Secrets Magazine - Issue 49 - Spring 2016

ISSUE 49 SPRING 2016 PRICELESS

Delicious all day grazing in the enchanted Botanic Gardens on Wombat Hill, Daylesford..

Cover Photography – Kim Selby Photography Floral Design – Flowers in a Vase Candy Jars – Candy Buffet by Design Cake – Blackbird Cakes

CONTENTS 5 6 7 7 9 11 13 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23

From Smeaton To New York The Best For Weddings The Way Of Arnie Experience And A Love Of Flowers The Ultimate Wedding Venue Unique Weddings At The Cosmo A Tree Change That Has Worked It’S Rude Not To Stare Town On A Plate: The Forge Pizzeria Two Great Dining Destinations Fine Foods From Springmount It’s All In Harcourt Festival Of Gardens – 25 Years Art & Beautiful Gardens Maldon Folkie, Bigger And Better

24 26 27

Heritage Uncorked Is Back A Charming Family Day Out The Right Buildings For Tomorrow

Regulars 20 36 38

Town On A Plate Spring Astrology Markets

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FROM THE EDITOR The past few months we have seen more rain than we’ve experienced for a very long time. Dams are full to overflowing, low lying paddocks have become wetlands and normally docile creeks are running high and fast. Apart from being a bit tired of grey skies, we’re not complaining as it sets us up for those glorious, long hot days of summer when we enjoy the freedom that summer brings and we finish up whinging about how hot it is – bring it on. In the meantime, we enjoy one of the prettiest times of year through spring and we think this spring issue is also one of our prettiest.

Our lead story is on former local girl Anna Campbell of Anna Campbell Bridal Designs who over the past ten years, has had a meteoric rise to the international stage with her stunning bridal designs. Anna’s wedding dresses are now available in North and South America, the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Not bad for a girl who grew up riding horses on the family farm in Smeaton.

We also give a nod to the growing popularity of Central Victoria as a destination for weddings, especially among couples from the

metropolitan area. Our region can boast some of the best venues, from “bale of hay” casual to high end sophistication and very talented and innovative florists, wedding planners, cake designers, creative chefs, wine makers, in fact just about anything that goes into making a special day even more special.

We also spoke to Carmel Masterson who along with husband Brett created Springmount Fine Foods, which has in a few short years achieved a prestigious award for their fruit paste. They have also created a little known, but much sought after gourmet line of black garlic. No it doesn’t grow black, it is all in the processing. Our Town on a Plate feature in this issue has a more casual feel with a delicious pasta dish from The Forge, Ballarat’s popular pizzeria. We know it’s delicious as we got to eat it after the photo shoot.

Enjoy spring and we look forward to bringing you some really good stories, already “in the can” for our summer issue. As well as more about our exciting Expo in March, 2017.

Cheers, Norma Morton

ISSUE 49 SPRING 2016 Published by

Secrets Magazine ABN 35 535 679 949

Mailing Address Phone Email Web

PO Box 356 Creswick VIC 3363 03 5345 7260 info@secretsmagazine.com.au www.secretsmagazine.com.au

Editor Artwork & Layout Photography & Administration Contributors

Norma Morton Nick Morton, Kathy Lange Suzanne Cooke Lyndall McQuinn, Amelia James

All content in this publication is copyright and may not be re-produced in whole or in part in any form without prior permission of the publisher. Secrets will be distributed quarterly throughout Victoria and various tourism outlets.

Secrets is also available from cafes, restaurants, B&B’s, hotels and shops. All care is taken to ensure accuracy of articles and advertising, however the publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions and references are a guide only and not intended as a recommendation.

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FROM SMEATON TO NEW YORK Riding horses around the family farm in Smeaton is a long way from the international bridal fashion stage, but that’s how far Anna Campbell has travelled in a career that could be described as meteoric. Anna has always loved fashion and made a wedding dress inspired creation as a Year Twelve project.

This led to a move to Melbourne to study fashion, but it wasn’t long before she decided that the formal path wasn’t really for her.

Having designed and made head and small bridal pieces, she set about “pounding the pavement” selling her unique styles to small boutiques, with one shop carrying one of her bridal dresses. About this time an agent found Anna and taught her how to wholesale her designs. Over the intervening ten years, Anna has gathered around her a strong, creative team who have helped to make Anna Campbell a much sought after designer in North America, Canada, UK, Europe, South America, Australia and New Zealand.

An Anna Campbell wedding dress is an intricately designed mix of silks, laces and complex beading that make the creation instantly recognisable.

Each year Anna and her team work on taking her ideas and developing them into a collection that she takes to New York in October. There she meets with international buyers who take her creations, that are all made in Melbourne, worldwide. Anna said “This year we have one dress in the new collection that is entirely covered in beads and is stunning”.

In January this year, Anna married the love of her life, Murray and said “I wore four different dresses on that day”, all her own designs of course, adding “It was the most wonderfully, beautiful day, surrounded by the people I love”.

Asked where she sees herself in five years’ time, Anna hesitated for a second, but only a second and replied strongly “I want to be settled with a family in a home with horses, close to the city”. “I also want to ensure that the ethics of my designs are as strong then as they are now”.

Anna has come a long way from that farm in Smeaton, which she still visits whenever her busy life allows and at only twenty nine, there is a very bright future ahead.

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THE BEST FOR WEDDINGS Central Victoria is fast becoming a major destination for weddings, especially amongst couples from the metropolitan area. Some couples are looking for that casual, “bale of hay” style country wedding, whilst others want high end sophistication of fine dining.

