Peninsula Essence February 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

FREE

PENINSULA Living & visiting on the Mornington Peninsula

Old-Fashioned Fun • Everyday Autism • Power Of Creativity • Natural Appreciation Loosie Goosie • Talking 'Bout Regeneration • The Place For A Clubhouse

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WWW.BALNARRINGDENTIST.COM.AU February 2022 PENINSULA |3

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contents Proudly published by

Leading 10. Old-Fashioned Fun Steve Morrison's passion for working with sustainably sourced timber has given birth to his latest venture - Grandpa's Toyworks. His workshop's motto reads, 'No batteries, no screens, just good old-fashioned fun'.

16. Everyday Autism Writers: Andrea Louise Thomas, Joe Novella, Erica Louise Photography: Yanni, Gary Sissons Creative: Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne Publisher: Melissa McCullough Advertising: Brooke Hughes, 0409 219 282 or email brooke@mpnews.com.au Phone: (03) 5974 9000 Registered address: 63 Watt Road, Mornington 3931

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).

Arts 18. Power Of Creativity McCrae music composer Roger Pell has been a musician for his whole life and writes music to create a felt experience. He believes music expresses the feeling of emotions and that creativity is not only critical to good mental health, but that it also expands one’s thinking.

22. Natural Appreciation For underwater photographer Steven Kuiter diving is not just about discovery and adventure, it’s also about conservation and nurturing an appreciation of the marine environment. He shares his work freely on Instagram for everyone to appreciate marine flora and fauna in all its infinite variety.

Eat & Drink 30. Loosie Goosie

www.peninsulaessence.com.au facebook/peninsulaessence Instagram @peninsulaessence

PEFC Certified This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources. www.pefc.org

Raising children on the autism spectrum comes with a unique set of challenges that many parents are unprepared for. Rosebud author Monique Cain is an avid supporter and spokesperson for spectrum families.

We talk to Something For Kate drummer Clint Hyndman about opening a new venture with a group of like minded friends. Loosie’s Diner and Bar in Mornington is the latest endeavour from the crew behind the local rock and roll dive bar, Wowee Zowee.

34. Talking 'Bout Regeneration Cover Image by Yanni From coastal Mt Eliza to the hinterland of Red Hill and beyond, wineries are peppered all over. It is said that the award winning Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs produced at some of these vineyards over the decades are responsible for putting the Mornington Peninsula on the map.

Every Month 8. Peninsula Styles 40. Crossword 42. Real Estate

In September 2021 John Vaughan received the inaugural Dr Allan Antcliff Vineyard of the Year award. This recognises the deep commitment of winemakers on the Mornington Peninsula to their craft and to conserving the environment and health of their vineyards.

Focus On 38. Focus On Red Hill Interesting facts, coffee safari, what to do and photos.

History 43. The Place For A Clubhouse The Harley Davidson Motor Cycle Club was one of a number of motor cycle clubs that had sprung up around 1920. Balnarring Beach had ticked all the boxes as the perfect location for their club house.

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February 2022

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The Dunes Golf Links + Links Lodge + Peninsula Hot Springs Golf, stay and wellness package

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Manyung Gallery Art voucher to the value of $1,000

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Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill Overnight luxury stay in the heart of Red Hill

Mornington Racecourse Neds Mornington Cup Day hospitality package

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Pt. Leo Estate Dining experiences at fine dining restaurant, Laura or the Wine Terrace

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Carmel at Sorrento + The Milbri Events

Overnight luxury apartment stay and dining experience in the heart of Sorrento for 18 people

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Spring into Summer SUMMER 21-22

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A U S T R A L I A N O W N E D & O P E R AT E D February 2022

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POLLY'S FARM Polly’s Farm Calendula, Lemon Myrtle & Australian Sweet Orange soap is handmade in Shoreham using Mornington Peninsula extra virgin olive oil. A beautiful artisan soap providing a powerhouse of nourishment, protection and moisturisation. pollysfarm.com.au

HOOK AND EYE Need a little something that will take you effortlessly from the beach to sunset drinks? The relaxed, easy to wear meadow jumpsuit in zebra is that little something. But be quick, limited stock available and new designs in March.

Available online hookandeye.com.au

Peninsula

ALBERT & DAPHNE Everybody’s favorite Rollie Nation Shoes now at Albert & Daphne!

They truly are the enemies of gravity.

103 Main Street, Mornington 5973 4411 albertanddaphne.com.au

Styles

LUDUCO LIVING Spektra – combines innovative timeless design with superb comfort and engineering . With over 80 different sofa and modular configurations, the choice of motor or manual recliner mechanisms, Nasa heart balance technology and more than 400 leather and fabric options the possibilities are endless.

Himolla - German design and manufacturing at its best!

Exclusive to Luduco Living luducoliving.com.au

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PRODUCTS FROM THE PENINSULA WE'RE SURE YOU WILL LOVE

MERCEDES-BENZ MORNINGTON The Perfect Drive to find your Perfect Drive.

When you take a test drive at Mercedes-Benz Mornington not only will you get to enjoy some of Victoria’s most beautiful seaside stretches of open road and spectacular sights – you will get the opportunity to fully appreciate what these machines were designed for.

Whether be it Saloon, Estate, Coupé, Cabriolet, Roadster, SUV or more, you will experience a blend of luxury, safety, sportiness and performance when you book a test drive at Mercedes-Benz Mornington.

29-31 Mornington-Tyabb Road Mornington 5923 0011 mbmornington.com.au facebook/mbmornington @mbmornington

What's on?Upcoming Peninsula Events WHERE'S WALLY HAPPINESS HUNT 1 - 28 FEBRUARY

Join in on the unique Where's Wally Happiness Hunt for some added fun to your day out! The excitement doesn't stop there!

In the Big Top marquee, you'll find colouring competitions and a character card challenge with awesome prizes to be won.

It's fun for the whole family 55 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat

www.enchantedadventure.com.au

MOUNT ELIZA COMMUNITY PANTOMIME 18, 19, 20 FEBRUARY

Join Jack and his family as they join forces with royalty to climb their backyard beanstalk and battle to save their village from a very hungry giant and his evil wife.

Cost: Adult $25, Child $12, Family (2A & 2C) $65 Check website for show times.

*FEBRUARY 2022

* Check with venue for any restrictions.

MT MARTHA BAREFOOT BOWLS 4, 11, 18, 25 FEBRUARY

SUMMER SESSIONS AT JIMMYRUM 5 FEBRUARY

www.mmbowls@mmbcinc.com.au

Free live music every Saturday night from 6.30pm 'til late.

Join in for a delicious dinner from our new Caribbean-inspired RumFish menu, or pop in for a pre or post-dinner cocktail.

Chill out to acoustic tunes or chilled Balearic beats from the rotation of musicians and DJs.

FRIENDS EVENT AT MPRG 21 FEBRUARY

MOUNT MARTHA BRIARS MARKET 27 FEBRUARY

Discover the fun of playing Barefoot Bowls over summer!

Bring your friends/family/ corporate groups – all abilities welcome.

Sausage Sizzle and drinks at Bar prices!

45 Watson Road, Mount Martha

www.jimmyrum.com.au/events

Garry Crittenden will be presenting a talk on the history of winemaking on the Mornington Peninsula at the Gallery.

Garry’s expertise in the art of viniculture is recognised throughout the wine industry in Australia. Wine tasting and nibbles will accompany Garry’s talk.

Discover a range of home-made, home-grown products, all while exploring the beautiful grounds, wildlife, walking trails, galleries and heritage homestead of the historic Briars. Purchase the freshest food, the most unique gifts and the most innovative homewares.

www.the.briars@mornpen.vic.gov.au

www.mprg@mornpen.vic.gov.au

www.trybooking.com/BVTOH

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McKENZIE LIBERAL FOR FLINDERS Zoe.Mckenzie@vic.liberal.org.au ZoeMckenzie.com.au ZoeMckenzieFlinders Authorised by Sam McQuestin, Liberal Party of Australia (Victorian Division), L12, 257 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000

February 2022

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OLD-FASHIONED fun

By Joe Novella Photos Gary Sissons

W

atching Steve Morrison and his wife Bonita stare out over their beautiful Mt Eliza property, you get a strong sense of the pride they feel for their special patch of the Peninsula. Their hard work has transformed their patch from bushland covered in brush and blackberry thickets, to a place of beautifully manicured gardens, fenced paddocks and wide-open spaces gently sloping down all the way to Balcombe Creek.

