CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN JULY WITH PEPPERS MARYSVILLE
Embrace the magic of a wintery Christmas in July at Peppers Marysville!
Enjoy festive decorations, including a beautifully adorned Christmas tree, creating a cosy holiday atmosphere.
Indulge in a special Andiamo menu, featuring delicious seasonal flavours perfect for the occasion.
LOCALS RECEIVE 15% OFF AT ANDIAMO RESTAURANT & BAR AND 10% OFF ACCOMMODATION!
Scan here for more details: www.peppersmarysville.com.au
Warm up your winter with a festive feast in July!
Celebration Dinner
Saturday 26 July 2025
From 6.30pm
Indulge in the cozy comforts of the season with mulled wine, succulent roast turkey, glazed ham, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and traditional plum puddings served with a luscious brandy sauce.
Join us for a delightful three-course celebration dinner, complete with all the trimmings. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas surrounded by family and friends. Enjoy an evening of live music, a roving magician, and a special visit from Santa Claus!
$100 per adult (3 course dinner)
$40 per child (12 years and under) and includes a wrapped gift from Santa
Accommodation available on site, so come for dinner and stay the weekend! Fully licensed, no BYO. Bookings essential.
Book early! T: 5774
Top things to see and do in Murrindindi Shire this Winter
Experience snow play and tobogganing fun at Lake Mountain
Treat yourself to a tipple of local wine, whisky, beer or cider direct from the makers at their cellar doors and breweries
or
Enjoy delicious food and drinks, with friendly country hospitality at a cafe, restaurant or pub
Get the kids off their screens and out to one of our fantastic bush playgrounds
Book a romantic getaway in a cosy B&B or country estate
Magical, misty mornings and crisp, winter days provide the perfect setting to discover the Murrindindi region's spectacular landscapes, natural attractions and historic townships.
If you enjoy fern walks and majestic waterfalls, cycling and fishing, local history, fine food and wine, cosy getaways or a relaxing camping holiday, Murrindindi Shire has it all.
Whether you're a first time visitor or a Murrindindi regular, now is the perfect time to plan your winter getaway or 'staycation' - from a romantic weekend away to a family trip to the snow. Visit discoverdindi.com.au to discover the many great things to see and do in our beautiful part of Victoria’s High Country.
Snap a pic of a spectacular sunrise
sunset at a scenic lookout
Take a weekend hike in one of our national parks or state forests and check out our wondrous waterfalls
Ride one of our epic trailsmountain, gravel, road or rail
WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING JV DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITH SELECTED PARKS ACROSS NORTHEAST VIC. OFFERING “RESIDENTIAL LAND LEASE” & “PRIME SITE UPGRADE PACKAGES” TAYLORED TO SUIT YOUR PARK. For a confidential discussion please call Andrew Dundas on 0418338556 BH or Email andrew@readybuiltportables.com.au Web www.readybuiltportables.com.au Office and display 75 Deadhorse Lane Mansfield.
For a confidential discussion please call Andrew Dundas on 0418 338 556 BH or Email andrew@readybuiltportables.com.au Web www.readybuiltportables.com.au Office and display 75 Deadhorse Lane Mansfield. We are currently seeking JV development opportunities with selected parks across northeast Victoria
Meandering around Murrindindi .
MURRINDINDI
ARTS & TOURISM, BUSINESS & TRADES
GUIDE
Murrindindi’s INDEPENDENT guide to events and attractions across the shire and surrounds for locals and tourists alike. Pick up a copy at one of our advertisers or information centres in the shire or surrounding towns. Please support our advertisers as without them this magazine couldn’t be produced. If we support our local businesses and communities then we improve our local economy. Keep it local if you can.
Produced and published by Ann Friedel Publishing, 11 Albert Street Alexandra Victoria. Material published in the Murrindindi Arts & Tourism, Business & Trades Guide is protected by Australian and International copyright laws. Reproduction of any material in whole or part is not permitted without prior authorisation by the publisher. Ann Friedel Publishing has made every effort to ensure the information provided at time of printing is correct, but accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. Some components of some advertising in this magazine are made by Freepik.com or allfree-download.com. Events listed in this publication may be subject to change without notice.
Murrindindi-Guide
Mary Cutting: a journey from Nigeria to Yea
By Emily Friedel
Mary Cutting has called Yea home for more than a quarter of a century and hers is a familiar face to many in the area. Mary and her husband, Stephen, reside on a peaceful property on Frog Ponds Road, where they also run cottage guest accommodation. The life they lead here is worlds apart from the one Mary experienced growing up and transitioning to adulthood in Western Africa.
Mary’s hometown in the heart of Nigeria is about 14,000 kilometres away from Yea, and her family connection there is still strong.
“I am from a place called Diko, and I say it’s a small town, but it would have had over 4,000 people. Everyone knew each other and mostly we were farmers. People didn’t move around at all much, they stayed, and even our family home is still the family home. Nothing has changed that much,” she says.
It was in this farming community that Mary learned about caring for the sick, which later developed into a long and esteemed nursing career. Christian missionaries had established a clinic in the town, and Mary’s mother would cook food for the patients because many of them were a long way from home.