The region provides it all. From the Macedon Ranges and towns such as Woodend and Macedon to the ever popular Daylesford and emerging destination of Creswick, there is a venue to appeal to all tastes, styles and desires. It’s not just venues that stand out in Central Victoria. All the other requirements for a perfect wedding are at hand. Innovative and talented florists who go beyond the ubiquitous cream rose bouquet of a few years ago, to a much broader selection of flowers in every colour, hue and size and who work with couples to provide exactly what they

want. Food is always a major highlight of any wedding and our region boasts some of the most talented chefs who surpass themselves when it comes to wedding fare. And of course there are the fantastic regional wines and craft beers available along with amazing cake designers, wedding planners, photographers, in fact anything needed to make a special day even more special. All this complimented by great accommodation, day spas, great dining, be it high end or casual and the stunning views that are the perfect backdrop for those essential wedding photos. All in all, no matter where you go in our region for a wedding, it will be a cracker.

Boutique Florist - Daylesford Floral Styling for Weddings & Events 10 Howe St. ph: (03) 5348 4715 www.woottonandnicholls.com.au photo: Dean Raphael

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F L O W E R S I N A VA S E 35a Anslow Street, Woodend 03 5427 4554 www.flowersinavase.com.au

THE WAY OF ARNIE Arnie Way, owner of Flowers in a Vase in Woodend had for many years thought she would like to move into floristry, but hadn’t really gotten around to it. However, after 25 years of working in banking and hotels and following a bout of ill health, it was time to make the move – and she hasn’t regretted one minute of it. Starting out in Macedon, Arnie moved to her Woodend premises in 2014, learning along the way as she is totally self taught. Being very much a people person, Arnie completely involves herself with each bridal couple – discussing their colour palette, seasonal blooms and availability and from there, spends a lot of hours creating the arrangements that are individual to her clients with an emphasis on colour, form and texture.

The life of a florist isn’t all pretty flowers and arranging, it’s a lot of hard work. Each week, come rain, hail or shine, Arnie is out of bed

at 2am and heading down to the wholesale market in Melbourne to find the best and freshest blooms. Arnie works mostly alone, with husband Barry lending a hand and a band of trusty casuals helping out in the very busy season between October and April. The wedding market is growing rapidly, especially in the Macedon Ranges, so it keeps Arnie, Barry and their team on the hop. However, Arnie has a special affinity with designing and creating flowers for funerals. She says, “It is the last act for people in life, so it has to be special, I confer with families about their loved one’s favourite flowers and build a beautiful farewell arrangement for them”, adding “It is my tribute”.

Flowers in a Vase is at 35a Anslow Street, Woodend – www.flowersinavase.com.au.

EXPERIENCE AND A LOVE OF FLOWERS With a passion for event and wedding floral styling it stands to reason that Zara Nicholls of Wootton and Nicholls would style and create the flowers for her own wedding coming up in March. Together with fiancé Danny, Zara runs their quaint flower shop in Daylesford and is rapidly approaching their first anniversary having opened the doors in November, 2015.

Danny, a sign writer, specialises in hand painted signs and has added to the décor of the shop with quirky signs dotting the walls. Queenslander Zara and South African Danny had been living in Melbourne for some years where Zara studied floristry. When deciding to make the move to Daylesford, friends suggested they open a greengrocer and flower shop, which they did, but have pared down to just flowers as the wedding and event area is growing fast, leaving little

time for fruit and veg. Both Zara and Danny have vast experience, creative ideas and a love of flowers to ensure that they put everything into the weddings they cater for, starting with consulting with the bridal couple to decide on style - bearing in mind that today’s couples look for something different with stronger colours and texture. Although based in Daylesford, they will travel anywhere in Victoria to provide their special service for a wedding. The wedding calendar fills up fast, so couples are well advised to book ahead for their wedding flowers to avoid disappointment.

Zara also conducts workshops that are informative and fun, so go to the website for more details. Wootton and Nicholls is open 7 days at 10 Howe Street, Daylesford. www.woottonandnicholls.com.au

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Sault Restaurant – Daylesford

Weddings and Events

Indulge the senses amidst the most romantic setting at the most exquisite private property in the Daylesford region.

Encompassing the beauty of a natural setting with the wedding barn overlooking the lake and fields of lavender. www.sault.com.au

The Ultimate Liqueur Experience

Herbal Lore Liqueurs

Visit us on your next trip to Daylesford Complimentary tastings available The Old Butter Factory, Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford 0438 069 771 - www.herballoreliqueurs.com

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THE ULTIMATE WEDDING VENUE When Jodi and Damien Aylward bought Sault Restaurant, near Daylesford after celebrating their own wedding there, they couldn’t have imagined where the journey would lead ten years and two children later. Sault is now recognised as a premium restaurant and wedding venue, with exemplary dining and service delivery. However, it hasn’t just happened, it has taken a lot of hard work.

Jodi and Damien have gathered around them a team of dedicated chefs and service staff drawing accolades for their food and service delivery.

Sault’s 125 acres containing its own lake and lavender fields combined with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, Wombat State Forest and now with the renovated barn, with its recycled timbers and white interior providing a perfect setting for couples to exchange their vows, makes this the ultimate wedding location. We could stay with the aesthetics, but the dining menu created by Michelin trained head chef Santiago NineFernandez using the best of the region’s produce, is a major reason Sault is such a standout.

Jodi is very much the hands on hostess and is very involved in making this the best day of any bride’s life. As she says; “I have become a counsellor, stylist, helper, therapist and a shoulder to cry on when needed”. “This is a huge day for the bride and groom and of course, tensions kick in, so I find that I am often a buffer for all that emotion” Adding; “A thick skin is often needed, but I love to make the couples feel nurtured and special, which of course they are”. Jodi and Damien are supported by an exceptional team with the same belief system as themselves. As Jodi says “If there is a heart, there is love and they all really care”.

Coming into a competitive and complex industry as they did those ten years ago, never having done anything like it before, their journey is one they can look back on with great satisfaction. Looking forward, Jodi says “we want to finesse what we have achieved so far and just keep getting better”. There is little doubt that they’ll achieve their aims.