The Wooralla Drive property was an idyllic setting to raise the kids and is now a great place to entertain their seven grandkids, with plenty of space for the little ones to run wild. It's also the location for Steve's workshop–the birthplace of Grandpa's Toyworks - a project I'm keen to learn more about.

Steve had just got off the mower before our meeting and after a quick tour of his workshop he escorted me around the homestead, past two dogs that threatened to lick me to death, to a balcony with views of the acreage that makes up his backyard. "It's a stunning place," I said as I took a seat and took in the views.

He nodded and replied, "Yes, it is, and a lot of hard work." A fact echoed by his wife Bonita, who joined us with refreshments, but I got the feeling both of them don't mind rolling up their sleeves. In the background, I heard the sound of horses.

"Horses have for years been a part of our lives," Steve said as he pointed out towards agistment paddocks.

"My kids learned to ride here and as part of local pony clubs. We have always been part of the Peninsula's

equestrian community and I had a keen interest in breeding Andalusians, a Spanish breed. We no longer breed horses, but we continue to have them on the property as part of agistment services we provide."

Horses are not the only passion Steve has; he is also an avid woodworker. Steve's passion for working with sustainably sourced timber has given birth to his latest venture - Grandpa's Toyworks - and the reason for my visit. The workshop's motto reads, 'No batteries, no screens, just good old-fashioned fun' and it sure lives up to its motto producing handmade wooden toys based on designs that were popular decades ago when high-tech meant having brakes on your billy cart.

"We offer a growing range of toys," Steve said, "Billy carts, stilts, toddler trolleys, little wooden cars and trucks, wind wands, wind sabres, hopping kangaroos, Jacob's ladders, ball and cup games and many more. All of our raw materials for making these toys have been salvaged from worksites around the Peninsula or from local timber suppliers and are always FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) approved. Everything I offer for sale has been made here in my workshop using small power tools and by hand. I only make small batches and I'm constantly evolving my products and techniques."

For a long time, Steve's passion for woodworking played second fiddle to his professional career in printing and design. continued page 12...

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Photographer: Lillie Thompson

Mornington Showroom Now Open

Professional Installation Guaranteed Quality

Premium European Oak Timber Flooring 1/4 Torca Terrace, Mornington 439 Chapel St, South Yarra www.kustomtimber.com.au | (03) 9645 3857 February 2022

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I loved the idea and feel of working with wood from day one

"At school, I always thought I'd end up in a trade, but I discovered design and ended up doing a Diploma of Art and Design, majoring in Industrial Design. My qualification took me into packaging design initially, but soon on to graphic design and a long career in the printing, design and advertising industry.

"I bought a small design agency and enjoyed the cut and thrust of business life; the most rewarding part being growing the company and helping my employees develop into the best version of themselves. But the day came when I looked around the room and realised I was the oldest person there. I was also commuting from Mt Eliza to offices close to the city and later Moorabbin, and that was becoming too much. Time to sell up and retire, I thought."

Like a lot of retirees, Steve found the transition to retirement tough. "I just couldn't handle the boredom and lack of regimen to be honest." Not one to sit around, he looked for hobbies to keep him occupied, including reigniting his passion for woodworking.

"I loved the idea and feel of working with wood from day one when I discovered it as part of my education at Niddrie Tech, and it has never left me. So, when I retired at age 58, I decided to start up 'Steve the Handyman' doing small jobs for clientele, mainly from the local community. I did it for 12 years till I decided I really should retire, or at least slow down.

"And that's when I decided to revive an idea I had parked for many years: to make old-fashioned, handmade toys. Toys made the way they used to be, strong and solid. Toys like the ones I had as a child, like the ones I made for my kids. I still had all the tools, and I had a great workshop at home, and I had time, so why not?"

Georgia, Steve's third eldest daughter and a talented graphic designer and his wife Bonita, a qualified bookkeeper, were instrumental in helping Steve's toyshop vision come to life; Georgia building the website plus social media promotion and Bonita looking after the books. continued page 14...

continued next page...

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MORNINGTON PENINSULA OWNED AND MADE FOR YOU ENERGY EFFICIENT HIGH PERFORMANCE QUALITY GERMAN DESIGN CONTROL YOUR COMFORT with energy efficient uPVC windows and doors featuring aluplast-technology

YOUR PERFECT CHOICE Factory 1/ 7 Lyall Street, Hastings Phone: 5909 8040 or 0412 221 767 Email: contact@livingdesigndoubleglazing.com.au www.livingdesigndoubleglazing.com.au February 2022

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Steve's seven grandkids helped with testing the new toys, quality control and new product ideas, so all bases were covered. Once the business was up and running, Steve's greatest challenge quickly became keeping up with demand for his toys.

"So, any signs of retirement on the horizon?" I asked. "I don't think so," Steve laughed. "I'm in my seventies now, but I love what I do. It keeps me young and my mind focused, so I almost feel at one with the piece of wood I'm shaping. Most of all, I love the look on the faces of kids young and old, when they feel and play with my creations."

grandpastoyworks.com.au

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THE COMPETITION HOTS UP FOR BEST BITES PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS Does your local lunch spot encourage healthy eating?

Do you love the way your local takeaway outlet minimises the use of plastic? Have you noticed solar panels on your favourite restaurant’s roof? Do you have a café you always go to because they make it easy for you to wheel your pram in?

The award-winning Best Bites program is the Shire’s pledge to recognise and encourage excellence in local businesses that serve food.

Brunch with the family, coffee with friends, going out for dinner or just grabbing some takeaway now has even more meaning because you can also share the love further by nominating your favourite foodie spot for this year’s Best Bites People’s Choice Awards.

Nominate your favourite Best Bites café, restaurant or takeaway outlet by completing the online form at mornpen.vic. gov.au/bestbites.

By nominating your favourite Best Bites food business you will go into the draw to win a box of fresh, local produce to the value of $100! And supporting local cafes, restaurants and takeaway outlets is one way we can all make a difference.

Nominations for the 2021-22 Best Bites People’s Choice Awards close 8 March 2022.

To find ways you can support local business, visit website: mpbusiness.com.au/supportlocal

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EVERYDAY autism

By Erica Louise Photos Yanni

N

eurodiversity, the concept that certain developmental disorders are normal brain variations, is now widely accepted. However, raising children on the autism spectrum comes with a unique set of challenges that many parents are unprepared for.

Rosebud author Monique Cain has had first-hand experience of the complexities of raising two autistic children, and has become an avid supporter and spokesperson for spectrum families.

Monique’s daughter Madi was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. By this time, the couple had Thomas, their second child.

“We felt that something wasn’t quite right with Madi as she had delayed development compared to other children her age. But we were still shocked when we received the diagnosis. We knew nothing about autism.”

With a non-verbal toddler and a new baby, this was a difficult time for Monique and her husband. They took it upon themselves to learn as much as they could about autism and, as Thomas grew, the couple also noticed delays in his development. His behaviour presented differently to his sister, but Thomas’ language had not advanced by eighteen months, and he appeared to have sensory issues.

“We sought testing for Thomas because, by that time, we knew the importance of early intervention. At the age of two, Thomas was also diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).”

Family life revolved around the numerous appointments and therapies associated with children on the spectrum. The challenge of doing absolutely everything in her power to help her children impacted Monique's mental health.

“Our lives were full-on. On top of the appointments, we couldn’t go anywhere without Madi running off or someone commenting about behaviour, the way she dressed, or her unusual traits. I wasn’t coping and was offered counselling; the best thing I ever did.”