Above: Mary Cutting at her home in Yea. The house in the background is one she and her husband built from scratch with mud bricks. Below: Mary aged 18 finishing high school.
to Stephen’s mother. Mary says the local community embraced her and provided a “home away from home”.
Once in Yea, Mary and her growing family lived in a Department of Education residence for a while and then found the property they still own now. It was just land when they bought it, so she and Stephen set to work erecting buildings under their own steam.
“We were mad; we were absolutely crazy. We had energy. We were both working full time, and we built that big house because friends of ours had built their own mud-brick house. It’s a lot of work. It’s just mud, mud, mud daily, till you get the sense that it’s looking more like liveable.”
After finishing the main house, and with energy to spare, they built a mud-brick cottage next door. Over the years, the cottage has been a temporary home to many, witnessing scores of happy times. It has been a place for relatives to stay while they visit and for the Cutting children – Peter, Estelle and Lucille – to adjust to independent life before leaving the nest. Then, in 2016, the cottage was opened as a bed & breakfast, welcoming travellers from all over the world. Mary’s caring nature and love of interacting with people have endeared her to many of their guests, with friendships forming along the way.
“We had a whole group of women [from Japan] who would come here as a group, and this their base. They would go and see other places and then come back here and pack up their things before going home. They
Above: The cottage guest house, which is tucked away in a private area to the side of the main dwelling. Below: Inside the guest house is surprisingly spacious - comfortable for a family getaway. It also has been decorated to feel much like a cherished family space, making it feel inviting and cosy. Perfect for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle and making the most of Yea’s rural charm.
would do this every year.”
The cottage also allows all three generations of Cuttings to spend time together in Yea, and Mary relishes in being able to have her grandchildren – Bonnie, Scarlett, Roy, Fiorenzo, and Max – come to visit.
“Family come and go all the time. Since my retirement, I wanted to make more time to be with my grandchildren. And there’s five of them, but four are here in Victoria and one in Tasmania. We go and see them, or they come here.”
So although her roots are in Africa and much of her bloodline remains there, Mary has spent the majority of her life in Australia, tending to a new branch of her family tree. Yea has been a place for raising her children, nurturing community ties, and gathering joyfully as a third generation of her kin establishes in this country. For these reasons, Yea is a place that will be forever close to her heart.
“I love and cherish the memory of it all,” Mary says. For more information on the cottage or to book a stay, go to outlookcottage.com
ALEXANDRA HOTEL
The Peeping Sheep
By Emily Friedel
Anyone who has worked in a shearing shed or braved spinning their own wool knows the feeling of silky soft hands that comes from touching unprocessed sheep’s fleece. It’s the lanolin in the wool that makes skin feel so pampered. Lanolin is a waxy substance produced by sheep to help protect their skin and provide a barrier against moisture loss. Unsurprisingly, it can do the same for human skin.
And it was these properties of lanolin that led Deanna Artridge to start making lanolin-based products for her own sensitive skin. It began with homemade soaps and evolved into The Peeping Sheep, which now has a range of additional products starring lanolin, including a hand cream, lip
Mariana (left) and Deanna are the (well moisturised) faces behind The Peeping Sheep, which offers a range of lanolin-based skincare.
“In our hand cream, there’s only water, apricot oil, coconut oil, beeswax, lanolin, and tangerine essential oil. There’s no preservatives or anything else, and we use Australian medical grade lanolin. So we have quite a niche market, and our products are good for people who are allergic to a lot of chemicals, because there’s no chemicals. We even use the pure lanolin on our dog when he gets scratches under his paws because it helps them heal and it’s safe for him lick off.”
Another appealing feature of their products is the multipurpose nature.
“I’m so not one for having heaps of different products – I love all the different products of course, but I just don’t have time. The hand moisturiser is good for everything, we use it all over our bodies, on our faces and everything,” Mariana says.
Winter may be an especially good season for the
uninitiated to try some of The Peeping Sheep’s skincare. With cold winds chapping lips and indoor heating drying out faces, the occlusive properties of lanolin can help keep skin supple. For those braving backyard work in the winter, the gardener’s pack may be a blessing. It includes a pair of stylish handmade gardening gloves and a rich hand salve with eucalyptus essential oil that will protect hardworking hands from harsh conditions.
“My mum uses the gardener’s balm, and she’s going to be 79 this year. She just puts it on her hands after gardening, and she loves the smell,” Mariana says.
So whether it’s for older adults with hands that need a bit of extra care, kids with itchy eczema lesions, pets with sore paws, or anyone else needing to soothe their skin, the Peeping Sheep has simple products that can help. Deanna says that it’s all about skincare that does the job – nothing fancy.
Peeping Sheep has a range of products and packs, including a gardener’s gift set with cheerful handmade gloves. Below: A sheep-shaped lanolin-based Peeping Sheep soap.