Sault Restaurant is on the Ballan-Daylesford Road, Daylesford. For details of hours visit www.sault.com.au.

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THE FARMER’S WIFE CLOTHING HOME WARES

49 albert st I creswick I 03 5345 1180 I www.thefarmerswife.co I tue to sat 10-4pm

The Grande Hotel

ALPACA PASSION Luxury at its finest ...

72 Vincent Street, Daylesford | P 03 5348 1177 www.alpacapassion.com.au

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Accommodation Restaurant Lounge Bar Cabaret Club Beer Garden Functions & Events

1 CHURCH AVENUE, HEPBURN SPRINGS P: 5348-1978 E: MANAGER@THEGRANDEHOTEL.COM.AU WWW.THEGRANDEHOTEL.COM.AU

UNIQUE WEDDINGS AT THE COSMO It is almost the stuff of legends – the resurrection of The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham from a burnt out shell in 2005 to become one of the best known and desired destinations in Central Victoria. Already steeped in history prior to the fire, having been built in 1866 and playing host to generations of Trentham locals, it seemed her days had come to an end until new owners, passionate about restoring the old girl to her former glory, reopened the doors in 2012. The Cosmopolitan has since gained a reputation for its fine food and service with an extensive wine, beer and cider list featuring the region’s best. The Cosmo, as she is known locally, is also a unique and delightful wedding venue. The beautiful historic gardens with the century-old elms provide a perfect setting

to conduct the ceremony with the Stables or private Dining Room available for that special celebration. The Stables in particular offer a stunning setting for seating up to 125 guests or more if a cocktail style event is preferred.

Couples choosing The Cosmopolitan will be well looked after by resident professional wedding planner Fiona Miovich. What Fiona doesn’t know about organising a wedding at The Cosmo isn’t worth knowing. She has an extensive list of the best suppliers of flowers, cake designers, bands, performers, photographers and just about anything else that goes into making this the best day in any couples lives. The Cosmopolitan Hotel is located on the corner of Cosmo Road and High Street, Trentham – to learn more visit www.thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au

Utilise the spectacular acre of historic gardens and restored stables to create a unique wedding on your special day.

Enjoy a true regional experience with menus utilising the finest local seasonal produce and a wine and beer list featuring the region’s best.

Open Wednesday - Sunday from midday. Private functions by appointment. Corner High St and Cosmo Rd, Trentham Grace Kelly Exhibition 03 5424 1516 – enquiries@thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au – www.thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au

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E X C L U S I V E FA S H I O N

54 Mostyn st | Castlemaine | 3450 | Vic | 03 5470 6014 | www.rike-design.com |

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WWW.PRANIGLOWDAYSPA.COM.AU | BOOKING

Allendale Nursery Hooked on Herbs Specializing in Herbs & Vegetable seedlings.

All ornamentals reduced to clear.

4141 Creswick-Newstead Road Allendale Phone 0411 551 550 allendalenursery@gmail.com Find us on Facebook Catch me at the following markets: 1st Saturday of the month 1st Sunday of the month 2nd Saturday of the month 2nd Sunday of the month 3rd Saturday of the month 3rd Sunday of the month

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Woodend Farmers Market Gisborne Olde Time Market Kyneton Farmers Market Maldon Market Creswick Market Talbot Farmers Market

0 4 6 7 2 0 7 329 | i n f o @ p r a n i g l o w d a y s p a . c o m . a u

CRESWICK ANNUAL GARDEN LOVERS WEEKEND 5TH & 6TH NOVEMBER 2016 Explore a wide range of commercial and private gardens in the Victorian Goldfields.

These range from compact suburban gardens to major commercial enterprises.

A botanical themed market, workshops and keynote speaker will enhance the weekend’s activities. The Creswick Neighbourhood Centre will be the point of contact for ticket sales, maps and general information regarding the gardens, mosaic displays, garden market and workshops over the weekend. Spread over two days, it is the ideal opportunity for garden lovers to meander among these treasured sites in and around one of the best architecturally impressive towns in Central Victoria. For more information about the open gardens and ticket sales call 03 5345 2759 or visit www.creswick.net/events_creswick/ garden-lovers-weekend-2016

A TREE CHANGE THAT HAS WORKED A weekend trip to the country five years ago resulted in a major life change for Ian and Jodie Hawkins and their two children Sophie and Zac. That was the weekend they bought The Grande Hotel in Hepburn Springs.

Without any prior experience in hospitality, turning a hotel that hadn’t been running for some time into a viable and successful business was a major endeavor, despite Ian’s considerable experience in the corporate world and Jodi’s career as an intensive care nurse. Ian says, “Managing the business through the start-up period was tough to say the least, requiring considerable investment in time and money, not to mention the pressure on the family-work-life balance,” adding, “but we have continued to march to our own beat.”

Along the way Ian and Jodi have incorporated a popular restaurant and lounge bar, as well as a weekly cabaret program that now hosts full house shows and receives many great reviews. Ian said “That makes us feel we have created something to be proud of and we also get to sit down at times with the local musician who has played guitar with Pete Townsend, or the cabaret performer who has tripped the light fantastic with Elton John, Mick Jagger and The Spice Girls”. Ian went on to say “Its great to have one of the nicest guys around town with us, Geoffrey Williams, who is not only very highly regarded as a singer-songwriter in his own right, but had Michael Jackson take

up and record one of his compositions.” Ian is pleased with where the hotel is heading stating that they have just taken their first wedding booking, with mid-week business conferences gaining momentum.

