Jodie Goldsworthy advocates for honey bees in Beechworth
Artist Ralph Bristow creates a garden for all seasons
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Sisters Sophie and Grace Darling lead Darling Estate Wines
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KIND WORDS SHARED BY ONE OF OUR MANY VALUED CLIENTS:
“We recently moved house with the help of Garry Nash & Co, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! From the very beginning, their team made the entire process so easy and stress-free. They were incredibly professional, organised, and always available to answer our questions, no matter how small. Their attention to detail and personalised approach ensured everything went smoothly, from organising paperwork to coordinating the move-in day. We truly felt supported every step of the way. If you’re looking for a team that takes the stress out of moving & genuinely cares about their clients, we highly recommend Garry Nash & Co!”
- MICHELLE, HOME BUYER, JANUARY 2025
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16
WORKER BEE
Beechworth’s Jodie Goldsworthy has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to primary industry.
22
PEACEFUL LIVING IN THE LITTLE GRANITE HOUSE
A low-impact house with a small footprint in rural Wooragee.
28 SUPPORTING CHANGES AT PLAY
For over 20 years, the North East Regional Pre School Association has created a supportive environment.
34 PRESERVING HERITAGE IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
The community rallies to create the Mansfield Heritage Museum.
40 WHEN GIRLS ARE BOOTED OUT OF FOOTBALL
A look at the challenges faced by girls who want to keep playing the sport they love.
48 KOOMBAHLA IN THE KING VALLEY
Sophie and Grace Darling are the next generation of caretakers at Darling Estate Wines.
56 STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE AT AVA
Paul and Monique Szeligiewicz have created destination dining in Milawa.
62
SHARING A LOVE OF HOME
Paula Harrington welcomes visitors to experience the Whorouly lifestyle.
68
LIFE IS WHAT YOU BAKE IT
Beechworth Bakery thriving for over four decades.
72
BREWING BEEF SUCCESS IN TALLANGATTA VALLEY
The Brewer family continues to build on their specialty cattle herd.
78
FAIR PLAY ON THE FAIRWAY
Pro golfer and Olympian Marcus Fraser never loses touch with his Corowa connections.
82 NORTH EAST WEDDINGS
88
MEDITATION ON A LIVING LANDSCAPE
Artist and garden designer Ralph Bristow creates The Barwitian Garden.
94
NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR MT BUFFALO CHALET
A heritage-listed icon of the High Country has a new purpose.
98
ALWAYS A LOCAL
Meet former AFL player and Wangaratta resident, Danny Craven.
to our 20th edition of North East Living magazine.
THE team is proud to present to you the 20th edition of North East Living. Over the years we have enjoyed bringing you an interesting mix of stories celebrating the people, places and communities who make this region such a great place to live, and this edition is no exception.
This year, Beechworth’s Jodie Goldsworthy was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia Day Honours list for significant service to primary industry, and her commitment of time and energy to the honey bee and pollination sector is truly remarkable. We’re delighted to share her story and her passion for bees with you.
We also talk to Sophie and Grace Darling who have taken the reins at Darling Estate Wines in the King Valley and hear about their approach to winemaking, their innovative varieties and the opening of their new cellar door.
Quite amazing to read about is the commitment of local volunteers from all walks of life who have worked together over decades to get the Mansfield Heritage Museum project off the ground, and how for 20 years, the North East Regional Pre School Association has created a supportive, collaborative environment benefitting all in the sector.
We meet the Mckeeman family who love their new home in Wooragee and say that building a passive, sustainable home is achievable. They are on our cover, captured in award-winning photos by Jeremy Weihrauch.
Former North East Media journalist Hannah Kennelly also shares her in-depth look at the challenges faced by girls reaching their teens who want to keep playing AFLW. Have a look at what’s on the menu at Ava in Milawa, and take a tour through the spectacular garden for all seasons designed by local artist, Ralph Bristow in Barwite. Please settle in and enjoy all there is to offer inside.
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• Editor Jeff Zeuschner (jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au)
Jeff Zeuschner, Anita McPherson, Simone Kerwin, Emma Oliver, Coral Cooksley, Bailey Zimmermann, Steve Kelly, Kurt Hickling.
• Contributing photographers and writers Jeremy Weihrauch, NERPSA, Hannah Kennelly, Jason Robins, Simon Schulter, The Age, Sandra Lee Photography, Darling Estate Wines, Propel Digital, Erin Davis Hartwig, Beechworth Bakery, Brewer Beef, Mike Casper, Shutterstock.com, Corowa Golf Club, Rachael Emmily Photography, Nicky Sanders, Danny Craven, St Kilda Football Club.
• Cover Image
The Mckeeman family in the Little Granite House by BRD Studio.
PHOTO: Jeremy Weihrauch
• Advertising Sales
Kevin Spendier, Ian Pople, Leah Scott. sales@nemedia.com.au
• Design & Artwork
Kelly Lovell and NEM Creative team – nemcreative.com.au. (Abbey Truelsen, Chris Febvre, Peter Frezzini, Lucinda Irvine, Sam Reiher, Aasta Arctander and Darcee Schulz-Dahlenburg.)
• Distribution
Emily Mason - emason@nemedia.com.au
No material, artwork or photos may be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. North East Living magazine takes care in compiling content but cannot accept responsibility for any errors. Every effort is made to confirm events and calendar dates however dates can change and errors may occur.
The next edition of North East Living magazine is expected to hit shelves in early 2026. For all enquiries including being involved in the next edition or where you can pick up a copy of our publication please contact the team at North East Living magazine on (03) 5723 0100 or at sales@nemedia.com.au.
CELEBRATES 20 YEARS!
Alpine Holiday Rentals: Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence in the Victorian Alpine Region.
For two decades, Alpine Holiday Rentals has been at the forefront of premium holiday accommodations in Victoria's breathtaking High Country. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we reflect on a journey built on quality, service, and a deep passion for delivering unforgettable alpine experiences.
Founded in 2005, Alpine Holiday Rentals has grown into a trusted name for travellers seeking the perfect escape amidst the pristine landscapes of the Victorian Alps. Whether you're drawn to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Buller, the tranquil beauty of Lake Eildon, or the charming countryside of Mansfield, we have curated an extensive portfolio of properties to suit every traveler’s needs. From cozy chalets to luxury lodges, our accommodations provide the perfect setting for relaxation, adventure, and everything in between.
Over the years, we have worked closely with property owners across the region and guests alike to ensure that every stay exceeds expectations. Our dedicated team brings local expertise and personalised service, making every guest feel at home from the moment they arrive. We take pride in the relationships we have built with our guests, many of whom return year after year, drawn by the warm welcome and high standards they have come to expect from Alpine Holiday Rentals.
The Victorian Alpine region is a year-round destination, and Alpine Holiday Rentals has been proud to help visitors experience it’s many wonders. Whether it’s skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking and cycling in summer, or exploring the region’s renowned food and wine scene, our properties serve as the perfect base for adventure. From adrenaline-fueled outdoor activities to peaceful retreats surrounded by nature, our accommodations provide an ideal launchpad for every kind of traveler.
This year we have our sights set on expanding our portfolio even further across the region; to Mt Hotham, Bright, Beechworth and beyond. As we celebrate this very successful milestone, we want to extend our gratitude to our loyal guests, property owners, and community partners. Your support has been instrumental in our journey, and we look forward to continuing to provide outstanding holiday experiences for years to come.
If you’re a home owner in the region and would love to showcase with us - get in touch today to discuss how we can help you list and elevate your luxury property!
For more information or to book a stay, visit us at alpineholidayrentals.com.au to explore our stunning collection of holiday rentals and start planning your next adventure.
Here’s to 20 years of unforgettable getaways – and many more to come!
1300 371 732
@alpineholidayrentals
alpineholidayrentals.com.au
bookings@alpineholidayrentals.com.au
ARCHITECT + BUILDER
BRD Studio is an architect and construction business based in North East Victoria. We specialise in the design and delivery of bespoke architectural homes.
As both architects and builders, BRD Studio is uniquely positioned to ensure seamless and consistent project delivery from the outset. In collaboration with our clients and their sites, our designs demonstrate our creativity, holistic approach and understanding of materials.
GRANITE HOUSE WOORAGEE, VIC. 2022
The Little Granite House was meticulously designed to integrate the setting of Victoria’s High Country. The rural residence needed to provide comfort for a family of five amidst extreme weather conditions, ranging from -5°C to 45°C, while fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape and its seasonal changes.
Architect Tim Smith, director of BRD Studio, explains that the design draws inspiration from local agricultural structures to create a harmonious relationship with the local context. The simple gable shape and strategic apertures enhance the home’s connection to outdoor life without overshadowing its
surroundings. Materials were chosen for their integration with the landscape, considering factors like local availability, bushfire resistance, shading, maintenance, and aging properties.
Galvanized steel cladding ensures durability and environmental coherence, while cypress macrocarpa accents add a natural touch. Over time, the galvanised metal and timber will patina, blending seamlessly with the site’s natural rhythms.
Inside, the home features shining gum timber floors from a nearby sustainable plantation and local granite aggregate in the polished concrete slab, honoring the area’s granite boulders.
LITTLE
Worker bee
Beechworth’s Jodie Goldsworthy AM has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to primary industry and continues to dedicate her life to advocating for honey bees and the vital role they play.
A BIP of the horn shifts a few cows meandering along a country road not far from Yackandandah. Rays of sunshine glisten through the forest gum trees – alpine ash, peppermint and stringy bark among them - as we snake our way upwards through twists and turns in the four-wheel drive. Snow grass drapes over side embankments. Glimpses of the Great Dividing Range with its hues of blue is a picturesque backdrop beyond steep valleys of the State Forest and undulating farmland hills to the west. This has been one of nature’s playgrounds for Beechworth Honey Group co-owner and director Jodie Goldsworthy while growing up. She knows this area like the back of her hand. The fourth-generation apiarist played in the creek we crossed while her parents tended beehives close by where Jodie, with her husband and bee-keeping partner Steven Goldsworthy, keep some of their own hives today. With that in mind the couple travel as they work within a 600-kilometre radius of Beechworth, taking in southern New South Wales and Western Victoria to locate their hives. In the past they have been as far as Queensland, down to Gippsland and central Victoria.
“It’s not only with the bees. You always have to stay one
step ahead. A beekeeper’s job is to make sure that there’s the next lot of flowers to move the hives to. It takes a lot of forward planning and an extensive botanical knowledge,” Jodie said.
“They’re just fascinating little things to watch. You need to check if the bees have enough pollen. Pollen is their protein source and keeps the hive breeding and healthy. If they’re happy they’re probably bringing in some sort of nectar as well. When the flowers stop flowering, we need to move the hives somewhere else. The bees are moved about every four to six weeks through the summer.”
Steven’s focus is on the hives and the incoming honey. He loves shifting the hives and removing the full boxes of fresh honeycomb while Jodie with a good team behind her focuses on the key commercial aspects of running the business. Her time is devoted to working with customers from an education perspective and working on volunteer projects. The couple are always highlighting the critical role of beekeepers both nationally and internationally and their work in protecting bees to provide vital food security, biodiversity and sustainability for a healthy planet. >>
words Coral Cooksley photos Kurt Hickling
GOLD / Jodie and Steve Goldsworthy started their 7-day a week beekeeping business, with its pure and natural honey, from scratch.
Jodie has a profound passion for improving the beekeeping industry, and she sees her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in this year’s Australia Day Honours list for significant service to primary industry - particularly the honey bee and pollination sector – as being recognition for the vital role that bees play.
“It means so much, when you have dedicated your life and prioritised voluntary work over many other things to protect bees and educate people about them - it’s incredibly humbling,” she said.
“But this recognition is also for people and the team who work behind the scenes and have supported me, our industry and also for the amazing organisations I have worked for.
“You just keep doing what you’re doing in the hope that it’s having some impact, and this is acknowledgement that it is. It feels like a marathon, and it doesn’t stop here as we still have a lot of work to do.”
It’s no surprise Jodie, with a love of bees, nature and the environment, has become a passionate advocate for all, having grown up in a beekeeping family with its rich history and been immersed in the industry from a very young age. Jodie said as a child in any agricultural business, an apprenticeship is undertaken without really realising it. For more than 140 years, Jodie’s family has kept bees around Beechworth, with her great grandfather having created a small business in the gold rush days, followed by his two sons who then extended the operation, then to Jodie’s father and his brother. Jodie’s mother also became a beekeeper and set a legacy for female beekeepers to come. Jodie and Steve now run one of the most iconic and largest independently owned specialist honey businesses in Australia. Following in the
footsteps of her parents, Jodie and Steve started their sevenday a week beekeeping business, with its pure and natural honey, from scratch. The couple decided to pack their own honey which gave them some control over their own destiny.
“We bought about 400 hives to begin with, our own truck, and we set ourselves up to be financially independent. We had the best of both worlds as we could draw on family knowledge and experience,” said Jodie.
“When you start with nothing behind you, you have nothing to lose. In the beginning you’re really at your most powerful because you can explore freely, take opportunity after opportunity with really nothing at stake. Over time we’ve built really strong relationships with beekeepers. We’ve always treated them like we would like to be treated. We’re one of them, and so we’ve never really lost our foundations.”
Throughout her career Jodie has recognised that policy makers needed to understand complex issues facing bees and beekeepers. As a driving force for change needed in the industry, passionately advocating about the essential role of honey bees in food production, she has spent years voluntarily working with like-minded people in traditional industry and other organisations who share the same passion and vision. Throughout her career, Jodie has juggled the roles of business owner, mother, agitator, advocate and volunteer. An opportunity for growth and learning that stood her in good stead, was spending six years as a member of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Regional Women’s Advisory Council - an outof-the-blue invitation that has paid dividends ever since for her advocacy work and voluntary industry positions.
“This time taught me that diversity is a wonderful thing. Having your vision, ideas and experiences challenged by other
PLANNING AHEAD / Jodie Goldsworthy said hives may be moved every four to six weeks through summer, to where flowers will next be in bloom.
people who have their own set of valuable experiences leads to better outcomes,” Jodie said.
“I was so fortunate, because the nurturing and the opportunity to learn and watch amazingly effective women from across the country go about what they did with impact, was like another apprenticeship - showing up and making a difference.”
While seated at the right table to have a voice, Jodie recalls a meeting in Canberra where a politician said, ‘always remember, the world is shaped by those who bother to turn up’.
“It’s incredibly important and it doesn’t matter what it isyou have to be at the right table - and it’s really special to have input,” she said.
“I’ve been lucky and had amazing opportunities to help shape rural and regional Australia and to try and share the importance of bees with organisations such as the National Farmers Federation and Australian Food and Grocery Council.”
Besides being a former member of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Regional Women’s Advisory Council, in previous years Jodie sat on the Horticulture Innovation Pollination Expert Advisory Panel and was a member of the Australian Government’s Food Processing Industry Strategy Group. Dedicated to the honey bee industry for three decades, Jodie has championed advocacy across the sector and committed time and energy taking up various positions on boards locally and nationally across such organisations as the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council, and the Australian Food and Grocery Council for six years. Working at an international level, Jodie spent eight years as the Oceania regional president of the International Federation of Beekeeping Association, Apimondia, with its 128 member countries
including Australia. She is now Oceania’s regional’s vice president.
“I was nominated for the Oceania president’s role by my New Zealand colleagues for the international peak body, that has five global regional presidents,” Jodie said.
Her significant contribution as a founding member of Apimondia’s honey adulteration working group has helped shape the development of international standards both in the US and in Europe – a complex topic where collaboration and collective global action is required. Jodie is a director and a founding member of The Wheen Bee Foundation - a not-for-profit charity she helped set up in 2011 with the late Linton Briggs, a queen bee breeder from Glenrowan, and the foundation’s retired chairman Dr Max Whitten. She attributes them both as having been incredible mentors. The foundation, promoting the importance of bees for food security and raising funds for research to address national and global threats to bees, this year received funds to develop an Australian pollination strategy, for which Jodie has been advocating for a long time. Jodie is also committed to educating the next generation about bees through initiatives like Beechworth Honey’s Bee School, and the Centre for Bee Education, run in collaboration with The Wheen Bee Foundation. She is fortunate to have a background in teacher training as well as a science degree, having studied those disciplines after leaving high school, before re-entering the world of honey bees.