Monique’s counsellor suggested she take up writing as a way to express her thoughts. When Madi attended kindergarten, Monique saw an opportunity to write a story about her daughter’s differences.

She self-published her first book and took it into Madi’s class.

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“Her kinder teacher loved the book, saying how it helped her better understand Madi. She read the book to the grade, which encouraged questions from the other students. The book remained in class so that if other kids wanted to take a look, they could,” said Monique.

Writing became Monique’s therapy as she felt compelled to become her daughter’s voice while offering guidance to other families also dealing with the diagnosis of autism. She then wrote Madi Goes to School, a second story equally well received by her daughter’s primary school.

“The principal made every teacher at Madi’s primary school read Monique’s book so that all staff members would be aware, not just of Madi, but of all students who might act differently.”

Madi Goes to School became the second instalment in The Everyday Autism Series, with four Madi books released in 2016. Each story is written in a simple rhyming and informative way, to help children and adults understand autism. A fifth children’s story, inspired by Monique’s son and titled I Am Thomas, was released shortly after.

“Before kids, I had no idea what I wanted to do professionally.

After both our kids were diagnosed and our experiences, I knew exactly what I needed to do”.

Along with fellow local Kiran, who is also the mother of two autistic children, Monique is in the process of establishing Spectdrum, an online and offline support network for spectrum families. She does this while juggling her day job supporting her family’s accounting business and the sales management of her book series.

Through The Everyday Autism Series, Monique received a number of messages from parents after their child’s initial autism diagnosis. They weren’t sure what to do, who to see, or where to start. This need for information inspired Monique and Kiran to establish a judgement-free platform for people to connect with.

Spectdrum is about marching to the beat of your own drum and finding other people to march with

“Thomas had similar challenges, but these presented differently because everyone on the spectrum is different.

So I thought I had better do a boy version.”

Twelve months on, Monique published Never Give Up based on her family’s lived experiences with autism.

“I had been writing a blog for some time, so I combined all of my writings and poems and produced a book based on our family’s journey. Sharing the good, the bad and the ugly, I discuss what we did, who we saw, and what we learned along the way.”

Monique’s role as an autism advocate has grown across the Peninsula and in the wider community. As well as supporting differently-abled children through The Everyday Autism Series, Monique educates others to be kinder and more understanding of those with neurodevelopmental conditions.

“Spectdrum is about marching to the beat of your own drum and finding other people to march with.”

While Spectdrum is in its early web development stage, the website will include resources such as professional assistance available on the Mornington Peninsula, therapy sessions, as well as links to websites and further information.

“There is so much information out there that people don’t know where to find the information they need when faced with the initial diagnosis. We hope to change the status quo with Spectdrum.”

Plans for 2022 include inviting industry professionals to host interactive sessions and providing chances for local families to meet up and share their stories, successes, and challenges.

Follow Monique’s journey on theeverydayautismseries. com.au and be one of the first to sign up to Spectdrum at spectdrum.com.au.

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Arts Good music has healing qualities, we need to go to the abstract metaphor (the arts) to experience truth

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POWER OF creativity

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni McCrae music composer, Roger Pell, writes music to create a felt experience – a road map of the emotions. The essence of his work is about human behaviour. He believes music expresses the feeling of emotions and that creativity is not only critical to good mental health, but that it also expands one’s thinking.

To better understand what creativity is and how it works, he went to Arizona State University in the United States to study Creative Brain Functioning (what would now be called neuroscience) to learn how the brain creates and conveys ideas – the science of imagination. He applied this learning to his own creative process and to his work as a music teacher.

Roger has been a musician for his whole life. When he was eight, his family moved from Melbourne to London. There was a piano in the flat they rented and Roger quickly found himself playing, discovering patterns in sound. He played intuitively, as he knew little about music, but he quickly discovered how notes interrelated. continued next page...

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It was fortunate that his mother was musical and creative.; she played recorder in a quartet. She was a big supporter of the Australian Ballet so Roger saw many productions, taking in the visual and musical spectacle. They also visited art galleries in London and Melbourne which built a strong cultural foundation.

The value of expressing creativity was ingrained in his thinking.

At fifteen Roger discovered the guitar and it has been his lifelong companion. He began playing instinctively, intrigued at how rhythm made sense of sound. In fact, he never studied music formally. He listened and absorbed the abstraction of sounds. He taught himself to read music and he has been reading, writing about it, playing and teaching it ever since.

He went about learning music in unconventional ways. He would discover a musician whom he admired, establish a connection and travel to study with him/her. He also studied classical guitar in Frankfurt, Germany and in Seattle. He studied tabla and rhythmic singing at the International Academy of Indian Music in Delhi, India.

According to Roger, the guitar is a particularly intuition-based instrument and he believes most musicians initially approach it this way before they can read music. He says every musician interprets time and tone differently and expresses it uniquely, like a musical fingerprint, and that’s their gift as all art is about individuality.

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Over the years as a professional musician, Roger has done it all.

He has performed solo and played in bands and ensembles. He has had record contracts, recorded albums, toured and played with ensembles whose main focus was improvisation. He has also composed for television and film. What satisfies him most is sharing and conveying ideas through music.

Roger has spent the majority of his professional life as a music teacher. From the Riverina Conservatorium of Music to schools

across the Mornington Peninsula to private tuition in his studio, sharing knowledge and insight with students and other musicians is a pleasure. He believes anyone can read and play music. “All human beings are musical. If you can walk and talk you’ve got rhythm and sound,” he says.

Roger has published a comprehensive collection of nine innovative guitar manuals called Macrocosmos for Guitar, which he spent many years working on. They cover finger style, plectrum and bass guitar. “My books helped clarify my role as a music educator,” he says.

The series of books, which can be used both for teaching and learning, are geared from pre-teens to conceptual artists featuring new methods and his own original compositions, intended as he says, “to advance the human condition when making music on the guitar.”

Roger has been a musician, composer, author and sculptor over the course of his life, a creative diversity illustrating that creative people are often creative in many ways. “I am fascinated by human emotion and in particular, the emotional response to music,” he says.

According to Roger, “Good music has healing qualities; we need to go to the abstract metaphor (the arts) to experience truth.

Serious music is more about investing in truth than entertainment.

With acquired listening skills it can extend the emotional horizons of our being.”

“We must be cautious our emotional awareness is not diminished by technology’s ability to model perfection because self-expression embraces imperfection. Music is therapy and an antidote to being precise. We need emotional content to connect to our humanity.

That’s what the arts do for you. The abstract world of the arts offers unconditional freedom,” he says. rpmacromusic.com.au

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NATURAL appreciation

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni & Supplied

F

or underwater photographer Steven Kuiter, diving is not just about discovery and adventure, it’s also about conservation and nurturing an appreciation of the marine environment. He shares his photos freely on Instagram because he wants people to see and appreciate marine flora and fauna in all its infinite variety.

He points out that, unlike furred and feathered animals, “People don’t anthropomorphise sea life so they are not as sympathetic.

They don’t realise that marine creatures also have memory and experience grief and pain.”

Steve noticed that a particular ray recognises him.

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He removed a hook from its mouth and now when the ray has some trouble, it comes to him for help. He loves the rays, but his favourite sea animal is the smart and curious blue ringed octopus.

"Yes," he notes, "it is venomous, but not aggressive. There have only been three bite fatalities in the world."

When he goes off for a shore dive, Steve enjoys talking to the local fishermen and educating them about marine life as he has a wealth of knowledge. He has seen their attitudes and behaviour change which warms his conservationist heart.

Growing up in Seaford, Steve was always near the sea, but his father’s work also had a major influence on him. His dad,

Rudie Kuiter, originally worked for Nexus as an electronics engineer developing underwater housing for Nikon camera equipment.

It’s a whole different world down there.

It’s surreal.

Rudie was an avid diver and underwater photographer. Over time he became more interested in what he was photographing than engineering so he became an ichthyologist (a fish expert). He has published numerous photo-illustrated guides to fishes of the world.

