: 5672 1333 For Appointments and After Hours www.wonthaggimedical.com.au 104

thelifestyle autumn 2015

WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP IMPROVEMENTS IN HEALTH SERVICES IN THE DISTRICT

By John Turner B Soc. Welf., Master Intl & Community Development, MAAPM (Article Courtesy of Wonthaggi Medical Group, 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi)

When it comes to access to health services, Wonthaggi and its surrounding district is surprisingly well served. While the development of the local hospital to sub-regional status is a work in progress that will take some years to achieve, there have nevertheless been some significant improvements in health services in recent years and even in the last few weeks.

In 2010/11 the Wonthaggi Medical Group’s major new facility was opened and this has enabled the practice to attract more general practitioners to work in Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Grantville.

The Wonthaggi Medical Group has since made further investment in developing a practice in Grantville and that development is continuing. There has also been a significant increase in both the number and variety of specialists coming to the area and the frequency with which they provide their services.

To my knowledge, Bass Coast residents now have access in Wonthaggi to the following services: - Audiology, Bone Densitometry, Cardiology, Colorectal Surgery, Dermatology, Dietician, Diabetes Education, Ear Nose and Throat Specialist, General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, Obstetrics, Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, Physician, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Clinical Psychology, Urology and Vascular Surgery. Many of these services are available at the Wonthaggi Medical Group's premises at 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi.

So how has this been achieved? In large measure this has been the result of the ongoing cooperation that exists between Bass Coast Health and the Wonthaggi Medical Group,

which has played a pivotal role in attracting and retaining services. It also reflects the strong relationships that both Wonthaggi Medical Group and Bass Coast Health have with other health groups such as Peninsular Health and Monash. Other providers too have had the initiative to invest in the provision of specialist rooms and this has also encouraged other specialists into the area. Providers such as Bass Coast Eye Centre and Cardiologist, John Counsell who has opened up rooms here.

Some specialists were originally encouraged by Wonthaggi Medical Group to come to the area and have since established themselves in other premises e.g. Dermatologist, Professor Rodney Sinclair.

these relationships are in terms of securing these services for the area.

In just the last few months the following providers have begun new visiting or colocated services at 42 Murray Street: Ms Anna Manolopoulos, Orthopaedic Surgeon; Mr Justin Jedynak, Vascular Surgeon; Dr Jamie Layland, Cardiologist; Dr Colin Sabau, Gynaecologist.

In addition, Dr Chris Smith, Paediatrician and Dr Anita Clarke, Urologist have relocated to the 42 Murray Street premises. Bass Coast Health can now boast three General Surgeons (Mr Rado Andric, Mr Kostas Syrrakos and Mr Gordon Arthur) and two orthopaedic surgeons (Mr Rodney Richardson and Ms Anna Manolopoulos)

Overall, Wonthaggi does fare better than most rural towns of its size when it comes to access to services; however from a regional viewpoint the communities of Bass Coast Shire and South Gippsland Shire are less well served than other regional communities such as the Latrobe Valley community with its Regional Hospital and extensive community services.

There are some supporting services such as X-Ray, Pathology, Diabetes Education and Dietician that are now available at both the Wonthaggi Medical Group premises and Bass Coast Health making it more convenient for patients. In addition the range of allied health services available in the area both as private providers and from Bass Coast Health is extensive. This is not to say that there are not significant service gaps; two that immediately come to mind are the paucity in mental health services, specifically psychiatry and also oncology (cancer treatment).

The anaesthetics support and the postoperative after-care provided by Wonthaggi Medical Group has enabled specialists to have the confidence to provide their specialist procedures at Wonthaggi on a visiting basis in the knowledge that their patients will be well cared for by hospital staff and local doctors.

It cannot be stressed enough how important

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The historic The Blue Duck Inn is renowned for its wholesome local food and wines served in the friendly atmosphere of a traditional country pub, by the open fires or relaxing on the veranda overlooking the Cobungra River.

The Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday – and for all public and school holidays.

The Duck offers an A la Carte menu, with a 400gm prime scotch steak, being its signature dish.

The Duck also offers accommodation in six 2 bedroom self-contained cabins.

Purely chill out with a drink by the river, read a book on the lawns or experience the pleasures of outdoor activities: • Fly-fishing | Trout Fishing • Horseriding • Bushwalking • Skiing

• Swimming • Mountain biking • Bird-watching The great alpine circuit offers motorcycle enthusiasts sweeping bends, numerous corners and mountain views.

The Loop takes in Mount Beauty, Bogong, Falls Creek, The Blue Duck Inn at Anglers Rest, Omeo, Dinner Plain, Hotham Heights, Harrietville and Bright.

Hosts: Lana Antony & Michael Mullins Omeo Highway, Anglers Rest, Vic 3898 Tel: (03) 5159 7220 Em: lana@blueduckinn.com.au www.blueduckinn.com.au

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Gold Fever Gold in pan

Prospecting with

Richard Darby On a very pleasant day at Swifts Creek, a small township near Omeo in East Gippsland, I caught up with local Richard Darby. Known to family and friends as “Darby”. I was in for the treat of my life, something people dream about, fight about, even known to kill for, but on this occasion it was a step, not back in time, but a chance towards seeing some GOLD! Yes, that one tangible item we all want but most of us can’t have, is GOLD. Richard Darby began his gold prospecting days at Warrandyte, a small town camped on the banks of the Yarra River. He moved to Swifts Creek/ Casilis in 1977. He has become a local icon there in Swifts Creek and as well as managing cosy cottage accommodation at The Miners Cottages with his devoted wife Lyn in Cassilis; they continue to lead enriching lives.

Darby with his pelican pick

Darby’s 4WD at 664m above sea level

Richard and Lyn have been together for 49 years and in that time they have had three children, Suzanne, Jason and Glenn.

Since 1988 and up until recently, Richard was the owner of the Swifts Creek General Store, and having kept it in the family, the store is now managed by his son Jason.

I was lucky enough to spend a few hours with Richard touring his land in his trusty 4WD, and

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I say trusty, as we climbed some rather steep hills over the kind of terrain that your Kingswood would struggle with.

Of course, I was eager to see gold, and I wasn’t disappointed. There was gold, not your nugget variety but veins of alluvial gold between layers of rock that had to be pried apart, then crushed, separated and as the images show, sifting and resifting and at times a painstaking process, but nonetheless worthwhile to find pure unadulterated gold.

Darby has great plans and at 69 years of age, he is as fit as anyone I have seen, and he knows what he is doing; he is well organised, has the necessary equipment to locate the gold – after all he is a gold prospector; and furthermore a very good one.

Let’s allow the pictures to tell the story.

We visited Cassilis in the previous edition of the magazine and now we have visited a real gold mining area that is active; and who knows what the next chapter will bring……..Watch this space!

Doug Pell

Entrance to gold mine

Darby inside gold mine pointing out gold

Drill

Richard & Lyn Darby

Darby crushing rocks Sheep at top of hill

Inside gold mine – seams of gold in rock

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Nuggets of quartz with gold specks

Gold Fever View at Cassilis

Part of terrain

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Gold

Darby with crusher and generator

The isMiners Cottages a Home Away from Home

Local Attractions

Mt Markey Winery | Cassilis Goldfields | Tambo Valley Golf Course | Swifts Creek Pool Great Alpine Gallery | Mt Hotham

5 kms from Swifts Creek on the Cassilis Road

Free WiFi is also available in all cottages.

Air conditioning cools in summer and a Coonara heater warms in winter.

Fully self-contained with lots of extras including linen, towels, hairdryer, washing machine, TV/DVD and 2 single bunks plus master bedroom.

The region is an angler’s, hiker’s and sightseer’s delight.

Your Hosts Lyn & Richard Darby

The MinersCottages Cassilis Road, Swifts Creek, 3896 For further information, tariffs and bookings telephone Tel: (03) 5159 4205 or AH (03) 5159 4351 Fax: (03) 5159 4205

www.omeoregion.com.au/minerscottages

Ally McManus Nestled in behind a busy strip of shops in Orbost lies the Snowy River Historic Bakery, home to some of the most unique wood fired goods in East Gippsland. It really is the small town’s best-kept secret, hidden to any tourist strolling down the main road.

One summer morning I curiously wander into the premises to test out the famously great coffee and food that I hadn’t stopped hearing about. And I sure wasn’t disappointed.

The Snowy River Historic Bakery is an industrial style rustic bakery with fair trade organic coffee and wood fired cuisine. They make everything from scratch with organic sourdough and cook it in their incredibly famous and scorching hot wood fired oven.

Their meals include an impressive range of pizzas, calzones, all sorts of bread loaves and rolls, along with a few staple café favourites such as eggs on toast, omelettes and toasted muesli (wood fired of course).

When I secure my interview with 43-year-old Eric Kowalewski who is part owner of the business, I expect it will be over some sort of hot or cold beverage in the bakery. Think again. He throws his tea towel over his shoulder and takes me on an adventure down the back roads of Orbost, to the one and only Orbost Club Hotel.

After a shot of Jameson Irish whiskey and a cider in his hand, (his regular beverages at 3pm and put on his personal tab), we head out into

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the beer garden where the birds are chirping for a chat about the business.

With over 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, the Polish business owner was born and bred in Pennsylvania and moved to Australia 22 years ago. He sure knew a thing or two about running a successful bakery when he relocated to East Gippsland for the job.

When I ask Eric what bought him to Orbost in the first place, as he’s clearly not a local, he

answers the question in two simple words.

“The oven.” Steven Guinane is a former colleague of Eric, and is now his current business partner at the bakery.

Last year was when it all began for the Snowy River Historic Bakery. Steve called Eric one day, saying he must move down and run a wood fired bakery with him after purchasing the business with no chef. Subsequently, they opened up the bakery together in September 2014.

Eric’s experience in both cafes and restaurants across Victoria is very impressive, from running a café in Rye to a pizza joint in Abbotsford.