“A tertiary education helps you gather facts as well as understand the importance of life-long learning,” she said.
“This, combined with the knowledge of beekeeping, has given me a unique combination of skills and a deep understanding of how an important industry works.” >>
SERIOUS BUSINESS / Jodie Goldsworthy has always recognised policy makers needed to understand complex issues facing bees and beekeepers.
When it comes to educating people about bees, Jodie speaks passionately about the Bee Arboretum just outside Beechworth and her love of planting trees. Planting 10,000 trees for bees in collaboration with the Beechworth Urban Landcare group leaves a legacy for bees and bee education.
“We’ve chosen trees that are good nectar and pollen producers and helped people to understand why it’s so important to have a few species flowering across the year to support bees and other pollinators,” she said.
A national pollination strategy being developed by the Wheen Bee Foundation, and seeds collectively sown by the Apimondia Working Group against honey adulteration, are two additional, important legacies Jodie is contributing to the honey industry.
“We have to continue with public education about honey adulteration for better decision-making,” she said.
“If people know and understand the important role that bees play, as a consumer, they have the power to make a really good choice by choosing a product that can be traced back to a beehive. Through education, better environmental outcomes can be the result. But I think the biggest legacy for anyone is family, and for me, my children all have a love for bees, agriculture and nature. You can leave the legacy from your own work, but the seeds I’ve planted inside the family have sprouted as well.”
In summing up her significant work to the honey industry Jodie said bees are collaborative and they work for the greater good.
“I’m happy to be known as a worker bee,” she said.
SHARING / Jodie Goldsworthy is committed to educating the next generation about bees through initiatives like Beechworth Honey’s Bee School.
in the little granite house Peaceful living
A low-impact house with a small footprint in rural Wooragee is the ideal family home for Tyla and Lachie Mckeeman and their three young children.
AN off-grid and low-impact family home in the rural enclave of Wooragee is proof you don’t have to compromise on quality, comfort and liveability when you choose to build on a smaller scale.
Tyla and Lachie Mckeeman, originally from Geelong, were living in a large, suburban house they built in Wodonga, but had always had the long-term goal of moving onto acreage and began looking around the Yackandandah region of North East Victoria. They wanted a property on the outskirts of a town and found 28 acres of farmland for sale in Wooragee, attracted by the outlook, the nearby rail trail, and the mountain bike paths which would give their kids the opportunity to cycle to the local primary school. Tyla said they wanted something manageable with plenty of space for the kids and to have a few animals, but with Lachie working long hours as a doctor in Albury, it also needed to be small enough for them to manage without too much trouble.
They bought the property in 2019 and originally planned to wait a few years before building, but they loved it so much, they decided to speed up the process so they could move there. The couple had seen a small, sustainable home in Woodend which was just what they had in mind, and after some research, found Tim Smith of BRD Studio in Chiltern was building homes of a similar style. While they had looked at different architects
and spoken to other builders, they suspected they were on the same wavelength with Tim, but had no idea then how good a match it would turn out to be.
“We had this idea in our heads of what the house could be like, and then Tim turned up on site with his little card table, set it up and sketched a home - and it was like he had read our minds,” said Lachie.
“He had this perfect idea of what we wanted, and it’s exactly what we got.”
Lachie explains they had imagined something like a shearing shed, which looked like it was already part of the existing landscape. He said at the time the land was just a bare, overgrazed hill, which they planned to rejuvenate by extensively planting trees and shrubs and creating different microclimates. The couple wanted their home to have a small footprint and as minimal impact on the land as possible, not minding at all if it was immersed in the countryside and unable to be seen from the road. The priorities were for it be off-grid and as passive and sustainable as possible, without compromising on liveability, but it also needed to be achieved within a realistic budget. To do it, they chose to make modifications which would improve their energy efficiency and energy rating, but which wouldn’t significantly increase their costs. >>
words Anita McPherson photos Jeremy Weihrauch
RURAL LIFE / The couple imagined a contemporary home which looked like a shearing shed and blended into the existing landscape.
OUTDOOR FLOW / The home’s north-facing orientation means the living area is effectively solar heated during the winter months. Consideration was given to the quality and practicality of materials used, and to having well-used and versatile family spaces rather than multiple, unused rooms.
While initially their plans were to build slightly bigger, they instead tackled the project in two stages, building a 100m2 twobedroom home they could add an additional bedroom to later. The home is split into two main zones for living and for sleeping, with an entry in between, and the focus is on being connected with the outdoors. The living zone features a kitchen, dining and living area that opens to a north-facing deck, capturing views of Mount Baranduda and Mount Pilot. The sleeping zone has two bedrooms, a bathroom and a study with a fold-out bed for guests, which the children can also use as a playroom.
The home’s north-facing orientation means the living area is effectively solar heated during the winter months by sun streaming into the kitchen, making the polished concrete floor warm enough to walk on in bare feet. Considered planting including deciduous trees to the west and an ornamental grape vine over the deck ensures the living area is shaded during the hot summer months - an essential requirement in a climate where daytime temperatures can rise from 12 degrees in winter to over 40 degrees in summer. That comfortable, indoor temperature is sustained throughout the year by having large, double-glazed timber windows, deep walls and a ceiling lined with R4.0 insulation. The couple describe it as a beautiful, ambient temperature year-round, with a warmth they say they’ve never experienced in a property before.
All electric appliances including energy-efficient LED lighting, an induction cooktop, electric oven and a split-system
air-conditioner are powered by 13.2kW of solar panels and 28kWh of battery storage, while a wood fire and ceiling fans are all that’s needed to provide warmth and a cozy atmosphere during the cooler months. By making some energy-smart choices, they ensure the home achieves a 7.3 NatHERS rating. A newly installed, working windmill pumps water from a dam on the property into a 260,000 litre tank which allows them to irrigate, while rainwater caught from the roof of the house and shed provides the water supply for the home, and there is an environmentally friendly worm farm septic system.
Materials for the build were selected to blend into the landscape and require minimal upkeep, and where possible, they were sourced locally, giving the home a unique signature which cannot be repeated. This includes galvanised steel cladding providing the shearing shed feel, locally sourced cypress on the façade and a polished concrete floor (installed by a local tradesman) which features local granite aggregate from Wooragee itself.
Lachie said keeping in mind they didn’t want to have to update the kitchen in five years, they opted for white tiles and dark cabinetry in a contemporary style that was simple, functional and would be hardwearing for kids, but still had all the storage they needed. The colour palette is natural and earthy, complementing sections of interior pine cladding and the satin-finished and hard-wearing eucalypt floors in the bedroom wing; the timber sourced from a sustainably managed plantation in Yackandandah. >>
“What’s important to us is that it’s sustainable - you don’t need that much space inside - and we don’t miss the space we had in our old house.”
LACHIE MCKEEMAN
Following the birth of their third child, the couple embarked on stage two of the project, adding a master bedroom and ensuite which is now almost complete, and will give the children their own wing as they grow older. Tyla said they were fortunate to be able to obtain just enough of that Yackandandah eucalypt timber to use for the floors in their new extension. But at a total of 120m2 when the extension is finished, Lachie points out the home will still be less than half the size of the average Australian home built today. He said they would rather have quality, well-used family spaces, then to have multiple rooms that are hardly every used.
“What’s important to us is that it’s sustainable - you don’t need that much space inside - and we don’t miss the space we had in our old house,” he said.
“Tim really sold us on the concept and we have him to thank for that - he drove a lot of this and he’s on the right track as far as we’re concerned.”
Lachie said another benefit of working with Tim was that as both the architect and the builder, they were able to work smoothly together without having to consult with a third party. He said thanks to Tim’s careful planning and accurate estimates, they were able to order exactly what they needed and avoid any surprises, including rising materials costs as they built through COVID.
“He was just on top of his game and so professional,” said Lachie.
All up, the couple believes the build has been well worth the effort, saying one of their favourite aspects of the home is how seamlessly it brings together indoor and outdoor living. The modest extension will give the couple some additional privacy and space as the children enter their teens, without impeding on their determination to have a small footprint. Tyla initially wondered how the children would manage living with a little less indoor space, but she says they barely notice it and spend much more time outside as there is always something to do.
Outdoors the couple have created a pond for wildlife, are adding to the 1500 native species they have already planted to further develop habitat for birds - including a resident family of magpies - and are applying principles of permaculture to create garden beds, improve drainage and develop a naturalistic environment which will grow to support biodiversity. Tyla said their advice for others thinking about building a passive and sustainable home, is to go ahead and do it.
“We’re doing our bit for our little piece of paradise to help the animals and the environment - if it helps them, it helps us,” she said.
“Don’t disregard (building sustainably) as being too hard or too expensive because it’s not - it’s well and truly worthwhile and it’s achievable.”
FAMILY FRIENDLY / Lachie Mckeeman said even after a modest extension, the home is still less than half the size of the average Australian newbuild.
CHanGES at PlaY Supporting
Over 20 years, the North East Regional Pre School Association has created a supportive environment for families, students and staff, including Coronation Kindergarten teacher Tan Rashid Nishi, assisting youngster Thomas Evans as he explores his creative side.
CHILD psychologist Jean Piaget once explained that “play is the work of children”, a time when youngsters learn about the world and their place in it, while appearing to be completely at leisure. Vital, then, are the roles filled by people who facilitate and encourage that play - the families, carers and educators of our youngest citizens and future leaders. And any system offering support to that education can only serve to benefit the whole community.
Twenty years ago, just such a system began to form in this region, with the creation of the North East Regional Pre School Association. Prior to the inception of NERPSA, preschools in the Wangaratta district were largely run by parent committees which faced high turnover due to families’ short-term involvement at this level of education. These committees were required to handle everything from payroll and employment to fundraising - taxing responsibilities for volunteers with varying degrees of experience.
It was recognised that change was needed, to release parents from the burden and enable them to enjoy their children’s short stint as preschoolers, and also to make improvements for staff. Discussions began between local kinders and the Rural City of Wangaratta, about the creation of what would eventually become NERPSA. The new group
- initially with manager Cheryl Impink (who brought with her early childhood education experience) as manager, and president Sarah McDonald (then also president of Christopher Robin Kindergarten) leading the way - took on management of aspects such as employment, thus easing the onus on parents, and enabling staff to focus on their prime objective: educating children.
“It was a massive relief; parents could come and be part of their child’s preschool and enjoy it, and could help out in other ways, on excursions or by sharing their skills,” explained Karen Menichelli, who was among those recognised at NERPSA’s 20th anniversary celebrations in mid-2024 for her two-decade involvement with the organisation. “Also, while individual committees were focused on surviving, and on the here and now, it was really helpful having someone who could look to the future and plan a pathway forward.”
NERPSA commenced with six services and 20 staff; it is now an approved provider for 14 services including long day care and integrated kinder services across three local government areas (Rural City of Wangaratta, Indigo Shire and Benalla Rural City), with its 90 permanent staff including those in schoolbased apprenticeship, trainee, full-time, part-time, certificate 3, diploma and early childhood teacher roles. >>
words Simone Kerwin photos Kurt Hickling
CREATIVITY ON SHOW / Allie Evans displays the results of her colourful finger-painting at Moyhu and District Preschool.
FEELING WELCOME / Tan Rashid Nishi (above) said she received great support from the North East Regional Pre School Association throughout her permanent residency visa process. North East Regional Pre School Association service award recipients (right) Lisa Mathewson (five years), Jo-Anna Cope (10 years), Cheryl Lowe (20 years), Leigh Chadban (15 years), Karen Jones (20 years), Karen Menichelli (20 years), Teresa Parsons (20 years) and Marg Ashmead (20 years) were honoured as part of last year’s celebration of the association’s 20 years.
“An organisation that started as a seed has really blossomed,” Karen said.
In addition to teaching staff, NERPSA employs seven parttime and full-time management staff, who are all based in Wangaratta, and is overseen by a board. While the volunteer board originally comprised representatives from each service involved in the association, it is now skills-based, with capacity to welcome community-based members who can bring their own abilities to the table.
Current NERPSA manager Leigh Chadban, who started with the association in 2008 around the time her own children were preschoolers, initially took on an administrative role which evolved into the manager’s position.
“Over time, we have started taking on more and more from the services, allowing the families to just be involved for the children; parents now have no idea that they would once have been required to be the employers of the people teaching their children,” she said.
Leigh said NERPSA’s vision was to focus on the children in its services’ care, as well as supporting staff. Providing access to professional development opportunities is a strong focus and benefit of the arrangement. Each staff member has a professional development plan created in conjunction with NERPSA’s education managers.
The association has also been able to focus on developing relationships with external organisations such as the Department of Education, and on workforce planning. The latter has become more of a focal point amid the changing nature of Victorian preschool education in recent years. The State Government’s move towards extended hours for threeyear-old and four-year-old children, and the planned rollout of a pre-prep program which will eventually see four-year-olds attending 30 hours of preschool per week, will require more preschool educators.
Pre-prep is launching in six Victorian local government areas this year. It will roll out in Benalla Rural City, Rural City of Wangaratta and Wodonga Rural City in 2026, and in Indigo, Alpine and Moira Shires in 2027. By increasing the hours of play-based learning in the year before school, the program aims to boost children’s early literacy, numeracy and self-regulation skills. It is designed to allow teachers and educators to provide deeper and more deliberate play experiences, to give children opportunities to embed their learning.
Implementation of up to 15 hours of three-year-old kinder is also continuing in Victoria until 2029. Leigh said NERPSA had been able to roll out five to 15 hours of kinder for threeyear-olds, depending on the service. Such changes, as well
as the range of different services available within NERPSA, and incentives provided through free TAFE courses and the State Government, have ensured there is wider scope than ever for early childhood teachers based in the district. So the creation of NERPSA two decades ago was well-timed to prepare for the changes in recent years, and the need for more staff.
“Those who have been with NERPSA for 20 years remember when there were just 20 of us, and we could sit around together and talk about the future. We were concerned then about how we could grow and continue, but the additional services and funding have allowed us to navigate that path, both in staffing and infrastructure. Generally, everyone sees the benefits that have come with NERPSA. A couple of staff even say that without NERPSA, they wouldn’t still be in the industry, that it’s prolonged their careers. We are in quite a good position to be able to provide plans and to support staff for changes,” Leigh said.
She said NERPSA educators were a passionate, dedicated group who knew and understood the value of early childhood education. Along with Karen Menichelli, Karen Jones is a 20year NERPSA staff member who leads classes at Moyhu and District Preschool. Both have been involved in early childhood education for more than 30 years, while Tanzila Rashid Nishi
from Wangaratta’s Coronation Kindergarten moved to the region in early 2022. She had previously spent a decade in Melbourne after relocating to Australia from Bangladesh, and switching career plans from architecture to find her calling in early childhood teaching.
Tan said NERPSA’s welcoming approach had been instrumental in encouraging her move to Wangaratta. While she was required as part of her work visa to spend five years in a regional area, she had considered other areas including Geelong and been accepted at interview, before meeting with Leigh Chadban and then-NERPSA education manager Glenys Jackson. It was after that first meeting that Wangaratta won her heart.
“It felt like home after talking to them. I think you need to love the environment you’re working in, and after talking to Leigh and Glenys, I was very determined that my husband and I would move to Wang. They even helped me look for a home before I arrived,” she said.
After working at Coronation Kindergarten for several months, Tan was even more impressed by NERPSA as it supported her through her permanent residency visa process. This required her to return overseas and wait to come back to Australia, and Tan was warned that the green light for her return visa may not come for up to eight months. >>
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY/ Moyhu and District Preschool teacher Karen Jones spends quality time at the playdough table with Beau Jenvey.