After three years of running The Grande Boutique Hotel, the Hawkins family have settled into country life with the children thriving at the local school that Ian and Jodi feel has exceptional regard for developing strong personal and educational values, and a great social culture. All in all, this tree change has delivered all it had promised, with a few ups and downs thrown in, but this family wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Book tickets now from seasonofthearts.com.au An Art Gallery of New South Wales Touring Exhibition

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Venue Partners

Archibald Prize finalist Natasha Bieniek Wendy Whiteley (detail) oil on wood, 34.5 x 32.5cm, Š the artist, Photo: AGNSW, Mim Stirling

Archibald Prize finalist Louise Hearman Barry Humphreys oil paint on Masonite, 69.5 x 100cm © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Nick Kreisler

Archibald Prize finalist Betina Fauvel-Ogden George Calombaris, masterchef oil on linen, 124.5 x 110cm © the artist Photo: AGNSW, Nick Kreisler

ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2016 IT’S RUDE NOT TO STARE The Art Gallery of Ballarat, Victoria’s oldest and largest regional gallery, is the exclusive Victorian venue for the Art Gallery of New South Wales’ touring exhibition of Australia’s favourite art award, the 2016 Archibald Prize.

The 2016 Archibald Prize attracted 830 entries with 51 announced as finalists. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s presentation will feature over 50 portraits. Amongst the eighteen Victorian finalists is the 2016 winning portrait of Barry Humphries by Melbourne artist Louise Hearman. Melbourne artist Betina FauvelOgden’s portrait of George Calombaris will be a favourite.

The exhibition will also feature a program of events across the six week event and will take to the streets, with the Young Archies. Over 4,500 portraits by regional school children will be displayed in the windows of shops and businesses across the centre of Ballarat.

Prestigious and controversial, the Archibald Prize is Australia’s foremost portraiture prize.

Awarded to the best painting of a notable Australian, the Archibald Prize is a who’s who of Australian culture, from politicians and

celebrities to sporting heroes and artists, with $100,000 prize money awarded to the winning artist.

Since its foundation in 1921, the Archibald Prize has been thrilling art enthusiasts and the general public alike, often stirring up controversy and always challenging the way we see ourselves and our society. Over the years, the prize has been awarded to many of Australia’s most prominent artists including Nora Heysen, William Dobell, Brett Whiteley, Ben Quilty, Tim Storrier and Fiona Lowry.

An open competition, the Archibald Prize is judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of NSW. Entries to the Archibald Prize must be painted in the past year from at least one live sitting. Finalists are exhibited at the Art Gallery of New South Wales before embarking on a year-long regional tour.

The exhibition is at the Art Gallery of Ballarat from 14th October to 27th November.

Tickets are now on sale and queuing can be avoided by booking in advance online at artgalleryofballarat.com.au. Tickets will also be available at the door.

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TOWN ON A PLATE: THE FORGE PIZZERIA Over the past six years, The Forge Pizzeria has become one of Ballarat’s best ‘go to’ eateries for casual quality dining. Brothers Tim and Chris Matthews created their restaurants in Armstrong Street and Alfredton from a passion for pizza perfection and simple yet delicious pasta dishes using the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Almost everything on the pizzas and other dishes comes from the surrounding district and all are complimented by a wide range of regional wines and beers. Working with head chef Scott Barclay and a dedicated team, the

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Matthews brothers have established a venue that today’s diners are looking for. No fuss, no pretension, just good food and service that encourages friendly, relaxed dining. “One of the most satisfying things about The Forge,” says Tim “is that our suppliers, farmers and winemakers are also our customers”.

The Forge Pizzeria at 14 Armstrong Street North, Ballarat is open Monday to Sunday noon to 10pm, while the Alfredton restaurant is open Monday to Friday noon to 9pm and 4.30 to 9pm weekends. For more details, visit www.theforgepizzeria.com.au

RICOTTA AND PINENUT TORTELLINI WITH BURNT BUTTER AND SAGE SAUCE RICOTTA MIX 200g ricotta 20g toasted pine nuts 1 lemons (zest only) 25g chopped parsley Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Set aside in fridge.

PASTA 5 whole eggs 500g flour Drizzle of olive oil Additional flour, pasta machine, rolling pin, circle cutter and pan.

Pour flour onto bench and make a well and pour eggs into the middle, mix in with fork or fingertips. Fold additional flour to make a ball and knead for 8-10 minutes. Cut in half and glad wrap.

PROCESS Step 1 Roll out pasta ball and feed through pasta machine on highest setting. Rolling down two settings at a time to half thickness, and then fold over dough to strengthen. Use flour on bench so dough doesn’t stick. Repeat twice.

Step 2 Roll out pasta dough (two settings at a time) to setting number two.

Step 3 Use a circle cutter to cut tortellini shapes. Place 10g of ricotta mix in the middle of circle, wet one side of the circle and fold over to make a half moon shape. Grab edges and pull around joining them together to make tortellini.

COOKING Bring hot water to the boil. Place 5 portions of the tortellini in and cook for 3 – 4 minutes.

SAUCE Heat pan on high setting. Add butter and sage and singe until sauce is a nut-brown colour.

Squeeze in half a zested lemon, add tortellini and season with salt and pepper. Grate with grana padano or parmesan over the top and serve.

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TWO GREAT DINING DESTINATIONS Creswick’s Farmers Arms Hotel is an historical pub that was built in the gold rush era and let’s be honest, in latter years it looked and felt like it hadn’t moved very far into the twenty first century. Not so today – new owner Christine Molloy has turned the old Farmers into a sophisticated and modern hotel with an emphasis on top quality pub and bistro dishes. It has to be said that the dining now at the Farmers has added another dimension to Creswick’s growing reputation for good food and service. The extensive wine and beer list adds to the appeal of this very tastefully and well thought out “watering hole”.

Emphasising ‘nose to tail’ in house butchery, the Farmer’s Arms will soon be adding a new display area where patrons can see how meat is aged. Another feature of this revamped hotel is the concrete bar. It was born from an idea of Christine’s and the project manager.

