Peninsula Essence August 2019

AUGUST 2019

FREE

PENINSULA Living & visiting on the Mornington Peninsula

The Gentle Giants • Another Dram Please • Relax And Breathe • Bev Hugs A Team Of Problem Solvers • Legacy Of Caring • Woolfs Freedom Of The Mind • Going Dotty • Rebirth Music In The Family • Spain On Main • Like Ducks Take To Water • A Smart Move • Celebrity Chef Miguel Maestre Forget Paris • Fragments Of The Past • It's All About Lifestyle • Grand Hotel Mornington

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contents 36

Leading 10. The Gentle Giants

Come on a journey with Marlon Quinn to witness whales in Peninsula waters.

Father's Day Gift Ideas

16. Another Dram Please

Essence talks to Alex Bruce about his family history of making Scotch whiskey.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

20. Relax & Breathe

Yoga is a lot simplier than people realise, says Robin Anderson from Silverleaf yoga.

24. Bev Hugs

She's 73 years old and continues to volunteer as a marshal for Rosebud park run.

26. A Team Of Problem Solvers

Bill Hallet is just one of the 'can-do' team at Mornington Solve Disability Solutions.

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In The Specialist's Hands

30. Legacy Of Caring

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Helping the families of our military servicemen, the widows, and children left behind.

Must Try Cocktails

Arts 38. Woolfs Freedom Of The Mind

Reading the book for the first time had a profound impact on Peta Hanrahan's life.

42. Going Dotty

Stippling has seen a new lease on life with local artist, Donna Taylor.

44. Rebirth

Woodworker Carl Smith is creating a new life in his furniture pieces.

48. Music In The Family

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Bridget Allan is a young singer/songwriter with a massive future.

The Peninsula 12 Page Discovery Guide

Mornington Peninsula

Eat & Drink 62. Spain On Main

Casa De Playa serving you authentic Spanish cuisine in the heart of Mornington.

Proudly published by

66. Like Ducks Take To Water

Essence talks to Line Thye of TRE AND Baxter Valley Estate.

70. A Smart Move

Two brothers bringing boutique beer to Somerville & the Mornington Peninsula.

Writers: Melissa Walsh, Keith Platt Andrea Louise Thomas, Peter McCullough Photography: Yanni, Gary Sissons, Keith Platt Creative: Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne Publisher: Cameron McCullough Advertising:

All material is copyright, and may not be reproduced without the express permission of Mornington Peninsula News Group, or the original copyright holder in the case of contributions. Copyright of contributed material rests with the contributor.

Disclaimer: The authors and publisher do not assume any liability to any party for any loss, damage or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident or any other cause.

This publication is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. The reader should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

Sometimes you need inside knowledge to find the extraordinary.

Brooke Hughes, 0409 219 282 or Peninsula Essence IAM Mornington Peninsula shares with you the stories of ten of is produced monthly. brooke@mpnews.com.au 30,000 copies (mix of home delivery and our local heroes. dropped Discover some of the many talented creators andat an extensive network of Marg Harrison, 0414 773 153 or makers,bulk innovators of our region. They are passionate about what they dopeninsula). outlets across the marg@mpnews.com.au and want to share it with you.

Phone: (03) 5974 9000 Registered address: 2/1 Tyabb Road, Mornington 3931 www.peninsulaessence.com.au

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Peninsula Essence goes head to head with Miguel Maestre.

76. Forget Paris

CafĂŠ Gourmand, delicious French food made in the traditional style.

Focus On Mornington 81. Facts & Coffee Safari 82. What To Do 83. Article: Fragments Of The Past

Real Estate 92. It's All About Lifestyle

History 96. Grand Hotel Mornington (Part 1)

facebook/peninsulaessence instagram@peninsulaessence PEFC Certified This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources. www.pefc.org

73. Interview With Celebrity Chef Miguel Maestre

Every Month Cover Image by Yanni

A small boat greets the new day and awaits the change of tide at Stony Point Foreshore on Western Port Bay. August 2019

7. Peninsula Events 8. Peninsula Styles 34. Social Photos 64. Recipe 72. Must Try Dishes 79. Crossword

INTRODUCING THE NEW RANGE ROVER EVOQUE.

New Range Rover Evoque is as at home on the city streets as it is on the mountainous roads.

Equipped with advanced technology, the Evoque allows you to navigate the cities obstacles with thoughtful precision. Just watch out for the admiring glances, they’re unavoidable.

Contact Brighton Land Rover to book your test drive today.

Brighton Land Rover 229 Nepean Highway Gardenvale 03 9595 9999 brightonlandrover.com.au Moving to 363 Nepean Highway Brighton East later this year.

WINTER IS HERE...

Improve the look, comfort and energy efficiency of your home For a NO OBLIGATION free quote call 5909-8040 or Kim on 041 222 1767

Non Flammable - BAL29 All Products Australian Made in our factory All Products Internally Glazed as Standard Enhanced Security

REHAU is a global leader in the UPVC window technology market. They supply High Weather Formula Window/Door frames – specifically designed for Australian conditions.

We are a 5 star accredited REHAU manufacturer and installer based on the Mornington Peninsula.

Maintenance Free (No Painting ever) Non Corrosive Cyclone Rated/Weatherproof Eliminate Draughts Energy Efficiency Noise Reduction Sustainability Fully Welded Frames Affordable Dust Proofing 10 Year Unconditional GUarantee locallY owned & operated

Factory showroom open to the public: Factory 1, 7 Lyall St, Hastings www.livingdesigndoubleglazing.com.au Cool Gray 11 PMS 368

Peninsula events TRUFFLE HUNT & TASTING

August

2019 PITMASTER MASTERCLASS THE BIRD

TOP DOG FILM FESTIVAL

August 3 and 4 Experience the thrill of a truffle hunt. Jenny McAuley and her super sniffer truffle dog Thomas will lead you through the oak and hazelnut trees of this private Red Hill Truffiere. You will have the opportunity to taste, smell, handle, photograph and even purchase freshly harvested truffle.

Jenny will discuss growing, harvesting and cooking with truffle before you enjoy a light lunch of truffle produce and dishes. www.mpexperience.com.au

August 11 Celebrate the canine connection through this carefully curated collection of heartwarming stories about dogs and their people at the 2019 Top Dog Film Festival screening in Rosebud.

The 2019 Top Dog Film Festival presents a two hour cinematic celebration honouring the bond between dogs and their people.

Peninsula Cinemas, Rosebud Parade, Rosebud. www.australias. guide/vic/event/top-dog-filmfestival-rosebud

ROOM OF ONE'S OWN

August 21 This play is a chance to celebrate Virginia Woolf, one of the greatest writers of the 20th Century, and her classic work, "A Room of One's Own". Based on a series of lectures

by Woolf in 1928 on the subject of women and fiction, this adaptation restructures the narrative to feature four performers who represent various aspects of Woolf's mind in conversation with herself and the audience. Frankston Arts Centre, 27-37 Davey Street, Frankston.

Ph 9784 1051 www.artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au

August 15 Learn the art of low and slow cooking with Pitmaster Martin Goffin of Red Gum BBQ. The class will be hands and taste buds on - with participants trimming and prepping their own cuts and of course, BBQ feasting of all these and other goods and craft beer tastings from a collection of Victoria's finest craft brews.

Red Gum BBQ, 87 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill www.redgumbbq.com.au

WINTER SALON: WARM HUES + WINTER LIGHTS

SOAP MAKING WORKSHOP

August 1- 31 Rich palettes and soft hues feature in a wide ranging exhibition of Aboriginal and select contemporary Australian art from eight regions.

Including Kimberley ochres by Patrick Mung Mung and Mabel Juli; lush colour works from the APY Lands; night sky paintings by Vicki Cullinan, and more.

Everywhen Artspace 39 Cook Street, Flinders.

Ph 5989 0496 www.mccullochandmcculloch.com.au

August 31 Learn how to make traditional olive oil and goats milk soap.

Workshops are run by Jude Steele, founder of Olieve & Olie.

Workshops run on a Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. You will learn everything you need to know to make your own soap at home, including where to source your equipment and ingredients and of course notes / recipes to take home. Olieve and Olie 7/16 Henry-Wilson Drive, Rosebud Ph 5982 0992 www.olieveandolie.com.au

d _j .s

• B.B.Q on the Deck (and there's beer!)

• Face Painting Fun (for you... and Dad) • Classic Car Show (at the Summit)

A R T H U R S S E AT

• Spot Prizes for Dad (and you) on the day!

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

BOOK ONLINE August 2019

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OZ DESIGN FURNITURE - MORNINGTON

TEMPO GROUP Imagine life in this stylish kitchen, built by the Tempo Group for more stories to come.

28 Diane St, Mornington.

Ph: 5976 3629 www.thetempogroup.com.au

Create what your heart desires with OZ Design Furniture Mornington. New season trends provide you with infinite options for your home needs this autumn/winter.

OZ Design Furniture Mornington, Showroom D4, Peninsula Home, 1128 – 1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington.

Ph: 8560 1137 www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

Peninsula

Styles

MAIN STREET COLLECTIVE No more bad hair days with these unisex Brixton fedoras. Available in four different colour ways, you can pick one up from the Main Street Collective 40 Main St, Mornington.

Ph: 5976 7709 www.mainstcollective.com.au

PRODUCTS FROM THE PENINSULA WE'RE SURE YOU WILL LOVE

BRIGHTON LAND ROVER The New Range Rover Evoque has arrived at Brighton Land Rover. Outstanding proportion deliver a distinctive appearance.

All wheel drive ensures a confident drive on or off-road and on slippery surfaces such as grass, torque can be balanced between the front and rear wheels to maximise traction. Test drive the New Range Rover Evoque at Brighton Land Rover 229 Nepean Highway, Gardenvale (please note we are moving to 363 Nepean Hwy, Brighton East later in the year) Phone: 03 9595 9999 www.brightonlandrover.com.au

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ALBERT & DAPHNE We are loving the brand new Pony Rider cushion range now available at Albert & Daphne 103 Main Street Mornington.

Ph:5973 4411

PENINSULA’S PREMIER CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL Peninsula Grammar is proudly co-educational from Kindergarten to Year 12 with leading-edge programs and targeted teaching to meet individual needs.

We support our students in their pursuit of excellence.

SATURDAY OPEN DAY 7 SEPTEMBER, 10.00 AM - 12.00 PM Please join us to hear more from our Principal and to explore how our school can shape the learning journey of your child. Please register your attendance via our website.

www.peninsulagrammar.vic.edu.au

To book a tailored school tour for your family anytime, or for information on our programs, please call 9788 7702 or email enrolments@pgs.vic.edu.au.

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THE GENTLE Giants

By Melissa Walsh

T

hey’re huge, mysterious and graceful. Known as the gentle giants of the ocean, the peninsula is lucky enough to see a migration of whales during winter as they make their way from Antarctica to the warmer Australian waters to give birth to their calves. Local man, Marlon Quinn, with his Watermaarq Ocean Adventures, has the wonderful job of taking regular charters out whale watching from June until August.

“I have been doing the whale charters since winter last year when I realised there was no regular whale watching boats down here,” said Marlon, a former IT project manager, who found his new calling as a freediving instructor five years ago. “I wanted to share with locals and visitors the finest marine experiences and one of those is the migration of whales over the cold months.”

Marlon says that winter is a great time to head down to the peninsula, and Sorrento is the perfect place to start a whale watching adventure.

visit our local waters. We are very mindful that we are the visitors to their environment and will only get within a certain allowed distance. Often the whales will be curious and come closer to see us as well.”

The boat, which takes 12 people, leaves from the shores of Sorrento and guests have mentioned at the end of the tour that the journey was just as magnificent as the whale sightings.

“One of the things I love is to give people an amazing experience. We go out through The Heads, through the area known as The Rip, to the open water which can be slightly treacherous depending on the conditions. It is always safe but definitely can be quite thrilling with the boat low in the water and sometimes encountering large waves, as we venture deep into Point Nepean Bay,” said Marlon. “We use our open rigid inflatable boat Apollo, and go off on an adventure searching along the spectacular Mornington Peninsula coastline for the opportunity to see migrating whales as they journey through our beautiful region. On the way we get to see sights that most people wouldn’t get to see from land, with incredible sandy cliffs and pristine beaches along the coast. There is a plethora of incredible wildlife like the Australian fur seals at their purpose built haul-out platform, Seal Rock. The bay is home to a variety of wildlife including seals, dolphins and abundant seabirds well known to exceed seventy different species.”

On the way we get to see sights that most people wouldn’t get to see from land, with incredible sandy cliffs and pristine beaches along the coast

“We run a two-and-a half hour winter whale watching and wildlife eco boat tour, and each year we’ve been treated to increasing sightings of Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales and Orca or killer whales,” said Marlon. “It’s a very special experience because historically whaling and sealing were one of the first industries in the region. Now protected, we have the opportunity to search for these grand marine animals as they safely

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Humpback Whale Photo: Thomas Kelley August 2019

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While winter is cold, it is the only chance to experience something as unique as this in the southern peninsula waters.

We don’t want to be out there impacting in a negative way. They are an endangered species that used to be hunted so protection and conservation is an important thing

“It is not only an incredible experience that may be a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do, it allows people to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. It promotes their conservation and how important it is to keep these species around for generations to come,” he said of the whale species that are mostly gentle towards each other. “They swim in family units with the mothers protecting their young and gently coaxing them along their migratory journey.

They are curious and inquisitive when it comes to interactions with humans.”

As fascinating as they are beautiful, whales live in all the world’s oceans, communicating through complex and beautiful sounds.

The largest animal on the planet, the Blue Whale can weigh as much as 200 tonnes.

More than sixty percent of the world's whale population can be found in Australian waters, where numbers have grown steadily over the last twenty years. At the top of the food chain, whales play a vital role in the overall health of the environment.

“Doing our tours has allowed us to be helpful in the preservation and conservation of these whales, and we are very aware of the responsibility to protect this endangered species,” said Marlon.

“Southern Whales may have their calves with them and they tend to go close to shore so we are conscious about being careful around them. Even though our permits say we can be reasonably close, we leave it up to the whale and decipher their comfort levels.” continued next page...

Above: Marlon Quinn. Inset: Guests enjoying a whale watching adventure.

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KATE 3 seater sofa in matrix fabric WESLEY coffee table in oak wicker / raw

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Marlon says it is very much about mutual interaction.

“We never encroach on them and will not force interaction; if they want to come up and interact that’s fantastic and we take that approach to all the animals we see. If they are just passing through and want to be left alone, we let that occur as it makes a more real interaction,” said Marlon of his ‘softly softly’ approach.

“We don’t want to be out there impacting in a negative way. They are an endangered species that used to be hunted so protection and conservation is an important thing.”

As the seasons have progressed, whales have been caught in the cray pot lines which Marlon and his crew now watch out for.

Southern Right Whale Photo: James Lee

“When we are on our tours, we always keep an eye out for animals in possible danger,” he said. “It is paramount that we protect and help these magnificent giants. It is all about establishing respect and trust from us. We are in their environment after all,” he said. “I want our guests to have a natural experience. It is not to get in there and get a photo at any cost. It is about witnessing them in their habitat and giving them a sustainable future.”

www.watermaarq.com.au

Killer Whale (Orca) Photo: Tim Cole

Help support our Legacy Family Legacy Week 31st August – 7th September 2019 For each serving Australian sailor, soldier or airman who risks everything in the defence of our nation’s freedom, a family does the same.

Support the widows and families of our Veterans during Legacy week.

Buy a badge or go online to make a donation to Legacy. Donate at www.legacy.com.au/donate

Mornington Peninsula Legacy Club

Phone: (03) 9708-8201 Email: legacy@mplegacy.com.au

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ANOTHER DRAM Please

By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni

W

hen you have a grandfather who is credited with pioneering Scotch whisky, it’s a pretty safe bet that you might be involved in the alcohol industry at some stage of your life. That could not be truer of Alex Bruce, the managing director of Adelphi, the independent bottler which also owns Ardnamurchan distillery on Scotland’s west coast. Peninsula Essence talks to Mr Bruce about his family ties, association with alcohol and how he found his way to the Mornington Peninsula.

“My grandfather was Andrew Usher Sr, who is credited with pioneering blended Scotch whisky,” said Mr Bruce, who has flown all the way over from Scotland to host a Scotch whisky tasting event at Seabreeze Cellars in Dromana. “My father, the Earl of Elgin was one of the original patrons of the Keepers of the Quaich and has been a global ambassador as such. I decided I wanted to have my career in Scotch whisky after coming out of university in the early 90’s.

I was doing a third year placement and got a job in the marketing department at Remy Martin in Paris which, as you can imagine, was hard to take - working on the Champs Elysees. Yet I still wanted to have a career in Scotch whisky with the heritage of my family.”

“When you are a student you go for the cheapest drinks. One day I was skiing with my best friend whose father had a whisky shop in the highlands. I remember coming off the slopes and his father shouted us two whiskies - mortlach and linkwood from the old flora and fauna series - and I was hooked,” he said. “I wanted to come back to Scotland after Paris and do Scotch whisky but it has always had its ups and downs and we were coming out of a down but it still takes five years to be ready for sale. I got a job with a wine and whisky company and worked in the wine side for about three years.

