FEBRUARY 2024
FREE
PENINSULA Living & Visiting on the Mornington Peninsula
KOALA WHISPERER
Part of the Federation University Koala Genetic Research Team leading the scat collection of koalas across Victoria, ecologist Kelly Smith works to save Victorian koalas in an ever-expanding urban landscape.
Portsea Farewell • Voices In Harmony • Layered Approach The Invisible Writer • Chutneys Are His Jam • From French Island To Canberra
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THE
Leading 10. Koala Whisperer Part of the Federation University Koala Genetic Research Team leading the scat collection of koalas across Victoria, ecologist Kelly Smith works to save Victorian koalas in an ever-expanding urban landscape.
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16. Portsea Farewell Media legend Pete Smith OAM and his wife Jackie reflect on 60 years of having the Mornington Peninsula as their second home and the wonderful aspect of being in the ‘dress circle of Rosebud’.
ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA & SURROUNDS
20. Voices in Harmony The sound of singing is ringing through halls around the Mornington Peninsula as more people seek social connection through community choirs after years of COVID-related withdrawal.
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Arts 24. Layered Approach Frankston artist, Kylie Stillman, creates images from absence, three dimensions from two, paints with thread and illuminates with shadow. Her exhibition, Glimmer Warning, is currently on display in the foyer of the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery.
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28. The Invisible Writer Proudly published by
James Aitchison calls himself the invisible writer because you probably haven’t heard of him, despite having 201 books, 264 poems, 104 short stories and 20 essays published, with over three million books sold.
Eat & drink Writers: Andrea Louise Thomas, Muriel Cooper Photography: Yanni, Gary Sissons Creative: Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne Publisher: Melissa McCullough Advertising: Andy Jukes, 0431 950 685, andy@mpnews.com.au Phone: (03) 5974 9000
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. Peninsula Essence is produced monthly. 30,000 copies (mix of home delivery and bulk dropped at an extensive network of outlets across the peninsula).
Registered address: 63 Watt Road, Mornington Vic. 3931 W: peninsulaessence.com.au FB: @peninsulaessence Insta:@peninsulaessence
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Elfreds of the Peninsula, a preserves and delicacies business whose recipes have been gathered over the last 40 years, is the creation of Fred Johnson, a European chef who has been living and working on the Mornington Peninsula for over 20 years.
Recipe 48. Peking Pork Pancakes
History 62. From French Island to Canberra Starting its working life on French Island, a 1912 McDonald ‘EB’ Imperial tractor (No. 140), one of the earliest Australian-made tractors, has recently been put on display at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.
Every Month
PEFC Certified This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources. www.pefc.org
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44. Chutneys Are His Jam
ISSUE 94 Cover image by Yanni
February 2024
6. Peninsula Styles 8. What's On 34. The Lowdown 58. Focus On Red Hill 60. Crossword
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Styles PRODUCTS FROM THE PENINSULA WE'RE SURE YOU WILL LOVE
LUDUCO LIVING The sumptuous Costa Rica sofa covered in tan nubuck leather, with a luxurious fill for the cushions, provides perfect comfort. One only currently reduced to clear at $7999. Exclusive to Luduco Living. Shop 10 1128/1132 Nepean Hwy, Mornington
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February 2024
Kibu has the Peninsula covered with umbrellas -from small beach umbrellas to our giant cafe 5x5M umbrellas.
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What's on? FEBRUARY 3 PENINSULA SHORT FILM FESTIVAL Head to Rosebud's Village Green, bring a picnic blanket and enjoy up to 20 short films, judged live by a panel of celebrities. Food trucks, wine, beer, live music and art/craft market stalls. General entry. Tickets $10pp. Children under 12 free. eventbrite.com.au
FEBRUARY 2024
FEBRUARY 18 MUSIC AT McCLELLAND
On at Mcllelland gallery every third Sunday of the month. This month featuring Cairo Club Orchestra with their innate sense of swing and hot solos played on period instruments conveying an infectious sense of joy and fun. You can purchase a ticket to a single performance of your choice, or select five sessions or a full subscription. eventbrite.com.au
FEBRUARY 21 BRIARS HOMESTEAD GARDEN AND GROUNDS TOUR
Join our visitor experience staff on a 45 minute tour around the outside of the homestead and gardens and learn about the history of the Balcombe family. Tour starts at 10am. Book your spot for this free event via website. eventbrite.com.au
FEBRUARY 22 LIVE COMEDY AT ESCAPE BREWING
FEBRUARY 24 LITTLE BEAUTY MARKET
FEBRUARY 25 RIDE/WALK FOR RELIEF
escape.beer
littlebeautymarket.com.au
peninsulahotsprings.com/ridefor-relief-2024
A hilarious night of comedy with the legendary Pete Helliar and guests, live and up close at escape brewery taproom -guaranteed to leave you in stitches. Doors and the bar open at 4 pm. On-site locally brewed craft beers, local wines, cider and spirits, as well as pizzas, burgers and more. Tickets $30 + booking fee.
Set within the picturesque grounds of Beauty Park in Frankston, Little Beauty Market features Melbourne's best makers and creators handpicked for their uniqueness, creativity and ethos. You can also lounge on the lush, green lawns and soak up some amazing tunes by our handpicked local musos.
Join us at Peninsula Hot Springs in this charity cycling and walking event to build connection and mental health awareness. 108km ride begins and finishes at Peninsula Hot Springs, with lunch served followed by geothermal bathing to recover. 10km walk participants will be taken through Portsea’s Point Nepean National Park.
Local care and support tailored just for you with Uniting AgeWell Help at home Get assistance with personal and clinical care, household chores, assistive technology and transport
Community support and wellbeing Remain connected with social groups, outings and carer services.
Independent living Maintain an independent lifestyle in one of our vibrant retirement living communities
Residential care Specialist 24/7 care and support and respite stays are welcome. Andrew Kerr Care Community in Mornington offers generous, stylish spaces, well appointed bedrooms and a vibrant lifestyle program.
Living well with choice and peace of mind
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February 2024
Call the Uniting AgeWell team today to find out how we can support you to live well with choice, independence and peace of mind as you age. 1300 783 435
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February 2024
KOALA whisperer By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni
S
itting high on a hill in Dromana amongst the gumtrees overlooking the sea, ecologist Kelly Smith has a clear view of both the natural and built environments. This incongruous juxtaposition is something she thinks a lot about as she works to save Victorian koalas in an everexpanding urban landscape. Habitat loss is the greatest threat to koalas and all indigenous species.
Kelly moved from Adelaide to Melbourne when she was ten. She spent most of her childhood at the Gippsland Lakes. This special place was a game changer. She went from a typical suburban existence to shadowing park rangers around Barrier Landing (Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park), asking endless questions about the environment and everything in it. A curious adventurer, Kelly was a natural-born scientist. She was forever rescuing animals and bringing them home. She even dissected creatures she found dead on the beach. A passionate environmentalist even as a child, she’d make posters advocating for environmental protection and put them up around town. Kelly has always worked with animals starting out as a veterinary nurse at 16. Her love for koalas started in childhood when visiting Raymond Island where she took part in koala counting competitions. Ironically, she watched the koalas decimate the island as their population grew and their habitat shrank. Kelly spent lots of time exploring the Gippsland Lakes area with her Dad on their boat. Her parents were also keen campers so the family enjoyed plenty of time in nature. Kelly went to secondary school in Melbourne, but even then, she was the environmental captain at her school. The Environmental Studies teacher, with Kelly and fellow pupils, transformed the football oval into a flora and fauna reserve with a lake. Kelly planted trees, tested the water and collected data. Even now, it’s still thriving.
At Central Queensland University Kelly studied Ecology and Conservation Biology. Later, she moved to Phillip Island and studied remotely through Federation University. When she wasn’t working, studying or surfing, she was volunteering to work with animals at local nature parks or zoos. She moved to the Peninsula six years ago. For her third-year Bachelor of Science project, Kelly undertook a genetic study of the Mornington Peninsula koala population employing citizen scientists from Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation to collect koala scats (poo) to ascertain their ancestry, sex and disease status. Kelly continued her genetic research of Mornington Peninsula koalas as an Honours project. This research led to her fabulous discovery of the unique Strzelecki koalas in the Western Port Woodlands. The ancestors of these koalas survived the near extinction level hunting in the 1800s, and the breeding program on French and Phillip Islands in the 1900s that saw them translocated to other parts of Victoria and South Australia. It led to a different set of problems with inbreeding and birth defects. Genetic diversity in koala populations is key to their survival. When Kelly’s research project uncovered koalas with the Strzelecki genome, they were celebrated! This project was great preparation for her current role as Koala Awareness Program Officer at Western Port Biosphere. Kelly received a $20,000 grant from Melbourne Water to continue searching for more koalas in the Western Port Woodlands. Significantly, she found three more Strzelecki koalas proving these koalas extend from the Strzelecki Ranges as far down as the Woodlands. Kelly sent her scat collection data to DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) for The Great Victorian Koala Survey. That scat collection is extending into continued next page...