“NERPSA said they were happy to wait for me to come back, and wrote a letter saying that I was needed for the role at Coronation. I left in the November (2022) and came back in March (‘23), and it meant a lot that they waited. Once I got the visa, I could have stayed in any regional area, I didn’t have to come back to Wang, but the community had given us so much. We know this community well, and I love it. And I would definitely encourage people to join NERPSA. If you go to them with any issues or problems, they are able to put themselves in the situation and work through them with you,” Tan said.
She said she had enjoyed sampling Australian country life while based in Wangaratta, particularly that unlike her metropolitan experience, “people have time to talk to you”.
“I now have a lawn, I’m into gardening, and there are lots of opportunities to learn things on your own or try things you may not have tried before. There is always something to look forward to, and the people are so welcoming and accepting of different cultures,” she said.
Karen Jones was drawn to early childhood teaching as a teenager, and said it was a “no-brainer” that it would become her vocation: “There are a variety of parts to the job - you work with children and families, deal with administrative tasks, you use your creativity, and are working inside and outside. Children are so different every day, and you never know what’s going to happen. There is always something new, and a lot of problem-solving.”
Karen has seen significant changes both in the industry and in society since she started teaching. From family dynamics - with both parents now working, at least part-time, in most families - to the use of technology, the increasing pace of life, and the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been a range of
changes for children. Karen said play was more important than ever for youngsters.
“Amid busy lives outside kinder, it’s about slowing down to meet the needs of children. Children are more worldly now, but at their heart, they still have an inherent need to play and explore, if given the time and freedom and stimulation,” she said.
“The professional support NERPSA has provided, especially having a lot of office/support staff with early childhood backgrounds, has been great. The individual personality of kinders is valued, and they support us to go in the direction we feel our community needs. The built-in opportunity to network with other kinders has been a real bonus.”
Karen Menichelli agreed: “We are able to share ideas and are not just isolated. We’re able to hear what’s happening at other kinders. Every year, NERPSA organises first aid courses and professional development days, and shares information that has been passed on to them so that kinders in the whole area can benefit.”
Karen said she enjoyed being involved in rural kinders, having also worked at Glenrowan after initially spending time working in Melbourne.
“Rural kinders are a bit smaller, and rural communities are very different. We have families coming from a range of farming backgrounds. Through NERPSA, we’ve been able to survey families about what start times would suit them, as some were struggling coming from Carboor, Cheshunt or Taminick and also fitting in with school drop-off times.”
Karen said preschool teaching was always the vocation for her: “I get a lot of joy from seeing children learn something new or find a new friendship - that’s what keeps me going back.”
SPLASH / Coronation Kindergarten children Summer Jellyman, Oliver Stone and Penny Garraffo enjoy water play with teacher Tan Rashid Nishi.
Boarding Year 7-12
history and heritage in the High Country PRESERVING
When the Mansfield Heritage Museum is complete, it will be a testament to the power of collaboration and a community rallying together to achieve a goal.
IT was a moment 40 years in the making, the official turning of the sod on the Mansfield Heritage Museum in February last year. With construction having begun a couple of months earlier, it was the realistion of a dream born in the years following the closure of the train service to Mansfield. Graeme Stoney OAM, president of the Mansfield Historical Society, looked out over the 200-strong crowd and dignitaries gathered at the station precinct and proclaimed the event a red-letter day after decades of advocacy and fundraising.
Ann Ware, curator for the new museum and member of the Mansfield Historical Society, said the last train service to Mansfield ran on November 8, 1978 and over the next 10 years the railway line was dismantled. She said the railway station sat vacant, and at the time the whole station precinct was considered “a waste of space”. Community action saved the land from private sale, preserving it for community use.
It was the newly formed Mansfield Historical Society who would see the potential of the station, beginning a process of negotiation to utilise the historic building. Indicative of the tenacity and perseverance of the volunteer-run organisation, they would finally gain access to the station in 2006. The building had served a stint as the shire’s information centre until the construction of a new purpose-built facility, when the station lay dormant once again. This time the society’s tenancy application was approved and the group relocated from rooms at the old
library on Ailsa Street, providing a public space for members of the community to visit and research their family histories, which in turn allowed the society to proactively collect their stories, photographs and memorabilia. However, as the collections grew, the society acknowledged it had outgrown the station and thoughts turned to creating a stand-alone museum.
“It was in 2012 and 2013 that we began to consider how seriously we could do something,” Ms Ware said.
“We had secured some of the old railway carriages years earlier that housed some small displays, but during this time we had also amassed an incredible collection which was sitting predominantly in storage and sheds around the shire. In particular, the collection of original newspapers dating from 1864 to today – which serves as an invaluable source of information and knowledge – needed to be housed correctly, serving as in impetus for us to do better.”
The society’s vision was initially modest - a large shed that would be fitted out to house rotating collections which could be re-designed and re-imagined as they went along. However local architect Seb McCormack, along with Guy Taylor from Taylor Engineering, had other ideas. The resulting concept design was grand in scale and ambitious in delivery. Ms Ware said they ended up with “a marvellous design” reminiscent of an historic homestead, just much bigger. She said the Mansfield Shire allocated some federal grant money to the museum concept, and along with $100,000 raised by the society – they were away.>>
words Emma Oliver photos Emma Oliver/Sandra Lee Photography
SIGNIFICANT PROJECT / At left, Mansfield Shire Council mayor Cr Steve Rabie, Mansfield Historical Society president Graeme Stoney OAM and Independent Federal Member for Indi Dr Helen Haines turn the sod on the Mansfield Heritage Museum project. Above, fundraising efforts for the project included the sale of pavers, held by Graeme Stoney and curator for the new museum, Ann Ware.
External construction work on the building is now complete, and with designers recently appointed to begin drawings for the museum exhibits and fit-out, the long-held dream to bring local history to life is that much closer to being realised. It’s no mean feat building a museum - the last five years a tribute to the 40-plus volunteers of the Mansfield Historical Society who have relentlessly lobbied and fundraised, contributing time, energy and individual expertise to the project.
Although one of the main community advocates, the society has by no means operated in isolation. The finished museum will be a testament to the power of collaboration and the many groups who have been involved from the historical society to the Mansfield Shire Council, the Mansfield Cultural Heritage and Arts Centre (MCHAC), Community Bank Mansfield and District, Taungurung Land and Waters Council, the Gadhaba Local Aboriginal Network, Museum Victoria and individual experts in fish fossils and palaeontology.
“The Mansfield Heritage Museum will tell the story of where we have come from, who we are, and where we are going,” said Independent Federal Member for Indi Dr Helen Haines.
“Mansfield has a rich history, and this will offer something to those who have lived in Mansfield all their lives, those who are new to town, and our traditional owners who have been here for tens of thousands of years. Australia’s High Country, and Mansfield within it, has so many stories to tell – the Taungurung people’s first stories, the High Country huts and those who built them, the gold and timber industries and so many more. The enduring persistence of the Mansfield community to pursue this project attests to the value placed in these local stories, the value placed in the culture of this district and the way the community strives to keep it alive.”
It is this commitment that Dr Haines attributes to the success of the project in securing federal funding, adding to the grants and donations received from local people. The community alone raised in excess of $300,000 in just over a year towards the
interior fit-out, with significant donations from residents and ratepayers complemented by the society’s hugely successful paver fundraising campaign. In addition, the society hosted a full calendar of events with every dollar channelled to the new museum.
Graeme Stoney said the campaign was an example of how strong communities like Mansfield, which includes the very active shire council, can pitch in and help themselves. Mansfield Shire mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the museum, which forms part of a bigger Mansfield Station Precinct activation plan, is the most significant cultural project the shire has ever seen.
“This is an excellent example of a truly community-led project, project stakeholders working together for years to bring a museum to Mansfield,” he said.
MCHAC president Dr Will Twycross OAM said with the build now complete they were entering the exciting phase of the project and emphasised its cultural, community and heritage importance. He sees the museum – and the station precinct overall – as an important driver of reconciliation, diversity, community pride and tourism.
“It is also a golden opportunity for whole of community storytelling and the further evolution of our shared sense of belonging,” he said.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the Mansfield Historical Society’s recording of memories and anecdotes, with Ms Ware saying they began to realise the importance of recording spoken histories. The work continues to this day, with recent interviews filmed and edited by cinematographer Ron Ekkel. The project’s focus is recording early life and significant events in the Mansfield Shire, recounted directly by members of the community. Recorded for posterity, these insights into the shire’s past and identity will become an integral part of the Mansfield Heritage Museum when it opens. Most recently, Mr Stoney and local mountain cattleman John Lovick sat down for a chat with legendary Australian film maker Geoff Burrowes to discuss the
STORYTELLING / Above left, Mansfield Museum curator Ann Ware accepts a donation of spurs which belonged to the late Sgt Michael Kennedy, from Joan Tehan. Above right, director of The Man from Snowy River, Geoff Burrowes, returned to discuss the making of the 1982 movie with locals.
making of the 1982 film The Man from Snowy River, in which they and other High Country riders appeared. Filmed in Mansfield, Merrijig and Mt Buller, the movie is credited for putting the shire on the map. It’s just one of numerous stories from yesteryear, alongside gifts and bequests of important heirlooms and family treasures, that expand and build on local knowledge and understanding. Among those items are a leather valise and a pair of spurs which belonged to the late Sgt Michael Kennedy, one of three local policemen ambushed and killed by Ned Kelly and his gang at Stringybark Creek, gifted by Joan Tehan. Also set to take pride of place amongst the Taungurung collection is a boomerang dating back to the late 1800s, gifted by Graham Amore, whose family established and ran the Mansfield Courier until the 1970s.
For Aunty Angela ten Buuren (Franklin) as a representative of the Taungurung Land and Waters Council, it is a great honour to be able to share the history and contemporary culture of the First Peoples on the Mansfield Shire, the Taungurung, in the museum.
“The exhibitions we are developing for the museum will reflect the Taungurung people’s connection to this land from time immemorial,” Aunty Angela said.
“It is a significant opportunity as a Taungurung Elder and member of the Local Aboriginal Network Gadhaba – which translates to ‘together’ – to tell our stories of survival and welcome members of our community into the new museum.”
The boomerang, spurs and valise will feature at the museum with other significant pieces held in the collection and donated over the years, including a jinker from Wappan Station, a coming out gown from the 1880s contributed by the Ritchie family, a ‘Mansfield’ crockery set and an original map collection for each of the parishes within the shire. And currently being assessed for national significance by Museum Victoria are artefacts that date back to the shire’s forestry industries.
The society’s extensive collection is indicative of the area’s rich and diverse history. For though the shire may be known for its stunning scenery, its proximity to the snowfields, a rich
Indigenous culture, the arrival of European settlers and a strong tradition of farming and logging, the region is also increasingly recognised amongst paleontologists as yielding some of Australia’s most important fossils. So significant are these finds from a key interval in Earth’s geological past when large inland waterways submerged much of the Mansfield valley, fossil fish discovered along local waterways like the Broken River, are effectively re-writing history. Fossils discovered in the region will form one of the museum’s more preeminent collections and Professor John Long, a world-renowned paleontologist, believes the exhibition will prove a strong drawcard at the museum as paleo-tourism – a branch of geo-tourism – grows in popularity.
“People are fascinated by the age of the Earth and different life that use to live here,” Professor Long said.
“But what is of greatest interest to fossil enthusiasts is ‘where to go to the see the very best’ examples.”
As local fossils garner increasing international attention, the Mansfield Heritage Museum may well become one of those locations. Dr Michelle Stevenson, head of history and technology at Museums Victoria, has been involved with the project since May 2022 and is helping develop content for exhibition.
“I love anything that helps connect people to history and heritage and there’s nothing quite like seeing the real thing,” she said of the bricks and mortar construction. “To be involved in a small way to help Mansfield locals and visitors alike to be able to connect to objects, stories and people who can share the rich and layered history of this place is really special.”
What this will look like as a finished product with design consultations underway is yet to be confirmed, with a late 2026 opening date anticipated for the museum. But Dr Stevenson said it could involve some very exciting, interactive features. Bringing so many diverse stories together and breathing life into a long-held vision has been a wonderful experience for all involved; a tribute to the many community groups and the power of collaboration.
HEIRLOOMS / Amongst the Mansfield Museum’s Taungurung collection is a boomerang dating to the late 1800s, gifted by Graham Amore (above) with Aunty Angela Ten Buuren and Aunty Bernadette Franklin. The collection will share the history and culture of the First Peoples of Mansfield Shire.
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When girls are booted out of football
In 2024, former North East Media journalist and 2025 Quill awardwinner Hannah Kennelly took an in-depth look at the challenges faced by girls like Phoebe Guppy (pictured) who reach their teens and want to keep playing the sport they love.
PHOTO: Simon Schulter
PHOEBE Guppy keeps her eyes focused, digging her mudsplattered boots into the damp ovals of Mansfield Recreation Reserve. At the trill of the whistle, the 13-year-old springs forward, zigzagging through a line of fluorescent cones while dodging a charging teammate, then booting her Sherrin toward the goals. She turns to high-five her teammates, smiling. Born in a country home where barely an hour passes without mention of football, training at ‘the rec’ has been the most natural part of her routine, she says, since she was six years old.
“I’ve played netball and basketball, but footy has always been my favourite,” she says, drinking water between drills. “I just love every part of it.”
Phoebe plays for the Mansfield Eagles Junior Football Club in regional Victoria’s sweeping High Country and the only girl in the mixed under-14s team. But despite her devotion, 2024 will be her last year in Mansfield’s blue and gold guernsey. According to the AFL’s National Policy Handbook, she explains, players older than 14 are asked to compete in an age group that accords with their gender. For teenage girls living in regional Victoria, that often means finding a new team in an entirely different town - and four years in limbo to continue to play the game they love. To continue to play, Phoebe must brace for a two-hour round trip to Wangaratta - the nearest youth girls’ team.
“I really want to keep playing,” she says softly, then adds: “But yeah, it’s a pretty far way to go for footy.”
By any measure, Aussie Rules is the No.1 sport in Victoria, especially in the state’s rapidly growing regions, where the legacy and the dynamics of the sport - and the local footy club - continue to wind through the community. For some, the club provides the only pathway to professional careers in AFL or AFLW. Across regional
Victoria, there are more than 520 local football clubs - roughly half of the state’s total participation base. Fewer than half of these regional clubs field single-sex teams for girls over the age of 13. According to the AFL, girls now make up one in four Victorian Auskickers. But pathways for regional Victorian girls, once they ‘age out’ of junior football, are limited.
Hannah Berriman has spent the past two years travelling from Bonnie Doon to Shepparton for footy training and games, adding a weekly average of 394 kilometres to her white Toyota Hilux. She occasionally trains with the Bonnie Doon men’s team on weeknights when she cannot make the 80-minute commute to Shepparton. The 18-year-old carpentry apprentice has won back-to-back premierships with the Shepparton Swans girls’ team, a team she has learned to love, but admits the travel can be exhausting.
“All the driving can be a bit intense” she explains. “But when you live regionally, and you’re a girl who loves footy, that’s kinda how it is.”
Across the Hume Highway, at WJ Findlay Oval in Wangaratta, Jess Whitehead is sprinting towards the goalposts, a silver whistle between her fingers. The Wangaratta Rovers under-17s girls’ coach is late to her team’s weekly Thursday training session but arrives in time for handball drills. She greets her team with a smile, but a flicker of irritation crosses her face. Earlier that morning, Jess was told her girls would need to vacate the oval and give up their training slot to make way for the men’s team. They needed to prepare for their Good Friday match, she was told. After voicing her objections, and settling for a shorter, earlier session, Jess was told the team could still train at WJ Findlay.
“Bit of a miscommunication between teams,” she explains. >>
words Hannah Kennelly photos Jason Robins/Simon Schulter/The Age
GAME CHANGER / Hannah Berriman spent two years travelling from Bonnie Doon to Shepparton for footy training and games before a local side was established. The 18-year-old won back-to-back premierships with her Shepparton Swans team. PHOTO: Simon Schluter
“They’ve got their big match coming up, so they take precedence. It’s a genuine mistake … but it’s frustrating, probably shows women’s and girls’ footy still has a fair way to go.”
