Gippsland the Lifestyle Magazine Spring Issue 24

the lifestyle. Our pride, Our place™ spring issue 24 DARREN BERRY Wonthaggi Legend

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METUNG

Boating & Fishing Paradise

SHEARWATER FESTIVAL 2015

RIDING THROUGH GIPPSLAND Cycle Feature

Biggest Distribution in Gippsland ISSN 1838-8124

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

RIDE THE STEAM TRAIN

Ride the Count Strzelecki Steam Train from 11am to 4pm Tickets $10.00 per person Sunday: 4 October, 29 November 2015

EIGHTH ANNUAL COAL CREEK LITERARY FESTIVAL 2015 - THE MAGIC OF WORDS

Saturday, 3 October 11am until 5pm The Coal Creek Literary Festival will be running a number of writing competitions ~ the Bert van Bedaf Memorial Award for the best Short Story ~ $500 Writer’s Prize; Open Poetry ~ $200 Prize: Open Picture Book Photo & Illustrated and U18 Picture Book Photo & Illustrated ~ $100 Prize. See website for entry forms.

Hear the writers talk about their work – writers are: Honey Brown, Hoa Pham, Sandi Wallace, Charles Hall, Nicole Hayes, Jacqueline Dinan, David Tattersall, Carrie Maya, Sandy Jeffs ADMISSION: ADULTS $10, CONC. $8, CHILD U16 $5 (INCLUDES A SIMPLE LUNCH)

HALLOWEEN

Saturday, 31 October 2015 5.30 to 10.30pm Best Dressed Competition, Apple Bobbing, Bonfire, Spooky Decorated Buildings, Monster Bash Disco, Reptile Show Food and Drinks available around the Park (This is a no Alcohol Event)

EVENTS

MONTHLY EVENTS

EDUCATION AT COAL CREEK

Pirates Day - Saturday 19 September 2015 Carols at the Creek - Friday 18 December 2015 Gippsland Geekfest – Saturday 16 January 2016

Ghost Tour 1st Saturday of the month Craft Market 2nd Saturday of the month Magic Lantern Show Last Sunday of the month

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

editorial Writers: Chris West and Amber Rhodes Contributors: Jan Bull, Ali Fullard, Chrissy Malm, Tamara Addison, Erin Miller, Laurie Collins, Craig Goodman, John Turner MAAPM, Ian Beer, Trevor Stow, Stuart Hay, Trevor Brown, Madeleine Stuchbery, Rebecca Twite and Wendy Morriss.

Cartoonist: Steve White Photographers: Amber Rhodes, Becca Smith and Douglas Pell Advertising: Douglas Pell Editor: Maree Bradshaw Creative: Alex Smirnakos Front Cover + Photo Cycle Sports at Mount Baw Baw courtesy of Yumeko Leung, Strategist of Royce.

See Bicycle Feature Pages 110 – 133 www.mountbawbaw.com.au

Welcome to Spring in Gippsland...

Spring is finally here and that means we can get out and about and enjoy what Gippsland is all about. Our writers have been very busy during Winter to bring our readers some beautiful features.

We have released our very first major feature on cycling in Gippsland. This recreational pastime that is enjoyed by many people is highlighted by the history of cyclists in the region, some of the current champions, past champions and people that are promoting the sport in various ways.

Our town features are Metung and Wonthaggi, and both towns are certainly worth visiting; Metung with the glorious Gippsland Lakes and Wonthaggi with the historical aspects and the nearby coastal area.

Following up on our feature on Traralgon Brass Band, we have taken a look at the Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band, which is now 105 years old steeped in tradition.

Darren Berry is a proud and local Wonthaggi person and he has gone on to being one of the most influential cricketers in Australia, his story is a must read.

The Shearwater Festival will be held in Phillip Island and we have produced a colourful feature on this great event.

Our contributors and feature writers have worked very hard in bringing this magazine together, and we are very proud to bring these insightful stories to all of our readers and wish you a very happy and fun time in Spring.

Maree and Doug Pell Our Pride Our Place

index regular features

contents Front Cover Page 8 – 11 Page 12 – 13 Page 16 – 17 Page 22 – 23 Page 28 – 29 Page 32 – 33 Page 40 - 41 Page 42 – 43 Page 44 – 45 Page 48 – 49 Page 50 – 53 Page 60 Page 62 – 63 Page 70 – 71 Page 74 – 77 Page 84 Page 86 – 87 Page 88 Page 92 Page 94 – 97 Page 100 – 102 Page 104 – 105 Page 106 – 107 Page 150

Cycling at Mount Baw Baw The Shearwater Festival 2015 Spring Time with Wildlife Coast Cruises Phillip Island Phillip Island Wild Oceans EcoBoat Adventure Tour V8 Supercars at the Phillip Island SuperSprint Stony Creek Go Karts The Fish Creek Hotel Rosedale Retro Village Festival Penny Worth O’ Lollies Noojee Hotel – Warmth Character & Enduring History Yarragon Vintage Market Gippsland’s First Lady of the Cup with Patrobas Metung Wine & Food Festival 2015 Metung Town Feature On the Waterfront - Waterfront Retreat at Wattle Point Leon Kyriacou – A Cut Above Honey Brown – Coal Creek Literary Festival Jindi Farm Bush Foods Reflections of Yarram Photo Feature 3mFM – Jarrod Churchill Darren Berry – Keeping Perspective Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band Whale of a Time – Taberner’s Wonthaggi Hotel Through the Lens - Wonthaggi Book Launch – Country Town Quilt by Ken Roberts

Page 5 Page 6 Page 24 Page 26 Page 36 Page 66 Page 68 – 69 Page 78 Page 82 Page 109 Page 136 Page 138 – 139 Page 140 Page 141 Page 142 Page 144 – 145 Page 146 – 147 Page 147 Page 148 Page 149 Page 152 Page 153

Editorial – Features Index – Advertisers BEANd Food Review The Press Cellars Wine Review – Purple Hen Winery Decorating Dilemmas by House Prowd Nautica Restaurant & Bar Recipe Off the Hook – Victoria River Curtis Australia – My Grandfather’s Tools Gardening Tips – Grow Master Traralgon Wonthaggi Medical Group – Strong Community Focus Ali’s Art Page Spring Events Guide Spring Market Guide Spring Crossword Puzzle Spring in West Gippsland with Laurie Collins Gippsland Grooves – Ricki Wood Canine Corner Steve White Cartoon Chrissy’s Positive Spring Horoscope Zest for Life Outlets – Where you can get a copy of the Magazine The Book Nook – Foster’s Little Bookshop

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cycling gippsland feature Page 112 Page 114 – 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 118 – 120 Page 122 – 123 Page 124 – 125 Page 126 Page 128 – 129 Page 130 – 131 Page 132

Bass Coast Cycle Challenge & Family Festival 2015 Wilderness Coast Adventures Jan Bull’s Book Review on Wheel Life by Ben Schofield Venture Out – Choose your own Biking Adventure A Brief History of Gippsland Cycle Racing -Ben Schofield The Changing Seasons at Mount Baw Baw AAF: East Gippsland is home of the Ultimate Adventure Playground Gary Jackson of Riviera Cycles The Great East Rail Trail Ride Gippsland Gold Women’s Road Cycling Development Team Charlotte McShane World Triathlon Champion

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index advertisers

our advertisers Page 93 Page 54 Page 85 Page 3 Page 137 Page 65 Page 55 Page 25 Page 58 & 59 Page 113 Page 154 & 155 Page 137 Page 6 Page 21 Page 137 Page 61 Page 4 Page 67 Page 110 Page 27 Page 35 Page 34 Page 91 Page 15 Page 7 Page 80 Page 84 Page 99 Page 56 Page 99 Page 64 Page 151 Page 141 Page 83 Page 64 Page 61 Page 2 Page 46 Page 38 Page 111 & 133

3mFM AHERNS FRUIT MARKET & FINE FOODS ALAN WILSON INSURANCE BROKERS ALEX SCOTT & STAFF REAL ESTATE ALI FULLARD ART STUDIO ARTIZAN KITCHEN BAIRNSDALE RACING CLUB BEANd MICRO COFFEE ROASTERY & STORE BEMM RIVER HOTEL BASS COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE BLUE HILLS RISE BRIAGOLONG B&B CORNER COTTAGE BRIGHT IDEAS – PRINTING CAR MEGA MART PAKENHAM CELIA ROSSER GALLERY CHOCODENCE COAL CREEK COMMUNITY PARK & MUSEUM CRAWFORD MARINE CROSS OVER CYCLE CURTIS AUSTRALIA CUSTODIA DCSI We do Internet.

DINNER PLAIN - HOTHAM ALPINE RESORT DWYERS.com.au EDNEYS LEONGATHA EVANS PETROLEUM FISH CREEK HOTEL FOONS PHOTOGRAPHICS FOSTER SEAFOODS GARDEN ‘N TABLE GIPPSLAND LAKES BARGE SERVICES GIPPSLAND REAL ESTATE MAFFRA GRINTERS TRANSPORT SERVICES GROW MASTER TRARALGON KINGS COVE CLUB METUNG LAKES ENTRANCE SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB LANGFORD JONES HOMES LAURIE COLLINS SCULPTURE LEONGATHA RSL LIMELIGHT SPORTS AUSTRALIA ADVENTURE FESTIVAL

Page 156 Page 99 Page 65 Page 57 Page 121 Page 27 Page 67 Page 46 Page 143 Page 103 Page 47 Page 18 Page 27 Page 19 Page 127 Page 98 Page 98 Page 41 Page 47 Page 129 Page 37 Page 30 Page 73 Page 64 Page 79 Page 47 Page 134 & 135 Page 31 Page 39 Page 20 Page 117 Page 35 Page 72 Page 90 Page 81 Page 116 Page 14 Page 108 Page 102 & 152 Page 49 Page 89

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MASSARO VOLKSWAGEN MELBOURNE FURNISHING CO METUNG PHARMACY MOO’S AT MEENIYAN MOUNT BAW BAW MUMMA GOOSE NAUTICA RESTAURANT & BAR METUNG NEERIM COUNTRY COTTAGES NOOJEE HOTEL PAINT PLACE PENNY WORTH O’LOLLIES PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS PURPLE HEN VINEYARD & WINERY RACV INVERLOCH RESORT RIVIERA CYCLES BAIRNSDALE ROSEMONT FARMSTAY RUSSELL NORTHE MLA SAM TWITE STONEWORKS SARAH’S TOWN & COUNTRY SNOWY RIVER CYCLING SPACE FLOORING AND INTERIORS STONY CREEK GO-KARTS THE BLUE DUCK INN THE METUNG HOTEL THE RIVERSLEIGH THE STATION GALLERY YARRAGON TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB TRARALGON TOYOTA TURKISH MAGIC V8 SUPERCARS VENTURE OUT AUSTRALIA WARRAGUL CONSULTING GROUP WATERFRONT RETREAT AT WATTLE POINT WIGHTS HYUNDAI WIGHTS NISSAN WILDERNESS COAST ADVENTURES WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY & LOTTO YARRAGON VINTAGE MARKET YARRAM CLUB HOTEL

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THE SHEARWATER FESTIVAL 2015

by Amber Rhodes

Initially it began in a very small way, with Laura and some friends wanting to do something to celebrate the return of the birds, whose remarkable long distance journey can be completed in only 10 days. There was an idea to have a concert and go for a walk to see the birds fly in at dusk, but it quickly grew into the 2 day festival that, not only brings together many members of the community, but highlights the importance of the Aboriginal culture and the need to regenerate the use of language.

A 15,000 kilometre journey, resulting in the laying of one very special egg, is cause for celebration in November on Phillip Island. Each year the shearwaters make their pilgrimage from the Bering Sea between Russia and Alaska, and come back to their rookeries on the islands in the southern oceans, where they will lay their egg and spend the warmer months. The Shearwater Festival is now in its fourth year, and led by Dr Laura Brearley, it has become a significant part of the Phillip Island community, aiming to bring about cross cultural understanding, develop partnerships and raise the level of environmental awareness, not just about the shearwater birds, but about our relationship to the land and to the oceans.

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For the last 13 years Laura has been working with Indigenous artists and musicians with a project called The Deep Listening Project, and the decision was made to involve members of this group within the festival. Deep Listening is an Aboriginal way of listening and learning, a concept that applies across many Indigenous languages in Australia, and the project is about honouring this tradition and the importance of passing knowledge on to future generations.

The project is about language revival, creative engagement, and also learning and research.

The project itself involves many Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, musicians and educators and members of this community join together to share stories, create music and songs and take part in Deep Listening Circles.

“The Deep Listening Project draws on an Aboriginal concept,” said Laura. “It's a term that means listening between the words and beneath

the words, and recognising that we listen with all parts of our being, our heart and our soul. It's about listening to what isn't said as well. It’s a way of being together and building community and it’s inclusive and profoundly connecting.”

In the beginning, when the concept for the festival was coming to fruition, Laura met Senior Education Ranger, Graeme Burgan, who has been researching the shearwaters for the last 25 years and is one of the world's experts. Between the two of them, and with the involvement of the Bass Coast Shire, Phillip Island Nature Parks and the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation of Languages, the very first festival soon took off at a much larger scale than they had ever imagined.

Because of The Deep Listening Project there were a lot of Indigenous people involved.

“The project became an interweaving of the creative, the cultural and the environmental, which I think has been one of the hallmarks of its success,” said Laura, who has discovered that the festival impacts people on many different levels. “Some people come because they love the birds and they are inspired by the birds and their flight. Others come because they are interested in the way in which the project has reinvigorated language and is regenerating culture through the arts.”

Naturally it is the birds themselves, and their incredible journey, that is the backbone behind

of the albatross, their wing spans reach almost a metre, which is their secret to being able to travel such a great distance in such a short space of time. They can travel at extraordinary speeds, and by using the wind they don't have to flap their wings the whole way, thereby they are not expending all their energy.

the festival. They represent an important part of Indigenous culture and are a symbol of global inter-connectedness. They link us to the ocean up in the northern part of the Pacific. If there is a drop in the krill numbers up north, the bird numbers on the Island will also decline.

There are approximately a million birds that nest on Phillip Island, with 500 thousand alone having their rookeries at Cape Woolamai. As a cousin

They arrive virtually on the dot of the 24th of September every year, then usually leave on the Full Moon around Easter. While up north the birds are feeding and don't go in to land at all, spending their entire time congregating on the water and diving for krill. The numbers of krill in the Bering Sea are substantial, but any change in this can impact the birds, an example being two years ago, when two very significant cyclones in the South China Sea blew the birds off course.

On arrival back at Phillip Island many birds were underweight, and all along the Eastern seaboard, and the north eastern islands of Tasmania, it is believed over a million birds washed up to shore.

This particular disaster really drives home how fine the balance of our environment is, and how everything is inter-connected, and if one element is disrupted so many other aspects can be affected. “The birds are like a symbol of how we are linked closely to the environment,” said Laura. “If any element is out of balance the birds indicate to us that this is the case.”

shearwaters making their homes in other parts of the world. The short-tailed shearwater is the species particular to Phillip Island, but the birds are also found on Gabo Island off the coast of Mallacoota, where there are 6000 breeding pairs, and there are also rookeries off Port Fairy, and large numbers on the Furneaux Island off Tasmania, such as Cape Barren Island and Flinders Island. They tend to favour islands,

The birds are found nesting across a wide area of southern Australia, with different breeds of

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THE SHEARWATER FESTIVAL 2015

usually building their nests close to a cliff face and will use the wind to help give them that lift for take-off.

Laura's background is integral to the success and coordination of the festival, with her role being to hold all the threads together. She writes songs and, with permission from the Elders, integrates language into the songs. She has been in adult education for most of her life, including community, vocational education and tertiary education. She still has some involvement with universities, and works at Federation University in Gippsland where there is a group of Aboriginal artists who are currently undertaking Masters degrees. These students have become an important part of the project.

“My great love is the weaving of communities together, and so I've learnt over the years how close the South Eastern Australian Aboriginal community is. They all know each other and we've been privileged to have been welcomed into that group. As people have finished their Masters and PhD’s they've stayed part of our network and The Deep Listening Project, which has been going since I first started working with the Indigenous students at RMIT in the early 2000s.”

Laura also facilitates a cross cultural exchange, and just recently she has returned from visiting the islands off British Columbia, making contact with Indigenous artists and children living there.

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There are messages going between children from the schools on Phillip Island up to children in an Indigenous community called Bella Bella, and they also exchange messages with other Indigenous children in Alberta in Canada. “It is a way of helping children understand how interconnected we are and the issues that we're dealing with globally, said Laura. “In terms of the environment and environmental care, it is something that we all share. The birds help to highlight this.”

Each year the festival has been expanding, with more people coming from other areas. It is also steadily gaining in recognition, recently receiving a state-wide HART award from the Victorian Local Government Association and Reconciliation Victoria. The Shearwater Festival won the award for promoting reconciliation and involving the community, the Elders and the children. The festival is having a wider reach, but they are continuing to work hard to ensure that it keeps the Indigenous focus, especially the interweaving of the environmental and the cultural.

Laura also highlights that the festival is strongly linked to language revival, with it being a major part of their focus. With permission from the Elders they sing songs and use the arts to revive language. Where there used to be 450 different languages across Australia, many have been lost, and they want the country to hear them again.

Many people are involved in the celebration, and last year they filled the Cowes Cultural Centre where the performances are held. The Bass Coast Shire and the Phillip Island Nature Parks have both contributed venues on the island, and their support has always been wonderful. The program includes talented Indigenous artists and performers, as well as workshops and a street parade, which includes school children and their parents. Walks are conducted at pre-dawn and at dusk to see the birds themselves, which for many is the highlight of the weekend.

There is also a Shearwater Education Program leading up to the festival itself, which is conducted in the local schools, where Indigenous Elders, artists, musicians, environmentalists and Aboriginal linguists teach the children about the shearwater birds, the environment and culture, and speak about the significance of language.

Language is a key feature of the Festival, and with the permission of the Elders, they use it wherever they can.

The themes for this year's Shearwater Festival are 'Caring for Country' 'The Circle of Life' and 'Sacred Spaces', which are important aspects of Aboriginal culture. “The Aboriginal people have taught me that the word we use for 'Country' has great depth,” said Laura. “It also means mother, it means spirit, it means identity, it means language, it means song, story, dance, respect, sustainability – all of those ideas are within this idea of 'Country'.”

Senior Education Manager Graeme Burgan

This year one of the projects to be included is called 'Shearwater Short Tales'. Funded by Regional Arts, the project involves working with the Mallacoota community of East Gippsland, where there are many artists. They are developing five Short Tales of ten minutes or less, which will be creative, cultural and environmental pieces that interweave theatre, music, song and dance, and all of which will have a cultural element.

Artists in Bass Coast are also working on the same project, creating ten pieces in total.

The Shearwater Festival has a working group, which has membership across key partners such as the Bass Coast Shire Council, the Phillip Island Nature Parks and the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation of Languages, as well as the Aboriginal and local communities and local artists. They come together quite early on in the year to work towards the festival. The working group is committed to the project being community-owned and embedded in the local framework.

“It's about ensuring with every year there's a deepening and strengthening of the community and an understanding that this is an Aboriginalled process. It's about ensuring the Indigenous voice is paramount. There are things that the Indigenous community have to teach the nonIndigenous world that are very pertinent to the planetary environmental crisis.

“They have an understanding that you belong to the land, that you don't own the land. You respect the land and ensure that you walk lightly on it.

There is also a deep respect of the Elders and their knowledge. There is a deep commitment to passing knowledge on to children, of thinking of unborn generations and the respect you need to accord to them. There is a recognition that it is time to listen. That's really at the heart of this festival, that it's time to listen and listen deeply.”

talented Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists and musicians. There will be a focus on theatre, community singing and drumming in this year’s Shearwater Festival.

Of course, at the centre of it all, are the incredible birds, whose inspirational journey bring together communities and deepen environmental and cultural awareness.

THE SHEARWATER FESTIVAL 2015 For more information about the Shearwater Festival go to www.shearwaterfestival.com.au www.facebook.com/shearwaterfestival Photographs by Terry Melvin

This year the festival is being held on the Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd of November at the Cowes Cultural Centre with a broad range of

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SPRING TIME WITH

WILDLIFE COAST CRUISES

PHILLIP ISLAND

Just south of Melbourne lies a unique and special destination – beautiful Phillip Island.

Affectionately known to locals as ‘The Island’, this is one of Victoria’s best kept secrets.

Featuring rugged coastlines, pristine beaches and diverse wildlife, most areas are still virtually untouched.

Most people would think of the little penguins when they picture Phillip Island, and the Penguin Parade is a very popular attraction for good reason – the little penguins are very cute! But there is also a little known area of the island, an incredible stretch of coastline, thought by many to be the jewel of the crown.

Jump on board the Kasey Lee Catamaran with Wildlife Coast Cruises and explore the most spectacular scenery on Phillip Island, as you cruise around magnificent Cape Woolamai! Situated on the eastern side of Phillip Island, Cape Woolamai features some of the island’s most impressive landscapes, best viewed from the sea!

Be in awe of Cape Woolamai’s 110 metre high ancient pink granite cliffs as they tower above you.

Marvel at the breathtaking caves, including the secret pirate cave and be amazed by the beautiful aquamarine water, which has to be seen to be believed. The captain and crew will look for the fascinating marine wildlife that inhabits this area, including seals, dolphins, seabirds and eagles.

Wildlife Coast Cruises offer two cruises around Cape Woolamai, you can choose from a 1 hour

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scenic cruise from San Remo, around the Cape and back again in time to see the daily Pelican Feeding.

Or the 3 hour Captain’s Lunch Cruise from Rhyll, where you will cruise through Westernport Bay and under the Historic San Remo bridge. This trip includes a short stopover at San Remo to see the pelicans, before getting back on the boat, where you will enjoy a fresh local fish and chip lunch on your way back to Rhyll.

These cruises are ideal for families, and have also been very popular with groups.This year groups can receive discounts of up to 40% off.

Cape Woolamai is a truly magical place and this cruise is an unforgettable experience.

CAPTAIN’S LUNCH CRUISE • 3 hour scenic cruise from Rhyll • Tea and coffee with cake • Fresh fish and chips lunch • Local commentary and stories • Witness the sheer granite cliffs of Cape Woolamai • Regular dolphin, seal and seabird sightings • Cruise under the bridge to Phillip Island CAPE WOOLAMAI CRUISE Great Value! Only $15 for children and $25 for adults.

• 1 hour scenic cruise from San Remo • Tea and coffee with cake • Local commentary and stories • Witness the sheer granite cliffs of Cape Woolamai • Regular dolphin, seal and seabird sightings • Cruise under the bridge to Phillip Island

Wildlife Coast Cruises have lots of other cruises on offer, including daily tours out to Seal Rocks, Twilight cruises into Westernport Bay and Tours around beautiful Wilson’s Promontory National Park.

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

Seal Rocks is situated 2kms off the rugged south west coast of Phillip Island. The boat drifts within meters of the seals, enabling you to witness them in their natural environment first hand. It is impossible not to be captivated by these naturally playful and inquisitive animals, as they regularly approach the boat for a closer look at you! Along the way you’ll be enthralled by the beautiful coastline and learn all about the history of Phillip Island’s western shoreline.

From September to October the male (bull) seals start arriving at Seal Rocks, and begin claiming or defending breeding territory, causing sometimes violent fights between competing males.

In November the season’s new pups will be born, and breeding will commence.

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

Seal Watching Cruises are currently scheduled 2pm daily.

Book in advance, as cruises are weather and number dependant.

SEAL WATCHING CRUISE • 2 Hour scenic coastal cruise • An average of 5000+ seals sighted up close • Complimentary afternoon or morning tea • Variety of seabirds and regular dolphin sightings • Educational commentary • Historical sights • Children activities • Warm undercover viewing TWILIGHT CRUISE Twilight Cruises run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Join Wildlife Coast Cruises on a leisurely evening Twilight Cruise through the sheltered waters of Westernport Bay, aboard their 19 meter vessel, the ‘Kasey Lee’.

Enjoying a drink from the licensed bar in a relaxed atmosphere and watching the towns light up around the bay as the sun sets, this is a perfect way to end your day on beautiful Phillip Island.

Why not combine the Twilight Cruise with dinner at a foreshore restaurant – enquire for package deals!

TWILIGHT BAY CRUISE • 90 minutes twilight and sunset cruise • Visit the submarine HMAS ‘Otama’ • Regular dolphin and seal sightings • Light hot and cold appetisers • Licensed bar on-board • Captain’s commentary • Children’s activities WILSON’S PROMONTORY CRUISE Come on an incredible adventure with Wildlife Coast Cruises and visit one of the most beautiful, natural areas in the world.

An experience of a lifetime, visiting untouched islands and rugged coastlines that are not accessible by land, viewing amazing rock formations, spectacular marine and wildlife areas that most people wouldn’t dream exist.

Full day of catered, luxury cruising with breathtaking scenery of Wilsons Prom as you have never seen it before!

Wildlife Coast Cruises have released some special 2015 dates in October 17, 18 and 19th.

Bookings required.

WILSON’S PROMONTORY CRUISE • Morning and afternoon tea • Buffet lunch, freshly prepared on board • Explore Refuge Cove on a walk or swim the clear bay • Cruise around the Prom lighthouse and the southernmost point of Australia’s mainland • Cruise up and under Skull Rock • Visit Kanowna Island seal colony • Regular seabird and dolphin sightings • Free coach pick-up from Cowes, San Remo, Inverloch, Toora and Foster Photographs courtesy of Wildlife Coast Cruises

Wildlife coast cruises are offering free travel to guests who are celebrating a birthday during the month of September!

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AWARD WINNING DEALERshIP

Coaches to Cars A History of Dwyers 2000 to 2015

2000 Much ado about nothing – ‘The Millennium Bug’. Huge costs in computer upgrades!

2001 Appointed Daihatsu Dealer in both Bairnsdale and Sale, owned and operated by Toyota. Europcar Vehicle Rental franchise for Gippsland started in Sale, now also in Bairnsdale. Presentation to Dwyers from Esanda, a great association which started for us as English, Scottish and Australian Bank over thirty years ago!

2002 Fantastic year: ‘Toyota Presidents Award’ again, ‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’ again and both Parts and Service Silver Excellence Awards.

Also, recognition for excellence in business management, customer service and satisfaction in all aspects of the business.

2003

Martin Boyle recognised by Toyota for outstanding service, loyalty and dedication to the franchise 1973-2003.

2004 Anthony Dwyer married Dayna Battams from Loxton, South Australia. Expansion of buildings, car parks/vehicle storage and staff numbers continues at a pace. The work expectations never seem to end! We enjoy the challenge!

2006 Rural Dealer of the Year. Parts/Service/Sales Excellence awards again – we really endeavour to help everyone. Another long server recruited directly from school, reached the significant milestone of thirty years with our family. Peter Trimnell, wife Anne and their four children celebrated here with guests and staff for the presentation and speeches, a happy night! ‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’, Customer

Relations, Sales, Service and Parts Excellence Awards. We aspire to excel in customer support!

Resolved to sell Sale and expand Bairnsdale. New fascias, automatic electric doors installed. The works and expectations never seem to end. We enjoy the challenge!

2007 ‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’ again. Sales

Excellence Gold Award. Toyota Aurion outsells Ford Falcon in our PMA. Anthony and Dayna welcome Lily Grace Dwyer to their family. Kevin Joseph Dwyer turns 70 … a big year!

2008 ‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’ third year in a row and Toyota prestigious ‘Presidents Award’ for the third time – a great result! New dealership plans – permits held up by shire bureaucracy. We will succeed, we are determined.

2009 ‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’ for the fourth consecutive year in addition to the ‘Presidents Award’ two years running – a first for us – two years running, what a result! Anthony and Dayna welcome their second child, Joseph James Dwyer, maybe the fifth generation for our little firm. Kevin Dwyer hands over the reins after 55 years in the top job to Anthony Dwyer who is announced as his successor and the new Dealer Principal.

adjoining our existing facilities, with the employment of five additional staff members and a huge learning curve and new products and services available to our customers.

2011 Twenty years with Toyota in Bairnsdale - 35 years of service from Peter Trimnel (Sales Manager), 20 years for Reg Holt (Accountant), Kay Miller (Administration) and Martin Boyle (Sales) with Mark Mason (Sales) also in his 20th year. This is an incredible milestone for any business to have such longstanding and loyal staff.

2013 Dwyers leave Mitsubishi after 18 years service.

Join Chrysler Jeep Dodge, a very successful move.

Achieved Rural Dealer of the Year for both CJD and VW – happy double! Detailing shed/fences/water storage and ring mains installed. Bairnsdale PMA now has 17 franchises compared to 7 in 1975.

2015 Huge changes with senior long service, happily retiring plus one moving out after a long innings. Now lots of new, young, enthusiastic people have joined us – energy fresh ideas – smiling faces – Dwyers’ little world being renewed.

2010

‘Toyota Rural Dealer of the Year’ for an amazing fifth consecutive year, an achievement I don’t think will ever be achieved again. Appointed the Volkswagen dealer for the East Gippsland Region for both Passenger and Commercial vehicles

by Volkswagen Group Australia. Commenced works on the new state-of-the-art Volkswagen facility

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

PHILLIP ISLAND Wild Oceans EcoBoat Adventure Tour The rugged and spectacular coastline of Phillip Island forms the perfect backdrop for a high speed adventure on the Wild Oceans EcoBoat.

This exciting new boat tour, operated by Phillip Island Nature Parks, has only been running since December 2014, and already thousands of local and international visitors have enjoyed the thrills, the wildlife and the fantastic scenery that Phillip Island has to offer.

Departing daily from Cowes jetty, the EcoBoat is a world-class rigid hulled inflatable boat (RIB) with seating for up to 47 people. Powered by four whisper-quiet outboard engines, the EcoBoat skims across the top of the water as it makes its way along the island’s coastline on its way to Seal Rocks, a rocky outcrop at the western end of Phillip Island, where the pounding waves and driving winds of Bass Strait roll in to the sheltered waters of Westernport.

Seal Rocks is home to about one quarter of Australia’s largest fur seal population, and provides an important breeding area and nursery for around 25,000 Australian fur seals.

On any given day, you can expect to see up to about 8,000 seals on the two rocky islands that make up Seal Rocks. But it hasn’t always been like this.

In the early 1800s, seals were hunted throughout the Bass Strait region including Seal Rocks.

Sealers were among the first Europeans to live in Victoria, and by 1825 the seal population at Seal Rocks had been all but decimated. For over a century, seals were hunted by fishermen who perceived the seals as a threat to their productivity. In order to protect a dwindling seal

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population the Government created a wildlife reserve at Seal Rocks in 1928 and seal hunting was banned in Victorian waters.

On its approach to Seal Rocks, the EcoBoat slips in to a protected inlet between the two rocky plateaus and offers visitors some fantastic, up close viewing of the rock’s inhabitants. Naturally curious and playful, the seals come to greet the boat and check out its occupants, all the while putting on an amazing and amusing show as they duck their heads in and out of the water and play a game of leap-frog with each other.

The expert ranger guides on board happily share their wealth of knowledge and give visitors an insight and an understanding about

what it is they are witnessing. Males spend much of the year fishing in distant waters and will compete for territories during breeding season (November – December), with only the biggest being successful.

Females give birth to one pup every year, then make short fishing trips in between returning to the colony to feed their pups milk. After nine months the pup is old enough to fish for itself, becoming independent shortly after. It is the pups that are the most curious and playful, so it is these little seals that will be most active around the boat.

The EcoBoat is also equipped with an underwater camera for a real-time view of just

nature parks Australia’s newest seal adventure!

entangled. Their natural curiosity can lead them to investigate or play with a whole range of objects they find in the water. Entanglements are often life-threatening and can occur from a range of discarded items including fishing nets, fishing line, plastic bags, balloon strings, hats, and even the plastic yokes that hold a six-pack of beer cans together.

what’s going on beneath water level. The seals’ apparent clumsiness on land belies their total grace and skill as they move effortlessly through their watery playground.