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other parts of Victoria and could extend even farther. Meanwhile, Kelly is engrossed in the Western Port Biosphere Koala Habitat Restoration Project. Th Thee habitat project extends from Tyabb around the bay to Bass, with a particular focus on the Western Port Woodlands where the Strzelecki koalas were found. Th ese woodlands are an extremely These important island refuge for wildlife. It provides vital remnant vegetation in Grantville, which is under imminent threat of being destroyed for housing development and sand mining.
“I approached my supervisor, koala expert and molecular ecologist, Dr. Fiona Hogan to ask if she could supervise me on a koala conservation research project on the Peninsula for my degree. Dr. Hogan suggested scat research and I developed the project myself from there. I’m now part of the Federation University Koala Genetic Research Team leading the scat collection of koalas across Victoria,” Kelly adds.
Working with koalas is a dream come true...
Now, she’s busy applying for further grant money for the Western Port Biosphere. Funding is needed to buy trees, employ people in weed control and pay Kelly’s salary so she can continue her critical habitat restoration work.
Creating a bio-link and enhancing koala habitat through revegetation helps to increase the genetic diversity of the population. Partnering with Landcare and local land owners to maintain koala transit corridors (bio-links) is imperative to their survival and for the many other plants and animals that call the Western Port Woodlands home.
Hopefully, the scat collection data and discovery of Strzelecki koalas will lead to their classifi classification cation as a threatened species. Kelly will continue working with Western Port Biosphere, but also hopes to move into an ecological consultant role next. She’s eminently qualifi qualified. ed.
“Working with koalas is a dream come true. Ten years ago, I started working as a Parks Victoria ranger on French Island where I came to better understand the problems koalas face. I got very passionate about helping,” she says.
biosphere.org.au
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Mt Eliza Gardens Aged Care is a brand new luxurious, 141 suite state-of-the-art aged care facility, located on the Mornington Peninsula, and it is now open for tours. The prestigious facility is part of the family-owned Australian Aged Care Group Pty Ltd (AACG), which prides itself on innovation in caring for the aged with a mission to excel in providing quality care services and accommodation. Mt Eliza Gardens is architecturally designed with premium hotel-style accommodation that embraces older Australians in a place where they feel most comfortable, while still living in their local community.
The facility has been purposefully designed with careful attention to detail in the quality of the living environment and services provided. It will be staffed to meet the increasingly discerning standards demanded by our ageing population. The multi level facility will provide care to residents with ageing in place programs offering all levels of care, as well as consulting suites for medical practitioners and allied health professionals. We also offer a dedicated Memory Support Unit. The spacious and elegant facility consists of several separate wings, adjoining central lounges, café, bar, reception centre and provides an extensive range of services to assist residents in remaining active and engaged.
Features include: n Single, spacious rooms/suites with ensuite bathrooms and comfortable living area n Ageing in place programs n Larger suites with fully equipped kitchenettes and lounge area for premium style of living n Spacious lounge, sitting and dining areas n Individually controlled heating and air conditioning in every room/suite n Telephone, Foxtel and Netflix connection points in every room/suite n Expansive undercover car parking n Courtyard and outdoor garden sitting areas n Private GP Consulting Room n Hairdressing & Beauty Salon
n Chapel (non-denominational) n Gold Class Cinema n Café and Bar n Physiotherapy room and large Gym n LED TV screens in every room/suite n Dedicated bus for resident outings n Wi-Fi n Private Dining Room for special occasions To discuss your individual requirements and experience the Mt Eliza Gardens Aged Care lifestyle firsthand, please phone (03) 8001 8000 or visit our website mtelizagardensagedcare.com.au
Mt Eliza Gardens Aged Care 235 Canadian Bay Road, Mt Eliza Victoria (03) 8001 8000 mtelizagardensagedcare.com.au
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February 2024
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Proudly supported by our &major sponsors: Mornington Peninsula Community Bank Balnarring District, Robot Trading, The Ross Trust, Shire, Community Bank Balnarring & District, Robot Trading, The 3MP Easy Music, Hastings Mowers, Gendore Tractors & MP NewsRoss GroupTrust, 3MP Easy Music, Hastings Mowers, Gendore Tractors & MP News Group
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February 2024
PORTSEA farewell By Muriel Cooper Photos Yanni & Supplied
M
edia legend Pete Smith OAM and his wife Jackie are bidding a fond farewell to Portsea after 60 years of having the Mornington Peninsula as their second home.
Pete and Jackie bought their first property almost 60 years ago. “It was a little place my father built in Westmore Avenue, Sorrento, in the days when you could build without all the regulations. The place is still there, believe it or not. Then, when Jackie and I were married, we bought our own little place in London Bridge Road, again just a very humble beach shack. It was the days when beach houses were beach houses, not mansions. We loved it there because it’s a dead-end road down to the iconic London Bridge, and the kids enjoyed that in their early years, going across the road and pinching golf balls off the greens, much to the anger of golfers,” Pete chuckles. “I didn’t know they were doing it until quite late in the piece.” “Then we got the opportunity to turn a paddock into another lovely home and subdivided it into the place we are now. Over those eras, we’ve had some wonderful times, all in this wonderful area, which is really unique. The Peninsula has something very special going for it, which I don’t believe any other area has, and we’ve got plenty of wonderful areas in Victoria.” continued next page...
February 2024
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So what’s it like to put their precious Portsea home up for sale? “There “There was a lot of emotion involved in making this decision but, at the same time, the full impact for Jackie and I won’t be felt until we’ve gone. You don’t put a footprint down the way we have for all those years in this area without feeling a great sense of loss when you leave. We think it’s the most wonderful home, and somebody, hopefully, a younger family, is going to reap the benefit That’s benefit and enjoy it all over again. Th at’s what it’s all about, I think.” Back when Pete was working in radio and television at Channel 9 with legends like Graham Kennedy, Ernie Sigley and Don Lane, it was a long way to drive down to Portsea along single-lane roadways. You had to be passionate about getting there. “Mind you,” Pete says, “there weren’t as many cars on the road, and there weren't as many people – most of the time. five flying In those days, we worked fi ve nights a week on live variety, fl ying by the seat of your pants. It was relentless, and the weekend was the only escape.
Pete is still involved at Channel 9, is in demand as a guest Thee O’Brien Institute of speaker, raises money for charities like Th Microsurgery, and is currently doing a podcast with comedian Tony Martin, who is 25 years younger than Pete, and Djovan Caro, another young comedian who is 25 years younger than Tony. There’s “It spans three decades,” says Pete. “It’s a joy. Th ere’s nothing like younger people recognising what you did and respecting it and wanting to utilise it.”
There was a lot of emotion involved in making this decision...
“As the years have gone by, it’s become more and more suburban down here, and sadly – it had to happen – the little village of Sorrento has disappeared. Whereas the benefit benefit of Portsea, like Flinders, is that it’s been left basically untouched. It’s not much different Thee different from what it was in years gone by. Th loss of the beach, though, is a tragedy.”
Above and below left: Pete & Jackie Smith's Portsea home
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Thee monthly podcast is called ‘From the Th Thee name Hideout’ and has quite a following. Th echoes back to when Pete and Philip Brady were schoolboy friends playing radio stations under Pete’s house in Kew. “We thought it was the real deal on a Sunday. We’d ‘broadcast’, and that turned out to be the equivalent of what today we call podcasts. So Phillip is really responsible for what I do now with Tony and Djovan.”
finding Pete and Jackie are both in their eighties and are fi nding the drive down, and the responsibilities of looking after the place are getting too much. Besides, their son, landscape designer Nicholas Smith magnificent and his partner Annmaree Van Rooy have a magnifi cent property, Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens, in Boneo, so Pete and Jackie will retain their connection to the Peninsula. “Nick's place is the best of both worlds, really,” says Pete. “It’s still only ten minutes to the beach, and there’s the wonderful aspect of being in the ‘dress circle of Rosebud’. “
Top right: Pete with collection of celebrity photos and (inset) himself from his television hey-day
The School for ADVENTUROUS MINDS Join us at
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A celebration of art, creativity, curiosity and design! Fri 23 February from 4pm at Senior Campus 485 Golf Links Rd Langwarrin South
VOICES VOICES IN harmony By ByLiz LizBell Bell Photo PhotoSupplied Supplied
T T
he he sound sound ofof singing singing isis ringing ringing through through halls halls around around the the Mornington Mornington Peninsula Peninsula asas more more people people seek seek social social connection connection through through community community choirs choirs after after years years ofof COVID-related COVID-related withdrawal. withdrawal. Singing Singing together together has has long long been recognised as a way to facilitate social bonding, been recognised as a way to facilitate social bonding, but but itit isisalso alsoknown knownfor forimproving improving mental mental health health and and happiness. happiness. The Themusical musicaldirector director and and conductor conductor of of Vox Vox Peninsula, Peninsula, Jill Jill Linley, said singing together had many health benefits and Linley, said singing together had many health benefits and gave gavesingers singersaasocial socialoutlet outletsome somemight mightotherwise otherwise not not have. have. “It’s “It’sgreat greatfor forthe thesoul, soul, and and people people get get so so much much joy joy out out of of itit––plus pluswe weperform performinin the the community community so so there’s there’s aa whole whole community communitybenefit,” benefit,”she shesaid. said.