So it only seemed like a perfect fit when Eric was asked to make pizzas at the bakery in the famous oven.

“Out of everything I’ve done, pizza is the most gratifying, it’s something you can make with love,” he tells me. “Rather than compose a dish on a plate and bring all your elements together – you actually have to have a vision of what it should look like before it goes in the oven – because you can’t alter that once it comes out.

Pizza just makes people happy, no other food quite compares to it.”

Eric created the menu to complement the oven perfectly, while Steve took over the coffee side, given he is a barista by trade. They use Four Rascals coffee and take pride in every cup they serve. And I could honestly tell that was the case before I decided to cover the story for Gippsland the Lifestyle Magazine.

I was impressed as a customer, before I was impressed as a journalist.

The bakery is very ‘rock and roll’, both for a bakery and for Orbost. But that’s what happens when you take a set of business owners from other parts of the world and put them into a tiny country town. They put their stamp on the place.

The oven is clearly the most defining feature of the bakery. Eric shows me the scorcher with much excitement after the pub, while warning me of its incredibly high temperature. It is 90-years-old; larger than I could have expected, and I learn it has a bit of temperament to it.

While pizza is a breeze to make in there, bread is a whole other story.

“All I need is a hotspot to make pizza,” Eric tells me, “but because it’s a wood fired oven and it’s so big, there is no consistent temperature in any one spot. Pat (the baker) has to shuffle bread around in there at different temperatures and at different times to produce what comes out.”

bakery, along with Hayden from Bruthen Quality Butchers. Eric is open to using anything from his suppliers in the bakery, “I tell them if they can kill it, catch it or grow it – I want it.” His only policy is using what’s good, fresh and local, “anyone that’s interested in producing something quality.”

Despite that it is a ‘bakery’, thus traditionally open for breakfast and lunch; their pizzas are proving quite popular for dinner every night.

As a result of this, in the near future they’re planning to license the premises.

Making pizza also requires a much higher temperature than making bread, so Eric makes pizzas during the day at more than 400 degrees, while Pat makes bread during the night at 200 degrees or less. This also means that bread can only be baked once a week and their selling day is Saturday.

Their dough, making everything from pizza and calzones to loaves of bread and rolls is 100 per cent sourdough. “This is what people like,” Eric tells me when I ask why solely sourdough. Eric and Pat work in a sharing environment with the dough, and take tricks and tips from each other’s recipes.

Eric adores the oven – “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t,” he says. “To work on a piece of history like that, it’s like driving a Ferrari, you can’t say no to an opportunity and a challenge like that.” There’s only about five or six ovens like the Snowy River Historic Bakery operating in Victoria, so it really is a unique experience and asset for the town.

“I try to use as much local stuff as I can,” Eric says, mentioning Morrisons Meat Shop and Orbost King Fruit just down the road from the

At the moment, whatever meat they can get on the day Eric turns into a plated feast that night or a creative concoction on a pizza. This never fails to bring the bakery to its 38-person capacity. They’re also planning on launching a set menu on Sunday nights, one sitting at 6pm and the other at 8pm – using whatever meat or fish is fresh from the suppliers that day.

Their customer feedback has been outstanding, especially given their inconspicuous location off the main street that doesn’t even have an official address. They’re relying solely on word of mouth – which is how I came across the business – and it is honestly working wonders for the bakery.

Photos by Ally McManus

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Fyodor Krasniy Presenter

HIGHLIGHTS OF GEEKFEST HELD ON SATURDAY 17 JANUARY 2015 AT COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM

Table Top Games

Winner of Best Children's Costume

An inclusive, supportive and all-ages event, GeekFest featured the best of geek culture – from comics to cosplay, steampunk to superheroes and the whole scope of gaming culture.

Winner of Best Cosplay

GeekFest provided events such as demonstration and participation wargames, role-playing sessions and a cosplay contest.

Held at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum in Korumburra on January 17th, 2015, the event took place in this uniquely atmospheric location.

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Tayla Kershaw Author

Craig Fison Presenter

Winner Best Steampunk Gothic with Steampunk Organiser Lizzy Algar

Winner of Best Adult Costume

Kick Ass Costume

Minecraft

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Getting Your Business Found On Google I CAN'T FIND MY BUSINESS ON GOOGLE! Being a Google Partner agency, we deal with Google directly in matters relating to our customers' best interests in the search engine sphere – be it search engine optimisation (SEO) for their websites, Google AdWords, or simply ensuring they can be found on Google Maps.

(And you'd be surprised how many businesses overlook this, but we'll come back to that.)

Engaging with Google means we get the proverbial 'inside straight' on best practices regarding promotion of businesses on the World's most popular search engine. Given that Google is responsible for 95% of the search engine market in Australia, it has become practically synonymous with 'search engine' locally. To Google something has become part of modern vernacular, and Image Direct requires several boxes to be ticked by Google in order to gain the Google Partner badge.

GOOGLE MAPS The best place to start is by making a submission to Google Maps. This is the easiest way to generate a presence on Google with a minimum of effort – all you need is a Google account. Simply go to: http://www.google.com/mapmaker select 'Add a Place', place the marker on the map where appropriate, fill out the necessary details, and voilà! Bear in mind, the listing will need to be double-checked by a Google representative, but this is an easy process to navigate.

Getting your office or shopfront placed on Google Maps is of no use, however, if you don't

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have a website for your business – and this is where Image Direct enters the picture. We have built 100's of websites for local businesses over the years, whilst ensuring we keep abreast of technological change. Making sure client websites are mobile responsive is a priority concern of ours, as the upward trend for mobile shopping shows no sign of diminishing.

WHAT IS MOBILE RESPONSIVE? - IS IT MOBILE FRIENDLY? This means your website will 'respond' to the browser which is looking at it. If your website detects a mobile phone browser it should cut down the display for easy viewing on the device and do so automatically. This is mobile responsiveness.

DOWN RANKED (NOT RANKING HIGH ENOUGH IN GOOGLE) Google is getting serious about this folks.

If your website is not configured for mobile smartphones Google is not going to rank you as well as before. It's old news. Check out the following official advice from Google themselves: http://bit.ly/1KHARyt

OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS

The inner workings of Google's Algorithm is one of the best kept Commercial secrets on the Planet. Those emails and phone calls everyone gets about guaranteed placement on the front page of Google are correct but usually only for one small element of your business and only for a short period of time.

The following is a short list of things to take into account in order to get found on Google on a longer term basis: 1.

Decide on what you want to get found for.

You won't come up on the first page of Google for every area of your business.

You need to list each main area of the business as primary keywords and then develop these further. We normally aim for 3-7 areas maximum with our clients and call this 'theming'.

2. You MUST have a well built website that has passed all World Standard coding requirements.

3. The page structure of your website should be laid out corresponding to the 'themes' of your business.

4. Further to number 3, dedicate one 'theme' to one page. Secondary 'themes' get their own page as well.

5.

Content Management Systems: (CMS) Please don't get overwhelmed by all this.

Start simple and get sophisticated. Most business owners are time poor. Start with just the main themes and then add more pages later. With a CMS such as WordPress this is very easy to do.

6.

Add more content to your website so that fresh, up-to-date and relevant information is available to your audience. Again start simple and then get sophisticated.

7.

Get your web developer to set you up with a Google Webmaster Tools account. It's free and will give your website a boost when used properly.

What clients don't see, though, is the work done to ensure that Google 'reads' a website in the correct manner in order to display the best search results possible. Search engine optimisation is something of a niche specialisation, but when applied correctly, it can pay dividends for a business looking to place in that prime position: at the top of Google search results for their chosen areas. Doing so, though, requires attention to detail; a thorough understanding of how and why the client wants to be found, and above all, content. Google absolutely loves new content, and if you can keep your website updated frequently, Google will thank you for it.

Having a Google Maps listing with an SEOfriendly, content-rich website is, at bare minimum, enough to get you found on Google.

The next step, though, is to visibly tie the two together with the Google My Business suite, creating a verified presence on Google. And if you want to take it even further, Google AdWords will enlarge your presence on Google via the realm of pay-per-click advertising.

But these are topics for coming issues!

Jim Radford

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 in Gippsland for the past 7 years.

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r

. Bee Ian W

FOSTER UNCOVERED

Nestled alongside more high profile artistic hubs such as Fish Creek and Meeniyan, the township of Foster often gets overlooked when it comes to artistic talent. Search beyond this small country town’s commercial hub and there lies a rich underbelly of musical activity.

Meeniyan has placed South Gippsland well and truly on the music map with concerts at the Meeniyan Hall, attracting many well known artists from both Australia and Overseas. These concerts have helped feature South Gippsland and now adjoining towns like Fish Creek, Foster and Toora have received a flow-on effect with an appetite for more things musical. It has also helped promote this beautiful and tranquil part of Victoria with many dissatisfied city folk who are moving here in droves and bringing with them their city appetites for arts and culture.

Up until recently there were two venues in Foster, as well as the local hotel and golf club staging music. It was the unfortunate closing of one of the towns venues that has highlighted the passion and emotion of the Foster residents towards music, with letters flooding the local paper with headlines like “The Day the Music Died’’. It has left local musicians mystified but unrepentant as collectively and individually they continue their artistic pursuits in lounge rooms, schools, open stages, shop fronts and even in old factories.

Talking to the town’s proud denizens and its growing band of musical identities it is clear that Foster offers so much more than just a gateway to the beautiful Prom. The rich diversity of the existing artistic talent, coupled with a steady influx of ex-Melbourne musicians, is ensuring the Arts and music scene is fast becoming an integral part of the community, beyond the tourist trade.

IAN BEER

is a musician, songwriter and resident of South Gippsland.

His passion for music was seeded as a young man and has continued to develop over the years. His songwriting started in his early teens, which led to performing in original bands in the burgeoning Melbourne Pub Rock Scene in the early 80’s. His music career then became his full time career, reviewing CDs for the Age newspaper, a small part of a media career that spanned 30 years with Fairfax Media.