“We hope people get results from using our products. We don’t want people to use our products and not see results. The products we create are not for everyone, I’ll be the first to admit that (there’s no pretty smells). So if the product is not working, healing or changing your skin for the better, then don’t use it. Our business model isn’t great when you
fully think about it; we want people to heal their skin. We want people to have healthy skin and so if our products do the job and heal the skin issue – whether it be eczema, nappy rash, cracked nipples, rosacea – then great!”
For more information on The Peeping Sheep or to place an order, you can go to their website https://www. thepeepingsheep.shop
The
The Will to win . . .
Will was awarded the winner of the JSPA Top Stars Series Perpetual Trophy which included $1000 prize money sponsored by Australian Racing Products. Will quickly spent this voucher upgrading his helmet.
Will is competing in the JSPA Top Stars Series again this season hoping to accrue enough points to defend his title, which will be near impossible due to missing several rounds this year competing in State and National Titles across Australia.
In December Luke, Will and middle brother Jack, who is an invaluable member of the pit crew, made a 17 hour trek to Kingaroy, Queensland for the Queensland State Title, only for it to be called off due to rain an hour out from arriving. The team left the car there for the National Title in January and flew home for Christmas. After another few tumultuous days of weather in early January, Will placed Australia 4 out of 78 competitors from all over Australia.
The return drive home saw Will attend a 2025 Excel Garage Star Search drive day at Mallala Motorsport Park in Adelaide before stopping at Goulburn, New South Wales to compete in the NSW State Title where he placed 5th. The end of January saw Will compete in the Victorian State Title in Wangaratta where in a cruel twist of events Will got a flat tyre with four laps to go whilst in fourth position.
The Fallon Family racing team then made the 18 hour trip in scorching 39 degree temperatures to Waikerie, South Australia to compete in the South Australian State Title over the Labour Day long weekend in March. In sweltering conditions, Will drove with composure and class to overtake the leader on the last lap and be crowned SA1.
To illustrate just how heart breaking the sport can be, the team drove back to Kingaroy, Queensland to compete in the rescheduled Queensland State Title on 12 April, only for the event to be once again cancelled due to rain after the first round of heats.
Following in his brother and fathers footsteps, youngest brother Charlie has just commenced his racing career,
racing the Datsun 1200 in the JSPA New Stars division. Charlie recently had his first podium finish, placing third locally at Alexandra. This was also the first podium finish for winner Jai Hallett who did a ‘shoey’ on the podium with his Gatorade. A picture tells a thousand words, and this podium photo demonstrates the sportsmanship and
comradery of our future speedway stars clearly on display.
Anyone interested in following Fallon Family Racing can receive updates and watch live streamed races on the teams Facebook Page. The interest and support from both locals and people from afar has been phenomenal and is greatly appreciated.
New Stars Podium presentation 23 March 2025 at Alexandra: First Jai Hallett, Second Cruz Abela, Third Charlie (Chaz) Fallon.
Eastern whipbird: an iconic songster of the forest Eastern whipbird: an iconic songster of the forest
eastern
in full song and showing
Photo: JJ
CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:Licensing
By Carol Hopkins
It’s hard to mistake the call of the eastern whipbird. Most commonly, it consists of a long, drawn out note quickly followed by a loud, explosive ‘whip crack’, to which the female often responds with a ‘chew, chew’ call. The
‘whip crack’ part of the call gives the bird its name. However, the female doesn’t respond at all times of the year. If this is the case, the male will end his song with the whip crack or, if he is feeling inventive, may add a final flourish of notes of his own. In addition
to this iconic call, eastern whipbirds also use harsh, scolding, repetitive clucks or squawks as contact or alarm calls. They have also been known to mimic other species of birds.
You are most likely to hear the eastern whipbird in the dense, damp forests
An
whipbird
mottled white belly.
Harrison,
A juvenile eastern whipbird . Photo: Charles J. Sharp, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: https:// commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:Licensing
Even so, whipbirds have been recorded returning to logged areas five years after logging and making their homes in the regenerating vegetation, particularly in
wetter gulleys.
So, next time you are out walking in the beautiful forests around Black Range, Rubicon, Marysville or Kinglake, keep
an ear out for this bird’s distinctive whip crack call and then see if you can catch a glimpse of it moving beneath or through the shrubbery.
Fully Licensed Bar and Cafe at W.I.L.D. STORE AND GALLERY
(located directly opposite the Alexandra Town Hall in Grant Street)
OPEN 7 DAYS
Contact: SUSIE CIPRIANI 0411 600 850
Escape to nature at Molesworth Caravan Park and Recreation Reserve!
Escape to nature at Molesworth Caravan Park and Recreation Reserve!
Experience the perfect getaway, nestled along the Goulburn River. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a family looking to relax, our park offers the ideal setting for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Why choose Molesworth caravan park?
• Prime location: direct access to the beautiful Goulburn River with our boat ramp, known for its serene waters and abundant variety of fish including trout, red fin and perch.
• Comfortable amenities: enjoy spacious camping sites, nice facilities and a friendly community atmosphere.
• Activities for all: fishing, explore nearby hiking trails, the rail trail or simply unwind in nature’s tranquillity.
Molesworth Caravan Park –where great catches and great memories await!