In addition to being a wonderful holiday activity, the EcoBoat to Seal Rocks also contributes to the welfare of the seals by spotting and reporting seal entanglements to the Phillip Island Nature Parks Research department. One of the most challenging tasks for the research team, headed by Dr Rebecca McIntosh, is to attempt the removal of debris from entangled seals on their regular visits, which occur every 1 to 2 months. Nature Parks’ staff rescue an average of 20 entangled fur seals each year, and it is the pups that are the most susceptible to becoming

Rescues are only possible on the rocks themselves, as once the seals have entered the water, researchers have no hope of catching them. In Dr McIntosh’s own words: “Rescuing seals is an enormously difficult task and it’s a problem best tackled by ensuring these materials don’t find their way into the marine environment in the first place.”

This simple but important conservation message is delivered by the ranger guides on the EcoBoat Tours and is brought home in no uncertain terms when visitors come across a hapless seal, most often entangled in an item that should not have found its way into our oceans in the first place.

As the seal viewing draws to a close, the EcoBoat makes its way back towards Westernport with a few interesting stops along the way. See the secret “pirate’s cave” at the base of the Nobbies rock formation, visible only from the water. You will also get some great views of the Nobbies cliff-top boardwalks and Visitor Centre.

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PHILLIP ISLAND

nature parks

There’s enough time for a quick stop at the Cat Bay National Surfing Reserve, famous for its longboard break, before your experienced captain puts the EcoBoat through its paces with a bit of wave-running, and perhaps even a “donut” or two. Your tour concludes as you pull in at the Cowes jetty in plenty of time to make it to the sunset viewing at the Penguin Parade.

Visit the website at www.penguins.org.au or call the friendly Nature Parks team on 5951 2830 for any enquiries on the Wild Oceans EcoBoat or the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Photographs supplied by Phillip Island Nature Parks EcoBoat Tours

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V8SUPERCARS V8 Supercars will return again to ignite the Island at the Phillip Island SuperSprint, 20 - 22 November 2015.

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Witness Ford, Holden, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and Volvo battle it out for last minute Championship points on one of Australia's fastest racing tracks.

One of the best ways to watch the Phillip Island SuperSprint is from the comfort of your own Grandstand seat – yours for the weekend, and a great way to get away from the crowds.

Grandstand tickets include a free Pit Lane walk on Saturday or Sunday and Kids 12 and under receive free Trackside admission with a paying adult.

A fantastic weekend of V8 Supercars racing will be bolstered by four action-packed support categories, including the thundering Touring Car Masters, crowd-favourite Aussie Racing Cars, Australia’s development open wheel racing category Formula 4 and the diverse Sports GT.

As a bonus for 2015, Grandstand ticket holders get exclusive access a special Saturday night BBQ, where they’ll be able to meet some of their favourite V8 Supercars stars, and even have the chance to take them on head-to-head on the gokart track!

Head to ticketek.com.au to book your spot, or go to v8supercars.com.au for more information.

Phillip Island is the most scenic venue on the 2015 Championship Calendar boasting natural wonders and activities for all, including a gokarting circuit, helicopter rides, Penguin Parades and much more.

The Phillip Island SuperSprint is the perfect weekend getaway for mates, couples and families – there’s something for everyone.

Aside from being the most scenic of all the track’s we visit, Phillip Island is also one of the most historic, with the Island hosting the very first Australian Grand Prix way back in 1928.

The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, where the V8 supercars will race, has been open since 1956, hosting the pre-curser to what would become the famous Bathurst 1000.

Photographs courtesy of V8 Supercars

For the kids, the Disney Zone is back and bigger than ever with a brand new inflatable Disney/ Pixar Cars obstacle course, and all-new Cars Ice Racers ice rink.

There’s even a sensational camping option, making the Phillip Island SuperSprint the perfect choice for a massive mates weekend – glorious views, great entertainment and three days of incredible racing action!

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FOOD REVIEW A d a t e wit h BE AN d It is always great to visit San Remo, the quaint fishing village on the mainland of Bass Coast near the bridge that takes you to Phillip Island, where I had a date with BEANd Café for breakfast; overall a very pleasant place to be.

Owners Graeme and Yuki Heenan have been in charge of BEANd for a couple of years and the double bonus is that not only is the coffee superb, the food is also, and I am pleased to present my review on experiencing breakfast at BEANd. I have to admit that normally when I have breakfast I am a fried eggs and bacon person, but to do a food review I had to extend myself a little and half way through this beautifully presented meal, I am now a convert for a nutritional breakfast.

First up was a freshly squeezed Valencia orange juice. The Valencia orange is noted for it's sweetness and combined with ice, it made a refreshing start to the palate with my main breakfast course aptly named Avo-Avo. Avo-Avo was served up on fresh toasted multigrain bread, generous portions of avocado slices, Bass free-range eggs, crispy prosciutto, hollandaise sauce and home made tomato relish.

Graeme is an award-winning chef, and he has put his skills and his enthusiasm into BEANd, consequently the results are there to see.

I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. It was an absolute delight and very light as well; the flavours were appealing and made me wanting more. Graeme’s presentation of the fare was superb, further enticing you, and along with a freshly brewed latté, I had a very enjoyable breakfast.

I noted that many other people share the same sentiments; people keep coming back for more and why not, the services provided were very hospitable, and the food fresh and flavourful.

Having said this, coffee is really Graeme's passion. I had the BEANd Peace Blend, which consists of organic Columbian, Guatemalan, Kenyan and Java coffee beans, full roasted and blended in-house.

All in all, I had a splendid breakfast, cooked to perfection and I left a very satisfied customer with a new attitude to breakfast. Yes there are plenty of choices on the menu at BEANd. But it doesn't stop there, I was given lunch as well. The Glen Alvie Wagyu Beef Burger made for a tasty treat, with the twelve month old aged cheddar, brioche bun, lettuce, tomato, and served with an accompaniment of chat potato chips.

The brioche roll looked amazing, with sesame seeds garnishing the top, it was light and delicious. The cheddar cheese was melted perfectly and could be seen glazing the side of the patty. The wagyu beef was melt in your mouth – the seasoned beef ticked all the flavour boxes. The fillings were of excellent quality and the cheese shone through with great taste. The burger was well-balanced and the ingredients worked together very nicely indeed, with wonderful flavours filling your mouth with every bite.

So, if you are looking for a hearty breakfast, an enjoyable lunch, then look no further than BEANd in San Remo, opposite the jetty and close to where the pelicans visit for their daily feed; perhaps they have heard about BEANd too!

by Demitasse Pepper

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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 sou rce 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 040 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

Wine Review

by Stuart Hay | The Press Cellars

Purple Hen Gippsland Sauvignon Blanc 2014

Purple Hen Gippsland Pinot Noir 2013

Coy herbal notes peep from behind the citrus skirts of this grande dame of a Sauvignon Blanc.

Gippsland shares a bright fruit character with the Mornington Peninsula when it comes to Pinot Noir.

No tropical banana dress dance here.

Poached lemon with hints of baked custard and trimmed hedge herbals on the nose.

Purple Hen’s offering fairly fizzes in the glass with it’s olfactorial exuberance. Red cherry, sap and polished oak put on a seductive show.

A medium mouth weight, the citrus continues paired with a dried lavender character.

In the mouth the theatre paint is removed revealing a personality of substantial depth.

The tannins are marked but at ease with the Cherry / Plum fruit. The oak rounds the mid palate with a mealy softness making for a surprisingly serious glass of wine.

Acid is tempered by a portion of barrel ferment.

This wine would love hanging out with baked Barramundi and a crisp green salad.

Rewarding drinking. Perfect with Beef and Black bean Stir fry.

rrp $22.00

rrp $30.00

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

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VINEYARD & WINERY

We grow, make and bottle our wines on Phillip Island Cellar door with stunning bay, vineyard and farm views Music and other events - see our website for details

96 McFees Road Rhyll Phillip Island Hours 11am - 5:30pm 7 Days a week in Summer & School holidays Other times: 5 days a week (Closed Tuesday & Wednesday)

Best Pinot Noir, Best Shiraz & Best Wine of Show 2014 RACV Gippsland Wine Show

Ph: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

Mumma Goose is a small, retail store, run by mother and daughter duo Jenni & Caitlyn Murphy.

Stocking a unique selection of giftware, homewares and art pieces, Mumma Goose supports a range of local and interstate artisans and makers.

Friday and Saturday 10.00am - 5.00pm

54 Tyers Street, STRATFORD, Victoria (03) 5145 6816

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Amber Rhodes

For a fun-filled day and a thrilling ride, you can't go past the Stony Creek Go Karts, located on the South Gippsland Highway, only 130 kilometres south east of Melbourne. Being my first time behind the wheel, it was with a little trepidation that I took off around the track, followed closely by my 12 year old son, but it was an experience that I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Graeme McCaughan and his son Callum, run the business together, with his other son Brad coming in to work casually every now and then.

Graeme built the track himself 7 years ago and Callum came on board a year later.

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The idea for a go kart track surfaced about 25 years ago, stemming from a passion for car racing. Graeme had only ever driven a kart once before that, instead owning an old Formula 3 racing car and being heavily involved in the sport. He started racing when he was 27, at racing tracks like Calder, Sandown and Phillip Island, but quit 3 years later after he married.

He started hill climbing with his wife, and with no time to race, the car just sat in the shed. He sold it to a man in Leongatha, who then went on to sell it to another fellow who plans on racing it in America and Europe in a different world series, after having restored it like an historic Formula 3.

Meanwhile, with the idea for a go kart track still simmering, Graeme had built the golf course at Tarwin Lower, and was then asked to have a look at the karts. He searched for 17 years for a suitable place to build the track, until finally the location on the highway becoming available.

Graeme designed the track himself, looking at the lay of the land and working with the space that he had, although he smiled at me when he described how it was done. “I drove around in

my old Commodore,” he said. “This was just a rough paddock out here and I drove around and worked out what I wanted, then measured where I was going to put the buildings.”

After this he had his brother in-law follow his route on his tractor, and from there the track was laid. The course is 800 metres down the straight, to allow you to get up a significant amount of speed, and 700 metres on the shorter side, with plenty of twists and turns thrown in

for good measure. The track is composed of 30 mm thick hotmix bitumen and is fantastic for both beginner drivers and those with experience. Race days are held regularly every month, with the last event attracting 62 entries.

You can take out a membership with Stony Creek Karts, and most members do participate on race days, but anyone can come along and enjoy the day. Competitors will bring their own karts and they are finding that they draw a lot of regulars, as well as attracting people from all over, some even as far away as Torquay. On a race day they will have approximately 20 drivers out at a time, with some drivers reaching speeds of up to 130 kilometres an hour, and most averaging a speed of 90 to 100 kilometres an hour.

control the speed for children. There is not a strict age limit, with it being more important that children can reach the pedals, with boys usually being around 9 or 10 years of age and girls about 8. For those parents with younger children they also have two karts that have a second seat, so an adult can accompany them.

The Stony Creek hire karts are all Phoenix Endurance Class rigs, which are made in Melbourne, and with 9hp Honda Engines they will generate speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour.

There is also a cafe that serves hot food and snacks, and they also cater for kids’ birthday parties as well as group functions. They can have up to 12 hire karts on the track at once, which makes for a great day out.

Stony Creek Go Karts www.stonycreekgokarts.com.au Ph: 5664 7272 Photographs by Doug Pell

“It's good to watch,” says Graeme. “Most of the drivers are pretty well behaved, we specify that. We have one little guy that is only 9 and he's really quick. He makes some of the bigger blokes look silly!”

They are open every day, apart from when the football club is playing at the local oval, which is nearby by, and also when the horse racing is taking place next door. Through winter they are closed during the week, but as Graeme lives locally, you can phone if you want to come down and often he will open up the course for those who want to head out for a spin around the track.

Anyone can come down and “give it a go” - someone in their 80s once gave it a shot.

Children are welcome to use the track. There is a throttle stop they can put on the karts to

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

■ Hire Karts ■ BYO Kart Membership (Day/Yearly Rate) ■ Corporate Days ■ Group Bookings ■ Birthday Parties & Functions ■ Driver Education ■ Phoenix Kart Agents ■ Kart Sales & Spares ■ Café

Please check website for dates and times.

PH : 5664 7272

EM: info@stonycreekgokarts.com.au For more information visit stonycreekgokarts.com.au Please Note: When Stony Creek Racing Club is holding a race meeting the venue will be closed. During the winter period the venue is closed mid week unless prior booking is made.

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10am

TOYOTA AURION

Luxury in motion

The Toyota Aurion is for drivers who appreciate attention to detail and intelligent, innovative engineering. Aurion is a truly luxurious vehicle with it's prestigious styling.

TOYOTA CAMRY

Impressive from every angle

Re-designed and better than ever, the New – Look Camry has plenty of room for the whole family. With the latest technology and safety features at your fingertips, you’re ready for whatever family life throws your way.

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

THE

FISH CREEK HOTEL

Amber Rhodes

With a population of only 200, Fish Creek seems an unlikely place to find an old Art Deco style hotel. However this is exactly what you will find, and not only that, but you will discover that behind this grand exterior exciting new dishes are being created with fresh local produce, and with the introduction of a French pastry chef, mouth-watering delicacies are finding their way onto the menu.

Terry Peavey, and his brother Simon, took over the running of the hotel back in April of 2013, when both of them were looking for something new. Simon, with 20 years' experience in the hospitality industry, had the background to ensure a successful start, with Terry bringing his knowledge of running a business into the mix. Simon brought a lot of energy into the project, helping create the right ambience within the building, putting in a lot of time and effort.

However before long he was ready to move on and Terry's older brother Kevin stepped in to make up the partnership.

Today the hotel has come a long way since the brothers took over the reins, with extensive renovations taking place both outside and within, to restore the building back to it's former glory. Built in 1939, the building was showing signs of wear and tear, and inside things like carpets needed to be replaced, walls needed repainting and bathrooms were remodelled. It is now their third winter at the helm and more recently they have been turning their attention to the kitchen and their menu.

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“Our main focus at the moment is the food and the kitchen,” said Terry. “We've been doing quite a lot of renovations and modifications to the kitchen, and we've just introduced a new special oven to enable us to produce a whole new range of products. As much as possible, we produce everything here.”

With the recent inclusion of a pastry chef on their kitchen staff, they can now produce everything from scratch, something that is a major part of their focus, to make their food a real stand out. Wherever they can they use local produce, with their fish coming from both Foster and Inverloch, choice cuts of meat coming from a local supplier, and local potatoes, which are grown in Fish Creek, are used so they hand cut their own chips and wedges.

They have been doing a lot of research, looking at different hotels and restaurants in Melbourne, to come up with a style of cuisine that is both at a higher end of the market, but also staying faithful to traditional pub fare. Meals like chicken parmigiana and steaks will always be available but they also want to take it up a notch. They are aiming for a happy medium, providing for a range of customers from both locals and those who come and visit from cities, such as Melbourne.

“Of course we're not a Melbourne hotel, we're a country hotel, so we take the elements of what we think is good, especially in terms of food, and we use what we think will enhance the experience here,” said Terry. “What we're trying

to do is offer excellent food at a reasonable price, as well as extend the boundaries.”

The building itself is a draw card for guests, with 8 hotel rooms upstairs and further accommodation available in the form of 9 motel rooms. The motel rooms have their own bathroom facilities, but the hotel has a male and a female bathroom that is shared by the guests, something that is typical of an older style hotel.

As a seasonal hotel, summer is their busy time, with it beginning to pick up in September, and really taking off by Melbourne Cup weekend.

January is also a busy time with school holidays. During this time they will fill the bistro at lunchtimes, and at night they will have two sittings, using both the bistro and the Oberon room, which is also used for functions, such as weddings and parties, and also meetings, being able to seat up to 50 people.

As Terry explains, the hotel is driven by the Prom and the water, with guests often coming regularly every year as they stay at holiday homes and B & B's. With a wide range of places to stay Terry says there is actually very few places to eat, so their aim is to make their hotel, and indeed Fish Creek, a real destination.

William Hutteau their new pastry chef, who comes from France, is the latest addition to the hotel, and with him comes plans of baking fresh baguettes, petit pain au chocolat, croissants and other delicious delights. These will not only extend their repertoire but open the doors for

their new breakfast menu, which will be rolling out at the start of spring. Along with the pastries will be the normal traditional cooked breakfasts, adding a whole new dimension to the hotel.

particular brewery, they can offer a wider range of beers, including craft beers. With 7 beers on tap, as well as a cider, patrons are spoiled for choice.

The business, and the hotel itself, has grown slowly over the last two years, and as Terry describes it, “It's been part of an organic growth.” By doing up the hotel slowly they have been learning about their clientele, and by knowing what their customers can adjust to and what changes will suit their market. “We've recognised the need and we understand the area,” said Terry.

In two short years they have come a long way, and with the renovations almost complete, Terry and Kevin can really begin to focus on their future plans for putting Fish Creek, and the hotel, on the map.

When it comes to their food, Terry stresses that it is not about the quantity but the quality, which is why they were inspired to hire William. The kitchen is run by head chef Paul Fitzsimmons, and with a good 25 years of experience, has been with them for approximately 18 months.

Along with their excellent meals their wine list is made up of those only produced in Gippsland, aside from their Champagne, which comes from France, and as they are not tied to a

“It's developing into a destination, somewhere for people to come for the weekend,” said Terry. “We're attracting people who want to come to Gippsland for a food experience.

We want this place to be the 'go to' place for people to come and stay, and experience good food.”

Photographs by Amber Rhodes

Fish Creek Hotel 1 Old Waratah Road, Fish Creek Ph: 5683 2404 www.fishcreekhotel.com.au

thelifestyle spring 2015

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Your local ISP, since 1995

DCSI is a local Internet Service Provider based in Warragul, Victoria, offering broadband Internet, phone, and webhosting solutions Australia-wide.

We offer a broad range of services and plans to suit homes and businesses, with competitive pricing and a friendly local support team.

1991 inception

Drouin Computer Services (DCS) opens its doors in Drouin, offering computer systems for sale and associated IT support services to local homes and businesses.

1995 dial-up

We move to Victoria Street, Warragul, and begin offering the first local dial-up internet service – no more long distance call charges. Two Apple Mac servers run the whole show, and our backhaul to the wider internet is provided by a 64Kbps ISDN line, which eventually moved to 128 and finally 256Kbps.

1997 webhosting

We begin providing webhosting services for business and residential customers, powered by Linux-based Cobalt RaQ servers.

1998 broadband

We upgrade our backhaul to a one-way satellite connection, with the satellite link providing the downstream bandwidth, and an ISDN line handling the upstream.

2000 division

As demand for internet services grows, DCS splits its business, with the computer sales and support becoming Leading Edge Computers, and the internet services becoming Drouin Computer Services and Internet – DCSI.

2002 wireless

DCSI starts building its fixed wireless network, beginning with two 802.11b access points in Warragul, and expanding to cover Drouin and Tynong shortly afterward.

2003 adsl

DCSI begins providing ADSL services in Victoria, through wholesale partner Wholesale Communications Group (today known as M2 Wholesale). This year also saw us acquire the internet business of SYM-PAC Solutions Pty Ltd, merging their dial-up customer base with our own.

2004 relocation

DCSI moves to 64 Queen St, Warragul. The Trango M2400S wireless system is rolled out at towers across Gippsland, offering ADSL-grade performance wirelessly at distances of up to 40KM.

WE DO INTERNET HIGH PERFORMANCE | COMPETITIVE PRICES BROADBAND | INTERNET PHONE | WEB HOSTING WIRELESS | PHONE SOLUTIONS DIRECT LOCAL SUPPORT | YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS NO CONTRACTS Hours:

Address: Phone: Fax: Email: Web:

Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 9.00am to 12.00pm Sunday closed 1A, 155 Queen Street, Warragul VIC 3820 1300 66 55 75 1300 55 65 95 support@dcsi.net.au Follow us on facebook www.dcsi.net.au

2008 dslams

We complete the arduous process of installing our own DSLAMs at the Warragul phone exchange, allowing us to provide extremely competitive ADSL2+ in Warragul.

2009 3g

DCSI adds 3G mobile broadband to its product lineup, leveraging the Optus network for coverage.

2010 phone & wimax

DCSI begins providing landline phone services to homes and businesses throughout Australia, and begins installing WiMAX and AirMax wireless access points throughout its Gippsland network, offering speeds of up to 12Mbps download.

2011 drouin adsl

We complete our DSLAM build in Drouin, expanding our on-net ADSL service to cover the town and surrounds.

2013 voip

We start to offer voice over IP (VoIP) to residential and business users, bringing super-cheap phone calls to the masses. We now have a 1Gbps fibre link to Melbourne, this is 16,000 times greater than the 64Kbps we started with in 1995.

2014

DCSI now offers NBN and fibre connections as well as continuing to offer high-performance, competitively priced broadband, webhosting and phone solutions with outstanding local support

today

We have now relocated to 1A, 155 Queen Street, Warragul to keep up with the expansion of our business.

WARRAGUL CONSULTING GROUP

Custodia is one of the oldest and most established bookkeeping firms in Warragul.

Now in our 18th year we are renowned for providing a professional and cost effect bookkeeping solution.

Accredited Partners for Reckon, Professional Partners in Xero, QuickBooks and MYOB, Custodia is the perfect place for everything in Bookkeeping and Training.

For a comprehensive list of our upcoming trainings, please check our facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Custodia

SUPPORTING YOUR BUSINESS

155 Queen Street WARRAGUL VIC 3820

P: 03 5622 1226 M: 0412 340 911 E: pauline@custodia.com.au Web: www.custodia.com.au

NEWEST AND MOST PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SUITES IN WARRAGUL. Affordable consulting rooms charged at a sessional rate with full reception.

Our staff can also answer calls in your business name, and take appointments, plus more, for a low additional cost.

We also have rooms that are suitable for:

* Annual General Meetings * Business Meetings * Conducting training * Day-to-day desk space

* Off-site planning / strategy days * Seminars or forums Ph: 03 5624-3808 155 Queen Street Warragul VIC 3820 thelifestyle spring 2015

35

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.

Wall Skins

Bookshelf Love!

An Organised Office Space

Q. My rental townhouse has a dark hallway space and I thought adding some bright fresh temporary wall paper might do the trick. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

Noah A- Via Email

Q. My book shelf is messy and its looks boring. How can I make it look neat and interesting?

Jan B- Via email

Q. I work from home every day. My work space always seems to look disorganised. How can I make my space more organised and less cluttered?

Ben C- Via Email

A. Here are my suggestions and tips Jan that will help you with your book shelf make over project.

My Five top Bookshelf Styling Tips 1. Mix up the book placement - try a mix of vertical and horizontal arrangements. Do this both within the same shelf and then also try mixing up the way entire shelves are arranged so that one shelf is all horizontal and another is all vertical.

A. There are many options available to you and it is just a matter of doing some research before purchasing. I have a favourite company which I use quite often. They like to refer to them as wall-skins. The Melbourne based company is called Lumi Opus www.lumiopus.com.

They have a fabulous range of contemporary wallpaper to suit every décor style and budget.

Prices start from as little as $35.00/sq. metre.

Their paper is 100% self-adhesive, so no messy glues, the paper is wrinkle free which is a bonus, they are all pre-cut sheets, easy to remove and leaves no sticky residue behind.

The wallpaper has a top coat which is water, scratch and UV resistant. Contaminant free and 100% Australian owned. I hope this is some help to you Noah. Good luck with your project!

2. Try colour coding your books - This is often a bit controversial, but unless you have a collection of 1000+ books, it shouldn’t make it any more difficult to find the books you’re looking for.

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thelifestyle spring 2015

Purge Paper. It's easy to let papers pile up in your home office. Get control of the clutter before it takes over your space. Go through every piece of paper in your office by using the System of Three: shred/toss it, file it or take action from it.

Everything needs a home, even stacks of mail - get things under control by creating a mail organizer.

Make labelled folders for incoming and outgoing mail, mail to file, bills and for every family member. A folder organizer or a box can serve as a handy holding place for your newly created mail folders.

Colour Code Your Filing System. A well-organized filing system is a good indication of a functional office space. To organize, separate the filing system into colour-coded categories.

3. Decorative objects - Think sculptural. A beautiful bowl, plate, photo frames or even a stack of boxes.

4. Something natural - My favourite bookshelves incorporate organic materials. I have a bowl filled with shells on my shelf that I collected one summer with the children, but you could also include a beautiful plant or a vase of flowers for further interest.

5. Artwork - Definitely incorporate artwork into your shelf scheme. I have placed lots of pieces that I have collected over the years I have travelled, a gorgeous drum from Fiji and a beautiful plate from Venice for example.

Tamara Addison Blog: ww.houseprowd.com

A. Items such as storage boxes, document trays and desk organisers can assist in organising and managing your office space.

Here are five helpful ideas Ben to help you organise your home office space more effectively.

Create a Mail Station. In order to maintain control of the paper coming into the home office, create a mail station. Make a folder for incoming and outgoing mail, mail to file, bills and a folder for every family member.

As soon as the mail comes in, file it in the mail station.

Then once a week, take a few minutes and go through each folder.

Create a Printing Station. Designate a space in your office to house the printer and printer supplies. If you have a wireless printer, it doesn't need to go on your desk. By placing it in a cabinet or other area in your office, you will gain much more space on your desk for other items.

Happy Decorating! Tam x

0439 341 520 Email: houseprowd.@gmail.com

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thelifestyle summer 2013-14

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thelifestyle spring 2013

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ROSEDALE Retro Vintage Festival Rebecca Twite

Early morning on Sunday May 24th this year was an intensely cold one – I know this, because one of the draw cards for the Rosedale Retro and Vintage festival was the “Lost Trades” section and being the wife of someone with a truly unique and “lost trade” - Stonemason Sam Twite, I came along to experience the festival.

The initial set up involved Sam setting up a pre-cut arch which is assembled during the festival; which provided the perfect opportunity for me to make myself scarce and get amongst the crowd. As someone who willingly watches programs such as Antiques Roadshow – I didn't really need much motivation to explore and it was truly hard to know where to begin.

There was a record number of stalls and attendees at this year’s festival, which went like clockwork due to the diligence and dedication of the festival’s organisers and a group of amazing volunteers, all of whom dedicate their time for the good of their tight knit community. The money raised by the festival will fund development projects that will benefit not only the local community but also travellers through the area.

The festival has such a fantastic variety of sections that it literally took over the whole of the Rosedale CBD. One of the musical acts was the one-man band Uptown Brown, who drew quite a crowd as he moved around the festival and through the crowds. In the Prince Street reserve there was plenty of the usual bric a brac, vintage clothing, shoes, home wares, live music along with a rock and roll dance act, home made treats and the festival staples of street food and rides for the kids. What sets this festival apart from the others was the emphasis on trades that have been lost to technology.

If you've ever wondered where you can buy a fully functional Penny Farthing built from original specifications (and I'm sure we all have) then Penny Farthing Dan is someone you need in your life; with an impressive array of new built Penny Farthings of which also came with mounting and riding demonstrations along the 'Lost Trades' strip through Hood Street. Further down I found Olivia O'Connor who hand carves rocking horses from scratch, and also Paddy Mackenzie better known as Paddy Blacksmith who, if I'm honest – had the best position as he was stoking coals all morning. To say he was the envy of the rest of us shivering away was and understatement. Then there was amazing craftsman Shane Connell Wolf, better known as 'The Timber Wolf' the wood turner who makes fantastically original pieces including various shaped and textured bowls, bottle stoppers, trinket boxes and his pride and joy of

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a beautifully sleek, highly polished enamel and banksia pod salt/pepper mill, such high quality and lovingly created using raw materials from across the country that wouldn't look out of place in a gallery space.

Another big draw card was the Show and Shine, a procession of lovingly restored vintage cars and caravans, which was found along Lyons Street. You can never underestimate the lure and power of something so shiny – as I realised when I noticed I'd spent an hour walking around and gawking through the windows of these beauties – the dedication and respect of bringing something back from the brink that could have been lost forever perfectly sums up the overall feeling of the amazing people who have given new life to their passions, whether that be something as simple as picking up a needle and thread or learning a trade that will be handed down from generation to generation and making something old, new again, to grow and thrive with a fresh new outlook.

With the festival drawing thousands of people from all over the state this year, it can definitely be said that it was a massive success and will only get bigger next year! The next event on the calendar for Rosedale is the “Man Cave Market” on September 6th, which is set to be another massive event with a huge range of stalls and displays once again taking over the town!

Photographs by Rebecca Twite

Stone Artisan

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Penny Worth O' Lollies Amber Rhodes

“Like a kid in a candy store,” is a phrase we've all heard before, but for Gavin and Helen Cochrane who own and run Penny Worth O' Lollies in Yarragon, it's a wonderful everyday reality.

The business itself has been in operation since 1999, but was sold after 8 years, with Gavin and Helen taking over the helm in 2006 when they decided they wanted to slow down a little. Gavin, who used to run an engineering business, was based in Pakenham and Drouin.

Previously living in Modella on 10 acres, they have since downsized as their children have left home, and have spent the past 6 years living locally in Yarragon. Before buying the business they knew they wanted to get into retail and looked at various different types of businesses, such as a post office and newsagents, but then the lolly shop came up for sale and they knew it was where they wanted to be.

It was a change for both of them moving into retail, as it's not as easy as it looks. “It was a big challenge for me, more so than Gavin,” said Helen. “But I've fitted in now and I feel comfortable. I really like it.”

When buying into the business they knew they were taking on a lot of work, but 10 years ago they weren't thinking of slowing down after moving away from the engineering, and they

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needed something to do. They are both happy that 9 years later they are still keeping busy, but they know that eventually they will gradually be able to step back once they are ready to retire.

They have one staff member who works part time, a young girl who comes in Friday and Sunday, giving both of them a well deserved break.

They stock a huge array of lollies and chocolates from all over the world, with sweets coming from places like England, the Netherlands, Germany, America, New Zealand and South Africa. Being a specialist store they stock a wide range of different delights that you certainly won't find in your regular supermarkets, and they keep away from brands like Cadbury and others that the supermarkets do have, not only because they

They have a lot of people who drop in on the way through from Bairnsdale and further out in East Gippsland, as well as the school buses, although generally the kids are banned from coming into the store! The Army and Navy will pass by as well, but they too are on a strict quota, only being able to come in on their way back to base.

can't compete, but it's nice to have something different on their shelves.

“That's what we aim for, things like Dutch Licorice and the Scottish snowballs are different,” said Helen.

When asked if there is anything that stands out as being overly popular, Gavin says that it is hard to pinpoint anything in particular. “Some people always come for the same thing, but every now and again you might be able to sell them something different.” They find that everyone has different tastes so it's difficult to say what sells best, although they have learnt gradually what generally works well and have a lot of tried and true favourites.

Easter and Christmas are slightly busier times of the year, but they find they are fairly steady all year round. Unlike the big supermarkets they steer away from getting their Easter stock in early, putting it out only six weeks before, and they do the same with Christmas, waiting until the end of October.

They stock Australian chocolates and lollies too, particularly from smaller Australian producers.

One such product is the handmade truffles made by Graeme Reynolds of 'MMM Truffles' of Lakes Entrance.

stopping in, their business will always continue to tick over at a healthy pace. Buses often stop in Yarragon for an hour and the people will walk the strip of shops and stop in. They get many overseas visitors and people from all over. They also find that many families use Yarragon as a middle ground to meet up with relations from the other side of the city or from other parts of Gippsland.

For the moment Gavin and Helen are happy with the way the business is ticking along, often finding new additions for the store. “We get new products in and that changes things,” said Helen. “And different tastes too. There's chilli chocolates now, and Tabasco chocolate.”

Both of them love the interaction with the public, and Helen, who hadn't worked since before she was married, found it's been a great learning curve.

“We get a nice clientele,” she said. “They're happy and excited to be in a lolly shop. Even adults love it!”

Penny Worth O' Lollies Open 7 days from 10am to 5pm 1/101 Princes Hwy, Yarragon 5634 2012 Words and photographs by Amber Rhodes

As well as the chocolate and lollies they also stock a fantastic collection of model cars, something the previous owner used to sell, but now they have a lot more. They find they will sell the odd one here and there, often an impulse buy, but sometimes someone will come in looking for something specific.

