Dawn Nelson-Furnell OAM first picked up a bow at 12 years old, following her father’s footsteps into the world of archery. Back then, she was unaware of the legacy she would leave on the sport. She was a national champion as a teenager and has represented Australia on the world stage multiple times. Archery has remained a lifelong companion for Dawn, and is also the reason she met her husband, Peter.
8. Cupid’s Golden Arrow
Dawn Nelson-Furnell OAM first picked up a bow at 12 years old, following her father’s footsteps into the world of archery. Back then, she was unaware of the legacy she would leave on the sport. She was a national champion as a teenager and has represented Australia on the world stage multiple times. Archery has remained a lifelong companion for Dawn, and is also the reason she met her husband, Peter.
12. Surf Salvation
In 2021 Mornington police sergeant Barry Randall established a surf therapy program called Operation Soul Surf (OSS) giving professionals from police, fire, ambulance and the defence forces (current and veteran) an opportunity to experience the healing energies of the sea and surfing to treat work-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Writers:
Andrea Louise Thomas, Muriel Cooper, Annette Sanfilippo, Sarah Halfpenny
Photography: Yanni, Gary Sissons
Creative:
Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne
Publisher: Melissa McCullough melissa@mpnews.com.au
Style editor: Annette Sanfilippo annette@mpnews.com.au
Advertising: Belinda Timmerman, 0419 135 900, belinda@mpnews.com.au
Phone: (03) 5974 9000
Registered address: 1/15 Wallis Drive, Hastings VIC. 3915
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 bulk dropped at an extensive network of outlets across the peninsula.
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16. Go-Go Getter
Rosebud go-go dancer Vicky Sapkin has loved music from the mid1960s since she was fifteen years old. She stopped dancing in her later teens but rekindled her love for the style in 2022 and hasn’t stopped dancing since; even establishing her business, 1960s Dance Party, giving lessons to people that share her passion.
20. From Stage to Sage
After one pivotal conversation with her life coach aunt about her healing journey, Dena Kaplan raced home and experienced what she calls “a huge creative download.” By day’s end, the well-known actress from the internationally beloved series Dance Academy, had designed The Self Retreat – intimate wellness weekends that are now transforming women’s lives across the Mornington Peninsula.
26. Photo Finish Fashion
Style editor Annette Sanfilippo is off and running this spring carnival and looking forward to a season of expressing yourself with a bit of artistic flair. From fashionable frocks to tailored suits and accessories galore everything you need can be found right here on the Mornington Peninsula.
30. Cooperatively Fresh
Jointly Harvest is a community-driven fresh produce business connecting local farmers and makers directly with families, childcare centres, and neighbourhood hubs across the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.
61. The Day Fire Struck the Peninsula
The Black Friday bushfires of January 1939 in Victoria were part of the devastating 1938-39 bushfire season in Australia which saw fires burning for the whole summer and ash falling on the glaciers in New Zealand. The peninsula had an early taste of what was to come on Black Friday as bushfires caused havoc in Dromana and, to a lesser extent, Frankston on the Sunday before.
4, 11, 18, 25 OCT OKTOBERFEST AT DEVILBEND FARM BEER
From 12pm
Devilbend Farm Beer hosts an authentic Bavarian style Oktoberfest celebration every Saturday throughout October. Enjoy German tradition with ten exclusive German-style beers brewed onsite, a lively Oompah band, and a feast of classic Bavarian dishes.
visitmorningtonpeninsula.org
18 OCTOBER MAYDAY CRUISE
5pm -10pm
Set sail from Sorrento Pier and drift up the stunning Mornington Peninsula coastline to Dromana and back in the fresh ocean air. An unforgettable evening cruise with Live music, great food and local beverages. Place a bid on the silent auction. Group ticket discounts maydaycruise.com.au
4, 11 OCTOBER THE PINK TRAIN FOR BCNA
From 11.30am
Step into a world of elegance, indulgence, and heartfelt connection as Mornington Tourist Railway invites you to a truly special experience. The Pink Train for BCNA, a High Tea event like no other in support of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
visitmorningtonpeninsula.org
19 OCTOBER
MORNINGTON WEDDING EXPO
10am - 3pm
Free entry to the biggest expo outside of the CBD. Couples can find everything they need at the Mornington Wedding Expo. From photographers and cake designers to DJs and celebrants, the Mornington Peninsula’s best wedding service providers will be there, helping you to create a magical wedding day. morningtonweddingexpos.com.au
12 OCTOBER ARTHOUSE GALLERY GRAND OPENING
11am - 3pm
Join us for the Grand opening at the Tyabb Packing House, offering light refreshments and an art filled afternoon. View works from 12 award winning local artists and maybe invest in some local unique and affordable art.
facebook.com/ arthousegallerytyabb
31 OCTOBER
GHOST WALK 'DARK' TOUR AT CAPE SCHANCK LIGHTHOUSE
From 6pm
Dare to be scared! Tall tales and true, of our lighthouse ghosts walking around the lighthouse grounds. You will not enter the lighthouse. Sturdy footwear a coat and torch recommended.
visitmorningtonpeninsula.org
By Raia Flinos Photos Yanni
DawnNelson-Furnell OAM first picked up a bow at 12 years old, following her father’s footsteps into the world of archery. Back then, she was unaware of the legacy she would leave on the sport. She was a national champion as a teenager and has represented Australia on the world stage multiple times. Archery has remained a lifelong companion for Dawn, and is also the reason she met her husband, Peter.
The Crib Point couple first met at the 2007 Australian Masters Games when they were competing in the Clout archery event. They both went on to win gold. Dawn and Peter remained good friends until 2009, when Peter was headhunted for work and moved to Victoria. “We just clicked,” Dawn said. Since then, Peter has been there for Dawn at every major milestone in her career. “He’s been my backbone, he’s been my coach, he’s been my confidante,” Dawn said. “He’s always been there to help and support me.”
From competing at national and world championships to travelling the world together for archery, their shared passion has strengthened their relationship. Dawn’s achievements as a national-level athlete have taken her to the Commonwealth Games and Olympic squads and she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to archery.
Dawn and Peter are now preparing to compete in their 10th Masters Games, which will take place in Canberra in October. “We haven’t missed one since we met,” Dawn said.
Their bond, which was built on mutual interests, friendship, and a deep-rooted love for archery, has only strengthened over time. “We help each other motivate, steady and talk through problems and pressures. I’ve supported Dawn as a coach and spectator in many important competitions and have also competed side-by-side with her,” Peter said.
They also own a business together, doing risk assessments for level crossings. Dawn says she and Peter don’t tire of each other, despite spending almost all their time together. “I think you’ve got to be good friends, you know, always have the banter there, and date nights, and always have that respect for each other,” she said.
Archery has remained at the forefront of their relationship over the years, and they now run an archery club together, Angel Archers, in Balnarring, where they coach all levels, from beginners to professionals.
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Dawn is extremely accomplished in the sport and has competed nationally in the Commonwealth Games and Olympics.
Sport has given us so many opportunities, not just in competition but in life
She ‘retired’ from archery when she had her daughter in 1984 but decided to return to the sport in 2006 and came back better than ever. In 2018, she beat the world record in the 72-arrow 60-metre ranking round, when she scored 662/720; a record which she still holds to this day. “In archery, you have to win your way to the top. So, if you are dedicated and put it all out there, then you’ll get there,” Dawn said.
Dawn credits archery with changing her life, connecting her with amazing people, and providing memories for her and her family. “Sport has given us so many opportunities, not just in competition but in life,” she said. “We’ve travelled, met amazing people, and grown together in ways we never imagined.”
For Dawn and Peter, archery is not just a sport but a bond between generations. “There were four generations of ours that were shooting all at once,” she said. “It’s great to have a
sport where you can actually shoot with family members rather than sitting on the sidelines and cheering.”
Dawn encourages everyone to give archery a try: “It’s for all ages, you know. I say we coach from eight to eighty-eight.”
Despite a few setbacks over the past few years due to a tear in her shoulder, Dawn has learned to work around her injury and says this Masters Games feels different. “I’m looking forward to it,” she said. “This year is really starting to feel like I’m over that bump and back into being competitive.”
As the 20th Australian Masters Games fast approaches, Dawn and Peter are prepared to give their all and bring home the gold, adding to their collection.
FB: @angelarchers
By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Gary Sissons & supplied
Barry Randall was three months old the first time he splashed in the sea. Ever since, the ocean has had a magnetic draw. Growing up in a little town on the Central Coast of New South Wales meant Barry and his five siblings spent a lot of time at the beach. They were swimming, surfing and participating in junior surf lifesaving when they weren’t golfing, playing rugby, tennis or any of the other sports they frequently enjoyed. Their Mum clocked up a lot of kilometres on the family car.