4352 Goulburn Valley Highway, Molesworth Victoria 3718
F: Molesworth recreation reserve and caravan park I: Molesworth_recreation_reserve
Powered & unpowered grass sites
Cabin & motel accomodation
Direct river access
Undercover electric barbecues
Children’s playground
Swimming pool
Well behaved pets allowed bookings@thorntoncp.com.au T. 03 5773 2305 1288 Goulburn Valley Highway, Thornton Vic www.thorntonriverbendholidaypark.com.au
Powered & unpowered grass sites
Cabin & motel accomodation
Well behaved pets allowed goulburn river
Direct river access
Undercover electric barbecues
Children’s playground
Swimming pool
NESTLED ALONG THE PICTURESQUE EILDON PONDAGE WATERWAY
Yea Riverside Caravan Park offers great accommodation located on the banks of the picturesque Yea River. With a choice of brand new two-bedroom villas or studio units that come equipped with air conditioning and kitchen facilities or powered and unpowered caravan sites, you’ll have a pleasant holiday at a price that will fit your budget.
/ Club bookings welcome
Fully Equipped Camp Kitchen | Wood Fired Pizza Oven | Free Gas BBQ’s Kid’s Playground | Clean, Modern Amenities | Coin Operated Laundry Free Wi-Fi | Pet Friendly (sites only) | Guest Pool www.eildonpondage.com Toll free: 1800 651 691 • Self-contained cabins • Powered and unpowered sites • Swimming pool • Jumping cushion and playground • Fish from the park grounds
See all our facilities and accommodation options on our website
Physical training for brain training
By Emily Friedel
The idea of ‘brain training’ with puzzles and dedicated apps has become popular. The importance of keeping a sharp mind is clear to most people, especially with the changes in thinking and mental skills that can accompany aging. And while these methods of brain training may be useful, new research suggests that the benefits of moving your body should not be underestimated.
This research found that physical exercise of any type is good for your mental faculties – whether it’s walking, Tai Chi, dance, resistance exercise, or even video games that require movement (‘exergames’). More specifically, exercise improves overall thinking abilities (general cognition), memory, and higher-level thinking like problem solving and planning (executive functions).
These findings, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, are especially powerful because they effectively bring
together all the results from over 2,700 individual studies investigating how exercise might relate to thinking and memory.
Overall, general cognition saw the biggest gains with exercise, with memory and executive functioning showing smaller but still meaningful improvements. The benefits of exercise were seen across all ages, reinforcing that you’re never too old for exercise to do you some good. However, children and adolescents had greater memory and executive function improvements than adults or older adults. All the more reason to encourage kids to be active. The level of improvement in thinking or memory also varied with different groups of people. For example, those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) showed the greatest enhancements in executive function with physical activity compared to other groups (such as people from the general population, people with depression, and people with dementia).
Interestingly, of all the different exercise modes, exergames were the most effective for improving general cognition and memory. This may be something to consider if you or your child are into gaming – making it a less sedentary hobby could have payoffs for mental sharpness.
Perhaps the best news is that it doesn’t take a huge amount of exercise, nor does it have to be high intensity, for a brain boost. Many people included in the studies reviewed by this research experience improvements after a few months. The biggest benefits were seen with a very manageable 30 mins of exercise most days a week – that’s a daily dog walk or easy yoga session with room for a day or two of rest.
In a nutshell, this new research provides compelling evidence that exercise is a simple and accessible way for anyone to support their abilities to think, remember, plan, problem solve and more. As the saying goes, what’s good for the heart, is good for the brain.
Shelters: beside the Goulburn River between Tallarook and Goulburn Valley Highway, Goulburn River near Kerrisdale, Cheviot Tunnel, Eglington Cutting, Merton Gap, Woodfield Station and Olivers Road Mansfield.
BBQs available at Tallarook, Yea, Alexandra, Bonnie Doon and Mansfield.
Public toilets as indicated on map and also located at Tallarook, Yea, Yarck, Alexandra, Bonnie Doon and Mansfield.
ABOUT US Navy Blue Planning provides urban and regional planning services. With offices in Alexandra and Melbourne, we are currently assisting clients in Murrindindi Shire and more broadly across Victoria with residential, commercial, and industrial planning approvals.
CONTACT US
Tom Harrington – Director T: 0419
E: admin@navyblueplanning.com.au
• Urban & Regional Planning
• Planning permits, approvals, and reports
• Statutory & Strategic Planning
• Subdivision & Masterplanning
• Rezoning
• Planning investigations & studies
• Due diligence
• Advocacy & Representation
Mudbash 2025
By Lacey Ewenson
Mudbash is an annual motorsport event run by the Rover Scout section of Scouts Australia. Held at Mafeking Rover Park in Caveat on the King’s Birthday weekend in June, it is the largest Rover Scout event in Australia with over 1,500 participants and visitors annually. Mudbash puts the best aspects of Rover Scouting together.
Among the weekend’s activities are
adventurous expeditions, competitive on-site activities, scouting camp craft, exciting nightlife entertainment, and of course motorsport!