A third of Jess’ under-17 girls’ team, who play in the AFL North East Border Female Football League, lives outside Wangaratta. The last-minute decision to make way for the men’s team with an earlier time slot has meant that as well as Jess, many are late to training.
“We’ve got heaps of girls that travel for an hour or more to get to Wangaratta for footy training so as a coach, you’ve got to be flexible,” she says.
A young girl races onto the field, shouting a jumble of apologies.
“I’m sorry Jess!” yells Amelie Thompson, 16, who has travelled more than an hour to get to training from Wandiligong, a small gold mining town famous for its auburn autumn foliage and notable AFL lineage. The 16-year-old typically spends between five and seven hours each week driving to training.
“I just love footy, the running, the tackling and the intensity of it is awesome,” she says. “I’m lucky that Dad can drive me to Wangaratta because some girls might not have that.”
Amelie used to play in a junior mixed team for Bright Football Club, a mere eight-minute drive from her family home. When she turned 14, her father Craig applied for dispensation for her to keep playing with the boys. The request was denied. There was, the AFL told them, “an existing female league in the region”.
The nearest female league in Amelie’s age bracket was the Alpine Lions, in Whorouly, a 48-minute drive from Wandiligong. So that’s where Amelie played - until they folded in March 2022. The next feasible option was the Wangaratta Rovers, a 2½-hour round trip from home. Spotify playlists and carpooling with teammates make the winding drives bearable, says Amelie. Occasionally, she uses the time to lodge hours for her learners’
permit. Most often, though, Amelie just sleeps.
“I get home from training after 9.30pm plus I’ve got weekend games, plus regular school so I can get pretty tired.”
But dedication has paid off. Amelie was selected for the Murray Bushrangers Talent League last year – a common recruiting ground for the AFL and AFLW. She now trains with the Bushrangers twice a week (also in Wangaratta) and once a fortnight in Wodonga. For fun, she also still trains with the Rovers when she can. The talent league selection brings her one step closer to wearing a Collingwood guernsey, a long-held dream. “Playing for the Pies would be pretty epic, so I want to do everything possible to achieve that.”
Subheading: Jess-endon, Daisy Pearce and ‘the travel obstacle’: The story of two coaches
Jess grew up playing Auskick and backyard footy in Wangaratta. Her adoration for the game even inspired a nickname.
“My family and friends call me ‘Jess-endon’ because I pretty much know every single thing about the Bombers,” she laughs.
Jess excelled in Wangaratta’s mixed Aussie rules teams, but quit after she turned 13.
“I was too old to play with the boys and my parents didn’t have the capacity to drive me to Melbourne, so I just stopped.”
In 2018, she co-founded the Wangaratta Rovers women’s team with fellow coach Celia Piesse – the first women’s side in the club’s history. Since then, the club has grown to include teams for under 12s, under 14s and under 17s. Jess says while regional footy opportunities for women and girls have grown “tremendously” over the past decade, “the travel obstacle” remains. Longdistance travel is a well-documented consequence of living regionally. Many young people living in the country, regardless of their gender, travel lengthy distances over the weekend to play sport. But travel pressures are “more likely” to impact female footy players, Jess says.
TEAMWORK / Wangaratta Rovers player Amelie Thompson with coach Jessica Whitehead during training in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Jason Robins
“For example, a male footy player growing up in Bright can stay at his home club or travel to neighbouring clubs in Myrtleford or Yackandandah,” she says.
“A female player in Bright has to drive past all of those clubs for over an hour to get to her closest option in Wangaratta. That’s just to attend training, that’s not even including games.”
If Amelie’s story sounds familiar, it’s probably because you read something like it about Daisy Pearce. The AFLW premiership player turned West Coast Eagles coach grew up in Wandiligong, where footy talk fell loosely and naturally across school yards, offices, and family dinners.
“Regional footy clubs are the heartbeat of communities,” Daisy explains.
“Footy was such an important vein … a vital thread that flowed through my family. As a kid, I feel like all my happiest memories revolved around being at the local club, playing footy in the backyard or inside the kitchen.”
Daisy played with Bright Junior Football Club’s mixed teams until she was 14, but was not allowed to play beyond the under 15s team. She admits this “somewhat contributed” to her move to Melbourne.
“My mum was living in Melbourne, so I wanted to be closer to her and my siblings, but part of it was definitely not being able to play footy in Bright any more.”
Daisy said opportunities for girls in footy had improved incredibly over the past two decades, but said regional Victoria was still “a fair way behind” metropolitan Melbourne.
“The travel ... for girls in regional areas isn’t ideal or fair,” she says.
“But if you compare it to what it was like 20 years ago, you didn’t have anywhere to go, let alone travel. But yeah, there’s definitely a lot more room to grow and more barriers to be broken.”
The Age contacted football clubs across regional Victoria and
spoke with a dozen football presidents, coaches and parents as well as past and present female Aussie rules players. All acknowledge the accessibility and availability of girls’ and women’s footy as an ongoing issue, blaming several factors.
Many football presidents highlighted the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on male and female participation numbers for regional leagues. During the pandemic, several women’s and youth girls’ teams folded from 2020 to 2023 in areas like Benalla, Gippsland, Whorouly, Tyrendarra and Echuca. A lack of fierce competition leads young girls to netball instead of footy, Bright Junior Football president Nick Toy says.
“The strength of our junior netball programs attract most of our young female athletes but the major factor [deterring girls from footy] would have to be the lack of a truly local competition which allows girls to regularly train and play without extensive travel,” he says.
AFL Goulburn Murray manager Shaun Connell is responsible for overseeing community football across the region. He acknowledges the 13 to 17 age group as a “key gap”, but said the AFL was committed to reducing the travel barriers around women and girls’ footy in regional Victoria. Shaun says the league is currently working towards decreasing the age bracket for youth girls teams and intends to introduce alternative forms of the game, such as AFL nines, to more communities.
“We are very conscious that we need to build the base of players at a lower age group level to ensure we have age-appropriate competitions as they [girls] continue their journey,” he says.
The AFL’s Women’s Football Vision states the game will strive for equal participation and representation in community football by 2030. Shaun says the ultimate goal is for any regional player, male or female, to access footy within 30 minutes. “Our aim is to make the game accessible ... to continue to form those pathways for girls so that they can keep playing the sport they love.” >>
HOME GAME / A women’s side in the shire means Bonnie Doon’s Hannah Berriman no longer faces an 80-minute commute.
PHOTO: Simon Schluter
Old crossroads, a new team and a second chance. On a warm autumn afternoon at ‘the rec’ in Mansfield, a group of women huddle around the main oval, listening intently to Michael Bretherton, the club’s junior football president and their occasional coach. One woman calls out: “When do we get our guernseys, Mick?”
“They’re coming soon,” he promises. “Definitely in time for our first match.” The women respond with a chorus of whoops and cheers. After nearly six months of campaigning, Mansfield has established a women’s side - the first in the club’s 143-year history. This afternoon is the team’s final training session before the Easter break and their excitement for their inaugural season is palpable. The new team is made up of women over the age of 18, some have just finished high school while others work full-time. Grace Preuss, 32, darts in and out of today’s training session, jogging over to the boundary line to breastfeed her 11-month-old daughter. Grace tried Auskick when she was younger but quit when she realised there were “zero future pathways”. A footy team in Mansfield has given her a second chance.
“It’s great to spend time with other mums while also prioritising fitness,” she says. “It’s been a long time coming.”
A women’s side in the shire means Bonnie Doon’s Hannah Berriman can finally cease her long drives to Shepparton. This cuts her 80-minute commute to 20 for training. The 18-year-old says she’s happy to be back playing in her hometown, but admits her parents were “way more thrilled” than she was.
“It’s a lot less petrol,” she laughs.
Michael Bretherton says the formation of the team is a tribute to the community and AFL Goulburn Murray staff. While the club still doesn’t have the numbers to pursue a youth girls’ side, he hopes one will be created within two years. But the absence of a youth girls’ team means 13-year-old Phoebe Guppy is still at a crossroads. Travel over an hour to access footy in Wangaratta or Shepparton, or stop playing the game she loves. Her mum is willing to get behind the wheel and do what it takes, and Phoebe is grateful.
“I love footy so much. I am not going to let it stop me.”
AFL North East Border (AFLNEB) region said it has seen significant growth over the past six years, with the local North East Border Female Football League now comprised of seven clubs, and it will see the introduction of an U12’s competition in 2025, to complement the current U14’s, U17’s and Open Women’s grades. AFLNEB regional manager Zac Hedin said the introduction of the U12’s now provides a complete pathway for girls to participate in football locally without the need to compete in a male dominated league or competition if they choose not to. He said since 2019, participation in the competition has jumped from 335 participants to over 600 in 2024, highlighting the enthusiasm for the league and the opportunities it provides for local women and girls.
“With seven clubs across the region, and multiple All Girls Auskick Centre options available there are plenty of possibilities close by for women and girls to participate at all levels – with the aim to further expand this in the coming years,” he said.
“As a region, we would expect the league to continue to grow, through strengthening the current clubs within the league and addressing any gaps in the pathway at current clubs as well as exploring opportunities for the introduction of new clubs and teams into the league. We are also seeing strong growth within our local Auskick Programs (up 94 per cent compared to 2019 numbers) with more girls registering either with a local community Auskick Centre or participating through our AFL Delivered All Girls Centres or After School programs. As a signatory to the AFL’s Women & Girls Community Football Charter, we are committed to providing equal opportunities both on and off the field, that includes playing, coaching, umpiring, and leadership roles. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where girls and women can thrive in football, from grassroots to elite levels. The future looks bright for female football in our region.”
COMMITTED / Members of the Mansfield women’s team at training. In 2024, the women’s side made it to the semi-finals. PHOTO: Simon Schluter
AFL IS THE GAME FOR EVERYONE
SERENA SYKES LM
North East Living is delighted to introduce Serena Sykes, the new General Manager of Lancemore Milawa.
We spoke to Serena about the property’s stunning transformation, which saw it acknowledged on the world stage, receiving the 2023 AHEAD Award for Best Hotel Renovation. It is now the ultimate place to have dinner with friends, celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy a romantic escape close to home.
AQHOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AT LANCEMORE MILAWA?
I joined Lancemore Milawa in December 2024 as General Manager, taking the reins of this beautifully reimagined boutique hotel. My role is to oversee daily operations across all departments, ensuring seamless service while curating memorable guest experiences. Ultimately, my focus is on striking a balance between operational excellence and fostering a warm, welcoming environment for both our guests and our dedicated team.
Q TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.
AI have been with the Lancemore Group for over six years, beginning my journey at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill as a waitress while studying law at university. What started as a part-time job soon evolved into a deep passion for hospitality, driven by my love for food, wine and creating extraordinary experiences. Over the years, I’ve worked in various roles spanning restaurant supervision, weddings and events coordination. Each role reinforced the importance of teamwork, attention to detail and putting guests at the heart of everything we do. Stepping into the general manager position at Lancemore Milawa has been incredibly rewarding. My vision was to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests could immerse themselves in the beauty of the King Valley while experiencing refined yet approachable luxury. I have focused on fostering a strong, passionate team that upholds our commitment to excellence, personalisation and genuine hospitality.
AQWHAT IS NEW AT LANCEMORE MILAWA?
Lancemore Milawa has recently undergone a breathtaking transformation, led by the acclaimed design studio The Stella Collective, under the vision of Hana Hakim. The refurbishment harmoniously blends contemporary Mediterranean and Moorish influences with a nostalgic nod to the hotel’s original aesthetic. The interiors embrace rich textures, polished concrete floors, sisal rugs, bespoke teak joinery, and hand-painted Moroccan artworks. A highlight of the property is the exclusive collection of Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly series, making Lancemore Milawa one of the few places in the world to showcase the entire series in a setting so closely tied to Australian history. Our redesign extends to our outdoor spaces, where the Moroccan-inspired courtyard, poolside cabanas, and vineyard-facing terrace provide a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape.
AQWHAT FACILITIES DOES LANCEMORE MILAWA OFFER?
Our 40-room boutique hotel is a harmonious blend of contemporary designed rooms and suites that offer a seamless blend of nature and luxury. There are a range of thoughtfully designed spaces and amenities, catering to both leisure and business travellers. Guests can unwind by the pool, relax in the sauna, or enjoy the tranquil outdoor terrace overlooking our picturesque Merlot vines. Merlot Restaurant & Bar serves breakfast daily and dinner from Monday to Saturday, showcasing the artisan producers of Milawa and the King Valley. Light-filled lounges and well-appointed conferencing facilities provide a sophisticated setting for business meetings, corporate retreats and special occasions. We offer a variety of curated packages, including romantic getaways, weekend retreats, weddings and special celebrations, ensuring the perfect stay whether you’re seeking relaxation, gourmet experiences, or something uniquely tailored.
AQCAN WE COME AND DINE AT MERLOT
RESTAURANT & BAR?
Absolutely! Merlot Restaurant & Bar welcomes both hotel guests and the public to experience a truly refined yet relaxed dining experience. Named after the vineyards it overlooks, Merlot is a celebration of the King Valley’s finest artisanal produce, paired with exceptional wines curated by our Lancemore Group sommelier, Jacquie Lewis. Our menu showcases the region’s best ingredients, thoughtfully crafted into dishes that highlight both tradition and innovation. From fresh Northern Territory barramundi with ginger beurre blanc to locally sourced King Valley eye fillet, each plate tells a story of the High Country’s rich culinary heritage. Guests can indulge in a two-course menu or a three-course menu, featuring seasonal dishes that celebrate the best of local produce. The drinks list extends beyond wine, featuring expertly crafted cocktails from Melbourne’s famed Everleigh bar, spirits from local distilleries, and beers from the best craft breweries in northeast Victoria.
AQCAN YOU HELP ME ORGANISE A SPECIAL EVENT OR CELEBRATION?
Of course! Whether you’re planning a birthday, anniversary, or even a wedding celebration, Lancemore Milawa offers a stunning backdrop and expert event planning to make your occasion truly special. Our property provides multiple venue options, from elegant cocktail soirées on the upper outdoor terrace or ground-level courtyard, in the garden by the vines or intimate seated events in Merlot Restaurant. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to curate a bespoke experience, whether that includes private dining, wine tastings, overnight accommodation or exclusive use of our event spaces.
AQWHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT LIVING AND WORKING IN THE KING VALLEY?
It is a truly special experience. What really sets this region apart is its strong sense of community. The people here are warm, welcoming and deeply passionate about their craft—whether it’s winemaking, farming or showcasing the exceptional local food scene. I’ve particularly enjoyed our involvement with the Milawa Gourmet Region Association, which invites visitors to ‘come, discover, stay, eat, and drink’ in one of Australia’s premier food and wine destinations. Professionally, the King Valley offers a wealth of opportunities, especially in tourism and hospitality. The demand for authentic, high-quality experiences continues to grow, and working in this vibrant region allows me to share its unique charm with visitors.
Enjoy 20% Off at Merlot Restaurant Bar
KOOMBAHLA IN THE King Valley
Sisters Sophie and Grace Darling are the next generation of caretakers at Darling Estate Wines, playing to their strengths and building on the family legacy.
IN the last days of summer, a team is hard at work in the vineyard at Darling Estate Wines, handpicking the last of the gamay before the heat of the late morning sun kicks in. Grace Darling is moving quickly down the row, hefting full buckets of ripe fruit and tipping them into a bin before returning the empties to the pickers to fill up again. She’s working at lightning speed, supported by a pumping soundtrack of eighties hits which she said she needs to push her along and get the job done - the music rising out of the family’s vintage Lamborghini tractor parked at the end of the row. Sophie Darling inspects the fruit still to be picked - the vines abundant with tight bunches of purple fruit - the berries firm, round and flavourful - and she’s pleased with what she sees. It’s still early days, but this year’s vintage is looking good..