The sea remains a solace and salvation for Barry, a decorated Sergeant of over 30 years with the Mornington branch of Victoria Police. But that is only part of his service. In 2021, between COVID lockdowns, Barry established a surf therapy program called Operation Soul Surf (OSS) giving professionals from police, fire, ambulance and the defence forces (current and veteran) an opportunity to experience the healing energies of the sea and surfing to treat work-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
PTSD is something Barry knows a lot about. At 22, with less than a year in the police force, he and his partner were called to attend ‘a rowdy party’. It was something entirely different. The call was a domestic violence case. In the pitch dark they were charged by a knife wielding woman. He and his partner quickly found themselves victims of attempted murder. The perpetrator was shot and killed moments before attacking Barry’s partner. This incident haunted him resulting in severe PTSD.
“Returning to surfing was transformative in my healing journey. I wanted to pay it forward to other first responders,” he says. So, he founded OSS. “Two hundred men and women have now come through the program. Participants have found healing and made friendships with strangers who understand what they are going through,” he says. The program has been so successful that Barry was awarded Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 2025 Community Inspiration Award at the Local Australia Day Awards.
‘Healing minds one wave at a time’ is Barry’s OSS motto and he lives it. Barry’s mental health advocacy and community service are literally saving lives. Police officer Ben said, ‘OSS was by far the happiest, most relaxed and tired I have been all in one.’ Paramedic Lisa wrote, ‘OSS has been life changing. I felt joy, inner peace and freedom for the first time just being in the ocean.’ One firefighter, housebound with PTSD, was able to return to work and engage with friends and family again because of OSS.
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OSS lessons are held at East Coast Surf School in Point Leo. Thanks to sponsors, the lessons are free of charge, including all equipment and a post-surf lunch. Classes run across four consecutive weeks on Saturday catering for 10 participants.
Barry goes about his work with such quiet humility that when the names and accomplishments of others were being read out at the 2025 Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Award where he won Officer of the Year, he turned to the woman next to him and said, “Am I in the right line?” Barry has always been in the right line. He knew he wanted to help people from the time he was seven and has dedicated his entire life to it.
He could have chosen many paths including professional sport. He’d won four junior rugby league premierships with the Toukley Hawks by the age of 12. A year after that, he was NSW Junior Surf Life Saving Champion. At 16 he was trialling for several NRL clubs, but his pull to public service was greater. He moved to Victoria at 20 to begin his police career.
Barry has worked as a specialist detective in the painfully complex field of the Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Unit,
finding himself confronted with the most horrific of all crimes. He was appointed to the Prime Minister’s Task force, Themis, working with Australian Federal Police in the Northern Territory for a year. He’s worked across various fields within the police force.
Sport has always held an important place in Barry’s life. His passion for rugby has remained front and centre. “In 1999 I became the first Victoria Police officer to be chosen to play rugby league for Australia,” he says. He took unpaid leave to travel to the United States and England, becoming a Rugby 7s World Champion in Los Angeles. He also surfed in LA; no mean feat considering the notoriously cold water off the Pacific Coast.
He returned to his position in Mornington where he has been ever since, serving the local community and fellow first responders through OSS. While he would shy away from advertising it, Barry is a recipient of the National Police Service Award Medal, Youth Police Officer of the Year, 2022 Outstanding Service to People With Disabilities Award, 2025 Victorian Rotary Emergency Services Officer of the Year and 2025 Mornington Peninsula Community Inspiration Award.
Barry approaches all of his work with compassion, kindness and humility. He’s not about accolades. “I see myself as a husband, father, ‘rugby league gypsy’ and surf therapist,” he says. These things are wonderful in themselves, but he is also a person who has dedicated his life to police work even when it meant putting his physical and mental health on the line. Sounds like a hero to me, but don’t tell Barry I said so.
operationsoulsurf.com eastcoastsurfschool.net.au
By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Gary Sissons & supplied
Rosebudgo-go dancer Vicky Sapkin has loved music from the mid-1960s since she was fifteen years old. The Easybeats, whose members included renowned songwriters Harry Vanda and George Young were her favourites. It wasn’t just the music; Vicky adored everything '60s from Twiggy and the mini dress to E-type Jaguars and old record stores. She delighted in movies and TV shows of the era which often broke out into a dance scene. Nothing thrilled her more than Batman and Robin busting a move.
“This kind of music energises me. I just have to dance. It makes me feel so joyous. It’s such fun. Laughter and movement are priorities in my life,” she says. She has to stop herself from dancing if 60s music comes on in the supermarket. She can’t explain why this kind of music so inspires her, but she just can’t help it.
She stopped dancing in her later teens and didn’t really get back to it until 2022 when she saw a notice for a '60s cover band playing at Tom Katz at the Sorrento RSL and decided to go along. As soon as she heard the music, she jumped up to dance and didn’t sit down again until the band finished playing.
After this she started looking for '60s cover bands and discovered The Wipeouts, The Herberts, The Retro Stars, The Boombabies and The Repeters. Vicky has regular gigs dancing with The Wipeouts at the Hampton RSL. She’s met amazing people at these gigs who share her passion for the music and dance of that era. Her genuine talent, bold enthusiasm and spectacular dance moves did not go unnoticed. In fact, people wanted to know how she did it. Their encouragement at gigs kick started her passion for teaching.
Vicky established her business, 1960s Dance Party in 2024. She has taught both private and public classes. She’ll be teaching an open session as part of the Mornington Peninsula Seniors Festival on October 22 from 11-12 and women-only sessions at Mount Martha House in October and November. She also teaches free sessions before her gigs with The Wipeouts.
Vicky choreographs every dance number in her classes, simplifying some trickier ones. “The 1960s Dance Party concept is all about being free and having fun,” she says. Vicky teaches classics like the Watusi or Batusi (in honour of Batman), The Pony, The Jerk and The Monkey. She leaves two dances at the end of each session for participants to dance freestyle. Vicky loves engaging with her students.
In her teaching repertoire, Vicky has more than fifty dance moves to draw from. She really enjoys choreography. The moves have to be authentic go-go moves and she chooses ones she knows will be the most fun to dance. Seeing Vicky in action is the personification of joy. Her delight is infectious.
Never in a million years would Vicky have thought professional go-go dancing was in her future. At high school she had a real knack for numbers. She obtained a Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin in Geelong. Then she spent four years working for Price Waterhouse as a chartered accountant and eventually moved to more flexible accounting and bookkeeping jobs.
Being deskbound indoors for hours on end was really not what Vicky wanted. She needed to be active. She swapped from full-time to part-time work and then stopped working when her children were born. Caring for kids had her moving almost constantly and she liked it that way.
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This kind of music energises me. I just have to dance. It makes me feel so joyous
CHAMPION STAKES DAY RACING SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2025
CHRISTMAS PICNICS AT BALNARRING SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER 2025
BALNARRING CUP DAY MONDAY 26 JANUARY 2026
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EASTER PLATE DAY SATURDAY 04 APRIL 2026
FASHIONS DAY SATURDAY 11 APRIL 2026
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KIDS ACTIVITIES
Now Vicky enjoys working as an administrator for the Mornington Peninsula Beach Box Association. Interacting with the thousand plus members, many of whom are generational beach box owners, is fun and interesting. They have so many stories to share and are truly passionate about their beach boxes. She’s been doing this for ten years.
I would dance every night of the week if I could because I am completely in the moment
Vicky became the local history representative and vice-chair on the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Arts and Culture Advisory Panel. She’s now treasurer of the Peninsula Culture Collective. In both roles she has met fascinating people across all of the arts. Being involved with historians and creative people gives Vicky a real buzz.
Vicky also likes working as a volunteer committee member with the National Trust’s Mornington Peninsula Branch. She is keenly interested in Australian history and was a committee member and treasurer with the Mornington & District Historical Society for 14 years happily mixing with like-minded people and discovering intriguing stories of the Mornington Peninsula.
That said, nothing thrills her more than go-go dancing. “Being on the dance floor and feeling free is just the best! I would dance every night of the week if I could because I am completely in the moment. I love the bands, the audiences are great and the positive vibes are so uplifting,” she says. Go-go Vicky!
IG: @1960sdanceparty
FB: @1960sdanceparty
By Sarah Halfpenny Photos Yanni
AI had the privilege of working with a lot of people on my own healing journey
fter one pivotal conversation with her life coach aunt about her healing journey, Dena Kaplan raced home and experienced what she calls “a huge creative download.” By day’s end, the actress known to millions worldwide for her portrayal of Abigail Armstrong in the internationally beloved series Dance Academy, had designed The Self Retreat – intimate wellness weekends that are now transforming women’s lives across the Mornington Peninsula.