To expand the business, I wanted to buy some special whisky for retail and I went to Adelphi. That sales meeting turned into a job interview and I haven’t looked back.”

Starting out, Adelphi had two casks and 300 bottles and Mr Bruce was working from home on his own.

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For Mr Bruce, being brought up in a family environment with very fine wine and whisky had a definitive impact on his future.

“Although my father didn’t have any direct contact with the distillery, on mum’s side there was a big whisky influence dating back to the mid 1800’s with her family name, Usher. The original family members were all grocers in those days and would buy aqua vitae, which is a strong distilled alcohol. They would market it through their stores and it was the very early days of branding. Andrew Usher would put it into casks and mature it that way,” said Mr Bruce, who remembers playing in the shops as a child. “As a kid growing up, I remember setting up a pretend shop with my brother, using the discarded boxes and we pretended to sell whisky. There was always a feeling of having whisky around you.”

While he grew up in a whisky-loving family, it wasn’t until after university that Mr Brook started to acquire a taste for the liquor.

Alex Bruce & the Kincardine seven year old blended malt whisky by Adelphi.

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“It was 2004 when I began to establish the Adelphi name among whisky connoisseurs around the world and, three years later, we started to think about building a distillery to complete the full circle and service for the ever-growing demand for Adelphi’s whiskies,” said Mr Bruce of the distillery that would be built by 2014.

“The first bottling was released in 2016 and all 2500 bottles available throughout the world were sold overnight.”

When it comes to drinking whisky, Mr Bruce has a simple philosophy.

To be part of the design and planning of the new distillery in Ardnamuchan has been one of the highlights of Mr Bruce’s career, bringing the family heritage full circle with a focus on renewable energy resources in a spectacular location in Scotland.

“The criteria for selection include rarity and maturity, but above all flavour,” said Mr Bruce.

“Adelphi whiskies are both rare and sought-after; these very special casks are so rare that, on average, Adelphi accepts a mere 4% that is offered. Each single cask of whisky matures its contents very differently, imparting its own character to the whisky it holds and, as a result, there are never two Adelphis quite the same.”

It’s good if it tastes good to you

“We use 100% local and renewable energy sources and have the capacity to produce 600,000 litres of alcohol per annum,” said Mr Bruce. “Our distillery is set in the most westerly peninsula of the British mainland. Even my sister works for Adelphi now.”

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“It’s good if it tastes good to you,” he said. “That’s the only way to tell. Our whisky is easy to drink and exciting. It doesn’t matter where it comes from or how old it is. It is all about the flavour.”

At the Adelphi distillery, the team identify a small number of casks that have produced the ultimate whiskies.

www.thewhiskycompany.com.au

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August 2019

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RELAX & Breathe

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By Melissa Walsh Photos Gary Sissons & supplied

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t originated in ancient India, became popular in the west in the 20th century and literally means “to yoke” and “concentration”. It is the ancient practice of yoga and it is still surrounded by a certain mystery. Yet yoga is a lot simpler than most people realise. It is a practice that aims to join the mind, body and spirit, and is not about being ridiculously flexible or standing on your head as yoga instructor and director at Silverleaf Yoga, Robin Anderson, explains.

“Yoga is a way to keep the body active and has a secondary effect that reduces stress simply by its actions,” said Robin, who started practising Iyengar Yoga in 1992 and trained under senior teacher Glenn Ceresoli two years later. “I was introduced to yoga by an ex-girlfriend years ago. I had been a runner and was suffering with knee problems and joint issues which stopped me from running.

I came to a yoga class and felt good after it.

I was one of those people who were stiff as a brick; I couldn’t touch my toes, and yoga gave me flexibility. I was the original hunchback but I got my spine straight and started to feel more energetic and, as so, emotionally and mentally healthier.”

Starting the purpose built yoga studio on the Mornington Peninsula was a no-brainer for Robin, who had spent a large amount of time on the family property in Red Hill where they run a nursery.

“We have ten beautiful acres here and I figured this was the best place to build Silverleaf Yoga,” said Robin, of the stunning brick building that looks out over undulating hills covered with gum trees.

“We are also proud to run the anti-gravity yoga classes, utilising hammocks that allow weightless poses to be done. While it can take a couple of classes to get used to the hammocks, there are so many benefits, supporting classical poses but taking the weight off the joints,” said Robin, who has students ranging from 20 year olds to their 80’s. “Yoga is not difficult. It is a gentle way to get the body to become more flexible and improves strength and balance which make every day activates easier on the body.”

We have really created a beautiful place here for people to come and learn about yoga, have some time out and, in the process, learn to be in the moment

The type of class that Robin was “dragged along to” was precise and accurate which turned out to be the perfect modality for him.

“It was Iyengar yoga, named after B. K. S. Iyengar, that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment in the performance of posture and breath control. This was perfect for me and the yoga I concentrate on in my studio, helping to gain strength, mobility and stability,” said Robin. “Iyengar yoga often makes use of props such as belts, blocks, and blankets, as aids in performing the postures.”

After building the studio in 2012, Robin says the response has been wonderful.

“We have really created a beautiful place here for people to come and learn about yoga, have some time out and, in the process, learn to be in the moment,” he said. “Our classes go for about two hours, giving everyone time to really decompress and practice the art of mindfulness as it naturally happens when doing a pose.” www.silverleafyoga.com.au Main Image: Robin Anderson from Silverleaf Yoga.

Top images: Robin demonstrates flexibility of yoga poses.

Bottom images: Aerial yoga class in action.

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BEV Hugs

By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni

I

t is 6 o’clock on a cold Saturday morning and Rye grandmother, Bev Parker, gets out of bed, makes a cup of tea and gets ready for her job as a marshal for the Rosebud Park run. This will be the 61st park run for the 73 year old, who loves every moment, and has already built a reputation for giving her ‘Bev hugs’.

“I absolutely love doing the park run every Saturday. It has given me something to do again and I look forward to it every week,” said Bev, who was introduced to the park run through her daughter, who does the park run in Berwick.

“My daughter said they needed volunteers and so I wasn’t given much choice,” she said with a laugh. “I thought I’d probably do one or two but I have ended up doing every one since, apart from when we went away for a couple of weeks.”

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The Rosebud Park run is a free weekly five kilometre event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 8:00am in Rosebud Parade, Rosebud. It is not a race against other runners, but a five kilometre timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan. It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain.

“I have to be down at the Rye Pier by 7.15am for us to set up,” said Bev, who proudly wears her bright orange volunteer top and wraps herself in gloves and scarves to keep the bite of the cold wind away.

“I have done 61 Saturdays encouraging the fabulous runners, and four doing the tokens. It is like a little community; you get to know everybody and I feel like I’m part of a family.

We get a great gathering in Rosebud, even in the winter time and everybody has so much fun

"We have mums with their prams pushing little ones, who I make sure to high-five on the way through. And my Bev hugs have become a tradition already. I just think it’s great to encourage people to be out there, getting fresh air and doing something healthy for themselves. And the other volunteers are just wonderful, with people from all walks of life and age groups.”

Bev says people taking part in the park run can walk, jog or run and it’s all about having fun.

“Taking part is easy. You just show up after you have registered for your first run and off you go. We start at Rosebud Parade, Rosebud, and the course is run on a mixture of asphalt paths and the timber boardwalk. We get a great gathering in Rosebud, even in the winter time and everybody has so much fun,” said Bev. “Then we often go inside and have a coffee around 9.30 to finish off a great morning.

We swap stories about the run that day and chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.”

At 73, Bev says she never wants to stop doing the park run.“I just love being out there, feeling like I am part of the community and needed in some way. It has added a social aspect to my life that I was looking for,” said Bev, who has lived on the peninsula for nearly 20 years with her husband, Ray. “We love it down here. It is such a close community where everybody says hello to you,” she said. “And the park run is a bonus, with people bringing their children in strollers, running with their dogs, old friends walking along enjoying the morning and smiles for miles. I never want to give this up.” www.parkrun.com.au/rosebud

Left: Bev Parker, the running hugger.

Above: Rosebud park runners.

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A TEAM OF

Problem Solvers Story & photos by Keith Platt

T

he members of the can-do Solve Disability Solutions Mornington Peninsula team have had years of experience in any number of skills: metalwork, woodwork, sewing and machinery.

In all probability, they could do almost anything on demand, from building a bridge to making a thimble. Their skills begin with problem solving and end with manufacturing.

Instead of putting their abilities on the market, this A-team of professionals and tradespeople works for free. Solve’s 11 Victorian branches are the state’s only not-for-profit NDIS provider.

The organisation designs and builds equipment that is not available commercially for disabled people. Often one-offs, the products quite often meet very specific needs. Requests made for Solve to fix a problem are assessed and coordinated by an occupational therapist.

Solve Disability Solutions is Victoria’s only not-for-profit NDIS provider. Bill Hallet, of Mornington, a former systems analyst, says most of the experts volunteering their skills through Solve are retired. They have ended their commercial working lives but want to continue using their accumulated knowledge.

As with many good ideas, some of the examples of the work of Solve seem simple. But someone had to come up with the solution to the problem. One Solve “client” could not successfully drink through a straw. It was hard to maintain the pressure needed for sucking. Solve put the problem to its members and one came up with the idea of placing a one-way valve in a plastic straw. Problem solved. Another client was able to use a computer keyboard but couldn’t pick up a CD. Simple. Make a pick-up stick.

A man who loved to go kayaking posed another more involved problem. He was able to launch his craft from a trailer dragged behind his wheelchair but, as he had no legs, could not operate the foot controls necessary to adjust the rudder. “We made a mechanism which allowed him to control the rudder by sucking or blowing through a plastic straw, or tube,” Hallet says.

Hallett shows Essence a frame for a retractable set of steps he made for a side-opening van. Commercially available steps were too narrow and the man Solve set out to help could only use them by virtually crawling into the van. Like Hallett, most members of Solve are handson types; they can’t resist fiddling with anything and everything mechanical and want to do things themselves. They love a challenge.

In 2013, Hallett and then Solve chairman Stan Proctor went to a continued next page...

Main Image: Bill Hallett. Above: A team of problem solvers: Chris Pyke (centre) enjoyed a surprise visit from Hey Hey It’s Saturday personality Plucka Duck with the volunteers from Solve involved in building the special exercise bike. From left, Stan Proctor, Alan Grimes, Louise Stewart, Melissa Thai, John Pratt, Peter Kay, Henry Van Ginkel, Bill Hallett and Jeremy Hallett.

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A delighted Mr Pyke warmly embraced his screen idol before performing a Plucka Duck sequence

beach event being held by the Disabled Surfers Association’s Mornington Peninsula branch, speaking with carers and the disabled about their special needs. Drumming up work for the Solve team. An active member of the DSAMP’s committee (and former president) Hallett sees synchronicity between his two main “retirement” occupations. The cross pollination has led to a beanbag styled seat which, once on a “soft” surfboard, enables a disabled person to surf sitting upright.

A further connection between the two organisations saw Solve modify a wheelchair for use on a flying fox at the YMCA’s Camp Manyung at Mt Eliza. The heady days and irreverence of the TV show Hey Hey It’s Saturday may seem poles apart from Solve, but the two have come together in Mornington. While it may not have been the entire program, one of the most bizarre segments of the acclaimed show was the regular appearance of Plucka Duck. In June, Plucka was back on centre stage as Chris Pyke pedalled the wheels of a bike in time with 24 spinning Plucka Duck dolls. The mini show marked the handing over to Mr Pyke of an exercise bike, complete with a scaled down working Plucka Duck carousel. Built by the members of Solve the bike and its solar powered Plucka Duck carousel, or merry go round, is now installed at Mr Pyke’s house. Mr Pyke told Solve he needed to be motivated to exercise to lose weight and improve his overall health. Members of Solve modified a road bike frame into a penny-farthing style bike to match the aesthetics of the original Plucka cycle.

Mr Pyke is also something of an expert when it comes to the trivia and details of the show.

Without much prompting he will reel off facts and figures about Hey Hey’s creators (Daryl Somers and Ernie Carroll), its stars (including Levinia Nixon, Jacki MacDonald, Russell Gilbert, John Blackman, Red Symons and Molly Meldrum) and its history (when it started, ended, its revival specials and a 2010 comeback). The biggest surprise part of the June handover came when Plucka Duck swept into the room. A delighted Mr Pyke warmly embraced his screen idol before “performing” a Plucka Duck sequence before the members of Solve. His collection of the mini Plucka Ducks is nearing 150: “I collect anything Hey Hey that’s for sale on eBay or Gumtree. I never miss a bargain as they’ll never be made again,” he says. He has met other Hey Hey “fanatics” through the official Facebook page and knows of people collecting videos of old episodes. The episodes can be watched online but it is illegal to download them. His Plucka Ducks (“genuine, not copies”) sit on shelves at home alongside a wheel that used to be spun by contestants in the show’s prize-awarding Plucka Duck segment.

While those Pluckas on the shelves sit out their sheltered lives, the 24 on the Solve-built merry-go-round are sure to get a daily work out as they provide an irresistible incentive for Mr Pyke to use his exercise bike. If you think you or someone you know can use these services, please get in contact.

As well as being one of the most enthusiastic of Hey Hey It’s Saturday’s legion of fans (a Facebook page has 500,000 followers),

Solve Disability Solutions' services, Ph: 1300 663 243 www.solve.org.au

Chris Pyke peddaling for "Plucka".

A Solve-designed soft seat provides a stable platform on a surfboard for Sam Bainbridge, under the watchful eyes of Phil Gorton (running) and Tim Rendall.

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August 2019

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A LEGACY OF Caring

By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni

S

ince 1923 Legacy has kept a promise to help the families of our military servicemen; the widows and children left behind. It’s a long time since Melbourne Legacy (Peninsula Group) was founded in 1954, with the Melbourne Legacy’s peninsula group becoming autonomous 11 years later. Yet the Mornington Peninsula branch of Legacy continues to help almost 1200 widows. Peninsula Essence talks to Barry Smith, President of Mornington Peninsula Legacy, about what can be a life-changing role of helping widows, and dependants of those who have served the country. continued next page...

Leonard with Alexander and their mother Linna, have all been helped by Legacy.

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As time goes on, unless we have another war, we will be out of business.

Our aim is to work our way out of business

“Legacy is a voluntary organisation supported by veterans, service men and women, and volunteers drawn from all walks of life,” said, a Legatee and ex-navy man Mr. Smith. “We are dedicated to enhancing the lives and opportunities of our families through innovative and practical programs, financial assistance, advocating for entitlements, rights and benefits, and everyday help assisting with unexpected bills.”

With the aim of Legacy to help people thrive through loss, Mr Smith explains that it is not just about financial assistance, but assisting families to get on with their lives.

“We do offer financial assistance but it is not the only support service,” said Mr Smith from Legacy House in Mt Eliza. “While we provide financial assistance for widows where necessary, there’s not a great deal of requirement for that these days, although we can assist with paying the big bills. We also ensure the children of the deceased service person are financially assisted with their education up until year 12, and then look for bursaries for tertiary study if necessary.”

Mr Smith says that at times it has been the smallest things at times that have had the biggest impact.

“There was a lady who had a leaking roof and called a plumber who said the roof needed $14,000 of work. We got our plumber to check out the roof and it was fixed for $14,” he said. “In a big storm a couple of years back we also had a lady’s roof blow off and she rang her legatee instead of the SES. It was 2am and he got out of bed, went around and put a tarp on her roof. She could not have been more grateful.”

While the majority of the widows and families in need are older, Mr Smith says a young woman in her forties, Linna, is a rare exception.

When you volunteer as a Legatee, you are allocated a number of families who become your responsibility. It doesn’t need to be more than a few hours a week of service and we are looking for more volunteers,” said Mr Smith. “It is incredibly rewarding and you don’t have to be a former member of the services.

We have assisted a lot of families across the peninsula. One of the mums we helped get through university to become a dentist. Some of our children we have taken overseas to the Kokoda track and France to learn about our history and the people who made it. The Mornington Peninsula Legacy runs from Chelsea to Sorrento and across to Western Port.”

Mr Smith says that when a serviceman or woman passes away, Legacy steps up.

“Personally, this has been a most rewarding experience for the last ten years. You can be sad at a the situation but know you are helping someone change or cope with their circumstances,” he said.

“As time goes on, unless we have another war, we will be out of business. Our aim is to work our way out of business. “ In the meantime, Legacy does need the community’s help.

Legacy Week is Australia’s iconic fundraising campaign which began in 1942. It is also known for its Badge Day and the badges offered as a token of appreciation for the donation made by the public. Legacy Week 2019 is from Sunday September 1 to Saturday September 7.

“Help our families by becoming a volunteer now or donating to the cause. You can buy a badge or make an online donation,” said Mr Smith.

“Linna’s husband passed away three years ago due to cancer, and left his wife and two small children. Alexander was just born and Leonard was only one,” said Mr Smith.

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Mornington Peninsula Legacy Club Inc 1283 Nepean Hwy, Mt. Eliza.

Phone 9708 8201.

President of Mornington Peninsula Legacy Barry Smith with Linna, Alexander and Leonard.