With a significant tourist trade passing regularly through Yarragon, and many busloads of visitors

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The Noojee Hotel today Sydney Wentworth Smith built the hotel and was the first proprietor and publican.

WARMTH, CHARACTER & ENDURING HISTORY

By Wendy Morriss

Gippsland’s renowned and beloved Noojee Hotel will celebrate ninety years of pouring beers during the last weekend in September with live music, entertainment, amazing stories and the return of its colossal legendary dinosaur.

The hotel is serenely situated on the banks of the Latrobe River in the small scenic town of Noojee. The former timber town is one with several heritage and natural attractions and is less than 50 kilometres from the summit of Mt Baw Baw. The exceedingly popular establishment is known for its wonderful rustic, family-friendly, country pub atmosphere. Patrons and families can enjoy the warm open fire inside or alfresco dining on the elevated balcony that overlooks the river and the natural bushland beyond.

for the growing timber industry by providing accommodation and for the consumption of beer.

In 1926, a year after its establishment, and again in 1939, bushfires destroyed the town.

The hotel was the only building that survived through both fires and served as a community meeting place during the emergencies.

After the 39 fires, the hotel took on the role of most other general businesses in the town until they were re-established and also the role of a local school where lessons were taught on the verandah.

Within a month of the bushfire, 45 men, women, and children who were camped in tents by the river, were flooded out by heavy rain that burst the river banks – then it snowed. The hotel publican at the time was Bill Chamberlain and he and his wife Rita helped the stricken families with free meals and beds.

The hotel was built in 1925 in the midst of the bush by owner and publican Sydney Wentworth Smith. At the time, it was an enormous building for a small town but one that catered

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During the early 60s, while the hotel was owned and managed by William (Clem) Dunn, Jack Kelly a local Powelltown man sculpted

a series of dinosaurs from bull ferns and they stood amongst the greenery behind the hotel alongside the river. Over the years, they deteriorated and are now long gone but one that remained for many years was the wellknown and well-loved 12 foot T-Rex dinosaur that stood outside the front of the hotel until the late 90s.

Richard, a Noojee resident of two years who has been coming to the town since he was a child said he could remember the dinosaurs amongst huge tree ferns. “When I was a little kid, I used to fish in the river at night with a lantern for blackfish and I had to walk through them. They were all in good nick with big red mouths and teeth sticking out. It was quite a sight.”

From the 70s through to the 90s, the hotel had an infamous reputation. “One night someone rode a horse up the stairs to the rooms and was then kicked out with all his gear,” Richard said.

Two more Noojee residents, Kathy who worked behind the bar and Cookie who helped out in the kitchen and cleaned during those times said the hotel was always packed with people and it was a bit wild. “Many people that worked at the mill came in and truck drivers and then deer hunters on weekends.”

Kathy said in the early 80s, a man came in and threw a tiger snake over the bar at publican Bill Kelsall and later while Alan Prendergast was publican, a man shot up the Hookey board on the wall with a shot gun from behind the bar.

She said publican Bill Kelsall was an older man that hobbled. “He had a long thumb nail that was filed to a point and as hard as a knife and he used to stick it into peoples necks if they gave him a hard time. It wasn’t often because people generally respected him.” The two women said both publicans loved and spoiled children. “There was a bar then and a lounge for families,” Cookie said. “The hotel today is much quieter but it has always been a family pub and it still is.”

Kathy (right) and Cookie both worked in the hotel during its infamous years pictured with current licensee Simon Duck

View over the river with the waterwheel in the background

Current licensee Simon Duck behind the bar

Richard said he remembered someone unsuccessfully trying to cut the tail off the dinosaur with a chainsaw but he hit steel and Cookie said when she was cleaning, every now and then she’d see a pair of women’s undies hanging on its nose. The dinosaur was eventually placed in the hotel garden but later became seriously damaged when two mill workers put a chain around it and dragged it through the main street behind a four-wheeldrive vehicle.

Another eminent object that is located in the Latrobe River behind the hotel is a waterwheel believed to have been built by the original owner to generate electricity. According to hearsay, it was for an illicit gaming room underneath the hotel. The original waterwheel was a large floating structure with wooden paddles. Later during the floods, the water wheel was washed away and another was built of metal and anchored to the side of the river. It can still be seen there today; however, again according to hearsay the water wheels never generated electricity.

In 1998, while the hotel was owned and managed by John Williams, a fire broke out in the upstairs part of the building believed to have been started by a faulty power point or lamp, which caused significant damage. The owner decided not to rebuild the upstairs rooms but instead refurbished the downstairs area and covered it with a new roof creating the Noojee Hotel we know and love today.

The hotel’s current licensee, Simon Duck purchased the business in 2013 from the current owners Michael and Lisa Willems. Simon, a father of five children has a background in transport and has previously owned and managed hotels. During the Noojee Hotel’s 90th year, Simon, with the assistance of local tradesmen Darren Christie and Moose, will add another page to its history with the resurrection and restoration of its iconic dinosaur.

The hotel balcony overlooks the Latrobe River

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Neerim Country Cottages are surrounded by Neerim District's green rolling hills leading to Mt Baw Baw. Self-contained cottage accommodation set on 5 acres of park like gardens provide a relaxing country retreat, ideal for families, reunions and self catering groups.

Outdoor solar heated swimming pool in Summer / Heated Spa / Jacuzzi, Sauna / Games Room / Tennis Court / Children's Playground, BBQ and outdoor camp fire.

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thelifestyle spring 2015

2470 Main Neerim Road, Neerim, 3831 Ph 0435 956 461

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Suppliers of fine confectionary.

Favourites from the past and present, including hard to find products from around the World.

Delicious range of Licorice, Chocolates, Jellies, Musks, Boiled Lollies, Marshmallows, Fudge, Lollipops, Nougat, Cordials and Soft Drinks.

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Open: Wednesday to Sunday 11.00am to 4.00pm 24 Main Street, BUNYIP, VIC 3815 03 5629 6284 thelifestyle spring 2015

47

YARRAGON Vintage Market Amber Rhodes

required to be on hand to run their stall. Customers are free to browse amongst the stalls, picking any items from across the floor, then pay at the counter as they leave.

The new Yarragon Vintage Market has brought together a treasure trove of retro finds, eclectic artefacts, up-cycled goods, vintage clothing and a decent splash of rockabilly; with all of it available under the one roof.

With so many stall holders there is not only a vast variety of items, but it is constantly changing, with more goods arriving every day. “The good thing is,” said Di, “Because we have done it this way, instead of just having a stall with our things, you get such a variety of different people's thoughts and collections; something they have made or up-cycled.”

Di and David McGillivray, with their love of all things recycled, are the drive behind this recent addition to Yarragon, creating a business that is very quickly becoming a destination in its own right.

The Yarragon Vintage Market, is housed in a large building to the north of the highway, and is made up of a collection of 40 stall holders who display their wares independently of each other, but are overseen

by Di, David and a handful of staff members.

Running a market was something the couple had thought about doing for a while, as David had already been a stall holder at a market in Tyabb.

They looked at a few buildings down that way, but then the building in Yarragon became available and they decided to dive right in. “We probably weren't quite ready at the time, but we thought it's now or never, and within a month we'd transformed it from a dirty shed to what you see now,” said David.

The transformation has indeed been impressive, the building is bright, clean and welcoming, and the individual stall holders have outdone themselves, offering a broad range of antique, vintage and upcycled goods.

Di and David spent a lot of time visiting other markets and similar set ups, David particularly learning a

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Many of the stall holders are from Gippsland, which is something that the couple believe is important as they are hoping to showcase Yarragon, the greater Gippsland area, and what other people are capable of producing. The stall holders themselves are all very different, coming from all walks of life. There are husbands and wives, mothers and daughters, university students and a single mum; with the stalls themselves varying just as much. “Paint and Cream” has a lot of cream furniture and has more feminine items for sale, whereas the stall next door has stock with a slightly more masculine feel. lot over the last 15 years, to help them create the perfect arrangement. “We've picked the best parts to try and get it to how we'd like it,” he said. “We had found that some places were crowded, a little grubby, and not very friendly, so we have pushed that side of things. We're working on what we think customers would like, based on our experience and what we would want.”

It is this experience that has led them to think carefully about the layout of the building, with stall holders given their own designated area within the space, but still leaving plenty of room for wide aisles that are wheelchair and pram friendly. The change room is large, making it comfortable for customers, and they go out of their way to always greet everyone who comes through the door.

One stall holder makes hundreds of paper flowers, which fly off the shelves at $3 each, and another stall has a big focus on enamel petrol signs and what is known as 'garagenalia'. There are stall holders who travel overseas to find things to sell, with one lady making trips to England, her stall carrying a range of beautiful English vintage goods. A new addition, to be opening in mid September, will be one filled with American vintage items, stock bought by a lady who goes on buying trips throughout the States.

The set up works wonderfully, not only for customers, but the stall holders as well, who pay a monthly rent to the couple. In return they can set up their stall as they wish, determine their own prices, add new stock when it suits them, but they aren't

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thelifestyle summer 2014-15

“We have a lot of talented people here,” adds David, “The way they think outside the box and put things together is wonderful, they just have an eye for it.”

They also want to work in with the town of Yarragon and the other businesses. People have suggested they run a coffee shop as part of their business but they don't want to take anything away from those cafes already in town. They do plan on landscaping out the front, putting in park benches and setting up shelter, so if people wish to bring food to eat. Once the warmer weather arrives they plan on having sausage sizzles for local charities on Sundays, days with live music, and they hope to draw more people through having theme days, such as car club events, rockabilly days and markets.

Di and David are excited about their stall holders, and the variety of goods they bring to the public.

“We have people who up-cycle in different ways,” said Di. “One lady specialises in jewellery and makes the actual beads. One of the stall holders, who has been sewing since she was 8, makes beautiful vintage style clothes.”

“We want this to be a family friendly place,” said Di. “This is why we are planning on doing up the outside. People can come and have their lunch, bring a picnic and it doesn't make it an expensive day out.”

Inside they also plan to set up the old office as a photography studio, which people will be able to hire, and already they have a local photographer

interested in doing pin-ups, boudoir and glamour shots. They are also looking at having someone come in to do physic readings. Another idea is to have glamour days, where people can come in and learn how to do their hair and make up in the 1950s and 60s styles.

The Yarragon Vintage Market is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as public holidays, from 10am until 5pm.

Yarragon Vintage Market

110 Waterloo Road, Yarragon Ph: 5634 2228 Mobile: 0438 730 383 yarragonvintagemarket@gmail.com Photographs by Amber Rhodes

Antiques Collectible Vintage Retro Industrial Shabby Fashion Trading Hours 10am-5pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 0438 730 383 | 03 5634 2228 thelifestyle spring 2015

49

GIPPSLAND’S

Patrobas in sash with Owner Edith Widdis

FIRST LADY OF THE CUP Chris West

The 1915 Melbourne Cup won by three-year-old colt Patrobas holds particular historical significance on a number of counts. Not only was owner Edith Widdis the first woman to race the winner of Australia’s great race, but a century on Patrobas remains Gippsland’s one and only Melbourne Cup winning hero to date.

In this 100th anniversary year, it is timely to recount the events that led to Patrobas and Mrs Widdis becoming the toast of the Gippsland region following their victory.

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Edith Widdis and her husband John purchased Nambrok House near Rosedale in 1907, which they developed into one of the showpiece properties in the district whilst also raising eight children. Prior to moving to Nambrok in 1908 after completing some renovation works, the couple had previously lived in a home they had built nearby in Flynn before finding themselves in need of a larger dwelling for their growing family.

Nambrok had originally been built in the late 1870s for pastoralist John King, a grandson of the third Governor of New South Wales, Phillip King. The Heritage listed property remained in the ownership of the Widdis family until 1986. It was then sold to the McGauran family, who have long been prominent members the Gippsland community.

Amongst the livestock that John and Edith Widdis kept on the property was a small band of thoroughbred racehorses. After studying the pedigrees in the catalogue for the 1914 Sydney yearling sales, the couple commissioned Caulfield trainer Charles Wheeler to purchase two colts on their behalf. Wheeler approved of both horses when inspecting them in Sydney and managed to secure the pair at a cost 300 guineas each.

The intention was that one would be owned by Edith and John would race the other. Mrs Widdis was known to be an astute judge of horseflesh and did not hesitate to choose the brown colt sired by Victoria Derby winner Wallace when the two yearlings arrived from Sydney.

She could also vividly remember the deeds of Wallace’s own sire Carbine, the iconic 1890 Melbourne Cup winner who remains one of the all-time legends of the Australian turf. Although the newly acquired yearling by Wallace was undersized, Mrs Widdis was captivated by the

colt. The inspiration for his name was found within her daily bible readings. She called him Patrobas, meaning “patriarch” or “following in father’s footsteps”, which she hoped her colt might succeed in doing.

Things didn’t quite go to plan in the early stages of Patrobas’s racing career. He failed to win a race as a two-year-old, including a defeat at the now defunct Rosedale Racecourse, but emerged as a force in his three-year-old season in 1915/16.

engagement for the 1915 Cup and gleefully accepted the opportunity to partner one of the leading fancies. Wheeler was confident that Lewis’s strength and experience would be an asset to Patrobas’s chances in the Melbourne Cup. Twenty four horses contested the race, watched by a crowd of nearly 88,000 people. By race time, bookmakers had trimmed Patrobas’s odds to 8/1, with only four horses shorter in the betting headed by equal favourites Reputation and Lavendo at 5/1.

Patrobas found winning form early in his Spring campaign in 1915. He then stepped up in class and began to contest the major events in Melbourne. His first notable victory was in the Caulfield Guineas, long established as one of Australia’s classic mile races for three-year-olds.

Carrying saddlecloth number 19 in the Cup and with Lewis wearing a rose pink jacket and cap hand-made by Edith Widdis, Patrobas began well and avoided the interference caused to some of the field by three horses falling in the

Edith Widdis then persuaded Wheeler to run Patrobas in the Caulfield Cup against her trainer’s wishes. He ran well in finishing sixth behind Lavendo and was then aimed towards both the Victoria Derby and Melbourne Cup at Flemington.

early stages. Lewis stayed on the rails just behind the leaders for much of the journey until reaching the home straight. He then produced Patrobas for a final effort, where he defeated long-shot Westcourt and Carlita in a thrilling finish.

Just as Mrs Widdis had hoped, Patrobas matched the feat of his father by winning the Victoria Derby in impressive style, with Billy Smart in the saddle. Following his Derby triumph, Patrobas firmed in the betting to 10/1 for the Melbourne Cup, where he would drop in weight to 7 stone 6 pounds in the handicap event over two miles.

Lewis told pressmen following the race that he thought eventual fourth place-getter Garlin looked the likely winner rounding the home turn.

Smart was unable to retain the mount for the Melbourne Cup due to his inability to make the light weight. The ride on Patrobas was offered to Bobby Lewis, who had previously won the great race in 1902 on The Victory.

“Racing up the straight, I was afraid that Patrobas would not respond to my efforts.

Westcourt then appeared the horse that would pass the post first but, fifty yards from home, Patrobas seemed to put on extra pace and I gradually got in front. From the time we entered the straight, it was a hard race,” he explained.

Despite being one of Melbourne’s leading jockeys, Lewis had been left without a firm

“As I was blocked by three horses, not intentionally of course, I had to take the outside running, near Westcourt,” he said.

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FIRST LADY OF THE CUP

In 1915, women were not afforded the same privileges as men on Melbourne’s racetracks and Edith Widdis was relegated to watching the race from the ladies’ grandstand a considerable distance from the winning post. Attempting to follow Patrobas in the charge to the finish, she sat down after the horses passed the post thinking her colt had run a gallant second.

Upon hearing that number 19 had indeed won, the delighted owner told onlookers that she had to excuse herself and make her way to collect the Cup trophy. As no woman had ever before won the great race, it was no surprise that the nearby patrons in the stand were disbelieving of her claim.

She also encountered great difficulty in gaining permission to access to the areas necessary to reach mounting yard and as a result missed the presentation. By the time she arrived, the Governor had already presented the Cup trophy to her husband John in her absence. Sportingly, the Governor reassembled the presentation party and handed the Cup to Mrs Widdis.

With the Great War in its second year, she earned considerable acclaim for dispensing with the usual Melbourne Cup-winning custom of shouting the bar at the Victorian Club and instead pledging a donation of 200 pounds in the name of the Club to the Patriotic Fund.

The design of the Melbourne Cup trophy changed regularly in the race’s early years and took on many shapes and forms. In 1915, the Cup trophy was a large sterling silver rose bowl crafted in London by Barnard Brothers and was valued at the time at 150 sovereigns.

It was a unique piece presented in that year only. The first gold trophy was produced the year after Patrobas’s victory and the current three-handled loving cup designed by James Steeth was introduced in 1919.

Edith Widdis brought the Cup back home to Gippsland, where her success had been rousingly celebrated. It was reported that one

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leading bookmaker Sol Green sent cheques amounting to more than 30,000 pounds to clients in Gippsland. Undoubtedly there would have also been many other happy local punters who backed Patrobas elsewhere. Edith kept the trophy at Nambrok and subsequently moved it for periods to her Melbourne property Cambria near Caulfield Racecourse.

Sadly, Edith was widowed in January 1918.

Following John’s passing, she then spent the majority of her time living in Melbourne, but later returned to Nambrok in 1941 following the death of her only son Allan, who had been occupying the homestead in her absence. Edith continued to run the property and lived until her passing in 1953 at 88 years of age.

Patrobas raced on for two more seasons, adding the VRC St Leger, St George Stakes, Essendon Stakes and King’s Plate to his list of notable victories. He finished his career with nine wins and ten placings from a total of 32 starts. Upon his retirement, Patrobas was initially brought to Nambrok, where he received his own private stable amongst the other horses residing on the property.

Former Mayor of Sale, John Leslie is Edith’s grandson and remembers her with great affection. Now aged 96, John was aged in his mid thirties at the time of his grandmother’s death and had visited her at Nambrok virtually every week over more than a decade.

Edith later relocated Patrobas to Langi, a stud farm she owned near Echuca where he would spend his remaining days. Unfortunately his success as a racehorse was not replicated as a stallion, but the Melbourne Cup win ensured his place in Australian racing history. He remains the only horse to win the treble of the Caulfield Guineas, Victoria Derby and Melbourne Cup, a feat which is unlikely to ever be repeated.

“Gran was a truly remarkable woman and a leader in so many ways,” he states.

“She was a woman of strong convictions and an active citizen in her community, whether at Rosedale or whenever living in Melbourne. We would have long conversations during my visits

Melbourne Cup won by Patrobas in 1915 and almost won the first gold Cup in 1916, which would have been a unique double.”

It gives John great satisfaction and pride that the 1915 Melbourne Cup trophy is now on permanent public display in the foyer of the Sale Entertainment Centre.

“The VRC had wanted it, but our family held a round table conference and agreed it should remain in Sale due to its local significance,” he explains.

The registration of Edith Widdis’s pink silks also remained in the family, being handed down to her great nephew Peter Nixon, who was the Federal Member for Gippsland from 1961 to 1983 during a long career in politics.

to Nambrok and she did love talking about her horses.”

John laughs at a recollection that his cousin Jill had later admitted to being intimidated by Edith when living with her for a period as a child in the 1940s.

“I guess in the eyes of a little girl, gran could be physically imposing. She would always be wearing black and had a commanding presence, so it is perhaps understandable that Jill could have been overawed by her. But in truth there was no need, as gran was just the loveliest person really,” he says.

The Cup became a talking point at John’s home in Sale and accompanied him when he subsequently moved premises to another property in the town. It was also loaned briefly to the Australian Racing Museum as part of an exhibition of trophies at Caulfield Racecourse.

“It was pleasing that large numbers of people were able to admire our trophy,” John says.

“It’s a beautiful piece and although I might be biased, I do think it’s the nicest and best of all the Cup trophies.”

John recalls the movements of the Melbourne Cup trophy following Edith’s passing.

He explains that his family came close to securing a second piece of Melbourne Cup history through Edith’s husband John, just one year after winning the race with Patrobas.

“When gran died my aunt Dorothy, who was her sixth daughter, put it in a bank vault in Sale for safe keeping. Later she decided to give it to me to look after.”

“My grandfather owned a horse called Shepherd King, which came second in the Melbourne Cup in 1916 after having won the Caulfield Cup. So it came to be that we own the last silver

Also helping to perpetuate the memory of the famous 1915 Melbourne Cup triumph is the Patrobas statue created by Moe sculptor Jim Lawrence, which has stood in Prince Street Reserve in Rosedale since 2007. The steel monument adds to the recognition of Gippsland’s finest racing moment.

Over time, numerous women have been involved in the ownership of Melbourne Cup winners and in the future another Gippsland horse may happen to win the ‘race that stops the nation’. But nothing can alter the fact that Edith Widdis and Patrobas will always have the distinction of being the first to achieve those respective feats.

HALLMARKS The Hallmarks on the cup are ‘EB&S’ (Edward Barnard & Sons Ltd) Hatton Garden, London, with a ‘Lion passant’ indicating silver and ‘Leopards Head’ representing London and the letter ‘U’ representing the year 1915.

FOOTNOTE: The 2015 Emirates Melbourne Cup Tour will be visiting Rosedale on Monday, 19th October. Escorting this year’s trophy on that leg of the Tour will be Flemington’s Keeper of the Roses, Terry Freeman and former prominent racing media personality, John Russell, who worked for Radio 3UZ for many years calling over 20 Melbourne Cups in the process.

Historical Photographs of Edith Widdis and Patrobas courtesy of John Leslie Melbourne Cup and Hallmarks Photographs courtesy of Gippsland Art Gallery 2015

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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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Foster Seafoods

Order Your

For all

Fresh 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 56

thelifestyle winter 2014

Moo’s At Meeniyan

Restaurant and Café

Hours of Trading Thursday to Monday 8.30am - 4.30pm Dinner Friday & Saturday Nights from 6.00pm 89 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan Vic 3956 Phone: (03) 5664 0010 | Email: eat@moosatmeeniyan.com.au visit www.moosatmeeniyan.com.au

BEMM RIVER HOTEL Weddings ...for your special day

Call us now to arrange your special day with us and see what we have to offer.

3-5 Sydenham Parade Bemm River, VIC 3889 Phone (03) 5158 4241

Hailey & Ryden Braggins Wedding Images by The Gehrmanns Photography

Kasama Décor

Kasama Décor Unique Gifts & Home Décor 3/31 The Esplanade Paynesville Vic 3880 Phone: 03 5156 1209

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Unique Gifts & Home Décor

SPRING HOURS Monday to Friday: 10.30am - 4.30pm (Closed every Tuesday) Saturday 10.00am - 2.00pm Sunday by appointment only See you soon, Sue Clementson

BEMM RIVER HOTEL BOOKINGS FOR FUNCTIONS, WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS AND ANY EXCUSE FOR A WHOOP UP. 4 Self-Contained Cabins, sleeping 5 plus 1 with 6; BBQ area to cater for your big brekkies; 65kv generator to keep the beer flowing cold and the food hot; and we are also a safer place in fire and flood.

Our dog Charlie is the Mayor of Bemm River Hotel who meets and greets everyone to our fun and friendly Hotel.

Bemm River Hotel 3-5 Sydenham Parade Bemm River, VIC 3889 Phone (03) 5158 4241

Operating 7 days a week from 11am till close.

Meal Hours Lunch 12 – 2 pm Dinner 6 – 8 pm

METUNG FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 2015 Highlights of the Metung Food and Wine Festival, which was held on Sunday of the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend, overlooking Bancroft Bay on the Metung Village Green. A great way for everyone to experience local quality culinary delights and wines in a stunning setting.

Event Organiser Lucy Carson & Patrick Carson

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A small village located on a narrow stretch of land in the gentle curve of Bancroft Bay and Lake King, in a peaceful corner of the Gippsland Lakes, East Gippsland. Metung is approximately 312 kilometres east of Melbourne, a comfortable 3.5-hour drive and situated between Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance, which are only a short commute away. Also, close by are Wattle Point, Paynesville and Raymond Island.

children, overlooking Lake King. You can access by boat the Ninety Mile Beach that has many areas and coves for swimming. Similarly, explore Boxes Creek, Chinaman’s Creek or Nungurner where you can enjoy the sheltered bays.

Whether you are a holidaymaker or local you can also appreciate a stroll along the waterside boardwalk and enjoy the sight of the resident sea eagles and kingfishers as you walk along and observe the daily feeding of the pelicans at the front of the Metung Hotel. This remarkable, natural setting is the haunt of amazing birdlife, dolphins and fish, and a wide range of native animals.

It is not uncommon to see a pod of dolphins feeding in the Bay, and there are seals visiting the lakes as well. One in particular has been spotted in Bancroft Bay outside the Metung Hotel for the past ten years, during Winter through to the end of September, and this year in particular it was a delight to see that she has brought along her pup.

Metung offers a series of water sports and there are so many ways that you can investigate the enveloping waterways; whether you bring your own boat, charter a boat or yacht, or take a cruise. Small runabouts are also available for hire and Metung’s surrounds offer superb fishing.

The Metung Hotel was the first premises constructed on the existing site, built in 1870

by Mr G. Wood and named Rosherville & Scarborough Hotel. The Hotel has had five owners over 145 years, and during that time it was redeveloped after a devastating fire in 1954 and renamed, the Metung Hotel. Renovations have been made over the years with its current owners taking over in 2005, David Strange and Kim McKendrick, who still kept the historical significance of the hotel intact. It is an ideal location to enjoy a meal and a drink overlooking the Bay. The Hotel also offers accommodation and is the perfect venue for a wedding or special occasion.

Also, there is a pleasant sandy beach with a picnic area, which makes it an enjoyable swimming and picnic spot for adults and

You can arrive by boat and moor just at the front of the hotel. Nearby the public Metung Wharf is currently being upgraded which will ensure that

It is a beautiful place to holiday with a wide range of accommodation, a number of shops, restaurants, galleries, wineries, food trails, cooking school, a golf course and a hotel, together with numerous jetties on Bancroft Bay, if calling in by boat.

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the needs of locals and visitors will be met for years to come.

Next door is the Village Green, which is the venue for the famous Metung Farmers Market held on the second Saturday of each month, showcasing local produce and the Food and Wine Festival held on the Sunday of Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. Overlooking the Green and the Bay is Nautica Restaurant and Bar, where husband and wife team deliver gastronomic char-grilled steak, fresh local seafood and regional wine, accompanied by friendly service.

Metung boasts fine art galleries and many cafes. Bancroft Bites, run by a local family, is located in the heart of the village and provides homemade cakes, great coffee and friendly service and source as much local produce to create their menus. Another must visit is the Artizan Kitchen, which is renowned for their great fish and chips, pizzas and Mediterranean style food. You will definitely be spoilt for choice - there even is a fine craft chocolate maker – Chocodence – that individually handcrafts each truffle and fudge.

Another drawcard to Metung is its own resort style golf course, the Kings Cove Club. The greens are stunning, wide, generous and well maintained, ensuring a most enjoyable day’s golfing experience. After a hit, the clubhouse offers coffee or a good assortment of beers and local wines and the café offers an array of delicious meals. Kings Cove can arrange your picture perfect wedding in this beautiful function facility overlooking a peaceful vista, with gum trees lit on-course for a truly impressive backdrop.

A short distance away, you could also explore the lovely bushwalking trails through the Colquhoun Regional Park and a rail trail along the old Bairnsdale to Orbost railway line. Other national parks in the region worth venturing to are the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, The Lakes National Park, Croajingolong National Park and the Snowy River National Park.

Buchan Caves is about 1.5-hour’s drive and provides picnic grounds and walking trails as well as the awe-inspiring caves.

Metung is a truly romantic, beautiful holiday destination, which offers a perfect escape with adventure as well, whether it is boating, fishing, swimming, bushwalking, day trips or just relaxing and dining by the sea.

“The ‘Legend Rock’, an important part of Gunaikurnai mythology, lies in shallow water by the shore of Bancroft Bay opposite the Metung Yacht Club. The story is that some fishermen hauled in many fish with their nets and ate their catch, around a campfire. The women, guardians of the social law, saw that the men had eaten more than enough, but had not fed their dogs. As a punishment for their greed, the fishermen were turned to stone. This story is one of many Gunaikurnai stories that were told, and retold, to show that greed would bring punishment. There were once three rocks relating to the legend here, but two were destroyed by road works. The remaining ‘Legend Rock’ is now protected.” Extract taken from the Bataluk Cultural Trail site.

Local artist, Doug Hadaway created a sculpture of the iron-hulled paddle steamer, ‘Charles Edward’. The steamer became the first regular steam ship between Melbourne and the Gippsland Lakes. The sculpture is erected on the Metung foreshore near Shaving Point, overlooking Lake King.

DINING OUT IN METUNG Artizan Kitchen , Bancroft Bites, Kings Cove Club, Metung Hotel, Metung Yacht Club, Metung Bakery Nautica Restaurant , Sands of Metung

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GIPPSLAND LAKES BARGE SERVICES

OUR BUSINESS OPERATES THREE VESSELS AND SERVICES THE WHOLE OF THE GIPPSLAND LAKES, WHICH HAS BEEN OPERATING SINCE 1966.

THE SAMPSON Perfect for fast transportation of heavy trucks or multiple vehicles. Licensed to carry 12 passengers. In the centre of the craft there is a 300mm diameter “Moon Well” ideal for drilling or taking seabed samples.

THE VICTORY Ideal for transportation of building materials and single light vehicles. The tug “Victory” is available for normal tug duties or recovery.

THE “MV ELSEWHERE” a Private Passenger charter within the Gippsland Lakes.

We put a lot of thought and effort into making your boating experience with us is a memorable one.

the

Metung Hotel

PROVIDES ACCOMMODATION WITH AMPLE CAR AND BOAT PARKING ON SITE.

The Hotel has the perfect spot for a wedding or any occasion, with the most picturesque setting. There is also a private function room for special lunches or dinners, Christmas parties or any event. Choose to dine in the unique waterfront restaurant / bistro overlooking Bancroft Bay in the heart of the village of Metung, the premier resort area in the Gippsland Lakes.

THIS ICONIC PUB PRODUCES LOCALLY SOURCED FRESH SEAFOOD TOGETHER WITH FRIENDLY SERVICE AND AMAZING VIEWS. CALL AND RESERVE A TABLE OR BOOK A FUNCTION

03 5156 2206

Bookings | Enquiries

David Bull 0408 512 568

www.glbargeservices.com.au

OPEN 7 DAYS: 11.00am to Late BISTRO HOURS: 12pm-2pm and 6pm-8pm Kurnai Avenue, METUNG 3904

www.metunghotel.com.au

K I N G S C OV E G O L F C L U B & F U N C T I O N C E N T R E

Kings Cove Club Metung offers a resort style golf course and architecturally designed clubhouse. The course layout challenges golfers of all levels, with 9 greens and 18 tees. Driving range, putting green, electric cart and club hire plus a fully stocked pro shop with all visitors welcome.

Sit down and relax with a superb coffee, a glass of local wine or a light lunch all overlooking the 9th green, Open to the public.

Open Tue - Sun 8:30am - 5pm Lunches available Tue -Sat 11am - 2pm

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Offering a modern and bright function centre that is perfect for all your celebrations.

With a dedicated functions manager looking after everything from planning your big day to small family gatherings and everything in between. We can cater for functions from 20 to 140 guests depending on your event.

For your next Function contact us at functions@kingscoveclub.com.au

Kings Cove Golf Club, Kings Cove Boulevard, Metung em: manager@kingscoveclub.com.au www.kingscoveclub.com.au

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

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

OPENING HOURS Breakfast: Wed to Sun from 8:30am - 3.00pm Lunch: Wed to Sun from 12.00pm - 3.00pm Dinner: Wednesday to Sunday from 5.30pm Closed Monday and Tuesday

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

Like Us on Facebook

Metung Pharmacy Pharmacy Services • Instant prescription service • Free Webster packing • Agent for Diabetes Australia • Discount prices every day • Wide range of fragrances, giftware and over the counter products • Free blood pressure and diabetes check • Professional advice on medications Metung pharmacy is not just a place where you buy your medications from, it's one of the community health care facilities where you can talk to your pharmacist about your medications and general health issues, get the right advice and be on the safe side.