The peninsula setting wasn’t accidental. “When we fell pregnant with our daughter Maya, we realised we wanted to be closer to my parents who live in Red Hill. We found a beautiful place that had a lot of nature surrounding it, which was important to us after living in cities like Sydney, LA and New York most of our adult lives,” Dena explains.
For someone who has performed as a dancer and a DJ everywhere from Coachella to Broadway stages, the peninsula offers something she couldn’t find elsewhere. “The energy here is different to the city; it’s a slower pace and the nature is so grounding. The stars at night are visible and it has a certain magic to it,” she says.
Dena’s path to wellness work was born from necessity. “After going through my own journey of healing from serious trauma and mental illness, I realised that I wanted to make sense of my suffering. The best way I knew how was to help others and be of service; it’s led me to running my retreats and studying psychotherapy and counselling. I believe people with lived experience have a lot to offer.”
The transformation required immense vulnerability. “It’s actually been very empowering; to be the one to hold space as opposed to the one in crisis all the time feels very special and not
something I take for granted. I am very open about my struggles. I know this helps other people feel less alone and makes the whole thing less taboo.”
The concept of The Self Retreat crystallised quickly. “I knew who I wanted on my faculty and exactly how I wanted the weekend to feel and be, and now we are six retreats later and it’s doing incredibly well. Watching the transformations of these women is nothing short of miraculous!”
I know how important physical activity and somatic practises are when it comes to healing
The programme is certainly comprehensive. “Over the weekend we do breathwork training, hot/cold therapy, somatic dance, yoga, Pilates, goal setting and vision board workshops, nature walks, sound healings, massage, psychic readings and so much more. Guests can also expect the best food they will ever eat. Our catering is a huge part of the retreat with nourishing food that is truly inspiring. And lots of journaling too. It’s a mix of grounded, no-nonsense help with a sprinkle of spirituality,” Dena says.
Dena curated her retreat faculty with the precision of someone who has tested numerous approaches. “I had the privilege of working with a lot of people on my own healing journey. I spent thousands of dollars and tried every modality and remedy and
treatment you can think of, so I know what works and what doesn’t, and I knew which healers and facilitators I wanted to work with. For example, we fly our breathwork facilitator Nicole in as she is based in Queensland, but there is no one better than her in Australia and I wanted my guests to have the experience I had by curating the best of the best; from the food to the movement to the meditation. It’s all very intentional and thoughtfully put together.”
Becoming a mother has added another dimension to her work. “It’s been the most incredible journey; it’s humbling and the selfsacrifice is huge, but I’ve never loved any role as much as I love being Maya’s mother. It’s given me a sense of gratitude and perspective for what’s actually important in life.”
The juggling act between motherhood, retreats, studying psychotherapy, and hosting the Life Academy podcast with her former Dance Academy co-star Alicia Banit requires careful orchestration. The podcast, which features the pair as “on screen frenemies turned real-life besties,” allows her to extend conversations about wellness beyond her retreats. Her dance background informs her approach to helping women reconnect with their bodies. “I have such a deep connection to
my body from all the years of professional dancing; I know how important physical activity and somatic practises are when it comes to healing. I also have a sense of confidence being a dancer so I really like to help women get back in touch with their bodies and empower them to feel sexy, connected and free again.”
When not facilitating transformations, Dena enjoys the peninsula like a seasoned local. “We love Shoreham beach and the walks around Shoreham. We love Fontalina for a delicious Italian meal and we love taking our daughter to The Big Goose. We also love Pond Bathhouse for relaxation time.”
The area’s distinctive qualities make it ideal for her work. “Nature is a big element of the retreats, so it really gives people a sense of being away or on holiday. We have local people come, but we also have clients fly in from Sydney and they get to experience what I think is the most beautiful part of the world.”
With the backdrop of the peninsula stars shining brighter than any stage lights, Dena is helping women discover that the bravest and greatest performance they can give is being authentically themselves.
Go to Instagram to find out more about Dena and The Self Retreat.
Get ready for a sparkling musical experience as Australian icon Rhonda Burchmore brings her show Wish Upon a Star to Frankston Arts Centre on Friday 17 October with performances at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Part of the beloved Daytime Music + Theatre program, this enchanting concert invites audiences to join Rhonda on a heartfelt journey through the songs and stories that have shaped her extraordinary 40-year career.
With her radiant voice and magnetic stage presence, Rhonda will perform a selection of timeless favourites, including In the Mood, All That Jazz, Mamma Mia, and When You Wish Upon a Star. Full of charm, wit, and undeniable star power, her performance promises laughter, nostalgia, and pure entertainment for lovers of music and storytelling alike.
From starring in West End hits to shining in Australian theatre productions such as Mamma Mia, Hairspray, and Hot Shoe Shuffle, Rhonda has shared the stage with entertainment legends including Mickey Rooney and Ann Miller. A proud recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), she continues to captivate audiences with her powerhouse vocals, effervescent personality, and signature glamour.
Saturday 4 October, 7pm
Get ready for a night of awkward charm and hilarious stories as Luke McGregor returns with Okay, Wow, fresh from Rosehaven, The Amazing Race Australia, and hours of practicing jokes on his chickens and axolotl!
Sunday 12 October, 2pm
Join the party of the decade as international cabaret superstar Hans celebrates turning 21—a dazzling, cheeky and unmissable birthday spectacular filled with glamour, laughter, and plenty of surprises!
Thursday 16 October, 7.30pm
Rock back to the ’80s with the Wilbury Legends as they bring the Traveling Wilburys to life in a spectacular night of legendary hits, powerhouse harmonies, and stories behind the music.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of music and memory. Book your tickets now at thefac.com.au or call 03 9784 1060.
Friday 17 October, 8.30pm
INXS fans, get ready - the Original Rockstar (and former INXS Frontman), JD Fortune returns to Australian stages for his first ever headline tour with his band to perform the Best of INXS!
Sunday 26 October, 2pm
Join Damien Leith for an unforgettable afternoon of music as he takes the Cube 37 stage solo for a heartfelt celebration of 19 incredible years since winning Australian Idol.
Sunday 26 October, 2.30pm
Step into the magic of this dazzling ballet adventure filled with enchanting dances, breathtaking snow scenes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score that will captivate both children and adults alike!
By Annette Sanfilippo
Oneof the most anticipated few weeks of the year is nearly upon us. Spring has definitely arrived. And if you add the word ‘carnival’ to it, the two words together conjure up an air of excitement and joy along with social calendar mayhem.
Melbourne is set to turn on its annual racing fashion extravaganza that many have been preparing for since last year. It is taken quite seriously and tends to dominate everything from fundraising events, newsreels, luncheons and fashion shows; but most of all, shopping. Besides the iconic Derby Day, where we pay homage to all things black and white, racegoers and fashionistas will be out and about looking for all the 'brights'. Excuse me for being a tad more excited this year, as the universe is starting to align and finally after a few years of a ‘le se faire’ attitude to dressing, we will be embracing the full gambit of fashion from hat to toe. Minimalism is taking a bow, and it will be a season to dollup, suit-up and express your style with a bit of artistic flair. Lucky you; everything you need can be found right here on the Mornington Peninsula.
If you are shopping your own wardrobe first but need that perfect accessory, then you won’t be short for choice at Katra Collections in Rye. There, you will find luxury accessories from handbags to shoes and everything in between to create that perfect look you imagined. Those little details that add that something special can take your outfit to the next level and you will feel like a kid in a candy shop browsing the selection on offer there. With new stock weekly and the ability to pre-order some items, boutique owner Kartia will make sure you never miss out.
The recipe for styling racewear is all about getting the balance of colour, texture, design and latest trends blended perfectly with just a touch of confidence and a hint of attitude. 2025 will see traditions challenged and rules ready to be broken. Pattern clashing, structure versus soft sheer fabrics, hem lengths wherever you desire and lots of sleeve silhouettes and decadent trims will feature. Embellished lapels and fabric floral corsages are trending and bespoke couture headwear will be at the forefront yet again. Both male and female attire gets playful and options are abundant on our peninsula streets.
Head to The Style Squad on Virginia Street in Mornington where new owner Chips, (as she likes to be called), is ready to give you a first-class styling experience from head to toe. Chips has been part of fashion and retail on the peninsula for many years and brings her feel-good, energetic, bubbly spirit and experience to everyone in the room. She makes it all about you and will have you walking out of their signature pink door preened to perfection. Known for stocking the latest dress brands for hire like Elliatt, Bariano, Mossman and Mackenzie Mode, The Style Squad is a dress mecca, and the future plan is to give clientele a one-stop shopping destination bringing you back again and again and again!