Chris said “I wanted a large horseshoe bar and planned it on the floor with masking tape. It took five weeks to form without any joins and the concrete was all poured at once.” Chris added, “It was a lot of hard work and trouble, but well worth it despite tears, yelling and near breakdowns”.

amazing and loyal team in both venues. Head chef at the Drop as it is known colloquially, Hugh Maxwell is building toward gaining a chef’s hat, which will further enhance Perfect Drop’s reputation as a dining destination. The menus at both venues are built on using the freshest regional produce including from their own kitchen gardens.

Looking forward Christine sees that both The Farmer’s Arms and Perfect Drop will provide a choice between the more relaxed, but quality pub style meals of The Farmer’s Arms with the high end dining that Perfect Drop is famous for. It’s not easy running two busy and popular hospitality venues, but if passion and dedication are any indication of things to come, then Christine and her team are well and truly on the right track.

Christine, who also owns Daylesford’s very popular restaurant, Perfect Drop is passionate about hospitality and feels her background in Human Services has helped to create an

FARMER’S ARMS HOTEL CRESWICK Pub, dining, music.

Nose to tail/in-house butchery.

Live music weekends.

Open 7 days.

Albert St. Creswick – 5345 2221 www.farmersarmscreswick.com

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PERFECT DROP Daylesford’s boutique Restaurant and Wine Bar. Fine dining, local, organic & seasonal produce.

Howe St. Daylesford 03 5348 1100 www.theperfectdrop.com

Mon/Tue 4pm till late Fri to Sun noon till late

FINE FOODS FROM SPRINGMOUNT When you pickle anything that stands still long enough, it isn’t unreasonable to turn that passion into a business. Carmel Masterson along with husband Brett, set up Springmount Fine Foods in order to develop their abundant ideas into a range of delicious fruit pastes, condiments, relishes, sauces and other products using ingredients mostly grown on their property at Springmount. Carmel and Brett have only been operating a few short years, but have already scored “a gong” from the 2016 Australian Food Awards with a silver medal for their apple, lime and black pepper paste. Not bad for a family who relocated from suburban Melbourne as recently as 2010 in search of a self sufficient lifestyle – something they couldn’t find in the city. Neither Carmel or Brett have a background in food, but an overriding passion for creating a range of saleable goodies saw these entrepreneurs starting out by turning a glut of plums from their trees into plum paste, which was followed by quince paste, then quince and ginger and the range kept expanding as their ideas expanded. They had always wanted to grow garlic as a commercial crop, but when Carmel

saw black garlic on an episode of Masterchef and realised that it was a little known, but desirable product they decided to give “it a crack”. “The crack” resulted in a lot of trial and error learning how to process the garlic that needs to be aged in a fermenting oven for forty days and overcoming a huge loss when an entire year’s crop was ruined due to a fault in the oven. However, when it works, the result is outstanding. Black garlic has a very complex flavour, with an unexpected citrus overtone and chefs are starting to sit up and take notice. Not content to sit on their laurels, Carmel and Brett are constantly thinking of and experimenting with new products. “Some of our ideas are a bit quirky, like pickled garlic flowers” says Carmel “and our kids are our best tasters, when they like it, we know we’ve succeeded”. Springmount Fine Foods are available from Cliffy’s Emporium - Daylesford, Goldfields Cheese - Creswick, Captain’s Creek Wines - Blampied, Wilsons Greengrocers and the Olive Grove - Ballarat and you can meet Carmel on the third Saturday of each month at the Creswick Community Market. More details visit www.springmountfinefoods.com.au

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IT’S ALL IN HARCOURT Just minutes from Harcourt and Castlemaine, and a short drive down the road from Bendigo, ASQ Garden & Landscape in Harcourt is conveniently located and offers that little ‘something different’. Set back amongst the trees just off the highway at Harcourt, is a charming plant nursery, inviting café and beautiful butterfly enclosure, all with a stunning range of giftware and homewares.

There is an abundance of plants, pots, garden furniture and creative landscaping ideas, offering a solution to any gardeners’ needs.

A stroll through the delightful garden, with an eye out for something to suit your garden, is most enjoyable on a gorgeous spring day.

Within the nursery is the fully licensed Skydancers café, boasting delicious Veneziano coffee, local wines and ciders, yummy breakfasts, delectable cakes and a wide range of lunch options to suit all tastes.

The seasonal menu and daily specials boast fresh ingredients and delicious choices. It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and take some time out.

The giftware throughout is exquisite and offers a wide range of products from ornaments and jewellery through to wall art and homewares.

From October through to May, the butterfly enclosure is home to an array of beautiful butterflies. These delicate, colourful creatures can be referred to as nature’s flying flowers.

Take the time to watch them dance amongst the blooms, and discover what you can plant in your own garden to attract butterflies at home. With a nursery, delicious food, delightful gifts, a butterfly enclosure, a play area for children, indoor and outdoor seating and ample parking, you could just about spend the day here!

Castlemaine & District FestivalofGardens2016 SilverJubilee

OPEN GARDENS | BIG & SMALL, NATIVE & CLASSICAL, COTTAGE & COUNTRY

2016 IS THE FOURTEENTH BIENNIAL Castlemaine and District Garden Festival. Our Silver Jubilee — our twenty-fifth year.

In that time the Festival has presented hundreds of gardens, open to the public over Cup Week every two years. Alongside classic goldfields gardens are country cottage gardens, gardens in new estates, heritage and community gardens.

JOIN US IN CUP WEEK 2016 and enjoy the beauty of nature’s bounty, as nurtured by our gardeners.

For further information contact the Festival of Gardens at email: castlemainefestivalofgardens@gmail.com or web: www.festivalofgardens.org Supported by: Mount Alexander Shire ASQ Garden & Landscape Supplies Castlemaine Property Group

Melbourne Cup Week 29 Oct to6 Nov 20

FESTIVAL OF GARDENS – 25 YEARS Spring is in the air and there is no better way to enjoy the wonders of nature than visiting the beautiful gardens of Castlemaine and its surrounding districts.