Vox VoxPeninsula Peninsulabegan beganininearly early2023 2023when when aa group group of of musicians musicians decided to form a community choir. “The aim was decided to form a community choir. “The aim was to to become become aafour-part four-part (soprano, (soprano, alto, alto, tenor tenor and and bass bass –– SATB) SATB) choir choir with with high highstandards, standards,singing singingchallenging challengingchoral choralmusic music by by classical classical and and
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5/1 Mornington-Tyabb Mornington-Tyabb Road, 5/1 Mornington VIC 3931 Mornington admin@sharpscarpetone.com.au admin@sharpscarpetone.com.au
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modern composers,” composers,”she shesaid. said.AAcommittee committeewas wasformed, formed,business business modern matters set set in in place, place, aa venue venue arranged, arranged, and and musical musical friends friends matters contacted,and andby byMay MayVox VoxPeninsula Peninsulabegan beganrehearsals rehearsalsininaaMount Mount contacted, Elizahall hallwith withabout about30 30members. members. Eliza Heather Wickes Wickes isis the the resident resident accompanist accompanistand andJill Jillsaid saidplans plans Heather were underway underway for for aa series series ofof performances performancesinin2024, 2024,beginning beginning were with aa concert concert of of classical classical choral choral favourites favourites ininMay Mayand andending ending with with two two special special Christmas Christmas presentations presentations inin November November and and with December. “Singing together is a joyous, positive experience, December. “Singing together is a joyous, positive experience, and singing singing challenging challenging music music inin aa mixed mixed voice voicefour-part four-partchoir choir and provides extra mental stimulation,” she said. “Even singers who provides extra mental stimulation,” she said. “Even singers who are not skilled in music reading find that being part of a group are not skilled in music reading find that being part of a group of experienced experienced choristers choristers quickly quicklydevelops developstheir theirmusic musicskills skillsand and of increases their enjoyment and satisfaction.” increases their enjoyment and satisfaction.” One of of the the largest largest community community choirs choirs inin Australia, Australia,Pop PopChoir, Choir, One also has has aa peninsula peninsula presence presence through through its its singing singing group group inin also Mornington.Last Lastyear, year,the thechoir choirrecorded recordedits itsfirst firstsingle, single,Windows Windows Mornington. continuednext nextpage... page... continued
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...It’s been a really lovely social thing Leanne and Lindy and a whole lot of gorgeous in Mornington where we just sing, dance for people in people and laugh – usually because Sharon says something the area to get funny – and walk away feeling fabulous and ready for the week,” she said. involved in
with Smiles, which was released in October 2023 to streaming platforms, with the hopes of also raising awareness for the Lighthouse Foundation’s Youth Homelessness mission. Cofounder Darryl Moulton said the Mornington Tuesday groups were the most recent Pop Choir addition and within four weeks of starting last year demand was so high a larger location had to be found. “We relocated from a small venue to the Peninsula Community Theatre in order to fit everyone in. Mornington is a tight knit community, and we know people in the area are always looking for interesting things to do. It’s been a really lovely social thing for people in the area to get involved in,” he said.
Mornington member Cathy Mitchell, 61, who joined Pop Choir when it first opened, said “and thank goodness it did. I just love it”. “It has brought so much sunshine to my life. I was looking for something just for me, something to make me happy and something for me to look forward to. My husband said go for it. He sees how happy it makes me. I just love to sing,” she said. Cathy said the singing had improved her breathing and been a great form of therapy after recent surgery for a tumour on her pulmonary artery. “Each week I attend with my two girlfriends
Another community choir, Mornington Peninsula Chorale, is also a SATB choir and was formed in 1979 as the Frankston Continuing Choir, before formally becoming the Mornington Peninsula Chorale in the 1990s. The choir performs with the Frankston Symphony Orchestra and on its own, singing a variety of genres. The chorale has worked alongside the MSO Chorus and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, performing the Messiah in December 2022. The Mornington Peninsula Chorale is a community choir and auditions are not required. To become a member, membership of the Frankston Music Society is required, but rehearsals are held in Mount Eliza.
frankstonmusicsociety.org.au
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Arts
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LAYERED approach By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni
F
rankston artist, Kylie Stillman, is an artistic alchemist. She creates images from absence, three dimensions from two, paints with thread and illuminates with shadow. Her exhibition, Glimmer Warning, is currently on display in the foyer of the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. Kylie was invited by the MPRG to exhibit as a local female artist in front of the National Gallery of Australia’s Know My Name travelling exhibition. It’s an NGA gender equity initiative that celebrates and acknowledges the work of Australian women artists. While not part of the NGA exhibition, Kylie is delighted to represent local women artists.
out on broadsheet newspaper and trace around it. Kylie has internalised this practicality and uses it to create art in a similarly purposeful and sequential way. “From a very early age I understood flat patterns that come from three-dimensional forms. That’s my work over and over again – it’s three-dimensional forms that come from cutting out twodimensional sheets of paper, wood or shapes from a book. And I love that. You’d never think a pant leg comes from a shape kind of like an R,” she says.
From a very early age Kylie’s interest in art came from crafting with I understood her mother. In addition to fashioning and sewing, was always interested in drawing. Wherever flat patterns Kylie she was, when she had nothing else to do, she Glimmer Warning looks at simple elements of that come occupied that time with drawing. Her artistic nature that bring joy – dewdrops glistening on spiderwebs, light through trees at certain times of from three- talents were recognised in primary school. day that make shapes in shadow, the unexpected From high school, Kylie went to Moorabbin dimensional TAFE patterns found in cut vegetables when cooking – then Monash University to study Graphic reminders that there is beauty all around us if we forms Design because she viewed it as a practical trade take a moment to look at it.
Kylie's greatest satisfaction is seeing someone look at her work and smile. She wants her artistic legacy to be bringing joy. She is inspired by imagining how to transform an empty space into something that elicits delight and personal reflection. Making has always been an integral part of Kylie’s life. Her mother was a very practical person who made clothing for Kylie and her brothers. Without even using a pattern, she’d lay clothing
with good employment prospects. She loved that course because it introduced her to other arts such as, photography, ceramics and printmaking. It was a really good grounding in materials, disciplines and how things are made. “It was the art history component of that course that really got me. From there I was hooked. I understood art much better then. I didn’t finish that degree because I wanted to study painting. It was the only discipline I hadn’t been introduced to. continued next page...
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I left Monash and begged RMIT to let me into their painting program. Someone dropped out and I got into first year painting,” she says. She completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at RMIT with honours.
I like handmade because I have control. I get all the joy from it...
Her first job was as an art technician at a private secondary. She stretched canvases, set up the dark room and print lab, fired ceramics and made sure the computers and printers were working. This was at a time when photography was transitioning from analogue to digital so she also learned new editing suites. It couldn’t have been a better grounding. In her second job, she worked in arts management at the Melbourne Art Foundation, running events and working with artists. Here she came to understand art at an operational level learning what curators and project managers do. This knowledge built on an already strong foundation. Since graduating from university in 1999, Kylie has exhibited continuously in Australia and abroad. Utopia Gallery in Sydney began representing her in 2003 and that relationship continues today. Ten years ago, she decided to work exclusively as an artist full-time.