The girls can’t have all the fun though. New to Main Street, Mornington is Cambridge Clothing bringing sophisticated tailoring, men’s apparel and accessories. The team offers styling advice, effortless combinations of elevated event wear, suiting and seasonal pieces with a dedication to dressing every man in confidence. Bursting with a list of well-established brands, it will be easy to find your perfect look and get season-ready. From the moment you walk in you are surrounded by crisp clean lines, subtle textures and tonal pieces. The vibe is vibrant with a little edge with experienced
Racewear is an unusual genre of fashion, and it has only one real platform for expression: a race day. Whether it’s your aesthetic or not you have to give it credit for its originality and creative direction which can often influence trends in other areas of dressing. It’s an exciting look to wear and once that hat goes on, or pocket square is secured, you are transported to a fantastical world where the compliments start flowing along with hopefully a bubbly or two.
Whether you hire, buy or fabricate your outfits, it’s a bit of fun. And if you get a chance to strut on the fashion stage to an adoring crowd, make sure you have your shining ‘voila’ moment in the limelight. Put your best foot forward and reflect your personal style and in the words of the late and great Giorgio Armani, “Elegance is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered”.
Enjoy it all.
Fashionably yours, Annette
From fragrances to foliage and footwear to furniture, our monthly Peninsula in Style section showcases local businesses to discover, styling tips, trends, products and people.
If you have something you’d like to share, let’s talk!
Contact our style editor: annette@mpnews.com.au or 0414 465 344
By Muriel Cooper Photos Yanni
It’s a stretch to imagine that a fresh local produce enterprise on the peninsula began with a tennis racquet, but that’s exactly what happened when Peter Forrest set out to buy one.
we thought about what we could do that might really help people at the moment
Peter says, “You could buy one at full price or two for a discount, three for more money off, and five came with even more of a discount. I had no one to buy with, and I thought that there had to be some way of getting together with others online to buy together to buy in bulk. So I talked to Mark Dingwell.”
Mark is an IT wizard who helped to set up the website and the ordering system for Jointly Harvest, which makes running a co-op easy. Peter and Mark are part of the New Baptist Church at the New Peninsula Centre in Mt Martha. They began to explore what could be done to help people buy smarter.
Initially, Peter took time off work and they began to make inroads into things other than tennis racquets. In 2019 they learned just how much the big companies actually have their hands in many little people's pies. Peter says, "The consumer was ready to go, but the actual retailers weren't so ready. It was going to be very expensive to get the numbers up. So we thought about what we could do that might really help people at the moment and the answer was veggies!”
And so Jointly Harvest was born.
The original model was to deliver the fruit and veggie boxes and other local artisan goods direct to members, but the pair soon realised that was going to be too expensive. So Peter and Mark came up with the idea of a ‘super group’. Peter explains, “That’s
continued page 32 ...
A gentle and safe microsuction procedure, conducted by qualified nurses. Blocked ears can be frustrating and painful. Our team of qualified nurses use effective microsuction technology to clear wax and debris from your ear canals. This microsuction technique is the same ear cleaning method used by ENT specialists, GPs and Audiologists. It's safe, gentle and dry.
They might not have been eating fruit, but they love ours because they’re so fresh, juicy and crunchy
the idea where you deliver to one address (a hub), and then everyone comes and picks it up from there, so everyone shares the cost. We’ve come up level with the supermarkets in price, but the produce is super fresh. We didn't realise how used to buying older produce we’d become. We buy from the Epping market, where there’s a whole heap of farmers, plus wholesalers that represent farmers. After the pickup at 2am this morning I dropped into a little egg farm, then I dropped in to other local farms. Yesterday, I went to the Red Hill farms to get our local produce, including Island Pasta and Peninsula Nut Co in Mt Martha and Boatshed cheese in Dromana. We have all the produce you usually get at the market for our boxes. The idea is that we want to get as much local produce as possible. Although some of the produce is sourced elsewhere, it’s all Australian. The other idea of the hub is that it builds community, so people interact with each other and, obviously, by buying together, we can be competitive with supermarkets. When we deliver to the hubs, the kids come running and grab the fruit out. They might not have been eating fruit, but they love ours because they’re so fresh, juicy and crunchy.”
Jointly Harvest is a whole family affair. Peter’s wife Mel, his daughter Emily, and Mark’s parents Jim and Jane Dingwell are all packing boxes at the community centre, and Peter’s sister organises one of the hubs. Mark is taking time out to look after his newborn twins, Hattie and Alfie, but is usually there packing boxes.
As well as providing boxes to members, Jointly Harvest provides fresh produce to wholesome food enterprises and childcare centres. It also has a branch that provides boxes to the Community Caring Back on Track program. Peter and Mark noticed one day that the meals provided by the program could do with more fresh and seasonal produce, so they set up Nourish.
“We commit 5% of all boxes, and provide what's left over after packing them too, since exact numbers of fruit and veggies can’t be bought from the market. Jointly Harvest members can also give $15 Jointly Nourish food parcels to the community group of their choice.”
Now that we can buy most fruit and veggies all year round, many of us have lost track of what’s in season. Peter provides his Weekly Market Update on their website, which he calls his ‘Veggie Stock Market’. It outlines what’s in season and which are the best buys. Boxes can be chosen by members, or a ‘mystery box’ can be offered to them.
It’s not well known that most of the fresh produce in Victoria comes from the Melbourne Market in Epping. Jointly Harvest’s hub idea has caught the attention of others, and wholesale markets might pop up in other areas soon. This means fresher fruit and veggies and a smaller carbon footprint.
jointly.shop
Have you driven past our sign on the highway?
PROFESSIONALLY MADE QUALITY WINE MADE AND BOTTLED IN MOUNT ELIZA BEST VALUE ON THE PENINSULA DONT JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT - DROP IN AND TRY!
OPEN 7 DAYS 10am-5pm
Ranked as the number one public access golf course on the Australian mainland — and making its debut in the worldwide Top 100 rankings at number 89 — St Andrews Beach Golf Course is a bucket-list golf destination. Situated on the stunning Mornington Peninsula, this Tom Doak masterpiece offers a world-class golfing experience in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
The course’s iconic layout features rugged bunkering, rolling fairways, and natural dune formations that provide both a challenge and an aesthetic delight. Golfers will find excellent value with competitive green fees available 7 days a week, making this world renowned venue surprisingly accessible.
Adding to the experience is the new clubhouse, affectionately referred to as The Glasshouse. With its modern facilities, new warm up areas, and in-house food and beverage service, it’s the ideal spot for post-round relaxation.
St Andrews Beach also features a well-maintained fleet of carts, ensuring your group can enjoy the course with ease. For golfers seeking a world-class golfing experience that combines natural beauty, thoughtful design, and exceptional facilities, St Andrews Beach Golf Course delivers on every front.
Easily accessible from the Peninsula Link Freeway, Bay Views Golf Course offers an unforgettable public golfing experience. Its elevated position provides stunning panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, making it a standout destination for those looking for a scenic and rewarding day out.
The course caters to golfers of all skill levels, with a layout that balances fun and challenge. With great value green fees available 7 days a week and great afternoon and midweek deals also on offer, Bay Views is lauded as the best value public course on the Mornington Peninsula.
After your round, the elevated alfresco area provides an inviting spot to relax and take in the coastal vistas and views of the stunning course.
With a full fleet of motorised carts, welcoming staff, and superb course conditions year-round, Bay Views ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Whether you’re planning a casual day out with friends or a larger group event, this course ticks all the boxes.
Just a short drive from Melbourne, Bay Views Golf Course is a must-visit for golfers seeking spectacular views, outstanding value, and a top-quality golf experience.
Rye is a seaside resort town approximately 83km south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula. Its bay beach is popular with swimmers, fishermen, yachtsmen and kite surfers. Rye has an area of 14.7 km².
Point Nepean Road is Rye's main thoroughfare, running parallel to the town's bay beach. The main concentration of shops is located east of Dundas Street and includes a hotel, eateries, a major supermarket and other retailers.
The coastal town of Rye is situated on the popular holiday destination of the Mornington Peninsula, nestled between Rosebud and Blairgowrie.
Rye extends southwards across the narrow width of the Mornington Peninsula in this area, right down to the coastline fronting the open waters of Bass Strait. The Mornington Peninsula National Park spans the foreshore here, consisting of scenic walking tracks, rocky coastal features, dunes and pockets of sandy beach. A pathway and steps extend from Tasman Drive down to the sandy bay at Number 16 Beach.
If you enjoy snorkeling, you can hire gear locally and then head for the Octopus’s Garden at Rye Pier. This is a 200 metre underwater trail with signage introducing you to the underwater wildlife.