Mudbash first started in 1972 at Big River Campsite, Marysville, with five Rover crews and their $50 modified vehicles. To avoid the environmental impact that the buggies had on the state forest, Rover Scouts Victoria made the decision to look for land to continue to run Mudbash and future Scouting
events. In 1992, a 130-hectare property was purchased in Caveat, about 30 minutes out of Yea, which soon became Mafeking Rover Park.
To this day, the park is owned and operated by the Victorian Branch Rover Council alongside the Mafeking Park management group and hosts a range of camps and motorsport competitions year-round.
The park offers a diverse landscape of open land, scrub and bush, providing
Olive perchlet are on the road back from extinction!
By Brian Mottram
The currently declared extinct olive perchlet is making a comeback! Declared extinct in Victoria in 1968, there had been no reintroduction of olive perchlet until recent years. This fish is a small 4-6cm long wetland specialist, with pearlescent scales and a partially see-through body, they are also known as the “glass fish”. They play a crucial role in the aquatic ecosystem, helping to keep aquatic bugs in check whilst also themselves being prey to many large fish species and water birds.
How do you save something that’s already extinct you might ask?
A plan was formed with partner fish and water-related agencies to recover multiple small bodied species across Victoria, which led to the recent success we have seen in bringing the olive perchlet back to Victorian waters.
A collaboration was formed between multiple entities including private and government groups and from there the work began on the recovery of the species. Genetically correct broodstock were sourced through NSW Department of Primary Industries by the VFA (Victorian Fisheries Authority), the fish were then transported across the border and small
Above: Sam Fawke with olive perchlet being released into a private dam in Heathcote. Below: an olive perchlet also known as the glass fish because of its partially see-through body.
Release of 50 olive perchlet into a surrogacy site at the Bendigo botanical gardens.
fish numbers the species is on a comeback! There is still a lot of work to be done before they can be reclassified, and it will take many years to declare some of these populations as true populations, but for now it’s all hands on deck to protect and support Victoria’s small-bodied endangered native fish. If you would like to keep up to date with what’s going on in the conservation hatchery jump online and follow Victorian Fisheries Authority on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn where we upload regular updates.
Links for further information: Conservation Hatchery - VFA https://vfa.vic.gov.au/education/conservation-hatchery
10inTen – recovering 10 threatened species in ten years https://www.ari.vic.gov.au/research/threatened-plants-and-animals/ animals/a-conservation-hatchery
10inTen - Recovering Victoria’s Most Threatened Aquatic SpeciesYouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKI_tH3k4wY
• All your beekeeping needs – bees, beehives, suits, tools, protective gear, and books
• Local honey and bee-themed gifts
• Display of historical beekeeping equipment, books and photographs
Give Charlie a buzz on 0413 627 194
• Swarm & wild hive removals 34b High Street YEA dindibees@gmail.com www.dindibeesupplies.com.au
Natural bush setting on Acheron River – Majestic Cathedral Range as your back drop Cabins, Safari Tents, Bell Tents, En-Suite sites, Powered & Unpowered Sites
Jumping pillow, playground, mini golf, tennis courts, open fires and much more Fishing, hiking, exploring or just sit back and relax
Lake Eildon’s very own Trout Trolling Competition returns this August with many a great prizes up for grabs.
The event is run from Café 501 at Jerusalem Creek, where competitors sign in, pick up their showbag full of goodies, and listen to the safety brief prior to setting off to any part of the main body of the lake to try their luck in landing some trophy-sized trout.
Fish are measured on the competitor’s official brag mat and then sent to the competition committee for addition to the overall leader board.
There will be a host of other activities to keep the competitors entertained over the 3-day event.
If you are looking for a weekend of entertainment and fishing fun visit jerusalemcreek.com.au events and sign up or telephone 03 5774 2585 and ask for Billy.
Discover a hidden gem with this walking track created by Goulburn Valley Water in 2024. It is located just outside of Seymour in Victoria’s north-central region. Gawarn Baring (meaning Echidna Track in Taungurung language) takes you on a 5km scenic walk along the Falls Creek footprint on the edge of the Tallarook State Forest, before reaching the historic Trawool Reservoir. It’s a natural earthen track that is designed to showcase the views of the Falls Creek footprint, as well as the outlook over the stunning Trawool Valley. On clear days, you’ll have views right across a large section of the nearby Great Dividing Range. The track offers spectacular views through the Trawool Valley and is located right next to the Great Victorian Rail Trail.
The track begins at the edge of the Goulburn Valley Highway near Falls Creek Road, marked by the Gawarn Baring gateway (near the Trawool Resort). It features two old water pumps from the Seymour district that have been repurposed into a new gate structure.
It will take you through mixed eucalypt forest and granite outcrops and you might also spot some local wildlife if you’re lucky – including the track’s namesake.
At the top of the track, you’ll find the picturesque Trawool Reservoir, which was built in 1895. It’s been stocked with native fish for recreational fishing and the reservoir has two fishing platforms near the existing camping area.