His passion for music coupled with his business acumen lead him to create the Acoustic Café in Collingwood over 5 years. The Acoustic Café further enhanced his passion for all things musical and attracted many aspiring musicians from all corners of the globe to play at the hugely successful open mic nights.

Ian now plays acoustically, performing his own songs at venues across Gippsland and Melbourne. He is also a keen promoter of music for local Gippsland venues. Ian has recently started hosting a music program at Gippsland radio station 3MFM every Wednesday evening from 8pm called Song People, talking about his favourite songwriters and highlighting their songs.

SALLY

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Ian’s new column, Gippsland Grooves will keep readers abreast of all things musical in the Gippsland region and will appear quarterly in the Gippsland Lifestyle Magazine.

IAN BEER

The lure of securing the Old Butter Factory, wasn’t the only drawcard to move Garry from Inverloch to Foster, it was also his sister Sally a Foster resident, and a very talented musician and vocalist. “Sal is my sister in arms” he says - they share a family background full of song.

Prior to playing together in Foster, Sally used to join Garry over in Inverloch in a shed every Sunday where Garry was also playing in a 3-piece band at local bars. For some siblings it’s a catch up over the Sunday roast, but for these musical siblings a Sunday Jam! Garry’s father was an Irish tenor and he recalls finding his love of music through evenings spent around the piano with the family. His own music took shape at age 14, when he purchased a drum kit. “I drove everyone crazy and they kicked me out to a caravan out the back’’.

Armed with a couple of old records “I had a Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass record”, “I had a few other records, but this particular record taught me great syncopation’’ Garry shared his new sleeping quarters with a stereo, his drum kit and would play long into the night.

GARRY ELDRED BUTTER FACTORY BLUES….

Garry has immersed himself in music since childhood and the opportunity to live in the old Foster Butter Factory has laid rest his childhood dreams. ‘’Be careful what you wish for, because it might come true’’ he often muses.

Garry, like many foster residents, could see the potential in the old disused building and dreamt of playing his music within its lime-washed walls and vaulted ceilings. “I have always wanted this factory, it took me two years to talk the owner into it.” Now any Sunday afternoon, you will hear Garry and his fellow band mates pumping out some tasteful grooves. Venture inside, you will see Garry smiling from ear to ear, guitar in hand and harmonising with whoever else has turned up the for the regular Sunday Jam session.

From his caravan days, he gained more confidence and meeting up with fellow musicians he started playing more earnest songs from Bob Dylan through to Led Zeppelin.

It’s Garry’s love for harmony and being part of a group that has always inspired his own music. “It is amazing when 3 or 4 voices blend together.”

He describes his current style of music as “eclectic’’ he plays, blues, rock, folk, country, basically anything that he can share with fellow band members. ‘’I’ll try anything, songs from my old days right through to modern stuff.”

in an ensemble that most motivates this accomplished musician.

Garry finds local Foster musicians enjoy a genuine love for music. I have been inspired by local musicians who have led me into other things. “I am now reading charts for bass, I was always an ear player, never read music, so this is all new for me.’’

‘I’m currently playing with Munrose Hill Band and a Factory Band that evolves into different names as new musicians come on board.”

He is hoping that someone will soon buy the Rhythm Café in Foster and create a space for local bands to play. ‘’There is a lack of live music venues’’ and like many local musicians they are rehearsing and waiting for a space to play live!

You can hear the guys jam in the beautiful surrounds of the Foster Butter Factory every other Sunday and at the Foster Golf Club Open Mic on the last Sunday each month – which is hosted by local Foster band, The McCrackens.

Everyone is welcome and if you are musical, bring your instrument. Be prepared to be inspired and as Garry often says, be careful of what you wish for, it just might come true!

Starting off with drums, Garry is now proficient in guitar, mandolin, piano, bass and he used to teach harmonica. With so many strings to his bow, you would think Garry would be home alone multi-tracking his own recordings and playing all instruments, but it is playing

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guitar, which was purchased on a family holiday in central Australia.

Dog also plays with the Butter Factory musos, but his involvement goes back further than just the current Sunday music sessions. Dog recalls back in his 3-piece band days, “I played a talent quest with my band, and we lost to a couple of girls performing’’ - these girls just happened to be Sally and Sue, sisters of Garry, current tenant at the Butter Factory. So Dog and his band members at the time, did what any enterprising band would do…they hired the girls and Dog’s band became a 5-piece band overnight!

After a couple of years in Melbourne, Dog soon found a venue at the Bairs Hotel in Leongatha.

Starting off every second Thursday, he quickly teamed up with another local musician Ian McMullen, and together with a few other musical friends, kicked off their own gigs on Saturday nights. With a $3 door charge, they soon found themselves surrounded by 300 people rocking up – the start of Dog’s professional musical career.

GEOFFREY "DOG" SPARKES

Foster born and bred Geoffrey, better known around town as “Dog” - has been a huge part of the local Foster musical scene.

After the taste of actually being paid to do something he loved, Dog started up a wedding band, once more making a living off music. At licensed venues the bands guitarist, who was underage couldn’t play, so Dog had to vacate the drums and play guitar, which eventually transformed him into the band’s guitarist.

Dog (he inherited his name from a young family member who couldn’t pronounce Geoffrey and it came out more like Goofy) didn’t come from a musical family, so his entry into the magical world of music came via the radio, or wireless as Dog affectionately calls it. ‘’I used to listen to a local station 3UL along with some short wave stations.” An avid radio listener, along with emerging musical television programs, such as GTK, Dog started his appreciation for all things music.

After a few other local outfits, Dog headed north, as far as the Gold Coast. He tried the local music scene without much success but when he met with a local booking agent who suggested rather than just playing guitar and singing, try using backing tapes – a new world opened up! After all, this was the early nineties when sequencers were all the rage and the industry was flooded with one man bands, which were cheap to book and could entertain with the full sound of a band.

It wasn’t until 15, that Dog exchanged his finger tapping to songs to tapping on a drum kit in his first band. ‘’Never played them before, but someone had to play drums in a band’’, so at 16 - Dog started his music career, with a paid gig in a 3-piece rock band playing at Pearl Park.

It wasn’t long before Dog moved on from playing the back beat to Status Quo covers to reaching an affinity with singer-songwriters of the 70’s who were starting to emerge. Neil Young was one such artist which made a big impression on this local lad from Foster, so much so he took to

Dog’s trip up north lasted 3 months. En route home he purchased a sequencer in Canberra, a quantum leap into his very successful solo career as a one man band.

GEOFFREY “DOG’’ SPARKES ONE MAN BAND….

SALA SIAM Home Décor 34 Bear St, Inverloch Eric Swift 0402 712 707 Em: admin@salasiam.com.au Web: www.salasiam.com.au 122

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transport is on hand, it is difficult for country residents to find their way home after shows in towns such as Foster.

As much as Dog has tasted success and been able to make a living off something he enjoys, he still just loves playing, rather than being paid to play. ‘’Getting paid is the just a bonus”. ‘’I don’t think of entertaining, I am just playing for myself when I’m on stage”. He recalls one particular gig when he was in his own world playing and he looked up at the crowd and apologised.

“Sorry I lost myself, I forgot you were all here.”

These days Dog is a keen Sunday Jam session member at the Butter Factory. He would love nothing more than to be in a successful band, and he enjoys playing in an ensemble. However he wonders if this could ever be financially viable. He still plays his one-man band gigs in and around Foster but the joy of playing with other musicians is where’s he’s at!

And Dog’s advice to younger up and coming local musicians is: “Be grounded, and remember where you come from.” Two things that this local musician not only advises, but has lived by throughout his long and successful musical career.

Since 1993 Dog has been successfully gigging and only over the last three years has he subsidised his income with working at the local newsagent, as work as a musician is getting harder to find. He believes ever since the strict drink driving laws, it has curbed the industry in rural towns. Unlike the cities, where public

OPEN Thursday to Sunday Thurs & Fri 10am – 5pm Sat & Sun 11am – 4pm Find us on Facebook

Ruby's Retro RETRO FURNITURE & COLLECTABLES

Whilst on your next trip to East Gippsland, why not call into Ruby's Retro, situated on the Princes Highway, halfway between Sale and Bairnsdale.

Our usual comment from our customers is: we drive past often, but today we have called in, and are amazed by the wonderful display and content of retro furniture and collectables. Ruby's will again have a stall at the Rosedale Retro Vintage Festival in the hall, on Sunday, 24th of May, look forward to seeing you all there.

This year in August I am having my first solo art exhibition, at the Briagolong Art Gallery. My art is influenced by retro designs of the 70's and 80's, from material to shapes of objects, and design from this era. Vibrant colours I love, and my two years of painting classes with Pat Waters, taught me the theory of colour mixing and its tonal application to my paintings.

PHIL WARNER ART EXHIBITION | August 22nd to September 20th at BRIAGOLONG ART GALLERY

Ruby's Retro RETRO FURNITURE & COLLECTABLES HOURS 10:00am to 5:30pm FRI, SAT & SUN (Or by Appointment other days) 3501 Princes Hwy, Call 5145 8280 or Mobile: 0418 274 440 Em: philponds@hotmail.com Munro, VIC 3862

or check out Ruby’s Retro on Facebook

ALI'S ART

SOME MORE PEOPLE

By Ali Fullard

Robert Logie - A Taste for Beef - Linocut

Robert Logie

These observations are recorded in stunning photographs and on richly painted canvases, using vibrant and dynamic brush strokes, which bring the characters of the Australian bush alive. The personalities staring out at us in a forthright manner, are “larger than life”, the viewer immediately engaging with the subject.

Many works depict the role and strength of the Australian women in their communities.

Artist - Robert Logie

Robert Logie - The Farmer and The Cocky Oil on Canvas

The art of storytelling has preoccupied artists since ancient times. Mankind has always felt the need to express and pass on knowledge in a visual form. Before the invention of printing, stories relating to a culture’s values, morals, beliefs or recording of everyday life, were illustrated by drawings or paintings on large surfaces such as natural features, walls of buildings or specially prepared surfaces.