This year Castlemaine celebrates its 25th year of Gardens Festivals. The Festival opens on 29 October and is open each day through to 6 November (Melbourne Cup week). It’s the best bet of the week featuring a glamorous field of spectacular town and country gardens.

Open 7 days a week | Butterfly Garden

There are 20 gardens on display giving you the choice of exquisite town gardens around Castlemaine or the spectacular large country gardens of Barkers Creek, Harcourt, Newstead, Sutton Grange and Taradale. Many of the gardens have plants for sale with some offering morning and afternoon tea. All provide a peaceful surrounding to just meander and relax.

Most gardens are open between 10am and 5pm but not all are open each day. Brochures picturing each garden, their locations and opening times are available from the Castlemaine, Bendigo, Maldon Information Centres, ASQ outlets or can be ordered from the website www.festivaleofgardens.org or by calling 5472 2838.

Proud sponsors of the Castlemaine & District Festival of Gardens

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ART & BEAUTIFUL GARDENS From 22nd October to 20th November weekends will take on a new meaning for the lovers of art and gardens when Mica Grange opens to the public for their Spring Sculpture Exhibition. However, Mica Grange will also open each day of the Castlemaine Festival of Gardens from 29th October to 6th November.

More than 70 small and large creations in a vast range of mediums including copper, stone, bronze, aluminium, steel, wire, tin, ceramics and mosaics, created by eighteen sculptors will be exhibited. Adding to the appeal will be a wide range of garden art, plants and preserves.

The exhibition provides garden and art lovers with ideas on how they can enhance their own gardens through the merging of sculpture, garden art and plants. There is something for everyone and a feature of this year’s garden

Exc ALL lud FAB ing LineRIC $ ns & 15p/ Quil m tba cks

The Village Patch

is the addition to the Fairy Garden of a Fairy Village. Mica Grange sits at the foothills of Mount Alexander with spectacular views and is an ideal location to relax, meander and peruse an unique artistic works in a beautiful garden.

Mica Grange is at Sutton Grange. For further information or Group Tour bookings visit www.micagrange.com.au or call 5474 8262.

MALDON FUDGE & ICE CREAMERY

Over 3000 fabrics in stock, kits, locally handmade quilts, gifts, threads and books.

Machine quilting service also available.

Photo courtesy of Bendigo Regional Tourism

49 High Street, Maldon – 03 5475 2391 email enquiries@villagepatch.com.au Open 6 days, Wed–Mon 10am–5pm Secure online store www.villagepatch.com.au 22

Freshly made on premises using all natural ingredients.

22 High Street, Maldon Open Wednesday to Sunday 11 - 5pm

Fred Smith & Sky - photo Geoffrey Dunn

Jodi Martin

MALDON FOLKIE, BIGGER AND BETTER The Maldon Folk Festival is happening again in 2016 from 28th to 31st October. It’s remarkable that this event has been running for more than four decades and still manages to entertain visitors from all over Australia and beyond. This is an event that isn’t held in just one venue in the town – the town itself is the venue, with music, dance, interactive workshops and various activities around the Maldon township. The list of performers is extensive – far too many to list here, however with over thirty acts, across three stages over four days the potential to have a rip roaring time is very real indeed.

This year sees Fred Smith return to Maldon with a new book, The Dust of Uruzgan, recently published by Allen and Unwin. Dust of Uruzgan is a collection of songs Fred wrote

Vanilla Spice

For all things Christmas and more!

Open all year round Wednesday to Sunday and most public holidays. Online shopping and laybys welcome. www.vanillaspice.com.au

while working as a tribal and political advisor alongside Australian Forces in Uruzgan Province for two years. This remarkable songwriter reveals influences from Paul Kelly via Lou Reed to Loudon Wainwright III to Leonard Cohen. His dual career as songwriter and diplomat in war zones from Bougainville to Afghanistan was the subject of an Australian Story documentary. He will be appearing at this year’s festival with his band presenting his acclaimed Dust of Uruzgan show as well as a lighter set!”

For more details of the extensive programme, visit the website where you can pre-purchase tickets and as they are limited in number, it might be an idea to get online now. www.maldonfolkfestival.com

Wicked Temptations Café / Wine Bar Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Gourmet Coffee & Cakes Open Wednesday to Sunday

Royal Hotel Complex - 18 High Street Maldon

www.wickedtemptations.net.au

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F

28 – ri

50 ACTS 12 VENUES 4 DAYS

Mon 31 O CT

Enjoy more than 50 acts, across 12 venues, over 4 big days in the heritage town of MALDON, CENTRAL VICTORIA. Let the music take your heart to the hills and your feet to the beat, while making great friends along the way!

With… Martyn Wyndham-Read (UK) * Joe Quinn (UK, Scotland) * Fred Smith * Jodi Martin (SA) * Greg Champion * Sal Kimber & The Rollin’ Wheel * Cat Canteri * Claymore * The Haywood Billy Goats * The Capitalist Pigs * The Mae Trio * Woody’s World and so many more.

www.maldonfolkfestival.com

HERITAGE UNCORKED IS BACK FRIDAY 7 AND SATURDAY 8 OCTOBER 2016 The winemakers of Bendigo create unique and spectacular wine and food events to showcase the best of Bendigo wine, food and grand gold rush architecture.

After cancelling last year’s Heritage Uncorked due to unrelated protests scheduled for the same weekend in the city, Bendigo Winegrowers Association President Wes Vine said “This year’s events are like nothing patrons have experienced before with two wine events on one weekend that will showcase sixteen wineries, more than seventy wines, nine venues and regionally inspired food.”

Bendigo Heritage After Dark on Friday 7 October will be held at Fortuna Villa where patrons get to see inside the 146 year old building while sampling the region’s fine wines and food.