The two sisters are standing in the Koombahla vineyard, on a property which their grandfather Guy Darling planted in 1970, establishing the King Valley’s first vines. The pair’s great grandfather, Frederick Darling (Guy’s father) arrived in
Cheshunt in 1919 after his return from serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Frederick grew apples on a property bought by his parents, before purchasing another property on the river to grow tobacco. Guy Darling inherited his father’s passion for the land and after spending time in France, developed a love of wine, particularly Bordeaux varieties. The grapes he grew at Koombahla, including Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon, were initially sold to Brown Brothers in Milawa to be made into award-winning wine by Guy’s friend, John Graham Brown, who was establishing a network of growers to support his own burgeoning business. In 1990, Guy and his son John Darlingfather of Sophie and Grace - started to produce small quantities of wine under the Darling Estate label. As one of the pioneers of the King Valley, Guy was highly regarded and earned a formidable reputation, and when he passed away in 2008, John took over as winemaker at Darling Estate and continued to build on that reputation, before passing the baton on to Sophie just a few years ago. >>
words Anita McPherson photos Kurt Hickling/Erin Hartwig Davis/Propel Digital
WELCOME EDITION / Darling Estate Wines celebrated the opening of their new cellar door and dining space in December 2024.
Sophie, Grace and their four siblings grew up with their mum Amanda and dad John in Beechworth, but with their father working on the Whitfield farm, they often visited, camped on the property and spent time with their grandfather. While they all grew up in and around the winemaking world, it was Grace and Sophie who decided to step into the family business, with support today from their father John and his partner, Kaye. Sophie said their love of wine came from their dad - the family regularly sitting down to eat, drink and talk about the wine, sometimes opening a bottle which had been made by their grandad. Grace returned to the property in 2018 and began working the vineyard, while Sophie - who made her return in time for vintage in 2022 - was more interested in winemaking. Their natural gravitation towards different but complementary aspects of the family business has proved to be fortuitous, and the pair say they work easily together.
“We didn’t know at that point how it was going to unfold, and what it would look like, but we ended up where we wanted to be,” said Sophie.
“Of course there is crossover - we take the approach that
wines are made in the vineyard - so the work there is critical. I’m fortunate I get to be out there with Grace and be part of that, and she gets to come and taste with me - but we’re lucky we ended up in the domains where we are happiest.”
Sophie said her interest in winemaking came from helping out at festivals, being in the cellar door and hearing the positive response to her father’s wines and seeing how the reputation for quality at Darling Estate Wines was growing. A stint at King Valley Wines and a challenging vintage season in Burgundyworking every day for eight weeks straight - convinced her she wasn’t just harbouring a romantic notion.
“I’ve always loved being in the garden and growing things, but I was mostly focussed on growing food and having a really awesome vegetable garden,” she said.
“To now have that ability to nurture something as it grows and take that fruit, turn it into wine and be able to share with people, there’s something really humbling and special about it.
There’s also the thought that Dad has been taking care of it, grandpa before him and now Grace and I get to continue it, so I guess it is romantic, but in the end it’s also a lot of hard work.”
HOME GROWN / Sophie Darling said the siblings take the approach that wines are made in the vineyard, so the work there is critical to the result.
Darling Estate Wines sits on a 333-acre property in Whitfield, with about 60 acres under vine. The Koombahla vineyard was named by Guy Darling after a magnificent brittle gum that stands at the top of the property overlooking the vines belowKoombahla believed to be an Indigenous word for gum tree. At over 42 metres high, the brittle gum has grown to about double the average size of the species (Eucalyptus mannifera) and it is listed as a tree of significance with the National Trust. The vineyard is surrounded by hills which can be snow-covered during winter, and after long summer days, breezes drift down in the evening and keep the vineyard and the ripening grapes cool, which the Darlings’ say helps produce fruit with intense colours and flavours.
While around 17 different grape varieties are grown on the property, the wines they make under their own label include gewurztraminer, aligoté, chardonnay, the Italian variety garganega, pinot blanc and riesling, and they recently grafted over to some chenin blanc. Red wine varieties include gamay - a lighter bodied Beaujolais variety which is a Darling speciality - along with popular Italian varieties sangiovese
and nebbiolo, and Bordeaux favourites including cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot. Each may be made as a straight variety, or used in a red blend, which has proved popular with their loyal customers. Sophie said making chenin blanc is a new project she and Grace have embarked on together, only recently finding out it had been one of her grandfather’s favourites. The pair continues to focus on French varieties as their father and grandfather did, making Darling Estate somewhat unique among wineries in the King Valley, while also including a couple of well-loved Italian staples. It was Grace’s idea to make a Rosé using petit verdot, and with its beautiful floral and violet aromas along with its good structure and acidity, they haven’t looked back since the first vintage in 2021. While Sophie is now chief winemaker, her dad is always there to provide assistance and to support his daughters both in the winery and in the vineyard.
“That’s one of the really amazing things for me and Grace - there’s a bit of weight to the idea of legacy and what has come before us - but we’re so fortunate to have that wealth of knowledge to build on,” she said. >>
SOCIAL SPACE / Sophie and Grace Darling (pictured above right in front of the brittle gum tree for which the Koombahla vineyard is named) say they are thrilled with the response to their new cellar door and its menu, and proud to be making a meaningful contribution to King Valley hospitality.
And build on they certainly have, with Darling Estate opening a brand new cellar door in December 2024, which was about three years in the making. Sophie said the family were thrilled to receive support from the state government for the project through its Regional Tourism Investment Fund, which injected $170,000 into the development. The brainchild of Grace and John Darling, the striking, contemporary cellar door is located on the former bull paddock and incorporates timbers and corrugated iron from the property’s heritage shearing shed, in what is a fitting tribute to the 100–year history of the Darling family in the King Valley. Sophie said while they had enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere running the cellar door out of the garden in front of the family home, they were now weather-proof and able to welcome more people.
“We’re taking the same relaxed vibe people loved in the garden into this beautiful space,” she said.
“The really cool thing is we get a lot of local people who come to sit and eat and share with friends - it’s not just about wine tasting, it’s about being in a place where you can hang out and have a good time.”
While their traditional wine varieties continue to attract a loyal following, Sophie and Grace are enjoying introducing people to their signature gamay and aligoté. The gamay is a lighter to medium bodied red (similar to a pinot noir) which the family has been growing since 1998, while the first vintage of aligoté was
produced in 2017 - fermented and aged entirely in old French barriques. Darling Estate is one of only four vineyards to grow aligoté in Australia, and Sophie describes the variety (related to Chardonnay) as being a little more delicate and made to enjoy, with orchard fruits like pear and nashi.
“Where aligoté is right now, it has such potential - people are starting to get excited about it,” she said.
“We have the biggest planting in Australia, and the majority of aligotés made in Australia come from our vineyard. It’s so exciting sharing something that’s new with people and being part of that story.”
The new cellar door is now open Friday through until Monday and offers a menu of share-style dishes designed and created by Kaye. Sophie said she loves seeing locals and visitors come and enjoy it, settling in with family or groups of friends to laugh, talk and soak up the views across the vineyard and all the way to Mount Cobbler. She said the family is proud to have created a new attraction for people to visit in the King Valley.
“We’ve never done it before, and the reception to the food has really blown me away,” she said.
“The King Valley has become known for its hospitality, and to now be part of that in a more meaningful way is really special. Building this place as part of the community here is really meaningful for Grace and me.”
INNOVATION / Along with their traditional wine varieties, Sophie and Grace Darling are enjoying introducing people to their gamay and aligoté.
“..there’s a bit of weight to the idea of legacy and what has come before us - but we’re so fortunate to have that wealth of knowledge to build on,”
- Sophie Darling
Striving for excellence at Ava
Wangaratta siblings Monique and Paul Szeligiewicz have created a destination dining venue in Ava, at the crossroads in Milawa.
THERE is an understated elegance about Ava. Sheer, whitecurtained windows give little away about what’s inside, but from the moment you are greeted with a smile at the door, guided to your table and a warm plate of heavenly, house-made foccacia and golden, fruity local olive oil arrives, you know a very special dining experience is about to begin.
Ava, located on the crossroads at Milawa, was created by brother and sister team Paul and Monique Szeligiewicz who completed a thoughtful renovation of the building before opening in December 2023, adding clean, contemporary fittings and ambient lighting which enhance the building’s exposed brick, character charm. Their plan was to create a place that blended exceptional, high-quality food with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, catering to both locals and visitors, with talented chef Paul leading the kitchen team.
“We recognised a unique opportunity to bring a casual fine dining experience to the heart of Milawa, filling a gap in the region’s dining scene,” explains Monique.
“As a brother-and-sister duo, we’ve always dreamed of opening a space that not only elevates the standard of dining in the area but also offers something fresh and unique for our guests to enjoy.”
Monique said Ava was born out of a deep passion for creating a space where people would feel comfortable while experiencing the finest food and wine the region has to offer. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere where couples can share an intimate meal, families can celebrate a special event together, and friends can meet, talk and laugh, creating lasting memories.
While enjoying lunch one Sunday, we experienced just that vibe - our host warm, friendly and effortlessly efficient giving us time to peruse the menu and extensive wine list, at tables spaced in a way that give you enough room to enjoy a good conversation without impacting the comfort of others. The menu enticed us to share, with a broad selection of appetisers on this day, including freshly opened oysters, fried squid with native lime and curry sauce, a brioche prawn roll with herbed emulsion and turkish lamb manti with yoghurt, sumac, tomato and coriander, and many more. There were also some daily specials, and while we were tempted by the seasonal taco or to snack on some fried chicken ribs, we instead opted for tightly rolled tuna nori, and king fish with jalapeno, coconut, finger lime and kaffir, dotted with roasted corn - the combination of textures and intriguing flavours proving to be sublime. >>
words Anita McPherson photos Kurt Hickling
MODERN STYLE / Prawn and scallop tortellini laksa has become a signature dish at Ava, having evolved since it was first introduced.
Paul’s enthusiasm for cuisine began at an early age, having grown up in a family of five in Wangaratta with his three brothers and one sister. He says helping his mother in the kitchen sparked a love for cooking, and the joy of seeing others enjoy the meals he prepared became a major source of inspiration.
“Cooking for his family, especially his baby girls, holds a special place in his heart, as they play a significant role in his life,” explains Monique.
“When he’s not in the kitchen at Ava, Paul enjoys preparing family-style meals-grilled meats, fresh salads, and simple yet flavourful dishes meant to be shared with loved ones.”
Paul obviously commits considerable time and effort to creating his menu, with starters that may include quail with sorghum, corn, walnuts and local black garlic, a heady combination of beetroot, seeded granola, ricotta and balsamic, and beautifully balanced salmon with seaweed, ocean crackle, cucumber, creamy horseradish and fruity pops of native lime. Middle dishes might range from a market steak (today from a whole scotch fillet, 21-day dry aged to perfection on site), lamb shoulder adorned with minted cream, olive, pea and garlic chives, or succulent wagyu neck, but there is also a fish of the dayperhaps a Humpty Doo-farmed barramundi - or a flavour-packed native cauliflower curry. Paul said he approaches his dishes by focusing on three to four core ingredients, typically seasonal, in different elements that complement each other perfectly.
“I like to ensure these ingredients remain the star of the dish, that they work harmoniously without being overshadowed by other elements or textures,” he said.
“My goal is to create a satisfying and balanced experience for the diner, presented with elegance and clean plating.”
That attention to detail comes through in the signature prawn and scallop tortellini nestled in laksa, with samphire, roe and red shiso, presented like precious jewels sitting proudly in spectacular, round stone bowls. The parcels are generously filled with the ocean-fresh, textural seafood and are topped with a plump prawn, the pasta perfectly al dente, the laksa complex and satisfying with moreish flavours that demand every spoonful be devoured.
There is a good selection of mostly local wines available by the glass, coming from the likes of King Valley, Beechworth and Rutherglen, and a really interesting selection by the bottle, including some lesser known, special gems, focussing on all Australian and New Zealand wines. Beer drinkers are also catered for with both familiar and specialty craft brews, while it’s a cocktail lovers paradise, with a dazzling choice of heady concoctions - the charred pineapple mojito and (alcohol-free) pino colada, appearing to be a particularly popular choice among the Sunday lunch crowd.
Side dishes are treated with just as much care as central plates and designed to trigger the taste buds, whether they
CRISP ELEGANCE / The plan was to create a welcoming place in Milawa which blended exceptional food with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
be duck fat kipfler potatoes, corn ribs with manchego, spiced honey carrots or broccolini with white bean hummus, while pristine salad leaves are anointed with a tangy vinaigrette. To finish, diners can choose something which leans toward sweet but will never stray too far, illustrating Paul’s understanding of balance right across the menu. It might be an artful combination of chocolate, malt and marshmallow, or elderflower cremeux with strawberries and pistachio, or zingy iced raspberries holding aloft crispy discs of burnished pastry, with a touch of miso salted caramel and some hazelnut diplomat.
There are ingredients which Paul obviously enjoys working with, and they pop up happily here and there, including native finger lime (often referred to as “bush caviar”) with its delicate, citrusy pearls delivering a burst of vibrant flavour. Paul also selects premium cuts of meat for dry ageing in-house, and the highest-quality seafood available, ensuring each dish is rich and balanced in both flavour and texture. He is passionate about sourcing local ingredients where possible and has curated a list of regular suppliers, many of whom are known for their specialty produce. Favourites include gourmet mushrooms like oyster and lion’s mane from Markwood Mushrooms, salmon roe from Harrietville Stony Creek Fish Farm, black garlic from Cottonwoods, mustards from Milawa Mustards, and seasonal produce from Murmungee Basin Produce, among others. Paul said these local ingredients are essential for creating unique
dishes which showcase the region’s produce, but it’s also about supporting local growers and makers. It’s not surprising the prawn and scallop tortellini laksa has become a signature dish, Monique saying it has evolved over time since it was first introduced.
“In our view, it perfectly embodies the essence of modern Australian cuisine-bringing together diverse cultural influences to create a unified culinary experience,” she said.
“We update our menu seasonally, drawing inspiration from the freshest ingredients available, guided by our local suppliers and producers. This ensures our dishes remain reflective of the season and showcase the best of what the region has to offer.”
The restaurant may have only be open for 16 months, but it is attracting rave reviews from the diners who discover it during their travels along the Snow Road, as well as locals who appreciate having a venue of this calibre in their midst.
“We are truly appreciative of every guest who chooses to dine with us at Ava, and we are immensely grateful for their ongoing support since our opening,” said Monique.
“We recognise that dining out is a meaningful investment, and it is our top priority to ensure that every guest leaves not only satisfied but also confident their experience offered both exceptional quality and great value. Our goal is to continually improve and provide the best possible dining experience, consistently exceeding our guests’ expectations.”
CONTEMPORARY FLAIR / Ava’s menu features modern Australian cuisine with a range of dishes including (from left) kingfish, jalapeno, coconut, kaffir and corn; elderflower cremeux, strawberries, pistachio and lemongrass; quail, sorghum, corn and walnut, black garlic, jus and sorrel.
Sharing a love OF HOME
Paula Harrington and her family help showcase Whorouly by welcoming visitors keen to experience the rural lifestyle.
IT’S because of their gratitude and passion for their lifestyle in rural Whorouly that Greg and Paula Harrington are so keen to share it with others. And thanks to a suggestion made by daughter Rikki-Lee when a cottage on the long-held Harrington property became available, they have found the perfect way to showcase their beloved district to visitors: as Airbnb hosts.
The Harringtons are a hard-working family with a range of interests. Greg, who is a third-generation Harrington living in the family homestead, works for Plantation Harvesting in nearby Myrtleford. Paula has been a nurse at Northeast Health Wangaratta for the past 10 years. Rikki-Lee, 31, is soon to return from Alice Springs with her qualification as an occupational therapist. And son James, 28, is a diesel mechanic who runs the property adjoining the traditional Harrington home.
“Several years ago, when my mother-in-law was unwell and had to go into care, we had the cottage in front of the homestead sitting there, and didn’t know what to do with it. My daughter suggested it would be perfect for a country-stay property. So we decked it out with a lot of pieces created by my dad Barney, who was a timber craftsman, and offered it as a B&B. That has just boomed, especially among city people who love spending time in the country,” Paula said.