Australia has a rich heritage of storytelling, shown in indigenous art and by artists living here since white settlement. Robert Logie, a practising artist from the small community of Reedy Flat, in East Gippsland, continues this tradition seen in Australian artists such as Arthur Boyd, William Dobell and Russell Drysdale. After a career teaching maths and physics, Robert began to travel Australia and the world,

His large linocut prints depicting the demise of the indigenous people of this region are overpowering in their attention to detail and poignant subject matter. At first glance these works appear comical but a chilling story unfolds as the observer views the work.

A favourite pastime when travelling is to take a bus out of a city or town and walk back, leaving himself open to encounters with those he meets.

Another trip is planned in 2015 to Tajikistan.

Robert’s works show that wherever we are, the human condition is what we share in common.

Robert says travelling energises him and makes him feel lucky to be part of humanity, a trait shown in his admirable works. Robert’s work can be viewed every day at his Mum’s pub, the Old Ensay Pub, Old Pub Road, Ensay.

Ph 03 51573291 or www.robertlogie.com

WHAT'S ON “Shakespeare On the River Festival” April 23rd to May 19th 2015 This fantastic annual festival showcases community, professional theatre and the broader arts scene.

“Digital Dreaming”, a Shakespeare inspired art exhibition and films will be shown at Segue Gallery and the Stratford Courthouse.

Find out more at stratfordshakespeare.com.au or www.stratfordcourthouse.com.au or Segue Café.

Yarram Courthouse Gallery “My Fibre” Andrea McCallum. March 5th to March 31st “Washed Up” a quirky activity by artists using the detritus of our society that washes up on our shores.

April 2nd to April 28th “Minatures In May” Group exhibition.

April 30th to May 26th Yarram Court House Gallery. Open 10am–4pm daily.

Closed Wednesdays.

Contact 03 51826553. www.yarramchgallery.blogspot.com Briagolong Art Gallery “Esther Jago Retrospective” February 28th to March 29th - Stunning watercolours.

“Genius Loci” - Freestone Printmakers.

This year’s project reveals artists’ notions of landscape and belonging through landscape to the sense of belonging in one's home to something quite inexplicable that only exists in the mind - all of which are quite valid and collectively will add up to a snapshot of our particular sense or spirit of place.

Exchange exhibition with Baw Baw Arts.

May 9th to June 7th Cnr Forbes and Avon Sts. Briagolong 3860.

Open: Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4 pm.

Contact 03 51 455 439 0427327494 Email: briagolongartgallery@gmail.com Gippsland Gallery Sale – Maffra Exhibition Space “Close to Home” March 5th to May 4th – Briagolong Artists.

“Gippsland Gullies” Ali Fullard (Yes! I am finally getting around to doing this!) Prints and drawings.

May 7th to 29th 150 Johnson St. Maffra Open: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am – 6pm.

Sat 10am – 12pm Ph. 03 51423372

“just enjoying watching” (as he puts it), people going about their daily business and interacting with each other.

Visiting clearing sales and community events in the Victorian High Country are a rich source of inspiration.

Robert Logie - Mrs Chester's Sick Budgie Oil on canvas

BRIAGOLONG ART GALLERY Cnr Forbes and Avon Streets, Briagolong 3860 Hours Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4 pm | Contact 03 51 455 439 or 0427 327 494 |

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Email briagolongartgallery@gmail.com

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY Monday to Friday 6am to 5.30pm Saturday 6.30am to 4.00pm Sunday Closed

for all your art supplies 31 Murray Street, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 1256

BRIAGOLONG CORNER COTTAGE

Modern spacious B&B has all the comforts, ideally located in the township and close to the many nearby attractions.

Bookings essential.

63 Forbes Street, Briagolong Vic 3860 Tel: 5145 5426 Mobile: 0417 737 709 Contact: Sally & Steve White

Like us on Facebook www.wix.com/briagolong3860/briagolong

Prints | Drawings | Watercolours | Mixed Media | Digital images | Original cards “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

Sweets and Book Store

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Wednesday to Sunday 11am – 6pm Closed Monday and Tuesday 57 Tyers Street, STRATFORD, Vic 3862 thelifestyle autumn 2015

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YOUR EVENTS GUIDE MARCH 2015

APRIL 2015 GALLERY EXHIBITION SALE THE ABSTRACT IMPULSE Date: Wed 18 March - Sun 19 April Location: Gippsland Art Gallery on

5142 3372 Entry FREE

SALE MUSIC FESTIVAL PICNIC ON THE GREEN Date: Sun 8 March Time: 11.00am – 8.00pm Location: Sale Botanic Gardens

FREE Family Event Contact: www.facebook.com/SaleMusicFestival INTERNATIONAL PARKS WEEK - BABY'S DAY OUT Date: Tue 10 March Time: 10.00am - 12.00noon Location: Sale Botanic Gardens

Entry FREE SMALL BUSINESS CLINICS PROGRAM Date: Tue 10 March Time: 10.30am Location: Wonthaggi Contact: Emilie Barkley on 1300 226 278 emilie.barkley@basscoast.vic.gov.au SALE TO SEA DISABILITY KAYAK CHALLANGE Date: Wed 11 March - Saturday 14 March Location: Port of Sale Contact: Andrew Bedggood on 0407 471 539 bedgie@dodo.com.au INTERNATIONAL PARKS WEEK - CYCLE SALE Date: Wed 11 March Time: 9.30am Location: Port of Sale Contact: Wellington Shire Council - Parks Services

on 1300 366 244 liam.cole@wellington.vic.gov.au KEEPING KIDS ON TRACK FUN RUN FESTIVAL Date: Sat 14 March Time: 8.00am Location: Kilcunda Contact: Louise O'Keefe on 0421 969 360 louise@dcsi.net.au FRIENDS OF TOORA PEAR ORCHARD PARTY Date: Sun 15 March Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm Location: Mill Street, Toora Contact: 0428 864 520 WOMEN WORDS ART MUSIC Date: Sun 15 March Location: Phillip Island Contact: Catherine Robinson on 0401 527 099 womenwordsartmusic@gmail.com

KORUMBURRA WORKING HORSE & TRACTOR RALLY Date: Sat 21 March – Sun 22 March Time: 10.00am onwards Location: South Gippsland Hwy, Nyora Contact: Peter Xuereb/Melanie Durkin on

0438 574 216 or 0412 051 740 ROTARY CLUB OF MAFFRA MARDIS GRAS Date: Sat 21 March Time: The street parade starts at 6.00pm Location: Johnson Street, Maffra Contact: Julie Anderson or Brian Gray on

0447 976 402 or 0408 132 956

WONTHAGGI HUMAN POWERED GRAND PRIX Date: Sat 21 March Time: 11.00am Location: Wonthaggi Contact: Ewan Cole on 5672 22570

ewancole@bigpond.com 2015 RIDE FOR THE ANIMALS Date: Sun 22 March Time: 8.00am - 3.00pm Location: Animal Aid Gippsland Contact: Megan Pritchard on 8756 1335 CITY OF SALE EISTEDDFOD Date: Fri 27 March - Sun 24 May Location: Sale Memorial Hall Contact: Emma-Lee Ross on 5144 1959 saleeisteddfod@hotmail.com GRANTVILLE PIRATE FESTIVAL Date: Sat 28 March Location: Maru Koala and Animal Park Contact: 5678 8548 KIDS ADVENTURE FESTIVAL - MT BAW BAW Date: Sat 28 March - Sun 29 March Location: Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort Contact: 5165 1136 2015 SOUTHERN GIPPSLAND SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL Date: Sun 29 March Time: 9.00am Location: Wonthaggi Contact: Roslyn Jenzen on 5951 3317 r.jenzen@basscoast.vic.gov.au

TARRA FESTIVAL Date: Fri 3 April - Mon 6 April Location: Yarram,Won Wron, Port Albert, Woodside,

Tarraville, Robertson's Beach Contact: Kim Hatton on

0434 242 567 tarrafestival@gmail.com 90 MILE BEACH SURF FISHING COMPETITION Date: Fri 3 April - Sun 5 April Location: 90 Mile Beach - Golden Beach Contact: 5146 3447 WALHALLA EASTER ART SHOW Date: Fri 3 April - Mon 6 April Location: Walhalla Mechanics Institute Hall Contact: 5127 8108 or 0409 048 469 EASTER FUN FESTIVAL - CHURCHILL ISLAND Date: Sat 4 April Time: 10.00am Location: Churchill Island Contact: 5951 2800 info@penguins.org.au CORONET BAY BEACH FAIR Date: Sat 4 April Time: 10.00am Location: Coronet Bay Contact: Greg Noakes on 0408 176 135 OMEO RODEO Date: Sat 4 April Time: 8.30am - 12.00am Contact: 5159 1420 2015 BAW BAW CHALLENGE Date: Sun 5 April Location: Western Park, Tarwin Street Warragul Contact: 8480 3000 vic.info@cycling.org.au SWIFTS CREEK PICNIC CUP Date: Sun 5 April Time: 11.00am - 12.00am Contact: 5159 1420 DINNER PLAIN GEEBUNG POLO Date: Sun 5 April Time: 10.00am - 12.00am Contact: Rob and Josie robandjosie@yahoo.com.au TINAMBA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL Date: Sun 12 April Time: 11.00am - 4.00pm Location: Main Street, Tinamba Contact: Sarah Gray on 0427 011 966 DROUIN SWAP MEET AND SHOW 'N SHINE Date: Sun 12 April Location: Lardner Park Contact: 0418 595 540 GOWNS THROUGH THE DECADES Date: Thur 16 April - Sun 19 April Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Location: Heyfield War Memorial Hall Contact: Louise Hill-Coleman on 5148 2093

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AUTUMNevents

must must see must go do

MAY 2015

JUNE 2015

CREATIVE GIPPSLAND GIPPSLAND ARTS FESTIVAL Date: Fri 1 May - Sun 31 May Location: Venues across Gippsland, Warragul Contact: Karen Whitaker-Taylor Baw Baw Shire on

5624 2407 or 0407 637 721

BRIAGOLONG FILM FESTIVAL Date: Sat 5 June - Sun 7 June Location: Briagolong Mechanics Institute Hall Contact: Annette Short on 5145 5282

GIPPSLAND LAKES PADDLE CHALLENGE Date: Sat 2 May Time: 8.00am - 5.00pm Contact: 0417 154 055 or 0427 565 607 OPEN HOUSE DROUIN Discover Drouin’s best kept secret…See inside Drouin’s Historic buildings...Hear fascinating stories from the past Date: Sat 2 May – Sun 3 May Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm FREE ENTRY

12 of Drouin’s Unique Buildings Open

to Public Location: Croquet Club | Uniting Church

Royal Hotel Contact: Rhona Hendrick on 0419 556 682

METUNG FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Date: Mon 7 June Location: Metung Village Green Contact: 0400 460 137 info@metungfoodandwinefestival.com.au For more West Gippsland Events SEE PAGE 129 Autumn in West Gippsland

by Laurie Collins.