Father and son have now teamed up to publish a new comprehensive book, Fish Watchers Guide to Coastal Sea-Fishes of South-Eastern Australia featuring some of Steve’s photos. It’s already virtually sold out. Next, they will be working on a new book about marine fauna of Port Phillip Bay.

Creating awareness of the natural world is what sparked Steve’s interest in photography. Studying photography in high school, he was not very interested in photo theory or the course’s focus on architecture and manmade environments. He was drawn to nature. Night photography and macrophotography with a focus on birds and critically endangered species was his interest.

He is surprised by how little people know about native flora and fauna, particularly the marine environment, so bringing awareness is important to him. He also likes to photograph things people can’t see like bioluminescence and the Aurora Australis using long exposure. continued next page...

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While he had been snorkelling for some time and taking his GoPro to capture what he saw, it wasn’t until he got his diving licence four years ago that he got serious about underwater photography. Now he shoots with a Nikon D810 with a 105mm macro lens and a couple of SB105 flashes though he still takes the trusty GoPro in case something big shows up.

Photo by Steven Kuiter

Steve dives three to four times a week. It’s usually a shore dive at night from Blairgowrie, which he considers the best spot in Port Phillip Bay. He often dives with noted free diver Jules Casey, aka ‘One Breath Diver’.

“Every night we go out, our aim is to find something new.

The best things come out at night It’s a whole different world down there. It’s surreal. It’s adventure time when you’re down there. It’s so free,” he says.

In order to capture wildlife, both sea and terrestrial, Steve uses red light because animals and sea creatures are not bothered by it.

That way he can capture them going about their normal activities.

Photo by Steven Kuiter

Steve has found some very rare things diving. At the Fossil Site in Beaumaris, he found the fabled Leviathan tooth (think Moby Dick, a whale the size of a bus that ate other whales).

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That tooth is larger than the tooth of a Tyrannosaurus Rex! It weighs 2.7kg. He donated it to the Melbourne Museum.

His interest in photographing rare and endangered species turned out to be a great asset in his rescue work.

Volunteering as a wildlife rescuer for Animalia Wildlife Shelter in Frankston is another one of Steve’s passions. When marine life is involved he gets the call, but he also assists with transportation of injured wildlife and other difficult cases.

Fostering awareness, appreciation and conservation of the natural world are the heart and soul of all he does.

Instagram@stevenkuiter

Photo by Steven Kuiter

WHAT DO YOU THINK? HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL?

‘Can a solar panel really make a drawing?’

‘I’m interested in what’s happening.’

‘Watching this makes me feel relaxed.’

MORNINGTON PENINSULA REGIONAL GALLERY

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February 2022

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KIMBERLEY OCHRES POP UP AT EVERYWHEN While the Summer Collector's Show at Everywhen Artspace continues, a pop-up exhibition of paintings in natural ochres from the Kimberley features for a week in February.

Works include those by some of the most famous Kimberley artists such as Mabel Juli, Shirley Purdie, Queenie McKenzie and Gordon Barney as well as a range of mid-career and rising star younger generation painters. " The textures and colours of natural ochres from the Kimberley really set these works apart,” says Everywhen's co director Susan McCulloch. ' Most of the works are from the Aboriginal-owned art centres, Warmun Art Centre and Waringarri Arts based at Kununura with whom we’ve worked for many years.”

As well as works of their country and its creation stories by the most well-known artists, the show also includes a range of other styles and imagery. These include works on paper depicting the wildlife of the coastal community of Kalumburu, representations of the distinctive Wandjina figures and paintings by rising star artists such as Louise Malarvie who paints the concept of sparkle of the light flicking over the waves of her country’s vast interior lake, Lake Gregory, and a new generation of Warmun artists such as Evelyn Malgil whose works combine acrylic and ochre to create an exciting new dynamic in this ever-evolving art movement.

Kimberley Ochres Pop Up runs from February 11-18 and the Summer Collector’s Show 2022 runs until February 21.

EVERYWHEN ARTSPACE A: 39 Cook St, Flinders P: 5989 0496 E:info@everywhenart.com.au W: everywhenart.com.au Open: Fridays-Mondays, 11am-4pm. Appointments preferred.

Check website for details and how to book.

Louise Malarvie, Nyabal Nyabal, 80 x 100 cm

Gordon Barney, Birrno Country, 90 x 90 cm

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February 2022

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February 2022

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COLLAGE ART FOR WELLBEING Award-winning peninsula-based artist, writer and creative producer Emma Anna is looking forward to bringing her worldclass art to Frankston with the support of an Artist Project Grant from Frankston City Council.

A graduate of RMIT’s Masters of Arts (Art in Public Space program), Anna has been creating ‘unique, humorous, colourful and interactive installations’ for over 15 years for both government and non-government entities.

Todo Loco (‘All Crazy’) is the fourth edition of an international collage exhibition curated since 2016. The artworks are selected via an international call for artist submissions with the theme ‘Pandemonium’.

‘The exhibition will be an insight into the ways in which collage has been used by artists as a means to express concerns, fears, hopes and emotional responses to the current global pandemic and more generally to the state of the world.’

Despite the pandemic’s impact on travel opportunities for Anna, she was able to continue creating her work, experimenting with and reimagining new materials (such as newspaper and junk mail). She describes this opportunity as a ‘classic case of artistic invention’.

‘Generally my practice has not been too affected by the pandemic, other than the constraints on travel.’

‘I was working on public art projects in Australia, Colombia and the US. Not being able to travel freely meant that the projects had to be managed remotely; however, this has been a trait of my practice for over a decade.’

‘I found myself well-equipped to cope with this challenge however it has been disappointing not be able to attend major projects for which I was commissioned to create new work, such as Swell Sculpture on the Gold Coast in October 2021.’

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Anna is well-known in the international collage community, especially after her selection as the 2020 World Collage Day Artist.

‘It is a medium I use throughout my practice as a means of problem solving, record keeping and creatively processing the challenges of life!

‘Collage is an accessible art form that does not require fine arts training and therefore has great appeal to diverse audiences. I am interested in how collage can be used to inspire creativity and social cohesion in community environments.’

Anna hopes that the local community will respond to her work by contributing to the exhibition, attending workshops and visiting the exhibition when it arrives in Frankston later this year.

She looks forward to opening a discussion about ‘the role of creativity in maintaining mental health and consequently healthy communities.’

Frankston Council significantly expanded its Community and Business Grants program during the pandemic to support artists and creatives.

Designed to help artists and those working in creative industries to pursue their passion while delivering culturally important work to the community, they included Artist Project Grants and Professional Development Grants.

This was a result of the $6.434 million Relief and Recovery Package, which the council created to help Frankston City recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information about artist grant recipients and projects, visit

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Eat & Drink

LOOSIE goosie

By Lilian Bernhardt Photos Supplied

L

oosie’s Diner and Bar in Mornington is the latest endeavour from the crew behind the local rock and roll dive bar, Wowee Zowee. Clint Hyndman (Something For Kate drummer and owner of Yellow Bird in Windsor), Simon Tarlington (Executive Chef at Jackalope), Cam Marshall (winemaker), and Craig Baum (fit-out expert/fisherman) decided to open Loosie’s Diner and Bar as a group of friends, and fathers, consistently seeking new things and places to add to the mix.

Loosie’s is American inspired and largely influenced by the ‘dingy’ diners found throughout Los Angeles during the 1970s. Loosie’s diverges from the full dive bar style of Wowee Zowee, to offer more food options and create an inclusive environment, whilst still honouring the idea of getting loose. Hence naming the bar after the most popular cocktail at Wowee Zowee, ‘Loosie Goosie.’

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We wanted to do something that was a bit more family-friendly

“We wanted to do something that was a bit more family-friendly. A place where parents can have a drink or two, and also bring the kids. It’s a place where you can get a cold beer off the tap, but you can also have your kids with you, and they can munch on a burger” Hyndman said.