“We are so fortunate to have what we’ve got here, it’s an amazing place to live, and bringing new people to the area has highlighted that for us further. It’s a great little community where everybody supports and helps each other.
“We have the Ovens River running through the back of the family property, and guests love to venture down to a spot by the river to swim or drop a line. They really enjoy the serenity of being away from the city, and even just the chance to look up at the stars. We’re central to Myrtleford, Bright, King Valley and Beechworth, and are part of the Milawa Gourmet Region, so people can base themselves here and do day trips. They also like the experience of farm life; we graze 50 cows and calves on our property, and for us it’s work, but for visitors it’s often an eye-opener. Greg loves talking to people and telling them about the area, so it works well.
“Years ago, the property was a tobacco farm before the industry ceased operation, and Greg’s dad changed to cattle, so this is another diversification; the property has gone from tobacco to cattle to a B&B. It’s a lovely property with lots of big, old gums, and is especially beautiful in spring and autumn. In spring, everything comes to life, and I’ve always loved that time of year, but autumn over recent years has been spectacular with all the colour around the place.” >>
words Simone Kerwin photos Kurt Hickling
COUNTRY HOSPITALITY / The Old Post Office at Rivington offers a perfect base either for a relaxed stay, or to explore the region.
Nestled in between the Great Alpine Road and Snow Road, Elmwood Cottage caters for four guests, with two bedrooms and a bathroom in a building set in tranquil surrounds. The quiet, private spot along the river is a perfect place to soak up the serene atmosphere of the property.
Following the popularity of the B&B next to the homestead, the Harringtons purchased the former Whorouly Post Office to create another accommodation option in the township. Paula said the two properties were now among quite a few B&B options in Whorouly.
“We wanted to graze some more cattle, and this property was adjoining our son’s property, so when it came up and it had a home on it as well, we thought it would be a lovely old place to offer as a B&B. We didn’t need to do a lot of work to the post office building, as it has character in itself. It was built in 1883 as the original post office for Whorouly, and still has a lot of the old features. It’s set in beautiful surroundings, with an on-site orchard, and guests can also see a lot of farm work happening from the home,” Paula said.
With lots of space, including an open-plan living area and a big kitchen, The Old Post Office at Rivington caters for six guests, with three bedrooms, and a bathroom including a hot tub. Guests are also invited to pick their own in-season goods, including lemons, oranges, cherries, mandarins, walnuts and chestnuts.
Paula said Rikki-Lee’s idea was to offer the building as a place for large family gatherings.
“It’s a real place to bring people together. There are stunning views of Mount Buffalo and visitors can watch cattle graze while relaxing and enjoying the picturesque gardens, perhaps around the fire pit,” Paula said.
Paula said family members had quickly taken to their new roles as AirB&B hosts, and were enjoying the chance to showcase the region in which they were born and bred.
“Two properties would be a lot of work for one person, but we all work together and that’s been an important part of it. James and his wife Rachael have two boys, Isaac (4) and Zane (2), and this is the future for them as well, because they love being brought up in this lifestyle as well,” she said.
“Whorouly is a community that takes a lot of pride in its surroundings, and our little town offers a lot. Through looking at things like B&Bs, we are trying to give the area a new future, and give new life to the properties. City people have no idea what it’s like in the country unless they can get out and spend time here, so this offers them a chance to do that. We get a lot of bookings especially in school holidays, when kids love seeing the horses and perhaps watching calves being hand-reared, if they’re there at the right time of the year. They can come up to the country for a few days and sample the lifestyle we love so much.”
RUSTIC / The wood craft of Paula Harrington’s father, Barney, is on display at Elmwood Cottage, which caters for up to four guests, set in private and tranquil surrounds.
"We are so fortunate to have what we've got here, it's an amazing place to live, and bringing new people to the area has highlighted that for us further.
- PAULA HARRINGTON
WINE & CELLAR DOOR
WINE & CELLAR DOOR
Olive Hills is a family-owned boutique winery situated on a beautiful 1886 historic property in Rutherglen wine region. A strong focus on sustainable vineyard techniques, dry land vines and picking and minimal intervention winemaking results in exquisite wines with intense fruit flavour and structure that tells a story of each unique growing season. The Perry family invite you to explore the rustic elegance of Olive Hills Estate.
Olive Hills is a family-owned boutique winery situated on a beautiful 1886 historic property in Rutherglen wine region. A strong focus on sustainable vineyard techniques, dry land vines and picking and minimal intervention winemaking results in exquisite wines with intense fruit flavour and structure that tells a story of each unique growing season. The Perry family invite you to explore the rustic elegance of Olive Hills Estate.
WEDDINGS
WEDDINGS & FUNCTIONS
& FUNCTIONS
This unique property is ideal for couples who want their wedding in a setting of natural beauty, history, rustic elegance and freedom to create your dream wedding.
This unique property is ideal for couples who want their wedding in a setting of natural beauty, history, rustic elegance and freedom to create your dream wedding.
The historic homestead and winery is surrounded by beautiful Australian gums, historic trees, 40 acres of vineyards and farmland that provides picturesque views, sunsets, privacy and unique photo opportunities.
The historic homestead and winery is surrounded by beautiful Australian gums, historic trees, 40 acres of vineyards and farmland that provides picturesque views, sunsets, privacy and unique photo opportunities.
With a capacity to seat 150 guests in the winery, space for music and dancing, Olive Hills Estate offers you the flexibility to create an intimate and memorable venue that you and your guests will enjoy and remember.
With a capacity to seat 150 guests in the winery, space for music and dancing, Olive Hills Estate offers you the flexibility to create an intimate and memorable venue that you and your guests will enjoy and remember.
Li fe IS WHAT YOU ba ke IT
Beechworth Bakery has been thriving for four decades and the family-run business continues to focus on innovation, excellence, supporting its staff and being an integral part of the local community.
words
FOR Marty Matassoni, taking on an apprenticeship as a baker and pastry cook as a 16-year-old set him on a rewarding path of self-discovery which became a lifetime journey. The now dedicated businessman, who is still sometimes hands-on in the bakehouse, became a leader, co-owner and managing director of Beechworth Bakery. Marty’s parents had owned a shoe shop opposite the bakery, but it was discovering a passion for baking when working there after school at the age of 13, that inspired his career. He left the local high school at the end of year 10 to learn the trade.
Steeped in the town’s rich history, the bakery’s premise was originally built as a single-story building in the mid-1800s with a second story added around 1900 - at that time home to a shoe shop, dining room and pastry shop. Further expansions
and extensions took place after Beechworth Bakery founder Tom O’Toole, with his wife and business partner Christine, bought the building and began his bakery business in 1984. Marty finished his apprenticeship and with overseas travel beckoning, hung up his baker’s hat to explore the world. A supportive Tom asked him to return in 2001 which he did - also taking up a share offered in the business. Marty became the managing director five years later and played a pivotal role in starting up the second bakery in the town of Echuca, where he lived for just over three years.
“From there, I moved back home to the North East and started opening up a few more bakeries - Albury, Bendigo, Ballarat and Healesville. In the last 10 years, we’ve opened in Yackandandah and Bright as well,” said Marty. >>
PROUD / Beechworth Bakery owners (left) Marty and Jo Matassoni, with founders Christine and Tom O’Toole, came together to celebrate 40 years of the well-known local business during a special event and street party held in Beechworth in October, 2024.
Helping to run the bakery for close to 25 years, Marty has also been driving its success, continuing to uphold the legacy of excellent food and service. Staff numbers have grown to 300 across the eight bakeries since Tom (now retired) handed over leadership to Marty. Tom had started the business in Beechworth with just six team members. Marty’s wife and business partner Jo has been part of the bakery for around 20 years and is Beechworth Bakery’s manager, also overseeing four other bakeries. She is a big part of the operations, strategy and every day running of the business.
Beechworth Bakery celebrated a fabulous four decades in October 2024, holding a vibrant street party. More than 5000 visitors including long-time customers from around the region and beyond, and as far as Toowoomba in Queensland, flocked to Beechworth for the event. Among them were staff from all the bakeries, former employees and supplier representatives who have been part of the bakery’s journey as well. For Marty the business is exciting, remains young and is still growing, with even greater potential.
“Tom and I love what we do. We love regional Victoria, our communities, and we love investing back into those communities,” he said.
PARTY TIME / More than 5000 people gathered for a street party in celebration of the Beechworth Bakery’s milestone, entertained by larger-than-life bakers.
With the bakery’s future in mind, Marty thinks COVID-19 was a real turning point for regional Victoria. He said Beechworth and other local towns have been placed in a strong position –both for business and the community – due to an increase in domestic travel and tourist visitation.
“We’ve changed a lot of things for the better, and we’re in a really good position to keep growing our presence and what we do, and we have a succession plan in place to continue the bakery’s legacy. We’re looking forward to another 40 years,” he said.
“Our vision is to be Australia’s greatest bakery, located in regional tourist destination towns with products made by our people, in our bakeries. We are a family-owned business and not a franchise.”
Employment opportunities cater to people of any age willing to learn the ropes and there are many success stories, such as seeing young people behind the shop counter or who have worked in the bakehouse, embark on other careers, then return to the bakery. Among some long-term team members to have taken up career opportunities is Marty’s general manager who has worked with him for 15 years. Then there is a baker with the business for more than 17 years who has gone from
shop front, apprentice baker to production manager. Many other operations staff members have worked at the bakery for decades. Marty said with his support, staff are eager take on more roles and responsibilities and climb the career ladder, as they see a future for themselves.
“Hospitality and bakeries are hard work but they’re really rewarding and fun and people can travel the world if they choose to be a baker and pastry cook,” he said.
The family-owned business run by Tom and Christine and Marty and Jo, makes all its products in-house across its stores, and it remains focussed on innovation, creating new products, excellence in customer service and being part of the community. Marty said one of the business’s main challenges is remaining relevant with its products, while he believes it is crucial to keep investing in the business, its people and its recipes.
“We have a cool line of products, among them our Ned Kelly pies, as well as our traditional bee stings and vanilla slices. We have our favourites, plain pies and sausage rolls, with some of those staples never changing, and people keep going back to the favourites or our signature products,” said Marty.
“In the last three years we’ve sponsored three families from
Sri Lanka with some of their family members joining our teams in the business network. Their families have become a big part of our community. We even have a Sri Lankan curry pie now and it’s a ripper - using traditional Sri Lankan spices.”
When it comes to hiring the right staff, Marty said investing in people and ideas has been key, from holding training courses, to scouting local competition to explore global bakery trends.
“Beechworth Bakery plays a big part in the community by giving back. In turn, the bakery is being looked after by locals in quiet times, which keeps us thriving. We’re an honest business, reliable and they can depend on us,” he said.
“We’re so lucky in the North East having Beechworth, Yackandandah and Bright with their historic buildings and streetscapes - we need to keep our towns looking good. There’s nothing else like this in in Australia where you can go to the snow, be close to the water and there’s many great food options around us. We love inviting people to Beechworth. It’s not just about the bakery – there are so many other businesses playing a big part in why people want to come to Beechworth. It’s such an awesome little town. The more businesses are promoting Beechworth and regional Victoria, the better position we’re in.”
FUTURE PROOF / Jo and Marty Matassoni say the family-owned business continues to make all its products in-house across all its stores.
Brewing beef success in the Tallangatta Valley
The Brewer family are riding out the tough seasons and continuing to build on their herd of Simmental, Angus and specialty SimAngus cattle.
WORKING and living together as a family of four can be a daunting proposal for some, but it’s something the Brewer family at BrewerBeef in the Tallangatta Valley have seemingly mastered. David and Tara Brewer along with sons Austin (18) and Henry (16) have been operating out of the Tallangatta Valley for around 12 years as Brewer Beef, owning 100 acres along the valley and in Koetong and Berringama.
Cattle farms in the North East have experienced tough seasons in the past three years from extremely wet winters to long droughts, but it’s hard to tell when you see the stud’s 900 head of Simmental, Angus and SimAngus females. In the tenth annual sale held at the farm in February, the stud’s feature SimAngus cross bulls turned heads among a strong crowd of interested buyers, going for an average $8200/ head, compared to their Angus ($6275) and Black Simmentals ($6450). Tara said the family was very happy with the way it went, with prices slightly up on last year and one of their higher averages recorded.
“That’s happened the last two years now where we’ve had a fair draft of SimAngus bulls - obviously we’re targeting the right market,” she said.
“The bulls were probably the best draft we’ve ever presented, even though it’s been so dry, they came up really well and we’re getting better at that prep. We’re getting more
and more of a clientele every year. Last year we had 14 new buyers, this year we had 12 and that’s what we gauge it on, return buyers and attracting new buyers every year.”
How the now feature SimAngus crossbreed came about at the stud was in large part inspired by the observant eyes of Henry a few years back.
“Off the cuff one day he said ‘I think we should buy some Angus cows - I think there will be a gap in the market in a few years’,” Tara said.
“In this immediate locality it is a hard place to sell Angus bulls because of all the big studs around us, but in the local area the stud people are getting older and there’s not that next generation coming through. Amazingly he (Henry) identified that gap, so we bought 120 Angus cows and started up our Angus stud alongside our Black Simmentals. Three years down the track, our SimAngus cross bulls are going gangbusters.”
David and Tara have more than 30 years experience as a pair in the cattle industry, starting near Wodonga before moving to Koetong and then the Tallangatta Valley as they raised Henry and Austin and brought them into the business. While Henry continues his schooling, Austin is currently on a gap year at the farm after graduating school last year and has a keen interest in the farming and machinery aspects of the business. Tara said it was extremely rewarding to be working with the boys as they grow up. >>
words Bailey Zimmermann photos Brewer Beef
FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH / Henry, Austin, Tara and David Brewer are working together to grow their family business.
“For them to have the peace of mind that the farm will always be here to come back to if they so desire is really important to me,” she said.
“We don’t put pressure on them to stay connected with it. I think it’s really important to go out there and do things off your own accord, but at the moment it’s great they’re really involved.”
Ever since their move to the Tallangatta Valley the family business has been focused on building up its herd, which Tara said had finally reached the level where the family can put a further focus on genetical traits.
“We like to use homebred bulls so we know they will run to the conditions, and we’ll start putting some artificial insemination (AI) bulls in now we’ve got the cow herd rocking along,” she said.
“We don’t focus on one trait; we focus on multiple traits, so our cattle are well rounded, and they perform in every area.”
The stud farm put two pens of its SimAngus steers in the Beef Spectacular Trial in January this year and did something no one had ever achieved in the 16-year competition. One of BrewerBeef’s pens accumulated a perfect score of 350 points, the first perfect score in competition history, and was named the champion feedlot performance pen. They were also crowned the fifth overall stud farm - an exciting achievementbut one Tara said the family would aim to build on this season.
“Our cattle were a little bit leaner going in this year, so we didn’t quite get that top echelon for fat cover to put us into the top three. We just had such a bad season, so we were a bit behind the eight-ball fat-wise,” she said.
“But their growth rates, and everything going into the feedlot, was bang on.”
Living in and around the area for around 18 years, Tara said the valley has been a perfect place for the business to thrive and also raise a family.
“It’s beautiful, lovely, green and lush so we can produce a lot of kilos of beef off it,” she said.
In their time located in the Tallangatta Valley, David and Tara have also done their best to make a positive impact among the community of around 200 people. Tara said they have just recently reinstated a Tallangatta Valley Town Hall committee for the first time in around 10 years and were eager to have a place where the small town can gather for social occasions, as well as in time of need.
“During the fires it highlighted the fact we were a little disjointed because that hall wasn’t available to gather at - we don’t have that central focal point in the valley,” she said.
“We’ll get the hall all fixed up and start having some monthly barbeques, or activities at the hall. We love our community… It’s changed quite a bit, there’s been a few properties sold and a few different people moved in. It’s important to get around everybody and ensure everyone is looked after for the next disaster.”