This picturesque reservoir nestled on the Falls Creek in the hills of the Tallarook State Forest was the first major water storage in the Seymour District for almost 50 years in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It also played a key role in supporting the significant Victorian Railways steam train operations in the region. In Taungurung language Traawool – the original spelling used in the early 1900s – means ‘wild water’.
Gawarn Baring has been developed in partnership between Goulburn Valley Water, Taungurung Land and Waters Council, Biik Cultural Land Management and the Victorian Government.
Key information
Walking track grade: Medium (Grade 3, Grade 4 in some sections)
Distance: 5km return
Elevation change: 300m
Time: 2.5 to 3 hours return, approx.
Parking is available near the Trawool Resort, and the Gawarn Baring walking track is a 5 minute walk along the nearby Great Victorian Rail Trail before you cross the road to the entrance.
Please help protect the walk and reservoir areas and take any rubbish with you.
Gawarn Baring may close during periods of extreme weather or dangerous conditions. Check the Fire Danger Rating and weather conditions before you leave and consider your plans on hot, windy days. Falls Creek can also be at risk of flash flooding during heavy rainfall or storm events.
Be safe and be prepared when walking Gawarn Baring
• Plan your walk and let someone know where you are and when you expect to return.
• Mobile phone reception may be limited at some areas of the track.
• Some sections of the walking track may be slippery where
there are rocky surfaces.
• Follow the trail markers and stay on the designated track at all times to protect the native environment – some nearby areas are also private property.
• Wear sturdy footwear and protective clothing, and make sure you take a hat and sunscreen in summer.
• Carry plenty of water, especially in warmer weather.
• Consider taking a small first aid kit.
• Be aware snakes may be active in the area.
For more information go to https://www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/gawarnbaring
Caring for the community
Darlingford is a lovely residential aged care facility that accommodates residents with a variety of care needs including permanent, respite, and dementia care. Darlingford provides a secure home environment, surrounded by more than 3acres of beautiful gardens and land, which is also enjoyed by native birds and kangaroos. Our qualified and passionate staff understand, respect and support the needs of residents and their families.
All inclusive services:
• Registered nurse on site 24 hours a day
• State government nurse/patient ratio in place
• Meals are prepared and cooked fresh on-site
• Cappuccino machine available for residents and visitors
• Personal clothing is laundered on-site
• All rooms have ensuite bathrooms
• Group and individual activities – including vegetable garden
• On-site entertainment, external outings and cultural celebrations
• Allied health consultants available: Physiotherapist, Geriatrician, Dietician, speech therapist, hearing and dental services, podiatrist, occupational therapist, social worker.
• 7 double rooms ideal for couples, 37 single rooms
• Aged Care Assessment is required
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturdays 9am-12pm
EILDON
18A Main Street T: 03 5774 2626 E: eildon@twcmgroup.com
We receive our delivery daily from Melbourne, anything we don’t stock we can order for next day delivery. If you don’t see it in-store, just ask one of our friendly staff!
Services include: Blood Pressure Checks, Webster Packs, Medication Review, Home Delivery, Diabetes Health Checks, Unwanted Medicine Disposal
Pippos
• Mindset Mentor
• Spiritual Adviser
NDIS Self Managed Plan accepted
P: 0409 173 105
W: www.amandapippos.com.au
E: amanda@amandapippos.com.au
T: https://t.me/amandapipposhypnotherapy
F: https://www.facebook.com/amandapippos.healer/
ALEXANDRA PHYSIOTHERAPY
Libby Gobbart PHYSIOTHERAPIST
B.App.Sc. (Physiotherapy)
APAM, Cred MDT 54A Downey St
Alexandra
Ph 03 5772 2649
alexphysio@aapt.net.au
Michael Mclear DENTAL PROSTHETIST
11a Main Street, Eildon 0407 549 732
Denture Service
Full and Partial Dentures and Repairs
Monday and Tuesday Member ADPA (VIC)
Take quality and regular time out
In this fast-paced modern world where technology advancements are all consuming and life’s commitments can be all encompassing, it can be easy to lose touch with ourselves. We can become so microfocused on our lives with all the ‘doing’, that we can forget about just ‘being’. With all the distractions of our dayto-day life, we can lose sight of the larger picture – that thing that once inspired us or stirred our soul with a sense of purpose. As everything is moving so fast these days, wouldn’t it be great to get off the merry-go-round and re-connect with what truly matters?
Murrindindi-based health practitioner and business owner Amanda Pippos understands how important it is for mental health and personal well-being to take quality and regular time out.
“It is imperative for our spiritual development that we allow space to explore the deeper aspects of ourselves and take constructive steps to heal
and transform subconscious wounds that may be holding us back,” she says.
Amanda has expanded her practice by creating a variety of unique and meaningful services to help (predominantly) women, tap out of their usual reality and tap into their inner being. With over 25 years in private practice as a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and naturopath – including 15 years facilitating Red Tent Women’s Circles, workshops and ceremonies – Amanda understands that women in our community have a desire and a need to explore deeper connections, not only within themselves and their own psyche, but also with the larger planetary cycles such as the seasons, the cycles of the moon, the sun and the planets. Getting back to the basics of what is real in this world has a tremendous impact on one’s mental health.