2015 PCAV STATE HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS Date: Sat 2 May - Sun 3 May Time: 8.00am - 4.00pm Location: Rosedale Recreation Reserve Contact: Julie Carstairs on 0427 090 649

2015 BAW BAW CHALLENGE 100 YEARS OF ANZAC ON PHILLIP ISLAND Date: Fri 17 April Time: 10.00am Location: Cowes Contact: Maxine Sando on 5952 1004 msando@pirsl.com.au VICTORIAN MOTOR RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS Date: Sat 18 April Time: 9.00am Location: Phillip Island Contact: Geoff Bull on

9803 3633 GREAT SONGS OF THE WAR YEARS Date: Thur 23 April Time: 11.00am Location: Esso BHP Billiton Wellington Ent. Centre

SALE MOTHER'S DAY CLASSIC Date: Sun 10 May Time: 8.00am onwards Location: Sale Botanic Gardens - Lake Guthridge Contact: Jenelle Wilkes on 0414 444 272 MIRBOO NORTH ARTY GRAS FESTIVAL Date: Fri 8 May – Sat 9 May Location: Various locations in Mirboo North HEYFIELD VINTAGE STEAM RALLY Date: Sat 16 May - Sun 17 May Location: Gordon Street Recreation Reserve Contact: 5148 0531 SHANNONS AUSTRALIAN MOTOR RACING NATIONALS Date: Sat 23 May Time: 9.00am Location: Phillip Island Contact: Geoff Bull on 9803 3633

SHAKESPEARE ON THE RIVER FESTIVAL Date: Thur 23 April – Sat 9 May Location: Stratford Contact: shakespeareontheriverfestival@gmail.com 100 YEARS OF ANZAC ANZAC DAY SERVICES COWES Date: Sat 25 April Time: 6.00am Location: Cowes Contact: Maxine Sando on 5952 1004 msando@pirsl.com.au SEASONS OF PAIN Date: Sat 25 April Location: Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort Contact: 5165 1136 events@mountbawbaw.com.au

SALE MUSIC FESTIVAL PICNIC ON THE GREEN

If you require your event to be promoted please email Gippsland the Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

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YOUR MARKET GUIDE TO AUTUMN BAIRNSDALE FARMERS’ MARKET

1st Saturday of every month – 8am-12noon Location Bairnsdale Secondary College Oval,

McKean Street Contact John 5156 9342 or Ian 5152 3698

BERWICK AKOONAH PARK MARKET

Every Sunday – 8am-1.30pm Location Akoonah Park, cnr High & Cardinia Sts, Berwick Contact Gary Maker (03) 9796 1455

BRIAGOLONG MAKERS MARKET

JOHNSONVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET 1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm Location Johnsonville Hall, Princes Highway Contact Perry 5156 4162

JUMBUNNA BUSH MARKET

1st Sunday of the month – 8.30am-1pm Location Public Hall, Cruickshanks Road Contact Dawn Wylie 5657 3253

KONGWAK MARKET

29th March – 9am-1pm Location Behind Riverstone Café Contact 5145 5260

Every Sunday – 10am-3pm No Market - 21 December Location Korumburra Road, Kongwak Contact Jane 0417 142 478

CALLIGNEE COMMUNITY MARKET

KOONWARRA FARMERS' MARKET

3rd Sunday of month – 8am-1pm October to May Location Callignee Hall Reserve Contact Lex 5147 3808

CHURCHILL ISLAND FARMERS’ MARKET 4th Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Visitors’ Centre on Churchill Island

off Phillip Island Contact Peter Arnold 5664 0096

COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM FARMERS’ MARKET

1st Saturday of the month – 8am-12.30pm Location Memorial Park off Koala Drive (Held in

adjoining Halls on wet days) Contact www.kfm.org.au

KOOWEE COMMUNITY MARKET

1st 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

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm 10am NEW CRAFT MARKET starting Saturday 11th April Location Coal Creek Community Park and Museum

Car Park, Silkstone Rd, Korumburra Contact 0459 629 000 - FREE Entry/Ample Parking

LAKES ENTRANCE SURF CLUB FORESHORE MARKET

COWES ISLAND CRAFT MARKET

LARDNER PARK 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 Graham 5952 5213

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 FARMERS’ MARKET

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Foster War Memorial Arts Centre

Main Street, Foster Contact Catherine McGlead 0407 543 371

1st Sunday of the month – 9am-3pm Location Near the Rotunda - Foreshore, Lakes Entrance Contact Tom Morris 0407 098 805 or 5153 1916 Sunday, 19 April – 9am-2pm Lardner Park, Burnt-Store Road, Drouin (Mel X912U8) Contact: 5626 1373

LATROBE COUNTRY MARKET

Every Sunday - 8.30am-1.30pm Latrobe Road, Morwell (near Holmes Road) Contact: 0407 532 957

LONGWARRY FIRE BRIGADE MARKET

1st Sunday of the month except January and February 8am-1pm Longwarry Fire Station, Bennett St Contact: Janine 5629 9636 or 0419 158 946

LUCKNOW MARKET

4th Sunday of the month - 8am-1pm Location Howitt Park, Princes Highway, East Bairnsdale Contact 0432 602 007

MAFFRA VARIETY & FARMERS’ MARKET 1st Sunday of month - 9am-1pm Main St/Johnson St, Maffra Contact: 5144 1108 or 0408 057 772

GRANTVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET 4th Sunday of month - 8am-2pm Location Grantville Recreation Reserve Contact John Hulley 5678 8438

HEYFIELD COMMUNITY MARKET

1st Saturday of month – 8am-1pm Location John Graves Memorial Park, Temple Street Contact 5148 3408 or 5148 2394

INVERLOCH COMMUNITY CENTRE ROTARY CLUB MARKET

Saturday, 7th March and 4th April - 9am-3pm Location Community Centre, A’Beckett Street Contact Ken Fisher 5663 5256

INVERLOCH COMMUNITY FARMERS' MARKET Last Sunday of the month – 8am-1pm Location The Glade, Opposite Inlet Hotel, Inverloch Contact Tennille 0448 327 637

INVERLOCH FARMERS’ MARKET

3rd Sunday of the month – 8am-1pm Location The Glade, Opposite Inlet Hotel, Inverloch Contact Peter Arnold 5664 0096

JINDIVICK COUNTRY MARKET

1st Saturday of month except January – 9am-1pm Location 1070 Jackson’s Track, Jindivick Contact Jindivick Harvest Kitchen 5628 5227

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3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Paynesville Football/Cricket Oval

Gilsenan Reserve Contact Scott 0409 524 399

REH CORK CLUB CRAFT MARKET

2nd Saturday of month until May – 7am-1pm Proceeds go to Good Friday Appeal in aid of The Royal Children’s Hospital Location Kay Street Gardens, Traralgon Contact Chris Van Der Meer 0487 342 675

ROKEBY COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Saturday of month until May– 8am-1pm Location Rokeby Reserve, Brandy Creek Road Contact 5626 8523

ROSEDALE COUNTRY MARKET 2nd Sunday of month - 7am-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 Malcolm Forsythe 0427 456 477

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 0408 057 772

TARWIN LOWER MARKET

Public Holidays Mondays - 9 March & 6 April- 7.30am-2pm Location Tarwin Lower Memorial Hall, Riverside Drive Contact John 5663 7505

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

FOSTER PROMONTORY PRODUCE & CRAFT MARKET

Sunday, 8 March & 5 April– 8am-2pm Location Foster Showgrounds, Station Road Contact Max Parnell 5682 2654

PAYNESVILLE FARMERS MARKET

WARRAGUL FARMERS MARKET MAKE IT BAKE IT MARKET From 9am to 2pm Phone: 0417 370 488 McBride Avenue in Wonthaggi's CBD Wonthaggi, Victoria 3995 Australia Extra Details Business Category: Markets Opening Dates & Times: Monthly.

2nd Sunday of each month, rain hail or shine.