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Kylie has been awarded numerous grants and prizes, including the prestigious Montalto Sculpture Prize in 2019 for her piece, Moonah. She has also been an artist in residence from Police Point in Portsea to Milan, Italy. Her work is held in regional, national and private collections across Australia. Harkening back to those early days crafting with her mother, everything Kylie creates is handmade slowly and methodically. “I like handmade because I have control. I get all the joy from it. It takes a long time, but I’m not in a hurry. I have to cut one piece at a time. There is no other way. I like working with encyclopedias because I can take a break and read a page,” she says. In taking the time to view her work, you may be fascinated too by getting a glimpse into such an intricate process. Even better if Glimmer Warning brings a smile and a bit of joy into your day – that’s the aim.
kyliestillman.com mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au
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THE INVISIBLE writer By Muriel Cooper Photos Gary Sissons
J
ames Aitchison calls himself the invisible writer because you probably haven’t heard of him, despite having 201 books, 264 poems, 104 short stories and 20 essays published, with over three million books sold. However, you might recognise one of his pseudonyms. James Lee, David Carrick, Mike Rader, and T.N. Roman, among others. His two series, written for readers from year levels six to twelve, Mr Midnight and Mr Mystery, are wildly popular in Singapore, where Jim lived for many years, and in surrounding Asian countries. They’ve been translated into almost every Asian language and are studied in universities and taught in schools there. Jim has won an Australian Arts in Asia award for his contribution. Now, ‘Mr Midnight: Beware The Monsters’ is a series on Netflix, and it’s a lot of fun. While Jim uses his real name for poetry (he is published in several anthologies, and in one, A World Full Of Poems, he is in the company of the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson and Emily Dickenson), he uses pen names because, as he says, "People won’t let you out of your genre, so if you’re Agatha Christie you have to write crime, if you’re Enid Blyton, about cucumber sandwiches, so I change my name to suit the audience. In the children’s books – the horror stories for Asia – no one could pronounce Aitchison, so I called myself James Lee because that’s East/West. In another, I called myself T.N. Roman. No one knows what it means, but it’s a typeface – Times New Roman.’ He says, laughing uproariously." Jim was born in Sydney and went into advertising in Melbourne, writing copy. "It was great fun, going to ‘In Melbourne Tonight’ and doing the commercial rehearsals. Hal McElroy (Picnic At Hanging Rock, Blue Heelers, Sea Patrol) was my offsider. Hal and I used to take these trays of cold Noon Pies, and we’d be so hungry we’d eat three or four of them before we got them into the prop cage at GTV 9." continued page 30...
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Then Jim began writing for the iconic ‘Mavis Bampton Show’. "That was a great thrill," he says. "The show that really changed television.’ Jim was a writer for Grace Gibson Radio Productions, which he wrote for in the last days of the big radio serials in the seventies. "I would have loved to have been around in the forties when radio drama was at its peak," Jim says. "Grace Gibson kept going; she was still doing radio soaps right up until 1979/80, and the company is still producing radio plays today for community and country radio. I wrote a show called ‘Under Her Spell’, and then another called ‘A Murder a Minute."
Archives in Canberra, Jim says, "People asked, 'How did you write 130 episodes all by yourself? Did you have notes?' And I said, No, It’s all up here,” he says, pointing to his head. “Did you have a computer? No, on a typewriter. Once I started, I’d do one copy for me and one for the studio, and I very rarely took it out, tore it up and started again. Your brain just went into this special place, and the words flowed." Jim has co-authored two books on the subject, ‘Yes, Miss Gibson,’ and ‘A Theatre In My Mind.’
I would have loved to have been around in the forties when radio drama was at its peak
Jim loves spoken word stories. "I think when you read off a page, your mind is creating pictures from the words, and I think it’s the same with sound. You’re listening to this voice, and the voice itself is already a definition of something, and then comes the other voices, the sound effects and the music. The music is particularly important in radio drama because it gives you that extra flavour." Jim says there’s still a place for radio drama and hopes to write a couple for Grace Gibson Productions. Then there’s the internet and podcasting. At a talk he gave for the National Film and Sound
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After moving to Singapore and becoming the creative director of an advertising agency (which created the brand for Singapore Airlines), Jim left to be a full-time writer, writing a bestseller on advertising called ‘The Cutting Edge’ and talking to the fifty best people in advertising in the world at the time (1990s).
He says, "The publisher asked, 'Now that you’re writing a lot, have you ever thought of writing a kid's book?' and I said, No." The publisher said, “There are horror stories like ‘Goosebumps’, but there’s nothing for Asian kids.” So ‘Mr Midnight’ was born, with Asian characters and stories set in supermarkets, Asian schools, jungles, swamps, things that Asian kids had seen, so they could almost step into the stories. continued page 32...
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Like Hitchcock, Jim took the ordinary and made it extraordinary, and the result was literally a blockbuster – kids would line up around the block to have their books signed by Jim. He asked them to write their names on a slip of paper, and he still has those slips from his young readers. Th film company Beach House Thee film Pictures developed the idea for the Mr. Midnight books and sold them to Netfl ix. It won the Asian Academy Creative Award for Netflix. Best Children’s TV Show in 2023. ‘I hope they come back for season two!’ Jim laughs.
Jim and his wife Ginette love living in Langwarrin. Th eir Their daughter and her family live next door, and Ginette’s parents live further along. Jim doesn’t mind people knowing that he has Stage 4 lung cancer, which he’s being treated for in Frankston. Th ey They have managed to reduce his tumour from the size of a tennis ball to nothing using immunotherapy. ‘We just hope it doesn’t come back,’ Jim says. So do we, Jim. So do we.
Jim is also a songwriter, writing the lyrics for the 2023 Singapore Christmas song, ‘I Wish Th Thee World A Happy Christmas’ with music by Jeremy Monteiro.
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Awards:
2023 Thomas Somerscales Trophy, Maritime Painting, Victorian Arts Society
2023 Summer Exhibition Best Painting, Curator’s Choice, Victorian Arts Society 2023 John Dudley Portrait Prize Finalist
2022 Oakhill Gallery Annual Exhibition winner 2022 AME Bale Finalist
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ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA & SURROUNDS
DESIGNER DISCUSSIONS - CHOOSING THE RIGHT ARCHITECTURAL STYLE FOR YOUR CUSTOM HOME Dreaming of your forever home and designing it to suit your life is a thrilling moment, and for most people, a dream come true. It offers the chance to design your home exactly the way you want, but as exciting as the design process is, it can also be a challenge. Choosing the different design elements of your custom home takes time and careful consideration, and the final design must be something you are totally in love with. This is perhaps most true when it comes to the home’s architectural style. This is the very first thing a person sees when visiting your home and although we are told never to judge a book by its cover, it always is. The façade and style of your home sets the tone for everything else that’s inside, and unlike interiors, it is not something that can be easily altered. This makes choosing an architectural style for your home one of the most important decisions you will make in the course of creating your custom home. Everyone has a preferred architectural style, even if you are not sure what it is or what to call it. If you’re not sure what your attracted to or aren’t sure what styles are out there, don’t be forced into pigeonholing yourself or your style. Instead, take some time for contemplation or reflection and discover your preference by making lists and collect elements you like either by reviewing design magazines, visiting real estate websites or just useful apps like Pinterest. Here’s a few things our expert team at Graham Jones Design suggest you should consider when choosing the style for your custom home. Consider Your Site When first considering a direction or a style to adopt for your home, first consider whether this is appropriate for your site. For example, if your site is beautifully treed, natural acreage, then perhaps a Coastal or Mediterranean style isn’t the best of choices. Work with your site to best showcase all it has to offer and not compete or contrast.
Create a Mood Board of Elements You Love Even the expert team at Graham Jones Design seek inspiration from past and previous works, either there own projects or others, and then break down what elements of a style may suit the client, their home and it’s site. Using Magazines, Pinterest, Houzz or just Google for imagery is a considerable time saver when collecting elements you prefer for your façade or style. Look for Common Elements, Forms and Details Once you have your inspiration imagery, we encourage you to challenge yourself to breakdown what aspects and elements of each image that draw you to it. It could be the gabled roof of a modern farmhouse mimicking the agricultural building form, or a sleek transparent balcony form of a coastal style reaching out towards the water. Whatever the element or form it should reflect not only your like or want, but also your life’s needs. Consider Cost Too many projects in today’s economic climate are struggling to find their way to the construction phase because the architectural style of their custom home has too many costly elements, materials or details. A good architect or designer can reinterpret these elements and create a design that reflects not only your own preference and personality but will also be a timeless statement that doesn’t break the budget. Get an Expert Opinion Whatever your project’s size or budget, a professional designer should be able to piece all the components together to create a successful project. One that not only reflects your personality but meets all the other considerations like site and cost without compromising quality. The skilled team at Graham Jones Design live for design, and live to curate timeless custom designed homes, and are waiting to assist you with your project and bring it to reality. Give us a call today on 0477 394 864 to discuss your project further.
Don’t Just Pick A Trendy Style Trends come and go and not all of them will be remembered fondly. Instead contemplate what about your preferred style would remain timeless, for a timeless style/design is what will see your home endure the many trends of years to come. For example the likes of Modernist architecture sees many contemporary elements being replicated in today’s custom home design, from the flat minimalist roof with highlight windows, to the vast use of glass in many of its façade elements.
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P: 0477 394 864 W: grahamjonesdesign.com.au
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February2024 2024 February
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Book into the next issue Call Andy 0431 950 685 andy@mpnews.com.au
CURATORS FLOOR TALK TO EXPLORE THE ART OF HOME With 70+ Aboriginal and Australian artists and more than 90 paintings, barks, sculptures, fibre works and ceramics, there is much to explore in Everywhen Art 's opening exhibition in its new location of Whistlewood in the Peninsula hinterland. From famous artists such as Arthur Boyd to young contemporary Colombian-Mornington Peninsula artist, Joshua Searle, to renowned Kimberley artist Shirley Purdie and works from around Australia, the selection is wide and varied. A common theme is that each work represents a place of special significance to each artist. "The show honours the spirit of Whistlewood, which has hosted a huge number of art identities and art over the 70 + years this house has been our family's home," says co-curator Susan McCulloch. Susan and co-owner Emily McCulloch Childs are conducting a floor talk at the exhibition on February 10 at 2.30 pm. It’s a free event but numbers are limited and bookings essential to secure a spot. H O M E runs to February 25.