To help women on their healing journey Amanda provides a New Moon monthly women’s circle,
The Red Tent Moonlodge. It includes a sharing circle, oracle cards, astrology and cosmic forecast, meditation, artwork and a light supper. The New Moon is the perfect time to set intentions for the cycle ahead.
All Moonlodges are held in a 24-foot tipi in Taggerty with sweeping views across open plains.
“I absolutely adore facilitating Red Tent Moonlodge for women! There is something so sacred
about sitting on the earth, around a fire, in a circle, and getting real with women,” Amanda says.
Amanda was inspired to build a tipi space after her travels to Sedona, Arizona, in 2009 where she participated in a world gathering of indigenous elders called “The Return of the Ancestors”. This spoke of the ancient prophecies of the Hopi and the Maya for the times to come, emphasising the importance of connection
Above: Amanda Pippos understands the importance of taking quailty time out. Top: the 24-foot tipi in Taggerty where all the magic happens.
Amanda also facilitates Goddess retreats and courses for women which take the participant on an inner journey of exploring archetypes associated with the feminine psyche. Immerse yourself into an empowering and transformative experience by discovering your connection with ancient Goddesses and gift yourself an Inner Goddess Makeover! From ancient Babylon to Sumeria and Greece, you will be taken on a journey to awaken the Goddess within.
Rites of Passage Ceremonies is another service offered by Amanda for women who want to celebrate an important milestone in
their life in a spiritual and meaningful way. Whether it’s your daughter’s first period, a bridal shower, hen’s night, special birthday or a girl’s night in – why not have a Goddess Gathering and make your special occasion count. Amanda can design your special event and create and facilitate a sacred circle just for you and your girlfriends. These fun and soul nourishing alternatives to modern celebrations create memories that will stay with you forever.
To contact Amanda for more information, please email amanda@amandapippos.com. au or call 0409 173 105. Visit her website to discover more at amandapippos.com.au
Truck drivers’ memorial 7 June
The Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial (VTDM) Committee is pleased to announce that the annual memorial service for 2025 is confirmed for Saturday 7 June. The service will be held at Rotary Park, 36 Grant Street, Alexandra, beginning at 2pm. This year 12 individuals will be homoured by adding their names to the memorial wall.
Following the memorial service, attendees will be invited to join for afternoon tea and refreshments.
The Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial, situated in Alexandra, stands as a poignant site for reflection and tribute.
It serves as a solemn reminder for the families and friends of Victorians who lost their lives while working on the road or had a significant connection to the transport industry. The Memorial operates as a non-political, inclusive, and not-for-profit entity, welcoming all who seek to pay their respects—a lasting homage to the truck drivers it commemorates.
Craig Lloyd, President of the Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial Inc., shared his sentiments regarding the upcoming service:
“The Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial Committee will be holding our Annual
Memorial Service again on the King’s Birthday weekend. Our memorial service recognises those who have served us through their role as truck drivers, but have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We remember those people, and bring together families, friends and colleagues to mark their sacrifice as we place a memorial plaque in their name on our Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial wall”.
For further details regarding the memorial service, reach out to Teagan Wallace 0401 904 044 Email: teaganwallace@hotmail. com or visit the Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial website www.vtdm.asn.au or Facebook page.
Alexandra: 0491 714 893
Mansfield: 0491 641 474
WE OFFER BULKBILLED EYE EXAMINATIONS
Alexandra Optical 106 Grant St Alexandra Monday & Wednesday: 9am-5pm or by appointment
Mansfield Optical 30c High St Mansfield Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9am-5pm or by appointment
Ceremony on the banks of the Rubicon River for a Red Tent Sister who passed away. Women are lined up ready to enter the ceremonial space as Amanda smudges their energy with Sage.
When Anthea Forbes decided to move to Alexandra five years ago, she was looking for a place where she could really be a part of the community. In particular, she wanted a safe, accepting and inclusive environment for her adult son, Adam, who has Down’s Sydrome and autism. Now, after only a relatively short time, she knows she made the right decision. “I love this community,” she says.
And Anthea hasn’t wasted any time getting involved in community life. As an artist, she displays her paintings and greeting cards at outlets throughout the Murrindindi Shire, teaches an art class at
Above: Anthea Forbes loves living and creating in the local community.
Right: Portrait of Anthea’s son, Adam, in pastels.
staggering 1500 greeting cards, with native birds and animals being favourite subjects. She also accepts commissions for artwork.
Given Anthea’s considerable responsibilities as a mother of an intellectually disabled man, it’s amazing that she finds time to devote to art, but she believes it is important for carers to make time for themselves. With this in mind, Anthea established a Carer’s Group in Alexandra, to give those looking after others an opportunity to take “time out” and be supported by an understanding network.
As Anthea explains, “I understand that being a carer can be very isolating, very lonely, very painful and very sad, and my passion is getting people out of their homes and away from that situation, even if it’s only for an hour or two a month, to give them something special to look forward to. I also like to lead them gently to other things that can help them. There are a lot of support services that people don’t know about.”