Opening hours are: Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:30pm Sat: 9:00am-2:00pm Sunday and public holidays to be advised

Metung Pharmacy Ph: 5156 2218

Fax: 5294 4764 After Hours: 0458 149 003 Em: metungpharmacy@hotmail.com

69D Metung Road, Metung 3904 www.facebook.com/metungpharmacy

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recipe

LAKES ENTRANCE JOHN DORY & SCALLOPS WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE

Makes 4 serves

Chef Shane Coles

|

Nautica Restaurant and Bar Metung

INGREDIENTS 4 whole fresh John Dory (350-450 grams) 200gm butter

1/2 kg scallops 200gm baby spinach 50ml lemon juice

100mls dry white wine Olive oil Salt & pepper

METHOD Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees. Score fish on both sides, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt & pepper.

Place on non-stick tray and bake in oven for 12 -15 minutes (depending on size of fish).

Place butter in pan with 1tsp olive oil and melt until it foams on medium heat, add scallops and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side until opaque in colour.

Add white wine, lemon juice and season with salt & pepper. Remove from heat and toss through baby spinach.

To serve, place fish on large plate and top with spinach and scallops.

John Dory and Scallops are fresh, locally produced from Lakes Entrance.

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

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

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

BOATING SINCE 1964

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

MEMBER

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The author playing a fish in the upper section of the river.

V I C T O R I A Over the past few issues we have been having a look at some of the trout rivers in our area. This time we will turn our attention to the Victoria River.

The Victoria River starts its life just behind the ski resort of Dinner Plain not far from Mount Hotham. In fact it is so close to Dinner Plain village that there were sewerage problems with the resort in the early days. When the resort was built in the 1970’s its sewerage was not set up at an acceptable standard to handle the alpine environment. Consequently there were a couple of special permits issued for emergency discharges of sewerage overflow from the resort into the river. I am not quite sure that the extra nutrients helped the fish growth. Thankfully that was over 30 years ago and nowadays that problem ceases to exist and we have excellent water quality flowing down the river.

THE UPPER VICTORIA The upper section of the Victoria River flows down from Dinner Plain through a beautiful grassy valley that forms part of Cobungra Station. Cobungra Station is a story itself. It is Victoria’s largest cattle station and was settled in the mid 1800’s. It currently boasts 26000 hectares of freehold and leased grazing land.

The station and the river are both over 1000 metres above sea level. As you drive from Omeo towards the Victoria River you will pass through many kilometres of Cobungra Station. The entry gate and driveway to the main house stand out

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R I V E R

and the large homestead looks magnificent in its position, on a rise, with the mountains in the background and surrounded by high country grazing country and Hereford cattle.

A High Country Hut on the Victoria River.

The upper river leaves the pastures of Cobungra Station and enters an open timbered valley where it is joined by Spring Creek, which is a lovely little fishery as well. Access can be obtained to this upper section of river by leaving Omeo and driving along the Great Alpine Road until you cross the Victoria River. Take the first turn left after the bridge, which is the Victoria River Track, and follow it until you encounter the river. There are several tracks that run from this road to the river but they are only accessible in comparatively dry conditions. Once you reach the river you will encounter a gate that is seasonally closed. When it is open, it is quite a popular 4 wheel drive track and leads you to the upper Dargo River and various other 4WD

locations. There is some seriously steep country in this area that is best avoided unless you are experienced and well prepared.

This upper section of the river is my favourite.

The fish are not large in size but they are a lot of fun on light gear. I usually park near the old bridge that marks Cobungra Station and fish upstream. The river meanders through grassland and tussocks and there are lots of little corners and runs to explore. Overhanging vegetation provides a home for all sorts of insects and terrestrials, which often find their way into a trout’s diet. Although you cannot drive along the river here, as it is part of the station, you can walk upstream for quite a long way. And, it is easy walking and easy fishing.

Where the road meets the river there is a great little rough bush camping area with firewood in abundance. The timbered area downstream of the camping area is also worth fishing.

THE MIDDLE VICTORIA The river continues on its way downstream before emerging and flowing under the Great Alpine Road. For some distance it runs roughly parallel to the road but it is largely overgrown by willows and difficult to fish. I usually avoid this section. It then meets the Victoria Falls Road and closely follows this road until it reaches the falls.

This section along the Victoria Falls Road is always popular with anglers. It provides

The author with an average fish. If you look carefully you can see the fly in the corner of the mouth of this fish that was used to catch him.

They are not all big, but they are all fun!

Mick Rosenboom is pretty happy with this nice brown trout. Fish of this size are fairly common in the Victoria River.

An early season storm passes down the valley.

It did not affect the fishing but the air temperature was lower than the water temperature.

easy access and the fish are often a little larger than the headwaters. Farming activities have changed much of this section. Willows have been removed and tussocks have been replaced with grass. Cattle have been given access to the river and the result is not always good for the fishing or the environment. There are still some nice sections of river that have remained intact. These are the pools and areas to target. Some of these pools are quite deep and hold some good fish. Unfortunately we need to walk past other sections, which are badly silted with eroded banks.

There is a great camping area situated just a few hundred metres off the Great Alpine Road.

It consists of a toilet, fireplaces and tables.

The area is mostly short grass and dotted with native trees. It is situated right on the river. You can literally catch a fish from your tent.

VICTORIA RIVER FALLS As you proceed along the road you will see the spectacular Victoria River Falls on your right hand side. These falls mark the end of the trout fishing in this river. They provide a natural

barrier to the trout, stopping them moving up or downstream. Downstream of the falls, the river runs through a steep sided, largely inaccessible valley for a short distance before entering the Cobungra River. My advice is to stay away from this hostile section of river.

The upper Victoria River has some nice pools and overhanging vegetation provides an ideal habitat for food for the trout.

The road ends at the Falls but there is an old 4 wheel drive track that has now been changed into a walking track that leads down to the junction of the two rivers where the remains of Australia’s first hydroelectric station can be seen. This station was built in the 1800’s to provide power to the gold mines in the area. It

is a fairly steep walk of just under 1 km to reach the ruins but it is an interesting historical site and it also provides access to the Cobungra River for a bit more fishing but that is another story.

When you go for a fish into this river, reserve a little time to check out the other places of interest in the area. It is only a short drive to Dinner Plain village, which is now open 12 months of the year. I love sitting outside one of the café’s enjoying a skinny milk cappuccino and homemade muffin. I even drop “Mrs 5 Star” off there for an hour or two while I wet a line.

Mount Hotham is another 15 minutes further along the Great Alpine Road and a walk around the village and down the ski slopes in summer is always enjoyable. When it’s 40 degrees in Melbourne, it’s only 15 degrees at Hotham.

Let’s not forget Omeo. It is an old gold mining town with a lot of history. Perhaps a beer at the Golden Age, lunch at Twinkles or check out the old Chinese gold mines just a short walk off the road next to the Livingston Creek.

Photographs by Trevor Stow

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On the Waterfront

The Resort was purpose built on the shore of Lake Victoria, Gippsland Lakes, East Gippsland in the 1980’s with 8 lodges.

After it was sold in 2003 an additional 11 lodges were built and a body corporate model was adopted to enable individual ownership of the lodges. The addition of the Conference Centre in 2006, completed the retreat development, and provides a unique base for holiday and business guests alike.

Since taking over management of the retreat in September 2013 our focus has been to continue to enhance the property and ensure our guests have the best possible user experience possible.

Mark and Sharon Bonnor purchased the management rights in September 2013, living onsite with their 2 sons and employed Debbie Leyshan to complete the management team.

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Lake Victoria

Kangaroos live at the retreat and greet you every morning when you open your curtains to enjoy the morning light over the lake or bush.

Dolphins are often seen on the lake feeding or playing in the water. There is an abundance of wildlife, native birds, kangaroos and echidnas.

The Conference Centre caters for up to 100 people for conferences, weddings, events, celebrations, and there are even craft weekend getaways. The Resort management can cater for you or you can organise your own catering.

The Conference Centre is surrounded by bush and with its many windows creates a very relaxing atmosphere.

Waterfront Retreat at Wattle Point 200 Wattle Point Road Forge Creek 3875 03 5157 7517 www.waterfrontretreat.com.au

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

200 Wattle Point Road Forge Creek 3875

Phone: 03 5157 7517

Email: info@wattlepointholiday.com.au

Web: www.waterfrontretreat.com.au

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a Cut Above Chris West

Internationally renowned Traralgon hair stylist Leon Kyriacou attributes much of his success to the solid grounding he received while learning the basic skills of his trade. He can remember the first cut he performed during a one week introductory training course at the Flagstaff College of Hair and Beauty in Melbourne in 1987.

“All I did all week was pensioners’ haircuts to get the feel of the scissors and comb. I was doing the same haircut - the uniform layer which is basically just short back and sides. I must have done that cut fifty or sixty times over that week,” he recalls.

“Once you have that down pat, you can move on from there to the bobs and other more technical haircuts. It is important to master the fundamentals, because the hair styles we see today on the fashion runways and in magazines are all derived from basic templates.”

During his apprenticeship, Leon combined trade school with learning on the job in a salon in Hotham Street in Traralgon that was operated by his now ex-wife and her mother.

“Because it was a family business I didn’t have to hurry to learn too quickly. I was able to take my time,” he says.

“The basics were taught to me very well.

Sometimes juniors are thrown in the deep end too soon, but I was fortunate enough to do a lot of training and attend courses with some of the industry’s best at the time. I teach my own juniors now that the basics and fundamentals are the most important part of their training.”

The solid foundations Leon gained whilst learning his trade have served him well throughout a journey over the past 28 years that has taken him to the world’s leading fashion destinations.

Hairdressing was never on Leon’s radar growing up or even when he first entered the workforce. His is an accidental success story, but ultimately achieved through hard work and perseverance.

Leon was born in Limassol in Cyprus, where he lived with his parents and older sister until his family emigrated to Australia in 1974 when he was nine years of age. Amidst the unrest caused by the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, his parents decided to start a new life in Gippsland.

“We had relatives living here in Morwell, an uncle and aunty, so that that’s where we came,” he explains.

As a young boy, Leon found difficulty adjusting to life in an unfamiliar country.

“I didn’t like it at all at first,” he admits.

“It was hard not having my friends and the rest of our family around any more. My uncle and aunty in Morwell had two kids, but it just wasn’t the same. School was also challenging, but eventually you adapt.”

At the age of sixteen, Leon accepted an offer of an apprenticeship in a welding business owned by one of his dad’s friends.

“Until then, I had no idea what I wanted to do for a career. I didn’t even know what welding was, but was willing to give it a go,” he says.

“However, the timing didn’t work out the best.

There wasn’t much work in steel fabrication at that time unfortunately, so I got retrenched after I finished my apprenticeship.”

By then Leon had married and whilst out of work found himself spending considerable time at his wife and mother-in-law’s hair salon.

“My ex-wife had always been trying to persuade me to become a hairdresser. She could see something in me that I couldn’t see. I love being round people, but I had also loved my first job in steel fabrication and it wasn’t my choice to leave it,” Leon says.

“It wasn’t until I was out of work and hanging around the salon that it became a realistic possibility. I was helping out making coffees and they went to the next step by showing me how to wash hair. From there, one thing led to another and eventually I was told they were looking for an apprentice.”

After giving it consideration, Leon decided to embark on the new career opportunity.

“I thought, why not?,” he says.

Leon commenced his three-year apprenticeship in September, 1987.

“I took to it like a duck to water,” he remembers.

“With the benefit of my previous apprenticeship in steel fabrication, the trade element of my new occupation was easy to adapt to.”

Leon left the salon in 1990 when his threeyear marriage ended and decided to start his own hairdressing business in Traralgon. He established Leon’s Hair Studio in Church Street and took on an apprentice to provide some extra assistance.

“I made some mistakes when going out on my own, but learnt a lot at the same time,” he comments.

“I lost a few clients at first but was able to overcome the early setbacks and slowly build the business up.”

A particularly difficult challenge emerged in June 1999 when Leon’s salon was burnt to the ground. He suspects the fire was the work of mindless vandals, but the culprits were never caught. Insurance issues dragged on for two years, causing Leon to work from home in Traralgon with his new partner Nerida.

“I set up a makeshift salon in our living room so that I could continue to work. The fire affected everyone involved with my business and the resultant insurance delays caused my three staff members to lose their jobs,” he reflects.

Leon’s business never returned to the original premises after the fire damage had been restored. In the meantime, he instead accepted an offer to relocate to another shop across the other side of Church Street on the corner of Seymour Street, where he spent the next eight years. During that time, he also acquired the salon in Hotham Street where he had served his apprenticeship.

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In February 2008, Leon merged both of his salons and moved a short distance to his current premises at Suite 5, 19-23 Seymour Street as a founding tenant in the building complex.

designers to create a look for their models,” he explains.

That initial involvement since has extended to widespread involvement with major fashion shows in Australia and beyond to glamorous international style capitals such Paris and New York.

“Again we had teething problems, with plenty of ups and downs in the business to start off,” he admits.

“The two salons had very different demographics, clientele and pricing structures.

But again we found our way through and it has proved to be the best move I have ever made for the business. These are much larger premises which offer a world class environment and we have been able to focus on being a specialised salon with an emphasis on quality over quantity.”

Leon Hair is a unisex salon. Female and male clients not only hail from all over Gippsland, some even travel from interstate and overseas to seek Leon’s expertise.

trust the cutting of their hair to anyone else. One of those loyal clients is James Leslie-Watt, who travels from Brighton in Melbourne.

“It’s a two hour drive, but it’s worth it,” James says.

“I’ve been going to Leon for six years. He does a really good job and I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” he insists.

“I have a client from Dubai who comes to me around every six months. The contact was made after she saw a client of mine at Melbourne airport and stopped her to ask who cuts her hair.”

For the past decade, Leon has also established a profile and enhanced his reputation through an involvement with fashion shows in Australia and overseas.

Leon’s people skills ensure that he enjoys a great rapport with his clients, many of whom keep coming back year after year and won’t

“In 2006, I was invited to support a stylist with a show in Melbourne. From that I got invited to attend some other shows in Sydney for Australian Fashion Week, working with

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“I have been fortunate enough to work backstage with top Australian designers including Alex Perry and Wayne Cooper and have done a show for Toni Maticevski during Fashion Week in New York,” Leon says.

He appreciates that working at major shows in New York and Paris is a very exclusive privilege.

“Only a team of about fifteen stylists worldwide are afforded this opportunity. I’ve been very lucky. Doing shows is an incredible experience and it makes you think differently in how to approach hair cutting and presentation.Working with the world’s best stylists on the international stage takes you to another level of hairdressing.

Everything has to be done to perfection at an extremely fast pace and with the eyes of the world on you there’s no room for error.”

Leon attributes his ability to work under pressure at major shows to the fundamentals he mastered in his early training. He has no doubt that the prestige of working internationally has broadened his reputation and helped his local business in Traralgon.

“Clients realise that anyone doing shows in Paris and New York must be good at what they do.”

On the Australian fashion stage, Leon’s services are keenly sought at all the major shows each year. He has enjoyed a long involvement with the Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival, where he now performs the role of Hair Director leading a team of 15.

“I direct the look which is a bit different to working behind the chair, but it’s still hairdressing,” he says.

Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival Founder and Director, Jacinta Richmond says Leon’s presence is a great asset to the event.

“He brings so much international experience to the Sunshine Coast and gives us an extra touch of glamour,” she states.

“Leon joined our event in 2009 and has been Hair Director for the past two years. He knows exactly what we do and how we do it. I have so much trust in Leon that I just leave him to it and know it will be right. The way his team operate is incredibly impressive. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite so smooth.”

Leon’s involvement with fashion shows, particularly in Europe, allows him to keep up with the latest trends in hairstyles.

“Europe is the hub where it all starts and is always six to eight months ahead of us with the trends,” he notes.

“I get to see at the styles being modelled on the catwalk, then take the looks and try to interpret them in my own way to bring them to the street.”

According to Leon, the latest trends are a throwback to the 1980s and early 90s, an era during which he progressed from adolescence to adulthood.

“We’re seeing the return of the mullet and the Suzi Quatro look, fringes, longer hair, shorter sides and the undercuts like Jason Donovan had in his Neighbours days,” he reveals.

“It’s quite diverse at the moment. Were seeing the crazy colours and pastels. There’s also a bit more texture in the hair. A lot of the styles are also androgynous, with women having men’s cuts and vice versa.”

A huge asset to Leon’s business is the close association he has formed with prestigious French company La Biosthetique as his supplier of haircare, skincare, make-up and beauty products.

“Everything we do with is with La Biosthetique.

They produce premium products and play a big role in our success.”

But even greater strength is provided to Leon by his partner Nerida and his team of staff in the salon.

“Nerida has been with me through thick and thin. I have just given her a diamond ring that I bought in Antwerp and we are getting married next year. We’ve been together for twenty years, so you can’t say I rushed it,” he laughs.

“I also have an amazing team of staff that I work with. For me, that’s very important.

Without them I wouldn’t be able to do what I do, especially with the interstate and overseas shows which take me away several times a year. I love the fact that I am giving the younger members of my team the opportunities that I have had in the industry.”

Away from work, Leon’s first priority is to spend time with Nerida and their two children.

“Our son Nikolas is nearly fifteen and our daughter Zoii is eleven. It is possible that Zoii might follow me into a career in hairdressing, but Nikolas is showing interest in the medical field, so we’ll see where that takes him.

Whatever they decide to do, I’ll support them one hundred per cent.”

Leon has strived hard to achieve a sensible work/life balance.

“I do love soccer and watching other sports, but nothing gives me greater pleasure than relaxing somewhere with my family or going away together,” he says.

Leon has travelled to Cyprus four times in the last three years, taking Nikolas with him on one occasion.

“I have been gone forty years but still feel a strong connection whenever I return. As soon as I reach Europe I feel at home. It’s hard to describe because equally, the minute I land back here, I feel very Australian again.”

After nearly three decades in his profession, Leon says the learning process never stops.

“I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing journey and I’m still enjoying it as much as ever,” he observes.

There is much for Leon to look forward to next year, with celebrations for both his 50th birthday and impending wedding on the horizon. Despite all that he has achieved in his field, Leon still has a couple unfulfilled professional ambitions which he hopes to tick off as soon as possible.

“I have done Paris three times and New York, but would now love to get the opportunity to crack London and Milan to complete the four biggest international shows. I’m knocking on the door and am sure it will happen.”

Photographs courtesy of Leon Kyriacou

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My Grandfather's Tools The beginning of a lifelong passion

by Trevor Brown

family hadn't let on either, so you can imagine his surprise in finding out. Glenn did wonder why his grandfather was his sternest critic. Keen to see his efforts, grandpa would look over Glenn's early work and offer harsh but always constructive criticism, perhaps even harsher than his high school metalwork teacher.

Grandpa once said to Glenn – 'You're serious about this aren't you?’ - to which Glenn replied 'I am, I love it'.

One day Grandpa showed Glenn the contents of several small suitcases long since stored. On opening them up, Glenn's eyes lit up – they were full of jewellery making tools. 'Glenn, when I'm gone I want you to have these,' says Grandpa, adding 'you can look at them today, but you can't have them until I'm dead, I still want them near me for now.'

'Looking back, I think he was anxious to see his precious tools go to a good home, but also that they would actually be used. I wasn't long into making jewellery, and perhaps he thought by that time I would have decided one way or another.' recalls Glenn. 'I didn't see those tools for another three years. At that time I was working in Ballarat, and I can still remember driving the five hours back to Orbost when Grandpa died. Early next morning my Grandma appeared, saying simply: 'I'm here to make sure you pick up those tools'.

Talk to Glenn Curtis at Bairnsdale based pen makers and jewellers Curtis Australia and one thing is immediately significant – the importance of tradition. It's this sense of tradition that led to an interesting conversation about how people can influence the shape of our lives, long before we're even aware of it.

Glenn recounts a fascinating tale about his journey to becoming an award winning jeweller.

Born and raised in Orbost in Gippsland's east, Glenn had several early influences on his career path. While still young, Glenn started visiting local watchmaker Roy Cope. Patient and generous, Roy would often allow Glenn into the watch making workshop where he repaired watches and clocks. Fascinated by the myriad of specialised tools, Glenn would sometimes be given old jewellery files to take home – the start of a small tool kit. A paper run allowed Glenn to earn money to add to those tools, his grandfather advising him which ones to buy. Ordered through the post from specialist suppliers, Glenn would wait expectantly as the postman got round to delivering the treasure.

While still at Orbost High School, Glenn set up a small jewellery studio in part of his dad's back yard shed. Before his dad Lindsay even knew it, there was a padlock on the door, a window and then a jury rigged power supply from the house.

Now about 16 years old, Glenn started creating

pieces of jewellery to sell. Through the Jolly Jumbuk, a Bairnsdale store, Glenn was able to sell pendants and rings. Regular small cheques started to arrive from the sale of these, and Glenn recalls how generous the owners were with both time and encouragement.

Another key influence on Glenn was his metalwork and craft teacher at Orbost High School, Graham Wright. Having studied gold and silversmithing at RMIT, Mr. Wright was a source of encouragement and expert knowledge for Glenn: 'I was incredibly fortunate to have a mentor like this. While the other kids were making toasting forks, I was making sterling silver rings'.

It's a tradition that continues. Fast forward thirty five years to making eldest daughter Alison's engagement ring, there was a special tool Glenn needed – one of his grandfathers. 'It's a heart warming thought knowing that my grandfather's tools were used to create his great grand daughter's ring, one she'll treasure. 'My younger daughter Megan is also a jeweller,' says Glenn.

'I'm going to ensure she takes these tools under her wing when I can no longer use them.

This way the Curtis family tradition of jewellery making continues and that all important link with the past remains intact.’

Glenn Curtis has been a jeweller for over 40 years. A Fellow and past Secretary of the Gold & Silversmiths Guild of Australia, Glenn has owned and run jewellery stores in East Gippsland since the 1990's, along with his wife Heather.

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

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

thelifestyle spring 2015

Glenn went with his dad to pick the tools up.

'Every time I use them, I remember both a tradition and family,' says Glenn.

So, to grandfather and those tools. Glenn wasn't even aware his grandfather was once a jeweller, much in the way a young boy doesn't always know the full history of those close to him. The

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

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

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'Even though she was grieving, it was one thing on a list of wishes she had promised to see fulfilled.'

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

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

Back to it's former Glory

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.

With 20 rooms designed to meet every one of our guests’ individual needs, you will enjoy beautifully-designed 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

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

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.

BP Service Stations Fish Creek 2 Falls Road Fish Creek Vic 3959 Tel/Fax: 5683 2521 Email: fishcreek@evanspetroleum.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

WIGHTS NISSAN

Lot 1 Princes Highway, Traralgon (03) 51 757777 www.traralgonautomotivegroup.com.au LMCT 11191 81

thelifestyle spring 2014

GARDENING with Q. My roses are coming out in bloom in Spring, but I have noticed the leaves are looking a little tarnished, a sort of burnt look, what do you suggest I do to fix the problem?

A. As we move into Spring after our long cold Winter, many areas have experienced severe frosts.

For those gardeners who have not already pruned their roses back hard, now is the time even if they have begun to shoot. Old foliage, or even new foliage which has begun to shoot, could appear tarnished or burnt. While roses are dormant over Winter, spraying with lime sulphur helps kill off any over wintering fungal diseases.

Colder Winters like we’ve just experienced are beneficial to all deciduous plants aiding in killing of pests and diseases.

Prune your roses back hard and remove any old or damaged foliage to promote vigorous new growth as rose blooms develop on new wood.

Generous feeding will not only promote growth but like ourselves, the healthier we eat the more resistant we are to catching bugs.

Remember to keep an eye out for sucking insects like aphids, mildew and black spot. These are easily controlled with a specialty rose spray.

Q. What are the best vegetables to plant in Spring?

A. As we move into early Spring we often are tempted to plant new season’s vegetable seed and seedling early before Winter has truly past. Sometimes we get away with it and often we have a setback with cold, wet spells having devastating effects on warm season vegetables. Early planting can be more successful if covered protection can be provided while we still have bursts of cold and wet.

As the Spring settles down, being warmer and more stable, planting all our Summer favourites in vegetables and herbs will guarantee success.

CraigGoodman Q. I have clover coming up near my plants. Is it safe to spray the weeds close to the plants and what do you suggest is the best way to go about it?

A. I’m often asked about weeds and grasses such as clover growing close to my plants and how can we get rid of them?

As a general rule glyphosate is safe to use in the home garden. At all times you must avoid direct contact between the chemical and the plant you wish to keep. Early morning is often the best time to spray to avoid wind picking up the chemical and blowing it onto plants or grass that you wish to keep.

Glyphosate only works on plants that are green or stems that are green. If you have established hardy trees with aged trunks, you can spray with ease. In situations where you need to spray very close to more delicate plants, you can shield those plants from the spray by simply using a piece of cardboard to avoid chemical contact with your favourite plants’ foliage.

Be aware, spray drift can distort growth on some plants. Roses are very sensitive to herbicides.

Q. I have planted some geraniums, but I believe they are prone to fungal leaf spots, what do you suggest to eliminate the fungal issues?

Many of our favourites to plant include: Beans, beetroots, cabbage, capsicum, carrots, celery, cucumber, chilli, eggplant, kale, lettuce, mustard, pumpkin, raddish, silverbeet, sweetcorn, tomato, watermelon, zucchini and more.

As you know within each type of vegetable there are many choices and favourites.

For example: carrots – there are several types, long, sweet, round, purple, baby etc. To select your favourites, visit your local Garden Centre and hand select the choices on offer.

A. Geraniums are a very hardy plant. They can be cut back very hard at any time to maintain a well-presented shrub. Pruning and feeding promotes lots of healthy new growth and flowers.

During some humid periods or where plants don’t have good air circulation, foliage can sometimes be affected by fungal problems, such as leaf spot and mildew.

These problems can be easily resolved by spraying them with a fungicide, pruning and feeding.

Q. Is this a good time to start a Herb Garden?

A. Just like Spring vegetables, new season’s Spring and Summer herbs are ready to be planted. Some of these include: Basil, bay laurel, cat grass, cat mint, chervil, chives, coriander, curry, dill, garlic, lemon balm, marjoram, mint, mizuna, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon, thyme and the list goes on.

There is also a collection of animal and insect repelling herbs ready to plant this Spring.

For example, if you have a problem with any of these pests try: Pennyroyal – repels fleas and ants Tansy – repels flies Lad’s Love – repels mozzies Dane – deters dogs

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Again by pruning and feeding your plants, which maintains health and vigour, you will be less likely to have disease issues.

Hope this information is helpful.

Craig

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.

For advice, range and quality we are your destination. For an experience and a garden encounter that will enchant you, we are your destination. For solutions, inspiration and motivation, we are your destination.

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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

Honey began writing novels in 2000.

Before settling down she worked and lived in various remote places throughout Australia. She spent her childhood in Tasmania, growing up in a convict built house. In her late-twenties she was involved in a farm accident, and now lives with the challenges of a spinal injury. Her book of short stories, SIX DEGREES, out in August 2015. She is currently working on her sixth psychological thriller.

8th Annual Coal Creek Literary Festival 2015 The Magic of Words Saturday, October 3 from 11am until 5pm Coal Creek Korumburra

Honey Brown lives in country Victoria, Australia. She is the bestselling author of the critically acclaimed novels RED QUEEN (winner of the Aurealis Award, shortlisted for the Australian Shadow Awards, shortlisted for the Davitt Awards, Highly Commended in the Christina Stead Award),

I love returning to Coal Creek Literary Festival to talk and present. It’s an event close to my heart. The wonderful crew there have always welcomed me and supported me. They’re great champions of new and local writers, and provide an invaluable contact point for emerging writers to meet published writers, and for avid readers to engage with and question the storytellers. I have so many memories of fun audience participation, lots of laughter and absorbing conversation.

Each year the festival gets bigger and better, so this year promises to be brilliant.

THE GOOD DAUGHTER (longlisted for the 2011 Miles Franklin Award, shortlisted for the Barbara Jefferies Award), AFTER THE DARKNESS (Woman’s Weekly Great Read, 2012 Get Reading “50 Books You Can't Put Down”), DARK HORSE (winner of the 2014 Davitt Award) and THROUGH THE CRACKS.

www.coalcreekliteraryfestival.com Facebook: Honey Brown

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 84

thelifestyle spring 2015

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

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.

“WORKING FOR YOU” 24 Hotham Street, Traralgon

1300 888 111

info@awib.com.au Christmas Hours – Open 5 days a week 9am – 5pm except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day

www.awib.com.au

Jindi Farm Amber Rhodes

BUSH FOODS

Just past Jindivick, nestled against the Nangara Reserve, sits Jindi Farm Bush Foods, where Leslie Smith produces a range of bush food products made from plants grown on the property. With the help of her family the 15 acre farm, which was purchased three years ago, provides the ingredients for the foods Leslie now sells at markets around Gippsland and in various retail outlets.

At the time she was working at the Baw Baw Shire council, and although it was a job she loved, and one she was grateful for the opportunities it had given her, the fire made her realise that what she really wanted wasn't more, but less. She wanted to be able to spend time with her children, being a mother first and foremost, and spend her days in a pair of gumboots working on the land.

Leslie, who was originally living in Melbourne with her eldest son, decided to move to Labertouche to be closer to her mother, and also give her son the chance to grow up away from an urban environment. They purchased a property next door to her mother where they lived for the best part of 15 years. When Black Saturday hit they were fortunate to not lose their home, but the property and livestock were destroyed, and the impact of the fire made her re-evaluate her life.

“I have this absolute yearning inside of me to just be on the land,” she said. “I have a calling to be on the land and to produce as much as I can from the land. There's nothing more satisfying than to sit down to a meal and every single element on that plate has come from your property. I love it.”

“You go through something like that and you do re-evaluate,” said Leslie. “It does make you think am I happy? Is this what I want to do.”

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thelifestyle spring 2015

The bush foods were really something that came about by chance, as after the fire Leslie knew she needed a fresh start. She used to drive by the Jindivick property to take her children to the Nangara Reserve and she always wondered what the house was like, trying to imagine how the lives were of the people who lived there.

After Black Saturday she felt like they were in a goldfish bowl, with all the people driving past to have a look, there was just no privacy. She needed to start again, and somewhere she wasn't going to drive down the road and see burnt trees all the time. It was during one of her drives through to the reserve that she noticed that property was for sale, and deciding to throw caution to the wind, she went up to the house to have a look, which led to them putting in an offer.

When they bought the property the bush foods were already in the ground, although at that stage the business didn't exist. “Having the bush foods there was interesting, but it was not the reason we bought the property. It just slowly grew from there,” said Leslie.

Now they make dukkah, relish, jams, chutneys and biscuits and they sell the Mountain Pepper Berries that are grown there. About an acre of land is used to grow the foods, with plans for expansion already starting to take shape.

Other plants on the property include Lemon

Mountain Pepper with the berries

Mountain Pepper

Sourdough Biscuits

Selection of Products

Dukkah and Pepper Rub

Area that they are going to develop with new plants and the Landcare trial

Lemon Myrtle

Myrtle, Davidson's Plum and Warragul Greens, and Leslie will use a mix of the berries, seeds and leaves to create her bush food products.

A recent Landcare grant has been put in place to look at how the plants grow under different conditions, depending on mulch levels as well as different water regimes that will go with each of the rows. She will monitor and measure these and see what combination of factors will help the plants to grow better. As currently there is not a very big commercial market for bush foods Leslie has found that there has not been a lot of research for those wanting to produce bush foods on a commercial scale. She has done a lot of personal research and has found that as it is such a small niche industry that those involved are incredibly passionate about it and more than willing to share their knowledge.

Having only started the business six months after buying the property Leslie has come a long way, with her learning curve growing steadily with the business itself. “I haven't wanted to rush into this and be overwhelmed,” she said.

“I'm growing with it. If we can make an income out of this that's fantastic, and when it grows I'll be ready for it.”