The Bendigo Heritage Uncorked event on Saturday 8th, allows patrons to easily stroll between eight venues in Central Bendigo, sampling wines and food along the way. This year Bendigo Bank has come on board as our Principal Sponsor,” said Mr Vine. Tickets are available from the Bendigo Visitor Centre on 1800 813 153 or www.bendigotourism.com

A Touch of Class Step back in time to an era of elegance and decadence, into the Golden Age of rail travel, when the journey was just as important as the destination Our first class carriages offer a unique rail experience complete with cosy compartments, open lounges and fully equipped bar. Enjoy a drink or snack served by our Stewards, while you simply sit back and relax. Ride on the observation platform on our parlour car, let the world drift by as you leave behind the hum-drum of modern life and experience a taste of true decadence during your leisurely journey.

The Authentic Steam Railway Linking Castlemaine and Maldon Trains run on Sundays and Wednesdays as well as selected Saturdays and public holidays throughout the year.

www.VGR.com.au info@vgr.com.au

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A CHARMING FAMILY DAY OUT If you’ve ever been to a Steiner school fair, you’ll know they offer a certain charm not found at most events providing ‘kids activities’.

If the thought of natural play spaces, creative, engaging children’s activities and a warm welcoming atmosphere appeal, perhaps you should make your way to Castlemaine Steiner School Spring Fair in November.

Wander the native gardens surrounding mud brick classrooms to discover explorative activities such as gold panning, wooden boat building, tie-dyeing and candle making.

Old fashioned fun is found at the Coconut Shy, Dunking Tank, pony and tractor rides.

Swathed in delightful handmade bunting with artistic hand-painted signs, enjoy delicious, nourishing, home cooking in a range of indoor and outdoor café spaces, including a relaxing Chai Tent.

If you have littler ones in tow, seek out The Children’s Garden, where they’ll be happily engaged in puppet shows, hunting for crystals, making bread, bubble fun and fountain play.

For those early Christmas gifts, choose unique handmade treasures and playthings from the school Craft Stall and peruse the marketplace.

An impressive display of student art and craft work highlights the focus on creativity Steiner education provides. Take the opportunity to visit the classrooms and talk to teachers if you’d like to know more about the school.

This year the Art and Craft Exhibition will be open to the public on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after the Fair. Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten Spring Fair - Saturday 5 November 2016 - 10am – 3pm, Pyrenees Highway, Muckleford

Delightful children’s activities Artisan marketplace Delicious food, coffee & chai tent White elephant stall Crafts & plants, Live music

10am - 3pm SAT, NOVEMBER www.cssk.vic.edu.au

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Visit our ART & CRAFT Exhibition at the fair or from Mon 7th - Wed 9th

11 Rilens Road, Muckleford via Castlemaine

WINE & FOOD EVENT For a weekend like never before join in the fun at Heritage After Dark and Heritage Uncorked. In 1 weekend you’ll meet 16 wine makers, sample from more than 50 wines and 7 gourmet food experiences in 9 stunning historic venues.

Bendigo region wines, inspired food and grand gold rush architecture.

Heritage After Dark, Friday 7 October, $60 Heritage Uncorked, Sat 8 October, $120

Book now at www.bendigotourism.com or 1800 813 153 Principal sponsor:

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Supporters:

THE RIGHT BUILDINGS FOR TOMORROW Leaving a successful career in the corporate world to strike out to set up your own business takes some courage, especially when this coincides with moving to the country and getting married. Matthew Turner did just that three years ago when he established Enduring Domain Building Designs and hasn’t regretted it. Having worked as part of professional teams designing large scale multi-use projects, Matt found his deep seated passion for creating different building designs he’d seen around the world that used whatever was on hand and fitted the values of cultures and aesthetic relevance wasn’t being met. He also found that working for others didn’t give him the chance to explore the possibility of creating the best buildings for our environment, especially appropriate buildings that will be our heritage of tomorrow.

Matt is also passionate about designing healthy homes that are warm, light filled, energy efficient and where people will love and cherish the home where they will raise their families. Matt works with his clients taking on the onerous tasks of gaining planning permits and guiding them through the processes of bushfire issues, living off the grid, water tanks, solar installations and other issues often overlooked by owner builders that can create issues in the future. In many cases, Matt project manages the building process, which allows his clients to get on with their

lives, while all the time consuming and often confusing tasks are handled professionally and efficiently.

Matt strongly believes that in Australia we can be doing much better in building design.

Looking into the future, he would like to take on large scale commercial projects designing healthy buildings that are economical to run and exemplary low energy places in which to work. In so doing, Matt feels he can leave a legacy for future generations. Enduring Domain Building Design 66 Albert St. Creswick www.enduringdomain.com.au

Dedicated to creating inspired spaces by using appropriate materials, technology and strategies.

building design www.enduringdomain.com.au matt@enduringdomain.com.au

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By Lyndall McQuinn

SPRING ASTROLOGY Virgo dark moon on the very 1st of September with an eclipse and Mercury retrograde marks a Spring entry with a difference. Virgo affects the earth, our food and health so maybe our resolve for Spring is fitness, food and a health perspective.

VIRGO Mercury stopped on 29 degrees Virgo, and after a brief dance with Venus and Jupiter on the same degrees, it will back track over Virgo until early Oct. Mercury Retrograde gets bad press, as the communication processes seem to revert back over themselves. Delays and disruptions are usually the result.

This affects us all but especially Virgo as it is occurring in your sign. So going over the planning processes may well be the result; more details in a state of flux.

LIBRA Both Venus and Jupiter through your sign is a blast. Big is beautiful and Jupiter will take up residence for all of Spring and beyond. So Libra; Venus enhances all the beauty in your life over September and asks what do you desire? Jupiter expands on all levels, mentally, emotionally and psychically so molehills become mountains and pots of gold can multiply.