August 2019

“We have assisted Linna work out her finances, will continue to put the children through their education, and be a support service for her when necessary.”

Retirement

Living but not as you know it.

Perfectly positioned in pristine Mt Martha, Martha Bay offers a choice of immaculately presented residences for the discerning downsizer.

Sales Suite Now Open!

176 Main Street Mornington While our display villas and sales office is under construction, we are conveniently located in Main Street Mornington.

Drop in or make an appointment to discuss your retirement future with our friendly sales specialists.

Freecall: 1800 998 990 marthabay.com.au

Peninsula

Photos

Martha Bay Village Launch

Guests enjoyed drinks before a two course luncheon at the launch of Martha Bay, RCA Villages newest village on the peninsula, with special guest speaker Tony Barber.

Local business owners gathered for a wonderful night at the Mornington Chamber of Commerce Networking Night. Drinks and nibbles were enjoyed at Mornington’s Casa de Playa restaurant.

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Martha Bay Village Launch

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Chamber of Commerce Networking Night

Adelphos Tours

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Experience The Mornington Peninsula.

Smaller groups welcome.

Website: adelphostours.com.au Freecall: 1300 710 087

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Peninsula

Photos

The 3rd Bite Conference was held at the Frankston Arts Centre on Thursday, 20th June with record numbers attending and enjoying the great presenters.

House and Garden Tours Two for One Special running each Thursday and Saturday August 17th Friday August 9th Daniel de Borah Saturday August 10th Simon Monger and Amir Farid Friday August 23rd.

Laurens Patzlaf The Art of Improvisation Recitals begin at 1.30pm and are followed by afternoon tea. www.beleura.org.au Tel 03 5975 2027

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Win these products!

Father’s Day

Gift Ideas

2.

Be sure to follow our Instagram page @peninsulaessence for details on how to enter.

1.

ULTIMATE EARS BOOM 2

Designed to get wet, muddy and beat up, Ultimate Ears BOOM 2 is the Bluetooth® speaker that blasts insanely great sound in every direction – everywhere you go. It is waterproof (IPX 7), drop-proof (from up to five feet high), disruptive and bold, plus a whole lot of fun.

ORIGINAL SPRIRIT CO. GIN

RRP: $229.95 www.ultimateears.com

The latest addition to the GINFUSION range combines Original's 'Classic Dry' gin with Peninsula grown rhubarb and Australian ginger. Delivering a lingering and comforting warmth, 'Country Rhubarb and Ginger' offers a perfect winter warmer for Dad this Fathers Day. For a new experience, combine with hot water, a slice of fresh green apple and enjoy like a tea!

Available at the Original Spirit Co and selected bottle shops.

RRP: $65.00 www.originalspiritco.com

3.

4.

THE LOGITECH® K600 TV KEYBOARD is the smarter way to control your

Smart TV. With the K600 TV Keyboard, you can easily use the web browser of the TV, enter text to search for the content you want to watch, and navigate media content in your favourite video and streaming applications. With a 15-metre wireless range, the K600 TV Keyboard provides a reliable connection with no drop-outs.

RRP: $99.95 www.logitech.com

5.

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August 2019

JAYBIRD TARAH PRO WIRELESS SPORT HEADPHONES

Designed for the Bear Grylls kind of Dad, the Tarah Pro headphones will endure the toughest of environments for the longest of adventures. Inspired by the demands of ultra races, these wireless headphones provide fourteen hours of play time with a secure fit, so Dad can tackle any outdoor challenge.

RRP: $249.95 www.jaybirdsport.com

ST ANDREWS BEACH BREWERY

The Strapper Australian Lager is a unique South East Australian lager style, brewed with heirloom Australian barley and hop varieties for soft bitterness and fresh fruity flavour.

RRP: $65.00. www.standrewsbeachbrewery.com.au

6.

The LOFT (for Google Home) and JOT (for Google Home Mini) from Ninety7, is a rechargeable battery base that gives your smart assistant eight hours of cordless power. Move from room to room without interrupting your podcast, audio book or favourite playlist. www.ninety7.com

7.

LOFT for Google Home is available in Carbon, Snow and Copper RRP $69.95.

The JOT for Google Home Mini is available in Carbon and Silver RRP $59.95.

Available from JB HiFi, Kogan, Dick Smith, David Jones, officeworks.com.au & Amazon.com.au. *Must already have Google Home or Google Home Mini to use.

LADY BEATLE

Rediscover the Beatles’ immortal catalogue as new, reimagined and reinterpreted through sparkling original arrangements performed live by this world-class vocalist and a virtuosic band of Australia’s top musicians.

Thursday 12 September, 8pm at the Frankston Arts Centre.

RRP: $118.00 www.thefac.com.au

9.

8.

VICTORINOX

has inspired foodies across the world with its popular Classic Limited Edition Design Contest. The creative folks on crowdstorming platform, jovoto.com were given the motto “Food of the World” to work on.

Victorinox has then brought the ten most popular ideas among fans to life with its signature 58-mm Swiss Army Knife in a limited run collection.

RRP: $52.95

www.victorinox.com

Photo: Karon Photography

ARTHUR’S SEAT EAGLE GIFT VOUCHER

Take your Dad to new heights this Fathers day!

An Arthurs seat "eagle" gift voucher is just the ticket for him and your family to take in the stunning sights of Port Phillip bay. www.aseagle.com.au/gift-vouchers

10.

TASTE THE RAINBOW: TUCKS FATHER’S DAY EDIT

Give Dad every colour of the Tucks rainbow this Father’s Day with the full collection from the NOW range. Tucks NOW offers an affordable, approachable wine collection and, as the name suggests, they’re all designed to be consumed right now.

The Father’s Day edit includes: 1 x NOW Pinot Noir, 1 x NOW Shiraz, 1 x NOW Chardonnay, 1 x NOW Pinot Gris, 1 x NOW Rosé, 1 x Tucks Vues Sparkling for the all important Father’s Day toast!

RRP: $174 www.tuckswine.com.au

August August2019 2019

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Arts

WOOLF'S FREEDOM

of the Mind Lock up your libraries if you like; but there is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of my mind.

Virginia Woolf, A Room of One's Own

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By Melissa Walsh

W

hen Peta Hanrahan first read Virginia Woolf ’s “A Room of One’s Own” she was not prepared for the effect it would have on her. Reading the book for the first time as a woman of 27 had a profound impact on her life, leading to greater self-awareness, understanding the plight of women, and a play adaptation that would be sold out in 2016 and then re-emerge to even larger audiences this year.

“A Room of One’s Own” is Hanrahan's stage adaptation of Virginia Woolf's classic and features four performers as aspects of Woolf’s mind in conversation with herself and the audience.

“I started working on the adaptation in 2010 but it had its premiere season in 2016. It was so profound and relevant, I decided to bring it back this year,” said Hanrahan, who has been an independent theatre practitioner in the Australian theatre industry for over thirty years.

“I started out as an actor, studying with a Lecoq master in Australia for four years but discovered that my skills were more suited to directing. Maybe I just like to be in control of what’s going on the stage,” she said with a laugh. “I do love the passion of actors and how they can just put themselves out there and will always want to be around the theatre.”

continued next page...

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Hanrahan says that Virginia Woolf’s feminist essay of the late 1920’s champions recognition for women writers within a literary tradition dominated by men.

There was no poetic licence needed and I would not attempt to change any of Woolf’s words. Every word she wrote means something

“Woolf addresses traditionally viewed gender roles and the restrictions placed on women to seek higher education yet she does so in a gentle way that guides the audience and reader and doesn’t tell them what to think,” said Hanrahan. “She starts out in an almost naïve way, then decides to find the answers by going to the library where she discovers she is not allowed in without a letter or a chaperone.”

Based on lectures Woolf gave to two women's colleges at Cambridge in 1928 on the subject of "Women in Fiction", the extended essay “A Room of One’s Own” remains a key work of feminism, infusing argument with narrative technique. For Hanrahan it was the ideal piece of literature to translate to the stage.

“There was no poetic licence needed and I would not attempt to change any of Woolf’s words. Every word she wrote means something,” she said. “It is inherently perfect as a lecture and performance as it was meant to be delivered to an audience. The only thing I have done is apply the markers that she left throughout the novelette.”

After growing up in a working class background, with a dominant male in her life, Hanrahan had firsthand experience of living in a patriarchal environment, and looked for answers through art and expression.

“When I read Virginia Woolf it made me calm down. It spoke to me and helped me to understand what I was feeling,” she said. “I believe her work, particularly this play, can help people understand gender disparity and open up a dialogue for all age groups and gender.

That is one of the wonderful things about A Room of One’s Own. It

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only goes for an hour but, in that time, the audience often comes away selfcontemplative. It can open up discussions between mothers and daughters, the young and older, who may have thought they understood female oppression until they saw this play.”

Hanrahan says campaigns like #MeToo have reached out all over the world and empowered women, and that social media and the internet allow the whole world to be more educated.

“All communication mediums are no longer owned and dominated by financially agenda-driven people. We have access to all knowledge at the tip of our fingers with articles, blogs and even live footage taken on iPhones of women living in other countries,” said Hanrahan.

“One of the major themes in “A Room of One’s Own” is education, and how women historically have been isolated from learning. The great thing about Virginia Woolf is we get to follow her line of logic as to what and why that happened historically in western culture. And in the process, we learn something about ourselves.”

In A Room of One’s Own, four actors (Carolyn Bock, Marissa O'Reilly, Jackson Trickett and Anna Kennedy) deliver Woolf's contentions and fugues, her conflicting internal voices and imagined characters.

“We have two weeks in Melbourne, then start our regional tour, including Frankston, which we are really looking forward to,” said Hanrahan.

“A Room of One’s Own” will be showing at the Frankston Arts Centre on Wednesday August 21 at 7pm. artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats_On

Left: Peta Hanrahan, adaptor and director of A Room of One’s Own. Above: Enthralling dialogue to inspire and empower.

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INFORMATION CENTRE

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PENINSULA HOME SHOPPING CENTRE & ALDI SUPERMARKET

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WINERIES

GOING Dotty

By Melissa Walsh Photos Gary Sissons

A

revolutionary painting technique from the mid1880’s called stippling has provided a new lease of life to local artist, Donna Taylor, proving old techniques can be used by modern creatives.

Her business, 'Dots by Donna', is a testament to Donna’s love for drawing dots which she has turned into works of art and created a lucrative business in the heart of Mornington.

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Nothing is traced and the artistic integrity is paramount in every piece

“It was five years ago and I was a new mum with a little girl. I was working long hours in retail and missing out on spending time with my daughter.

One day my husband said I should quit my job and do something less time-consuming, so I did,” said Donna from her shop in Mornington. “I was a bit lost so I pulled out a notebook and started drawing as a way of venting. My husband saw it and loved the drawing then put it up on social media which I was not impressed with. Nevertheless, I decided to finish it and people asked me to start doing drawings for them.”

From that fateful day, five years ago, Donna’s small hobby has turned into a sought after product with people falling in love with the magic 'Dots by Donna' pictures.

“I started getting requests for children’s pictures which I did a few of, and then decided my real love was to draw what I felt inspired by, so I set about drawing constantly,” she said. “Within 12 months, we were doing market stalls and the rest is history. Now we have our purpose-built shop in Mornington, still do market stalls and have turned it into a great family business, which even my husband and mum work in now.”

The original drawing of the Indian Chief is still as popular today as five years ago when Donna scribbled it on a notebook.

“I have stuck to drawing the things that I love and have lots of animals, which are all named after family members,” said Donna, who admits drawing always came easily to her.

“When we started out, mum and I would spend hours framing all the prints on the dining room table, but we didn't mind because we were doing something we loved. Before I knew it, the first market which we did at Mornington Racecourse, turned into another market and soon we had friends and family doing markets of their own for us.”

Doing the stippling is a long and laborious process and each piece can take from 40 to 200 hours to complete.

“My illustrations are original and come with a life of their own, and you definitely need a steady hand to do them,” said Donna who must also be incredibly patient. “It is all about these thousands of dots forming unique works of art, ranging from animals to dream catchers, Indian chiefs and headdresses, as well as the highly coveted African Goddess print.”

Every single detail from small features to hair strands and single expressions are made up from the layering of thousands of dots and done so completely free hand.

“Nothing is traced and the artistic integrity is paramount in every piece,” she said. “They are ideal for the living room, bedroom, nursery or as a gift.”

Dots by Donna is at 4 Ross Street, Mornington. www.dotsbydonna.com

Donna Taylor in her purpose built shop and studio.

August 2019

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Rebirth

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni

W

ho would think that an inanimate object could have a life of its own? Take the humble barrel for instance.

The oak it’s made from begins its life as a living organism, but once cut, it is considered a lifeless ‘thing’. Well, barrels are a bit different.

Once their oak is staved and hooped and sealed by a cooper, the barrel becomes a living vessel. That vessel may hold wine, whiskey, beer, bourbon or rum, but each inhabitant of the oak lays down a layer of history and that barrel takes on a life of its own.

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continued next page...

August 2019

Carl Smith in his Langwarrin showroom.

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I use the right angles and take advantage of the curve. Not many people use curved timber, but it works for me.

Some barrels date back hundreds of years. Over its lifetime it has many tasks to complete. A barrel breathes. It expands and contracts with temperature and weather. The oak absorbs the wine, beer or spirit as the barrel expands. As it contracts, it pushes the fluid back through its oak seams and the charcoal inside filters it.

It’s a perfect process.

Champion of the oak barrel and the many stories it holds, is fine woodworker Carl Smith, proprietor of Barrel Art Designs. He unpacks each story as he deconstructs the barrels and reconstructs them into functional art and furniture. He is dedicated to reclaiming these old storytellers and breathing new life into them.

Carl’s passion is evident in the care he takes making each item in his range of handcrafted products. He loves discovering how each barrel unfolds and creatively reimagining its next incarnation.

Clever engineering and beautiful design are hallmarks of his work.

His loafer chairs and rockers are a uniquely Australian take on the American Adirondack chair. Their smart design means his chairs fit virtually any body, though he can custom-make them to suit.

“I use the right angles and take advantage of the curve. Not many people use curved timber, but it works for me,” he says.

Each one-of-a-kind chair is made from an entire barrel and bears the marks of the hoops, interior stave stains and cooper’s marks.

His tables, bar stools, wine racks and wall clocks also bear their original maker’s marks and coloration from the wine or bourbon that had been inside the barrel.

His original inspiration came from a family dinner party. There was a fruit bowl on the table made from a wine barrel. He loved the curve. This is where his journey began exploring the many things that could be made taking advantage of the curve. Through a process of experimentation his product line grew.

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He started selling at local markets in Red Hill and Mornington before opening his own showroom in Langwarrin. He’s been making his barrel oak products for over five years now and hopes to expand his business into a larger line of furniture, a range of custom lighting, making custom cabinets, and fitting out cellar doors.

Most of his barrels are sourced from the Mornington Peninsula where wineries are plentiful, but they would have begun their lives in France or America – some of them centuries ago. Bourbon barrels are harder to source in Australia as they often have to travel from America. Carl likes the bourbon barrels’ deep internal charring, which makes for a strong contrast to the light coloured oak exterior.

Barrel Art Designs has a strong conservation and environmental ethos. Sadly, many ex-wine barrels are cut in half to be used as planters or burnt as firewood. Carl rescues barrels and makes them into products that have a very long, almost maintenance free life lifespan (though the furniture, if kept outside and not under cover, will need occasional re-oiling).

Carl uses eco-friendly food grade finishes and waxes on all of his products. These plant-based oils enhance the natural beauty of the timber, are UV safe and good for the environment.

It’s important to note that as a solo craftsman, it takes a lot of time to make his products so patience is necessary when ordering larger items such as chairs, tables and wine racks. A single chair takes 12-15 hours to handcraft. Demand for chairs is high as spring rolls around and very much in demand coming into Christmas.

A month’s prior notice is always a good idea.

www.barrelartdesigns.com.au

Opposite page: Horizontal wine rack, Left, from top: Barrel head basket, side table and loafer chair.

Right, from top: Carl putting the finishing touches on a side table and a variety of raw barrell timber

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MUSIC IN THE Family

By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni

S

he may only be 17 and still attending school but Bridget Allan is a young singer/ songwriter with a massive future. The Elisabeth Murdoch College student talks to Peninsula Essence about her love of writing and music and how important it is to put yourself out there for your passion.

“I have always loved music since I was a little girl and would sing around the house all the time,” said Brigid from her home in Dromana. “Mum and dad organized singing lessons from the time

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I was six and, by year seven, I was learning guitar at school which took my passion for music and writing to a whole new level.”

For Bridget and her band, with fellow musicians, Jake Hammill and Marlon Cini, the road is just beginning.

“We won the Push Music Comp Regional Finals, and the prize enabled them to record their debut EP ‘Attrition of a Daydreamer’ which came out the 18th of March, and has received airplay on Triple J, Triple R, PBS, 3CR, and SYN,” said the peninsula girl. “That was fantastic and we now do local festivals and gigs supporting the likes of Rya Park, Slowly Slowly and The Hardaches.”

When I was younger, dad and I used to play the ukulele together to the Beatles songs.