Rye was proclaimed a town on February 26, 1861 and is partly in the parish of Wannaeue but mainly in the parish of Nepean, which is west of Government Road and Weeroona Street. The township extends south to the southern boundary of the cemetery, with its east and west boundaries being Weir Street and Dundas Street.
Rye's main beach, fronting Port Phillip, offers safe sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and boating. There is a jetty, several boat ramps, and attractive foreshore facilities with picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds and walking tracks.
Around a kilometre west of the Rye Jetty is an outcrop of land called White Cliffs. At the base of the cliffs is a reconstructed old Lime Burners Kiln - a reminder of the mid-1800s when the extraction of lime was the area's primary industry. Scenic views along the coast can be enjoyed from a lookout above the kiln.
Rye had the natural bounty provided by the bay and ocean beaches. Fish were in great abundance and provided a living for some families. As well as putting food on the table for many others, the rocky edges at the ocean beaches were a rich source of crayfish, and the bay held a multitude of species.
In the early years of settlement, Rye was known for lime burning, wood cutting and fishing industries. The building of Melbourne was under way, and the lime burnt from stone kilns at Rye was transported by dray, then barge, onto small sailing vessels. The lime industry gave employment to wood cutters, quarry men and lime burners and a settlement soon developed.
Rye also has an impressive ocean beach, where you can experience an exhilarating horse ride. There are magnificent walks along the clifftops that form part of the 25 kilometre Coastal Walk.
Population of Rye is 9,438 (2021 Census).
Rye median house price is $920,000. Rental median price is $590pw.
Whether you are starting your morning or seeking an afternoon pick-me-up, freshly brewed coffee and delectable menus are a must-have for locals and visitors. Here are just a few places to check out when you're in this beautiful part of the world.
Tucked away in a side street with a very unassuming shop front , you'll think you've traveled back to the 60's! Outstanding breakfast menu and great coffee. Gluten free options
Quickly becoming the go-to place for locals with a focus on specialty coffee and beautiful brunch made with fresh quality ingredients. Added perks are great service and an on-site general store.
Contemporary & stylish family owned and operated, serving Little Rebel coffee. Children and fur baby friendly. Delicious fresh food made daily. Indoor & outdoor dining.
A wide selection of culinary delights, to meet all manner of dietary needs and desires. The perfect location for all day breakfast and Commonfolk coffee. Wifi available.
Select your subscription period below then each month, and then Peninsula
$60 twelve month subscription (12 issues)
$40 six month subscription (6 issues)
October 4 9am-2pm th
Out in the country, high on the hill, there’s a market where makers, growers and musicians gather to share the bounty of the seasonfrom fresh produce and handmade goods to vintage treasures and local art.
Good things in the heart of Red Hill.
Photos Yanni
The coastal town of Rye is a popular holiday destination offering convenient access to a range of amenities on the main strip along Point Nepean Road. The area features numerous cafes specialising in breakfast and lunch, as well as exceptional restaurants for every appetite. Its foreshore boasts sandy beaches suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. During the summer months, the Rye Carnival provides entertainment for visitors of all ages. In addition, world-class golf courses are located just a few minutes’ drive from the main township, and two renowned hot spring venues are also situated nearby.
BARN DOOR SALES MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8AM - 4.30PM AND8AM-12.30PMSATURDAYS
Tired of stale tasting supermarket eggs? Our farm is family owned and managed. We have been producing quality eggs for over 40 years, supplying the public, cafes, restaurants and other businesses on the peninsula
r from our barn door. Come and visit our Free Range hens roaming in their paddocks!
FARM FRESH FREE RANGE EGGS AT WHOLESALE PRICES!
CHOOK POO BY THE BAG
COME AND SEE THE ROAMINGCHICKENS FREE IN THE PADDOCK!
Deville Sparkling (méthode traditionnelle) France, NV
Sandpiper Rose Barossa 2022
Drayton Iron Bark Hill Shiraz Hunter Valley 2023
Darling Organic Pinot Gris Marlborough 2024
$22
LOCATION: 2080 Frankston - Flinders Rd, Hastings HOURS: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 6pm PHONE: 9596 4278
WAREHOUSE STORE BOTTLE AND CASE SALES ONLY
LOCATION: Unit 5, 3 Trewhitt Court, Dromana Industrial Estate
HOURS: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am until 5pm
PHONE: 9596 4878
As the weather warms and party season approaches, Wine Lovers Warehouse has you covered with a huge selection of quality wines at unbeatable prices. We sell direct to the public, offering massive savings on well-known brands and hidden gems. Try before you buy at our Hastings warehouse or drop into Dromana where our friendly team of experts are ready to help you discover your next favourite drop.
From award-winning Pinots and local favourites to regional heroes and French bubbles, now’s the time to visit, taste, and stock up!
Viscosi Wines Pinot Noir Red Hill 2020
$37
Haslemere Chardonnay Eden Valley 2024
Whitebox Shiraz Viognier Heathcote 2021 Our Price $12 RRP $22
Directors Reserve Ltd Release Cab Sauv, Coonawarra, 2020 Single Vineyard Our Price $10
$27
Nestled in the heart of Mornington Peninsula, Morven Manor Retirement Community offers a lifestyle for retirees seeking comfort, connection, and peace of mind. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, Morven Manor combines the charm of historical elegance with the convenience of low maintenance living.
One of the standout benefits of living at Morven Manor is its prime location. Conveniently located in Tanti Avenue, just a short walk from Main Street, Mornington. Residents enjoy easy access to local shops, cafés, medical services, and the beach, making daily life both convenient and enjoyable. Whether it's a morning coffee at a nearby café, a walk along the foreshore, or browsing the local markets, everything is within reach without the need to travel far.
From keeping yourself active with a spot of billiards, to pampering yourself in the hair and beauty salon, you will find what you need to make each day enjoyable. Enjoy quiet strolls on Tanti Creek Reserve, relaxed at the community centre, or go on trips to the peninsula—all just a part of everyday life when you make Morven Manor your home.
The community itself is designed with well-being in mind. Morven Manor offers a range of thoughtfully designed independent living units that provide both comfort and privacy. These homes are low maintenance, allowing residents to spend more time doing what they love.
Most units have a private area to make your own. Step outside to your private balcony, perfect for entertaining friends in the fresh air, enjoying a barbecue with your neighbors, grow flowers or simply soak up the morning sun while you plan your day ahead. Our beautifully landscaped gardens offer a serene retreat, ideal for relaxation or gardening enthusiasts. Being a pet-friendly community, Morven Manor allows you to bring your furry companions along for the journey.
Our units are planned with privacy and comfort in mind, each residence provides generous living spaces which maximise natural light and airflow. Where possible each residence captures aspects over Morven Manor’s peaceful gardens. You have an option of one, two or three-bedroom residences so there's always room for visiting friends and family. Most residences have their own garage or a dedicated car space.
A major drawcard of Morven Manor is its strong sense of community. Friendly neighbours and a welcoming environment make it easy to form new friendships and feel at home. The onsite community centre serves as a hub for activities and social events, from exercise classes and hobby groups to movie nights and special celebrations. This vibrant social life fosters connection and combats the loneliness that can sometimes come with retirement.
Safety and support are also key features of the community. With professional staff on hand and an emergency call system in every home, residents and their families can enjoy peace of mind knowing help is available if needed.
Whether you're looking to downsize or seeking a peaceful retreat, Morven Manor offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in one of Mornington's most sought-after locations.
Moving from a family home to our communities mean gaining freedom from the burdens of home maintenance, finding new connections, and pursuing passions.
For more information on Morven Manor Retirement Community, please phone or visit our website.
P: 1300 271 389
W: australianunity.com.au
Enjoy retirement living at Morven Manor. We offer low-maintenance units in a peaceful and pet-friendly community, close to Main Street and Aged Care facilities.
Why choose Morven Manor?
Low maintenance living: Designed for you to move in and start enjoying your new lifestyle. Community spaces and landscaped grounds are all maintained for you.
Convenient access: Conveniently located in Tanti Avenue, just a short walk from Main Street, Mornington, with easy access to amenities, parks, and the stunning beaches of Mornington. Local bus-stop is right at your door.
Your safety, our priority: Bring your furry friends along. Our community is pet-friendly, so your pets can enjoy this lovely space with you.
Experience Real Wellbeing with Australian Unity, where real independence is redefined. Schedule a tour today.
1300 271 389 | australianunity.com.au/morvenmanor
77 Tanti Avenue, Mornington VIC 3931
Why choose a retirement village? For some it’s location, facilities, or services. For others its low maintenance, or new home features. But for most, it’s the promise of a thriving, social, welcoming and supportive lifestyle that is so important.