HOME CURATORS FLOOR TALK
Saturday February 10 | 2.30 pm Explore works by 70 established artists and emerging talents of Aboriginal and Australian art in the exhibition H O M E with curators Susan and Emily McCulloch at the McCulloch family’s historic home gallery Whistlewood. FREE EVENT – RSVP essential: info@everywhenart.com.au T: 03 5931 0318
Whistlewood, 642 Tucks Road, Shoreham Thursday - Sunday | 11 - 4 P: 03 5931 0318 E: info@everywhenart.com.au W: everywhenart.com.au
Exhibition runs to February 25
Whistlewood, 642 Tucks Road, Shoreham, Vic 3916 Open: Thursday-Monday | 11-4 everywhenart.com.au
February 2024
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ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA & SURROUNDS
KEEP YOUR POOL SWIM-READY DURING SUMMER With EL Nino on its way to Australia, now is the time to get your swimming pool and spa ready for your family’s enjoyment. Don’t leave it till the last minute to turn on your solar system only to discover you have a sprinkler system on your roof rather than a solar collector. Take advantage of our warm weather and extend your swimming season by investing in an Aspire pool solar heating system. Solar collector is the most cost effective and sustainable way to heat any pool or spa. Whether you have existing forms of pool heating such as gas or heat pump the Aspire solar panels can be paired with these systems and considerably reduce your energy bills even further. The award-winning rigid pool solar panel can be custom installed to maximise the roof space available. Located at our modern manufacturing facility on the Mornington Peninsula the Aspire pool solar panel is the only 100% Australian made single piece injection over moulded rigid solar panel on the market. Build from high impact, high UV polypropylene resin, these panels are tough enough to resist cockatoo attack and hail damage. HOW IT WORKS. A rigid pool solar panel works in conjunction with a low energy water pump and a solar controller. The controller monitors the panel temperature on the roof and the pool water temperature. When the panels heat up from the free rays of the sun the controller activates the pump and circulates the hot water from the roof and back into the pool. It’s that simple. SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT. With soaring electricity prices and the phasing out of gas supply to new homes there has never been a better time to invest into a more affordable and sustainable way to heating your swimming pool.
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TALKING HENS 5TH ANNUAL OPEN WEEKEND! SAT 16 & SUN 17 MARCH 2024, 10 AM - 4 PM It’s that time of the year when Talking Hens' Annual Open Weekend is on! Now in its 5th year, the farm will be open from 10 am to 4 pm and will transform into a chicken-lovers paradise for all ages. An all-weather event, you’ll be safe, comfortable and dry under our giant marquee! Why visit us? It's all about fun and learning why chickens can make such fantastic suburban pets! Backyard hens aren't just cute, they're redefining "farm-to-table" with fresh, delicious eggs laid daily and plenty of heartwarming family bonding. Plus, raising your own flock is a recipe for a happier, healthier and more sustainable home. What's on offer: • Meet our feathered residents: Fluffy Silkies to regal Marans and more.
• Enjoy free activities Face painting, petting zoo, craft activities and our childfriendly pony rides. • Presentations: "Getting Started with Backyard Hens" at 2pm on both days. Learn everything you need to know about raising your own happy flock. FREE ENTRY! Just head to talkinghens.com.au/events for further information and to grab your free tickets. All ticket holders will be entered into a daily draw to win a $200 Talking Hens gift voucher. So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars for March 16th & 17th, 2024, and join us for Talking Hens' biggest Open Weekend yet! It's going to be a fantastic weekend you won't want to miss! Spread the word! Share this event with your family, friends and fellow chicken lovers. See you there!
• Delicious treats: From coffee to pizza to ice cream. • Talking Hens Chicken Races: Choose the fastest-looking chook with your gold coin donation (all proceeds to charity), and be in to win. • Beauty Pageant: Choose the most beautiful chicken on the farm.
The Talking Hens Family A: 3590 Frankston Flinders Road, Merricks P: 0406 691 231 E: talk@talkinghens.com.au
Looking for backyard hens but unsure where to start? Talking Hens is a business that enjoys backyard hens. We specialise in friendly, egg laying hens with quality products to keep them happy and healthy. There’s nothing like the friendship and entertainment that you receive from our laying hens - a pleasure to be shared!
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For enquiries call 0406 691 231 Email: talk@talkinghens.com.au Visit: TalkingHens.com.au February 2024
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WHOLESALE WINES
DIRECT TO PUBLIC AT WHOLESALE PRICING
John Luke Limited Release Heathcote Shiraz 2021
The Bartondale Margaret River 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon
Claymore Wines Whole Lotta Love Sangiovese Rosé 2022
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LOCATION: Unit 5, 3 Trewhitt Court, Dromana Industrial Estate
HOURS: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 6pm
HOURS: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am until 5pm
PHONE: 9596 4278
PHONE: 9596 4878
DIRECT TO PUBLIC MEANS YOU SAVE! Wine Lovers Warehouse is the direct to public arm of our wholesale business specialising in restaurant, hotel, and function wines for over 17 years. COVID-19 put a big handbrake on our wholesale business and so we made a decision to transform and stay alive, supported by our friends and the local community, which we will be forever grateful.
We opened the warehouse every week to the public, selling our wines and suppliers at trade prices and no retail mark ups. It is our commitment to remain open servicing the needs of our Wine Lover community into 2023 and beyond. Come along and say hello, grab a bottle or a case. Try before you buy at the Hastings store guarantees you will be satisfied with your choices.
Sons & Daughters Margaret River Shiraz 2021
T’Gallant Pinot Grigio 2021
Granite Rose Estate Mornington Peninsula Chardonnay 2022
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Fred with a range of his home made products
CHUTNEYS ARE HIS jam By Melissa McCullough Photos Supplied
E
lfreds of the Peninsula is the creation of Fred Johnson, a European chef who has been living and working on the Mornington Peninsula for over 20 years. His preserves and delicacies business comprises ranges of chutneys, relishes, sauces, pickles, preserves, spices, jams and marmalades; they are recipes that have been gathered over the last 40 years through Fred’s travels and working career as a chef in various parts of the world.
Fred’s love affair with food and markets started long ago as a child in Nigeria having spent a lot of time going to the markets in the village of ljebu Ode for his mum. He recalls, “At the age of ten I was sent to markets to go and buy vegetables, chillis, meats and fish. I also remember playing in the little village night market which was on most nights of the week.”
“I got to know what a new town or city was like from the vibe of the market. I would walk up and down the rows of vegetable and fruit sellers, the butchers and the fishmongers, checking out what was locally available. You can learn all about the food that will be available on the restaurant menus from the aisles at the local markets.”
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Since his days of running amuck at the night markets, Fred has also trained as a garde manger, (the specialty chef in charge of cold food items and storage), and a pâtissier; skills that he learned working in his earlier years in establishments in London.
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“As soon as possible I got myself a spot at the renowned 5-day Glastonbury Festival and so was born Elfreds Mexican Cantina. I traded there, serving Mexican food for the next 40 years”, Fred said. Life for Fred revolved around festivals and shows. During the offseason he worked for catering companies in London humbly scrubbing dishes all over Britain and Europe and aiding in providing refined refreshment to stately homes, shows, business functions, premieres and weddings. He adds, “You name it, we did the lot.”
I soon got to know what a new town or city was like from the vibe of the market
His fascination with food continued later on in life as a young chef in England. Fred feels that local markets are the centre point of most communities and that they were always his first stop after stepping foot off a bus in a new town. He says, “It was the markets that I wanted to check out first.”
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Soon, Fred could ignore the bug no more and found himself looking for more than just working in the kitchen from morning to night. After a stint in America he returned to the UK with the knowledge of Mexican cuisine and, as most chefs do, all he wanted to do was show off what he had learnt.
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Fred's students cooking up a storm at Chisholm Institute
...there is nothing like being face to face with the person that made what you are buying He has cooked in various restaurants, hotels and catering companies from Portsea to Melbourne and all over Australia. He is also a qualified chef and cooking trainer and teaches at Chisholm in Frankston.