Bush Food preserves

Davidson's Plum Round Leaf Mint Bush

The trees and plants are ready to harvest at different times, although the Lemon Myrtle can be picked all year round as they use the leaf. The Davidson's Plums have only recently produced their first fruit and Leslie has been busy drying the plums and extracting the seeds.

The Mountain Pepper berries are picked, which she then dries, and can be milled to use in various dishes, and these have a lovely kick of heat to them. Harvest is a busy time but the family all pitch in to help. As of yet she doesn't hire any staff but she feels that eventually they will grow and have more varieties of plants. She plans to try other varieties such as herbs, Salt Bush, River Mint and some currants. With only an acre currently being utilised for their plants they have plenty of room to grow.

Warragul Greens

Homes and Gardens show. Her products can also be found at a few retail outlets, such as Warragul Lean and Green, Yarragon Food and Wine, Gumboots in Yarragon and the Sherwood Park Orchard in Bunyip.

Jindi Farm Bush Foods Ph: 5628 5378 www.jindifarm.com.au Photographs by Amber Rhodes

Jindi Farm Bush Foods can be found at farmers markets around Gippsland, such as Jindivick on the first Saturday of the month, Morwell on the second, Warragul on the third and then Inverloch on the fourth Sunday.

Come September Leslie attends many fetes, and she also has a stand at the Royal Melbourne Show, the St Kilda Festival and the Better

Mountain Pepper

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Reflections

ofYarram Photographs by Becca Smith

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

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

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

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

WIGHTS HYUNDAI

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

JARROD CHURCHILL

3mFM Personality

Friday between 11am and 1pm, at 16 years of age. The show was called Tonk Fest, aimed at a young audience, with music and guests from the school that he attended.

In 2004, Jarrod completed a traineeship in broadcasting with the then radio manager Alan Clement, which clinched a solid background in this medium.

Jarrod Churchill, Production Manager of Local Radio 3mFM and is the current Breakfast Host from Monday to Friday between the hours of 7am and 9am.

He has had this joint role for over eighteen months and is very settled and enjoying life back at the radio station.

Of course things do change in the course of time, as Jarrod was originally with the station fifteen years ago and was running a show every

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Along the way Jarrod found himself in Western Australia working for BHP mines for six months, but the lure of living in Gippsland played on Jarrod's mind and he was back home working with his father at GM & GM Churchill, well known and reputable builders in Wonthaggi.

Besides broadcasting, Jarrod is also a qualified carpenter.

Jarrod is born and bred in Wonthaggi. Currently, he and his wife Sharon and two girls, Isla aged 5 and Norah aged 1, live a very enjoyable lifestyle on their 16 acre property in the rural area of Glen Alvie and have been living there for the past three to four years. Jarrod and Sharon will

be celebrating their 8th year of wedded bliss in October.

Additionally, he has an involvement with the Rotary Show that is on air between 11am and 12pm every Friday. Along with Ian Turnbull, current President of the Inverloch Rotary Club, they discuss a number of various issues that are related to rotary clubs in general.

3mFM is Jarrod's passion. Moreover, he is a trained Voice Actor and sits comfortably on either side of the microphone, as a presenter or a producer.

The future of 3mFM is in safe hands with Jarrod, his enthusiasm is certainly not questioned, his skills in the tasks that he undertakes is totally professional and caring, he has grown with the changes along the technical side of radio; and 3mFM is all the better for it!

88.1 CENTRAL, SOUTH GIPPSLAND 89.1 PHILLIP ISLAND, BASS COAST 89.5 FOSTER, YARRAM, TIDAL RIVER

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and streaming on www.3mfm.com.au Join in our success! As a listener you're welcome phone: 5674 1900

email: radio@3mfm.com.au find us on Facebook

web: www.3mfm.com.au

DARREN BERRY

KEEPING PERSPECTIVE Chris West

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“As much as I enjoyed the early part of my childhood in Doveton, looking back I’m really glad we made the move,” he says.

Berry completed Grade 5 and 6 at Primary School in Wonthaggi, before progressing to Wonthaggi High School.

“As a young boy I was mad on sport and growing up in the 80s the sporting environment in Wonthaggi was second to none. I played everything, but the two sports that really took my fancy and that I was best at were cricket and football, like most country kids,” he states.

For as long as he can remember, Berry was always competing above his age level.

“When I first started playing cricket in Wonthaggi I would play juniors in the morning and field for the seniors in the afternoon.”

At just 45, former Victorian cricket captain and wicket-keeper Darren Berry has already endured more personal heartbreak than most people experience in a lifetime.

Berry was showing outstanding talent by the age of thirteen. His wicket keeping skills, particularly the ability to stand up to stumps to fast bowling, was making people take notice.

He learnt that art by circumstance rather than by design.

Being exposed to these tragedies has altered Berry’s perspective on life.

“It gives you a greater appreciation of what you’ve got and the people around you,” he says.

“I’m thankful for the people that I’ve had in my life. My wife Katherine and my three kids are so special to me and to have them so close to me means everything.”

Berry was born in Melbourne in December 1969 and spent the first ten years of his life growing up in the no frills, working class suburb of Doveton in the outer south east.

“My parents Roy and Norma were quite elderly when I was born. Dad was fifty and mum in her early forties. They already had four children and there was a seventeen year gap to me, so it’s fair to say I was a mistake,” he laughs.

“It was a tough environment growing up in Doveton, but I have some great memories from that time.”

Berry was ten years old when his dad retired from his carpentry job and decided to move the family to Wonthaggi in search of a better lifestyle. By then Berry’s older siblings had left home and all four of them remained in Melbourne rather than following their parents and him to Gippsland.

“I jumped at the chance to open the batting with Steve and keep wicket at Outtrim.”

Berry played for OMK for two seasons, during which time he started getting selected for Victorian State and Country Victorian representative squads at Under 16 and Under 19 level. During one trip to Perth with the Victorian Under 16 team, the squad was coached by Doug Rumble who was wicket keeper for Fitzroy-Doncaster’s 1st X1 in the District Cricket competition in Melbourne (now known as Premier Cricket).

“Doug predicted I would play for Australia and on his recommendation Fitzroy-Doncaster recruited me,” Berry notes.

“One week I was playing for Outtrim then the next week made my First eleven debut with Fitzroy-Doncaster.”

At the time, Berry was still attending Wonthaggi High School and relied upon his parents to transport him to and from Melbourne to train and play.

“We commuted every week and the hours and upon hours that mum and dad spent driving me around was incredible. We’d do the round trip to Melbourne as often as three times a week and they would sit in the car and wait for me.

That routine went on for two to three years and I will be forever grateful for everything they did for me.”

From the passing of both parents when in his early twenties, to the premature loss of cricketing mentors John Scholes and David Hookes and more recently witnessing the tragic on-field incident that led to the death of batsman Phillip Hughes, Berry has had to find the strength to pick himself up from major setbacks on several occasions.

“Nearly all the people that I have been closest to in my life have died,” he laments.

“Steve and Doug met with my parents to speak about me playing for the club and they both became great influences in my early development as a cricketer,” he says.

“Back in Doveton when I was about eight or nine, I would hang out with older kids who were around fourteen or fifteen. At the end of the street there was a vacant block which we referred to as The Paddock, where we would mow a strip and mark out a cricket pitch,” he recalls.

“Australia’s wicket-keeper Rod Marsh was my hero, so I would always want the gloves.

The trouble was there was a fence behind the stumps only about two metres away. Without any room to go back, I had no choice but to stand up to the stumps. That’s how I learnt, keeping to bowling with taped up tennis balls.

When I went to Wonthaggi and started playing, at first they wondered who this little smart arse was standing up to quick bowling.”

Upon reaching his teens, Berry was ready to compete with the men at senior level, but the Wonthaggi Rovers only had a B Grade team so he changed clubs to Dalyston after one season.

“My A Grade captain at Dalyston was the late Keith Delooze, who was also a highly respected footballer for Phillip Island,” he remembers.

“I had one season there before moving to Outtrim Moyarra Kongwak in the Leongatha and District competition, which was known to be a better standard of cricket than the local Wonthaggi competition.”

Berry was invited to Outtrim Moyarra Kongwak by the club’s A Grade captain Steve McNamara and administrator Doug Close.

Berry says the dedication of his parents was widely recognised throughout the Wonthaggi community.

“Everyone in the town could see how much my mum and dad supported me. As a father of three myself now, looking back I realise just how lucky I was. Without them, there’s no way I would have achieved what I was able to do and I regret that they didn’t live long enough to see my career unfold.”

Berry’s father Roy was not a cricketer, but did show considerable prowess in other sports.

“Dad grew up in Tasmania and was an excellent footballer, captain/coaching several A Grade premierships. He was also a Tasmanian boxing champion in his weight division. The sporting genes didn’t really pass on to the other kids in our family, although one of my older sisters Diane was a very good swimmer.”

While cricket was Berry’s first priority, he did inherit his father’s love of AFL football and a fair slice of his talent. He played senior football for Wonthaggi Rovers at 15, before progressing to St Kilda at Under 19 level and later enjoyed a brief stint as runner for his beloved Saints during Grant Thomas’s tenure as coach.

But it was on the cricket field that Berry excelled most. In the late 1980s, he was one of four Victorians drafted into the Australian Cricket Academy at the Institute of Sport in Adelaide in its inaugural year under the tutelage of Jack Potter.

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Berry’s final year as a player in 2003/04 was a roller-coaster of emotions; a mix of despair and ultimately triumph over incredible adversity as he captained Victoria to a fairytale win in the Sheffield Shield final (known in that season as the Pura Cup).

The fateful twists and turns started prior to the season when Victoria’s former coach John Scholes died of a heart attack in July 2003.

Scholes had been a revered figure in Victorian cricket through his deeds as a player and coach with the state side and at Berry’s district club Fitzroy-Doncaster.

“John had probably been the biggest influence in my life. He had become like a second father to me after my dad died,” Berry recalls.

Losing Scholes had been difficult enough, but then during the course of the season Berry and his Victorian team mates were dealt a second hammer blow when they were rocked by the passing of their coach David Hookes.

“Again I was one of the youngest in the group,” he remembers.

Hookes lost his life in unthinkable circumstances in January 2004 when out socialising with friends and players from the Victorian and South Australian teams at a hotel in St Kilda.

The popular 48-year-old coach and former Test star was felled by a punch from a security guard during an altercation and did not recover from his injuries.

Upon completing his year at the Academy, Berry remained in Adelaide to pursue a potential opportunity rather than making an immediate return to Victoria. South Australia’s wicketkeeper at that time, Peter Anderson, decided to return to his home state of Queensland and thereby opened the door for an aspiring new gloveman.

“Hookesy had been another great mentor to me both in my days in Adelaide and then when coming to coach us in Victoria. His passing was unbelievably hard for everyone in the team,” Berry reflects.

“Peter Anderson was the best wicket-keeper I saw in Australian cricket. He was an absolute gun, but also never got picked for the national team,” Berry observes.

“I was ready to go home, but South Australia’s captain David Hookes told me that if i stayed on I would be a big chance to play for the state, so that’s what I did. I played for one season in 1989/90, but my dad died of cancer and I wanted to come home to support my ageing mother. Deep down, I also had a burning desire to play for Victoria.”

Nicknamed “Chuck” after the American rock and roll singer, Berry became a key member of the Victorian Bushrangers team from 1990/91 to 2003/04. He set a new record mark of 129 Shield games for the state, which has since been surpassed only by Brad Hodge. It was widely accepted by fellow players and cricket pundits that Berry was extremely unlucky not to be rewarded with Test selection at any stage of his long and decorated career.

In his book Out Of My Comfort Zone, former Australian captain Steve Waugh names Berry and batsman Jamie Siddons as the best Australian players he has seen who did not get the opportunity to represent the country in a Test match. By coincidence, both cricketers played for Victoria and South Australia during their careers and Siddons has succeeded Berry as coach of South Australia for the upcoming 2015/16 season.

As much as missing out on Test selection hurt him, Berry accepts that his fate was governed largely by timing. Throughout his fifteen year career, Australia was extremely well served firstly by the exemplary Ian Healy and then the dynamic Adam Gilchrist, who lifted the batting expectations for wicket-keepers to a whole new stratosphere.

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“For the first nine or ten years of my career, Healy was untouchable and then along came Gilchrist. I think it would be fair to say I was generally regarded as a superior keeper to him, but I couldn’t compete with his batting,” he comments.

Berry does possess a Baggy Green cap, which was presented to him upon being suddenly drafted into the Australian touring squad in England in 1997 as the reserve wicket-keeper to Healy when Gilchrist was sidelined by an injury. The call-up came while Berry and his newly wed wife Katherine were enjoying their honeymoon.

For six weeks, Berry dutifully performed the role of understudy to Healy during that Ashes tour but circumstances never conspired to hand him the moment on cricket’s biggest stage he had dreamed about since a boy and that his talent deserved.

“I spent the whole time in England trying to break Healy’s hands,” he jokes.

Berry is proud to own his Baggy Green cap, but regards it as “unfulfilled” given that it wasn’t ever emblazoned with a Test number.

“From standing up to the stumps in Doveton and growing up in Wonthaggi, all that I wanted to do was wicket-keep for Australia,” he says.

Berry has also rekindled his media career with Triple M in Adelaide, where he calls AFL football and hosts a Saturday morning sport show.

In dealing with all the challenges that have been thrown at him, Berry emphasises the importance of having such a supportive wife.

“One of the great highlights of my life has been getting married to a wonderful lady. Katherine has been a rock through everything.”

Originally from Cranbourne, Katherine met Berry through her friendship with the daughter of one of his older sisters.

“When my dad died, we went back to my sister’s house. Katherine was there. I was a bit grumpy and she just put her arm around me and gave me a cuddle. That was twenty five years ago,” Berry recalls.

Berry holds many happy memories from the years he spent Gippsland and he continues to have close ties with the region.

Somehow the Victorians retained enough focus to reach the 2003/04 Pura Cup final against Queensland at the MCG in March 2004. The match went Victoria’s way and Berry was waiting gleefully behind the stumps when Queensland’s Joe Dawes edged a delivery from paceman Mick Lewis into his gloves to seal the title.

“Some of my best friends in life are from my days in Wonthaggi. I was good friends with Guy Freene from Korumburra when we were growing up and he was best man at my wedding.

Another close friend who has remained loyal throughout my journey is Michael Scott, who was a school mate in Wonthaggi and a local golfing champion. The same applies, strangely enough, to my former Year 12 Coordinator and teacher at Wonthaggi High School, Dennis Vague, who coached my footy team the Wonthaggi Rovers to a senior premiership in the 1990s. He too has been a great mate and supporter of mine over many years, regardless of our age difference.

“It was a very emotional time after everything we’d been through. I was captain of the Pura Cup team and Cam White was the skipper of our one-day side that year. To have two Gippsland boys leading Victoria was a very proud moment,” Berry says.

As satisfying as that victory was, Berry remembers feeling emotionally spent in the aftermath and knew it was time to contemplate his future.

“The grounding I had in Wonthaggi really helped me. The town and the people nurtured me. I know they are proud of what I went on to achieve in going from the local B Grade team to setting a games record for Victoria and captaining the state to a title success.”

“We had lost John and David, plus Katherine had given birth to our first baby girl at the beginning of the season in October. Life was changing for me. I reached the conclusion that at thirty three I was not going to play for Australia. That dream had gone. I decided that the Pura Cup win was a great way to finish and that it was the right time to bow out.”

Berry had already experienced a taste of media work at Melbourne radio stations Sport 927 and SEN 1116 towards the end of his playing days.

“It was David Hookes who encouraged me to explore these opportunities,” he remarks.

His media work widened to include calling AFL football on radio with Triple M in Melbourne and K-Rock in Geelong. He published a book about his life and career titled Keeping It Real soon after finishing his playing career.

After just one season away from cricket following his retirement, Berry commenced a new involvement in the sport as a coach.

He firstly spent two years coaching Carlton at district level before being appointed as assistant to Victorian coach Greg Shipperd for a further two seasons. To broaden his coaching experience, Berry went to the Indian Premier League for three years as assistant to his great mate Shane Warne at the Rajasthan Royals.

For the past four years, Berry was coach of the South Australian Redbacks in the Sheffield

Shield. On the back of that appointment, he has also been guiding the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash 20/20 competition. The Strikers finished on top of the table last season, but were defeated in their Semi-Final.

The past season was marred by the death of Australian batsman Phillip Hughes when playing for South Australia against New South Wales in Sydney in November.

“To witness that terrible event before my eyes really knocked me around,” Berry admits.

Following the Hughes tragedy, a shattered Berry took some time away to try to deal with yet another personal loss and will no longer be coaching either the Redbacks or Strikers in 2015/16. With his family well settled in Adelaide, he has decided to remain based there for the time being. He and Katherine have no desire to unsettle their two daughters Jordan, 11 and Grace 10, and son Max, 7 at the mid point of a school year.

Berry is not sure where the next chapter in his life will lead him and his family.

“We’ll wait until Christmas, assess things and see what opportunities present themselves.

We’re considering all options and possibilities at the moment. I have no doubt I’ll come back to cricket at some point. I definitely want to coach again, it’s just a matter of finding the right opportunity,” he insists.

Victoria Cricket Association Images are courtesy of Getty Images South Australia and Adelaide Striker Images courtesy of South Australian Cricket Association OMK Cricket Club images courtesy of Steve McNamara

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

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

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

FOR BOOKINGS and PRICES CONTACT

Doug and Helen 03 5184 1392

Email: dunkineely3971@gmail.com Advertisement

As your representative in State Parliament, I invite you to contact me if I can be of assistance with any State Government matter.

My team and I can provide you with advice and assistance on a variety of State Government matters including: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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Authorised by Russell Northe, 66 George Street, Morwell, VIC 3840

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Funded from the Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications budget

Melbourne Furnishing Co est 1910

Café Hours Thursday to Sunday Nursery Hours Wednesday to Sunday

10.00am - 4.00pm 10.00am - 4.00pm

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Saturday: 9:00am – 12:00pm Phone: (03) 5672 1027 119 Graham Street, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995 www.furniturehouse.com.au

5021 Hyland Highway, Won Wron, 3971 Ph: 5189 1243

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PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICE AND IMAGE PRINTING FOR THE PHOTO ENTHUSIAST

Large Format Custom Photo Printing onto a variety of materials including Canvas, Premium photo papers, Watercolour art papers, Sticker material.

We can still develop and print your pictures from film including traditional B&W material.

Photo Lessons either as a group or an individual tailored “one on one” sessions.

Our commercial photography includes product photography, houses and buildings for real estate purposes, aerial and landscape images, industrial photography.

We operate a modern Studio to cater for all your portrait photography needs including model portfolios, gorgeous family groups, baby and maternity sessions, classic and character portraiture, corporate headshots for business promotion and business cards.

We also help many local artists record their creative artworks including 3 dimensional art and sculpture, paintings, drawings and pastel work, quilting work.

We offer a custom picture framing and laminating service to top it all off.

Shop Hours are 9 - 5 Weekdays | 9 - 12:30 Saturdays 72 McBride Ave Wonthaggi 3995 Phone 03 56721411 Visit our online galleries at www.foons.com.au thelifestyle spring 2015

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Mural by Local Artist Deniis Leversha

WONTHAGGI CITIZENS’ BAND The love and support for the Band by the community over 105 years.

In the early years of Wonthaggi’s history, the Band played a significant role in leading the funeral processions of miners who were killed whilst working underground.

Come forward 100 years to 2010, when the Band celebrated its centenary. To mark the occasion, a free concert was held in the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, on the afternoon of Saturday the 8th of May. Mr Alan Brown, the Band’s patron, was asked to speak. Alan’s father, Glen, was the Band’s secretary for many years during the 1950’s and 60’s. During his speech, Alan announced that he was that night launching an appeal to raise $100,000.00 for the Band. He already had pledges of some $30,000.00. He then called on those in the audience to indicate

Perpetuity Fund Plaque

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their preparedness to donate $1000.00 each.

People in the audience then began calling out their family names, and within 15 minutes some $23,000.00 had been pledged.

Alan’s appeal ran for another 6 months with donations being brought forward into what was then my solicitor’s office in McBride Avenue; and with interest accruing on the term deposit that was created, the $100,000.00 was raised. That term deposit, held at the Bendigo Bank in Wonthaggi has a current balance of $115,285.39. The Band is entitled to use the interest only, for the purchase and repair of instruments and uniforms. The Band either adds to the fund to keep up with CPI, and so can only spend up to what then becomes the “capital amount” of the fund. To date we have

purchased two instruments, and likely some $5,000.00 was used for the purchase of a new Bass, for rising star player, Will Brusamarello.

Numerous individuals, organisations, companies, the State Government and the Bass Coast Shire donated to this Perpetuity Fund. The list of all donors is displayed in the foyer of the Band room. It is tangible evidence of the community’s love for this Band. We will always be indebted to Alan Brown for his initiative in calling on the community to support the Band in this way.

It was during our centenary year that I engaged local artist, Dennis Leversha, to paint a mural of an early Wonthaggi Band, for erection above my office.

Wonthaggi Citizens Band Rooms

Buy A Brick Plaque

Band at Wonthaggi Centenary Street Parade

Another example of this love and support for the Band, was when we built the new Band room. The then member for Bass, Ken Smith, told our committee that if the Liberals became the government that $80,000.00 would be provided to build a new Band room. At that stage we were planning a small extension to the old building.

When there was a change in government, I think about 2010, we then realised we could perhaps pull the old premises down and construct a new building. Three generous persons had bequeathed varying amounts to the Band in their Wills, years earlier; and from other funds accumulated from our catering at Woolamai races and profits from our annual concerts, we were able to construct the current premises. A

Photo Courtesy of Mark Drury - L-R Alan Brown, Treasurer -Chris Longstaff, Vice President - Paul Jamieson, President - Michael Kershaw

‘buy a brick’ appeal raised another $43,000.00 from the community. We also took out a loan of $50,000.00 from Bendigo Bank.

We own the land on which the building was constructed; which in itself is a rare thing amongst Victorian bands. Often the land and premises are council owned.

The third example of the Band’s standing in the community is in the form of our annual variety concerts. Held in October, in the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre; these events have over the years become hugely successful; with several of the concerts being “a full house”.

Crucial to the popularity of these concerts has been a realisation on the part of Bandmaster, Craig Marinus, as to what the audience

appreciates. It is not therefore a Band playing to show how technically proficient it is, but more to choose music that is entertaining. In addition, Committee member, Kirk Skinner a musical director in his own right, and currently head of music at Newhaven College was instrumental some 10 years ago of introducing variety to the concert by bringing on stage, vocalists. Initially these singers were sourced from Melbourne, but for the past five years or so, Kirk has brought along local singers, who the audience relate to better in any event.

The Band is a not-for-profit community organisation and provides music for events, such as ANZAC day and Carols by Candlelight across the region and feature in many other community celebrations and events.

Band Rehearsing in their Rooms

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Centenary TWF

As a member of the Victorian Bands' League, the Band competes in the B Grade section at competitions and currently remains the only B Grade brass band in country Victoria.

The Band consists of all ages; from one as young as rising star player, Will Brusamarello on Bass to Don Edwards, who is a long time playing member, and at the age of 82 years still wonderfully contributes and plays tenor horn.

New members are always welcome.

By Chris Longstaff, Treasurer and Life Member of Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band Centenary Photographs courtesy of Foons Photographics

This year’s concert will be held on Saturday the 17th of October.

For the first time, tickets will no longer be sold at my McBride Avenue office, following my retirement at the end of March.

Instead they can be purchased at the RACV shop, 107 Graham Street, opposite the theatre.

Proprietor of RACV shop, and great supporter and participant in the Arts, Wayne Maloney has offered to assist in this way. Telephone reservations can be made on 5672 1259.

Brusamarello Family

Will on Bass

WONTHAGGI NEWSAGENCY A Wide Range of Art Materials is Available

31 Murray Street, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: 5672 1256 Monday to Friday 6.30am to 5.30pm | Saturday 6.30am to 2.30pm | Sunday Closed 102

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Having stood proud and strong on the corner of Murray Street and McBride Avenue for a century, the Taberner’s Wonthaggi Hotel is an icon of the local area. The grand old dame, colloquially known simply as ‘The Whalebone’ in town, celebrates its 100 year anniversary in November 2015.

A true local institution in name and in nature, the hotel has been owned or run by a member of the Taberner family since the grand opening on Melbourne Cup Day November 3rd 1915, and was one of the first permanent buildings to be constructed in the township, constructed by founding owner, Charles Taberner. “He was a little bit entrepreneurial in that sense,” says Greg Taberner, grandson of original owner Charles. “He could see that the town was going to grow from a small mining community, so he purchased the land in 1910, obtained the licence for the hotel in 1914, and opened in 1915.” The double storey red brick cost £5000 to build.

Construction of the Taberner's Wonthaggi Hotel

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and initials in the bones,” explains Greg. “But in order to preserve the bones for the future, we coated them in fibreglass to ensure their protection.” Now the bones stand white and bright, acting as an archway carved by the hands of nature and preserved for all time. A photograph of young Wally, son of Charles and father of Greg, standing proudly by the whale, is still on display in the hotel to this day.

It was also Charles’s idea to purchase and erect the famous whale jawbones at the entrance to the hotel. Sold for £25 in 1923, the giant bones were rescued from the remains of a 74 foot whale that washed up on Wreck Beach out the back of Wonthaggi. Since their instillation at the front of the hotel, the jawbones have drawn visitors from the local area and abroad, and still stand in place to this day. “It become a bit of a tradition for visitors to carve their names

Jaw bones of 74ft whale 1923 photograph from Gerard Wardell Collection

The jawbones may not have changed much in the past 90 years, but the hotel itself has proven to be resilient, and has efficiently kept up with the times. “Hotels change all the time.

Where the lounge is now, it used to be a series of downstairs bedrooms and a barber shop,” says Greg.

that have owned or run the hotel since the first foundations were laid down, Taberner’s Wonthaggi Hotel is a local institution that will surely remain in the heart of the township for another century to come.

Taberner’s Wonthaggi Hotel celebrates its 100th Anniversary in November 2015.

The Wonthaggi Hotel is still evolving and keeping up with the demands of a modern clientele. The hotel has long been considered to be the hub of the community, which is reflected in the strength and pride of the people working in and owning the hotel, past and present.

Words by Madeleine Stuchbery

Wally Taberner lived on the premises for 72 years and Wally’s wife, Violet Taberner, who came from Glen Forbes, helped operate the hotel, and was favoured for her ongoing hospitality and friendliness.

Long-term cook and friend of the hotel, ‘Aunty Flo’ Fletcher churned out deliciously comforting meals for patrons for 56 years. Counter meals were introduced to the pub around 1959, and then the lounge area was constructed in the 1960s, which brought an influx of new forms of entertainment, such as live music and rock bands.

These days the hotel is still a vibrant bistro and bar, catering to the needs of the Wonthaggi public with as much gusto and pride as it did on that Melbourne Cup Day back in 1915.

The hotel is deeply entrenched within the memories and lives of so many locals and visitors alike. For many, Taberner's Wonthaggi

Hotel has been an extension of the family living room, a place where people gather together to tell stories, watch the footy, and catch up on local news. It’s easy to underestimate the longevity of the hotel if you have grown up with a regular Friday evening meal and a drink with friends down at ‘Tabs’.

But the story of a beached whale, its carcass boiled down to use as a source of fuel, depicts an archaic moment in time from the history books that seems quite unfathomable to the modern day reader. From the jaw bones that stand strong and proud at the entrance of the hotel, to the friendly and welcoming family

The Whalebone Hotel is not only famous for the whalebones on the front façade; there also is a rather large crocodile in the main bar. Of course this crocodile is quite harmless. It sits above the door leading to the corner bar; but the question that remains unanswered over the years is: “How did it get there?” The locals, with a grin, will tell you that it was captured in the nearby Powlett River......who really knows; but along with the many historical photos of Wonthaggi in a bygone era, displayed on the walls of the hotel, the crocodile is another highlight and talking point for many more years to come!

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Overlooking McBride Avenue

through the lens

WONTHAGGI Aerial photograph of Wonthaggi Township taken

by Trevor Foon in 1978

Wonthaggi Wind Farm - Turbines built in 2005

Wonthaggi Medical Centre

Graham Street

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WONTHAGGI Wonthaggi Desalination Plant – Completed in 2012

McBride Avenue

Old Library Building State Coal Mine

Cyclone Factory

The Powlett Hotel and a band recital

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WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP

Accredited Providers of High Quality Medical Services to the Bass Coast Community

YOUR LOCAL GENERAL PRACTICE FOR • Medical Services for the whole family • Obstetrics - Pregnancy Management/Birth • Palliative Care • Aged Care • Vascular Health Assessments • General Health Assessments • Healthy Kids Check • Immunisation

• Diabetes Management, Education and Risk Assessment • Asthma Management & Education • GP Management Plans • Chronic Disease Management - Team Care Arrangements • Skin Checks and Lesion Removal • Travel Health Advice

OPENING HOURS 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi

8.30am - 6.00pm Mon - Fri 9.00am - 1.00pm Sat

25 A'Beckett Street, Inverloch Consulting Suites, Wonthaggi Hospital

9.00am - 5.00pm Mon - Fri 9.00am - 8.00pm Mon - Fri

2/1524 Bass Highway, Grantville

9.00am - 4.30pm Mon - Fri early closing 1.00pm Wednesday

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

WONTHAGGI MEDICAL GROUP STRONG COMMUNITY FOCUS John Turner MAAPM, B.Social Welfare, Master International & Community Development Business Manager, Wonthaggi Medical Group (Article Courtesy of Wonthaggi Medical Group, 42 Murray Street, Wonthaggi)

From its origins as a small rural general practice serving the mining community of Wonthaggi in the 1960s, the Wonthaggi Medical Group has grown to become today a large multi-disciplinary and GP training general practice with a number of locations and complementary co-located and visiting specialist services.

From the outset, WMG has had a strong community focus and this continues today. The medical group plays a central part in the provision of a wide range of medical services locally. It also plays a significant role in the training of medical students and doctors seeking to specialise in General Medical Practice. If this is a bit confusing, it should be understood that General Medical Practice is recognised as a speciality and doctors seeking to practice this speciality must become members of one of two colleges of General Practice known by the acronyms RACGP and ACRRM. These colleges set the standards for General Practice and provide ongoing education.

Significant events in the group’s facility development have been the move from Watt Street to the larger Murray Street premises, the establishment of the A'Beckett Street Medical Centre in Inverloch in 1989, the co-location at the hospital consulting suites, the construction of the modern new building at Murray Street which was completed in 2012 and more recently the establishment of the Grantville Medical Centre.

Aside from the physical premises, there have been several pivotal moments in the group’s development. One was the establishment of the practice as a significant GP training practice which was due in no small measure to the commitment of several partners in the group (Dr Nola Maxfield, Dr John Hackett and former practice partner Dr Leon “Mal” Malzinskas). The practice had a pioneering involvement in what was the Rural and Remote Area Placement (RRAP), which became the very successful Pre-vocation General Practice Placement Program (PGPPP) rolled out to many more practices across Australia. The development of strong and enduring connections to a number of universities, foremost among them being Monash University and Melbourne University has also been central to the practice’s involvement in doctor education. Now the group regularly has students from Monash, Melbourne and other universities and generally has three or four GP -registrars under training.

Another turning point for the group came in 2007 with the decision to withdraw from the ‘Urgent Care’ department at Wonthaggi hospital. The practice had always provided a 24/7 urgent care service in cooperation with the hospital but by 2007 the growing demands of the afterhours in particular was proving to be an overwhelming burden on the practice doctors and a major obstacle to the recruitment and retention of new doctors. At the time, the state government was reluctant to support the Hospital to establish a permanently staffed emergency department (a Federal-State cost-shifting problem). Unfortunately it required a “crisis” to encourage the Hospital administration and the then state government to employ full time doctors and establish an ‘Emergency department’.