Greenways Retirement Village offers a lifestyle few can match. It boasts an active, fun and happy community in bayside Seaford, the gateway to the Mornington Peninsula. Being one of the few privately owned villages in Victoria, it puts people first, and has done so for over 48 years. This means that the opportunities to socialise, meet new friends and get involved at the village are encouraged and supported at all levels.
At the heart of the village, the Greenways Community Centre is always busy. Residents come together regularly for a cuppa, an activity or to share a meal in the village restaurant. Residents embrace the many activities on offer as well as events, fundraisers, market days and cocktail parties (to name a few!).
So, whether it be dining events or themed functions such as Australia Day BBQs, Anzac Day Ceremonies, Spring Carnival celebrations, or Village Fashion Shows. Or regular activities such
as a trivia competition, birthday celebrations, bingo, movie afternoons or games groups. Or, for the sports lovers, there’s a private village bowling green and club house, regular indoor bowls sessions, pool/billiards and the village fitness centre.
Whatever your interest, Greenways could be just the right fit for you. Choose from newly refurbished one, two and three bedroom villa units or the convenience and ease of one bedroom apartments close to the village club centre.
Apartments start from $311,000 and villa units from $386,000.
330 Frankston-Dandenong Road, Seaford
P: 9786 8679
W: greenwaysvillage.com.au
Mountain View Leongatha is a boutique lifestyle community exclusively for active people, 55 and over and offers resort living every day. It delivers stylish residences, whilst offering a genuine sense of community.
When completed, Mountainview Village will have a total of 45 villas offering a choice of 2 or 3 bedrooms with single or double garages. The facilities for residents to enjoy includes a community centre, offering an indoor pool, bowling green, lounge and alfresco areas for social interaction. There’s also onsite caravan and boat parking available.
Leongatha is in the heart of South Gippsland, located on the South Gippsland Highway which links Leongatha to Melbourne. Located 135 kilometres south-east of Melbourne.
Leongatha is central to many attractions including Wilsons Promontory National Park, Agnes Falls, Koonwarra, Korumburra, Fish Creek, Meeniyan, Bass Coast (coastline of Kilcunda, Inverloch & Venus Bay) & Phillip Island.
Leongatha is the ideal home base for a life full of wonderful pursuits, and Mountain View Leongatha is the place where you can live and enjoy them.
Experience the boutique retirement dream at Mountain View Leongatha and retire in South Gippsland.
Mountain View Leongatha is open for inspection 4 days a week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9am to 3pm and weekends by appointment.
Call the friendly team at Mountain View Leongatha today.
P: (03) 5612 4800
Did You Know?
The percentage of people aged 65 or older with earwax impaction is reported to be as high as 34%!
Do you experience any of the following?
• Earache
• Itching
• Tinnitus (ringing and buzzing in the ears)
• Vertigo
• Hearing loss
These could be the complications of excessive or impacted earwax.
Why choose microsuction at Viva Hearing?
Microsuction has become widely recognised as the gold standard for efficient and safe earwax removal. This advanced procedure uses a specialised suction device under direct visualisation, allowing for precise and controlled removal of earwax while significantly reducing the risk of trauma to the ear canal and eardrum.
Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is quick, comfortable, and does not require the prior use of eardrops. It is particularly beneficial for seniors looking to improve their hearing without the discomfort or potential infection risks associated with syringing.
Lamble Tours is a family-owned travel business. For over 30 years we have provided extensive touring experiences and happy memories for individuals and groups.
Our itineraries provide a comprehensive guide of daily activities tailored to accommodate all levels of mobility.
There are no hidden extra costs.
Please phone or email to request a detailed itinerary.
Confirmation of your booking necessitates a deposit of $200.00 accompanied by a completed booking form.
We advise prompt action to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy a stress-free holiday from the outset with our door-todoor pick up and return service (Metropolitan and Mornington Peninsula).
I look forward to our future travels.
Kind regards Vickie Lamble
P: 0418 853 810
E: lambletours@bigpond.com
FB: @lambletours
W: lambletours.com.au
The Fire Services Museum of Victoria is an organisation dedicated to the preservation and showcasing of fire-fighting memorabilia from Victoria, Australia and overseas.
It boasts one of the largest collections of fire-fighting memorabilia in Australia, with it being located in one of its prized exhibits: the original headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.
Run completely by volunteers, each with a unique background with the fire services; some being former and current members of Fire Rescue Victoria, the MFB, Country Fire Authority (CFA), Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) and many more other fire-related agencies.
The museum is open Thursday, Friday and Sunday and is easily accessible by train or tram.
For the most up to date news on coming displays and events please check our website and Facebook page.
Gisborne Street,
9662
•
For many Australians over 55, the family home is more than bricks and mortar. It holds memories, security, and increasingly, the potential to shape the next generation’s future. At a time when the cost of living and rising property prices weigh heavily on younger Australians, home equity release loans are emerging as a practical solution to help families share opportunity across generations.
Rather than selling or downsizing, parents can unlock the value in their home to support both their retirement and their children’s financial start. Funds may be used to improve the home, supplement retirement income, or help children with a first home deposit, or education expenses.
Home equity release loan specialist Inviva has been helping many Australian families do just that.
“Using home equity release as a way to strengthen the family balance sheet, can be a smart way to transfer wealth to family when they need it most” says Inviva CEO, Andre Karney. “Rather than waiting until an estate is passed on, parents are choosing to unlock some of the value in their homes today to help their kids with a first home deposit, or education — while still securing their own retirement.”
The impact can be twofold. Parents enjoy greater financial independence in the home they love, while children gain an early foothold in building their own wealth.
However, gifting or lending money to family can come with financial and emotional risks. It’s important to seek professional advice and be clear about the implications. Inviva has resources and templates available on their website to help families set the Bank of Mum and Dad up for success — for more information visit website below.
This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances, objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information and for legal, tax, or financial questions, you should consult with an appropriate professional. Loans are subject to eligibility and lending criteria. Fees, interest rates and terms and conditions apply. Inviva Lending Pty Ltd, serviced by Inviva Services Pty Ltd. Australian Credit Licence 533319.
required
• Funds for any purpose: renovations, travel, refinancing, monthly income and more
At Seaside Bathware, we believe bathrooms should be as beautiful as they are functional. As a family-run small business based right here in Mornington, we take pride in offering a personalised, down-to-earth service that larger retailers simply can't match.
Step into our welcoming showroom and explore five fullsized bathroom displays, carefully curated to inspire and help you visualise your dream space. From modern minimalism to timeless elegance, our displays showcase a wide variety of quality products, fixtures, and styles. We offer everything from tapware, vanities, and tiles to full bathroom fit-outs – all carefully selected for both quality and value.
We’re also proud to feature a fully compliant NDIS and Aged Care bathroom display, thoughtfully designed to meet accessibility needs without compromising on style. Whether you're updating a family bathroom, planning a renovation, or seeking a practical solution for a loved one, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Visit Seaside Bathware in Mornington and discover the difference of shopping locally, where expert advice and genuine customer care are always part of the experience. Book a free 1-hour consultation with one of our knowledgeable showroom consultants and let us help bring your bathroom vision to life.
Raising baby chicks is a great experience for kids, parents and grandparents alike. As the chicks grow they transition through a number of different cute and fluffy stages before becoming fully mature, laying hens.
At Talking Hens, we have always been interested in growing our hens from day-old chicks and finally, we now have the opportunity to actually do it! My father, Agostino was a poultry farmer who would always raise his own baby chicks which I used to love watching as a child. It was amazing to see all those little, fluffy chicks grow into laying hens and the weekly changes in feather growth, body size and confidence as they quickly grew.
There are some important things to understand with growing chicks. These include a heat lamp to provide them with constant 30-degree warmth for the first few weeks of their life as they can’t regulate their own body temperature when young. They also need a sturdy, draft-free enclosure or container to live in with a dry layer of wood shavings or hemp for insulation.
Food and water is also vitally important so good access to the correct water drinker and feeder is needed. They don’t need much food but it must be tailor-made for them to provide all of the nutrients needed. We also have all the other equipment and feed needed to keep them happy and healthy and can answer any questions that you might have as they grow.
Talking Hens will be getting a flock of Hy-Line Brown day-old chicks in spring and will have them available for families. We also have hens available at just before they begin to lay. Make an appointment or visit us.
We are open daily 10am to 4pm.
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 hensa pleasure to be shared! Talking Hens 3590
Dromana Beach Sanctuary of Early Learning is the newest in a set of established early learning services on the peninsula. Situated directly across from the beach, this coastal-style centre portrays the same philosophy and values as its sister centres Mount Eliza House, Frankston Beach and Seaford House. This state-of-the-art centre opened at the start of 2025 and has spaces available.