The menu seeks to showcase the food talent of Simon Tarlington, with what Hyndman describes as ‘quality, greasy, diner food’. Fried chicken and waffles, a variety of burgers, and loaded fries are some highlights of the menu. Cookies and cream sundaes and the classic apple pie with whipped cream offer sweet options for dessert.

Loosies serves a list of American soft drinks such as A&W Root beer and Dr Pepper, as well as Pabst Blue Ribbon on tap. A variety of cocktails are available to choose from, their most popular being the ‘Boozy Suzy,’ which is pink prosecco and tequila based. Aiming to please the locals as well, Loosie’s also stocks a wide range of local craft beer and wines.

“We aren’t a cheesy American diner, we haven’t gone the full way, but we’ve taken the things we like and added the stuff that makes it our own and gives it an Australian feel. We wanted the American diner feel without making it a copy,” Hyndman said.

The fit-out was designed by Craig Baum, Clint Hyndman & Interior Design duo Life Installers, and intends to transport visitors into the full 70’s vibe. The warm interior wood panelling, unique light fixtures, green booth seating, and bar stools, and lightboard menu and cocktail list work well to achieve this. Complementing this are the many pictures of artists, musicians, and cultural icons from the era placed everywhere around the venue.

“The way we’ve decked it out with pictures inside has been influenced by 1970’s culture. The pictures are there to keep you in the vibe as well as to be great conversation starters to take you away from your mobile phone and soak up what’s happening in the bar,” Clint said.

continued next page...

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The crew all live on the Peninsula, and Hyndman grew up in Rosebud before leaving for Melbourne at 20 to pursue his music career as a drummer and start the band Something For Kate.

Bartending is something Hyndman loves and says he has always wanted to pursue. His hospitality career began in 2007, when a one-year hiatus from his band led him to open the bar Yellow Bird, on Chapel St. He originally said he never wanted to return to the Peninsula, but after moving home with his wife and three children now never wants to leave.

“I think it’s the best place to grow up and now I know why my parents moved down here, and many of my friends are moving down here as well,” he said.

After running Yellow Bird for a decade, Hyndman wanted to create something similar on the Peninsula to create a bar culture he felt was missing. He runs and works at the bar in all his venues, aiming to create a welcoming environment.

“The bar at Loosie’s is set up with fifteen bar stools, and the idea is that anyone can sit at the bar and talk. It's that old bar culture, talking to a bartender, and just relaxing and losing yourself in the space. Having a burger, and ideally forgetting about anything that’s going on in your life,” Hyndman said.

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Music is an essential part of Hyndman’s life, having drummed in his band for over two decades, and it also plays a large role in his approach to front-of-house proceedings. Loosie’s took influence from touring across the United States, where Hyndman noted the necessity for diners to play the right music to create an atmosphere.

“The one thing that places get right, I think, is getting the music right, and getting that feel,” he said.

“The soundtrack has always been a big thing for me with bars, it sets the tone and it sets the vibe of what we do.”

Hyndman meticulously crafts his playlists, which at Loosies, consist mostly of classic ‘dad-rock’ of the 70’s to create an atmosphere that you can get lost in. “We want it to feel like you’re somewhere completely different,” he said.

Come March the team's newest venture, Slim's Hot Pizza, a pizza/bar will open in Mt Eliza.

If you’re looking to be transported from the suburban seaside of the Peninsula into a boozy 70’s time capsule, Loosie's is open for service Wednesday-Sunday 4:30 till late. loosiesdiner.com.au

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Eat & Drink

It just starts with one person, you’ve just got to start and it’s happening, it’s really good

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February 2022

TALKING 'BOUT regeneration

By Zahrah Ahmad Photos Gary Sissons

J

oe Vaughan has owned his vineyard for the past 25 years.

When he was looking for a site in 1996, he chose to settle in Tuerong on the Mornington Peninsula and '100 Hunts' vineyard is now one of the larger vineyards in the area. He grows Pinot Noir, Shiraz, White Chardonnay, Fiano, Traminer, Muscat Blanc A Petits Grains (Muscat Blanc), Pinot Gris and Friulano.

In September 2021, Vaughan received the inaugural Dr Allan Antcliff Vineyard of the Year award. This recognises the deep commitment of winemakers on the Mornington Peninsula to their craft and to conserving the environment and health of their vineyards. The leading industry viticulturists and judges, Dr Mary Retallack, Dr Mark Walpole and John Whiting felt Vaughan’s practices stood out. “Vaughan demonstrated an attention to detail, integrated thinking, a capacity to innovate and a great deal of resourcefulness,” Dr Retallack said.

The award not only honours Vaughan’s work but will provide him with a $5,000 travel grant to further his understanding of sustainable practices. “Joe demonstrated to the judges his experience and resourcefulness in achieving a nice balance with a low input, sustainable system for his vineyard,” Dr Walpole said.

Mornington Peninsula Wine CEO, Olivia Barrie believes the award is an important part of nurturing sustainable viticulture practices in the growing wine community.

Vaughan began working in vineyards in Dromana thirty years ago. He then went on to do maintenance for different farms around the Peninsula, gaining a lot of experience working with different vines and observing the practices employed by viticulturists in the area.

Everybody grows their vineyards differently but there’s no right or wrong way,” Joe said. He believes that the farming community is moving away from destructive methods.

When he established 100 Hunts Road, many harmful practices were used that disturbed the soil. “Change just starts with one person; you’ve just got to start and it’s happening,” Vaughan said.

He uses regenerative practices which provide the conditions so that the soil and vines can thrive and grow. “Sustainable is essentially damage and repair whereas if you’re regenerating, you’re really making it better,” Vaughan said. Damaging practices include heavy use of herbicides, fertilisers and other synthetic chemicals.

“I think people are learning more now about what is required and what is really, sustainable,” he said.

Vaughan focuses a lot on mulching and composting to improve the soil and vines. He has spent a long time refining his mulch composition and makes his own organic sprays. “The compost consists of a blend of grape marc from some local wineries, wood chips from tree loppers, commercial mulch, horse stable manure from local racehorse trainers, grass clippings from mowing services, and old silage and hay from nearby farms. It is turned often and takes about six to eight months to become completed compost,” he said.

Regenerative farming requires a lot of time spent observing growth and this is what Joe loves about viticulture.

“It is most important to have feet and eyes in the vineyard all the time, looking at the condition of the vines,” he said.

100hunts.com.au

Having helped many of the vineyards that started up back then, starting his own vineyard with his wife, Amanda, felt like a natural progression.

Today, Joe is still eager to get out among the vines and dig around in the soil. “My interest in vineyards and growing a vineyard is a bit historical I suppose,” Joe said. He enjoys being able to nurture the growth of his vines and find new ways to improve his farming practices.

What really matters to Joe is that his vineyard, the earth and ecology is thriving.

“We’re still learning about it. You just have to observe and get back to basics.

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4236Watt Rd, Mornington February 2022 | | PENINSULA

(03) 5975 0344

|

info@sorrentofurniture.com.au

WANT TO LEARN ABOUT BACKYARD HENS? OPEN WEEKEND 19TH AND 20TH MARCH 2022

The growing popularity of owning backyard hens has largely been due to families wanting to become more self-sustainable.

So why is keeping backyard hens so good for your family?

Well, hens make for fantastic pets! Our breed of hens are Hy-line Browns which are extremely friendly and placid. They love company and like nothing more than to spend time interacting with their owners. We hear lots of entertaining stories from our customers such as their hens going on school runs, on swings with the kids and happily jumping up onto their laps.

Good egg-laying breeds like our Hy-Line also quickly pay for themselves by providing your family with highly nutritious and delicious eggs throughout the year. Their eggs are high in protein and minerals but low in calories. You also have peace of mind knowing exactly how your hens are treated and what food they have eaten.

We are holding our 3rd Annual - Open Weekend on the 19th & 20th of March 2022 from 10am to 4pm. It’s a great chance to visit the farm and see what keeping backyard chickens is all about. There will be a range of fun activities for the kids such as a petting zoo, face painting, craft activities, presentation on backyard hens and more!