I still use his first guitar to this day, Bridget loves the vibrant local scene on the peninsula and has made some lucrative contacts with the Teenage Dad’s lead singer who has lent the studio to Bridget and the band for their further recording.

“I absolutely love their music and reached out to them.

I couldn’t belive it when they let us record in their studio in Mt Eliza. They have been so encouraging to us,” said Bridget. “The Bridget Allan Band is recording our next EP, which has been written, over the last few months.”

For Bridget, growing up with a musical dad has been a blessing.

Expect to pay around half the price FOR AN APPOINTMENT CALL

1300 230 430 SUITE 6 UPPER LEVEL 38A MAIN STREET, MORNINGTON w w w. d i a m o n d c o c o . c o m . a u

continued next page...

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“When I was younger, dad and I used to play the ukulele together to the Beatles songs. I still use his first guitar to this day,” she said.

“Dad even wrote songs when he was younger which I haven’t had the chance to listen to yet but I hope to one day.”

Bridget describes her music as rock with an acoustic feel.

“I play an alternative rock with the band and love lay-back acoustic. I like acoustic shows and relaxing with the crowd,” she said.

“Being under-aged and going to do pub gigs, I have to have parental supervision but mum and dad are great as they are willing to tag along.”

Spending most of the time writing her music at home, Bridget says it is important for her to write about her passions.

“When I first started writing it was inspired by being a teenager and the discovery of rock music. Now I write about political and environmental issues without feeling like I am preaching,” she said.

“When I finish school I would definitely like to go and study more music but I’m not sure what yet. In the meantime it is so good to be able to play gigs on most weekends and be inspired by the wonderful musicians around the peninsula.”

“Fresh and unpredictable, with some truly beautiful arrangements only enhancing the originals.”

MUSIC

Cultural Flanerie

Bridget Allan, singer/songwriter pens her at home.

“An irresistible twinkle, great directness, warmth and humour. A lovely play that shines” London Times

COMEDY/DRAMA

LADY BEATLE

MY BRILLIANT DIVORCE

Rediscover The Beatles’ immortal catalogue reimagined and reinterpreted through sparkling original arrangements.

A funny heartfelt story about Angela who is trying to ‘take charge’ after a divorce from her lying, cheating husband.

Thursday 12 September, 8pm

Saturday 14 September, 7.30pm

Tickets: thefac.com.au

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or

03 9784 1060

RIVER DEEP MountainHigh T

his month Nissarana Galleries at 211 Main Street Mornington is hosting two major solo exhibitions by two of Melbourne’s most talented artists. The amazing Zoe Ellenberg exhibition of exuberant spell-binding paintings and sculpture continues until the 11th August followed by the Graham Jones abstract expressionist exhibition with the opening event on Sat 24th August 2pm – 5pm.

Much of Graham Jones’ life has been consumed with some sort of artistic venture covering the genres of music, writing and design where he forged successful careers in all three areas. Since 1988 he is probably best known throughout the Mornington Peninsula for his awardwinning home design company.

Graham chose painting as a full time career in 2015, after a break of 50 years since he won the school art prize at St. Bede’s College Mentone.

With immense energy and robust work ethic, Graham has completed over 500 acrylic works on canvas and paper in just four years, many being held in collections in the USA, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates as well as Australia.

‘River Deep – Mountain High’ is a fantasy travelogue of expressionist painting sending us on a journey of inquiry, where ethereal landscapes

are transposed between the real and abstraction. An avid world traveler and storyteller, Jones portrays his subconscious into the visual dimension utilizing a playful colour palette intended to connect with our senses. With his rather unique, quintessential style, although still in evolution, Graham has gained subjective recognition throughout the art world and the many admirers of his work.

The exhibitions dates are: Graham Jones 23rd August – 15th September Zoe Ellenberg 19th July – 11th August NISSARANA GALLERIES Open Wed - Sun, 10am - 5pm, Mon - Tues 10am - 4pm or after hours by appointment Ground floor, 211 Main St, Mornington P: 5976 8877 M: 0474 496 222 info@ngmornington.com.au

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VILLAGE GLEN COMPLETES

their continuum of care

A

t Village Glen, we pride ourselves on providing the highest standard of care in every facet of our business; retirement living, aged care and home care.

We aim to give older people the full suite of care services to suit them at whatever stage of the journey they are at. Village Glen recognised there was one piece of their care puzzle missing.

Village Glen is completing their continuum of care model in 2019.

They are doing this by becoming a provider of ‘Short Term Restorative Care’ packages (STRC). In simplistic terms these are rehabilitation services for our elderly. These packages, assigned by the Government, allow Village Glen to provide another level of care to residents of the Mornington Peninsula.

This is just another way for Village Glen to provide tailored, specialised care to clients.

Someone you know may have had an illness or is struggling more than normal and would benefit from the Village Glen team providing a lengthy list of allied health services either in their own home or during a rehabilitation stay in one of our aged care residences, the choice is yours!

The STRC programme focuses on rehabilitation through wellness, reablement and restorative approaches to care. The aim of these new packages is to reverse any decline an older person may be experiencing and get them back on track, assisting people in staying in their own homes for longer, living the life they love.

The rehabilitation program is an eight week journey of intensive care, love and support to an elderly person. The objective is to target people who are experiencing functional decline and assist them in getting back on their feet and staying in their own home. Basically, if you aren’t feeling your normal self or lacking energy and strength, been unwell and daily tasks are harder than they should be, a STRC package could be for you. The list of services you can have on a STRC package is almost endless, but to name a few include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing care, assistance with shopping, help with showering, meal preparation and dietary advice. The list goes on.

Peter Nilsson, the Chief Operations Officer for Village Glen, explains, “Village Glen recognised a gap in its care model and has worked very hard to develop the STRC programme to provide a new level of care to clients, which we will be doing from July 1 2019”

The best part about these services is that the Village Glen team already have the staff trained and ready to go as all these services are already offered under the aged care and home care arm of the business.

To find out the steps to receiving a STRC package, please call Village Glen today. They will walk you through the process and assist along the way.

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Village Glen is proud to be one of the few providers offering these Government funded rehabilitation services on the Mornington Peninsula.

At Village Glen, Care Matters At Village Glen, we pride ourselves on providing the highest level of care in every facet of our business; retirement living, residential aged care and home care. You can trust Village Glen that the right team is on hand to achieve your care needs. We know that each resident is an individual, with a different history and story to tell. Our professional team listen and learns in order to tailor services to suit you. The resident is at the centre of everything we do.

At Village Glen Retirement Living, this means having a nurse on site and on call 24/7 to respond to the emergency call system.

At Village Glen Aged Care Residences, it means having a skilled and caring team of personal care assistants, nurses, chefs, allied health professionals and so much more, attending to residents and making their experience memorable.

At Village Glen Flexicare Home Support, it’s the responsive case management team providing a helping hand to ensure clients remain independent and living the life they love, wherever that may be.

At Village Glen, care is centre to everything we do.

The Village Glen family, caring for your family.

For more information about Village Glen, call Peter today on 0412 374 484.

Head Office: 335 Eastbourne Road, Capel Sound VIC 3940

WWW.VILLAGEGLEN.COM.AU

S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

HELPING FIND THE RIGHT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL FOR YOU By healthdirect.gov.au With so many health professionals to choose from, it’s worth thinking about which is best for you. Knowing which questions to ask, and how to search for the right professional, can help you make the right decision.

Things to consider when choosing a health professional There are several things to keep in mind when you are looking for a health professional.

Some practices might be easier to travel to than others. For example, you might find it easier to visit a health professional closer to your work rather than near your home.

Another thing to consider is whether you feel more comfortable seeing a female health professional, or a male one. Perhaps it doesn't matter if they are a man or woman.

Some health practices specialise in just one thing, such as psychology or physiotherapy, but other practices group together specialist's that work in different areas of health and medicine. It might be more convenient for you if different health professionals work in the same place.

A My Health Record allows you to share your health information with doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers if you want to so they can treat you effectively.

Some treatments, or ways of working, might suit you better, so it helps to do as much research as you can. For example, if you need psychological treatment, you might prefer to work one-on-one with a health professional, or you might prefer to be part of a group.

Ask how much your treatment will cost, and how you will be billed for your treatment. Some health professionals bulk bill through Medicare, which means you won't have to pay them for your treatment.

After your first visit, you might like to ask yourself the following questions: • Did I feel comfortable with them?

• Did I feel comfortable asking questions?

• Did they listen to me?

The Mornington Peninsula is home to many world class specialist of both medical and cosmetic professions. Being on the Mornington Peninsula we have an extensive range of medical professionals at our fingertips

Ask about opening hours, including after-hours care, home visits and longer appointments.

The peninsula's finest specialists range from dermatologists and gastroenterologists to neurologists and plastic surgeons. Each and every specialist is a professional in their line of work and is perfect for the job. They are always willing to give their advise on what to do and how to do it.

If you speak a language other than English, you might find it easier to see a health professional who speaks your language. Some healthcare professionals might also understand your cultural needs better than others.

Sources: beyondblue (Psychological treatments for anxiety), Choosing Wisely Australia (5 questions to ask your doctor or other healthcare provider), Choice (Your guide to choosing a good GP)

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S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

WHEN TO SEE AN ORTHODONTIST Children should be taken to their first orthodontic evaluation when they are between 7-10 years of age, according to expert, Dr Peter Scott Orthodontist in Frankston.

“Most children will have a mix of adult and baby teeth, which will help the orthodontist to determine if there are any developing problems such as misalignment of the jaws, crowding, or overbites,” said Dr Scott. “As a parent, it can be difficult to tell whether your child will benefit from early orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontists have the specialist training to know when and how it is appropriate to treat, when to wait and when no treatment is required. In some cases the orthodontist may recommend a course of treatment to begin one to five years after the initial evaluation, but in others cases there may be early measures the orthodontist can take to intercept developing problems.”

Early orthodontic treatment is often referred to as ‘phase one’, as it’s usually followed by further treatment when your child is older. Early treatment can address some of the more serious bite-related problems. Appropriate early orthodontic appliances can help to make space in the mouth for remaining adult teeth to come through in the proper place.

“Every child can benefit from an early orthodontic evaluation; however, there are a couple of signs that would suggest your child in particular could benefit from a visit to the orthodontist,” said Dr Scott. “The things to look out for are losing baby teeth prematurely due to cavities or trauma, snoring or breathing through the mouth, teeth that don’t meet properly when your child bites together, protruding and/or overcrowded teeth, difficulties with biting or chewing, thumb sucking, or a family history of impacted or missing teeth.”

Orthodontists are the most qualified and experienced clinicians who can manage all tooth and jaw alignment problems. Orthodontists can determine the best time to treat a specific orthodontic problem, whether it is as a child, teenager or adult.

Dr Peter Scott is at 13 Beach Street, Frankston.

Phone 9783 4511. www.drpeterscottorthodontist.com.au

Dr Peter A. Scott is a specialist orthodontist offering orthodontic care for children, teens and adults alike in both the Mornington Peninsula and inner Melbourne areas. He is also a consultant orthodontist at the Royal Childrens Hospital.

Specialist Orthodontist Creating Beautiful Smiles On The Peninsula For 30 Years Expertise In Child And Adult Orthodontics Early Assessment Of Dental Development And Facial Growth Ideal Age Of Initial Assessment 7-9 Years Early Intervention Where Appropriate For Best Outcome No Referral Necessary

13 Beach St Frankston

Ph: 9783 4511

www.drpeterscottorthodontist.com.au www.facebook.com/drpeterscottorthodontist August 2019

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S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

CARE AND CONNECTION AT THE BAYS The first days of your baby’s life are unforgettable.

The Bays Hospital in Mornington is relaxed, intimate and comfortable enough to feel like home.

With boutique modern rooms it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing to have their babies at The Bays.

“We feel privileged that each year over 500 families choose to share this experience with us”, says Marg Joyce, Clinical Service Manager at The Bays.

According to Marg, The Bays is about family and community.

“It’s not clinical and procedural. It’s about care and connection.”

Elaine Grant is the Maternity Unit Manager. She is excited to see The Bays’ reputation growing both here on the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.

With expert care from on-site obstetricians and paediatricians and a comprehensive special care nursery, parents can feel reassured that they are in safe hands.

The Bays is the only private hospital in Victoria to be accredited by the World Health Organization’s Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). The BFHI is a global effort by the WHO and UNICEF to implement practices that protect, promote and support breastfeeding.

"The skills and experience in The Bays maternity unit are impressive. We can feel so proud to have this boutique maternity unit here in our community".

Book a maternity tour at The Bays on (03) 5976 5262.

“It’s a testament to the professionalism of our team and our caring, supportive atmosphere. We pride ourselves on taking care of the whole family,” she says.

The Bays welcomes both private health insured and selffunded patients. It has very competitive pricing packages for a stay in the maternity unit. Parents can expect beautiful private rooms and birthing suites, plus wonderful meals from the a la carte menu which can be ordered at any time.

$20

FOOT HEALTH WITH BAYSIDE SHOES We hear a lot about health and well being that tends to focus on diet, sleep patterns and exercise as the critical issues for a better quality life.

A simple health and wellbeing solution that is often ignored, is the need for good fitting shoes with arch support that will support your body and take the stress off your feet, ankles, knees, hips and back.

Bayside Shoes specializes in offering solutions to rehabilitate painful feet across all age ranges and foot conditions as well as protect and support feet across all foot sizes.

We work closely with podiatrists, physiotherapists and orthopedic specialists to find an effective shoe solution that offers foot support, shoe quality and affordability.

Bayside Shoes has free and disability parking near its entrance with wheel chair ramp access to the store.

Bayside Shoes Warehouse 103 Railway Parade, Seaford.

Ph: 03 9785 1887 www.baysideshoewarehouse.com.au

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The Rockport World Tour and ProWalker range has arrived.

Built with comfort in mind, featuring a number of sports inspired details including the unique dual density, dual colour, injection moulded EVA outsoles, soft performance mesh linings and Ortholite footbed ensure a perfect fit.

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Call in and feel for yourself the comfort these shoes offer.

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BAYSIDE SHOES

103 Railway Parade, Seaford ph 9785 1887 www.baysideshoewarehouse.com.au Ample free parking | 57 August 2019 PENINSULA

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S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

ROSEBUD SKIN CANCER CENTRE Who is the best person to do skin checks?

So you've noticed a suspicious mole on your skin. You think it's changed in size, shape or colour, but you're not sure. Or you might have a worrying spot that is itchy or bleeds a bit. You may just have no idea whether the age spots you have are normal...

Should you be doing your own skin check, seeing your G.P., a skin cancer doctor, a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon?

There has been a lot of controversy about this and I want to give you some hints.

Though it's commonsense that when checking for dubious spots, lesions, freckles or moles, you should check your entire body, evidence suggests that doctors – and those of us who do self-checks – don't. Skin checks must be with only underwear on. Many studies have shown that the lesion a patient is concerned about is often not the dangerous one, so presenting with a mole/sore that concerns you is not enough. Also you can’t see your back where most melanomas occur. Purpose built rooms with adequate lighting and photography for monitoring is also desirable.

It may help to ask if the skin cancer doctor or GP you are

seeing has had additional training in dermoscopy - a way of assessing moles using a tool called a dermatoscope, which helps visualise features not visible by the naked eye.

It is important to understand what training your skin cancer doctor has undertaken. Generally they are GPs, who then go on to study further with the Skin Cancer College of Aust & NZ. To achieve the fellowship they need to have done three years full time skin cancer medicine before starting the program which generally can take another 3-10 years to complete this qualification.

So as long as your practitioner does a full body skin check, has a dermatoscope, adequate lighting and has extra training and experience in skin cancer, you are in the right hands. rosebuskincancercentre.com.au

Rosebud Skin Cancer Centre BULK BILL

skin checks for pensioners, healthcare card holders, DVA & & over 75’s

Mole mapping available procedures completed on site No referral needed Book an appointment

Call 5986 1600 Experienced professional skin cancer doctors all awarded by the College of Skin Cancer.

Dr Sally Shaw, Fellow SCCANZ and Dr Mary Tai Kie, Dip. Dermoscopy and Dip. Of Skin Cancer.

1079 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud

Ph: 5986 1600

www.rosebudskincancercentre.com.au

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S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

HELP WITH SPINAL PROBLEMS Dr David Edis is an orthopaedic and spine surgeon whose main interest is in the management of adult spinal conditions.

Setting up the clinic in Frankston two years ago, Dr Edis has a particular expertise in less invasive techniques to manage spinal deformity and is continually researching new and innovative ways to help with pain management and spine related issues without having to resort to surgery.

“I set up Victorian Orthopaedic Spine Service in November two years ago after my family and I moved to the peninsula,” said Dr Edis. “I was quite involved in pain management in northern Tasmania where we were living at the time. When I came back I was looking for a group to help coordinate with pain management services and found the pain management team at Frankston, led by Dr Taverner.”

Dr Edis specialises in adult spine surgery, hip and knee arthroplasty, knee arthroscopy, and orthopaedic trauma.