Dromana Beach is committed to providing a vibrant and flexible environment that supports learning and responds to the interests and abilities of each child. The program includes sustainability principles and a health and wellbeing focus, with a strong belief that children are connected to the wider community and environment. A balance of indoor and outdoor experiences is provided within the service's natural landscape and through the Beach and Bush Kinder program, as well as the highly sought-after Nippers program delivered by Victorian Surf Lifesaving.
Buddy the golden retriever is a valued member of the team and visits all of the services regularly, bringing joy and laughter to all of the children.
The play-based program provides opportunities for children to grow, discover, create and imagine. Children are acknowledged as capable, competent and co-contributors who actively participate in their own learning.
The inclusive program recognises the individual learning styles of all children, and it values families for their unique contributions to the centre community. The intention is to support children to be kind, respectful and confident contributors to their community and the world.
The experienced and knowledgeable educators are committed to providing a warm, nurturing environment that recognises childhood as a very special and important time.
299-301 Point Nepean Road, Dromana
P: 5981 8299
E: info@dromanabeach.com.au
W: dromanabeach.com.au
Offering 3 and 4 year old Kindergarten for 2025/26 Your most precious people are our priority Curiosity and wonder lead to a natural desire to learn Exclusive Beach Program available for all ages includes: Beach Babies Beach Kinder Nippers
Frankston Beach Sanctuary of Early Learning 366-368 Nepean Hwy, Frankston E info@frankstonbeach.com.au
P 9781 4600 W frankstonbeach.com.au
Dromana Beach Sanctuary of Early Learning 299-301 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana E info@dromanabeach.com.au P 5981 8299 W dromanabeach.com.au
Frankston Sanctuary of Early Learning 1-3 Vera St, Frankston E info@frankstonhouse.com.au P 9783 1117 W frankstonhouse.com.au
The Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup returns on Saturday, 22 November 2025, and this year it’s bigger, bolder, and unapologetically chaotic. As the City of Casey’s premier social and sporting event, the Cup is a day where world-class racing collides with fashion, food, music, and memories that last long after the horses have crossed the line.
On the track, punters can expect the $500,000 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup and the $1 million Meteorite — both headline races that attract elite horses, champion jockeys, and the kind of nail-biting finishes that make racing so thrilling. Off the turf, the atmosphere is just as electrifying. From vibrant hospitality precincts and stylish fashion showcases to the energy of General Admission party zones, there’s a space for everyone to find their own piece of chaos.
Entertainment takes centre stage once the last horse has bolted, with Dave Gleeson (The Screaming Jets), Tania Doko (Bachelor Girl), and Mark Gable (The Choirboys) performing live to ensure the celebration doesn’t stop when the races do.
This year’s campaign says it all: Come for the chaos. Leave with a story. Whether you’re there for the horses, the glamour, the music, or simply to soak in the atmosphere with friends, Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup Day promises a spring experience like no other. Tickets are on sale now, with GA early bird prices available until 1 November and a range of premium hospitality packages also on offer. Don’t just hear the stories — be part of them.
Go to the website and book your tickets now!
W: southsideracing.com.au
RED HILL
HILL & RIDGE COMMUNITY MARKET
184 ARTHURS SEAT RD, RED HILL
Sat 4 October, 9am to 2pm
Locals and visitors gather to celebrate fresh produce, handmade creations, delicious eats, and friendly smiles. A true community market.
hillandridgemarket.com.au
FRANKSTON
BEAUTY PARK, FRANKSTON
Sat 25 October, 9am to 2pm
Filled to the brim with awesomenessLittle Beauty features 100+ of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos. Free entry. Dogs welcome!
littlebeautymarket.com.au
ADVERTISE YOUR MARKET WITH US!
TO LIST YOUR MARKET IN OUR DIRECTORY: CALL RICKY TO BOOK: 0425 867 578
EMU PLAINS MARKET
EMU PLAINS RESERVE, BALNARRING
Sat 18 October, 9am to 2pm
More than just a market the EPM is a monthly celebration of art, food, design and community. Explore & support 200+ incredible small businesses each month! emuplainsmarket.com.au
MAIN STREET MARKET
MAIN ST, MORNINGTON
EVERY WEDNESDAY, 9am to 3pm
Hand made, hand baked and home grown products for you to peruse and purchase. Victoria's longest running street market.
mainstreetmornington.com.au
Located at the top end of High Street in Hastings, a beautiful, private boutique salon awaits.
Lillian Mac Skin & Beauty has a mission to provide remarkable treatments and ensure a memorable service to every one of their valued clients.
Patient, accommodating staff provide impeccable, knowledgeable services to meet every need and their extensive range of beauty treatments cater to every whim.
As soon as you walk through the door a serene and beautiful space awaits encouraging you to wind down and take a moment for yourself.
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1. Loses strength
5. Shopping mall
9. Tight curly hair
12. Loom operators
16. Hackneyed
17. Tartan
18. Injection device
20. Proliferates
22. Xmas sprig
23. Abided
24. Heavy horned mammals, white ...
26. Resilience
27. Barbed comments
28. Spineless organisms
31. Watches
32. Car motor
34. Equine complex
36. Coagulate
37. Hastens
40. Large IT company (1,1,1)
42. Vibrate
43. Deadly sins number
45. Truant
47. Located
49. Religious cults
50. Youth
52. Neither here nor ...
54. Goliath's foe
55. Staple crop
56. Exclude
58. Subcontinent nation
59. Crinkly cabbage
60. Petty (gossip)
61. AM, ... meridiem
62. Cobra or boa
63. Norwegian capital
64. Stockpiles
67. Complacent
68. Gold leaf
69. Straighten (rope)
72. TV frequency (1,1,1)
74. Sign up for magazine
78. Pig home
79. Adam's partner
80. And so on
81. Internet message
82. Tint
85. Grottoes
87. Ellipses
88. Mixer drink
90. Sachet of petals
91. Fatigue symptom
92. Schnitzel meat
93. Thespian
94. Chirp
95. Exceedingly
96. Single line
97. Intoxicate
100. Illegally assist
102. Peruvian pack animal
103. Of the sun
104. Conceals
106. Throw a tantrum (3,2)
108. Health resort
109. Excessive, ... much
110. Amount of money
112. Wrapped
116. Equipment
118. Lays
120. Only now
121. Fertiliser ingredient
123. Add spices to
125. Muslim leader
126. Recessed pattern
127. Sleazy gaze
128. Crowd sound
129. Identifies
130. Colder
131. Sacred Nile bird
132. Toadstools
134. Rackets
136. Hands (out)
139. Global police agency
141. Pale furniture wood
142. Marsh
144. Traditional narratives
146. Fungal skin disease
147. Fable writer
148. Exclamation, ... whiz!
149. Mishandling (3-8)
151. It is (poetic) ('3)
152. Boarding house resident
155. Adorned, ... the lily
158. Italian basil sauce
159. Child's verses (7,6)
162. Mode of employment
164. Although
165. Taking nap
166. Crotchety
170. Motif
171. Pungent bleach
172. Elderly spinster (3,4)
173. Expel from homeland
174. Calm
175. Abandoned
176. Decelerates
177. Scope
178. Extremely excited, ...up
1. Erasing (recording)
2. Warning signal (5,5)
3. Seal of approval
4. Figuring (out)
5. Pilfer
6. Cousin's mum
7. Cain's victim
8. Defrost
9. Insipid
10. Apple MP3 player
11. Craziest
12. Laundry sink
13. Accomplishment
14. Animating
15. Computer tablet pen
19. Spent
21. Greek letter
25. Moves furtively
26. Army eateries
29. Recited, ... off
30. Raised (kids)
33. Is left with
35. February birthstone
36. LP turntable
38. Room tops
39. Alienate
41. Fantastically
42. Understand
44. Born as
46. Beat
48. Intimidates
49. Worse
51. Go to bistro (3,3)
53. Rivals
55. Fleecy garments
57. Coal by-product
60. Olympic Games body (1,1,1)
65. Magic word
66. One-on-one fights
70. Stockings fibre
71. Decorative flowerbed plants
73. Medieval social system
75. Unbutton
76. Imaginative
77. Endure
78. Keepsakes album
83. 4th month
84. Early anaesthetic
85. Thick lotion
86. Naughty pleasures
89. High card
91. Yes vote
92. Garaging service (5,7)
96. Sham
98. Curry bread
99. Dickens' A ... Of Two
Cities
101. Flavour
103. Japanese warrior
105. Braced (oneself)
107. Practical jokers
111. Finished supply of (4,2)
112. Delicate
113. Castrated man
114. Family crest, coat ... (2,4)
115. Ghost ship, The Flying ...
117. Hebrew country
119. Mongrel
120. Tinkling
122. Cross section of plane's wing
124. French pal
132. Spongers
133. Negative adverb
134. Reaping blade
135. Stop listening, ... off
137. Sever (branches)
138. Goings-on
140. Finance ministers
141. Lebanon's seat of government
143. Fixed (price)
145. Bizarre
150. Cairo native
153. Expert (3,4)
154. Conundrums
156. Segregate
157. Became unproductive (5,2)
158. Pockmarked
160. Hindu dress
161. Shout
163. Prolong
166. Involved in 167. Knocks sharply 168. Transvaal colonist
169. Garden of Creation
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By Peter McCullough
The Black Friday bushfires of January 1939 in Victoria were part of the devastating 193839 bushfire season in Australia which saw fires burning for the whole summer and ash falling on the glaciers in New Zealand.