Elfreds Mexican Cantina stand at the Glastonbury Festival
CUSTOMISED EXTERIOR SHADING CUSTOMISED EXTERIOR SHADING AWNINGS
ROOFING SYSTEMS
AWNINGS
ROOFING SYSTEMS
TRACK BLINDS
TRACK BLINDS
Fred is also happy to share his experiences as a market and festival trader to help many new and old businesses on their way to a successful career as market traders. He says, “I have seen the ups and downs and ins and outs of how the markets and festivals work and can help them to avoid the pitfalls and save them time and money.” As a trainer and assessor, he is qualified to pass on his knowledge to all new beginners to the world of markets. “Your fellow traders become good friends as you spend so much time together week after week. You grow a bond as you share the ups and downs of market life, good and bad weather days, busy markets and slow markets.” On the peninsula, you can find Elfreds delicious morsels beautifully jarred and packaged at most craft and farmers markets. Visitors from interstate and customers that he meets at his kiosks can also find him online. “We have a loyal base of customers that is one of our best assets as they love to promote and share our products with their family and friends.”
CANOPIES
CANOPIES
PH: (03) 5975 9366
info@shadesofaustralia.net.au Shop 8A, 1-13 Mornington, Tyabb Rd Mornington. www.shadesofaustralia.net.au PH: (03) 5975 9366 info@shadesofaustralia.net.au Shop 8A, 1-13 Mornington, Tyabb Rd Mornington. www.shadesofaustralia.net.au
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Keen to promote local produce, Elfreds’ products vary with the seasons as he selects the best produce when it is at its prime. He is proud to be part of the Mornington Peninsula wine and culinary region and considers it a bonus to being surrounded by some of the best handmade, home-cooked, and homegrown produce that you will ever find anywhere in Australia. Fred shares some of his favourite market stalls on his blog, Babylon Chef, via the Elfreds website. “All of the producers take a lot of pride in what they sell and there is nothing like being faceto-face with the person who made what you are buying.”
elfreds.com.au
What We Offer Regular Cleaning End of Lease Deep Clean Window Cleaning Carpet Cleaning
1300 910 971
www.essentialhomeservices.com.au contact@essentialhomeservices.com.au
TAKE THE CLASSIC “PEKING STYLE” FLAVOURS AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ROAST WITH THIS LITTLE TWIST! A FUN WAY TO GET HANDS ON AND SERVE YOUR PORK ALL WRAPPED UP IN A TASTY PANCAKE SUPER EASY!
recipe PEKING PORK PANCAKES PREP 5 COOKING 5 SERVES 8
INGREDIENTS 1 x Riverview Farms Pork Roast, crackle removed (saved for later) and shred pork 5cm thumb ginger, finely grated
Step 2. Heat a skillet or fry pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated shredded pork to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until it's heated through and slightly caramelised. Step 3. Warm the pancakes, there are a few options here; in a hot dry pan (not the classic method) or you can either steam the pancakes in a bamboo steamer or warm them in the microwave according to the package instructions.
3 cloves garlic, finely grated 1 tsp Chinese Five Spice 1 Tbs Hoisin Sauce (plus extra for serving)
Step 4. Assemble. Top the warmed pancakes with thin layer of extra Hoisin Sauce, add a portion of the caramelised shredded pork in the centre of the pancake, then top with cucumber batons and the curled shallots. Serve the Peking Pork Pancakes while they are still warm, and you can also serve the reserved crackling on the side for extra crunch and flavour.
2 Tbs Rice Wine Vinegar 16 Peking pancakes 2 Lebanese cucumbers, cut into thin batons Shallot, sliced and curled in iced water
METHOD
Repeat the assembly process for the remaining pancakes and enjoy your homemade Riverview Farms Peking Pork Pancakes!
Step 1. In a small bowl, prepare the marinade for the pork; combine ginger, garlic, Chinese Five Spice, Hoisin Sauce, and 2 tablespoons of Rice Wine Vinegar. Mix well to combine. Toss the shredded pork in the marinade coating well.
Recipe: Hayden Quinn Photo: Toby Fenn Food / Styling: Breda Fenn
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riverviewfarms.com.au February 2024
new store mornington central
ur loca f rom yo
l an d Austral ian grow
e rs
specials All Specials in February 2024
green pears $2.99kg
assorted farm fresh herbs from $2 a bunch
Come and visit
Nonno Micco’s Cafe Freshly roasted coffee, Italian sodas & fresh herbal teas available.
ham & cheese toastie wth small coffee $10
, When it s Gone... , it s Gone!
LOOSE BROWN ONIONS $1.50 KG
granny smith apples $2.99kg
BROCCOLINI 3 BUNCHES FOR $5.00 GROWN IN KOO WEE RUP
Come and enjoy great company, stories with the staff and fantastic cakes and panni.
Trading hours:
%5
show your seniors card for %5 discount store wide!
local farmers direct
Assorted Divella Pasta 2 packs for $5
Monday to Wednesday 9am to 5 pm Thursday to Friday 9am to 5:30pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 9am to 1pm
mornington central shopping centre 78 barkly street, mornington
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built for life
Single Storey Floorplan
STONERIDGE IS A UNIQUE FOUR-HOME DEVELOPMENT SITE THAT STANDS AS A TESTAMENT TO ARCHITECTURAL BRILLIANCE. With a harmonious blend of two single-storey homes and two double-storey homes, clad in natural stone and native Australian timber to create a timeless and enchanting design. Each home boasts a floor area of 60 SQ, with five bedrooms, two spacious living areas, three luxurious bathrooms, and high-quality fixtures and finishes to provide a sanctuary of comfort and style.
(03) 5987 3449 | info@beachstone.com.au | beachstonehomes.com.au | ABN 56 605 809 121
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now
SELLING
Double Storey Gound Floor
Double Storey First Floor
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The Tyabb Packing House & Village is full of wonderful antiques, jewellery, collectables giftware and more. When it was discovered that one dealer, Silver Screen, had a rare poster of Charles Chauvel’s classic movie Moth of Moonbi, the movie producer’s grandson travelled from Queensland for a photo opportunity with the poster.
Unique &Antique.
It’s believed this poster is the only one in existence and Ric Chauvel Carlsson travelled to Tyabb to view and photograph the piece which will be mentioned in his upcoming book on his grandfather Charles Chauvel. Chauvel wrote and directed the films Forty Thousand Horsemen in 1940 and Jedda in 1955. He also directed In the Wake of the Bounty, debuting Errol Flynn in this 1933 classic movie. When Greg from Silver Screen found the poster over 30 years ago, it was in very poor condition. Seeing the rarity and beauty in this piece, he sent the poster to the USA for careful restoration, conserving it for many years to come. Discover the wonderful treasures for yourself at the Tyabb Packing House & Village.
14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Tyabb Open Thursday to Sunday 10am – 5pm
Garry Pakenham offers an eclectic blend of coins, toys, and an extensive range of collectables.
0415 322 464 14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Tyabb
• Unique Home Decor • Manchester • Tablewear • Bed Linen • Gifts...and more!
you’ll love shopp ing at this store!
Located at the TYABB PACKING HOUSE 14 Mornington Tyabb Rd, Tyabb
Ric Chauvel Carlsson with film poster 'The Moth of Moonbi', directed by his grandfather, Charles Chauvel
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P: 0417 596 781 I E: hello@whiteoutofthebox.com.au W: whiteoutofthebox.com.au
ANTIQUES, JEWELLERY, FURNITURE, COLLECTABLES & MORE 14 MORNINGTON-TYABB RD, TYABB - THURS, FRI, SAT & SUN 10AM TO 5PM February 2024
J. E D WA R D S J E W E L L E RY
TYABB PACKING HOUSE Ph 0458 991 212 • FB: jedwardsjewellery
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N O W P L AY I N G . . .
at the Tyabb Packing House Australia’s LARGEST selection of original movie posters on display
Also movie memorabilia, lobby cards and comics,along with difficult to find DVDs, Disney and Beatrix Potter, limited edition figurines and statues and so much more!
OPEN THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, AND SUNDAY 10AM UNTIL 5PM
JEWELLERS •TYABB CRAFT VILLAGE •
Let us create the jewellery of your dreams
TYABB CRAFT VILLAGE 14 Mornington-Tyabb RD Tyabb Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm 0408 531 687 jewelofthenilejewellers.com.au
Chelsea Heights
ON-SIT E CAFE
MARKET 3196 - The indoor market with more... • Arts • Vintage • Fashion • Harvest • Collectables • Plants • Sweets • Vinyl • Homewares • Beauty Salon & much more! 279 Wells Road, Chelsea Heights P: 0466 458 558 W: market3196.com.au E: info@market3196.com.au
MONDAY - SUNDAY, 10AM - 5PM
Rye
Rosebud 4 SISTERS INDOOR MARKET Over 115 stalls of handmade gifts, vintage, collectibles, plants, local produce and specialty giftware all under one roof. 921 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud
MON - FRI 9AM - 5PM, SAT 10AM - 4PM, SUN 10AM - 2PM
Crib Point
Mornington
ROTARY RYE MARKET ‘Make, bake and grow’ market. All site fees go towards community projects. Rye foreshore across the road from the Rye post office. E: ryeforeshoremarket@ rotaryrosebudrye.org.au P: 0423 116 457
CRIB POINT COMMUNITY MARKET 7 Park Road, Crib Point Stalls inside & out, hand made, upcycled, plants, gift, coffee, BBQ, devonshire tea & lots more!