Come visit us!......

3590 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks Call Jason: 0406 691 231 Open Thu to Mon 10am - 4pm (Closed Tue & Wed) W: TalkingHens.com.au

Of course, you can’t get more “local” food than what you get from your own backyard! When combined with a vegetable garden, your family becomes far more self-sufficient and able to live more sustainably. If you really had to avoid social contact, your hens and vegetables could keep your household well fed over the long-term.

Hen ownership also teaches children some important, practical lessons about life. Not only do they need to be responsible for feeding and providing water for their hens but they must collect eggs daily and keep the coop clean and safe. Excess eggs can also be sold or given away to friends and neighbours which is a great way of benefiting others in your local community.

Looking for backyard hens but unsure where to start?

Open Weekend 19th and 20th March 2022

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February 2022

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Focus On

on

Red Hill

Red Hill is 73 kilometres south of Melbourne, located in the hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula, between the coastal towns of Dromana and Balnarring. It has a population of approximately 1900 including Red Hill South and is very much a rural area, with the 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.

are boutique wineries, offering visitors the

• Red Hill Post Office opened on 1 August 1871.

the landscape consisting of scenic hills and native forests. Scattered throughout the area is a proliferation of vineyards, orchards and berry farms. Many of the vineyards 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.

•

• 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.

Red Hill is very much a rural area, with

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

• 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.

events, including the popular Red Hill Show

• Wine lovers unite at the annual Winter Wine Weekend in June, and join in the fun and sample more than 200 premium wines from some 50 wineries before exploring local cellar doors.

grown and available seasonally at the farm

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and the peninsula's premier art show - Art Red Hill.

•

Strawberries, cherries and apples are

door.

•

The median house price for Red Hill is

$2,675,000.

Coffee Safari

Freshly brewed coffee is a must-have 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.

Epicurean

165 SHOREHAM ROAD Great coffee made on the premises, great service and awesome bakery treats in the front part of the building.

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 food for all tastes and budgets.

Red Hill Bakers 141 SHOREHAM ROAD

Bread and delicious treats baked fresh daily, and baristas are standing by to satisfy your caffeine fix. Also fully stocked with take home meals, salads, pies and cakes.

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.

What to do Whether it’s driving through the scenic hills and native forests, 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, offering 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 cafes, bakeries, galleries and shady laneways with hidden delightful day spas and art exhibitions.

Photos: Yanni

Proudly boasting Scandi taste and style with coffee made with Allpress coffee beans, don’t just drop past Red Hill’s Nordie Café on your way to somewhere else, make this your next brunch destination. There’s a child-friendly herb garden, plus you can drop in any day you like.

Nordie Cafe is open seven days a week.

BEST BITES AWARD WINNER

1008 Mornington-Flinders Rd Red Hill 5989 2171 l nordie.com.au February 2022

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Puzzle

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ACROSS

1. Repositioned 6. Confused noise 10. Apprenticed 15. Amongst 18. In name only 19. Urbanised (5-2) 20. Sobbed 22. Courteous 23. US cotton state 24. Cheap in quality 25. Earl Grey or jasmine 26. Trimmed (nails) 28. Oven clock 30. Sleazy hangout 31. Small medicine bottle 32. Tired reflex 33. Paradise 34. Give speech 35. Mete (out) 37. Point of perfection 39. Occupy with personnel 40. Kill (2,2) 42. Wheels' outer edges 45. Pizza herb 48. Spouse 49. Bangkok native 50. Most compressed 53. Tiny piece 54. Unskilful 56. Aslant 59. Conceal 61. Centre of activity 62. Crumbly Greek cheese 63. US naval base, ... Diego 64. Decompose 65. Actor, ... McGregor 66. Forensic ID check, ... test (1,1,1) 68. Disengaged 69. Pimple 70. Spaciousness 71. Moderate 72. Crone 73. Long pasta strands 74. As well as 76. Evoke 78. Constantly active (2,3,2) 80. Govern 81. Artificial sweetener 84. Re-equip with weapons 85. Phone pioneer, Alexander ... Bell 87. People living overseas 89. Senior (rank)

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92. Contrivance 94. Dedicatory verses 96. Progressed 97. Conferred holy orders on 98. Defective rounds of ammunition 100. Ran 101. Comic pantomime woman 104. Wings it (2-4) 105. Feet-first (birth) 107. Fist, bunch of ...

108. Conclusion 112. Circle (globe) 113. Shaft of natural light 115. Cunning 117. Flame-coloured 118. Positioning 120. ABBA song, Mamma ...

121. Fenced-in area 123. Thoroughly compelling 125. Digital video disc (1,1,1) 126. Sterility 127. Nucleus 129. Festival 130. Bullfight cheer 131. Slippery fish 133. Warty amphibian 134. Gentle stroke 136. Nepal's neighbour 137. Cast-making powder, plaster of ...

140. Throwaway remark 141. Turkish hat 142. Hurries busily 146. Star of sitcom 30 Rock, ... Baldwin 147. Ploy 148. Part exchange (5-2) 152. Croak 154. Slavic person 155. Argentina's ... Peron 156. Divorce, decree ...

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February 2022

monsters 175. Pallid 177. Cut with scissors 178. Intern 179. Major Canadian city 180. Reasonable 181. Priest's residence 182. Tripled 183. Clamminess DOWN

1. Gather (crops) 2. Spry 3. Attaching 4. Sporting strategy (4,4) 5. Libyan currency 6. Cocktail, pina ...

7. Achievement 8. Decorative 9. Money-back offer 10. Characteristic style 11. Force to abdicate 12. Marriage ceremony proceedings 13. Water For Elephants actress, ... Witherspoon 14. Task 16. School maxim 17. Baby's napkin 20. Anglers' boots 21. ... Penh, Cambodia 27. Spectators 29. Faux pas 35. Slimmed 36. Blaring 38. Encrypts 41. Nincompoop 43. Craving 44. Iced dessert 46. Wrapping 47. Bird cages 51. Unassisted vision (5,3) 52. Diggers 55. Walks quietly 56. Antiquated 57. From Dublin or Cork 58. Rural vehicle 60. Ore vein 67. Bickering 69. South Pacific nation, New ...

72. Scathing (criticism) 75. US 10-cent coins 77. Quick-tempered

79. Art of animal skinstuffing 82. Parody 83. Greed 86. In vain, to no ...

88. Energetic 90. Hospital ward (1,1,1) 91. Owns 92. Fuss 93. Lump of turf 94. Ill-matched 95. Shady tree 98. Delay 99. Split up 102. Yolk surrounds 103. The E of ESP 104. Companions 106. Friendly 108. Unfathomable 109. Conspiracy to accuse (5-2) 110. Syringe tips 111. Home sellers (6,6) 114. Of newborn 116. And so forth (2,6) 119. Participate in (competition) 122. Infuriate 124. Recolours 125. Move feebly 128. Oriental market 130. Overweight 132. Raises 135. Pinafore tops 138. Adequate 139. Nonsensical 141. Clear (weather) 143. Maintenance 144. Woven artwork 145. Ballpark figure 149. Good ... to bad rubbish 150. Prolongs (5,3) 151. Personal values 153. Pale-faced 158. Pyromaniac's crime 161. Intense 163. Went hungry 166. Of sheep 168. Child minder 170. Nomadic Muslims 172. Shark fin 173. Invitation reply (1,1,1,1) 176. Dampens

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Real Estate

MID CENTURY ALLURE

SUN-DRENCHED FAMILY HOME IN GOLDEN MILE LOCATION Enjoying an inspiring aspect, this timeless mid-century classic is a celebration of not just the period, but a showpiece of detailed quality, beautiful proportions and light-laden living spaces.

The seamless harmony that spans the spectacular 1361 square metre landscape provides reassuring privacy and seclusion with the elegant four-bedroom home a safe sanctuary amongst the evergreen surroundings.