“I believe in a multi-disciplinary approach to patient care and work closely with a team to achieve evidenced based

contemporary care for patients with spinal conditions,” said Dr Edis. “Surgery is only one part of the solution for patients and I encourage further education about their conditions and, when appropriate, pursue non-operative treatments and selfmanagement before making a decision to have surgery.”

Dr Edis has been able to connect with specialists and allied health experts to make sure his patients get the correct treatment.

“One of the techniques we are using in spinal pain for treatment of patients with arthritis in the back is called radio frequency denervation. It is perfect for patients with no spinal deformity and just ageing of the joints. It can also be targeted to other areas of the body like the knee or hip, where it can delay the need for surgery or treat patients with pain after unsuccessful total joint replacement.”

Victorian Orthopaedic Spine Service 93 Frankston Flinders Road, Frankston.

Ph: 8683 9039 www.vicorthospine.com.au

Dr David Edis Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeon Special interests in treatment of • Adult Spine Surgery • Hip & Knee Arthroplasty • Knee Arthroscopy • Orthopaedic Trauma We can also help with: Degenerate Scoliosis Spondylolisthesis Spinal Stenosis Sciatica Facet Joint Arthritis Traumatic Lumbar All orthopaedic fractures and dislocations

Spine Fractures Failed back surgery Adjacent Segment Disease Spinal Tumors Spinal Infections Sagittal Imbalance Syndrome Osteoporotic Compression Fractures Cauda Equina Syndrome

93 Frankston - Flinders Rd, Frankston.

Phone: 8683 9039. www.vicorthospine.com.au

We also consult at The Bays Hospital, Mornington.

August 2019

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S P E C I A L M E D I C A L F E AT U R E

IN THE

Specialist's Hands

PENINSULA ENDERMOLOGIE Peninsula Endermologie is situated in Mount Eliza on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.

Owner Niamh Hislop uses established Lipomassage protocols to gradually and noticeably reduce the appearance of cellulite and unwanted fat deposits, as well as specialised Endermotherapie protocols for facial rejuvenation and therapeutic indications.

Graduating as a General Nurse in 1993, Niamh worked at The Harley Medical Group, the UK’s leading cosmetic clinic, for many years where she witnessed, first hand, the benefits that Endermologie offered her clients. Having identified the need for an affordable solution to cellulite and body contouring in her local area, and knowing that the results of treatment vary depending on the therapist, Niamh started Peninsula Endermologie as a specialised service with a focus on superior customer satisfaction and real results.

The efficacy of Endermologie has been proven with more than 140 clinical studies and many more testimonials which demonstrate significant results.

Endermologie is also effective for the treatment of discomfort associated with fibromyalgia, myofasical pain, scleroderma, lymphedema as well as muscle spasms and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMs).

"The gentle mechanical massage reduces the appearance of cellulite and unwanted fat deposits with zero risk and no downtime".

So, whether you're ready to tackle that cellulite, smooth out your body contours, improve the appearance of the skin on your face, need relief from pain and discomfort, or just need a little boost in a detox program, come and see for yourself what Peninsula Endermologie can do for you.

Initial consultations are free and Niamh ("Neve") will help you determine the best treatment protocol to help you achieve the results you desire and smoother, toned skin.

Now you can join the 20 million people worldwide who use face and body Endermologie to achieve overall wellness.

Peninsula Endermologie Wellness Centre and Cellulite 120 Humphries Road, Mt Eliza.

Ph: 0434 946 209 www.peninsulaendermologie.com

endermologie World’s Number One Cellulite Treatment

• Release Stubborn Fat • Skin Firming • Anti - Ageing Facial • Non - Invasive • Scientifically Proven • Therapeutic Benefits

Call Niamh for your FREE consult

0434 946 209

www.peninsulaendermologie.com

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Open 10.00 - 2.00pm Barbecue 12.00 - 1.00pm

SCHNAPPER THE ROCKS MORNINGTON POINT MORNINGTON PIER

MORNINGTON FORESHORE RESERVE

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POLICE STATION MORNINGTON CINEMA MORNINGTON SHIRE MORNINGTON LIBRARY TARGET

TANTI CREEK

ET TRE IN S MA

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MORNINGTON

MORNINGTON CENTRAL POST OFFICE COLES

MORNINGTON BOWLS CLUB

MORVEN MANOR RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

PHARMACY

ES PL AN AD E

THE BAYS HOSPITAL ALEXANDRA PARK

WILSON RESERVE

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FISHERMANS BEACH

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EET STR LY RK BA

EET STR LY RK BA

INFORMATION CENTRE BELEURA PRIVATE HOSPITAL

MORNINGTO FOSSIL BEACH

MORNINGTON

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FLINDERS PARK

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Kirk O’Neill, head chef at Casa de Playa.

GLASS HALF FULL? TOP UP YOUR SALES BY ADVERTISING IN

Book into the next issue Call Brooke on 0409 219 282 brooke@mpnews.com.au

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Eat & Drink

SPAIN ON Main

By Melissa Walsh Photo Yanni

T

here are not many restaurants where you can taste authentic Spanish cuisine, but Casa de Playa is one such place, with the kitchen overseen by head chef, Kirk O’Neill.

“I work alongside Spanish cuisine expert, Kylie, to create amazing Spanish tapas,” said Kirk, who has who has worked in French and Italian restaurants, and under the watchful eye of Guy Grossi during his industrious career.

Casa de Playa is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and has something for everyone with a kids menu as well.

“Our desserts include a chocolate torte, churros or crème catalan with salted caramel popcorn,” said Kirk.

Casa de Playa is at 39 Main St, Mornington.

Phone 5976 1276. www.casadeplaya.com.au

“I have been at Casa de Playa for two years after spending thirty years learning a variety of cuisines,” said Kirk. “Kylie has worked with Cisco, the owner, for over ten years and created a lot of Spanish food with him. When we work together, I tend to be more creative while she has the Spanish background.”

For Kirk, who has worked as a chef for three decades, starting as a 16-year-old and gaining experience across a range of cuisines, the Spanish-style food is fast becoming one of his favourites.

“I love working with the different flavours and using my own experience to collaborate with Kylie to create unique dishes for the restaurant,” said Kirk.

At Casa de Playa, the flavours jump out at you whether you are having a small tapas selection or a generous main meal.

“We have all the traditional dishes like paella, and a tapas selection with pulled pork cubano, lamb cutlet, croquettes, sizzling garlic prawns, and the delicious semolina crusted calamari,” said Kirk of a small selection of the menu.

“This month I did a wonderful lamb shoulder which was slow roasted with smoked yoghurt, fried chickpeas and salma. We also make incredible tacos with roasted chicken, braised lamb or vegetarian. One of our signature dishes is the popular field mushroom quesadilla.”

Kirk preparing a Casa de Playa signature dish.

August 2019

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Recipe CRISPY CHICKEN WINGS Use 2.5 kilos chicken wings

Marinade 1 bulb fresh garlic peeled 6 green chillis 2 large red chillis I bunch coriander root Tablespoon oil

Mojo sauce for the plate Three jars piquillos strained 1 teaspoon powdered coriander 1 teaspoon powdered cumin 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 100 mls lemon juice 1 litre of oil and blitz together with a stick blender

Salsa for top

Salsa for bottom

1 green capsicum 1 yellow capsicum 4 fresh jalapenos thinly sliced Quarter bunch coriander leaves

6 fresh tomatoes 8 jalapenos thinly sliced 1 tin black beans 1 red onion thinly sliced Half bunch coriander leaves

Squeeze lime juice

Method To make marinade, take fresh garlic cloves, fresh jalapenos, and coriander and blitz it all up.

Marinate chicken wings overnight.

Sous vide for three hours Make salsa for top with fresh coriander, jalapenos, green and yellow capsicum Make salsa for the bottom with fresh tomatoes, jalapenos, black beans, red onion and coriander.

For the mojo (sauce) combine coriander powder, cumin powder, garlic, and oil and lemon juice Serve salsa, top with chicken and then top salsa

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Casa de Playa 39 Main St, Mornington. Phone 5976 1276. www.casadeplaya.com.au August 2019

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PENINSULA

LIKE DUCKS TAKE TO Water

By Melissa Walsh Photos Gary Sissons

T

he Thye family are experts in hospitality, having owned the fabulous Windows on the Bay in Mordialloc for seven years before deciding on a tree change to take on the wine industry with their winery and restaurant, TRE AND in Baxter.

Three generations are involved with the boutique vineyard and restaurant which is located just five minutes down the road from their home.

“The ironic thing is we have always lived in Baxter,” said Line Thye, who runs the restaurant and makes wine. “We never expected to end up with our new adventure right next door.”

The rest for Line and her family is history as they established the home of TRE AND on the well-established Baxter Valley Estate.

With the family being from a Danish background and bringing a Scandinavian feel to the cellar door, they decided to call the restaurant TRE AND. “It translates directly from Danish to English; TRE is three while AND is duck. The TRE represents the three dams on the property as well as the three generations in our family who are involved,” said Line, whose youngest, eight-year-old Emilie, helps out with the vines when needed. Line adds, "One of the reasons for AND is our love for the family of ducks that live on the front dam and waddle out from amongst the cabernet vines when we arrive most mornings.

Line and her dad had been looking for a restaurant to run and did a google search to see what was around.

While dad runs the kitchen after working as a chef for years, the rest of the property is tended to by the family, who had to learn about wine making and how to manage a vineyard.

“We loved the look of the Baxter Valley Estate and thought it had so much potential, then realised it was right near our homes,” said Line. “Soon we became the proud owners of the lease to a beautiful little boutique vineyard.”

“Our family has never been scared of a challenge and we felt at home as soon as we came through the gates at the Baxter Valley Estate, so learning the ropes has been smooth sailing,” said Line.

“Our wines are taking off beautifully, as is our restaurant.”

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The TRE AND menu is designed to give the opportunity to match wines with your lunch. You can dine inside the cellar door or take a seat outside when the weather is fine.

“Our dishes are built around seasonal produce and what we have in our own vegie patch and on our fruit trees. We also use a lot of excellent produce from the neighbouring farms with rhubarb from our neighbour, and the freshest local fish,” said Line.

Some of the delicacies on offer include butterflied quail with pepper caramel and charred greens, plus a daily selection of cured charcuterie showcasing pickles, preserves, and sourdough bread, and grilled brisket with celeriac remoulade.

“The winery was established in 1992 by Chris and Maria Tsatsaris, who still live on the property and is an excellent example of the great varieties that the Mornington Peninsula has to offer,” said Line.

“Our wines can be purchased at the cellar door to take home with you or if you get in touch with us we can arrange free local delivery.”

TRE AND is at 165 Baxter-Tooradin Road, Baxter. www.treand.com.au

Line Thye of TRE AND.

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T R E . A N D Baxter Valley Estate

The cellar door experience at TRE AND At TRE AND, we wanted to create a place that will make you feel at home form the moment you arrive.

Spend the day with friends and family, enjoying quality food and wine.

165 Baxter - Tooradin Rd, Baxter Phone 0404 837 160 www.treand.com.au Fri - Sat 11am - 4pm Public Holidays 11am - 4pm

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August 2019

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August 2019

A SMART Move

By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni

I

Smart Brothers Brewery has nine beers on the go at the moment, with an eclectic mix of German beers including a lager and a Hefeweizen, golden pale ale, a couple of different IPA’s, and Belgian style beer.

The brainchild of local brothers, Matt and Ben Smart, the new local brewery opened only a month ago, yet has already got a regular following.

“Our coconut IPA is probably the most unusual, delivering big fruity notes of mango, passion fruit and coconut,” said Ben. “Our best bitter is our nod to a simpler time. Classic English hops deliver earthy, floral notes whilst the yeast brings fruity esters, all lying over delicious caramel malty base.”

n the middle of the Somerville shopping strip Smart Brothers Brewery beckons locals and visitors alike to come in and try thirst-quenching craft brew and delicious food, all in a relaxed atmosphere.

“We are local guys who always dreamed of owning a brewery,” said the brothers. “We live in Somerville and figured a brewery is just what the area needs. There are heaps on the other side of the peninsula but none on the Western Port side.”

For thirty-year-old Ben, who had been brewing beer for ten years, it was great to be able to bring their craft beers to the locals.

We are local guys who always dreamed of owning a brewery

“We decided to do it now rather than when we have a lot of financial commitments,” said the brothers. “We both wanted to set up a brewery one day and found the shop on Frankston-Flinders road which we thought would be perfect for the tap room. Our brewery is set up in Somerville as well in a purpose built building.”

For Ben, who is an environmental consultant three days a week and Matt, who completed his secondary teaching degree recently, the brewery is a great way to work at their passion.

“I decided to devote myself full time to the business,” said 26 year old Matt. “I am rapt that we have found the right area to do it, and we are getting a brilliant response.”

With mum, Carol, in charge, the kitchen offers a delicious tap room menu with pizzas, chips, local cheese boards, and homemade dips.

“All of our food goes with the beer perfectly and for those who would prefer a different beverage, we have local wines - red, white and bubbles - as well as some great ciders, all made on the peninsula,” the boys said. “We thought it was about time Somie got a proper craft beer option, so when we were looking for the right place to set up shop, the choice was obvious. What started as a hobby quickly became an obsession which has led to our Smart Brothers Brewery, a simple vision that came together because we are doing what we love.”

Smart Brothers Brewery is great for families as well, with kids more than welcome. There is a selection of games, great food and a beer or wine for mum and dad.

Smart Brothers Brewery 4/1071 Frankston-Flinders Road, Somerville. www.smartbrosbrewing.com

Ben and Matt Smart.

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Must try

Dishes

Chargrilled spatchcock.

Preserved lemon, olives, mograbiah and tahini cream.

Daniel’s run heirloom tomatoes with stracciatella, pistachio dukkah and tarragon.

200 day aged porterhouse.

Leek, spinach & parsley puree, pearl onions and jus.

Alatonero

Rare Hare @ Jackalope

Stumpy Gully Winery

671 Point Nepean Road, McCrae Ph 5981 1202 www.alatonero.com.au

166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North Ph 5931 2501 www.rarehare.com.au

1247 Stumpy Gully Road, Moorooduc Ph 1800 STUMPY (788 679) www.stumpygully.com.au

Lamb shanks 36 hour braised lamb shank, mixed vegetable and red wine pie, puff pastry crust, buttered baby peas and creamy mash

Tuna Poke Bowl Raw tuna, pickled vegetables, edamame beans on a bed of warm brown rice.

Free range chicken breast stuffed with black pudding and wrapped in sage and pancetta served on a bed of garlic mash with roasted pumpkin.

St Andrews Beach Brewery

The Dubliner

Panda Blairgowrie

65 Octavia Street, Mornington Ph 5975 3567 www.thedublinermornington.com

2871 Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie www.pandablairgowrie.com.au

160 Sandy Road, Fingal Ph 5988 6854 www.standrewsbeachbrewery.com.au

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CONVERSATION WITH CELEBRITY CHEF

Miguel Maestre

By Melissa Walsh

M

iguel Maestre is a chef, restaurateur, author and television presenter, best known for presenting TV programmes such as Miguel's Feast, Miguel's Tropical Kitchen and Boys Weekend, and co-hosting the lifestyle television series The Living Room. The celebrity chef and Spaniard, who started out at 21 when he moved to Scotland

1

to experience the world, made his name in Sydney working his way up through the ranks. Miguel’s passion for food and life is infectious, and he has developed a talent for incorporating Spanish ingredients and cooking styles into his modern Australian menus. He talks to Peninsula Essence about life, his family and a love of cooking that spans decades.

1. When did you decide you wanted to be a chef?

Pretty early on, because I’m not good at anything else. I decided to channel all my energy into cooking when I was young, around 18 or 19. I worked my way through kitchens in the UK, which was hard when I could speak very little English.

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2. Did you grow up around food and cooking? Did you have any mentors, or family that inspired you?

My parents have always been very influential in my life. My mum was one of 20 children. They were successful farmers in southern Spain so I grew up around food. It was an amazing environment full of healthy, delicious food. I always knew where food came from at an early age which is important. They mentored me to not just be a good cook, but to be a good person too. I’ve also been very lucky to have worked for some amazing chefs over the years.

3

3. Where did you study and do your apprenticeship?

I saved money to become a chef at a college in the UK. I’d paid for the course and started attending, but had a bad experience there.

I couldn’t speak much English so the teachers weren’t very nice.

I decided to leave the course and just work my way through kitchens, getting on-the-job experience. I worked for free for a long time.

There was a huge language barrier so I learnt through repetition.

4 5

4. Which kitchens did you work in first?

I worked in kitchens all across the UK, starting at the very bottom.

But I did my time at each place and grew as a chef.

5.

When did you come to Australia and what were your first impressions?

My first impression was “amazing”. Australia is one of the most amazing places in the world. I thought there would be kangaroos everywhere and everyone would look like Crocodile Dundee.

I arrived in Manly (Sydney) 16 years ago and couldn’t believe how different it was to Spain. continued next page...

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Miguel Maestre 6

6. What is your favourite food to cook and are there any dishes that you personally enjoy eating?

I know this is a cliché, but I love cooking big paellas at home.

It’s what everyone wants, especially when you can include amazing fresh produce like delicious Australian mushrooms that add so much flavour to a dish. I have a very diverse diet and love to cook different cuisines – from Japanese to Chinese and Italian. I mix it up a lot and everything is made from scratch.