As I had been the person who had led the doctors to withdraw their services I personally was subject to a lot of unjustified criticism from various local politicians, even getting a hostile mention in Hansard. It took a visit by the then Victorian Health Minister Daniel Andrews to resolve the situation satisfactorily. The evening before the minister’s visit was a particularly fraught one with a number of very serious emergencies that resulted in several of our doctors attending patients in the back of ambulances as they were transferred to Melbourne.

With this experience fresh in our minds and carefully documented, we were therefore able to demonstrate the clear need for full time doctors. Now the Community can rest easy in the knowledge that there are doctors in ED 24/7 and our practice doctors are not continually being diverted to attend emergencies. A win-win for the local community.

While there are some very obvious gaps in specialist services, the group continues to encourage a greater variety of specialist services into the area.

In very recent times we have seen the introduction of a second gynaecologist, another cardiologist, a vascular surgeon and a second orthopaedic surgeon.

Wonthaggi Group doctors’ underlying values and philosophy is exemplified in the contribution our doctors make to the profession and to the local community. Dr Nola Maxfield has been a major contributor to health through her involvement with the Rural Doctors Association where she has held the senior office of president and been on the board of management for many years.

Her contribution also extends to being Chairman of the Gippsland Medical Local and formerly the division of General Practice and if that were not enough, she is presently on the board of Southern Gippsland General Practice Training and has been involved in a number of health advisory committees to government. In days past, the Group provided two or three general surgeons who would be available for emergencies after hours on a rostered basis, and in 2002 a former partner and General Surgeon Mr John Crellin was on call for the whole year after hours because a colleague’s illness prevented them from working.

This was an amazing commitment to the local community and way beyond any reasonable expectation. Finally, Wonthaggi Medical Group has provided sponsorship to a variety of local community organisations in the areas of sports, the arts and education and continues to do so.

This being said, the fact is that Wonthaggi Medical Group’s commitment to the Bass Coast Wonthaggi hospital is immense. It includes the medical management of all in-patients, the provision of obstetric and anaesthetic services 24/7 and peer support from our doctors who continue to be on-call for the in-patients. There is ongoing co-operation between the hospital management and the group to ensure that services continue to improve both in terms of quality and in terms of access to services.

The group also provides the medical services to the residential aged care facilities in the area. It is worth noting that it is our group’s ability and commitment to provide post-operative care for in-patients that has encouraged the range of visiting specialist services that are available today at Wonthaggi.

The next major developments for the Group will be the upgrading of its Inverloch branch and further expansion at Grantville. The biggest challenge will be the continued recruitment and retention of doctors.

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It’s time to brush the cobwebs off and get out on your bike.

Come and meet our new owner and Manager Travis Wiltshire.

With new stock and new Mechanic on hand to help you out.

It’s time to get your bike on!

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:30pm Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm

03 5672 2270

118 Graham Street, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995

crossovercycle.bikeit.com.au

ge

by Katie Hod

Schools around the South Gippsland and Bass Coast regions are throwing their support behind the area’s premier notfor-profit cycling and fun run event, which ultimately benefits their students’ long term and saves lives in the process.

The Bass Coast Cycle Challenge and Family Festival (14th November, 2015) attracts hundreds of participants from all over the region and wider Victoria, but it’s our local communities which benefit significantly from the event, with proceeds from the event funding in-school courses which arm the next generation with life saving road safety knowledge.

“The Bass Coast Cycle Challenge and Family Festival is a charity event… and we commit all funds to the education of drivers of young drivers, passengers and cyclists, making our roads a safer place for all,” said Event Director Gavin Slavin.

“Support for this event over the past few years has enabled us to fund over 1000 secondary school students from the South Gippsland and Bass Coast areas, to take part in the RYDA Road Safety Education… where they learn knowledge and skills which they will retain for life, and pass onto others too.”

The RYDA program is one of the many road safety initiatives in Victoria that have contributed to the number of young people killed in road crashes falling by 48% over the past decade.

Slavin adds that many ‘weekend warriors’ and recreational riders are also attracted to the event, largely for the variety of challenges offered by the four main rides.

This ongoing education of students’ - which lies at the heart of the event - combined with a new partnership with the Lions Club of Inverloch, is seeing record numbers register to participate in 2015 and according to Slavin, more entrants means more students can take part in this program.

“This year the event has expanded … and with five rides (121km, 85km, 53km, 40km, 5km kids ride) and three fun runs (10km, 5km, 1.8km), it’s attracting a raft of new entrants, plus a swathe of returning entrants from previous years… which is great because the more entries we receive, the more students we can involve in this course and the safer our roads can be.”

“We have the more experienced riders who enter and want the challenges which the 121km ride will bring, with its 14 climbs including the 250metre Mt Misery.

Gavin Slavin believes the event day schedule is an attractive one for families.

“With the rides, fun runs, street market and BMX and skateboarding competitions, plus a kids bike decorating competition, we are seeing a lot of interest from families, not just from the local area, but Melbourne and even further afield.”

“Also, we have scheduled the day so one parent could be out on a ride with their older children, the other parent is back in the town centre with their younger ones participating in a fun run, or a BMX or skateboarding competition or the kids bike ride ... there is so much to get involved in, it’s a really exciting year for the event.”

According to Caillin Flint Manager of RACV Inverloch Resort, the Bass Coast Cycle Challenge and Family Festival is a great excuse to make a weekend of it, stay overnight and explore the local area.

“A lot of people from across the state are using this event as an excuse to have a weekend away and we are seeing many book at our resort.” He said.

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“While at the other end of the rider spectrum we have recreational riders who have set themselves a personal goal to complete the 53km or 40km rides, which have less climbs but are equally as spectacular riding along the coastline and through the countryside.”

The event also has support from some big name sponsors (Pentana Solutions, RACV Resort Inverloch), plus some big media and cycling names with SBS Cycling Central’s Dave McKenzie as event ambassador and SEN radio station’s Kevin Hillier as announcer on event day.

The BCCC’s Facebook and Twitter accounts are abuzz with chatter about the event, plus they are running some great competitions, to win full riders kit, free entries, a nights accommodation at RACV Resort Inverloch and dinner for two at the Inverloch Esplanade Hotel.

For more information or to enter the event check out: www.basscoastcyclechallenge.com

A Fat Bike is a mountain bike (MTB) designed to use special 4 inch wide tyres. They let you ride terrain that is not possible on a normal MTB. For beach riding the tyres run at about 5 PSI. Fat tyres with such low pressure allow the bike to float on sand, snow and soft terrain with less impact to the environment than a hiking boot. In fact Fat Bikes are easier to ride on the sand than to walk on it.

FAT BIKE RIDING WITH WILDERNESS COAST ADVENTURES

By Doug Pell

Wilderness Coast Adventures have a fleet of Fat Bikes in different sizes to fit riders between 159cm - 200cm. Their Wheeler Savanas have quality Shimano components featuring 20 speed gears and hydraulic disc brakes.

The controls on the bikes are identical to conventional mountain bikes.

Wilderness Coast Adventures guides small groups of up to 7 bikes on the beaches and coastal trails around Marlo and Cape Conran Coastal Park. Tours range from 1-2 hours to their Full Day Epic rides. They have tours suitable for all types of riders, some like it cruisy, some like it challenging. The one thing that all of their tours have in common is the speed‌.

Or lack of it! Our beach rides average speeds generally under 10km/hour. Let's face it Fat Bikes are built for comfort - not for speed.

I admit it, I haven't ridden a bike for quite a while, in fact around 25 odd years and the thought of climbing on board a fat bike, which to this day I had never experienced, was something out of the blue for me.

Wilderness Coast Adventures (WCA) is based in Marlo, a tranquil seaside town where Australia's legendary Snowy River meets the sea. Marlo is the gateway to the Wilderness Coast and is famous for its fishing and surrounding National Parks.

I was however, like a kid with a new toy, the thought of trying out something new did tempt me and no Arctic storm that was brewing and making it's way through Gippsland, was going to deter me from this new adventure I was about to take on.

I arrived at Cape Conran Coastal Park, located near Marlo, and was greeted by Dave Whyte the owner of Wilderness Coast Adventures and his fellow rider on the day Josh Puglisi, Manager of Cape Conran Coastal Park, a wonderful camping site for tourists, quiet now, but come Summer one has to book well in advance, but we can talk about that later. For me, the challenge was there to go riding.

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After a practise run around the car park, working out the gears and the brakes and not falling off on my first attempt, I was ready, well ready for a few kilometres, the thought of riding a bike on the beach hadn't actually fazed me at all, after noticing the big wide tyres that looked more fitting on a 4WD. In my opinion Dave Whyte is your outback survivor, he has many skills and one of those was patience, he has tons of it, and you need patience when dealing with various people on these tours. Dave is well stocked up for the tour; he had a thermos of coffee and some muesli bars which is offered to you along the journey.

Riding along the road, over the speed humps and into Cape Conran East was quite easy. The tough part was coming up next, the actual bit where you ride the bikes along the sand. That is what I thought, but after motoring along in first gear and moving up a gear or two when the

sand got softer, was not as bad as I had thought.

In fact it was great fun. Here I was, riding along the beach some 396 kms from Melbourne, and having a wonderful time. Riding along the coast is exciting, even rode a couple of very shallow waves without getting my feet wet, I was after all looking for whales which Dave promised me would be around, perhaps they were having the day off; but there is nothing like being out in the open, beside the ocean and riding the vast expanse of open sand.

We got to the mouth and dismounted our bikes for some photographic opportunities. We had ridden 3kms; for Dave it is like walking to the shops for a bottle of milk, for me it was an adventure. Perhaps that is where he got the idea for his name, it was all making sense. The view from the outcrop of rocks looking through to the mouth of the Yeerung River is spectacular.

After walking up the steps we all set off on the next stage of the trip, the wilderness section, I was ready! Back on the bikes, and riding through various fire tracks, and even inventing a few, I was shown the Yeerung River further down from the mouth.

Again the place is very picturesque, and we saw some kangaroos along the way as well. Riding through bracken, long grass, sand, bumps and humps was something you would possibly do in the comfort of a 4WD, but here we were climbing up hills and rolling down hills on these marvellous fat bikes. After completing around 12kms, about 3 hours later, I was expecting not to be able to walk for a few days, let alone wonder how I am going to feel immediately after the ride; but no, I was feeling inspired and refreshed.

What an experience I had; I have done some amazing things in my life, and this is one of them. Dave is the perfect guide and host, and apart from the fact that he is very fit and able, he is also very kind and eager for you to enjoy your ride. I did, and I am coming back for more!

FAQS REGARDING TOURS HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE ON YOUR TOURS? Currently we run tours with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 7 people.

WHERE DO THE TOURS LEAVE FROM? We have a number of meeting points that depend on where we will be riding for the day.

At Cape Conran Coastal Park we generally meet adjacent to the Parks Office, at Marlo we meet at Snowy River Café & Tackle Shop or THE famous Marlo Hotel.

WHAT’S PROVIDED? • A WCA guide to take you safely on your Adventure Tour.

• An amazing Fat Bike equipped with 20 speed gears and disc brakes.

• Australian Standards approved cycling helmet.

• Australian Standard Child Seats for bikes can be supplied on request • Water • Snacks on our half day tours.

• Locally sourced picnic lunch on our full day tours.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? • Comfortable clothes to ride in. Riding specific clothes are great but not necessary. Shorts, shirt, bathers if it's warm.

• Closed-toe shoes or sandals. Running shoes are good but you will have to occasionally empty the sand out!

WHAT SHOULD I BRING? We suggest bringing a small backpack to carry personal items.

• Sunglasses • Sunscreen • Camera • A change of clothes if the weather is wet • A raincoat if it looks like rain.

Visit www.wildernesscoastadventures.com.au Photos courtesy of Wilderness Coast Adventures

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BEACH AND TRAIL FAT BIKE TOURS MARLO ~ CAPE CONRAN EAST GIPPSLAND’S WILDERNESS COAST

CYCLE ALONG WILD OCEAN BEACHES WILDERNESS TRAILS & QUIET ESTUARIES SPECIAL FAT BIK Fun for beginners & experts Great for photographers, birdwatchers & wildlife lovers.

Small groups from 2-7 riders

Great Value Tours Magical Sunrise & Sunset Tours This tour is for those who prefer life in the slow lane, don’t want to commit to a longer ride or just want a bit of chill time.

Half Day Tours An excellent introduction to coastal Fat Biking, that covers between 10km -16km of coastal trail, estuary and beach for a moderate fitness level.

The Wilderness Coast Epic ride is the "burger with the lot" tour for those with a taste for the wild and the fitness to match! Say goodbye to civilisation for a few hours and get the taste of the Wilderness Coast. Reserved for Epic Fat Bikers.

As with all of our tours, there is always plenty of time off the bike to explore some places that even Fat Bikes can't get to. In the warmer months you will be able to cool off in some of the Wilderness Coast's prettiest creeks and secret waterholes. Epic rides generally leave in the morning (subject to tides and weather conditions) and include water, ride snacks and a nutritious picnic lunch.

Fully insured Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operator

www.wildernesscoastadventures.com.au or call Dave on 0481 080 973

BOOK REVIEW

By Jan Bull

WHEEL LIFE Cycling Recollections of the 1950s & 1960s

by Ben Schofield

The blurb on the back of this book says: “Share in the lives and experiences of some participants in the cycle racing scene of the 1950s and 1960s, as told in their own words and recorded by the author……..” and that’s exactly what this book brings you.

The author has faithfully recorded the words of the many people he interviewed and that’s what makes this book work so well. I haven’t had anything to do with bicycle riding or racing over the years and I didn’t think I would find anything of interest in the pages of this book, I was wrong, just reading about the lives of these men is interesting, throw in material about the era (I grew up in those years) and that made the stories fascinating. It is a book that will appeal to anyone who knew the cycling scene then, or is involved in it now, and it will still have appeal for those who like to read about this era.

Jan Bull Foster’s Little Book Shop Visit: www.fosterslittlebookshop.com.au

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A BRIEF HISTORY OF

Ben Schofield

GIPPSLAND CYCLE RACING In 1881 Australia's first six-day bicycle race was held in Melbourne soon followed by developments in Gippsland. Prior to selecting land in the Latrobe district, many locals had witnessed bicycle Penny-Farthing racing in Melbourne at the Croxton Park Hotel field, and Mentone Reserve, as well as major events at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Bicycles of the time Penny-Farthings cost an average worker six month's pay.

In 1883, the Municipal Shire set aside an area for recreation in Traralgon Showgrounds. By 1885, the popularity of cycling saw bicycle agents form in the district. 1887 saw the ‘Safety Cycle’ with equal sized wheels arrive in Melbourne and the following year they were introduced to Gippsland.

The first 'safety bicycle' was introduced to Traralgon by J. Parer of the Grand Junction Hotel, and probably the first local modern bike race was held as soon as the second bike arrived!

In 1889 Traralgon Agricultural Society built a grandstand at the Showgrounds, and the venue was noted as 'a picturesque oval for district cycling'. Cycle racing began to feature as a highlight of public events. In 1894 an Easter Sports carnival included bicycle races at a cricket ground (showground) near Morwell.

Bairnsdale Cycling Club was formed in 1896.

The Sale Bicycle Club also began to run races in 1896, as interest in cycling grew.

In 1898, the Latrobe district’s first gravel track was prepared in Traralgon. By 1905, Traralgon Bicycle Club members were taking part in road races, which were organised from a range of different venues, usually public houses.

Cycling and cycle racing in Gippsland were well established by the time of World War 1 in 1914.

Between World War 1 & 2 Records show that the Tour of Gippsland raced through the district in 1925. ‘Cycling News’ deemed it one of the toughest races in the country. It was a professional road race of 180 km.

In 1926, the country’s top riders competed in the 'Melbourne to Sale' race.

In 1929, Traralgon became part of the ‘Country Track Carnivals’. Professional riders travelled from town to town during the track season.

Prize money was put up by local businesses.

1929 also saw the Tour of Gippsland become an annual event on the professional cycle racing calendar, as a major event.

Post World War 2 Traralgon Bike Club (Est. 1934) was reestablished as the Traralgon Cycling Club in August 1947. A track was laid in 1949 at the Traralgon Recreation Reserve (showgrounds).

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Bob Whitford of Yallourn competed in the first Sun Tour, and was one of only 18 riders who completed the six day event. Keith Rowley of Maffra was the winner.

In 1953, the Amateur Cycling Club in Moe was formed. Bob Whitford spent years collecting newspapers and selling them to the mill, raising money to help fund the original Newborough track, with the support of friends and cyclists.

In 1965, a gravel track was laid at ‘John Field Reserve’ at Moe-Newborough.

In 1958, an asphalt track was laid around the oval on the Recreation Reserve Traralgon, opened by Council in March.

fame. A desire to succeed and that passion for success would be part of his persona during his lifetime - both in sport and later in business.

World War 2 interrupted the career of both brothers, although both had the potential to be World Champions had not the war years intervened. After the war Herb settled in Sale Shire and was one of the founding members of the Victorian Field and Game Association and campaigned for and was instrumental in ensuring the preservation of Gippsland's wetlands. He became a councillor of the City of Sale in 1960, and passed away in 1986. 'Lake Guyatt wetlands sanctuary reserve' in Sale was named in honour of Herb's work.

1960s - 1990s By 1961 a flat track at Ronald Reserve Morwell was ready for training and racing.

In 1969, the first Gippsland Road Championships were held.

Moe track was extended to accommodate the internal sports field in 1973.

Morwell became the first Club in Australia to combine as a Professional and Amateur Cycling Club in 1980. Traralgon and Moe ACC decided to continue fostering youth.

In 1983, the ATB (All Terrain Bicycle), or mountain bicycle was introduced to the district, and in 1988 the Latrobe Mountain Bike Club formed.

The 1993 Bairnsdale to Sale Race was the first local race where professional and amateur cyclists officially raced each other.

Recent times 2003 saw a Time Trial event - the last recorded track event at Traralgon Showgrounds.

In 2005, founding Morwell Cycling Club member Joe Trevorrow passed away. Later in the year, founding Moe member Bob Whitford passed away. The following year, Councillor Tony Zimora officially declared the cycling track in Newborough the ‘Bob Whitford Cycling Track’.

Famous Gippsland Cycle Racers The Guyatts

Billy Guyatt and his older brother Herb were racing cyclists from Sale, Gippsland. Both were outstanding track sprinters. Herb became British Empire professional sprint champion in 1940. Billy showed his potential very early as a junior rider. Their father Jim Guyatt was also a racing cyclist. Billy had a longer, and more successful career, whilst Herb retired to run the family bicycle shop in Maffra. However, some family members think that Herb was the better rider, but Billy would see far greater success and

Photo courtesy of Australian Cycling Forums

In 1935 at 15 years of age, Billy won the Victorian junior road championship held on the Albert Park Lake circuit. At 16 years of age he won several track championships in Brisbane and was hoping to represent Australia for the 1936 Empire Games in Sydney, but Dunc Gray beat him in the National Sprint Title. Missing selection, Guyatt turned professional at 17 years of age.

From that day he forged an illustrious career as one of Australia's most versatile track riders of his day.

Prior to WWII the mecca of track racing in Melbourne was the Exhibition Board Track. Many European and American stars raced there during their off season and Guyatt matched them with success. Later the Exhibition Board track was transported to North Essendon, where Guyatt continued racing after the war. However there were younger men on their way up.

Photo courtesy of The Cycling Scrap Book

During the 1950s, Guyatt was coming towards the end of his career. He was in his 30s and although still a clever technician, his pace was dropping away. After a short retirement, Guyatt came back to ride the 1954 Warrnambool Road Race. Considered a sprinter, this 165 mile road race would seem an impossible task. History proves that he won the event. With a wager, and the winnings of the prestigious event, he was able to start his electrical retail business.

That particular year was not an easy one due to headwinds all the way to Warrnambool. It took Guyatt 8 hours and 24 minutes to win the 1954 Warrnambool. Most probably due to his success in winning Australia's oldest classic road race, Guyatt was lured back to the North Essendon Velodrome for the beginning of the season, which was to be his last as he hung up his wheels at the end of the summer to concentrate on his business life.

Billy Guyatt was also a highly successful coach, directing Ian Browne and Tony Marchant to victory in the 1956 Olympic Gold Medal Tandem final in Melbourne. Billy passed away in Queensland in 1989.

Rowley Brothers Keith Rowley left Max Rowley right

championship race over 125 miles (201 km) at Cronulla, NSW. Keith also won the Blue Riband for the fastest time in the Melbourne to Warrnambool in 1947.

By 1949 the Rowleys were almost unbeatable with Max winning the Australian long-distance championship from second placed Keith before 50,000 spectators.

In 1950 Max won the gruelling 510 mile (816km) "Tour of the West" in NSW and then a week later the prestigious "Melbourne to Warrnambool", taking both the line honors and fastest time from scratch.

Max was second to Keith in the very first Sun Tour in 1952, after leading going into the final day. In the last stage, he could not keep up the cracking pace set by his brother who won and immediately announced his retirement, returning to sheep farming. Keith won in a time of 42hr 57min 55sec. He beat his brother by 49sec overall.

Max continued racing with success until 1954 when he too retired to work his farm at Upper Maffra West. He still took his "Max Rowley" Sun Tour bike on regular outings around the district.

Max Rowley served 15 years as a Maffra Shire councillor, was Shire President twice, and served on many community and school groups over the years.

Keith Rowley passed away in 1982. Max died in August 1987 just before his book “The Max Rowley Story: my golden years of cycling” was published.

Photo courtesy of Maffra & District Historical Society Inc

In the 1940s and 1950s the Rowley brothers were a household name when Max and his older brother Keith dominated the Australian cycle racing scene. Max won virtually every professional event in Australia, often with Keith taking the back seat to let Max cross the line half a wheel length in front.

In 1939, when 16, Max sprang to prominence by winning the Sheffield Wheel Race and scratch event in Tasmania after having been a top Gippsland rider for several years.

In 1940, he became the youngest rider ever to win the coveted Latrobe Wheel Race in Tasmania. A year later he was Victorian five-mile track champion.

Keith twice won the Australian national road race title in 1947, by winning a sprint point 150 miles (240 km) into the Melbourne to Warrnambool Classic, and in 1950 by winning the first

His career appeared to be stalled by injury and shock sustained in a fatal (for fellow rider, Russell Mockridge) collision with a bus in the 1958 Tour of Gippsland, but he recovered to make a racing comeback in 1962, and later played an important role in Victorian cycling administration.

Jim continues to race to this day with Southern Masters Cycling Club, including races regularly held by the club in West Gippsland.

John Trevorrow

John Trevorrow, born in May 1949, raced with Morwell Club as a junior rider in the 1950s and 60s. In July 1970, John competed in the 164.6km (102miles) Road Race at the Commonwealth Games and won a bronze medal. He then competed at the 1972 Summer Olympics. After turning professional, he won the Australian national road race title in 1978, 1979 and 1980, and was one of the first of the modern generation of Australians to race professionally in Europe. In Australia, John is best known as a three time Herald Sun Tour winner, in 1975, 1977 and 1979. He also won fastest time in the 228km Grafton to Inverell Handicap in NSW in 1970 and 1971. 1979 also saw John win the Tour of Tasmania.

Jim Taylor

Jim Taylor was a professional cyclist originally from Sale in central Gippsland, born in 1934.

He started his racing career with the local club as a 14 year old in 1948, and before long came to the notice of famous Gippsland cycling identities - the Guyatts and the Rowleys.

Taylor settled in Melbourne in the early fifties and rode successfully for the Coburg Cycling Club.

He then travelled to Europe in 1955 for experience and competed in the world professional road title for Australia.

Photo courtesy of John Trevorrow

Now resident in Geelong, John retains his connection with the Sun Tour as the current Director of the race. He is a well-known and respected media commentator on cycling, and has been involved in the publication of a number of books and media shows on the sport. He was instrumental in the hosting of the 2010 Road World Championships in Geelong.

Gary Wiggins

Gary Wiggins was born in November 1952, in Yallourn. He began his racing as a junior with the Morwell club. He was a quality professional cyclist, who specialised in six-day racing, both in Australia and, more particularly, in Europe.

His son is the British cyclist, four-time Olympic champion and 2012 Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins. Sadly Gary died in 2008, and did not live to see his son’s more recent successes.

The war years intervened but when professional cycling got under way again, Max Rowley quickly showed what he could achieve. In 1946 he won the Australian long-distance professional road cycling championship raced over 301 miles (480km) from Melbourne to Horsham. He won the Melbourne to Wangaratta and picked up a second Latrobe Wheel Race.

The victories kept piling up and Max Rowley was soon seen in newspapers throughout Australia.

When Hartley manufactured "Max Rowley" special bicycles, Max received two pound 15 shillings for each one sold. In 1948 Max Rowley was named Australian road rider of the year and was third in the Australian sportsman of the year title.

and 1958 seasons (and most famously in the 1957 Melbourne-Warrnambool) he earned the sobriquets ‘Mockridge’s Shadow’ and ‘Mr. Second’ as the only rider who could regularly stay with the champion.

Photo courtesy of Ben Schofield

His success on the bike began in mid-fifties as a scratch-man on the road and he was fancied as a likely winner of 1957 Sun Tour. In the 1957

Photo courtesy of The Cycling Scrap Book

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Peta Mullens

Peta Mullens was born in Maffra in 1988. She currently lives in Belgium and races for the Wiggle Honda professional women’s racing team. She began with Latrobe Valley Cycling Club. As an Under 19 rider, she became National Champion in the Pursuit in 2006. She then first competed internationally at the Junior World Track Championships that year, coming third in the Individual Pursuit.

Herald Sun Tour

The Herald Sun Tour has travelled through many Gippsland towns and areas in its 63 year history, and its first winner was Keith Rowley from Maffra in 1952.

Latrobe Valley resident Eric Bishop rode the Sun Tour in 1982, 1986, 1987- winning the Daylesford Stage of the 1982 Tour. Other Gippsland riders have also ridden, with Dave McFarlane winning a stage of the tour in 1984, Chris Hunt a stage winner in 1983 and finishing 4th outright. John

NRS Tour of Gippsland

The modern Tour of Gippsland is a National Road Series multi-day, multi-stage, event.

The 2014 Lakes Oil Tour of Gippsland featured seven exciting stages across the greater Gippsland region. The race will not be held in 2015, but will recommence in 2016.

Photo sourced from Peta Mullins Wikipedia

In 2009, Peta became National Under 23 Road Race Champion. Peta is also an accomplished mountain bike racer, and showed this versatility by winning the 2012, 2013 and 2014 National Cross Country titles.

2014 was a highly successful year, with Peta coming 12th in the Commonwealth Games Mountain bike (Cross Country) event and 17th at the UCI World Mountain bike (Cross Country) Championships.

In 2015, she became National Women’s Road Race Champion in Ballarat, and came second in the Criterium. She is now aiming to make the Australian Olympic team for Rio in 2016.

Famous Gippsland cycling events Tour of Gippsland

The original Tour of Gippsland was a one-day single stage handicap event. Records indicate an event was held in 1925, and the event became an annual one in 1929. It was 140 miles long.

The route originally began from the Oakleigh Post Office in Dandenong Road, then along Dandenong Road to Tooradin, Nyora, Poowong, over the Strzelecki Ranges to Warragul, then along the Princes Highway through Berwick and Dandenong to finish in Oakleigh. Sadly, the race is perhaps best remembered for the accident in 1958, where members of the Scratch bunch were hit by a bus at the intersection of Princes Highway and Clayton Road only two miles into the race. Jimmy Taylor survived the accident uninjured, but Russell Mockridge, dual Olympic Gold medallist and Tour de France rider, was killed.

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Trevorrow, Rob Kypriotis and Peter Phillips all had top 10 finishes. In the 1986 Sun Tour, Team Moe won the teams time trial over the 32km stage from Echuca to Kyabram.

Latrobe Cycling Club took an active role to help organize and host the final stage of the Herald Sun Tour finishing in Traralgon in 2004.

Baw Baw Classic

The Baw Baw Classic is a Victorian Road Series event that is held in April each year, finishing with what is generally considered the most difficult mountain climb in Australia.

The event began in 2001 and the race received just over 100 entries and was considered a success. Some course variations between grades have been implemented over the years making the main race over around 100km while the lower grades have only a little less. The 2015 race saw Lachlan Norris win the Men’s A Grade event, with the Women’s A Grade won by Justine Barrow.

Gippsland 3 Day Tour

Begun in 1964, The Gippsland 3 Day Tour has boasted many high profile winners over the years, including John Trevorrow, David McFarlane and Brenton Jones. The Tour is traditionally held over the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. The A Grade 2015 winner was Cyrus Monk.

Tour of East Gippsland

The Tour of East Gippsland is a new race, first run in 2014, as part of the Victorian Road Series.

The 2015 event was held from February 21 to 22 in 2015. The race involved a time trial from Metung and road race from Metung on the Saturday, with a criterium at Eagle Point on the Sunday. The Men’s A grade winner was Brad Evans. The Women’s A grade winner was Nicole Whitburn. It is planned to hold the event again in 2016.

Current Gippsland velodromes

(Note: Velodromes in Gippsland are open to the public, but need to only be used on dry days, as when wet they are slippery and dangerous.)

Velodromes currently in Gippsland are: Warragul, Leongatha, Sale and the Bob Whitford Track Newborough/ Moe.

Current Gippsland Clubs

Gippsland has the following club affiliation with Cycling Victoria: Bairnsdale Cycling Club, the Latrobe City Cycling Club, Leongatha, Warragul and the Wellington Cycling Clubs.

Gippsland also has the Gippsland Cycling Club affiliated with the Victorian Veterans’ Cycling Council.

Photos courtesy of Ben Schofield

From snowsports to cycle sports the changing

SEASONS at

MOUNT BAW BAW With its alpine village charm and gentle terrain, Mt Baw Baw is well known as the best place in Australia to learn to ski and snowboard, with many Victorians having their first snow experience on the mountain. Fast becoming as popular as its snow-covered slopes are the winding trails that weave through the snow gums for the enjoyment of mountain bike enthusiasts once the winter white has melted.

Mt Baw Baw’s green season from October to May sees the mountain come alive with wildflowers and mountain bike riders of all skill levels take to the trails to experience a second to none adventure in one of Victoria’s pristine alpine landscapes.

For road cyclists, Mt Baw Baw already has a reputation as one of the toughest peaks in the 7 Peaks Alpine Ascent Challenge, where cyclists are challenged to ride seven of Victoria’s alpine peaks during the summer months.

Professional riders have considered the climb up the mountain as the second hardest climb in the world of cycling (behind L’Alpe d’Huez, the most famous climb in the Tour de France) and the hardest sealed road climb in the Southern

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hemisphere, with a maximum gradient of 20.6 per cent at Winch Corner.

The mountain is also home to the Baw Baw Classic, a one day race covering a grueling 103 kilometres of bitumen. With an almost complete lack of flat road from the start of the race in Warragul to the summit, the Baw Baw Classic is one of the most difficult single day bike races in the country. The race has been won by some of Australia’s top riders, including ORICAGreenEDGE’s Simon Gerrans.

As a mountain bike destination, Mt Baw Baw boasts some of the best cross-country and downhill trails in Australia. The cross-country trails can be gentle and challenging with options for beginners through to experts. The rest areas and picnic tables scattered along the way, together with the animals that call the mountain home, make it a picturesque ride on any day.

With every ride, Resort Manager Alex Flint marvels at the natural beauty of the mountain everyday.

“It’s so beautiful. When you’re riding through the snow gums and you turn a corner to see a field of wildflowers and wombats and deer enjoying the sun, it is truly remarkable. Nature shows off at Mt Baw Baw and there’s nothing like taking it all in on our cross-country mountain bike trails,” said Alex.

Along Mt Baw Baw’s McMillans Trail is Anthill Lookout, a favourite spot for visitors to stop for the breathtaking views over Baragwanath Flat, Mt Phillack and Mt Whitelaw.

“If you can ride a bike, you can ride on our cross-country trails. Beginners right through to professionals will enjoy themselves. It’s about being active and enjoying the outdoors, and there’s no where better to take it all in than Mt Baw Baw,” said Alex.

Nick King, Mt Baw Baw’s Professional Mountain Bike Instructor, thinks that the natural features of the trails themselves are second to none, as they keep with the challenging terrain.