While it’s hard to believe from their recent draft of bulls, but the Brewers and many cattle farms in the North East have experienced tough seasons in the past three years for wideranging reasons. An extremely dry winter added a sour note, while the past two winters have been noticeably wet. Tara said the farm was optimistic about a good autumn break this year.
“We’re finally at the stage where we can breed to our breeding objectives - we’ve spent a good 12 years building our herd,” she said.
“Now we can finesse that, using the bulls we can bring in.”
ON TRACK / Henry, David, Austin and Tara Brewer have spent 12 years building the herd and are now focussing on their breeding objectives.
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Fair play on the fairway
Pro golfer and Olympian Marcus Fraser may have travelled the world but he never loses touch with his Corowa connections.
PHOTO: Mike Casper/Shutterstock.com
words Steve Kelly photos Mike Casper/Shutterstock.com/Corowa Golf Club
THERE’S no fairway pro golfer Marcus Fraser loves to play more in the world than in his hometown of Corowa, in the company of his Dad and good friends, sharing memories and a laugh. The born-and-bred Corowa boy has strong ties to the community as his parents still live there, and the annual Ambrose event at the Corowa Golf Club, named in his honour, has been going from strength to strength, with its 12th instalment this year.
The Marcus Fraser Ambrose is a weekend-long golfing extravaganza that lures the club golfing fraternity of all levels from across Australia - one that’s grown from its humble beginnings welcoming 22 groups, to well over 60 when it was last held in March. It was a good friend of Marcus’, Shaun Whitechurch - a former deputy mayor of Federation Council – who came up with the idea to host an Ambrose format tournament and asked Marcus if he would put his name to it. The event recognises the achievements of the highly successful sportsman, who won seven international tournaments and represented Australia at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
“It started off as a Sunday afternoon Ambrose and all the members and a few visitors jumped onboard early, so we decided to make it a two-day event. It quickly grew to adding a sports night, and Friday night events with different activities. It has just
become bigger and bigger and generated quite a bit of money for the club,” Marcus said.
“Getting the members behind the event created the platform to grow the gathering and now most entrants are from other clubs across the country who descend on the Murray River town each year, proving a major economic boost for local accommodation, retail and hospitality businesses over the weekend. Every cent goes back into the club and Shaun does an amazing, unpaid job - without his energy it wouldn’t be what it is today. Some of us put in some money to get the event going, and different members, along with the club, have chipped in to get sportspeople there to speak at the sports night.”
The organising committee experimented with staging the event in January but realised after a scorching summer of 40plus degree heat, the best time to hold it was the first weekend in March.
“It became pretty toasty out on the golf course, but now we’re quite settled and it’s a good date, with low to mid-30s,” Marcus said.
The Corowa golf course has familiar golfers conscious of its narrow fairways, especially on holes 10 to 18, and Marcus advised that it can be a challenge to keep it on the fairways - and they are not overly large greens. >>
TOURNAMENT SUCCESS / Marcus Fraser (left and above) after winning the inaugural Maybank Championship in Malaysia in 2016.
“It’s a typical Murray River golf course, in great condition, and I was up there a couple of weeks before the Ambrose and it was probably the best I’ve seen it. Some of the money from the event goes back into the course to keep it in such good condition, and everyone’s pretty proud of the place. It’s a good, fun golf course to play,” he said.
The course is 72-par from the old bottom 18, and 73 from 1 to 18. In his younger years when he could recite the lays of the green in his sleep, Marcus scored a 60, but years away on the pro tour sees him a tad scratchy on his local turf when he returns for a round with a couple of good mates and his Dad.
“That’s the cool thing for me, to play a round with Dad. It’s where I grew up and Mum and Dad still live in the town and I have two brothers that also play golf and we bled that place when we were kids. It means a lot to us. So to be able to do something to help keep the doors of the club open - it’s pretty cool we can do that now - given what the club did for me growing up. We always think of the big cities and the golf courses around Australia, but there are some amazing country golf courses that are just as special,” he said.
Marcus believes golf as a sport is going through a boom again as it appeals to a broad range of age brackets and it is great for people’s mental health - to be outside in fresh air exercising and spending time with friends. He says it’s a great sport for people to get involved in because of the club environment, having a positive effect on our wellbeing in ways we may not really think about at times.
A surge of younger golfers are now taking up the sport, compared to when Marcus knocked on the door of the professional circuit, with more young kids and male and female golfers getting started in their early 20s. Marcus said the age
demographic is definitely dropping, compared to times when it was thought of as an older person’s sport. For those who have reached an elevated level in golfing and have that niggling feeling in the back of their mind about turning pro, Marcus shared some useful advice.
“Just keep playing the game for the reasons you started playing it,” he said.
“I started playing because I loved it and kept playing because I loved the game. Make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons and if you want to turn professional, practice hard and do everything you possibly can to improve - mentally and physically with match practice - and utilising the technology now available around the sport to improve. You never stop learning in this game, as is the case with a lot of things.”
Reflecting on his career highlights, including tournament wins and representing Australia at the Olympics, Marcus said those wins were why he practiced the way he did as a kid. The goal of playing tournaments well is why he has devoted his life to improving and pushing himself to be better. He turns 47 years old in July and the plan is to keep playing. He will join the seniors tour once he turns 50 and he has an exemption in Europe to play there. Marcus is also tempted to play in America where a lucrative tour is on offer. His tournament schedule is light-on in 2025 because he lost his status in Asia, so he’ll be playing some local domestic tournaments and spending more time at home.
“My wife Carlie has been able to hold the fort at home and look after the kids while I’ve been off chasing my dreams. Mum and Dad and my whole family have always been really supportive of me, jumping on a plane and heading over the other side of the world. I feel like I’m playing for them, just as much as I am playing for myself,” he said.
SHOWCASE EVENT / The Marcus Fraser Ambrose is a weekend-long golfing extravaganza held at the beautiful Corowa Golf Club.
Discover the Charm and Excellence of Corowa Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of Corowa, the Corowa Golf Club offers an unforgettable experience for golf lovers and leisure seekers alike. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the club’s superb facilities cater to all needs.
A standout feature is the newly installed driving range, perfect for warming up or improving your skills in a state-of-the-art environment. The 18-hole championship course offers a mix of beauty and challenge, with every hole presenting a unique test. Whether you’re enjoying a morning round or a leisurely afternoon, the course provides a stunning backdrop.
The club’s fully stocked ProShop offers everything from top-tier golf equipment to stylish apparel, and the knowledgeable staff is always ready to provide expert advice. After your round, unwind in the luxury cinema, featuring 58 leather reclining seats and screening the latest movies — a perfect way to relax after a day on the green.
For dining and socialising, the bar and bistro, offer a range of delicious meals and refreshing drinks in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, the bistro caters to all tastes. The café, open seven days a week, serves up fresh coffee, pastries, and light bites to fuel your day.
If you’re looking to extend your stay, the club offers 34 comfortable, budget-friendly rooms, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of golf or entertainment. Take advantage of the play and stay packages for great value and convenience, allowing you to enjoy an extended getaway without the hassle.
The Corowa Golf Club is more than just a place to play golf; it’s a destination where you can enjoy world-class amenities, superb food, and exceptional entertainment. Whether you’re playing a round, catching a movie, or enjoying a meal with friends, every visit promises to be memorable. Visit today and experience the ultimate in golfing and leisure!
Cooper Lilly& DALY
Date
November 22, 2024
Venue
The Pavilion Restaurant at Buller Wines
Celebrant
Ceremonies by Haidee
Florist
Miss Laura Floral and Styling
Dress
Riva Bridal
Shoes
Forever Soles
Suit
M.J. Bale
Wedding party attire
BEC + BRIDGE
Make-up
Alaura Jade Make Up
Hair stylist
Salon Mysa
Decor
Ledger & Co Event Hire
Signage
Blaze Displays
Music
Lennon Paul Music
Cake
Iggy & Crumb
Wedding Rings
Mikola Jewellers
PHOTOGRAPHER | Rachael Emmily Photography
My advice is to make decisions based on what feels right and aligns with you as a couple. We did that, and the whole day felt so comfortable, fun and very us.
“ ”
Lachlan Matilda & SMITH
PHOTOGRAPHER | Rachael Emmily Photography
Date
October 5, 2024
Videographer
Levi Goldspink @reelgoldfilms
Venue
Olive Hills Estate, Rutherglen
Caterer
GRACE. bar + eatery
Celebrant
Tam Brown
Florist
Thistle & Fern
Dress
Sean Rentaro
Suits
M.J. Bale
Make-up
Pepper Studio
Hair
Leanne Hartnett
Stationery
Matt Gillman, Grzz
Band
Fiction Cover Band
Live Music
Patrick Russell
“
“It was such a beautiful day at Olive Hills, with all our loved ones coming together to join us as we became husband and wife.”
”
JEWELLERS
Park Lane Retail and Production Nursery & Services
Park Lane Nursery is a local business selling a wide range of quality plants, trees and gardening products as well as a recently added shop stocking beautiful gifts and homewares. It also produces around 175,000 native tube stock seedlings each year for a variety of customers and community organisations.
Many people are surprised to learn Park Lane Nursery is a division of Merriwa Industries; an organisation which has been providing training, employment and community inclusion opportunities for people with disability in the Wangaratta community since 1975.
The friendly staff at Park Lane not only offer great quality products, but they are willing to go the extra mile for their customers by providing horticultural knowledge and expertise. Their native tube stock seedlings are grown on site which means they are suited to the local environment, giving them the best chance of survival in all conditions.
Park Lane believes all people are capable, valuable and have something to contribute. It has a unique workforce model called Integrated Employment meaning people with and without disability work alongside each other, providing a safe and inclusive workplace to learn, grow and achieve together.
One of the most compelling reasons to support Park Lane Nursery is the social impact it provides, with all profits going back into providing employment opportunities for people with disability. Customers are not only getting great value from Park Lane’s range of products and services, they are also making an important contribution to the wellbeing of their local community.
To find out more, visit Park Lane’s website, sign up to receive their regular newsletter and enjoy access to expert knowledge, ideas and information on upcoming events and activities; all designed to build a community that cares.
MEDITATION on a living landscape
Artist and garden designer Ralph Bristow has created a spectacular garden for all seasons on a rural property in Barwite.
THE Barwite property was an odd little rectangle on a map, seven acres that had previously been used for horses, and before that held stock herded from High Country grazing and yarded before market day. Nicky Sanders, a photographer and graphic designer by trade, had bought the property with its Broken River frontage right in the middle of the drought and as an owner builder, set about creating a home for her two young daughters. In between project managing and mixing render she planted out a small copse of eucalypts along one of the boundaries, however it wasn’t until partner Ralph moved in that the garden would become a labour of love.
A renowned artist, Ralph Bristow balanced painting with perennial garden design, and with the couple sharing a studio on-site, his focus soon turned to his surrounds. On the banks of the river there was some surviving native habitat, however apart from one lone tree in the house paddock, the garden in its very early days was more a proliferation of weeds and blackberries needing to be kept at bay. It was around four and a half years ago that Ralph tentatively began planting out the block, the project more for the family’s pleasure and his own enjoyment and satisfaction. The soil was a slightly heavy loam offering up great nutrient and moisture retention and it represented a perfect blank canvas for Ralph to begin to create his masterpiece. The vision was to have very large,
deep garden beds intersected by the occasional meandering pathway, where you could find yourself completely immersed in a wild, natural garden. Plotting out pathways, which effectively served as an under-drawing, helped Ralph visualise placement, composition and proportions of the garden. To this he added a cubic kilometre of mulch and organic matter to prepare the beds which, as it has broken down, has fed the mycelium and soil fauna, resulting in a rich, friable loam to work with. Then Ralph began to plant.
“It was a process informed by intuition, feelings and imaginings - much how I approach painting in the studio,” he said.
Ralph paints on a grand scale – his canvases large and resplendent with colour and bold strokes and conviction - but this three-acre work of art was his first personal horticultural creation on this scale. Oil is usually his chosen medium, the layering and depth achievable with the paint and the process, something he replicates in his garden, “painting” with a palette of plants. Coined the “New Perennial Movement”, Ralph’s designs mimic nature, featuring plants from around the world. It requires an extensive horticultural knowledge and understanding of the entire growing cycle, whilst being able to visualise the impact of seasonal, day-to-day and even time-ofday changes. >>
words Emma Oliver photos Nicky Sanders
COLOURFUL PALETTE / Renowned artist Ralph Bristow balances painting on large scale canvases, with perennial garden design.
“Using my knowledge and background in plants, gardening, garden design and painting, the Barwitian Garden is a garden pulled from the imagined world into the real,” he said.
“And rather than approaching the process haphazardly, the garden is more a deep meditation on creating a threedimensional living entity with every aspect considered.”
At the outset, Ralph’s aspirations were modest, but as the first plantings settled into the landscape the creative process began to flow, the project ongoing as the garden is not static.
“After the planting becomes established, many plants then start to naturalise to some extent with self-sowing, and the dialogue between myself and the garden matures,” he said.
“I let the garden tell me what to do to a point, and within that allow the plants to find a balance in how they can live together.”
The garden now commands three acres of the riverside block encompassing the straw bale house, its great glass windows looking out on a landscape buzzing with vitality and teeming with insect, bird and animal life; a virtual oasis in the yellow of the rain-starved paddocks surrounding the property. Around 20,000 plants - the majority perennials with natives, grasses, bulbs, cacti, woody plants, shrubs and trees – have all been carefully chosen for their qualities in hardiness, adaptability, form, structure and colour.
“Having this depth in the garden is deeply considered,” he said.
“It takes into account not just the environment in which the garden sits, but along with colour and texture, consideration is given to rhythm and height, with plants en masse, in swathes, and highlighting or contrasting plants used to punctuate the natural flow.”
According to Ralph there are hundreds of different species
of plants all with these specific attributes, allowing the garden to evolve and change from one day to the next and as the weather turns and the seasons wax and wane. Spring is full of bulbs, abundant growth with lots of flowering, reaching peak vibrancy late into the season and going into summer. In autumn the garden transforms into a rich tapestry of colour, the season bringing a change in palette, some hues more subdued and subtle against a bonfire of reds, oranges and yellows. The deciduous trees and shrubs put on a final spectacle before casting aside their autumnal splendour and settling into a gentle repose.
The blue grey of the flowering grass Andropogon ‘Prairies Blue’ embraces a smokey pink tone, as the Stipa ichu, a Peruvian grass, takes on a golden glow. The two- and-a-half metre flowering grass tree Xanthorrhoea glauca hybrid, like a lone sentinel stands resolute in a cluster of susurrating grasses. Its white flowers spent and now dormant after its springtime allure, this favourite amongst the pollinators – both bird and insect - has taken on a sculptural element, its towering seed head charcoal against the fading backdrop. The heart-shaped leaves of the Cercis canadensis ‘Forest pansy’ redolent in burgundy, have started to darken and deepen with the change in season, before a final burst of flaming orange signals the beginning of winter – a last hurrah. The Agastache – one of the garden’s prevalent genera, dotted throughout the beds in a variety of cultivars –will continue flowering until the end of autumn. Aesthetically appealing, the plant serves the additional purpose of being deer, kangaroo and rabbit resistant. Potent with essential oils and part of the mint family, it serves as a deterrent to native and introduced foragers and grazers, protecting surrounding plants in the process. And the dark brown husks - the depleted
WINTER WONDER / While most of The Barwitian Garden lays dormant through winter, it then puts on an incredible display, dusted with frost.
SPRING BEAUTY / Spring is full of bulbs, abundant growth and colourful flowers, reaching peak vibrancy late into the season, going into summer.
remains of the Phlomis flower - will persist throughout winter. A textural feature they come into their own as the garden loses its foliage, and the plants take on shades of oat, straw and brown interspersed with purple, yellow and black.
“Most of the garden lays dormant throughout winter,” said Ralph.
“However even then it puts on an incredible display with the skeletal forms dusted with extensive frost, spiderwebs glittering in the light, temperatures down to minus 10 degrees, otherworldly in this frozen state. Every season is celebrated to the full – never static, always articulating the state of entropy.”