7

7. What is family life like at home? Do the children help you cook or show any interest?

It changes every day. Sometimes they’re excited, sometimes not.

Claudia is quite curious and loves doing the little jobs - buttering her toast, cracking the eggs. My son Morgan is very interested in the eating. For Morgan, his favourite ingredient is broccoli. We all just enjoy really delicious food.

8

8. How was the experience of Dancing with The Stars?

What did you learn/take from it?

It was a great experience in many ways, and I never take anything negative from my experiences. Mentally it was hard because I wasn’t ready to leave so early. Now looking back, there was a silver lining. It showed me a new part of myself, how to deal with feelings when you lose. And I also got to meet my dance partner Megan, who is amazing, and it kick started a new fitness regime for me. I’ve already lost 15kgs. Megan is a great athlete and she made me train daily. She’s also now touring with me as we dance live at the Good Food and Wine Shows across the country. We’re great friends today and she pushed me out of my comfort zone. I feel like I’m now ready for anything.

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6

Mr Little Cider

20 Brasser Ave, Dromana open Friday - Sunday 11am - 5pm

www.mrlittlecider.com.au

Peninsula Cider

You do the monthly Trofeo Estate dinners. How has that been?

What do you like about coming to the peninsula?

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It was such a lovely experience with amazing dinners. Getting to work with the local Mornington produce is second-to-none; from the seafood to lamb to the wine.

It was amazing, as was working alongside so many professionals.

I just love regional Australia so it was a really positive experience.

10. What’s next for you career wise?

Is there anything you haven’t done that you would like to?

So many things! As a person, you want to be the best version of yourself. You never should feel like ‘you’ve made it’ – the best is always tomorrow and you have to think that way to be the best version of yourself. Never be complacent about ‘what if'; just try and be better tomorrow. A better husband, a better friend, a better presenter, a better chef. We’re about to start Series nine on The Living Room which is very rewarding. I’m excited to see my food products (Maestre Family Foods) continue to succeed. I love my job, I’m very blessed and looking forward to another year of doing what I’m doing. Tomorrow is always your best day.

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Opening hours - Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm - We have onsite car parking 71 B A R K LY S T R E E T M O R N I N G TO N, V I C 3931 (03) 5977 2020 | D H S U P P L I E S.C O M. A U

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Robert and Angele Grondin

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FORGET Paris

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photo Yanni

F

orget Paris. If you want to experience the flavours of authentic French cuisine you need go no farther than Mornington. Café Gourmand on Main Street serves delicious French food made in the traditional style by proprietors Robert and Angele Grondin. (Angele also makes mouth-watering desserts.) They cook with the love of food and take great pride in their dishes. That’s why their customers come back time and time again.

Robert hails from Les Sables d’Olonne, an 800 year-old fishing port in the Vendee Region on the western coast of France famous for it’s extensive beaches, sailing and fishing. Naturally the focus is on fresh fish, but the oysters and mussels are superb in this area.

Café Gourmand opened in Mount Eliza 11 years ago. Its client base was solid and consistent from the beginning. When renovations meant moving the business to Mornington – their regular customers followed. When they relocated to Main Street many new customers discovered the delights of Robert and Angele’s cooking. Their café adds a new flavour to the international food scene in Mornington.

“The key ingredients in French cuisine are butter and wine, everything else is second,” Robert says. Some of the dishes they make at Café Gourmand take days to prepare, as the dishes must ‘mature’ to reach their optimum flavour.

The key ingredients in French cuisine are butter and wine, everything else is second

Angele comes from Alsace in the far northeast where Germanic influences make for a completely different kind of cuisine. It’s famous for its wine and cheese, but their French saurkraut is unique regional specialty. Both The Vendee and Alsace have delicious food, but Angele says, “Wherever you eat in France, you’ll eat well because we love food.”

Cooking is an important part of life in France. Slow cooking and slow eating are part of French culture. “All French people love to cook. We sit down and spend all afternoon eating and drinking. We eat as a social occasion,” she adds.

And this is how the couple approach running their café. They come out of the kitchen to meet their customers for a chat and make sure they are enjoying their meal. Robert has perfect confidence in the response because he knows his wife is an excellent cook. In fact, they both are. They take the time to make their food perfection.

Angele’s recipes are mostly her own, but some were passed down from her mother as were some of the dishes Robert brings to the table. Between them, Robert and Angele deliver the very best of classic French country cuisine served up in their cosy cafe.

Café Gourmand is open for breakfast and lunch but, for quite some time, Robert has hinted at opening for dinner. Their regular customers are waiting with baited breath.

When discussion of the menu came up, it seemed clear the time is near. “Our mains will be duck confit, poulet chasseur, pork belly with prune sauce, lentil de Dijon, cassoulet, scallop and fish tarine,” Angele says.

Imagine this food partnered with fine wine and possibly topped off with fondant au chocolat, parfait, mousse or exquisite cheese. Is your mouth watering yet? It should be. This is some of the finest French food outside of France. Bon apetit!

Café Gourmand, 328 Main Street, Mornington, 5973 5677

August 2019

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Puzzle

Corner

ACROSS 1. Salute 5. Rack up 9. Under water 12. Show of courage 16. Visual, ... or tactile 17. Wake-up bell 18. Vanish gradually (4,3) 20. Beholden 22. Chimneys 23. Small pod vegetables (5,4) 24. Bishop's chair 26. Twins zodiac sign 27. Futuristic fiction (3-2) 28. Distribution 31. Run after 32. Long-winded speaker 34. Stand-in monarch 36. US anti-crime agency (1,1,1) 37. Thumbing ride 40. Nursery rhyme, Polly Put ...

Kettle On 42. Reclines 43. Fable writer 45. Sycophant (6-2) 47. Hayseed 49. Maintains 50. Tropic Thunder's Robert ... (6,2) 52. Leading lady, prima ...

54. Couturier, Yves ... Laurent 55. Chilean mountains 56. Lengthy movie 58. Just right 59. Gangsters, Bonnie & ...

60. Hyphen 61. Rich soil 62. Of kidneys 63. Egyptian cobras 64. Funeral vehicle 67. Scalp parasites 68. Oh no!

69. Good Friday period 72. Mr & ...

74. Senator 78. Archaic 79. Poem 80. Sphere 81. Remote, off the beaten ...

82. Follows text 85. Say 87. Baby grand

88. Offensive youths 90. Insane, ... mentis (3,6) 91. Yacht pole 92. American air force (1,1,1,1) 93. Jewish pastor 94. Suspect's defence 95. Raised rows of knitting 96. Furnace 97. Tourist 100. Jealousy 102. Horse fodder 103. Tiny birds 104. Nightclub 106. Gloat 108. Belonging to us 109. Tavern 110. Abdominal muscles 112. Travelled 116. Global navigation system (1,1,1) 118. Actually 120. ... & papa 121. Former Australian PM, Kevin ...

123. Remained 125. Welsh emblem 126. Leftover bit 127. Depend 128. Started golf match, ... off 129. Military store 130. Twelve-monthly, per ...

131. Swindle 132. Unzipped 134. Summonses 136. Inflammable liquid 139. Fabric fold (3,5) 141. Appreciates 142. Alaskan politician, ... Palin 144. Circuit board item 146. Frenzied 147. Played again 148. Yearning 149. Directs (operation) 151. Coach 152. Scrape together (leaves) (4,2) 155. Tantalises 158. Dried coconut kernels 159. Echo 162. Pinch (nose) 164. Expression of rebuke (3-3) 165. Local person 166. Plateau 170. Artist, ... Picasso 171. Escapologist, Harry ...

172. Paler 173. Sudden overwhelming anxiety 174. Deadly sin 175. Persecutes (5,2) 176. Affirmative replies 177. Elected 178. Mice

DOWN 1. Ramblers' well trodden routes 2. Furthermore (2,8) 3. Absolute (disaster) 4. Endeavours 5. Document attachments 6. Keenly excited 7. Overfill 8. Wield (sword) 9. Plant, ... vera 10. Suffers 11. Health inspector's concern 12. Nightly ritual, ... story 13. Distressing problems 14. Plentifully 15. Available at premises (2-4) 19. Hot drink dispensers 21. Fibreglass insulation strip 25. Roman LXXX 26. Stuffs oneself 29. Comperes 30. Lower leg bracelet 33. Every second year 35. Decency 36. Temperature scale 38. Enforces solitude on 39. French emperor, ...

Bonaparte 41. Minor quakes (5,7) 42. Director, ... Howard 44. Dolphin group 46. Big dipper, ... coaster 48. Deplore 49. Massages 51. Stoat-like animal 53. Unrevealed suitor, secret ...

55. Electric socket converter 57. Automobile 60. ... & don'ts 65. Magician's chant 66. Fume-filled 70. Take in (orphan)

71. Stubbornly 73. Wide Mexican hats 75. Commotion (2-2) 76. Blackmail 77. Singing voice 78. Getting 83. Asian fruit, star ...

84. Drawbacks 85. Increased 86. Russian rulers 89. California fracture line, ...

Andreas Fault 91. British award (1,1,1) 92. Unkindly 96. Edible organs 98. Dispute, call ... question 99. Republic of Ireland 101. Beer-fermenting organism 103. Caused (havoc) 105. Lubricant container (3,4) 107. Logos 111. Article authorship (2-4) 112. Flowering quince 113. Sprinters 114. Adulates 115. Sot 117. Persuades mentally, ... up 119. Bottle top 120. Ponder 122. Brown sugar type 124. Product promos 132. Festering sores 133. Beaver-built barrier 134. More rainy 135. Spittle 137. Decimal number 138. Dodged 140. Disliking foreigners 141. Rock-clinging mollusc 143. Celebrity chef, ...

Blumenthal 145. Mats & napkins (5,5) 150. Reappear (2-6) 153. Food preparing room 154. S American republic 156. Performed (role) 157. Teaspoon 158. Occur (4,2) 160. Actor, ... McGregor 161. Canned fish 163. Raps 166. Nervous twitches 167. Prejudice 168. Tightly-curled hairstyle 169. Loose earth

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August 2019

827-829 Nepean Hwy, Mornington VIC

Ph: 1300 VILL GLEN (1300 845 545)

See page 91 for solution August 2019

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Peninsula’s MUST-TRY COCKTAILS HOT BUTTERED RUM

MR. DARCY

PEPPERMINT PATTY

This drink is the perfect winter-warmer. Made with our secret butter mix full of spices, sugar & warmth, heated & topped with spiced rum.

What's better than the perfect man?

The perfect cocktail!

White chocolate & passionfruit martini goodness.

Creme de cacao, MOFO hot chocolate & topped off with whipped cream.

THE MILBRI 1183 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud Ph 5982 3901 themilbri.com.au

PANDA BLAIRGOWRIE 2871 Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie Ph 5988 8261 pandablairgowrie.com.au

THE WINEY COW 39A Main Street, Mornington Ph 5976 4018 thewineycow.com.au

FRENCH MARTINI

A WARM HUG

GOD'S ESPRESSO MARTINI

Grey goose vodka, chambord liquor & pineapple juice with a sour strap garnish.

Local mulled wine combined with Bass & Flinders gin 10 wild & spicy with warming aroma's and flavours.

Orange, cassia, clove.

A match made on the Peninsula.

Remy brandy, kahlua, dark & white creme de cacao & a fresh shot of coffee.

GODS KITCHEN 53 Barkly Street, Mornington Ph 5976 8666 godskitchen.com.au

BASS & FLINDERS DISTILLERY 40 Collins Road, Dromana Ph 5989 3154 bassandflindersdistillery.com

GODS KITCHEN 53 Barkly Street, Mornington Ph 5976 8666 godskitchen.com.au

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August August2019 2019

on

Mornington

Mornington is a seaside town on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia, located 57 km south-east of Melbourne's central business district. Mornington has an area of 13.5 km². Population is 23,989 (2016).

• Mornington's original post office, built in 1863 at the corner of Main Street and The Esplanade, now operates as a museum displaying old telecommunications equipment and items relating to local history. It is the site of the Mornington and District Historical Society. On the other side of Main Street is the old court house (built in 1860) and the former police station lock-up (1862).

• An earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale, associated with the nearby Selwyn Fault, struck the town on 2 September 1932.

No injuries or major damage were reported.

• The Mornington Pier was built in 1857, and continues to be extended and improved.

• Considered to be one of the worst boating accidents in Victoria's history, the Mornington Football Club Disaster occurred on the night of May 21st 1892 near Pelican Point just north of Mornington. Fifteen members of the Mornington Football Team drowned. They set out earlier that day on the "Process", owned and skippered by Charles Hooper, to play a match at Mordialloc. The remainder of the team travelled by train.

• Mornington has a long history dating back to 1802 when explorer Matthew Flinders landed at Schnapper Point. These days, Schnapper Point provides a boat-launching ramp, jetty, yacht club, restaurant and scenic walks providing scenic views along the coast.

• The first cruise ship visited Mornington township on February 24, 2015, after P&O added the Mornington Peninsula to its itinerary. The Pacific Pearl with 1800 residents on board docked early on the Tuesday morning, part of a new itinerary for P&O Cruises.

• The median house price in Mornington is $776,500.

• Mornington has a number of beaches, some of which are located at the base of rocky cliffs which dominate part of the coastline in this area. Along the eastern side of Schnapper Point is the sheltered Mothers Beach and Scout Beach, while Shire Hall Beach and Mills Beach are located further east along the coast. Around a kilometre south of Schnapper Point is Fishermans Beach which ends at the scenic rocky outcrop of Linley Point where there are boat ramps and scenic viewing spots along the coast.

• Mornington Central Shopping Centre is built on the site of the former Mornington railway station.

• Every Wednesday Mornington Main Street comes alive with the street market. Colourful stalls selling everything from hand made soaps, organic skin care, fresh produce and sensational home made fudge are to be found.

• Fossil beach is a significant fossil site with evidence of Australia’s sea life from 10 to 15 million years ago. The fossils were discovered in 1854 in the limestone cliffs.

Most of the fossils have now been removed.

Access is via the track from the cliff path near Bentons Road (near the picnic area).

• The Mornington Rose Gardens has over 4000 roses planted in 86 beds and is surrounded by a border of native Australian trees and shrubs. The concept for the Mornington Rose Gardens was the brainchild of a local businessman Don Gordon who was inspired by the rose garden in Benalla that was situated next to the art gallery.

Coffee Safari

Freshly brewed coffee is a must-have for weekends away and the Mornington Peninsula is second to none with great coffee haunts around the towns.

Here are just a few to check out when you head down to this beautiful part of the world.

Flower Girls 66 MAIN STREET

As the name suggests, Flower Girls is a florist, come coffee shop. Here, you will feel like you are sitting in a Parisian café surrounded by fresh flowers.

The Filling Station 69/90 MAIN STREET

Serving breakfast & lunch it has a gluten-free, vegetarian & vegan optioned menu with simply oustanding coffee!

Mercetta

115 MAIN STREET Indoor or alfresco dining out the front or in the back courtyard. Mercetta is friendly, with a great vibe and excellent range of coffee.

Blackbird Cafe 2D EMPIRE STREET

Delightful and intimate café with excellent coffee and home made savoury and sweet treats. Indoor and outdoor seating.

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What to do Whether it’s wandering down the main street with its cosmopolitan vibe, alfresco cafes lining the paved streets and vast bay views, or losing yourself in the many art galleries and boutique book shops, Mornington is a colourful hub of arts and entertainment.

Beaches, wineries, shopping, arts and antiques are all at your fingertips in a township that dates back to 1856.

The Mornington Racecourse has a history of 100 years on the current site and continues to cater to crowds who enjoy the annual Mornington Cup race days.

Photography: Yanni

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August 2019

on

Mornington

FRAGMENTS FROM

the Past

Story & photos by Keith Platt

T

aking a close look at the remains of a cement works at Mornington can easily turn into probing ancient geological formations and life forms.

Fossil Beach, which lies at the end of a short path off the Esplanade just north of Bentons Road, has long interested historians and geologists, but an insight into its history is now revealed to the public with new interpretive signs.

The four signs tell the story of Aboriginal use of the area, the value of clay deposits discovered in the mid-1800s for making cement, and the fossils embedded in the clay dating back five to fifteen million years.

Visiting Fossil Beach with Ian Stevenson, convenor of the Fossil Beach Interest Group, and Mornington Peninsula Shire’s natural systems project officer, Gerard Cook provides a running commentary and descriptions of ancient and relatively modern history of Fossil Beach and how it may have appeared millions of years ago.

They are quick to add that much of the ancient history of the rocky beach and scrub-covered foreshore is pure conjecture, although there’s no doubting the fossil evidence – mainly shells, corals, tiny bones and teeth – which can be dated.

One of the most striking things about the shells pointed out by Stevenson and Cook is their familiarity. While some are extinct, others resemble shells found on the seashore today, although their colours are faded. Some of the ancient shells are now only found in warmer waters.

When asked why the fossils are on the surface, Stevenson points seawards and simply replies: “Selwyn Fault.”