In Victoria, Black Friday, 13 January, was in fact the worst day in a spell which extended from the previous Sunday through to Sunday 15 January when most welcome rain fell across the state. It is now recognized as the third deadliest bushfire event in Australian history, only behind the 1983 Ash Wednesday and 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.
On 13 January 1939 the temperature in Melbourne reached 45.6 C (114.08 F) with very low humidity levels. Large areas were affected and smoke covered 75% of the state. Narbethong, Noojee, Woods Point, Nayook West and Hill End were completely destroyed and many other towns were severely damaged. The total number of lives lost in January was 71 (36 on Black Friday alone) and 3,700 buildings were destroyed or damaged including 1,300 houses and 69 sawmills. The fires burned almost two million hectares (4.9 million acres) and resulted in the deaths of thousands of cattle, sheep and horses as well as untold native animals. Where the fire was most intense the soil itself was burnt to a considerable depth.
one jumped into a water tank thinking that he would be safe, but he was boiled alive when the fire swept through. In total 16 men were killed.
How was the Mornington Peninsula affected by the Black Friday bushfires? In fact the peninsula had an early taste of what was to come as bushfires caused havoc in Dromana and, to a lesser extent, Frankston on Sunday 8 January.
Dromana
The headlines of the article in The Age of Monday 9 January expressed the horror that gripped Dromana on the previous day: ‘Fire Fiend at Dromana’, ‘Forty-three Houses Destroyed’ and ‘Campers Drive Into the Sea’. The situation is summed up in the opening few sentences: “Yesterday was the blackest day in the history of Dromana when a fire, fanned by a strong north-westerly wind, swept from the hills to the outskirts of the town. After destroying forty-three houses, the fire jumped Point Nepean Road, and roared through the undergrowth and tea-tree, forcing campers to drive their cars into the sea to escape destruction. A hastily recruited army of fire-fighters was powerless against the roaring flames, and only a fortunate change in the wind saved the entire town from destruction.”
The fire appeared to start late morning in a gully “near the seaside home of the Fareys of Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn”. Soon “half a mile of the Bayside was alight”. The flames swept towards Arthurs Seat, two miles distant. “The slopes of the mountain are studded
There were a number of horrific stories of those caught in the path of a fire. In the Matlock forest men at two sawmills were trapped, Some tried to make a run for it only to die in the flames; continued next page...
with holiday homes, and all which came in the path of the fire were destroyed. So rapid was the sweep of destruction that there was no possibility of saving even lighter articles of furniture. Indeed, in many cases, furniture was rushed out of the doomed houses only to be ignited by flying debris and destroyed on the road.”
The alarm was given in nearby resorts and within a short time over 300 “willing fighters” gathered to fight the onrush of the flames. “Sparks and blazing debris were often carried 100 yards to start a fresh outbreak over the heads of the fighters. In many cases the onrush was so rapid that they had to beat a hasty retreat to avoid being involved in the general destruction.”
Sweeping up everything in its path, the fire soon reached the foreshore and in a matter of minutes fifty foreshore camps were menaced. There was barely time for the holiday makers to start the car, link up the trailer or caravan, and drive pell-mell to the sea, abandoning tents, clothing and camping equipment to the flames. Even at the water’s edge the heat and smoke were stifling. People who had taken shelter there had to cover their faces with towels soaked in sea water.
The Age report provided a comprehensive list of houses destroyed. “Nearly all were not occupied by their owners, but had been let for the holiday period to visitors from the city. These were clad enough to escape in the clothes they were wearing, leaving the rest of their belongings to destruction. Some unfortunates had just returned from their morning swim and had to return to their city homes clad only in their bathers.”
Some of the holiday homes mentioned in the account had quirky names such as ‘Topsy Turvey’, ‘Higgledy Piggledy’, the ‘camp of the Women Haters’ and the ‘Home of the Trained Nurses’ which had ten nurses in residence. Although the house of Hector Greig was destroyed, some of the furniture was saved including “a frigidaire”. The Age reporter commented: “It contained a generous supply of liquid refreshment, and with the hearty good will of the owner, it disappeared as if by magic. It is possibly the first time in the history of fire destruction that the fire fighters have been served with liquid refreshment ‘off the ice’ in the heart of a conflagration.”
No one was spared. “Among the visitors to Dromana was Rev. T. Rentoul. He was at divine service at the local Methodist church when the church bell sounded the fire alarm. The service was abandoned and the males of the congregation joined the fire fighters. Mr. Rentoul was one of the first on the scene, but later had to watch his own house in the grip of the flames. Nothing was saved.”
The other popular newspaper, The Argus, also had a comprehensive account of the event which included this story: “A remarkable escape was that of Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Kennedy who live at the corner of Latrobe Parade and Grant Street. Because of the heat earlier in the morning they had drawn their window blinds. They were having luncheon about midday when Mrs. Kennedy happened to raise one of the blinds. She was astonished to see that a wall of flame was descending upon their home.
While the adjoining house owned by Mr. M. Owen was burning, Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy bundled clothes from their wardrobes into suitcases and ran to their car. On returning to the car with a second load of suitcases, Mrs. Kennedy found that the car had caught fire.
Mrs. Kennedy dropped the cases and obtained a bucket of water with which she extinguished the flames. When Mr. Kennedy joined her a few moments later he found that two bags inside the car were ablaze. He returned to his house and fought the flames for a few minutes but was forced to retreat by the heat and the smoke.”
continued next page...
Both newspapers carried reports of praiseworthy behaviour: “In the confusion attendant on such widespread destruction, individual acts of heroism passed unnoticed. There were many timely rescues. When the house of Mr. Mathieson caught fire, an elderly woman, Mrs. Kerr, whose son and family were in the house, was resting in her room. The rear of the building was burning fiercely as she was being carried to a place of safety.” (The Age) “Several invalids were carried out to cars which were driven along streets in which houses were already blazing, and women who had fainted from shock and the intense heat were carried by men to the beach.” (The Argus)
The correspondent from The Age concluded his report on a positive note: “Residents congratulate themselves that although there has been such extensive loss of property, no lives have been lost.”
The Age of 9 January 1939 contained an article headed ‘Frankston’s Worst Fire’. Claimed to be the worst outbreak ever experienced in the Frankston district, it swept across a wide area and destroyed five weatherboards. The Argus reported “The town was covered with a thick pall of smoke and the alarm bell tolled almost continuously throughout the day”.
It was a case of ‘all hands on deck’ for among the 600 who reportedly fought the flames were Major-General Grimwade, Sir T. Blamey and Sir H. G. Smith. Many of the volunteers were holiday makers and were clad only in shorts and athletic singlets; they “emerged from the scene temporarily blinded by the smoke and blackened by the dust and flying cinders”.
The flames spread from near the former Jamboree site at the south of Frankston and raced towards the town. “In the vicinity of Woodlands Grove scores of houses were endangered, and epic battles were staged to save each one as the flames reached them.” None-the-less three weatherboards were destroyed and a bungalow was burnt to the ground.
Before long the fire was endangering scores of houses in Yuille and Denbigh Streets. It jumped Yuille Street and swept through dense scrub and tea-tree which burnt fiercely. Many houses and weekend shacks in this area were hurriedly abandoned by their occupants. In Denbigh Street many residents stacked valuables in the street in preparation for a quick exit from their homes. However, due to the efforts of firemen and volunteers, only two small weatherboards in this area were destroyed. The fire burnt to the municipal golf links about a quarter of a mile from the town centre.
The Frankston fire burnt over an area of about five square miles, and in many cases fences and hedges were ignited before the flames were beaten out, Because of the much larger number of fire fighters and possibly the topography, the losses in this fire were minimal when compared to the blaze at Dromana. Again, fortunately, there was no loss of life.
The infernos of January 1939 had a momentous impact on Victoria’s management of fire, leading to the establishment of the Country Fire Authority.