MAIN STREET MARKET Main Street, Mornington Hand made, hand baked and home grown products for you to peruse and purchase. Victoria’s longest running street market
market@cpch.org.au
FIRST SATURDAY EACH MONTH
EVERY WEDNESDAY 9AM - 3PM
Balnarring
Frankston
Local
EMU PLAINS MARKET Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring More than just a market the EPM is a monthly celebration of art, food, design and culture.
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17TH, 9AM - 2PM
List your market in out next edition Call Andy 0431 950 685
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LITTLE BEAUTY MARKET Beauty Park, Frankston Filled to the brim with awesomeness Little Beauty features 120+ of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos. Dogs Welcome!
Explore 240+ incredible small businesses.
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SAT FEB 10TH, 9AM - 1PM
February 2024
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 24TH, 9AM - 2PM
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Focus On
on
Red Hill
Red Hill is a 86 kilometre journey south from Melbourne, located in the hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula, between the coastal towns of Dromana and Balnarring. It has a population of approximately 1,009 with a landscape consisting of scenic hills and native forests. The name Red Hill derives from the rich, red clay that has made the area predominantly agricultural from its first European settlement in the mid-nineteenth century. Many Red Hill streets are named after pioneers: Sheehan, McIlroy, Stanley, Bayne, Arkwell, Eaton, Nash, Perry (sic) and Callanan. The Red Hill Post Office opened on the 1st of August 1871. A railway operated in Red Hill between 1921 and 1959 and was known as the Red Hill railway line. Since the 1970s, wineries have been established around Red Hill to take advantage of the microclimates that suits cool climate grapes, and especially pinot noir. Herbert Robinson (1876–1919), later mayor of Albany, Western Australia, and member of the Parliament of Western Australia was a notable resident of Red Hill. Wine lovers unite at the annual Winter Wine Weekend in June, and join in the fun and
A monthly community market is held from September through May. Patrons can still watch old-time games like Pétanque being played and smell the roasting of chestnuts. Other traditional Australian foods such as meat pies and jam donuts are also sold. Scattered throughout the area is a proliferation of vineyards, orchards and berry farms. Many of the vineyards are boutique wineries, offering visitors the opportunity to experience fine dining, wine tasting and the purchase of local produce of the region. Most of the wineries also feature attractive gardens, free for visitors to wander through or have a picnic within. The commercial centre of Red Hill is spread along four distinct spots on Arthurs Seat Road, Flinders Road and Shoreham Road, featuring a variety of eateries and services. Tucked away along roads and shady laneways around Red Hill, visitors will also find several galleries and cafes. Red Hill is a major centre on the Mornington Peninsula for entertainment events, including the popular Red Hill Show and the peninsula's premier art show - Art Red Hill. Strawberries, cherries and apples are grown and available seasonally at local farm doors.
sample more than 200 premium wines from some 50 wineries before exploring local cellar doors.
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The median house price for Red Hill is $2,265,500.
Coffee Safari
Freshly brewed coffee is a musthave for weekends away and the Mornington Peninsula's coffee haunts are second to none. Here are just a few to check out when you head down to this beautiful part of the world.
Nordie Cafe
1008 MORNINGTON-FLINDERS ROAD Elegant simplicity of Scandinavian styling and dining with highly regarded Allpress Coffee as the backbone of breakfast. Offering something for everyone from house made muffins to the Red Hill Rösti Benedict.
Food on the Hill
10/159 SHOREHAM ROAD Great spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a great cup of coffee with friendly and helpful staff. Relaxed casual vibe and excellent choice of Greek inspired food.
Red Hill Cellar & Pantry 141 SHOREHAM ROAD
The local grocer, café and a hub for the local community since 2003, grab your morning coffee or relax with friends over 5pm happy hour.
Cafe at the Epicurean
.
165 SHOREHAM ROAD
Great coffee made on the premises, great service and awesome bakery treats in the front part of the building.
What to do Whether it’s driving through the scenic hills and native bushland, enjoying a relaxing stay at a beachfront b&b, or partaking in the fine wines and art, Red Hill is the epitome of a relaxed getaway. Scattered throughout the area is a proliferation of vineyards, orchards and berry farms. Many of the vineyards are boutique wineries, with picturesque venues for celebrations which also offer visitors the opportunity to experience fine dining, wine tasting and the purchase of local produce from the region. Further delights await when coming to the commercial centre of Red Hill with a variety of eateries, galleries and shady laneways with hidden delightful day spas and art exhibitions. If nature is your thing then lose yourself in one of the dozens of walking trails, bike tracks or horse riding adventures.
oy Relax, Enjr! e v & Disco
OUTBACK SOUTH AUSTRALIA FLINDERS RANGES – COOBER PEDY 19 - 25 May 2024 *Fly/Fly Welcome to our new outback experience. Over the next few days we travel via Port Augusta to Quorn and see the Silo Light Show, Woomera, Cooper Pedy one of the most unique places in Australia and perhaps the world. Rawnsley Park Station, Flinders Ranges, Wilpena Pound.
Cost: $3,100
Photos: Yanni
Per person twin share/double (Single Supp: $500)
7 DAY SYDNEY VIVID LIGHTS THE CENTRAL COAST NSW 2 - 8 June 2024 *Fly/Fly Welcome to our 7 day tour to the bright lights of Vivid Sydney while spending some time taking in the Central Coast with multiple night stays. The holiday features many highlights, lunch Sydney Opera House, Vivid Lights Dinner Cruise! The Hawkwesbury Riverboat Postman Cruise
Cost: $3,290
Per person twin share/double (Single supp: $690)
NEW TOUR
8 DAY CALEDONIA NOUMEA FEATURING BASTILLE DAY 10 - 17 July 2024
This new tour combines the breathtaking beauty of the South Pacific with the elegance of Europe, Nouméa, New Caledonia is a captivating cosmopolitan capital. Lined with magnificent beaches, beautiful waterways and no shortage of breathtaking vantage points, a visit to the New Caledonian capital reveals some of the incredible reasons why this corner of the globe shouldn’t be missed.
Cost: $4,890
Per person twin share/double (Single supp: $960)
NEW WINTER ESCAPE QUEENSLAND 8 DAY BUNDABERG STAYPUT TOUR 6 - 13 August 2024 *Fly/Fly Come and join me on this wonderful winter escape to Bundaberg and the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Over the next few day we travel North to Agnes Waters 1770 - Eurimbula National Park Coastline – Cruise to Lady Musgrave Island. Visit to The Bundaberg Barrell, home of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks. We take a look at the True Brew Experience Tour, and so much more...
Cost: $3,860
Per person twin share/double (Single supp: $660)
7 DAY TOOLEYBUC – BROKEN HILL – MILDURA FEATURING BRUCE MUNRO’S TRAIL OF LIGHTS 15 - 21 September 2024 Welcome to our Spring holiday travelling to NSW via Boort to Tooleybuc, Broken Hill, Mildura. We visit Silverton, Balranald known as the gateway to outback NSW .Included in this holiday many interesting and relaxing attractions with multiple night stays
Cost: $2,200
Per person twin share/double (Single supp: $440 )
NORFOLK ISLAND - INCLUDING THANKS GIVING DAY 21 - 29 November 2024 Come and discover the incredible beauty of the island that is also so rich in history and culture Norfolk Island is such the place. This green island paradise is found in the middle of the South Pacific.