The elevated entrance opens to reveal a breezy gallery-style foyer with engineered oak floorboards spanning a wonderfully fluid floorplan.

A spacious formal lounge room around to the left has an open fire place, and there is a delightful conservatory dining area immediately accessible from the crisp white kitchen with beautiful stone benchtops and marble tile splashbacks.

A casual family zone incorporates a lovely second lounge, also with feature fireplace, there is a dry-bar and a designated study nook. Revelling in the lush evergreen outlook, highlighted by bursting pops of springtime colour, this meandering entertainers delight has great flow and an easy transition from indoor to outdoor zones with an array of full-length windows and glass sliding doors.

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Mesmerising from the first moment, the fabulous solar heated in-ground swimming pool and sweeping outdoor deck – again, perfectly landscaped - captures your immediate attention to evoke a true resort class vibe where summer afternoons can be spent enjoyed in sun or shade. Rounding out this stellar home are three excellent bedrooms, all with built-in robes, and each with their own distinct features including an ensuite and private Juliet balcony to the larger master bedroom. Nestled downstairs is a spacious and versatile rumpus room, or fourth bedroom, complete with adjoining laundry and powder room.

A full list of quality inclusions really add that extra value and wow factor that buyers at this price point will be seeking. Throughout the home are air-conditioning units and ceiling fans, gas ducted heating, an elevated rear deck off the second bedroom and substantial sub-level storage space in addition to the large single garage with separate driveway. Tranquil in appeal and considered in its layout, this sensational family home will capture your heart.

Address: 11 Crawford Street MOUNT ELIZA FOR SALE: $2,100,000 - $2,300,000 - 4 BR, 2 Bath, 1 car AGENT: Meg Emond 0400 190 242, Belle Property, 204 Main Street, Mornington, 9787 1200 EMAIL: meg.emond@belleproperty.com

History

Above: Club members and friends at The Harley Club, circa 1935

The Place For A Club House

By Ilma Hackett (Balnarring and District Historical Society)

T

his was it; the perfect location for their club house. Ever since the Harley Davidson Club had returned from their trip to South Australia, members had been looking for a beach setting similar to the one at Sellicks Beach where the South Australia club met. Balnarring Beach, ticked all the boxes.

Beginnings The Harley Davidson Motor Cycle Club was one of a number of motor cycle clubs that had sprung up around 1920. Motorcycles had become popular after World War I as an efficient and relatively inexpensive form of transport for working men. Developed during the war years as a form of military transport they were promoted for civilian use after war’s end. With a side car attached they were used as a work vehicle or a means of transport for a small family.

Moreover, there was the sports aspect. The motorcycle could be raced and used competitively. The number of enthusiasts grew and clubs formed.

The inaugural meeting of the Harley Davidson Club took place at the Ritz Café in Lonsdale Street on the evening of 5 February, 1924.

Forty people attended. A name for the club was decided and office bearers elected. The first president was Mr Peers and Mr Cripps was elected the first Club Captain. The Club’s opening event was a run to Barwon Heads in which mostly cycles with side cars participated.

During the following months reliability trials on public roads throughout the state took place often during the winter months.

Some were twenty-four-hour, non-stop affairs. Over the summer of 1925-26 a Christmas tour to Adelaide was organised. Thirtyone sidecars and two solo cycles took part. The South Australian Harley Club had a club house at Sellicks Beach near Adelaide where races and trials took place on the wide stretch of beach and families enjoyed the beach setting. The Victorian group returned with the goal of finding a site close to a suitable sandy beach and at a convenient distance from the city. continued next page...

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Above: The Cherro Tea Rooms, Tulum, 1923 Below right: The Harley Club House under construction, 1926

A Club House at Balnarring Beach Land at Tulum or Balnarring Beach was being vigorously advertised in the early 1920’s. Ever since the road had been put through to the coast and a bridge built across the creek, the beach had been a popular destination for picnickers, fishermen and campers. It had a small, sheltered cove between two low headlands and also a long, sandy beach backed by low dunes and a shelter of trees. The popularity of the place was increasing year by year.

Subdivision had opened up land for purchase and after World War I lots sold quickly. Tulum had a store that was open during the summer and, from 1923, a well-patronised tea rooms. The Cheero Tea Rooms became a popular destination for Harley Club members on a day’s run from Melbourne. In 1926 two lots on the rise of land to the north of the bridge were bought by Milledge Bros (importers of the Harley- Davidson motorcycles). Plans were drawn up by R, Myers, the club’s president at the time, and work began to build a weatherboard club house. Money was raised mainly from football sweeps among the hundreds of motor cyclists who congregated along Elizabeth Street on a Friday night. Work was done at weekends throughout winter by volunteers. Member Reg Bennett recalled riding down to a working bee carrying timber in his side car. By the end of the year the first section had been completed.

An article in The Herald newspaper of 8 December, 1926 covered the opening. Mr Cottman, of Milledge Bros, declared it open.

Presentations were made and an award given to the club captain, Mr

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Arthur Hauser, who had recently won a hill climb. The organisers had wanted a large turnout and the opening attracted more than 110 motorcycles and side cars, three charabancs and thirty cars.

Membership had grown rapidly during 1926 and the Australasian, (23 October, 1926) reported that the club had 200 members with an average increase of twelve new members each month.

The club house was intended as a centre where members and their families could come at weekends and holidays for both social and sporting events. It was also a place where trophies could be displayed. The manufacturers of the Harley Davidson were full of praise for this new club and the work done by its members. It gave

held on 18 December, 1928. The building consisted of two smaller rooms used as bedrooms, a larger space divided into a dining/ living area, a general hall and what was described as an ‘up-to datekitchen’ and ‘fully equipped bathroom’ area. Two toilets, one for men and one for women, were outside. The Adelaide Advertiser described it as “the best of its kind in Victoria”, adding that it was “wonderfully fitted with radio”. On a less happy note, the club house was broken into that year with £50 worth of things stolen, including a gramophone and records. Carpet, bedding and kitchen utensils also disappeared.

the club publicity in its magazine, The Harley Davidson Enthusiast.

This new club won the organisation’s trophy for the club doing “most number of miles on social runs over the year”. Seventy-five countries had competed.

Ten months after the club house was opened work began on extensions which were finished in time for the official opening

The Club was now known as the Harley Club of Victoria. The name change occurred in July, 1928. It wasn’t a club exclusively for owners of Harley Davidson machines; all motorcycle owners were invited to join, as they had been since the beginning. The Cheero Tea Rooms had become a favourite meeting place for club members. Maud Strain provided cooked meals for them during working bees and she had fitted the shop with tables and chairs, making it more of a cafe. Later the club’s Wings insignia was fixed above the doorway where it remained for many years. continued next page...

Above: The completed Club House, circa 1929 Below: The Harley Club from across the bridge, circa 1930

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Above: Members and machines, circa 1929 Below: Club picnic day on the beach, circa 1928

from the continuous stream of motor cycles racing, joy riding and stunting throughout the whole day. People making the complaints pointed out that they objected not to the cyclists themselves but to the misuse of the beach.

The club responded, pointing out that it had been given council permission to hold the races and that speeding and stunting had not been done by members of its club as there were strict guidelines.

The club also pointed out that races had taken place on the beach five miles from the Tulum campgrounds and community. However this beach fronted the new community of East Balnarring, later Somers, recently subdivided and opening up. In order to work with the community several club members attended the inaugural meeting of the East Balnarring & Palm Beach Residents Association in 1927 and two of its members were elected to the committee.

To race or not to race on the beach The first of the beach races was organised in 1927. It took place along the ‘fine stretch of sandy beach admirably suited to racing’, the long straight section between Balnarring and East Balnarring (later Somers). It was a highly successful day but the races immediately raised opposition from property holders and other beach goers.

Newspapers in November 1927 were full of letters of complaint.