It seems the clay in which the 5-15 million-year-old fossils are found was brought to the surface along this small section of beach by the Selwyn Fault and the adjoining Fossil Beach fault. This area is seismically active and estimated to be capable of producing 7.5 magnitude earthquakes. continued next page...

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on

Mornington

The clay, which is so interesting to geologists, caught the eye of government geological surveyor Alfred Selwyn in the early 1850s and, in 1862, James Robertson.

Robertson, an architect living in St Kilda, saw the commercial possibilities of the clay and the harder limestone nodules, called septaria, which could be used to make cement.

The septaria at Fossil Beach was thought suitable for cement, especially cement that could set under water, or Roman cement.

The resulting cement works – the first in Victoria – operated for about two years, eventually failing during a recession in Melbourne and lack of raw material in commercial quantities.

The remains of the cement works were the scene of an archeological dig in 1968, headed by University of Melbourne historian William (Bill) Culican. The dig commissioned by the then Shire of Mornington was credited as being the first archaeological dig of an industrial site in Australia.

on Saturday 4 May, as part of the National Trust Heritage festival.

Stevenson, who spoke at that ceremony, said the remains of the cement works and the clay deposits at Fossil Beach had been recognised as being of state importance.

“Protection of the significant fossil beds is critical for awareness raising, but also conservation for future generations,” he said.

He said Museum Victoria was still conducting scientific research into the fossil layers and examples from Fossil Beach were displayed at the museum.

Stevenson said some concerns had been raised about fossils being dug up and removed from the beach and that “protection of all site values is paramount”.

Members of Culican’s family attended the unveiling of the new signs

For more information about the Fossil Beach Interest Group email Gerard Cook at gerard.cook@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Gerard Cook and Ian Stevenson are involved in educating the public about the historical treasures found at Fossil Beach, Mornington.

Ian Stevenson and Gerard Cook with one of the kilns built to make cement in the 1860s.

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or visit mornpen.vic.gov.au and search “Fossil Beach”.

Fossils preserved in muddy marine layers exposed at Fossil Beach.

SUN 2019

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August 2019

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Mornington

David DavidMorris MorrisMP MP

Victoria’s Victoria’sBathing BathingBoxes Boxesat atRisk Risk The bathing boxes that decorate

The bathing boxes beaches that decorate many Victorian aremany Victorian beaches are much loved by much loved by locals and tourists alike,and buttourists underalike, a new locals butState under a Government plan they’ll soon soon be new State Government plan they’ll gone.

The Draft Marine and Coast be gone. The Draft Marine and Coast Policy report released earlier this Policy released earlier this month monthreport

by Victoria’s Environment by Victoria’s Environment Minister states Minister states that bathing boxes that are “to be removed/ arebathing “to be boxes removed/relocated as the opportunity arises.” arises.” relocated as the opportunity

Andit’s it’snotnot bathing boxes And justjust bathing boxes that that are to be removed from are to be removed from the foreshore. the foreshore. The draft policy The draft policy any proposes thatproposes any usethat that is use not that is notrelated directly related to coastal directly to coastal activity will go.will That includes all all private activity go. That includes private infrastructure, jetties, beach infrastructure, jetties, beach access access paths, bathing boxes,huts and paths, bathing boxes, and fishing fishing huts as well as community as well as community and commercial and commercial facilities.

For facilities.

For Mornington, that would Mornington, that would mean mean the removal of the kioskatat the removal of the kiosk Mornington Pier, the closure Mornington Pier, andand the closure of of “The Rocks” restaurant.

“The Rocks” restaurant.

The much loved Mornington Park The much loved Mornington Parkas would also be under threat, would be under threat, as its use is its usealso is considered “unsuitable” for the location on crown land. considered “unsuitable” for the location The impact will also be will felt also on be on crown land.

The impact the Senior Citizen’s Centre in in the felt on the Senior Citizen’s Centre the Park, andthe theMornington Mornington Bowling Park, and Bowling Club Club next door. next door.

It is important that we protect our beaches andthat ourwe magnificent It is important protect our Port Philip Bay generations, beaches andfor ourfuture magnificent Port but that mean we need Philip Baydoesn’t for future generations, but to lock them up and leave them. that doesn’t mean we need to lock Cafes, kiosks, restaurants and them up and leave them.

Cafes, kiosks, bathing boxes are all important restaurants and bathing boxes are parts of enjoying the beach.

It all doesn’t be an “either/ importanthave parts to of enjoying the beach. It or” choice. is doesn’t haveThe to begovernment an “either/or” choice. suggesting thatis it’s not possible The government suggesting that to enjoy the coast and protect the it’s not possibleattothe enjoy the coast environment same time,and protect theisenvironment at the same and that complete nonsense. time, and that is complete nonsense.

The draft policy puts forward The draft policy puts forward many many sensible ideas to care for sensible to care for our coast our coastideas but unfortunately the ban bathing boxes, and but on unfortunately the ban kiosks on bathing restaurants notrestaurants one of them. boxes, kiosksisand is not Not are Not these oneonly of them. onlyfacilities are thesemuch facilities loved, manymany of the boxes areare much loved, of the boxes also heritage listed after being also heritage after being added to added to the listed Victorian Heritage the Victorian Heritage Register by the Register by the Heritage Council ofHeritage VictoriaCouncil in Julyof 2018.

VictoriaThis in July 2018. plan destroy notnot just This would plan would destroy justan an important partofofVictoria’s Victoria’s important part builtbuilt heritage, heritage, but also an important but also an important part ofheritage.

Victoria’s part of Victoria’s cultural cultural heritage.

Submissions on the draft can be made until 15th August, and full Submissions on the draft can beamade copy of the policyand is aavailable atthe until 15th August, full copy of https://engage.vic.gov.au/draftpolicy is available at https://engage.vic. marine-and-coastal-policy. gov.au/draft-marine-and-coastal-policy.

If you want to keep enjoying our If you wantmake to keep enjoying beaches, sure your our voice is heard! beaches, make sure your voice is heard!

MAINTAIN AND PROTECT MORNINGTON’S ICONIC BEACH BOXES Yes, I support protecting Mornington’s iconic beach boxes and reject the government’s draft plan.

First Name

“The Government’s plan to remove Victoria’s iconic beach boxes would destroy not just an important part of Victoria’s built heritage, but also an important part of Victoria’s cultural heritage.”

- David Morris MP

Surname

Address

Phone

Mobile

Email

Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey.

Please cut out this survey and free post to David Morris MP, Member for Mornington, Reply Paid 2000, Mornington Vic 3931.

Alternatively, you can send a picture of your survey to 0484 240 575 or, complete my issues survey online at www.davidmorris.org.au/IssuesSurvey

DAVID MORRIS MP Member for Mornington

Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications Budget

E ssence

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August 2019

Ph: 03 5975 4799 Fax: 5975 5175 Reply Paid 2000 MORNINGTON 3931

w w w. d a v i d m o r r i s . o r g . a u

David.Morris@parliament.vic.gov.au

August 2019

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Wednesday Wednesday Market Market Personalities Personalities Michael the fruiterer has been attending the Wednesday Michael theover fruiterer has been Wednesday Market for 10 years and inattending rain, hailthe or shine, he Marketyou for over 10 years and in rain, hail or shine, heat brings his freshest grown produce from his farm brings you his freshest grown produce from his farm Tatura. His property is 28 acres, almost half of whichat is Tatura.

His property is 28 acres, almost half of which is made up of green houses and the other half fruit made up of green houses and the other half fruit orchards.

Famous for his amazing collection of fresh orchards. from Famous his amazing collection fresh from Truss, RedofRussians tomatoes juicyfor varieties Truss,including Red Russians tomatoes juicy varieties to a rangefrom of delicious cherry from tomatoes Yellow to a range of delicious cherry tomatoes including Yellow and Black Russians. “My new season Apples, peaches, and Black Russians. season Apples, peaches, apricots and cherries “My are new the best in town”, smiled Michael, and “andcherries I only love bring customers the best apricots are to the bestmy in town”, smiled produce in season youcustomers like a bit ofthe spice, Michael, “and I onlyeach love week”. to bringIfmy best his fresh in Chilies areeach a must for your next produce season week”.

If you likedish. a bit of spice, his fresh Chilies are a must for your next dish.

Viv from 'Crafty Cards' card making passion began about 10 years ago when'Crafty she made some friends and couldn't I Viv from Cards' cardfor making passion beganstop! about“Before 10 years knewwhen it, there too many cardsand to store so Istop! decided to I ago shewere madefar some for friends couldn't “Before apply to the Main Street Market where I have become a regular knew it, there were far too many cards to store so I decided to stallholder the Street past 8 Market years”, where said Viv. “My become aim is toamake cards apply to thefor Main I have regular for every occasion with a fun, creative point of difference”.

She stallholder for the past 8 years”, said Viv. “My aim is to make cards the treasures collects, for example creates for everymemories occasion from with a fun, creativeshe point of difference”.

She her popular "Broome Beach Babies" cardsshe arecollects, shells collected fromher from the treasures for example creates memories Broome with a watercolour background.

Passers-by often break popular "Broome Beach Babies" cards are shells collected from out in a hearty laugh as they read the funny quotes on her comedy Broome with a watercolour background. Passers-by often break cards which adds to their experience of a great day at our market. out in a hearty laugh as they read the funny quotes on her comedy cards which adds to their experience of a great day at our market.

Mark from Little Wondrous Monkeys Jewellery presents two classically beautiful and completely unique styles. “The Sterling Silver range features Mark from Little Wondrous Monkeys Jewellery presents two classically a design hand cut out of a flat piece of silver”, said Mark. “I then place a beautiful and completely unique styles. “The Sterling Silver range features magnificent gemstone behind the design so you can wear the pendant or a design hand cut out of a flat piece of silver”, said Mark. “I then place a ring with the design showing and the gemstone 'peeking' through, or you magnificent gemstone behind the design so you can wear the pendant or can reverse it and wear it as a purely wondrous gemstone”. All pieces are ring with the design showing and the gemstone 'peeking' through, or you hand-cut using a Piercing saw with a blade that is .2mm wide. The 'Rusted' can reverse it and wear it as a purely wondrous gemstone”. All pieces are mixed metal series features Copper, Brass, German Silver and Iron that is hand-cut using a Piercing saw with a blade that is .2mm wide. The 'Rusted' cut and welded together and then 'torch painting' is used to change the mixed metal features Copper, Brass, German and Ironnatural that is colours of theseries metals.

Slightly resembling steak punk Silver its appealing cut and welded together and then 'torch painting' is used to change the tones suit any age and any skin tone. New to the market, Mark has already colours the metals.

Slightly steak punk its appealing natural made a of name for himself with resembling our Mornington locals. tones suit any age and any skin tone. New to the market, Mark has already made a name for himself with our Mornington locals.

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SHOP LOCAL SHOP LOCAL & & WIN WIN During August simply spend $30 or more in any Main Street Mornington business & go into the draw to Win 1 of 10, $50 Main Street Mornington EFTPOS cards.

Pick up entry card instore.

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The Be Fort auty of Wine Framewo Burlesqu e• rk Travel lers • The Ca Pushing • If It ll Aint of the Mu the Bound Baroq ue Do sic • Ma aries • He n’t Fix n Up and r Ne It • He Ge xt Wa nry Ho t Waxed ve is Wa ward’s • The iting • A Heart for Journ Legacy Kate Wa Helping • ey • Mason’s Missi Dance with Focus of Art Liv lks Tall Depth • on Mo es On Glassblowi on • Style File • unt Eliz Home and A Long Way from ng in the Cairo • Movin Garden • Family • a The True Moving In g In the Right Meaning Direction of Hospitalitythe Right Direction • When Footy • Focus on Red Hill Came to the Penin sula

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Real Estate

By Melissa Walsh Photos Gary Sissons

I

f you’re an inner-city dweller, apartment living is the norm, offering low maintenance, convenient accommodation for a busy lifestyle. However, it seems that the high-rise life is not only for Melbournites as Mornington sees the appearance of

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IT'S ALL ABOUT luxury apartment complexes being built along Main Street, and Esplanade. Peninsula Essence talks to Abode Real Estate Agent, Russell Murphy, about the trend in Mornington towards apartment living.

Real Estate

Lifestyle “Apart from Doc which was built nearly ten years ago, and then Sutton Grange, Miramar and Parkvue are setting new ground in apartment living,� said Mr Murphy, who sold Miramar Mornington. continued next page...

Russell Murphy of Abode Real Estate Mt Martha.

August 2019

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Mirimar Apartments Mornington

“The idea behind building Miramar came about after the site had lain dormant for many years. It is a 1700 square metre block with stunning views so it would have been a waste to simply put a single home on it.”

want to go to retirement living but knew that had to scale down.

This way they still keep the trendy lifestyle but don’t have the upkeep of the big house. Our youngest purchaser was in her 20s and this was her first property.”

Miramar Mornington began development in 2016 and finished in April this year.

Miramar is three levels of apartments with a rooftop garden that is a communal area and looks out over the bay towards the city skyline.

“All of the apartments were sold off the plan,” said Mr Murphy of the 28 apartment complex which is a mixture of five one bedroom, 14 two bedroom and 9 three bedroom apartments.

“The apartments sold from $625,000 to $1.5 million.”

“In the apartments you get a full package, offering Miele appliances, European laundry, balcony access, top quality fixtures and fittings, car park and full security system,” said Mr Murphy. “You can wander outside and have a coffee, a meal, go to the cinema, walk to the park or beach and discover a lifestyle you didn’t know was possible.”

While Mornington has not been conventionally apartment based, with the majority of residential real estate in homes or units, Mr Murphy says they are seeing a trend towards more complex living.

Apartment style living in Mornington is so sought after

“Local people are buying these apartments.

When we launched three years ago we didn’t know what the market would be. We suspected maybe city people would be our market but they are all local people from Mornington, Mt Eliza, Frankston, Mt Martha and Somerville - Tyabb areas. They have owned the traditional quarter acre block, raised the family and now want to scale down but still live amongst the excitement of Mornington.”

Miramar offers a great lifestyle for people who can now think about retiring or young ones starting out.

“We have people in their 80s who have bought from us as they didn’t

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Apartment style living in Mornington is so sought after; Mr Murphy is launching another development in August when apartments can be bought off the plan.

“This apartment complex is at the other end of Main Street, called Barrett, which is between Barrett Lane and Main Street. Construction will start before Christmas, with a view to being completed close to Christmas 2020,” said Mr Murphy. “Parkvue and Miramar have proved we have a market for apartment living. The new units will be priced from $500,000 to $950,000 and ideal for the investor or owneroccupier looking for a lifestyle change.” www.abodemtmartha.com.au

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August 2019

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History

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By Peter McCullough

IT'S A GRAND OLD PUB

T

he Grand Hotel has now dominated the Mornington skyline for 130 years. Its colourful history will be brought to you over two editions of Peninsula Essence.

The Early Days

When the Mt. Eliza Roads Board, formed in 1860, proposed the creation of a shire on the grounds that 700 pounds would be available from licence fees for road making, it indicated that the licensees would consist of wood cutters (300 in number), lime burners (150), fishermen (50), and publicans (200). Two hundred hotels on the peninsula when the largest town, Mornington, recorded only 436 permanent residents in 1860? It seems a lot.

It is interesting to note, however, that many of the early hotels still exist. The Tanti, on the corner of Tanti Avenue and the Nepean Highway, was the first licensed hotel in the township of Mornington, and is shown on maps prepared in 1854. A map from November, 1858 shows the Schnapper Point Hotel on the Esplanade; in 1876 it was renamed the Royal Hotel. The same map shows the Mornington Hotel on the corner of Wilsons Road and Brewery Road. It had its own brewery in Brewery Road, later Nunns Road.

In 1868 the licence was transferred to a new Mornington Hotel, complete with a decorative parapet of filials and urns, located in Main Street. In 1877 it was renamed the Cricketers' Arms Hotel.

In 1860 a licence was issued for the Marine Hotel on the Esplanade; in 1873 J. Kirkpatrick took up the licence and it has been Kirkpatricks Hotel ever since. W. E. Pentecost became the licensee of a new hotel (Pentecost's Hotel) in Tanti Road in 1864; in 1872 it became the Foresters' Arms Hotel. Around 1860 a man named Scott opened a hostelry named Sailors' Hotel near Shire Hall Beach. Although the Tanti, Royal and Kirkpatricks Hotels can still be found, the Foresters' Arms and Sailors' Hotels have long since disappeared.

Enter The Grand In the 1880's opulent coffee palaces sprang up across Australia in response to the temperance movement which sought to promote alcohol-free hotels. Accordingly, in 1889 Cornelius Crowley commissioned prominent architect William Pitt to build the Grand Coffee Palace in Mornington. It must have been a hectic time for Pitt: he had just completed the Princess Theatre (1886), which continued next page...

Left: The Grand Hotel, 1892.

Below left: William Pitt, architect of the Grand Coffee Palace.

Below right: The Federal Hotel in Melbourne, designed by Pitt, on the corner of King and Collins Streets. It was demolished in 1972.