“What sets Mt Baw Baw apart for mountain biking is that our trails are not carved out by machines. They are meticulously tended to by hand, keeping with the natural landscape of the mountain,” he said.

For adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers, like Traralgon local Dru Berryman, Mt Baw Baw’s national standard downhill MTB track known as ‘DH1’ is where the fun is. Racing through the bush and facing log drops, berms, boulder sections, rollovers, jumps and ramps, Australia’s best riders have conquered this 300 metre vertical plummet. Dru’s best is a mere two minutes and 47 seconds.

Having endured broken bones here and there (knee surgery in 2011, followed by a broken right collar bone in 2012, a broken wrist in 2013, and broken left collar bone in 2014), at the young age of 19 Dru has achieved some impressive feats including representing Australia in the Australian junior downhill team at the UCI World Cup in 2014.

Dru fell in to mountain biking when, after moving from Hazelwood South to Traralgon, he had to find a new mode of transport to replace his motorbike – much to the delight of his neighbours.

first elite racing season, Dru has achieved first place finishes and took out the overall elite championship for the Victorian Enduro Series.

“My dream is to travel and compete in every round of the Enduro world series, which is about seven races in seven countries over five months.”

“I saved some money and nagged Dad, and got my first mountain bike at 12. Since then, I haven’t stopped riding. It’s so easy to getaway on the bike, and clear your head,” said Dru. “Choosing to ride downhill rather than cross country, BMX or other styles was pretty easy.

The adrenaline rush you get from ploughing downhill at lightning speed over nature’s obstacles feels like nothing else!”

When he’s not competing, Dru works as Mt Baw Baw’s Sports and Recreation Officer, coaching others, offering advice to visitors and maintaining the trails.

“It’s fantastic working at Mt Baw Baw because I get paid to do something I love. We get people

To those that haven’t tried their hand at mountain biking, Dru says they have no idea what they’re missing out on. from all walks of life come and try their hand at mountain biking."

Earlier this year, Dru took on another challenge in tackling Enduro, a form of mountain bike racing that combines downhill sections with cross-country and climbing.

“Downhill is more technically demanding, but Enduro is more grueling because you’re covering a longer distance,” said Dru. In his

“Come to Mt Baw Baw and give it a go in an intimidation-free environment, where you can sample every type of riding. The way the mountain is set up it is easy to make a weekend of it, try your hand on the cross-country trails, as well as the downhill. We have elite coaches for all disciplines and skill levels. People from all walks of life come to the mountain to have a go and nine times out of 10, they’ll walk away with a new hobby.”

Photographs and words courtesy of Mount Baw Baw

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EAST GIPPSLAND IS HOME OF THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND

The first ever Australian Adventure Festival (AAF) is being held In East Gippsland across the weekend of the 23-25 October, 2015.

Showcasing the beauty of the region to the adventure sport community, AAF includes Mountain Biking, Trail Running, Paddling and Adventure Racing events. This is one experience not to be missed.

East Gippsland is the official home of the Australian Adventure Festival. With striking outdoor terrain; the region is the perfect location for an adventure. It is like no other. Much of East Gippsland is undiscovered, untouched, and paths are untraveled. Nature enthusiasts will also find a world of wonder with the Colquhoun State Forest –known for it’s large eucalypt trees running along Mississippi Creek. AAF is also a chance to put a spotlight on all the exciting mountain bike trails in the Colquhoun State Forest.

To this point, the trails have been enjoyed by the locals and have remained a hidden gem to the wider MTB community. While the festival is designed to provide all riders, runners, paddlers and adventurers with a chance to taste an elite race experience, the real star of the show is the natural settings with the region.

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“It is totally unique. The proximity of the ocean to the lakes to the wilderness is like nowhere I have been before. It is literally untouched. When out on the trails it’s not like other destinations where you can travel a clear line. You get out there and you feel like it is just you and the bush. You are totally immersed in nature.” Sharon Blegg – local adventure enthusiast and sister of internationally recognised adventure racer Deanna Blegg.

The Australian Adventure Festival is for all abilities and experiences, with kids events and entertainment for everyone throughout the weekend.

“There is no other comprehensive adventure festival that provides the best and most challenging events for Mountain Biking, Trail Running, Paddling, and Adventure Racing all in one location.” Karly McCaskill, East Gippsland Marketing Manager.

One of adventure racing’s most celebrated athletes and one of MTB’s most exciting talents have joined the Australian Adventure Festival lineup for the inaugural event in October of 2015.

Five time Coast to Coast winner and Olympian Richard Ussher will bring his 15 years of experience to the starting line in East Gippsland this year. Ussher has achieved victories in every edition

of the Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge 2007-2010, the World Adventure Racing Championship 2005 and 2006, and has most recently achieved a top 10 finish in the XTERRA World Championships in Maui. He lives in New Zealand and spends his time mentoring other athletes, managing his own profile, and working as Race Director for the iconic Coast to Coast Multisport World Championship. Upon accepting the ambassador role for AAF, Ussher noted: “My philosophy on racing and life is to continually look for new challenges, which inspire me, and keep me striving to bring out the very best in myself and those around me. AAF ticks these boxes.”

Mullens, the current 2015 Australian XCR MTB Champion and 2015 Australian Road Race Champion, spends her time travelling the world, racing her bike and making new memories. Her impressive lineup of achievements also include the 2014 Australian XCE MTB Champion, 2013 Australian XCO MTB Champion and 2012 Australian XCM MTB Champion. Mullens is passionately on her quest to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The Australian Adventure Festival is where the worlds of adventure sport meet in one ultimate festival. To be held on October 23-25 in East Gippsland, Victoria, the aim of AAF is to bring together outdoor adventurers, and their friends and families, to celebrate the world of adventure.

Photographs courtesy of Limelight Sports

SECURE YOUR PLACE IN THE ADVENTURE TODAY.

Visit www.adventurefestival.com today

Follow AAF on Facebook here Follow AAF on Twitter here #AAF

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RIVIERA CYCLES

Gary Jackson, owner of Riviera Cycles, was born to ride; he raced as a keen amateur on track (velodrome) and road, but ceased track racing in 1992 due to a racing accident that left him with a broken wrist and his colleague a broken spine.

In 1995 Gary married Lisa and they have two children, Daniel who is 15 years of age and Emily who is 12 years of age; and keeping up with the tradition, Emily is a former U11 girls Victorian Champion in Cyclo-cross.

Riviera Cycles also opened it's doors in 1995 and this year marks 20 years in business; and along the journey Gary and Lisa have been employing local people.

Keeping to a strong level of fitness, Gary made a comeback to the sport that he loved, participating once again in track cycling as a Masters age rider in 2005, with encouragement and guidance of AIS satellite cycling coach (and Gippslander) Rick Talbot. Gary won the first race back and became an Australian Champion in the 2005 Australian Masters 3539yo 500m time trial Championship, with a new track record at the DISC velodrome in Melbourne and that record still stands.

The next few years saw a few placings in State and Australian Masters Championship track cycling events including winning two Country Victorian Masters Championships. In 2006, Gary was the Gippstar Award winner for May. In the 2008 Masters Track Cycling World Championships, he was awarded a Bronze Medal in the 35-39yo 1000m time trial, three months later the winner was announced to have failed a drug test for steroids.

Disappointingly, results were not re-allocated.

In all this time, Gary has had wonderful family support, Lisa is often in the shop and is certainly proud of her husband's achievements. One would wonder how a family orientated man with a steady business has any spare time available to him, but somehow Gary finds that time to still be heavily involved in his love of cycling.

As a former Past President of the Bairnsdale Cycling Club, a position he held for six years, Gary is currently on the East Gippsland Cycle Tourism Committee, promoting cycling in East Gippsland. He also sponsors many local events and junior cyclists, along with volunteering his time to support the maintenance and building of East Gippsland Mountain bike trails and mechanical support.

Footnote: This Gippsland Cycling Feature would not have happened if it wasn't for the tremendous help and enthusiasm from Gary Jackson. His contacts and assistance from the moment I first discussed having a cycling feature in the magazine has been unbelievable. At all times he has been helpful and enthusiastic, no wonder he is celebrating 20 years, there is more to come, well done to Gary and Lisa!

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20

Years of

Riviera Cycles

Bairnsdale

Gary and Lisa Jackson love cycling. They love the freedom of pedaling a quiet country road, the exhilaration of descending an off-road trail, the sense of achievement felt from conquering a big climb, and since 1995, they have been sharing that love of cycling with the people of East Gippsland.

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THE GREAT EAST RAIL TRAIL RIDE

MAMILs – Middle Aged Men In Lycra – are one of the most commonly seen species of cyclists: lean, serious and dressed in bright primary colours, they are a familiar sight racing cars off at traffic lights.

Less well known (and as yet un–named) is a more discreet breed: slipping quietly along on cycle paths and rail trails in widely varied plumage that ranges from lycra to trackies, these riders are more likely to have their heads up watching birds, listening to bees and smelling the eucalypt tang.

The “Great East Rail Trail Ride”, now in its second year, is a cycle event catering to this second type of rider. Three days of cycling along the 100 km East Gippsland Rail Trail, the event is set to cater for “…new cyclists, old cyclists, and those for whom cycling simply fills the intervals between eating and drinking...” according the event website (greateast.com. au). As well as enjoying the gorgeous rolling hills and forests of East Gippsland, participants have plenty of time to explore the little towns along the way, eating at local pubs and getting to meet the locals.

Starting at the western end of the Rail Trail on the Friday morning, riders stop for lunch at the beautiful Nicholson River Winery, before finishing the days ride at Bruthen, a cute little town on

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the Tambo River. While most riders camp, there is the option of booking accommodation at the pub or cottages; a third option is the Easy Camp, where a roomy tent is provided, put up and down and moved for you.

On Day 2 the ride goes through Colquhoun State Forest, with the 200 metres long Stony Creek Trestle Bridge a highlight. With the day’s ride ending at lunch time in Nowa Nowa, there is plenty to do in the afternoon, from yoga, bike

maintenance and mountain bike skills sessions, a tour of a local organic farm, or just taking a quiet stroll around the lake.

Day 3 takes riders through a mix of forest and farmland right through to fertile Snowy River Floodplain, crossed by a 1 km long timber viaduct built to withstand the frequent floods of the river. At the rides end, riders and bikes are transported back to the starting point.

The event is the work of Liz Mitchell, owner of Snowy River Cycling which offers year round tailored tours on the East Gippsland Rail Trail.

“Events have a lovely atmosphere, especially

when they are small like this one. You can ride alone if you like, but there is always someone new to meet and chat to when you feel like it. There’s just a bit of a festive atmosphere, particularly in the evening when we have some live music or a movie”.

A keen cycle tourer herself, Liz particularly loves seeing people who haven’t cycled much for a while, discovering the simple joy of riding a bike.

“Really, it’s a bit like selling legal recreational drugs. After being out on a bike for a while, I see people come in relaxed, smiling and triumphant about achieving the day’s ride”.

While many who took part in last year’s ride were content with just the 30 – 40 km of riding each day, keener riders also undertook the ‘extra sweat’ options. “We rate these as 1, 2 and 3 droplets. The ‘three droplet’ extra section on Day 1 is hard yakka! It’s a great challenge for keen cyclists who have come along with more easy going family members and friends.

Day two has a really gorgeous extra sweat option on the Discovery Trail, which follows a disused tramline – we rate this section as two droplets, while Day 3 Extra Sweat option is just one droplet – it’s a beautiful ride out along a ridgeline with views of the mountains, then back along next to the river. Everyone can manage this one! ” THE GREAT EAST RAIL TRAIL RIDE is on from Friday October 2nd to Sunday October 4th.

More information and bookings are available on the website: greateast.com.au Words and photos courtesy of Liz Mitchell of Snowy River Cycling

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BACKGROUND The support for young cyclists demonstrating athletic talent is to say the least ‘patchy’; some areas and clubs are encouraging and supportive, some are not. The support for women’s cycling is even more sporadic particularly in most country areas.

Gippsland is not an exception; the number of women holding racing licences is much much lower than in any Metropolitan area and most other country areas.

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However that doesn’t mean that Gippsland can’t and doesn’t produce talented young female cyclists, it just means that the right support needs to be provided to take more of them to the state and national level of racing.

needs support and help with the costs of material and travelling, both within the State and interstate. She also needs people to back her in her endeavours, help with the driving, technical support, training and advice etc. etc.

The entry costs of getting into the sport are quite high, a bike, a licence and sufficient clothing are already a hurdle; when allied with the dearth of women’s racing and the necessity to travel to compete in women’s races, the costs just increase. Any woman who demonstrates the physical talent and wishes to race seriously,

The Victorian cycling governing body (Cyclesport Victoria) is the most advanced state body in terms of supporting Women’s Cycle racing by means of the VRS (Victorian Road Series) a series of both one day and short multi stage races run in Victoria from February through to early December. The venues vary

AIMS The aim of the development squad is to provide the guidance and support for new or young riders to reach their full potential.

Help with training methods Conducting training camps Entry and support in VRS races Entry and support in NRS races Help riders to achieve National representation

PLANS To attract new riders with athletic potential, develop their potential by providing structured training programmes, material support where possible and opportunities to compete against the states’ best athletes via the VRS and subsequently the NRS race schedules.

NEEDS Sponsor support is required to make the team and its aims a reality to help make available: MATERIAL SUPPORT Bikes Wheels Clothing Sports nutrition COVER FOR EXPENSES Travel Accommodation/meals Race entry fees Words and photographs courtesy of Ray Rhodes

from Lakes Entrance in the East to Warrnambool in the west and Shepparton in the north of the state. The ability to travel and support the cost of travel and accommodation are a fundamental requirement.

The Australian cycling governing body (Cycling Australia) promotes the next level of women’s racing the NRS (National Road Series) where racing standards are just below international level and where successful girls can represent Australia and/or move to European or US professional teams.

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CHARLOTTE

McSHANE WORLD TRIATHLON CHAMPION Tell us about your early life in Bairnsdale?

I moved to Bairnsdale from Scotland with my family in 2005 and they live in Mount Taylor, about 10km from Bairnsdale itself. It’s beautiful out there and perfect for cycling and running as there are kilometres of trails right from my doorstep.

What inspired you to take up Triathlons?

My older sisters and father competed in triathlons in Scotland in the early 90’s when it was a relatively new sport - I grew up following them around to races so it was only natural I’d start myself when I was old enough to take part! I love the challenge of triathlon - it is extremely difficult to get the right balance of all 3 sports.

How is your training coming along for Rio in 2016?

Training has been going well - I’ve had a few really great races this year. I’ve actually just returned from Rio where we had the first and only opportunity this year to qualify for the Australian team. Unfortunately I didn’t have a very good race, however no Australian female met the qualification standard and so there will still be 3 spots up for grabs, which will be decided early next year.

When performing in a triathlon, of the three, do you enjoy the cycling over the other two?

It changes a lot throughout the year. I really enjoy running, but cycling is my strength so it can definitely be a lot of fun!

Where is your current overseas base?

At the moment I am based in Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Basque region of Spain. This is my 6th year spent now, so it is like my second home (Although my Spanish is very poor!)

On occasions, do you get to come home to Bairnsdale?

I spend 2 months of the year training nearby in Falls Creek, 3 months in Wollongong, NSW and 5-6 months travelling the globe racing where I’m mainly based in Spain. The rest of the time you can find me running along the Mitchell River or cycling up and down Mount Taylor!

Photo courrtesy of www.fotorunners.es Photographers

FOOTNOTE A few of Charlotte’s Winning Results August 2015 | Winner of Embrue French Grand Prix for team TCG79 Parthenay September 2013 | London ITU U23 World Championship Winner July 2013 | Liverpool British Spring Championships Winner February 2013 | Devonport Oceania Elite Sprint Distance Winner

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TRARALGON BOWLS CLUB

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

visit www.traralgonbowls.com.au

ALI'S ART

BRIAGOLONG & SURROUNDS

ARTS TRAIL & OPEN STUDIOS

By Ali Fullard

Some exciting news and events happening in this part of Gippsland!

November, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd 2015.

14 artists will open their studios to members of the public. This new venture will be repeated March 12th and 13th 2016. It is being promoted by Destination Gippsland (Victorian Tourism body) and supported by Wellington Shire Council and Wellington Regional Tourism, to raise the artistic profile of Briagolong, Stratford and surrounds. The artists work across a variety of mediums.

Techniques demonstrated by this group of enthusiastic and welcoming artists will be painting, drawing, ceramics, glassblowing, printmaking, metalwork, sculpture and textiles. Artists will also discuss what inspires their work and passion. A great opportunity to see artists in their natural habitat!

Free admission. Studios open 10am to 3pm both days.

For more information, contact Wellington Regional Tourism ph. 0405 387 906 or myself on 0427 327 494. Keep a look out for our flyers displaying a map and information on each of the artists and their studios.

Col Little

Dawn Stubbs

Gillian Kline

Artists involved Gillian Kline, Ali Fullard, Deb Milligan, Col Little, Kathy Luxford, Dawn Stubbs, Sue Fraser, Pat Waters, Maxine Salvatore, Sam Abbott, Gavin Roberts, Ness Power, Malcolm Boyd, Wendy Worner.

Deb Milligan

Wendy Worner Sam Abbott Ali Fullard

Pat Waters Ness Power

Kathy Luxford Malcolm Boyd Maxine Salvatore Sue Fraser

Gavin Roberts

WHAT'S ON Briagolong Art Gallery Phil Warner - “aLINEment.”

Vibrant paintings in oil and acrylic.

August 22nd to September 20th

Louisa Waters - “Remembering the Chinese Question.”

An exhibition exploring the early, little known, Chinese settlers of Central Gippsland. Pastel drawings and prints.

September 26th to October 25th

Freestone Press “New Works.” An exhibition displaying a range of traditional and innovative print making techniques by members of the Freestone Press Printmaking Group.

October 31st to November 29th

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

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

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

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

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

Australian Made Gift Shop unique objects crafted from banksia wood

Banksia Cafe provides the finest coffee in South Gippsland tea and homemade cookies

‘Banksia Lady’ biography signed

by Renowned Australian Botanical Artist Celia Rosser View Celia Rosser’s botanical art, sculptures and exhibitions

Open: Friday – Saturday – Sunday: 10:00am till 4:00pm and Public Holidays

Promontory Road, Fish Creek VIC 3959 03 5683 2628 www.celiarossergallery.com.au thelifestyle spring 2015

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YOUR EVENTS GUIDE SEPTEMBER 2015 LVTC WINTER TRIATHLON FESTIVAL Date: September 5 and 6 Location: Hazelwood Pondage 1 Yinnar Road, Hazelwood Contact: Andrew Legge 0438 150 315 LAUNCH TO THE SKIES FOR FATHER'S DAY Date: September 5 Time: 10.00am and 2.00pm Location: Latrobe Regional Airport 75 Airfield Road, Traralgon Contact: David Knowles Email: dave@bandicootflights.com.au MORWELL NATIONAL PARK WALKS Date: September 8 Time: 10.00am Contact: Stacey 1800 242 696 2015 AUST. NATIONAL DAFFODIL CHAMPIONSHIPS AND 59TH DAFFODIL & FLORAL SHOW Date: September 11 - 13 Time: Friday 2.00pm - 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 9.00am - 4.00pm Location: Memorial Hall, McCartin Street Leongatha Contact: Sue Thompson 5668 6334 FASHION RUNWAY EVENT Date: September 11 Time: 7.00pm Location: The Hub, Inverloch Contact: Kate 0419 599 309 2015 CHURCHILL ANNIVERSARY QUILT EXHIBITION Date: September 12 and 13 Time: 10.00am Location: Federation University, Churchill Contact: 5122 2955 STRZELECKI STRINGBUSTERS MUSICAL AFTERNOON Date: September 13 Time: 1.30 - 4.30pm Location: Heyfield Memorial Hall Contact: Louise Hill-Coleman 5148 2093

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OCTOBER 2015 NATIONAL RUGBY MATCH MELBOURNE RISING VS GREATER SYDNEY RAMS Date: September 19 Time: 2.00pm Location: Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium Crinigan Road, Morwell Contact: Web: www.melbournerising.com.au SHANNONS AUSTRALIAN MOTOR RACING NATIONALS 2015 Date: September 19 Time: 9.00am Location: Phillip Island Contact: 9803 3633 INSIDE THE BRICK WONTHAGGI 2015 Date: September 19 Time: 9.00am Location: Wonthaggi Contact: Inside The Brick 03 9481 7868 GIPPSLAND CANCER CHARITY RIDE Date: September 25 - 27 Time: 12.00pm onwards Location: Fernbank Road, Stockdale Contact: Scott Jennison 0429 854 797 Web: www.gippscancerride.com LAKE GLENMAGGIE FISHING FESTIVAL (CATCH A CARP) Date: September 26 Time: 8.00am - 8.00pm Location: Lake Glenmaggie Contact: Carol King 5148 0212 TCAG FIELD GRAND PRIX EVENT Date: September 27 Location: Latrobe City Archery Park Toners Lane, Morwell LIGHT THE NIGHT TRARALGON Date: September 30 Time: 5.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Traralgon Soundshell, Princes Hwy Contact: Dawn 0412 161 419

EIGTH ANNUAL COAL CREEK LITERARAY FESTIVAL 2015 THE MAGIC OF WORDS Date: October 3 Time: 11.00am - 5.00pm Location: Coal Creek, Korumburra Contact: 5655 1811 SALE ST.PAULS ANGLICAN PARISH FAIR Date: October 3 Time: 9.00am - 1.30pm Location: St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral & Delbridge Hall Contact: Jan Lear or Colin Irving 5144 2020 FAMILY FUN DAY Date: October 3 Location: Sale Plaza Mall Contact: Nigel Richards 0418 441 527 DERBY FEST - HOME GROWN TRARALGON Date: October 10 and 11 Time: 10.00am Location: Traralgon Sports Stadium Garibaldi Street, Traralgon Contact: 5182 6816 GARDEN AND HOME EXPO Date: October 10 and 11 Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm Location: Lardner Park Contact: Drouin Lions Club 5625 4589 6TH MELBOURNE TO MAFFRA RALLY Date: October 10 and 11 Time: 3.00pm Location: Gippsland Vehicle Collection Maffra Contact: Peter Quennell 0412 387 102 STRATFORD HERITAGE FARM DAY Date: October 11 Location: Pine Lodge Reserve Contact: Roslyn Benson 5145 6330 GIPPY ROCKS Date: October 16 - 18 Location: Sale Memorial Hall Contact: Andrew Camp 0407 541 335 2015 AUSTRALIAN MOTORCYCLE GRAND PRIX Date: October 16 - 18 Time: Gates open 9.00am Location: Cowes - Phillip Island Contact: 1800 100 030

mus must t see must go do

SPRING events NOVEMBER 2015 MOE APEX / LIONS COMMUNITY CARNIVAL & FIREWORKS DISPLAY Date: November 7 Time: 5.00pm - 10.30pm Location: Moe Apex Park, Waterloo Road, Moe PHILLIP ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL Date: November 13 - 15 Location: Phillip Island Contact: Jill Boyce 0417 416 300 jazz@phillipislandjazzfest.org.au

WONTHAGGI CITIZENS BAND IN CONCERT Date: October 17 Location: Wonthaggi Community Arts Centre Contact: Wayne Maloney 5672 1259 RACV Shop, 107 Graham Street Wonthaggi

44TH ANNUAL LEONGATHA ROSE SPECTACULAR Date: November 13 and 14 Location: Leongatha Memorial Hall Contact: Josie 5657 3292

NATIVE PLANT SHOW Date: October 17 and 18 Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Location: Historical Car Club Building, Sports Centre, Leongatha AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURE FESTIVAL Date: October 23 - 25 Location: East Gippsland Contact: www.adventurefestival.com FLAK - MICHAEL VEITCH Date: October 28 Time: 8.00pm Location: Esso BHP Billiton Wellington Entertainment Centre Contact: 5143 3200 WELSHPOOL SPRING FLOWER SHOW Date: October 30 and 31 Location: Welshpool Memorial Hall 49 Main Street, Welshpool Contact: Fran Grylls 5184 1376 TARRA MUSIC FESTIVAL Date: October 31 - November 1 Location: Yarram Contact: www.tarramusic.net.

V8 SUPERCARS Date: November 20 - 22 Location: Cowes-Phillip Island Contact: v8supercars.com.au THE SHEARWATER FESTIVAL Date: November 21 - 22 Location: Phillip Island Contact: info@shearwaterfestival.com.au ISLAND MAGIC Date: November 28 Time: 9.00am Location: Phillip Island Contact: 9803 3633

BASS COAST CYCLE CHALLENGE & FAMILY FESTIVAL Date: November 14 Location: Inverloch Contact: basscoastcyclechallenge.com THE GREAT ADVENTURE CHALLENGE Date: November 14 Location: Phillip Island Contact: Gary Farebrother 02 9676 6061 greatadventurechallenge.com.au

If you require your event to be promoted please email Gippsland the Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au

BUSHY PARK TRACTOR PULL Date: November 14 Location: Bushy Park Tractor Pull Complex Contact: Bill Harvey 0429 149 225 SPRING FESTIVAL Date: November 20 Time: 4.00pm - 10.00pm Location: Tarwin Street and Commercial Road Morwell Contact: ReActivate Latrobe Valley 0476 045 892

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YOUR

MARKET

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

CALLIGNEE COMMUNITY MARKET

GUIDE TO

JUMBUNNA BUSH MARKET

PAYNESVILLE FARMERS MARKET

KONGWAK MARKET

REH CORK CLUB CRAFT MARKET

1st Sunday of the month – 8.30am-1pm Location Public Hall, Cruickshanks Road Contact Dawn Wylie 5657 3253 Every Sunday – 10am-3pm Location Korumburra Road, Kongwak Contact Jane 0417 142 478

KOONWARRA FARMERS' MARKET

3rd Sunday of month – 8am-1pm October to May Location Callignee Hall Reserve Contact Lex 5147 3808

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

CHURCHILL ISLAND FARMERS’ MARKET

KOOWEE COMMUNITY 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 AND CRAFT 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

LAKES ENTRANCE SURF CLUB FORESHORE MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-12.30pm Location Coal Creek Community Park and Museum Car Park, Silkstone Rd, Korumburra Contact 5655 1811 - FREE Entry/Ample Parking

1st Sunday of the month – 9am-3pm Location Near the Rotunda - Foreshore, Lakes Entrance Contact Tom Morris 0407 098 805 or 5153 1916

COWES ISLAND CRAFT MARKET

Every Sunday - 8.30am-1.30pm Location Latrobe Road, Morwell (near Holmes Road) Contact 0449 294 453

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 PROM COUNTRY FARMERS’ MARKET

LATROBE COUNTRY MARKET

LOCH LIONS VILLAGE MARKET

2nd Sunday of month – October to April – 9am-1pm Location Loch Railway Siding Contact Barry Worsburgh 0418 500 520

LONGWARRY FIRE BRIGADE MARKET 1st Sunday of the month 8am-1pm Location Longwarry Fire Station, Bennett St Contact Janine 5629 9636 or 0419 158 946

LUCKNOW MARKET

4th Sunday of the month - 8.30am-1pm Location Howitt Park, Princes Highway, East Bairnsdale Contact 0432 602 007

MAFFRA VARIETY & FARMERS’ MARKET 1st Sunday of month - 9am-1pm Location Main St/Johnson St, Maffra Contact 5144 1108 or 0408 057 772

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Foster War Memorial Arts Centre Main Street, Foster Contact Catherine McGlead 0407 543 371

MALLACOOTA ARTISANS MARKET

FOSTER PROMONTORY PRODUCE & CRAFT MARKET

MEENIYAN MID WEEK MARKET

Sunday, 1 November & 6 December– 8am-2pm Location Foster Showgrounds, Station Road Contact Max Parnell 5682 2654

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 Greaves Memorial Park, Temple Street Contact 5148 3408 or 5148 2394

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

JOHNSONVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET 1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm Location Johnsonville Hall, Princes Highway Contact Perry 5156 4162

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SPRING

1st Saturday of month – 8am-12pm Location Mallacoota Mudbrick Pavilion, Maurice Ave Contact Leah 0467 856 236

3rd Thursday of month – 10am-2pm Location Whitelaw Street Contact Tracey Robertson 0402 995 063

METUNG FARMERS’ MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Village Green in Metung Contact Tracey O’Brien 0409 233 648

MIRBOO NORTH COUNTRY MARKET

Last Saturday of month + 13 December – 8.30am-1pm Location Baromi Park, 49 Ridgway Contact Bev Cook 5668 1688

NEERIM DISTRICT ALLEY MARKET

4th Sunday of month – 9am-1pm Location 147 Main Neerim Road, Neerim South

NOWA NOWA FARMERS MARKET

3rd Sunday of month - 9am-2pm Location Mingling Waters Caravan Park Contact 0409 233 648

OLD GIPPSTOWN HERITAGE PARK MARKET 3rd Saturday of month – 9am-2pm Location Lloyd Street, Moe Contact 5127 3082

PAKENHAM COMMUNITY MARKET

3rd Sunday of month – 8am-1pm Location Pakenham Football Club, Toomuc Reserve Contact Noel 0422 822 688

3rd Saturday of month - 8am-12pm Location Gilsenan Reserve Contact Scott 0409 524 399

2nd Saturday of month until May – 7am-1pm Location Kay Street Gardens, Traralgon Contact Chris Van Der Meer 0487 342 675

ROKEBY COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Saturday of month September to May– 8am-1pm Location Rokeby Reserve, Brandy Creek Road Contact 5626 8523

ROSEDALE 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 - 2 November – 7.30am-2pm Location Tarwin Lower Memorial Hall, Riverside Drive Contact John 5663 7505

TARWIN LOWER LOCAL MARKET

2nd Saturday of month September to May at 2pm-6pm Location Tarwin Lower Primary School, School Road Contact: 0410 466 260

TOORA COMMUNITY MARKET

2nd Saturday of month - 7.30-1pm Location Former Bonlac Store, Jetty Road, Toora Contact 5686 2690

TRARALGON FARMERS’ MARKET

4th Saturday of month - 8am-1pm Location Kay Street Gardens Contact 0409 232 715 Traralgon Lions Club

WARRAGUL ARTS MARKET

3rd Saturday of month – 9am-1pm October to March Location Civic Park Warragul Contact Jessie McLennan 5626 7045

WARRAGUL FARMERS MARKET 3rd Saturday of month – 8.30am-1pm Location Civic Park, Warragul Contact 0425 259 177

WONTHAGGI MAKE IT BAKE IT MARKET 2nd Sunday of month, rain, hail or shine 9am-1pm Location McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi Contact 0417 370 488

WONTHAGGI ROTARY MARKET

2nd Sunday of month - 8am-1pm Location Park, Murray St, Wonthaggi Contact Max Williams 5672 5204

YARRAGON COMMUNITY CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET

4th Saturday of month – 9am-2pm Location Yarragon Public Hall, Campbell St Contact Alison Butterworth 5634 2209

YARRAM VARIETY MARKET

1st Sunday of month - 8am-1pm Location Guide & Scout Hall, Yarram Contact 0419 362 083

PAYNESVILLE LIONS CLUB MARKET 2nd Sunday of month - 8.30am-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

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

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

Locally based third generation family owned business.

Depots in Bairnsdale, Omeo and Melbourne.

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

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

TWICE WEEKLY: Mallacoota and Cann River

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

Contact Details Craig Grinter 0148 516 857 Fax (03) 5152 3329 Email bhaul@bigpond.net.au

ISSUE 24 SPRING CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS

DOWN

1. Ravenous (9) 5. Yearning (5) 7. Cover up (5) 9. Karma (4) 10. Violent (6) 12. Awkward (6) 13. Peel (4) 15. Feasible (5) 16. Applaud (5) 18. Cause a scene (9)

1. Rival (3) 2. Knob (4) 3. Provenance (6) 4. Piece of the action (7) 6. Market place (7) 8. Pandemonium (7) 9. Travelling agent (7) 11. Scaling (6) 14. Maintain (4) 17. Appendix (3)

issue 23 WINTER puzzle Answers

GET THINKING thelifestyle spring 2015

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west gippsland

SPRING in

with

LAURIE COLLINS Oh the flowers that bloom in the spring Tra La Tra Lee…. Well that’s seems to be the main focus of the spring season., Open Gardens, Gardivalia, orchids, Daffodils and all manner of plant related stuff seems to “spring” anew.