Local made products sold 9am to 2pm

3rd Saturday of month – 8.30am-1pm Location Civic Park, Warragul Contact 0425 259 177

WONTHAGGI MAKE IT BAKE IT MARKET 2nd Sunday of month, rain, hail or shine Location McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi Contact 0417 370 488

WONTHAGGI ROTARY MARKET

2nd Sunday of month - 8am-1pm SPECIAL EASTER MARKET ON SUNDAY 5 APRIL Location Park, Murray St, Wonthaggi Contact Max Williams 5672 5204

METUNG FARMERS’ MARKET

YARRAGON COMMUNITY CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm Location Village Green in Metung Contact Damien Waters 0458 431 844

4th Saturday of month – 9am-2pm Location Yarragon Public Hall, Campbell St Contact Alison Butterworth 5634 2209

MIRBOO NORTH COUNTRY MARKET

YARRAM VARIETY MARKET

Last Saturday of month + 13 December – 8.30am-1pm Location Baromi Park, 49 Ridgway Contact Liz Morris 5668 1956

OLD GIPPSTOWN HERITAGE PARK MARKET 3rd Saturday of month – 9am-2pm Lloyd Street, Moe Contact: 5127 3082

1st Sunday of month - 8am-1pm Plus Easter Saturday 4 April Location Guide & Scout Hall, Yarram Contact Rinda 5182 5679

YARRAM – TARRA FESTIVAL MONSTER MARKET Easter Monday 6 April – 8am-2pm Location Yarram Recreation Reserve Contact Rinda 5182 5679

PAYNESVILLE LIONS CLUB MARKET 2nd Sunday of month - 8.30am-1.30pm SPECIAL EASTER COMMUNITY MARKET Sunday 31 March 8am -1pm Location Gilsenan Reserve Contact Lions Club 0400 327 526

If you require your event to be promoted please email Gippsland the Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

west gippsland

AUTUMN in

with

LAURIE COLLINS What happened to Summer?

At the time of writing we only seem to have had a few hot days and already the trees are starting to lose their leaves. I must admit that Autumn is a lovely time of year for me (I weld in my shed) so to not be too cold or too hot is ideal.

Well what’s happening?

March starts with the Warragul Show (first Friday night and Saturday in March) and this is at Logan Park in Warragul. At Lardner Park the month really gets going with a concert in the park with Boom Crash Opera, 1927 and TaxiRide and Michael Spiby. This is followed by one for the rev heads - Motorfest on the 7th and 8th. On the next weekend (14th and 15th) is the Australian Game Expo (not chess and Xbox but deer and shooting stuff) and then Farm World is on from the Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th March.

April starts with Drouin Rotary Club Swap Meet. www.lardnerpark.com.au/events Mt Baw Baw has its own degree of chaos over March and April with a Trail Run Festival, an Adventure Kids Festival, Seasons of Pain (no whips that I know of) and a Super D mountain bike run. www.mountbawbaw.com.au/whats-on/events For a slightly more sedate pace the West Gippsland Arts Centre has a marvellous range of shows over this time (or any time). Coming up is Dan Sultan, Vika Bull doing the Etta James story, Gilbert and Sullivan, Play School, Mamas and The Papas, Simon and Garfunkle, The Paris Underground Cabaret, The Wiggles, Hello Dolly and much much more. They also have art exhibitions in the Foyer and a lovely Café there so enjoy the whole experience. www.wgac.com.au Mind you Cardinia Arts Centre has a program nearly as good with shows including Legally Blonde the musical (just sneaking into March), Pants Down Circus, The Wiggles, school holiday movies, The Paris Underground Cabaret, a Psychic Expo, Sinatra and bits of the comedy festival. And other events and shows. Check out dates and times at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

There are still Markets going on over Autumn although the last Warragul Arts Market for the season is on the 3rd Saturday of March. Mind you, the Warragul Farmers’ Market continues through Autumn as does the Drouin Farmers’ Market on the same day (3rd Saturday). However, Rokeby Market continues until May (2nd Saturday) Longwarry Market is on the 1st Saturday, Jindivick Market is on the 1st Saturday (until May), Yarragon Market is on the 4th Saturday and Bunyip Market is the last Sunday of the month.

A new Market is the Neerim South Alley Market on the 4th Sunday of the month between 9am and 1.00pm.

Special events are numerous too. On the 8th March is the Thorpdale Potato Festival resurrected this year and this gives you a good reason to see the spectacular drive from Trafalgar to Thorpdale.

(Thorpdale Potato Festival Facebook Page). You can even go a bit further to Mirboo North and go on the Lyrebird Walk.

Getting out of town in the other direction on the 11th April is The Jindivick Rare and Unusual Plant Fair. This is a fair at the Jindi Hall with a great selection of stalls and last year the main street parking was full! This is also the day that Rokeby Market is on and if you have never been to Jindivick then have a fine dining experience at The Harvest Kitchen or a great Burger at The Caf, visit the Sculpture Garden or take in some other art at Gary Miles Bradley Hall Gallery Download the pamphlet more than 10 things to do around Jindivick from the front page of my website: www.lauriecollins.com.au In May there is the Jindivick Sculpture Show which this year does a stint at Jindivick and then moves to Narkojee Winery at Traralgon. This is a great show attracting a diverse range of entrants and the sculptures are placed through the town.

Have a look at the Jindivick Sculpture Show Facebook page (mainly for last year’s show at present, but it will change closer to the time).

Other art shows in the area are The Walhalla Easter Art Show (3rd-6th April) The Grand Art Exhibition at Cardinia Arts Centre (6th-9th March), The Yakkerboo Arts Show (29th-31st May) at Pakenham Town hall with a new section this year of Wearable Art. www.yakkerboo.org.au/artshow Mind you the Yakkerboo Festival has its street procession and family fun day on the 18th April this year.

Over one weekend in May (Saturday 16th – Sunday 17th) Yarragon goes arty and crafty with the Creative Yarragon ARTS FEST – The Full Spectrum.

Creative Yarragon is planning an extravaganza of art over two days. Bookings are required for the one hour workshops with the artist which range from watercolours, calligraphy, oils, resins, inks and printmaking. Textile workshops include circle weaving, spinning, felting, and creating wearable junk. There will be a variety of demonstrations throughout the weekend. Our menfolk will be catered for with an ‘Artisan beer – home brewing /distilling workshop’ and trips to the Holden Museum in Trafalgar. It’s based at The Yarragon Hall and the cost is $15 payable at the door and $10 to participate in one of the art/textile workshops.

Enquiries/bookings: Angela at Nickelby At Darnum 56278121 / 0419 550 301 or Joan at Tritec Art 5634 2044 / 0418 131 870 Have you forgotten Gumbuya Park too? Really what a great day out, animals, rides, picnic and BBQ facilities…I know this is there all the time but sometimes we overlook the obvious in our search for the new www.gumbuya.com.au I think you can say that there is a bit to do if you want to and if you still can’t get enough have a look at the Visit Baw Baw (not the mountain but the shire) website and this has a good range of other fun stuff such as relay for life, fun runs etc etc. www.visitbawbaw.com.au Have a good time and if you are passing drop in and say Hello. Good on ya...

Laurie

May is also the time of Creative Gippsland and this will start to be firmed up closer to the time but have a look at the website as there are events all over the whole of Gippsland area. www.creativegippsland.com.au Sculpture Garden Jindivick www.lauriecollins.com.au

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Zacky Tom

Lefty

Spider

Duke

Benson

Dotmuss

CORNER Ollie

Rusty

Lucky

Asha

Sam

Jack

Peppi

Indi & Willow

Bella Bathtime

Lucy

Tessa

Ricky

Please email Gippsland The Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au if you would like to place a photo of your dog in Canine Corner

Mark Knight, Herald Sun Cartoonist

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YOUR PERFECT DAY EVERYDAY...

"How you start your day is how you’re going to live your day.

And how you live your day is the way you live your life.�

Louise Hay Have you ever noticed that when you wake up in a bad mood that this sets the tone for the entire day? And when you are in a great mood everything seems effortless and easy?

These are just some simple examples that illustrate how our thoughts (our intentions) can affect our reality. Most people under estimate the power of thoughts, because they go about life on autopilot, doing most things out of habit, and therefore they create their reality unconsciously.

Our thoughts, intentions and beliefs affect our lives on a daily basis. They affect the choices we make and the energy we give off. They also affect what we attract into our lives.

Upon waking, your mind is naturally the quietest and your subconscious mind is the most impressionable, open to receiving your intentions and mental suggestions.

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Therefore, the way we choose to start our day influences how we feel for the rest of it, so be mindful that any negative thoughts you have will shape your subconscious for the entire day.

Be aware if you wake up and press the snooze button, pull the blankets over your head, and feel dread about the day in front of you thinking “today’s going to suck…”, then it will! Your subconscious will be imprinted with a limiting belief that “today sucks” and will work with your filtering systems and senses to create just that “A day that sucks!”

Now just imagine what you could achieve when you are consciously aware of the thoughts you choose; Clear thoughts that give you a feeling of peace and harmony within. Thoughts like: “I will do this”; “This is what I can see happening”; “This is what I want” or “I see myself doing ...” and “This is what I am meant to do”.

with my mentor and life coach that makes me passionate about offering my clients a holistic life tool that can create amazing changes and growth in all areas of their lives.

Each of us has a personal journey and has different needs at different times throughout life. In our complex world I believe coaching provides clarity amongst the noise, seeks to de-clutter what is not necessary and cut to the truth of what really matters.

The following are some simple suggestions on how you can bring awareness of thoughts into your daily routine: f Before you get out of bed, intend to have a fun or productive day.

I believe everything in life whether it be a difficult situation or our emotional, physical and mental health, are all connected and when one change is made in one area of our life, a ripple effect of changes take place in other areas too...for the better.

f Before

you leave the house, intend to have quality time with your family or friends. f Before you start your car, intend to have a safe drive to work. f Before you enter your workplace, intend to learn something new or be helpful. f Before the meeting begins, intend to be brilliant or calm and focused.

A day can be easily ruined if started by holding onto negativity and resentment. To have the road ahead of you be one that is healthy, happy and successful in all life areas; remember, you choose your thoughts, you choose your behaviour, you choose the outcome. And every choice you make determines how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Now let me ask you: “At the end of the day, how do you want to FEEL?”

HOLISTIC COACHING Erin is a mum to 2 little boys, wife to 1 big boy (who is sometimes like my 3rd child!) a Healer and Holistic Coach.

I aim to live life with a sense of excitement, anticipation and energy! My passion and purpose is to help and guide others to also find their true calling and Zest for Life!

Do you keep repeating negative patterns?