The Alexandra Carers Group meets on the last Friday of each month between 10am and 11.30am at the Grant Street Grocer, where a morning tea is provided free of charge (sponsored by VMCH) and guest speakers are invited to come along and talk about pertinent issues. As well as these regular meetings the group enjoys lunches, visits to interesting places or exhibitions and multi-day retreats. All events are free of charge for carers and this includes transport, meals, entry fees and accommodation.
Before Anthea arrived in Alexandra and started the Carers Group, she says there hadn’t been a single dollar available in the town to support carers. In fact, apart from Gippsland, no regional areas in Victoria were receiving funding. Through her lobbying, Anthea was instrumental in changing this situation. Because of her own experience as a carer, and her previous involvement with carers’ groups, Anthea is a wealth of information on the support services that are available for
Above: Brightly coloured rainbow parrots on one of Anthea’s greeting cards. Below: Morning dew pastels.
Carers Group meets on the last Friday of each month between 10am and 11.30am at the Grant Street Grocer. Right: Parrot soft pastels.
carers and those who are receiving their care. Because of this, she is well placed to give people tips on negotiating the often complex and bewildering processes involved in accessing help. However, she says it’s often difficult for carers to accept that they are deserving of help because they feel they are simply doing what is expected of them as parents, spouses or children. Nevertheless, Anthea is demonstrating in her own life that it is possible, and important, to look after
your own needs as well as those of others.
If you are a carer and would like to know more about the Carers Group, you can give Anthea a call on 0418 402 455 or send an email to anthea. gary.forbes@bigpond.com. To view Anthea’s paintings or greeting cards visit the Alexandra or Eildon Visitor Information Centres. Her greeting cards are also sold in a number of venues through the Shire.
Visitor Information Centre Arts Space & Exhibition Space Made in Marysville & Region (locally made products & produce)
MiRa Marysville offers local knowledge, an intriguing gallery, artisan wares, creative workshops & fabulous performances.
Nestled in Marysville’s stunning natural environment and open 7 days a week, there’s always something for everyone.
Stay in the loop – become a member of MiRa and stay up-to-date with events, exhibitions and the latest offerings in store Open 10am-4pm daily
11 Murchison Street, Marysville
T: 03 5963 4567
W: www.miramarysville.com.au
E: info@miramarysville.com.au
Follow us as we grow
Rustic
CSimplicity
Update by Cindy Ferguson
oined The Old Garage, Rustic Simplicity’s new space in the old Ford car dealership new car showroom at 21 Perkins Street is a little off the beaten track, but only a short (250m) stroll, ride or drive from Grant Street. Perkins Steet runs between the shire hall and the library, and the showroom is situated past the gardens directly opposite Villeneuve Street.
Keep following us on our socials for real time updates and extended opening hours on long weekends and during holiday periods. Regular days and times in winter are Saturdays from 11am-ish to 3pm-ish as we excitedly continue working on our shop extension and expansion.
Right: Winter woollies at Rustic Simplicity
ØSales of New Mercury/Mercruiser Engines
ØSales of Second Hand Engines and Boats
ØShowroom full of everything your boat needs for your day on the water. Spare Parts, Electrical Accessories, Mooring Ropes, Cleaning Products and much more
ØWater sports accessories & PFD’s
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Elders, Alexandra 0419 558 032
Murrindindi Prestige Property
0404 454 749
Nutrien Harcourts, Yea 5797 2799
O’Brien Real Estate 5772 1774
RURAL PRODUCE / EQUIPMENT
Elders, Yea 5797 4100
Embling Rural, Alexandra 5772 3110
Nutrien Ag Alexandra 5772 2444 Yea 5797 2799
Yea Machinery 9730 1988
SKI HIRE
Cross Country Ski Hire
Marysville 5963 3322
Mar ysville Ski Centre
Marysville 5963 3455
SURVEYORS
Linear Land Surveying 0422 946 375 SERVICE STATIONS / FUEL SUPPLIES
Jerusalem Creek Marina & Hoilday Park
On-water fuel barge
Eildon 5774 2585
Simpsons Fuel Alexandra 5772 1205
Simpsons Fuel Eildon 5774 2220
STOCK AND STATION AGENTS
Elders Alexandra 5772 1052 Yea5797 2037
Embling Rural, Alexandra 5772 3110
TRACTOR SALES
Yea Machinery 9730 1988
TREE SERVICES
JT’s Trees 0413 671 066
TROUT FARMS
Buxton Trout Farm 5774 7370
T V SERVICES
Chris’s TV 0405 554 915
UPHOLSTERY
T&J Trimming 0408 789 653
VENUE FOR HIRE
Eildon Boat Club
administration@eildonboatclub.com.au
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES
Alexandra 5772 1100 / 1800 652 298
Eildon 5774 2805
Mar ysville 5963 4567
Yea 5797 2663
VETERINARIAN
Mountain Ranges Vet Clinic
Kinglake 5786 1777
WELDING SERVICES
Buffalo Built 0429 199 472
WINES/BREWS
Bonfire Station Farmstay & Microbrewery 0423 457 072