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featured Australia's first sliding or retractable roof and ceiling, the St. Kilda Town Hall (1887) and the Olderfleet Building (1888) in Collins Street. Nearby he was building the Rialto (1889) as well as the Brunswick Town Hall (also 1889). While these samples of his work remain, others have been lost: the Melbourne Coffee Palace (1879) and the splendid Federal Coffee Palace (1888), subsequently the Federal Hotel, on the corner of King and Collins Streets, which was demolished as recently as 1972. His designs extended beyond iconic buildings and ranged from factories such as Bryant and May (1895) and the Victoria Brewery (1896) to the Queens Bridge across the Yarra (1892). His great talent notwithstanding, he was an unabashed Collingwood supporter and went so far as to design a grandstand, free of charge, at Victoria Park (1892).

Built in a prominent position in Main Street on the site of Mornington's first hay and corn store and close to the railway station which started receiving visitors in 1889, the Grand Coffee Palace was a two story brick building with three bays and a central tower. Originally an arched carriageway went through to the rear with Swift's stables on the west side and accommodation built over the stables. It reflected a boom-style enthusiasm for an expanding tourist market. However its life could have been short as The Argus reported on 10 January, 1890 that “...the recently erected Grand Coffee Palace was saved from fire when two shops in Main Street were completely destroyed by the blaze.�

Below: Mornington Railway Station, circa 1918.

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Cornelius Crowley, who had ordered the construction of the Grand Coffee Palace, had earlier become the licensee of the Cricketers' Arms next door. In 1892, soon after the completion of the Grand, he transferred the licence from the Cricketers' Arms and renamed his new building the Grand Hotel. The Cricketers' Arms building then became a car hire and coach depot before being replaced by a garage run by Fred Taylor and Reg Ritchie after they returned from World War One. (Reg was the grandson of Thomas Ritchie who had started a grocery business in Frankston which was the forerunner to the present chain of supermarkets).The building became a furniture store in the late 1940's and it has since housed various businesses over the years. Today it is occupied by Cotton On clothing after many years as the home of Big Chair Living.

The Grand's Early Years Cornelius Crowley owned the Grand Hotel from its construction until World War One with various licensees managing the business during that time. Another threat occurred early one Sunday morning in 1892 when a fire broke out in one of the upstairs rooms. Fortunately it was discovered by one of the occupants who summoned assistance. The Church of England bell was rung to sound the alarm and the startled residents quickly rallied. The fire was contained thereby saving the Grand from destruction.

Above: The Grand Hotel, with the former Cricketers Arms Hotel on its left.

Below: Mornington Motor Garage, formerly the Cricketers Arms Hotel, circa 1920.

Bottom: Day trippers to Mornington arrive by steamer.

On 11 July, 1903 the Mornington Standard reported on another mishap: “An appalling flash of lightning accompanied almost simultaneously by thunder struck Mornington on Saturday. The Grand Hotel, which fortunately had a lightning conductor, had a narrow escape from destruction, the tower of which is a prominent object. The lightning removed the conducting rod entirely out of its position, and at the bottom of it, on the ground, it loosened and cracked the asphalt.”

Meanwhile licensees came and went: the licence was transferred to Cecilia Powell (1899), Mrs. S. A. Strong (1902), Owen Connors (1903), James Bowman (1904), and to John Chant (1906) who disposed of the business in May, 1907 to Mary Goldberg for 450 pounds ($900). Six months later Louis Harrison bought the goodwill and effects.

In the early years of the twentieth century Mornington boomed as a picnic destination. A report on the annual Victorian Post and Telegraph Picnic of 1903 gives some idea of the impact of public gatherings at the park and on the township. The event required five special trains to transport the picnickers to Mornington. As well as the Post Office Military Band, the Post and Telegraph Musical Society offered some selections and the “young people” danced to Goodall's band. A merry-go-round and races were provided for the children and there was a programme of sport. The official party retired to the Grand Hotel for lunch, while some of the picnickers took the opportunity to fish from the jetty or go periwinkling on the shore. continued next page...

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Aove: The bridge leading to Frankston Sea Baths, 1888.

Above: Mornington Football Team - Runners-up to Hastings - Season 1914 Back Row: W. Hailes (Trainer) (kneeling), Lou Harrison (President), J. Connop, R. Dixon, L. C. Miller, W. Male, S. Sherlock, A. Thompson, W. Sanderson, J. Connell, G. W. Wilson, B. Daw, M. Garlick (Trainer) Centre Row: G. Harrison, H. Golds, A. Taylor, R. Bates, S. Garlick, J. Hutchins.

Front Row: L. Garlick, S. Pelling, T. Harrison, L. Harrsion (Captain), P. E. Olsen, E. Byrne, Geo. Sanderson (Kneeling).

The Harrisons After the revolving door of previous licensees, the arrival of the Harrison family brought some stability. Lou Harrison had worked for quite a few years as a company accountant and had held the licence of the Motor Club Hotel in Cranbourne prior to moving to Mornington; it would be fair to say that he possessed more business acumen than his predecessors.

Mornington continued to be a popular place for holiday-makers and day-trippers and in 1907 the Mornington Standard reported that the Woodworkers had travelled down on the Hygeia paddle steamer for their annual sea trip and picnic. It stated that: “...the enthusiasts laid themselves out for a thoroughly enjoyable time, and succeeded admirably. The official dinner was held at the Grand Hotel.” The extent to which the Woodworkers “laid themselves out”is left to the imagination!

Drainage was obviously a problem at the Grand Hotel, but Lou Harrison was across it. In a letter to the editor of the Mornington Standard on 13 July, 1912 he wrote “After perusing the issue of your valuable paper, in reporting the proceedings of the Mornington council meeting, I notice that when discussing the engineer's report concerning the drain near the railway station, Cr. Grover is reported to state 'That the owner of the property from which the drainage

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came should be compelled to construct a septic pit.' I may state that I think I have one of the best drains in the shire, having at my own expense taken up the original drain in case any blockage should occur, and constructed traps, built of brick and cement, so as to cleanse themselves, and have only to remove red gum covers at short distances to ascertain where any blockage exists. I always use plenty of phenyl, buying nothing less than a cask ranging from 36 to 40 gallons (160-180 litres) at a time, which when diluted will appeal to any reasonable person as to what quantity is used.” Those of us who grew up in the era when the nightman went about his homely task will recall the use of phenyl and its odour.

In October of the following year J. W. Stephens, Inspector of Nuisances, and the Health Officer, Dr. J. L. Edgeworth Somers, reported on the drain at the rear of the Grand: “The proprietor has endeavoured to minimize the evil by plentifully sprinkling with lime, and promised to do all he could in the matter.”

Considering the hotel's on-going problems with drainage, there is a degree of irony in the fact that, a few years later, E.J.Summers established his plumbing business in the Railway Reserve at the rear of the Grand.

Lou Harrison was very involved in the community, particularly with the local Mornington Football Club of which he was President

Above: Main Street Mornington, circa 1918.

for three years including the 1915 premiership year. He was also President of the Mornington Peninsula Football Association, and Chair of the Mornington Racing Club; both organizations held their meetings in the Grand Hotel for many years.

Lou and Agnes Harrison had five children: Louis Jr., Alice, George, Tom and Reginald (who died in infancy). Louis Jr., George and Tom all played football for Mornington.

Tom apparently had an interest in greyhounds because he placed an advertisement in the Peninsula Post of 23 June, 1916 stating “Strayed from Mornington-light brown greyhound slut, about 6 months old, scratch on left side of jaw. Reward. T. Harrison, Grand Hotel Mornington.”

Lou Jr. decided not to follow in his father's footsteps for an advertisement in the Peninsula Post of 20 November, 1914 informed readers that he had “started business”as a painter and paperhanger.

George, however, worked for his father in the hotel until he joined the AIF on 18 August, 1914; he was one of the first in Mornington to answer the Empire's call.

With football in his blood, George participated in an exhibition match of Australian Rules football in the shadows of the pyramids, kicking two goals.

George took part in the first landing at Gallipoli with the 5th Battalion, was wounded at Cape Helles a fortnight later, and invalided to Malta and then Alexandria. Returning to Gallipoli he contracted rheumatism and was moved to Kase-el-nil. After recovering there he was promoted to Sergeant Instructor but gave that up to join his old battalion for service in France as Corporal.

Two years exactly to the day of his enlistment George died of wounds received in action in France. He was 22.

A month earlier, in July, 1916 Lou Jr. and Tom had captained opposing sides in a Patriotic Football Match held at Alexandra Park, Mornington. The game could not have been played too seriously for the Peninsula Post reported that the local photographer, Edward Sheedy, had entertained the crowd playing dressed as Charlie Chaplin: “...in the final term, when Charlie Chaplin made his run, it paralysed the onlookers.”

On 26 October, 1916 the Victorian government introduced six o'clock closing of hotels as a wartime austerity measure. This piece of “temporary” legislation remained in force for fifty years and was the bane of publicans. It didn't take long before it tripped up the locals. In November, 1917, at the local court of Petty Sessions at Mornington, Mr. P. Cohen P. M.,and Dr. Somers, Mr. Barrett and Mr. Flood, Justices of the Peace, presided when the licensees of Kirkpatricks, the Grand and the Tanti hotels were charged with having their doors open during prohibited hours. All three were fined: ten pounds ($20)(two charges), five pounds and five pounds respectively with six shillings(60 cents) costs in each case.

The news of the death of Louis Harrison on 20 August, 1918, at the age of 51, came as a painful shock to the community. The Mornington Standard reported that he was “universally esteemed” in that he was connected with, and took an active part in, all the local sporting bodies, and was a prominent figure in any movement for the benefit of the town. He was made a Life Member Of the Mornington Football Club in 1921. continued next page...

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Return of the Revolving door.

With the death of Louis Harrison and his son George, the era of the Harrison family drew to a close after 11 years: in December, 1918 Agnes transferred the licence to Dora Garden. In 1919 the Grand expanded to its present size when three matching bays and verandahs were added to the east side. The verandahs were timber, two level and with a shingled skirt-like balustrade, typical of the era.

Extensions also added a public bar downstairs and more bedrooms along the front upstairs around this time.

To raise funds for the assistance of returned soldiers, Dora Garden's husband donated a “handsome silver cup”as first prize in a billiard tournament at the Grand Hotel in 1919. Ten pounds and twelve shillings ($21.20) was raised.

On 16 February, 1920 The Argus reported that at the Mornington Police Court Dora Garden, proprietress of the Grand Hotel was proceeded against by Inspector Roche of the Health Department for placing an inferior whisky under the label of John Dewar's Imperial Whisky, and was fined ten pounds ($20) with seven pounds and seven shillings ($14.70) costs.

The writing was on the wall for Dora and in the following month she was replaced by Mr. C. D. Robertson. He promised that this old established hostelry would be conducted to the satisfaction of its patrons. Perhaps Clarence Robertson tried too hard in this respect for on 1 July, 1920 he was before the Mornington Court of Petty Sessions for unlawfully trafficking in liquor and allowing certain persons upon his licensed premises during prohibited times. He was fined three pounds ($6) with eighteen shillings ($1.80) costs.

Clarence must have been a slow learner for on 29 July, 1920 he was fined again: five pounds ($10) with two pounds, one shilling and sixpence ($4.15) costs. This was for “...having failed to have every door leading to the bar on his licensed premises from outside or inside the said premises shut and locked during the hours which the sale or disposal of liquor to the public was prohibited.” He pleaded guilty again in December 1920 to having his bar open contrary the licensing law and was fined five pounds ($10) with two pounds and six shillings ($4.60) costs.

However these indiscretions should not be seen as an indication of Mr. Robertson's bad character. He was always in the line when donations were required; for example he donated five pounds, five shillings ($10.50) towards the first Mornington Cup, raced for on 4 January, 1921. He was also a great supporter of the local football and cricket clubs, fire brigade and town band. On 1 October, 1920 the Grand Hotel was the scene of a sporting celebration, “...the equal of which had not been seen on the peninsula”; the occasion was the success of Mornington in winning the football premiership.

Although Clarence Robertson had relinquished the management role at the Grand to Florence Helena Downie at the end of 1920, he retained ownership of the property for on 22 December, 1922 the Peninsula Post reported that he was “...another who is helping to make the town buildings more attractive. He has just recently added a new balcony to the hotel at considerable cost, which has made this one of the most up-to-date residential hotels on the peninsula. The hotel is to be sewered throughout in the near future, as well as two new shop frontages adjoining erected, one to be used as a bottle and spirit department.”

On 19 December, 1921 the licence was again transferred, this time to Clarence Robertson's sister, Mrs. Elsie Harris. In July, 1923 the Peninsula Post reported that the Grand had been connected to the electricity supply: it had “55 lights and 2 power points.” In

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November, 1925 a wireless set was installed in the Grand Hotel, with a speaker in the bar and another upstairs in the drawing room, “to be controlled by either location, as desired.”

On 28 February, 1927 George Washington Emery (known as “Digger”) took over the licence after leaving the Grand Hotel in Mildura and in April extensive renovations were carried out. The Peninsula Post reported that the hotel had been subjected to “... such a complete renovation that its former licensee would hardly know it. The bedrooms have been freshly plastered and a scene of snowy whiteness in the rooms is visible everywhere. New carpets have been laid; refurnished;a new saloon bar installed; and the introduction of a bottle department supplies a long-felt want locally.”

Mr Emery involved himself with various sporting clubs: the football club celebrated its 1927 premiership with a dinner at the Grand and a special luncheon was served on 23 December, 1928 to celebrate the first match of the newly formed Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association.

William Bernard Coster took over the licence of the Grand on 19 August, 1931 but his term was short-lived as he was replaced

by James Louis Nugent on 15 March, 1932. The licence was transferred on 13 February, 1935 to Annie Victoria Ritchie, and yet again on 8 July of that year to John Condren. Mr. J. SharpeBrown purchased the freehold in June 1937 with the intention to remodel, and then on 2 August, 1939 James Herbert Maddern took over the licence. In October, 1940 J.H.Maddern was in court charged with the disposal of liquor during prohibited hours and for permitting a person on the premises. Oddly, the first charge was dismissed but the second charge was found proven with a fine of two pounds ($4) and one pound, sixteen shillings and eightpence ($3.67) costs.

William Randolph Finlayson replaced Maddern as licensee in October, 1940 and two months later he was before the court charged with dispensing intoxicating liquor during prohibited hours and with having persons on the premises in prohibited hours.

Below: Maddern's Grand Hotel, circa 1940.

Six soldiers from the Mt. Martha military camp were charged with being on the premises. Police gave evidence that at 3.10 p. m. on Sunday 10 November they attended the Grand Hotel and saw six soldiers each with a glass of beer. The licensee claimed the men were bona-fide travellers (i.e. they had travelled more than 25 miles (40 kilometres)) and he only admitted them after being informed that the soldiers were from Darley (near Bacchus Marsh). After hearing all the evidence the magistrate dismissed the charge of disposal, but on the charge of having persons on the premises, a fine of three pounds ($6)was imposed with eighteen shillings and eight pence ($1.87) costs. The six soldiers found on the premises were each fined two shillings and six pence (25 cents).

In January 1941 two more soldiers were intercepted on the premises and subsequently fined two pounds ($4) for misrepresenting themselves as bona-fide travellers, plus ten shillings ($1) each for being on licensed premises. Mr. Finlayson had obviously had enough for in March, 1941 proprietorship passed to George Rupert Kanake, and then in December of the same year to Paul Perry Van Suylen (known as “Col�) and his brother-in-law Frank Riley. Col's grandfather was one of the earliest settlers in Balnarring and had built Warrawee, the district's first hotel. In February, 1946 the Van Suylens hosted a big meeting which resulted in the revival of the Mornington Peninsula Football League.

During June, 1946 the opportunity of the quiet season was taken to make a number of improvements to the interior and exterior of the Grand. This was the forerunner to the transfer of the licence on 9 August, 1946 to a partnership trading under the name of Grieves and Aitken. In the following year the Grand hosted a dinner in May which led to the formation of the Mornington Chamber of Commerce, and another dinner in October which was a reunion for old footballers.

Above: "Col" Van Suylen at the bar in the Grand Hotel, circa 1942.

Frank Riley is the barman in the background. Photo Mary Muir.

Below: The Grand Hotel, circa 1944.

To be continued in September 2019 edition of Peninsula Essence

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Mornington Peninsula

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Their children now also work within the business. “They are our perspective-givers,” says Cosi. “They enjoy it, and their hearts are in it. We are proud of their attitudes”.

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Driving through the rolling hills of Main Ridge, it is hard to tell that this is home to one of the largest strawberry producers in Australia. More than 50 years ago this piece of paradise was a small orchard supplying local fruit shops. Then in the early 1980’s they opened the first field for people to pick their own strawberries and today they pride themselves on having quality strawberries to pick for a full six months of the year from November to May.

the best berries ever

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The Sunny Ridge cafe features a beautiful menu including a dessert menu of strawberries paired with the Sunny Ridge range of farm-made ice-cream. The crowd favourite is the very decadent chocolate fondue but that’s not the only berry experience at Sunny Ridge, you can purchase freshly picked strawberries, DID YOU KNOW? desserts, jams, syrups and freeze dried In the strawberry fields strawberries from the shop. There Five million strawberry plants are hand planted each season. is in fact far more to this strawberry farm than meets Sweet production the eye.

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