Are you lacking purpose, meaning or life direction?

Do you seem to attract bad luck with all you do?

Several years ago I answered "Yes" to those questions and many more! Lacking direction, purpose and feeling there had to be a better way - I embarked on a 12 month holistic coaching program which to say the least was life changing. I can truly say that life became so much easier when I was introduced to holistic coaching. It is a fantastic process that has changed my life, my husband’s life and our family life.

Holistic Coaching is an amazing process that helps people to identify where they are now and then where they want to be, it helps them to close the gap between their desired reality and present reality. It is a fantastic process that requires that people commit to themselves and be prepared to make changes that they may never have dreamed possible.

The truth is everyone has limitations that hold us back and EVERYONE can make life changes very easily also. We just need to be willing first and foremost to let go of ALL of our past limiting experiences and choices.

In doing so we can realise that who we are today is different from the past and that in this present moment a clean slate is presented to us, where our choice set and possibilities are unlimited.

At Zest for Life Holistic Coaching my sessions are designed to help you release, clear and rebalance obstacles, limitations and negative patterns that have been holding you back and hindering your progress. Through the use of a variety of tools my sessions enable you to eliminate major life blocks so that you can achieve specific, measurable results and reach your full potential.

FREE E-book “Intention-Living your Life with Intent” request your copy by visiting my website

www.zestholisticcoaching.com

It is through my own personal transformation, personal experiences and specific training

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Chrissy’s Positive Horoscope Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20

Secret Desire: To lead the way for others Words out, the secret is to keep life Simple, yep sometimes you can find life a little complicated by trying to resolve conflict and it may not always work out the way you may hope, however when you dig deep you know you have the ability to find that little gold nugget that will give you the answers you are looking for. It is a good time to say yes to an opportunity that may arise on the home front, if you are looking at moving house or investing in property this can certainly be promising, just be mindful to do all the research so you know exactly what you are getting. Lighten up, let your guard down a little and learn to have Fun by laughing with others rather than at them! SMILE!

Taurus Apr 21 - May 21

Secret Desire: To have a secure, happy and wealthy life/marriage

The lovely earthly Taurus whom has a love of nature and even if not the gardener appreciates the beauty of budding flowers and growth. This can be very much a time of growth for you even if you feel the need to help others in their growth it is time to make some decisions of your own, trusting in the law of attraction and keeping your focus on what is important to you is a winner. There will be a move for some regarding new job, purchasing a new car and even looking at travel regarding work. Trust in your intuition by letting yourself be guided.

Gemini May 22 - June 21

Secret Desire: To be ahead of the crowd

Keep up your inspiration for life, let yourself experience lots of things in life so you will eventually have an understanding of what and where you really want to settle and leave your mark. You have the ability to realise what you have to be grateful for and when practising this daily you can stay in your flow and make things happen in a very positive way. Noticing the stars in the sky at night brings you great pleasure if you can allow yourself to be guided by that star and allow your own self to sparkle and bring light into others’ lives with your presence. You may feel a pull at times to go in different directions so when this happens take some time to participate in meditation or yoga to get in touch with your inner self. Take care of you, be honest to yourself and others and you can’t go wrong.

Cancer Jun 22 - July 22

Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally, spiritually, romantically & financially)

Time to get out and get your dancing shoes on, kick up your heels and have some Fun. Even though there has been some tough times for you, with every challenge there comes a learning once that light bulb moment hits, you absolutely know its time to embrace that big wide world, let your loved ones embrace your journey with you.

Cancerians can be very emotional people and can take things very personal, this is showing the sensitive side of you, so if you find yourself being challenged rise above it and be the beautiful person you want to be.

Leo July 23 - Aug 23 Secret Desire: To be a star

Get yourself into the limelight and do what you do best as you are a natural entertainer, you know how to make others laugh and that is a gift in itself. Stay true to yourself by making sure if you are going to sign any agreements to enter a contract of some kind that you have read the whole document and it has all that you want there. Take some time out though for you to rejuvenate so as not to get burnt out!

Virgo Aug 24 - Sept 23

Secret Desire: To love and be loved in return

This is a time for you to really STOP and as they say smell the roses, you will find that when allowing yourself to practise this process daily giving yourself little spurts of YOU time outside will assist in accepting that it is okay to be you, have your own opinions and absolutely walk your talk, being an earth sign you tend to feel more aligned being outdoors. You may find yourself experiencing a few challenges, but hey what would you learn if this did not occur, as this is part of life. Having an understanding of your own self can really work wonders for you whilst giving you a sense of knowing how and what you want to create in your own life, your message is to stay in touch with your VALUES!

Chrissy’s Positive Horoscope Phone: 0414 735 165 Email:malmch@bigpond.com Website: www.positiveretreats.com.au and Mindfulness Meditation Classes visit www.lotuschiro.com

Libra Sept 24 - Oct 23

Secret Desire: To live an easy, uncomplicated life

There is certainly an old pattern that may keep rearing its ugly head, in reference to an old wound, this is something that definitely is required to be dealt with by looking deep within your soul, find the core root of the problem, give yourself a little time to work on this so you Stop repeating the patterns. As your mind tends to be overactive allow your mind to connect with your body so practise tuning into your surroundings more often than not and notice what you are doing, how you are responding, as this will help you to work out any negative patterns that you maybe repeating in life. On the upside there is change occurring for people around you that can have a strong effect on you and if you allow yourself to feel some excitement towards it you will gain a sense of achievement within your own being, whilst not feeling you require acknowledgement but just feeling a special sense of happiness within. Be PROUD of your achievements!

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22 Secret Desire: To triumph

Life is full of surprises when you let go of outcomes, you know you have a BIG heart and seriously care for others, and at times this can be detrimental for you as when your focus is too much on another, you can lose sight of yourself. The answer to this is for you to get focused from the beginning of the day by physically doing something that you Love to do, like walking through the grass for 5 minutes without your shoes on and being grateful for all that you have right now, just give it a go and notice how your day pans out, do it with your partner or children, try doing some small things differently in your day and notice what happens for you, when you start to make small changes in creating change in your life you will receive nice little surprises, so it is important to receive with thanks. This is a time of change for you as in becoming your own person on another level and allowing success and true happiness into your life daily! EMBRACE change, see the fire in your heart allow it to glow and l promise you the Universe will deliver! Let the change begin with you!

Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 21

Secret Desire: To make a difference in the world

A few exciting events are on the horizon. New life as in a baby on the way or grandchild, Sagittarians although they have that spark of fire can be very maternal and extremely nurturing for young children. There is a sense of Love in the air and of course you gotta love that, allow it, let yourself be spoilt (why you might say) because you deserve it. You are kind, loving and loyal and even though you may show that you are tough on the outside you can be the real softy on the inside. Trust in your own decisions by not feeling that you have to receive other’s approval. You may feel a little confused at times about your future goals but when you tap into your feelings and understand the concept of doing something you love and what you dream of, you certainly have the ability to create just that. Let your wisdom be the guide.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 20

Secret Desire: to be admired by their family, friends & the world at large

There has been a lot of celebrating and rightly so, for some letting their adult children off on a journey of their adult life and feeling proud of your parenting skills and for others the focus has been on business ventures. When in a good space you definitely have the creativity and knowledge for business moving to the next level. Plan ahead but remember to enjoy your journey along the way and make it fun.

Aquarius Jan 21 - Feb 19

Secret Desire: To be unique and original

Good time for a change and move away from that so-called comfort zone. Most Aquarians are extremists and great inventors, now is the perfect time to bring that invention to life, research what is required to make it happen, get in touch with the socalled professionals by getting their support. Good time for a clearing of old items that have been of no use for the last year to make way for the new to come.

Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20

Secret Desire: To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities

Peace and serenity is a little difficult to feel at the moment as you may find too many things are happening around you that you somehow feel responsible for, start bringing back the focus to yourself by TRUSTING and knowing that however difficult a situation for someone that you love may seem, you don’t have to make it yours; if you can practise moments of bringing your attention back to yourself, you will find that the secret powers of how the universe is working behind the scenes, will somehow magically unfold in a way you would not have imagined. Definitely a time to let it begin with you and allow yourself to see wonderment to experience how it FEELS for you.

TRUST!!

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20

the

BOOK NOOK Libra Sept 24 - Oct 23

Secret Desire: To lead the way for others

Secret Desire: To live an easy, uncomplicated life

Oh my goodness what a busy time is coming up for you, and seeing that you love to Oh now here’s the thing, because you Librans are so very intellectual you tend to be kept quite busy whilst having an abundance of energy, this can be a time to practise seriously overthink situations that can cause disharmony for you as in the sign of the how you expend that energy. Connecting with old friends will be in the pipeline, just scales it is quite important for you to feel balanced in life. As when unbalanced you remember that not everyone has the same energy levels that you have, so you may may get frustrated or feel like you are a little out of control. On a positive note when require some patience as others may not always be as reliable and forthright as you you get out of your head and in touch with your mind, body and spirit by recognizing can be. A good way to deal with this is to drop your expectations and be more aware people and situations that do not serve you, your senses will come to LIFE! So this is of your own reactions to others. Be proud of your achievements and look at business a time for you to be really honest with yourself, your partner, family and friends about as you have the ability to bring out the best in others. Allow holiday timeto where some of your true will helpadult to bringtitles clarity into your daily decision-making Yousome might like consider some ofdesires. theseThis young when you’re next browsing you can expend your energy outdoors and have fun enjoying the good things in life! and allow a feeling of peace to come into your world, make sure you notice and move for something interesting to read.

I know a number of people firstwith onyour the young The world IS your Oyster!! towards the things that bring pleasure to you, music, art,who doing look something hands good of a creative nature.

You are athese…….. quick learner and quite the perfectionist, so adult shelves for their next read.