Cost: $5,250
Per person twin share/double (Single supp: $750)
Note: Entry Norfolk Island current drivers licence,current passport or photo ID obtained from Australia Post
Tours listed include • *Return flights • Breakfasts • Evening meals • Entrance fees • Guided tours – escorted by Vickie Lamble • Home pick up & return (Metro area)
For detailed itinerary phone: 0418 853 810 Email: lambletours@bigpond.com
www.lambletours.com.au February 2024
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Puzzle Corner ACROSS 1. Grain storehouse 5. Contagious 9. Knife part 12. Transmission casing 16. Bury (corpse) 17. Grander 18. Discharges (cargo) 20. Reykjavik is there 22. Russian spirit 23. Making known (7,2) 24. Exhorting 26. Of length 27. Male deer 28. Union 31. Splash out 32. Rounded up (cattle) 34. Japanese hostess 36. Form a curve 37. Detaining in jail 40. Adjudicator 42. Pry 43. Hauntingly frightening 45. Approved 47. Suffers pain 49. Springboard athlete 50. Money-raising drive on TV 52. Scorch 54. Result of game 55. Infuriates 56. Squall 58. Ancient Peruvians 59. Ringworm 60. Whisky & ... 61. Step ashore 62. Penpusher 63. Adhesive paste 64. Measly 67. Mongolian desert 68. Mineral springs 69. Pakistani city 72. Tea-serving container 74. Non-vowel sound 78. Keyboard operator's complaint (1,1,1) 79. Grow older 80. Irish movement (1,1,1) 81. Heavy antelope 82. Empty (glass) 85. Ninjutsu fighter 87. Crowd-scene actor 88. Cry of distaste 90. Readers' shop 91. Termites, white ... 92. Lows (of cow) 93. Pizzazz 94. Flying limbs 95. Convent sisters
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96. ... spumante 97. Onlookers 100. Minute particle 102. Rapper's showy baubles 103. Scientist, ... Curie 104. Sherlock Holmes' creator, Arthur Conan ... 106. Wax lyrical about 108. Cantonese lunch, yum ... 109. Knight's title 110. Details, ... & outs 112. Banished 116. Angry 118. Crazy 120. Wood-shaping tool 121. OK! 123. Escorts 125. Tell truth, ... clean 126. Bandage (wound) 127. Settled (debt) 128. Former English cricket captain, ... Stewart 129. Put into effect 130. Shiny black colour 131. Winner's medal 132. Condemns 134. Enemy moles 136. Proofreads 139. Night vision light 141. Tennis 40/40 142. Protest by occupation (3-2) 144. Affronted 146. W African republic 147. Slot-machine coin 148. Bushranger, ... Kelly 149. Verifies 151. Emerald month 152. Band together (4,2) 155. Milliner 158. Ferocious 159. Revival 162. Sports ground 164. Cyberspace persona 165. Treating royally, ... & dining 166. Festooning 170. Drinks heartily 171. Soapie session 172. Bloodshed 173. Bracing medicine 174. Penniless 175. Nasal cavities 176. Main courses 177. Sidestep 178. Souvlaki cooking rods
February 2024
DOWN 1. Clumsy social errors 2. Inconveniences 3. Inflatable pads (3,8) 4. More immature 5. Decorative mattress cover 6. Authentic 7. Catalogue 8. Employees walking off the job 9. Ship's prison 10. So be it! 11. Scrutinise 12. Gizmos 13. Opponents 14. Frisk (4-6) 15. Photographed bones (1-5) 19. Hard of hearing 21. Skin 25. Naked rider, Lady ... 26. Lumberjack 29. Eagle nests 30. Relative 33. Removing silt 35. First letters of words 36. Combine 38. Car technician 39. Poorest 41. Basics 42. Hobby room 44. Conger fish 46. Rudder bar 48. Steam burns 49. Rehearsal (3,3) 51. Storeys 53. Bequeathed 55. Coronation insignia 57. Port working vessel 60. Fah, ..., lah, te, doh 65. Irritates 66. Florid 70. Assistants 71. Contrary (in attitude) 73. Opiates 75. Lake Erie state 76. Son 77. Grape variety, pinot ... 78. Wild downpour 83. Find repugnant 84. Gallows loop 85. Nuzzled 86. Gossipy 89. Ornamental carp 91. Islamic leader, the ... Khan 92. Marshalling army 96. Ditto 98. Wait, ... one's time 99. Went on horseback 101. Fixes
103. Girls 105. Convict at large 107. Unevenly 111. Bee's liquid harvest 112. Lifesavers 113. Continent 114. Supermarket lanes 115. Explosive stick 117. Reviews (accounts) 119. RSA ruling party (1,1,1) 120. Revising 122. Most skilled 124. Harridan 132. Anti-glare spectacles (4,7) 133. Fellows 134. Titbits 135. Midday sleep 137. Alehouse 138. Early feminist 140. Alliance 141. Lower 143. Absent invitee (2-4) 145. Sobriety 150. Cutlet (4,4) 153. Spruces up 154. Reactor fuel 156. Give life to 157. Upper arm muscle 158. Banquets 160. In less than mint condition 161. Bluefin creature 163. Counting frame 166. Genuine, ... fide 167. Debutantes 168. Frosted 169. Crossword pattern
See page 66 for solution
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History
From French Island To Canberra By Peter McCullough
P
ictured above is the 1912 McDonald ‘EB’ Imperial tractor (No. 140) which recently was put on display at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra. This imposing machine, one of the earliest Australian-made tractors, started its working life on French Island. Adapting the internal combustion engine Horses and steam engines powered Australian agriculture before the turn of the 20th century. However, the invention
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of the oil-driven internal combustion engine in the 1870’s transformed automotive and agricultural industries around the world. Many British, European and American innovators began exploring the tremendous capacity of petrol and kerosene oil-powered machinery to replace animal and human labour. Perhaps the first ‘agricultural motor’ to arrive in Australia was an English-made ‘lvel’ exported to a Tasmanian orchardist in 1903.
Right: Alfred Henry McDonald Far right: Ernest John McDonald Below: AH McDonald & Co. tractor assembly warehouse, approximately 1910. Pictures: National Museum of Australia
Alfred and Ernest McDonald Across Australia agricultural expansion, demand for labour and technological advancement set the stage for local innovation. In 1903 Alfred Henry McDonald (1883-1963) established an engineering workshop in Flinders Street, Melbourne, with his brother, Ernest John McDonald (18861956). The brothers tinkered with the design of imported
tractors to better suit Australian conditions. By 1908 they had produced the first Australian-made, oil-powered tractor, known as the ‘EA’. This machine marked the transition between steam-powered traction engines and today’s internal combustion engine tractors. By 1912 their improved ‘EB’ model was rolling out of the new AH McDonald and Co factory and foundry in Stawell Street, Richmond. continued next page...
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Frank Chilcott, a young farmer living on French Island, purchased an EB Imperial in 1912. The son of settlers Mark and Margaret Chilcott at the Callanan settlement on the west coast of the island, he had inherited money from England and had already spent some of it on a McIntyre motor buggy.
An EB tractor arrives on French Island The Australasian newspaper estimated that the McDonald’s EB could perform “ploughing, cultivating, hauling (etc.) at a saving of from 25 to 50 per cent on horses.” Nonetheless, early tractors consumed great quantities of fuel and water, required mechanical know-how and were occasionally unreliable, not to mention expensive to purchase.
The three ton tractor’s arrival was a memorable event. “A police escort was necessary to take the vehicle to the island, but difficulty was encountered on the Mornington Peninsula when the local authority forbade the tractor being taken over the bridge spanning Carrum Creek. However, after some discussion, the official was apparently persuaded to ‘look the other way’. On arrival at Stony Point, the wheels were removed from the tractor and it was taken across to the island on a raft by the boatman Johann Jansson. When Frank’s small nephew (Garth Bennetts) saw it coming over the hill and heading for his island home, he took fright, ran inside, and hid under the bed.” (Ruth Gooch “Frontier French Island”, Page 213)
Above: Frank Chilcott's McIntyre motor buggy, photographed by Ruth Gooch in 1994. Below: Three men, possibly Bennetts family members, with the ‘EB’ tractor at French Island, 1926
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Chicory production on French Island The tractor was possibly used for land clearing for the cultivation of chicory, then a prolific industry on French Island. (Dried and ground chicory roots were added to popular coffee products produced by mainland manufacturers, including Bushells and Fauldings.) The tractor’s drivebelt may also have been useful for chopping timber to fuel the many chicory drying kilns on the island. Although Frank Chilcott purchased the tractor, the 403 acre farm on which it was used (‘Lillesdon Park’) was in fact a grazing lease taken up in 1904 by his brother-in-law, Richard Bennetts. Frank enlisted in 1916 and served in B Company, First Pioneer Battalion, AIF, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. Discharged from the army in September 1919, he drowned in Western Port Bay only two months later when his yacht the ‘Nada’ overturned. continued next page...
Above right: Fauldings Essence of Coffee and Chicory, 1940s Below: Chicory kiln on French Island, 1930 Picture: Museums Victoria Collection
Eyewear As Individual As You Are
Now stocking Paul Taylor Eyewear 7/68 Barkly Street, Mornington February 2024
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PENINSULA
Above: The ‘EB’ tractor on display in South Australia, 1979
EB tractor as a collector’s item Frank Chilcott’s farm implements were willed to his brotherin-law and it is believed that the tractor remained at Lillisden Park until after the death of Richard Bennetts in 1954. At some stage it was sold to Sandy Reith on Phillip Island where it was on display until being sold to South Australian collector Kevin Rohrlach in the 1970’s. Although the EB was on display at Rohrlach’s Museum at Siegersdorf in South Australia early this century, it then spent time in private ownership in the United States. It returned to Australia following its sale at auction in 2020 and was acquired by the National Museum of Australia in 2021 for $250,000.
References: Gooch, Ruth “Frontier French Island”, Prahran Mechanics’ Institute Press, 2006 Media release “McDonald EB tractor”, National Museum Australia, 16 May 2023.
E ssence
66 | PENINSULA
February 2024
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