SEPTEMBER

5th Saturday starts off with Jindivick Market followed by Judy Mackintosh’s exhibition of animal and people portraits at the Red Tree Gallery at my sculpture garden in Jindivick This opens at 2.00pm and is on for most of the month www.judymackintosh.com 6th On the Sunday the wonderful and diverse Longwarry Market (1st Sunday of each month) is on and in Rosedale in Prince Street, a Man Cave Market. (I am predicting not so many flowers.)

11th brings the Daffodil Floral Show and Festival to Leongatha in the memorial Hall entry $5 - goes all weekend Contact: 03 56686334 and The Warragul Regional College Antiques and Collectables Fair in their school Hall 9.30am to 3.00pm.

Rokeby Market also returns from hibernation on this Saturday (8am to 1pm) (2nd Saturday of each month).

12th On the Sunday my crystal ball tells me the Psychic and Wellbeing Expo at Lardner park is on all day www.sacredmist.com.au and for something less spooky is the Darnum Musical Village Market Fair with music and stalls.

Contact: 0437122441 19-20th brings the West Gippsland Orchid Club Orchid Show at Drouin Anglican Church Hall (9am-4pm) as well as Warragul and Drouin Farmers Markets on the Saturday and the Hill End Market on the Sunday…well worth the drive!

26th Saturday has the Longwarry Social Dance Club dance at Longwarry Hall ($6) Contact: 0459579388 and on the Sunday 27th are Yarragon and Neerim Sth Markets as well as the Noojee Station Market, the first arts and craft market at Noojee at the Noojee Heritage Centre and Train Station.

OCTOBER

Saturday 3rd has the Coal Creek Literary Festival opening like a book.

Sunday 4th at Lillico Gallery (in Lillico) Gardivalia www.gardivalia.com.au launches with Celia Collins’ Fertile Garden Exhibition which focuses on textiles to show plants and flowers and goes to the 31st. Contact: 56231592 Of course Longwarry Market on the Sunday as well as the Last of the Chrome Bumpers at Lardner Park www.lardnerpark.com.au

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Saturday 10th is Rokeby Market again and also the Baw Baw Garden and Home Expo at Lardner Park and Ahn Do is on in the evening at The WGAC (West Gippsland Arts Centre) www. wgac.com.au Sunday 11th sees the Expo continue but a real delight to follow would be to go to Willow Grove and have a picnic by Blue Rock Lake. This is surely a real undiscovered treasure in the area.

17th Warragul Arts Market returns from its winter break and this is the first full weekend of Gardivalia Open Gardens lots of private gardens to see. www.gardivalia.com.au Starting Thursday night and going all weekend 22nd to the 25th is Warragul Rotary Club Art Show at the WGAC and while you are running around looking at the art, there is the Geoff Watt Half Marathon on the Sunday (03 9589 4544).

Gardivalia also has this weekend full of open gardens and activities.

Saturday 31st is Halloween at Coal Creek www.coalcreekvillage.com.au and this looks like a wonderful family event with the odd scare!

Also starting this day and going to 4th November is Inspired Gardens of West Gippsland.

Contact jindigardener@bigpond.com.

NOVEMBER

Saturday 7th depending how you are feeling there is a Felting Class Fundraiser in Yarragon. Baw Baw Sustainability Network in conjunction with Pink Fly and Fozzigobble Café are running a series of felting classes to raise funds for ReStore Email: bbsn@dcsi.net.au Having Felt you can then “feel” by going to the WGAC to see the Russian National Ballet perform Sleeping Beauty. If Ballet is a bit too cultural, head to Moe for a Moe Apex / Lions Community Carnival and Fireworks Display 2015.

Sunday 8th could be a day to visit the galleries of Yarragon with both the Station Gallery and Town and Country always having interesting shows and the cafes and food in Yarragon is another drawcard. Perhaps a trip to Mt Worth to work off the lunch?

Starting Friday 13th and going all weekend is the Phillip Island Jazz Festival with lots of music and other events. www.phillipislandjazzfest.org.au An even more active event on Sat 14th is Summit Survivor at Trafalgar. www.summitsurvivor.com.au On Sunday 15th, slightly closer to home, is the Garden Walk for East Timor. This will take place in some of the beautiful gardens in the Neerim South district. Email: marilynd269@gmail.com Sunday 22nd Craft Markets of Australia come back to Lardner Park www.lardnerpark.com.au Saturday 28th try a Sunset Dinner on the Terrace at Peppermint Ridge Farm after a Twilight Bushfood garden tour -Tynong North Road, Tynong North. www.peppermintridgefarm.com.au.

Have a great spring….and flowers are for giving and events are for sharing.

Good on ya...

Laurie Sculpture Garden & Red Tree Gallery

www.lauriecollins.com.au

Ricki WOOD

by Ian W. Beer

I first ran into Wonthaggi based musician Ricki Wood playing a lively acoustic set at the Acoustic Café in Collingwood. Ricki had not been long back in Australia from New Zealand and was getting back into the Melbourne music scene on route to playing up at Mt Hotham for the snow season. As a performer, Ricki knows how to relate to an audience, and although there were many acts that graced the Acoustic Café, Ricki was a performer to remember.

A born showman, he is equally at home as a consummate guitarist and a fine vocalist. He has been playing professionally for over 10 years.

“I would say a huge inspiration has always been the people who have said 'you can't do music for a living'. Pffff….’’ Ricki has certainly made a living from something he loves. From seven nights a week residencies in Auckland to an offer of a couple of gigs in Hong Kong that went on for ten months. Countless weddings, parties and so on and keeping the snow bunnies warm through winter in the Victorian Alps and on the slopes of Japan, just to mention a few.

“I have made a living. I am not rich, but I want for nothing more than what I have. I am happy in life and I am thankful to my muse for what she has given me over the years.”

Unlike many musicians who now call Gippsland home, Ricki was Gippsland born and bred.

Spending his early years in Maffra, he was first introduced to the music vibe through growing up in the East Gippsland town. His earliest musical memories come from his older sisters who dabbled in guitar and keyboards but it was getting his pre-teen angst out on the kitchen hardware where this future musician planted his musical roots. “I bashed around on mums pots and pans for drums when I was around six.’’ It wasn’t long before his dad taught him a C chord on the guitar and he soon left his impromptu percussion career for a more tenable future with a six string in hand.

Not that Ricki didn’t ever pick up a drum stick again; he has played drums, keyboards and bass guitar over his career, but it is guitar that has been his weapon of choice.

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When I caught up with Ricki again, he was running an open mic at the Caledonian Hotel in Wonthaggi. After a call from a close mate who was running the pub had asked Ricki down to play a show, he decided to stay and make the old Coal Mining town his home. “I fell in love with the town and I loved the laid back vibe.”

So when his mate asked if he could bring some musicians into the hotel, Ricki jumped at the opportunity and took on the promoter role, leading to his sea change move. It also planted the seed to start up his own booking agency.

Although the environment he lives and works in doesn’t directly influence his music, he has gained inspiration from a kaleidoscope of streetscapes that have shaped his being and have fed his muse. “If it happens that I am on a snow covered mountain with no one around me, or maybe a back street of Hong Kong in a street filled with the stench of piles of rubbish I can still find inspiration in that environment. I don’t need to be in a certain room with certain incense burning to channel my music spirits.”

Having played thousands of gigs over the years, there isn’t too much material or musical styles that Ricki hasn’t dabbled in. When asked the question he answers succinctly, “It's probably easier to say what I don’t play, which is pretty much hip hop / r'n'b. All else is pretty much catered for. I do lack Jazz chops though. I sure do wish I had the chord knowledge and discipline to commit to learning jazz.”

Ricki’s live performances draw on 60 years of music, playing mainly cover songs. He has also dabbled in original music and has a couple of albums to his credit, including an album from a former Metal Band he played in while living in NZ. When he takes a break from his solo career he plays with a 3 piece band. “I do have a band called Baxter, which are a 3 piece band

and a lot of fun. We play covers and originals and recently opened for Mental As Anything, and was a hell of a lot of fun to play some old originals I wrote many years ago that I have been hanging out to play again.”

With a busy performing career, a burgeoning music booking agency and his boundless energy for mentoring young talent, this sea change certainly hasn’t left much time for lying in the sun.

These days with solo gigs in and around South Gippsland in venues such as The Caledonian, Cape Tavern and the iconic Kongwak market, as well as running his local booking agency his sea change is not offering much of a change in pace. He is enthusiastic in contributing to the local music scene and he is putting his experience to good use.

Ricki’s parting advice to aspiring Gippsland musicians: “Just go play live. It will sharpen you and it will open you up to meeting other musicians and venues that can all help you build your name and your career.”

Playing live has certainly opened up this local musician’s long and rewarding career in music.

“I know a lot of musicians can be shy, and some simply say ‘there's nowhere to play'.... Well there is, and I want to see these bands grow and be a part of the scene down here.”

Ricki has certainly made a big impact on the emerging Gippsland music scene. He is always encouraging local artists. He believes in the talent down south and is getting behind it with boundless enthusiasm encouraging them to “Get out and find shows to play. Yes you will make mistakes, you will sing words wrong, and you will hit a wrong note, but don’t worry about that stuff. Go easy on yourself and don't judge every little note you play wrong. It's just music, have fun with it and allow it to be whatever it will be.”

He enthuses about the talent that surrounds his new found home which has inspired his resolve to get local music heard. “When I hear musicians like Colin Matthews, Teresa Dixon, Bern Carroll doing acoustic shows I am always humbled by their musicianship and pure talent.

I also love much heavier bands such as The Weight of Silence who are writing and recording absolute world class songs.”

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Dexter

Murphy

Zac

The Mayor

Angel Tess

Roman

CORNER

Lily Marie

Tiger

Indi

Uli + Nelson

Willow

Titch

Vince

Benson

Bella

Lucky

Honey

Peppi

Please email Gippsland The Lifestyle thelifestyle@dcsi.net.au if you would like to place a photo of your dog in Canine Corner Steve White, Cartoonist

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Chrissy’s Positive Horoscope Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20

Libra Sept 24 - Oct 23

This is a big time career change for many of you, there can also be an opportunity for travel within this change you see this as a great opportunity even though there maybe some fear around that, however the change is required as if you keep doing the same as always you will keep getting the same results. Your health and wellbeing is also becoming a lot more important to you and once you can focus on some of the habits you have created in your day you will recognize that this to can be changed, you will have a light bulb moment and you will want to get help in creating the changes that you are wanting, remember your thoughts now are creating your future. Think POSITIVE!

Saturn the planet of focus and discipline in your communication zone, do not be afraid to tell the truth rather than trying to keep the peace to keep a certain person happy, its okay not to just go along with everyone for the sake of it, especially if it is something you feel is affecting your happiness. You are going to be a lot more honest and upfront this quarter, which may shock a few people. November will prove to be a great month for you and you will start to find a little more flexibility so life is not so difficult. EMBRACE Change with ease!

Secret Desire: To lead the way for others

Secret Desire: To live an easy, uncomplicated life

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22 Secret Desire: To triumph

Taurus Apr 21 - May 21

Secret Desire: To have a secure, happy and wealthy life/marriage

You are in a period of Spiritual experimentation and discovery. Saturn retrogrades back into your relationship zone in September, you are emerging from a long dark tunnel of which you will be completely out of by September 18, you are attracted to those you can learn from and those from other lands, falling in love with an educator is not out of the question. In your career you want to do something that is meaningful and benefits the world as a whole and you want to feel divine approval for your career path. Your financial planet mercury is moving very fast and you may find streams of income coming from different sources. Remember where you have come from and allow yourself to move to where you want to be without any guilt or hurt. Time for freedom of your own thoughts. STAY FOCUSED!

Saturn has moved into your cash flow for the next few years which will make you feel a lot more relaxed and able to make moves in your life without having to answer to others or worrying about the outcome. Saturn the planet of life lessons has left your sign; its like the parking brake is off and you will feel like you have a lot more freedom. You need to do your thing this year even though this may bring with it some discomfort, allow a little time and you will notice the MAGIC within you will really start coming out once and for all and you will see life incredibly different than it has been before. LET GO of the old patterns to allow the NEW to come in. ENJOY THE JOURNEY!

Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 21

Secret Desire: To make a difference in the world

Your emphasis at this time is on quality not quantity, this is relating to a few areas in your life, relationships especially even though you may want to jump in big time, just slow down and do what your being guided to do as you are still getting to understand your purpose in life. Those of you that are in a relationship will be required to be mindful of how you are treating your loved ones and if there are any issues it is a good time to get honest with yourself and speak about them in a kind and loving way. STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF!

This is a time of maturity, starting to really get to know yourself and having fun with that, looking towards what is important for your future, however remember the importance of focusing on what is happening in your life now, what your thoughts are like and is that working towards your future plans. This is a time for no holding back you only get one shot at this life so start being aware of what feels good for you and stop worrying about others that maybe in a dark place, although you know how that feels it is your time to step out and start LIVING. You have a very strong charismatic personality and can be a very positive influence for others around you, so allow yourself to go out and start experiencing things you have not experienced before so you can understand your full potential. FUN & LAUGHTER!

Cancer Jun 22 - July 22

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 20

This can be a time for you to prosper. If you have children allow yourself to get out and play with them, bring some joy into that area of life, its not all about the monetary things in life, you know you are okay in that area. I know when you set an intention you can certainly make things happen, you can be that role model to someone that you would have never expected. In romance be honest with yourself before committing your heart wholly and solely, trust in your own intuition and allow yourself to be guided.

Get outside with the MAGIC!

It has felt like a long winter, a few of you have certainly been faced with some challenges but when you come from a Grateful place you realise how lucky and happy you really are. An intensely spiritual time of your life and you will be surrounding yourself with spiritual teachers. If your movie is not running the way you want it to, find out why and change it! A time to surround yourself with positive, successful people and find out some golden nuggets that you might learn from doing so. Stay grounded but allow yourself to understand your inner self to take the steps to the next level, otherwise things will stay the same. Allow yourself to have fun, flirt a little and know when you are in a positive space that is what you will attract into your life. Keep moving towards what you LOVE and trust in your decisions.

Gemini May 22 - June 21

Secret Desire: To be ahead of the crowd

Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally, spiritually, romantically & financially)

Leo July 23 - Aug 23

Secret Desire: To be a star

Your mantra this year is to keep your spirits high! At times life can be challenging for you as can be for all of us, however given your heightened times for spending can cause other issues in relationships. Having said that lady luck is on your side this quarter. Let your desires come in, slow down and think a little before diving into something that you have not totally researched. It is a time to allow new prospects into your life and to be open, ask for guidance and trust the way you feel prior to signing anything on the dotted line, make sure it is really what you want and your not making a decision based on what someone else wants. ALLOW NEW BEGINNINGS INTO LIFE!

Virgo Aug 24 - Sept 23

Secret Desire: To love and be loved in return

Best month for you this quarter is September, there will be increases in financial flow, whilst coming at a time where your ESP will be kicking in extraordinarily more so than normal, so listen to this and allow yourself to be guided to what flows with ease and brings joy and happiness at the same time, do not fight it, accept it for what it is and notice how that makes you feel. For those of you who have a partner there have been some times that have really tested your love for one another, so whilst your sorting out your own life it will flush out any toxins in your relationship once and for all. Remember to take out some special time to do something you absolutely LOVE!

Secret Desire: to be admired by their family, friends & the world at large

Aquarius Jan 21 - Feb 19

Secret Desire: To be unique and original

Oh yeah get up and smell the roses, time to get out of your head and into your heart, lighten up. Live and let live so to speak. When l say get out of your head it is really about thinking way too much and hard about your situation right now. This is a time to come into you’re own, perhaps allow yourself to listen more to what others are saying, and talking less or only when you really have something important or meaningful to say. Let go of outcomes and you will find if your not trying so hard to make something happen that it is more likely to come to fruition. Keep calm and breathe!! Perhaps get the camera out take some nice pictures of what is happening in your life now, creating the happy memories and looking towards a more prosperous future. Stay focused; however allow movement into your life!

Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20

Secret Desire: To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities

Neptune your ruler is gracing your presence this quarter, it is a time to follow your dreams and do not let anyone influence you, this is your life, your decision, get clear with it and it will come. August is and has been a month to embrace Love in your life, knowing that Love of self and others is a wonderful thing, you might start seeing others in your life in a different light and recognizing things about them that you have not noticed before, let them know what your noticing by allowing it to be a positive experience for you all. Work can be a struggle at times, this is an opportunity to get real with yourself and make some changes in your career. ACTION is required for change to take place.

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

SPRING CLEAN YOUR LIFE "Out of Clutter, find Simplicity" Albert Einstein

Traditionally Spring Cleaning has been seen as a way to clear, clean and air out everything that has been collecting dust over the cooler winter months around the home…..but why just limit it to within the home? With spring upon us, why not this year, see spring cleaning as an opportunity to lighten, simplify and create space in all areas of your life!

Toxicity and clutter come in all shapes and sizes.

Old and out-dated habits, lifestyle choices and relationships can cause just as much harm or mental clutter as a house or room that needs a good old clean out. We feel better when we've cleaned out our homes; in much the same way, we feel lightness when we let go of those things in our lives that no longer serve us.

You can easily clean up mental clutter and renew your mind and your soul. To help you get started, here are some things to consider in each area of your life.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL BODY

It’s no secret that the state of your physical body deeply affects both how you think and how you feel. Aside from eating a good balanced diet, drinking water, participating in some form of physical activity and getting plenty of sleep, how else can we give this life area an overhaul? The number one stressor these days is that life is too fast paced. It can be difficult if not impossible to keep up.

By slowing down and being present we can alleviate stress. Spend anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes on a regular basis in quiet contemplation, just you and your thoughts. Disconnect from technology; refuse to answer calls, emails or texts after a particular time each evening. Listen to a meditation, first thing in the morning or last thing at night. Review your commitments; do they energise you or deplete you? Indulge yourself in a massage or treatment regularly and renew your body.

WEALTH AND FINANCES

Poorly managed finances can again cause great amounts of stress and anguish for many on a daily basis. Spring clean your finances and re-examine where you’re spending money and where you could save. Do you need both Foxtel AND Fetch TV? Do you spend $10 every day on lunch? See where you can cut corners and save a little more.

Perhaps enlist the help of a financial adviser or professional.

RELATIONSHIPS AND PERSONAL LIFE

Toxic relationships drain your energy. Don’t underestimate how much they can affect your mood, physical energy and overall zest for life.

Over time, they can also affect your self-esteem.

This is probably one of the least pleasant areas to spring clean, but it’s one of the most important.

None of us wants to see friends and family as having a negative influence on our lives, but if they are holding us back from being truly happy and fulfilled, we need to take a hard look at the role they play.

Be honest with yourself and take a look at the relationships that may not be right for you, or which you may have outgrown. You can’t expect your friends and family to change, but you can respect your own journey and take responsibility for your own actions. It’s not always necessary to cut people out of your life completely, but make a conscious decision as to the type of people you want to surround yourself with on a regular basis.

CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE

If your job or career has been making you unhappy, then it may be time to examine this life area.

We spend a large part of our life at work so it’s crucial that we enjoy what we do and for many our career or professional life impacts our identity and self-esteem. Whilst I’m not suggesting that you quit your job if you are unhappy as we all need an income source, I am suggesting that you ask yourself some questions that might clean up and identify some of the issues surrounding your unhappiness at work.

ENVIRONMENT AND HOME Whether it’s the home or your car, clutter in your outward life often indicates clutter in your internal life. Take charge of the external chaos and it can change the way you think and feel. Research shows that 88% of Australians have at least one cluttered room with 4/10 people feeling anxious, depressed or guilty about it!

Author James Wallman, calls it “Stuffocation” which put simply means we are allowing material objects to stand in the way of living a fuller, happier life. His message of stuffocation isn’t anti-stuff; it’s about anti too much stuff! Asking yourself questions like “How much do I really need?” and “Do my things give me an experience and make me happy or do they bring hassle, debt, stress and depression into my life?” It’s about clearing out the clutter in your home and environment and focusing on living and doing instead.

Think of spring cleaning as a way to update and refresh your life much the same way in which we would if our computer slows down and requires a clean out of files to run at its optimal. When you spring clean your life, you’ll reduce procrastination, improve concentration and problem solving skills, see a better work/life balance, feel less stressed and see improved efficiency overall. Now I certainly think that is a positive!!

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BOOK LAUNCH COUNTRY TOWN QUILT

by Ken Roberts The launch of “Country Town Quilt”

by Ken Roberts will be a community event in Maffra!

On 21st November 2015, 2pm at St Mary’s School hall, Duke Street Maffra.

Senator Ricky Muir will launch the book.

Paintings are from several of Ken's exhibitions that focussed on country life.

Ken Roberts was born, lives and works in Maffra.

He is a nurse, renowned visual artist having had exhibitions around Gippsland and Melbourne for many years; and now writer and also contributor to ABC Open. He shares stories of the people who live in and around Maffra, who have inspired him to write. He has a passion for recounting the lives of everyday country people, hence the book follows on with this in the written form.

Ken's book, "Country Town Quilt" captures life growing up in a small Victorian country town.

Stories from the town seamstress and cobbler hark back to simpler times. We read of the family of 13 who lived a happy life in a two bedroom Boisdale cottage. The fascinating tale of the "Grocer's Boy" who began work in the 30's at 14 and experienced amazing changes until the advent of "self service" in the 60's.

It involves some of Ken's own personal journey of growing up in the 60's, coming home from school to freshly baked jam drops on the kitchen bench and exploring the surrounding countryside rabbiting with his cousin.

It is a sweet, uncomplicated and positive exploration of country life.

The stories mostly centre on the people in and around Maffra and illustrate their lives past and present.

It is a ‘patchwork’ of stories, part memoir, part social history which explores and preserves the fascinating lives of these "ordinary" country people. It shares a wonderful tapestry of tales that have sometimes been hidden and untouched for generations. Much of this social history would have been lost if it had not been recorded here.

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He is excited that many of these everyday people will be recognized for their contributions and struggles.

"It is the quintessential tale of growing up in a country town!” says Ken. Come along and participate in this local event.

Everyone is welcome!

Books will be available to be purchased and signed on the day, $20 each, and afterwards at Gippsland Real Estate, Johnson St Maffra.

Books can be mailed anywhere within Australia for $24, including postage and handling.

Email: countrytownquilt@outlook.com Facebook: Ken Roberts Art

FOR SALE

St Johns Catholic Church - Circa 1914 259 Glenmaggie Road, GLENMAGGIE

• Elevated 2.02 hectare (approx. 5 acre) block with outstanding views overlooking Lake Glenmaggie • Converted to residence in late 1980s • Many original features including stained glass windows and pressed metal ceilings • 3 bedrooms plus study, 2 bathrooms (large spa bath) • Three separate living areas • Town water plus tanks • Double carport, lined games/rumpus/studio/music room and workshop • Your chance to purchase a slice of history

Price by Negotiation Contact Kevin Lanigan Mobile: 0408 472 566 kevin@gremaffra.com.au

118-120 Johnson Street, MAFFRA (03) 51472200 4 Temple Street, HEYFIELD (03) 51483007 www.gippslandrealestate.com

where you can get your copy Bairnsdale newsXpress 21 Bailey St Bairnsdale Stow's Authorised 212 Main Street Bemm River Bait & Tackle 20-26 Sydenham Inlet Road Berwick Newsagency 29-31 High Street Boolarra Store & Newsagency 9 Tarwin Street Briagolong Riverstone Café 2/12 Forbes Street Buchan Caves Reserve Tourist Office Bunyip IGA 2-6 Main Street Bunyip Newsagency Shop 2, 2-6 Main Street Cape Paterson The Cape Store 2-4 Market Place Churchill Newsagency Hazelwood Village Shopping Centre Cowes Newsagency 44-46 Thompson Avenue Dalyston General Store 4213 Bass Highway Darnum General Store 456 Princes Hwy Drouin Burrows Newsagent & Tattslotto 93 Princes Way Dumbalk Village Store 25 Farmers Road Erica General Store School Road, Henty Street Fish Creek, Alison Lester 1 Falls Road Foster Newsagency 52 Main Street Garfield Licensed Post Office 77 Main Street Glengarry General Store Main Street Golden Beach Blue Water Fish & Chips Gormandale General Store 13 Main Road Heyfield IGA 18-22 George Street Inverloch FoodWorks 10-12 Reilly Street Inverloch Newsagency 10 A'Beckett Street Jindivick General Store 1055 Jacksons Track Koo Wee Rup Newsagency 44 Station Street Korumburra Michael's Supa IGA 1 South Railway Cres Lakes Entrance Lamanna's Newsagency 24 Myer Street Lang Lang IGA 32 Main Street Leongatha Michael's Supa IGA Cnr Church & Bruce Sts Lindenow General Store 147 Main Road Loch Sport General Store 2-4 Government Road Longford Lakeview General Store 115 Seaspray Road Longwarry R & T's Bake and Brew, 9 Mackey Street Maffra newsXpress 144 Johnson Street Mallacoota FoodWorks 48-50 Maurice Avenue Marlo General Store 14-16 Argyle Parade Meeniyan IGA 100-102 Whitelaw Street Metung Village Store 62 Metung Road Mirboo North Newsagency 52 Ridgway Morwell Card Alley Shop 33 Mid Valley Shopping Centre Morwell Newsagency 174-176 Commercial Road Neerim Junction General Store Main Road Neerim South FoodWorks 147 Main Road Newhaven IGA 8/10 Forrest Drive Newry General Store Main Street Omeo Post Office 155 Day Avenue Orbost FoodWorks 70-78 Nicholson Street Pakenham Newsagency 99-101 Main Street Paynesville Newsagency 65a The Esplanade Paynesville Kasama Decor 3/31 The Esplanade Poowong Takeaway Fish & Chips 6 Ranceby Street Rosedale Newsagency 1 Prince Street Sale Lord's Authorised Newsagency 248 Raymond Street Sale Newsagency 308-310 Raymond Street San Remo IGA 135 Main Parade

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This magazine is distributed throughout Victoria. All photographs in this publication are copyright to Gippsland the Lifestyle, and if any are used in other publications or used in a commercial sense, you are liable to prosecution. Permission to use any photos in the publication must be obtained by contacting Headlites Pty Ltd via email to: thelifetyle@dcsi.net.au Disclaimer: Headlites Pty Ltd has the discretion to add or remove words or photos that are deemed unsuitable for the magazine. Gippsland the Lifestyle Magazine©Headlites Pty Ltd 2015. Headlites Pty Ltd is not responsible or liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, nor use of information contained within these pages, offering no warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to any material contained within the pages. Material in this magazine cannot be published or reproduced without Headlites Pty Ltd's written consent. Failure to heed to this could result in prosecution. The opinions and views expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.

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thelifestyle spring 2015

the

BOOK NOOK on the shelf now

This issue I want to showcase well known Gippsland biographer, Carolyn Landon. Carolyn is best known for her biography of Daryl Tonkin, Jackson’s Track: Memoir of a Dreamtime Place, which was first published in 1999. Since then Carolyn has released three titles, which are represented here, the latest Banksia Lady: Celia Rosser, Botanical Artist.

Banksia Lady Celia Rosser Botanical Artisit by Carolyn Landon This is the story of Celia Rosser, internationally acclaimed botanical illustrator, who dedicated her life to painting the entire genus of Banksia, the only artist to have done so.

Her dedication to the task put her at the centre of the Monash Banksia Project for twentyfive years, and culminated in the production of an extraordinary three-volume florilegium that became one of the great books published in the twentieth century.

Banksia Lady reveals the emergence of an artist who grew up in difficult circumstances during the Great Depression and who pursued her art as a way of protecting herself from the harsher side of life.

featured children’s book author RUTH PARK

In telling this story of Celia Rosser’s unparalleled talent and extraordinary achievement, this book explores the history of botanical illustration, botany, academia, gardens and their herbarium, and Australia’s place in changing the shape of the world.

Cups With No Handles by Carolyn Landon Cups with No Handles explores the battle women face between a public life and the demands of family. Bette had a vision of a better world and her activism was a model for women in following generations. Bette Boyanton, a woman who struggled to overcome the disadvantages of poverty, lack of education, inequality and poor health, became an inspiring social reformer and political activist. Born in the 1920s into a poor family of eleven children, Bette was determined not to follow in the footsteps of her exhausted and discouraged mother. Her father, an unemployed returned soldier and member of the Communist Party, inspired Bette with ideas of equality, fairness and social justice, but, having left school at thirteen, Bette worked in menial jobs and married young. She soon found herself on an isolated dairy farm, struggling with children just as her mother had. She joined the Party working for women’s rights, she demonstrated, presented petitions, became a member of Women’s Electoral Lobby and was a founding member of Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres, part of a huge grassroots community movement focused on the empowerment of women through a philosophy of caring, sharing and new learning which opened up their horizons.

Born in New Zealand in 1917, Ruth spent most of her adult life in Australia. She was widely read and well-loved for her books which were as equally successful for adults as for children.

Ruth was catapulted into fame when she won the inaugural Sydney Morning Herald Literary Competition in 1946, with her novel The Harp in the South. This book has never been out of print. Her literary reputation grew as she honed her craft, writing fiction and non-fiction, winning a variety of awards and much acclaim. Her output of work spanned nearly seven decades. Ruth Park died in December 2010.

Black Swan A Koorie Woiman's Life by Eileen Harrison & Carolyn Landon A frank and powerful memoir of the life of an Aboriginal woman, from her early years on the Lake Tyers mission, to discovery of her talent as a painter.

Eileen Harrison grew up at the Lake Tyers Aboriginal Mission Station in the 1950s as one of eleven children in a tight-knit and loving family. When the new assimilation policy comes in, they are wrenched from the Mission and sent off to Ararat in the hope that they will become part of that community. Unable to build a stable life in the face of isolation and discrimination, the family is torn apart. Eileen must become the protector and the peacemaker. As a child, Eileen set free a black swan caught in a hessian bag. Now the story of the magical black swan from her childhood provides an uncanny map for her life as she struggles to find her path. After many years she discovers her talent as a painter and builds a new life for herself.

Powerfully told in Eileen's words, her experiences speak eloquently of what has happened to Aboriginal people over the last half-century.

watch for these coming soon…

The Lost Landscape Joyce Carol

Foster’s Little Bookshop

A Mother's Story Rosie Batty

Girl in the Woods Aspen Matis

4 Station Road, Foster 3960 ph (03) 5682 2089 visit www.fosterslittlebookshop.com.au

read our blog

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Blue

Family owned and operated - Blue Hills Rise joins the multi award winner Blue Hills Residences as the best 55 plus resort lifestyle options in Cranbourne East.

Looking for the best way to spend your retirement, Blue Hills Rise offers six unit designs with modern furnishings and fittings. If you want to downsize our two bedroom Stephanie Apartments, may just be the answer. Live independently, within a secure, caring environment.

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Hills Rise There are so many 55 plus lifestyle resorts around, all offering something different, the biggest question you need to ask is 'What am I looking for?'

Well, if you are looking for a quality home with access to some of the most amazing onsite facilities, then Blue Hills Rise is the best choice for you. This family owned and operated 55 plus resort, has a variety of home designs, all offering something just a little different to the last. You will quickly realise that the Resort Owners, Judy and Ivan Clarkson and family, are serious about the homes they build in their very popular resort in Cranbourne East. No expense has been spared; all fittings and furnishings are of an extremely high standard.

fantastic Onsite facilities Swimming Pool / Spa Indoor Bowls Dance Floor Tennis Courts Alfresco CafĂŠ - Orange Leaf Gymnasium Library Restaurant Sports Bar Cinema Arts and Crafts Centre Administration Centre ATM Computer Room BOWLING GREEN

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Blue Hills Rise 240 Berwick-Cranbourne Road Cranbourne East 3977

phone: 03 5991 5000