Consider don’t wait until something looks perfect before getting it out there, and yes ask for help Taurus Apr 21 - May 21 when it is required rather than trying to cope with it all alone!

on the shelf now

Secret Desire: To have a secure, and wealthy life/marriage Thehappy Time Fetch

by Amy Herrick

featured children’s book author BOB GRAHAM

Well on the move for you, things are changing almost daily for a lot of Taureans, Onthehis way to school, Edward picks up what he thinksOct is a24 rock.

Scorpio - Nov 22 remember this is a time to bring forward amazing skills you have in communicating Heget doesn’t know that as it’sthis really a sleeping Time Fetch—and touching will with others and remind yourself not to to self-righteous can backfire with Secret Desire: Toittriumph foragers tooand soon and alter the entire fabric timemoments and space. your outcome. Being the earth signrelease you doitshave a love appreciation of the Some of magic coming up for you Scorpios, keep practising being as present thecare bellofrings endbasis classasjust it’s begun.

BusesYour racestar down planet and what you can do to assistSoon in taking it on to a daily youas have as possible. sign is probably one of the most misunderstood signs of the the awareness that you want future generations able to schedule enjoy the beauty zodiac. It has had a and pretty bad rap over the years, but that’s just because what streets, tootofarbebehind to stopthat for passengers.

Buildings surrounds us. You are learning to besidewalks the personbegin you want to be andasknowing yourfabricpeople understand, to disappear the whole of the don’t universe starts to they tend to fear. Below the surface of your cool exterior Bob Graham has sense written and likes and dislikes for this reason that is what others admire Follow your a scorching and passionate fire you know it and others unravel.

Only most Edward andinhisyou. classmates Feenix,isDanton, and Brigit, who intuition it will be SPOT ON!! So when you feel drawn to a person, thing or place, allow it too. You are an emotional being, and you take children’s it to the illustrated many picture have also touched the Time Fetch, can see what is happening. The Fetch yourself to go there. Others will follow your lead. Stay Confident! limits. In fact you need overkill to feel really alive. You also want books.

He was born in Sydney, has drawn them together in a strange and thrilling adventure in which approval, though you don’t often verbalise that. You give the boundaries between worlds and dimensions100 arepercent blurred,ofand places and studied JuliannoAshton Art yourself to those you love.

There at arethe definitely Gemini May 22 – June 21

and creatures on the other side are much like the they’ve always half ones measures in your attitude to love. Lots excitingare times School.

His ofbooks well known Secret Desire: To be ahead ofknown—but the crowdslightly twisted, a little darker, and much aheadmore for you in the coming months and simplicity although youand may humour, dangerous. for their As a Gemini, you are a bowerbird, mentally, and take an interest in all sorts of different feel fearful at times of the speed that things are moving for told from perspectives, things. Anything that gets your mind ticking over will grab you. You constantly try to you, just roll with it and as always you will manifest magical thingschildren’s coming to fruition All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven challenge your mental abilities and will make extra efforts to understand anything you including Halfbe Birthday,” you are very magnetic and people trust you“Oscar’s so let yourself seen and do“Buffy,” what you (Smarties All Thefor Bright is theespecially title and in it shows understanding of put your mind to. This is a time of growth a lotPlaces of Geminis learningthe author's do best most of all let yourself ENJOY THE JOURNEY!!

Life is full of SURPRISES!!

Book Prize silver award winner) and “Let’s Get a Pup” the minds of our side. youth.You Briefly, thethis story is about Theodore Finch a high to express yourself and get in touch with your creative will find a time (shortlisted for the 2002 Kate Greenaway medal; of celebration and change over this next quarter, somewho of this can behe challenging school student believes is 'broken'forand can't be fixed; he lives in Sagittarius 21Boston

you, however when you let go of expectations it will allow youand to enjoy yourself more winner Globe-Horn book award). He won a dysfunctional family at school he is considered a freak. Nov 23- Dec and not worry so much about what other people think of you. FREEDOM for you!

Secret Desire: To make athe difference in the world 2000 Smarties Gold medal for “Max”, the 2003 undoubtedly one of the most positive of the star signs. You were born Violet Markey is devastated by the death of herSagittarius sister in aiscar accident Greenaway medal for “Jethro Byrde,” under the ninth sign, which is Kate ruled by Jupiter. Jupiter’s traditional name was Jove, and the Cancer Jun 22 - July 22 and she and Theodore meet on the school bellhence toweryour (ready to jump?). jovial attitude. You Australian have a great sense of timing, and know justYear when Award to Children’s Book of the four Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally, romantically From there thespiritually, story takes you into the lives&of both these as they make yourpeople move. This is because Sagittarius governs knowledge, wisdom the and Bantam” times.

Otheralsotitles include “Queenie financially) struggle independently and eventually together tospirituality. dig their You way know out ofyou the can trust your gut feeling, so call on it when you need it. (highly for the Kate Greenaway Woohooo is what l would like to say to you,holes this next black theyquarter live in.can be a time of much Personal growth and understanding is acommended key aspect of your personality.

This seems medal), fun and appreciation for you, however you have to allow it in, sometimes because of “Dimity Dumpty” andanimal “Brand Baby.” like a bit of a contradiction, because you’re quite a party too,New but you do have your emotional strengths you feel you are required to always make yourself available this deeper side to your character. So the idea here is not to go to deeply, lighten up Highly recommended for adults and youngtoadults. others, this is okay when it is what you want. However, if you are feeling any negative with your own self allow calmness into your world, this will hold you in good stead with My favourite of Bob Graham’s work is “How to energy around it, you can become resentful, and then make yourself feel bad because decision making ahead. Have FUN in the SUN! House

by Alexandra Heal a Broken Wing,” which won the Charlotte of it. This is a time to seriously honourGhost your truth to yourself and to your Adornetto loved ones by this you newtotitle Times bestselling letting yourself be proud of that as thisWith will help feelNew and York see the enjoyment with author Alexandra Adornetto Zolotow Award in 2009, was shortlisted for the Capricorn people and things more on a daily basis in launched your life today.

APPRECIATION is the has the start of a beautiful andKEY! powerful new series. Dec 22 – Jan 20

NSW by Premier’s Literaryfriends Award, andworld shortlisted for Secret Desire: to be admired their family, & the

the 2009 Kate Greenaway Medal. This book was

large After the loss of her mother, Chloe Kennedy is at seeing again the ghosts Leo July 23 - Aug 23 also shortlisted thewhere 2011your REAL I guess thegrandmother's big thing here for this next quarter is tofor learn ownChildren’s strengths Choice at her Secret Desire: To be a star that haunted her as a young girl. Spending time and weaknesses are, as hard Award as that might be given, your needbook for wanting be KOALA and was an honour in theto2012 in the her chance to get away from A true Leo has a strength of charactercountry that canestate make quite ansouth impactofonEngland others, ifisyou regimented and knowing what is happening. You are an extremely loyal friend and yourself are in a positive place you can justgrief SOAR you haunt are doing, Award. her andwith theeverything spirits that her.you Until she meets a mysterious business partner and can at times feel disappointment in others due to their lack of can attract goodness, abundance andstranger…

Love into your life. Your kind-heartedness can honesty. Keep practising being present wherever you are and this will help you to at times let others take advantage of you, as it is easy for you to want to make others’ understand your choices in life and a sense of knowing what is really important to you. lives happy, this makes you feel a sense of importance. So you’re learning here is to Trustdarker in yourthan intuition Alexander Reade is 157 years dead, with secrets the and lake know it is okay to surround yourself with beauty, passion be gentle, give others confidence in themselves by having a little more patience, letting whilst knowing you more have your closest family and friends’ admiration. EMBRACE surrounding Grange and lifelike presence that draws Chloe them learn the repercussions of their own actions. When youHall learn theabalance, focus CHANGE NOW! strongly thanlives, any ghost before.

But themoving bond between them awakens the more on your own stuff rather than other people’s you will find yourself vengeful spirit of life Alexander's past love, Isobel. And she will stop at nothing in directions that you would never have imagined your to become.

AWARENESS to destroy anyone who threatens to take him from her. of self will bring with it CLARITY! Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19

Secret Desire: To be unique and original You know itand is such great time to notice your uniqueness, most Aquarians find it This author again shows her skill in developing characters plotsathat

difficult to conform to society, which l think is a great quality. You have that lovely intrigue young and old alike.

Secret Desire: To love and be loved in return ability to go and try things that others may fear whilst being able to know that it is okay

Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23

Virgos can be very fastidious with an extremely analytical mind and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that as you have the ability to process well whilst being well organised, this is a wonderful trait to have when running a business, a home or anything for that matter. Just have the awareness of it and let others know your strength in this area so you can use it to your advantage knowing what you love and where you can really be of benefit. Be real with yourself and allow the love, guidance that is within you to be seen by others. LOVE!

One of Us Asne Seierstad

watch for these coming soon…

to say no to certain things, ask questions to educate yourself to create something in a new way. You do have the ability to find the goodness in others and want to help them, however you might like to let go of a situation if someone is not conforming to your wants by accepting that they may not be ready yet. Focus your attention inward, involve yourself in activities that you Love then you will shine! Let yourself SHINE!!

Second Life Motherless Child Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20 The Definitive S. J . Watson Secret Desire: To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities

Eric This is a time in your life where you are recognisingBiography how intuitiveof and sensitive you are, Clapton as it is in your Piscean nature to care deeply for others as you have much empathy and compassion, however in doing so this may not necessarily be your true desire.

Pisces can base their decision making in a fleeting moment, this is why it is so important to get yourself grounded and notice some other options. This will allow you to share yourself without being drained. Remember when there is a full moon that your emotions and senses are quite heightened so keep your awareness button switched ON! Your destiny is primarily connected to wisdom, self-knowledge and compassionate service to the world. You’ll feel secure within yourself whilst bringing read great satisfaction to those who know you. Keep your Awareness button switched ON!our

Paul Scott

Foster’s Little Bookshop

4 Station Road, Foster 3960 ph (03) 5682 2089 visit www.fosterslittlebookshop.com.au

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