The motor cyclists “monopolised the beach”. “The nuisance has become intolerable both for noise and speeding besides being highly dangerous to picnickers”. Someone pointed out that motorists from Melbourne, on a Sunday drive, were denied access to the beach

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The Harley Club organised a monster rally for motor cyclists from all over the state in November, 1928. This attracted two hundred machines and three hundred and fifty people. As well as events for motorcycles the programme included footraces for children and adults on the sand. One hilarious blindfold race for men saw some competitors veering into the sea. The underlying goal of the rally was to show that motor cycling could bring all people together for an enjoyable time. The rally was so popular that another was planned for 1929 to demonstrate to the public what a splendid thing motorcycle club life really was. Although it went ahead with success, complaints against motorcycles on the beach continued to be raised and future use of the beach for racing was banned.

Grass speed tracks and other events In 1930 permission was given to hold a speed meeting on the open ground at the back of the club house. A track was laid out, four laps of the track being one mile. Local members Frank and Bob Myers also had a track laid out on their farm property at Bittern about eight kilometres away from the club house. Races and scrambles were held at both tracks. These grass speed tracks substituted for beach racing. Twenty-four-hour trials were also held along the unmade back roads in the area. The Harley Club frequently held weekend outings to its Balnarring club house and collective holidays took place at Easter and over long weekends.

Longer road events from Melbourne used Balnarring as a half-way point. It was the lunch stop or overnight stop depending on the length of the run. Visiting interstate Harley Clubs were treated to a stay at the beach.

Social events at the Club House were looked forward to with pleasure. These were sometimes run in conjunction with the Foreshore Committee for the whole beach community. In the early days there were monthly dances which were very popular. The Club’s Annual Dinner Dance was the social event of the motorcycle world. All the dignitaries of the Motor Cycle world were invited.

Special anniversaries were celebrated. During the summer months games were organised on the beach for adults and children alike.

Each Christmas a children’s Christmas party was always held at the club house. Santa, of course, arrived on a motorcycle.

Private events also took place at the Club House; when Dorothy Wallace of Merricks Beach turned twenty-one the club house was made available for her coming-of-age party.

The club was very lucky with its officials and members many of whom had business experience. The Rattray-Wood brothers, Ron and George, joined the club in its early years and took on the roles of treasurer and secretary. They stayed active members for many years.

In 1930 ownership of the land on which the club house stood was in the name of R. J. Rattray- Wood and rented to the Harley Club.

The Club remained financially successful over the years and large amounts of money were raised for charity.

With the coming of World War 2 activities scaled back and were limited to scrambles. The Club contributed £100 in war certificates and also made the club house at Balnarring Beach available to military authorities. During the early years of the war the Western Port beaches were fortified against possible Japanese invasion and army units camped in the foreshore reserve. continued next page...

Above: Mud trials at "The Coal Hole", circa 1935

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Above: Races at HMAS Cerberus,1952. Photo courtesy "Old Bike Australasia"

Post war change and Cerberus as a racetrack In post war years the Harley Club House at Balnarring again became a destination for Harley Club members. Events resumed.

A couple of beach races were held which involved just a few motorcycles but the ranger quickly put a stop to them.

However the period after the Second World War brought considerable change. People, in general, were more affluent and motor cars became more numerous. More people could afford to own a car and it became the family vehicle – replacing the motorcycle. A car could carry more people, was more comfortable and had the advantage of being suitable for travelling in all types of weather. Motorcycles were for the enthusiasts.

There were other changes, too, that limited motorcycle sports.

Public roads were closed for racing and clubs searched for a suitable stretch of tarmac where races could be held. For three years at the beginning of the 1950s the naval base, Cerberus, provided a racetrack for the Harley Club. Discussions took place between the R.A.N., the Harley Club and the Light Car Club to hold a twoday race meeting at the Base over the weekend of 30 September-1 October, 1950. Cerberus had a system of narrow flat roads and a course was marked out around the Naval Parade Ground, a circuit of 1.55 miles per lap. The Light Car Club decided not to participate but the Harley Club had one hundred Victorians interested in racing plus several riders from interstate. Commodore H.J. Buchanan officially opened the meeting which was a very successful and wellrun occasion. The following year there were two restricted race

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meetings held at the Base, one on 29 January, 1951 and one over the weekend of 14/15 October of the same year. In 1952 Cerberus again hosted a meeting but that was the last. The following year Commodore Buchanan was transferred to the command of HMAS Sydney and without his support no further races went ahead.

Money raised from the meetings went to the Base’s chapel The club house as a holiday centre There were changes at Balnarring Beach too. Land sales opened up more sites for housing and there was a spate of new houses.

Campers returned in numbers.

The Club House was still available for members to use throughout the year and not just for collective gatherings. Individual families could come to Balnarring and, for a small payment to cover the cost of services, they could make use of the main building. Some camped in the grounds. Many remember friendships made with other holiday makers from the nearby foreshore camping grounds and the activities that filled the summer holidays at the time – the open-air picture shows at the campgrounds, the summer carnival, sing-songs and beach races. The tradition of the Christmas children’s party at the beach for Harley families continued. Eight-eight children attended the party of 1960-1. The high cypress hedge surrounding the property was a favourite playground for the youngsters. One person remembers the challenge of trying to make the circuit of the property climbing through the trees. However the number of families using the Club House gradually dwindled.

Above Left: Holiday time at the Club House, 1950's Above Right: Christmas party at the Club House, 1957 Below Right: The Harley Club entrance, 1991

The Rooney’s private holiday house By the 1980s only one family, the Rooney family, was consistently holidaying at the Harley Club property. Daughter Debbie remembered “it was like having our own private holiday house”.

George Rooney was the Club’s Vice President for many years. He and his wife, Phyllis, had been associated with the club since 1949 and, with their three young children, they came to holiday at the Harley Club house each year, camping in the paddock next to the house. They usually came for about six weeks.

Other members came down for special occasions and events but most of the members now lived to the north of Melbourne. The land around the Club House was no longer wide, open paddocks but had become semi-suburban and the roads were mostly macadamised. The area no longer offered the same possibilities for racing and trials as it once had. The focus for the Club’s activities had shifted away from the beach. During the 1990’s the decision was made to look for another site north of the city and to sell off the land at the beach. It was not an easy decision.

Today Today the Harley Club House stands on 360 acres next to the State Motorcycle Complex at Broadford. The Club continues to have an enthusiastic group of members. Membership is about 180, down on previous years (at one time it numbered 600) but, as with everything else, COVID has curtailed activities. Both the sporting and social side of the club is still emphasised. It remains familyoriented and caters for a wide group of riders including veterans, juniors and women. Some members enter events in other Victorian centres; some travel interstate for events but most sport takes place at Broadford at the State Motorcycle Complex.

At Balnarring two houses now stand on the former club property.

The high cypress hedge that screened both blocks of land is still there. The lots were sold separately and a new home was erected on land where members once camped. The original Club House is a private home. The new owners remodelled the interior but, by and large, retained the external appearance. The old name, “The Harley Club”, which stood above the gateway is echoed in the house’s new name “Harley House”.

REFERENCES “The Harley Club of Victoria” – Ian Wisken and Bruce Bennett.

“Old Bike Australasia” – issue 20.

Contemporary newspapers.

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Eyewear As Individual As You Are

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Ph: 5975 3235

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• No more mud in your gutters • Gutters stay clean - no more cleaning • No more vermin or birds in your roof • Save money and cleaning time • Protect your most valued investment • 28 year guarantee -your home, your building

*Valid Until 28/2/22 Conditions apply

THIS IS FOR A NEW GENERATION. The EQA takes electric driving to exciting new heights as the first luxurious compact vehicle by Mercedes-EQ. Experience its athletic design, impressive range, high-speed charging capabilities, intelligent MBUX multimedia system and advanced driving assistance systems.

Discover the all-electric EQA.

Visit us at Mercedes-Benz Mornington and discover the all-electric EQA today. www.mbmornington.link/eqa

Mercedes-Benz Mornington 29-31 Mornington-Tyabb Road, Mornington 03 5923 0011 LMCT443