Mid-to-late winter the entire garden is cut back except for the evergreens, shrubs and trees which are pruned for health and shape. Laying bare, there is a sense of anticipation as the garden waits ready to begin the cycle anew. Ralph acknowledges there is a misconception that perennial gardens are “set and forget”. This constantly evolving landscape needs to be nurtured and managed and beyond the pruning, weeding, mulching and composting – all done by hand - there are ongoing adjustments and deliberations over new seedlings. And then there is the expansion. Every year as the plants grow, so the garden’s footprint expands. Ralph professes it is almost complete but every time you visit it has burst its constraints, like nature reclaiming land left bare, coaxed by Ralph’s deft touch and loving encouragement.
“The garden is substantial in size,” he admits with a smile.
“Enough to warrant a lot of work, but it’s something I’m deeply passionate about, so I make it complex and love the constant engagement.”
The garden is a direct reflection of this passion and has become for Ralph one of his defining works as a garden designer.
“The Barwitian Garden has definitely been a big step in launching my career both nationally and internationally,” he said. Featuring in a number of books and prominent magazines and publications both domestically and globally, the garden has also been open multiple times through Open Gardens Victoria as well as hosting a fundraiser for the local hospital facilitated by the Mansfield Garden Club. Garnering somewhat of a following amongst garden afficionados and industry professionals, Ralph’s social media account sits just shy of 10,000 people. The attention and love for his garden continues to amaze and humble him, with each open garden welcoming a strong local contingent and visitors from across Australia and on numerous occasions, from overseas as well.
“The feedback I get is overwhelmingly positive with people either going home inspired to create a wild natural garden – be that on a small garden block, a large acreage rural property or a new home build – or acquiring my services as a garden designer,” Ralph said.
Marion Whitehead, supervisor ornamental gardens and nursery from the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, has been following Ralph and his garden. When the decision was made to breathe new life into their formal garden - the centrepiece of the 28 hectare heritage-listed site - she was keen to get Ralph on board to reimagine the 4300 square metre space. Taking pride of place at the summit of the Mount Tomah site, the formal garden has undergone numerous iterations over the last half century, most recently featuring seasonal bulb displays, a short-lived riot of colour that sat fallow for the majority of the year.
“It was time for another transformation to once again capture the public’s imagination and inspire the awe that only a sprawling garden can evoke,” Marion said. >>
“While botanic gardens often emphasise scientific and conservation collections, Ralph taps into the emotional core of gardening – channeling feelings into beautiful landscapes.”
Ralph admits the brief was not without it challenges, containing his wild natural aesthetic within the confines of a more formal layout.
“It was a difficult task to give broken-up very defined spaces that sense of continuity and freedom,” Ralph said, however Marion confirms it is something Ralph has masterfully achieved. The garden has flourished in the conducive climes of the Blue Mountains – the location and environmental conditions providing the perfect alchemy necessary to growing an incredible array of plants.
“The transformation is a testament to power of vision, artistry and dedicated care,” Marion said.
“Through Ralph’s inspired design and the meticulous efforts of the horticultural team, the garden has become a dynamic and ever-evolving celebration of both nature and art. As visitors stroll through its seasonal displays, they are invited to connect with the landscape, to reflect on the stories of the plants, and to find their own moments of awe. And with a new plant or combination becoming the ‘hero’ of the garden every day, the moments of discovery are limitless.”
Eighteen months into the project, the reception has been so positive that Ralph has been approached to design gardens for
the Royal Botanic Gardens at Mt Annan in New South Wales as well as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney. This is alongside private gardens in Western Australia, South Australia and across Victoria, both in the country and the city.
And then there is a garden in Egypt - a veritable oasis in the desert. A lawyer by profession, Rasheed Kamel is also an art collector, with his Cairo-based gallery specialising in contemporary art and collectible design. Heavily involved with the arts both in his home country and overseas - it is his passion - on returning from his apartment in London to his Egyptian home, it was an article read in transit in the magazine Gardens Illustrated that specifically caught his attention. On the southern outskirts of Cairo, Rasheed’s home overlooks the Abusir and Saqqara pyramids, the latter a vast necropolis of the ancient Egyptian capital and home to the nation’s oldest pyramid. From the sweeping verandahs across the extensive grassed and walled courtyard, gazing across the sands of the Egyptian desert and beyond to the pyramids, Rasheed had been contemplating a garden. The article in Gardens Illustrated (considered one of the world’s best gardening magazines) featured Ralph and his Barwitian Garden and it was his approach to garden design that particularly resonated with Rasheed. And so he messaged Ralph - a brief query over social media as to whether he would be interested in designing his garden. To be in Gardens Illustrated alone was a
LAYERED LANDSCAPE / Coined the “New Perennial Movement”, the garden’s design mimics nature but features species from around the world.
significant honour, however despite the exposure, Ralph had never imagined he would one day design a garden in the Middle East. Eight weeks after that first correspondence, Ralph with partner Nicky were on a flight to Cairo and so began a working relationship grounded in a mutual love of art and plants. A lush green lawn is incredibly desirable in Egypt and with Rasheed’s five acre garden the location for multiple social events - as he loves to entertain - part of the design process has involved encouraging Rasheed to embrace the possibilities.
“To be able to walk into a lush garden sanctuary and be present and immersed in the experience is what I’m all about,” said Ralph.
Translating the vision to local gardeners who will be responsible for nurturing and maintaining the garden has also proved challenging - the aesthetic far removed from the garden ideal seen today in Egypt. Whilst there is a history of French designers and landscape architects creating private gardens in the country for wealthy clients, Ralph believes he may be the only Australian. and this may be one of the first wild perennial landscapes in the country. When Ralph and Nicky left Egypt after a whirlwind two weeks the focus was on bringing in organic matter, with the initial selection of plants dry-tolerant, working from a limited choice available in the country.
“The planting palette is obviously very different from North East Victoria, but I have a deep love for all the plants being used
in the project from amazing palms to cycads, tough herbs and Mediterranean grasses.
“The land all around the Nile is also incredibly fertile,” said Ralph.
“It’s just a matter of irrigating it and revitalising the soil biology and introducing different types of mycelium. That really vibrant biodiversity of the soil will also help hold water and activates minerals for the plants.”
With multiple zones and stages planned, trees have been going in and hardscaping like paving and the construction of ponds is underway with sculptures also planned for the site, all in keeping with the Moroccan and Islamic architecture of the house. Ralph envisages he will be back and forth to Egypt over the coming years refining the design and overseeing the various stages of the garden. He feels incredibly privileged to be entrusted with the task, and though he understands there will be some compromises, Ralph hopes that he and Rasheed will dream big and realise a shared grand vision. And, as Ralph admits, plants can become a bit addictive. What began as a passion project on the banks of the Broken, this love of plants, gardening and garden design has taken Ralph from the mountain climes of the Blue Mountains to the river flats of the Nile.
“It’s all been part of this wonderful journey of living with a garden,” he said.
PASSION PROJECT / The Barwitian Garden has become one of Ralph Bristow’s defining works, launching his career nationally and internationally.
A heritage-listed icon of the High Country is set to become an outdoor education centre, providing a range of adventure activities for school students.
Mt Buffalo Chalet
FROM its perch atop Bent's Lookout, the Mt Buffalo Chalet has stood as an iconic jewel of Victoria's High Country for more than a century. Built in 1910 by the Victorian Government for £3195, the imposing ‘Grand Old Dame' of the North East accommodated generations of visitors year round until its closure by a private leasee in 2007, after having survived the threat of bushfires which destroyed the nearby Cresta Valley ski lodge in 2006.
Concerted efforts by the local community to see it revived have helped procure millions of dollars from federal and state governments to conserve and protect the facade and foundations of one of Australia's largest timber buildings amid unrelenting alpine conditions. However, efforts by the state government in the last couple of years to re-open part of the chalet as a day centre with a cafe were thwarted by the absence of any willing operators.
But the chalet has been offered a new lease of life under a 40-year arrangement between custodian Parks Victoria and commercial operator Belgravia Group, which is to transform the idle heritage listed facility into a vibrant outdoor education centre - with caving, bushwalking, abseiling, kayaking and canoeing on Lake Catani and Indigenous education - all readily accessible. Richard Thornton, chief executive officer of Belgravia Outdoor Education which is to operate the chalet for Belgravia Group, said school groups have already started visiting and
staying at Mt Buffalo, although in adjoining accommodation to the chalet.
"We still need to do quite a lot of work on making the chalet building compliant," he said.
"The rooms will be retained as they are...we're not looking to be a high-end hotel...our focus is about getting young people into the building and using the building. We're hoping to have chalet accommodation opened in late 2025. Our plan is for 40 weeks of the year, during the school terms, the building will be full of school kids from Monday to Friday, that's our aspiration. When the students are in the building; we need to make sure there isn't public access. Then weekends and school holidays, initially, the chalet will be open for group bookings."
Mr Thornton said the cafe at the chalet will be opened well before the 2025/26 summer, which will help give the wider community access to the chalet. He said they want the chalet to be fully operational by 2027, which includes looking at more renewable off grid power alternatives, like doubling solar and battery, with the potential for hydrogen in future. While winter visitation, with the prospect of snow, remains appealing, there will be a big focus on maximising green season opportunities. It is hoped this new venture can make the chalet not just an ornament of the past, but a viable and accessible tourism asset to be enjoyed once again by the public at large well into the future.
words Jeff Zeuschner photos Jeff Zeuschner
HISTORIC PROPERTY / The imposing 'Grand Old Dame' of the North East was built in 1910 by the Victorian Government for £3195.
Ros Ritchie Wines – a name synonymous with Wine Excellence. Quality. Individuality. Integrity.
A proudly Australian family-owned wine business. Distributed Australia wide by Domaine Wine Shippers (an Australian owned family business) into high end restaurants and fine wine merchants.
Ros Ritchie Wines is owned and run by Ros Ritchie and her husband John Adams, both from long term farming Mansfield families.
Ros is Mansfield’s longest serving and bestknown winemaker, growing up on the family’s farm and the first vineyard planted in the region by Ros’ parents in 1968.
Ros Ritchie Wines specializes in single variety, single vineyard wines from fruit grown entirely from vineyards in the Mansfield region, with an accent on Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Meunier, Cabernet and Nebbiolo.
Visit the Cellar Door at the Magnolia for an informative and relaxed wine experience and we will show you some of the best cool climate wines in Australia; Ros’ wines have an exceptional record, winning awards at major Australian wine shows for over 40 years.
Set in the gardens adjacent to the Cellar Door and the historic Magnolia tree is the Pavilion; any event you hold in this beautiful private space will be perfect, whether a birthday, anniversary, reunion, wedding, business forum, end of year party or Christmas celebration.
Show Results
National Cool Climate Wine Show
2 Golds (Pinot Meunier 2022, Top Gold Cabernet Sauvignon 2022)
As one of the premiere sports and events precincts in regional Victoria, the Wangaratta Sports & Aquatic Centre (WSAC) is also an important place for community connection where active lifestyles are supported.
This state-of-the-art facility was built by the community, for the community. The indoor and outdoor heated pools welcome swimmers of all abilities, from little ones blowing their first bubbles to seniors maintaining mobility and strength, and everything in between. Access to the spacious 24/7 gym means your training can be adapted to even the busiest schedule. Over 75 Group fitness classes per week offer movement with a social outlet.
In 2024, WSAC's commitment to excellence was recognised when they received Aquatic Recreation Victoria's
prestigious Best Medium Facility award— validating the centre's outstanding service and innovative programs. This recognition coincided with WSAC's 50th anniversary celebration, marking five decades of fostering community health, wellness and sport.
"WSAC is a place where people come together to be active, learn new skills, and for some, connect and be social with others. Every day, we see patrons of all ages making the most of our diverse range of programs and facilities. The WSAC staff and I are privileged to work in such a great facility, that can positively impact the lives of everyone in our local community." Leon Newton, Sports, Aquatics and Events Manager said WSAC staff are integral to the sense of belonging for patrons. They provide a
welcoming smile upon arrival and the extra push needed in each program or service. The experienced leaders complimented by the qualified instructors/teachers, create an atmosphere where everyone feels supported and inspired to reach their potential. "I've been coming to WSAC for years," says a local resident. "What started as casual swimming with my kids has evolved into a weekly routine that keeps our whole family active. The staff know us by name, and there's always a friendly face to greet us."
A brand new multi-purpose all-sport stadium, along with squash/racquetball courts, provide ample spaces where friendly competition and skill development thrive. Water safety remains a priority, and WSAC is a proud Watch Around Water Centre. Parents and guardians can feel confident knowing their children are swimming in an environment where vigilance and supervision are paramount. The introduction of Lifesaving Victoria's Bush Nippers program to Wangaratta has been revolutionary, teaching local children essential water safety knowledge and skills specifically tailored to inland waterways. This initiative reflects WSAC's innovative approach to community safety and education.
DANNY CRAVEN always a local:
Can you tell us about life growing up in the North East?
Mum and Dad packed me and my five sisters up when I was 10 and moved to Chiltern from Thornbury (Melbourne). We spent four years in Chiltern, travelling to Champagnat College by bus to school before moving into Wangaratta when I was 14. Apart from the ferreting and gold panning, I was playing footy with Chiltern thirds on a Saturday and Wodonga under 13s on a Sunday, and cricket in the summer. Rowdy Lappin was my mentor, and I remember my first senior game of cricket in Rutherglen playing on old coir matting pitches.
Can you tell us where you are now?
We have lived in Brisbane since 1993. I married Kim Wealands on January 9 in Wangaratta and we moved up. We have two sons, Xavier and Jasper, who are Queenslanders but love visiting Wang whenever they can. We were fortunate to buy a Snooze franchise in ‘94, and we now have three of them and Xav is part of the family business. Footy has been a big part of our whole family life for the last 32 years.
What did you love about where you grew up?
Gee…who didn’t love the ‘80s in the North East of Victoria? Riding our bikes
everywhere, fresh air, snow at the foothills, footy in winter, cricket in summer, rabbiting, shooting, fishing, best golf course belt in the world. Chiltern was my first taste of the bush, and I loved my four years there growing up, delivering newspapers, living in the old presbytery on the hill, first kiss, first drink, school bus, Ovens and King footy, cricket, ferrets, etc.
You moved north after playing 33 games with St Kilda in 1989, ‘91 and ‘92, and then played a further 25 games with the Brisbane Bears. Your association with Queensland footy has seen you involved on every level and led to your induction to the Queensland Football Hall of Fame in 2023. What are some of your career highpoints?
Playing/coaching my first senior flag at West Brisbane in 1996 is hard to top, but I loved my five years of senior footy at Wang Magpies. Some of my best memories and mates to this day were forged there. To see them going so well in recent years is fantastic, and to have Jasper playing for the ‘Pies this year is exciting. Seven years of AFL footy was great and ultimately shaped where we live today, but the reality is I think I ended up a better coach than a player, and a lot of special moments, and flags with a few clubs over the last 28 years, are probably what I’ll look back on most fondly.
What’s the first thing you do when you return to the North East?
Go visit my Mum, Elaine, and catch up on all the latest! Tell my wife, Kim, all the nostalgic stories of our childhood as we drive through town. Drive past the Maggies ground slowly, then speed up as I go past the Rovers… I love coming back, this is my home town, I love the place and all the great things it provides to this day. And I do love a nostalgic whack of golf out at Waldara or Jubilee when we can - usually with Duane Kerwin, Carlo Tonini and Rick Lawford.
After living away from the region, what about it has stayed with you?
The relaxed feel, the country folk ways, everyone’s just a bit more friendly and nicer, it’s the way we were all brought up in the bush - you’ve gotta love it. It’s funny, I even like Albury nowadays. Back then I was raised to hate all opposition outside Wang, but my wiser, older self, appreciates these things. I also ended up Queensland clubmates with Shaun Daly, Josh Duffy and Coojie Brunnenmeyer, who are all Albury boys, which didn’t hurt. The wineries, the snow, the rivers, the golf courses, the weather, the Hume Highway, the footy and the people all make the North East the best place in Victoria to live, I reckon.
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