SCORPIO Scorpio you never miss out in Spring and the highlight in your sign is the dark moon in Scorpio on Halloween or Samhein. The dark moon ends and releases old patterns and the Scorpio ritual time of Samhein is usually a time to talk to the ancestors of the past. So clear up the debris, dig out the lost threads of the past and prepare to reweave on the Taurus full moon on November 14.

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SAGITTARIUS Mars is still misbehaving, after drowning us with deep rage and manipulative action all through winter, you would think it would kick up its heels and create speedy adventures in Sagittarius but it bumps into Saturn at Spring’s beginning and has to contend with frustrating circumstances hindering our progress. Just wait a second; by October things should be back on track. Late Spring is where bursts of energy are available.

CAPRICORN Apart from those of you born on the 5 and 6th of January: where life can seem to be pressing a point of some kind and can’t hear you screaming “I’ve got it”; Capricornians. can really be realizing their ambitions. October is a treat as things flow and let you take the lead, just as you like it. No need to fear burn out as this energy will lessen in mid November. You always love hard work and now is the time. There may be the odd power clash late November, which may be the omen to take the foot off the pedal AQUARIUS Where are you? Life seems to be off the radar. Harmonious vibes flow from the big thinking, big loving Jupiter in Libra. Unexpected and exciting disruptions are opportunistic from Uranus in Aries. Saturn in Sagittarius offers grounding in travel options. But will you take any of this up? Your call.

PISCES A Full Moon eclipse in Pisces Sept 16/17 brings you back into focus.

Enough lack of clarity, time to look at the facts and move forward. For Pisceans born end Feb and early March life may seem unclear and in need of redefining, maybe the Sept 16 conglomerate helps. For other Pisceans, those born Mar 11 to 16;

progress can be made by taking up the issues; confronting the demons and addressing what is unwanted and unsaid.

checks that you may not receive graciously. Allow the other to help as action is good and at present it can be confusing to see the pathways.

ARIES Some of you are still benefitting from Uranus rolling your life along at a rapid rate toward liberation; it may feel like a bouncy ride but boy the results will be different. Jupiter will beam on you all from Libra across the wheel and that may offer opportunities from new relationships that come into your life.

Saturn too, can be lending a hand by helping stabilize and structure advents.

So not particularly stable but surprising is the Arien Spring.

CANCER September’s full moon eclipse in Pisces may add an emotional overload onto an already emotional abundance for you. Life may be awash at present especially for Cancerians born around July 6 to 9 where intense encounters with others may have you stretched to the limit. Cancer has an instinct for emotional situations so use your intuition as you deal with healing, confusing and maybe deceptive circumstances.

TAURUS Your full moon on November 14 is a marker for how things are going. Time to take stock. You have had Jupiter and Pluto in earth signs as well, which combined offered powerful energy to be taken up by you if you managed to grab hold of it. Jupiter has moved off and a stocktake would be good now. No adversity is coming your way so everything depends on discerning what are realistic opportunities and what is the dross.

LEO Leo is in two minds. Whilst there is nothing that one can put your finger on that could be an issue; there is a disruptive aspect to the things you arrange. They don’t quite go to plan.

One moment everything is progressing rapidly in exciting new directions then it swings back causing you to take reality checks on the validity of the actions. Opportunities may come in from diplomatic others, but check the details.

GEMINI This Spring can be a time of expansion for you, but whether you see it as an opportunity or more responsibility will depend on your mind space. The role of the other can be to give reality

Lyndall McQuinn

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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Secrets Magazine would like to hear from our readers who areinterested in participating in an upcoming event and one of our stories for summer. Secrets Women’s Business Expo – 25th & 26th March, 2017, will be held at The Tangled Maze at Springmount, near Creswick. This is a two-day event for women to discover ways to reach their own potential,

hear how others have made the journey and explore pathways to health and wellbeing. A prospectus detailing site plan, exhibitor space and speaker guidelines will be available from the end of September.

Bruce Springsteen is returning for his Australian tour from January, 2017 and once again, Hanging Rock will host one concert only. Were you a fan of The Boss in the eighties-still love his music? We think it would be fun to find out. Give us a call on 03 5345 7260 or email secrets@knowersark.com.au

Sea Flower Necklet Delicately hand cut sterling silver flowers, hang on pink coral beads.

Studio 29, Newbridge 5438 7315 sarahgrant.com.au

For unique handcrafted jewellery, Sarah can be found at The Castlemaine Artist’s market and Maldon market.

MARKETS

WOODEND COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET High Street, Woodend 1st Saturday of the month 9am - 1pm Phone 0487 444 090 Call us on 5345 7260 to get your market listed here.

GISBORNE OLDE TIME MARKET

First Sunday of every month 9am to 2pm

Aitken & Hamilton Street Service Roads, Gisborne. Over 280 stalls of quality goods.

0431 563 566 info@gisborneoldetimemarket.org.au www.gisborneoldetimemarket.org.au

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Every 4th Saturday of the month.

Enquiries: 0407 860 320

VIN RYAN SIGNS OF STRUGGLE until Sat 24 SEP 2016

Vin Ryan, 21.10.15, 2015 (detail) 35 x 45cm digital print Courtesy the artist Michelle Zuccolo Self Portrait, 2016 (detail) oil on canvas 40 x 60cm

MICHELLE ZUCC0LO FROM FLESH & BONE 28 SEP to 23 OCT 2016

DAVID FERRY THE INVADER’S GUIDE TO THE BRITISH ISLES

26 OCT to 19 NOV 2016

David Ferry Standing Form No 3, 2015 (detail) Public Sculpture in England series 2015/16 digital archive print with stencil & varnish with gold leaf 594 x 841mm Courtesy the artist and Booklyn, Brooklyn, NY.

federation.edu.au/pogallery

www.secretsmagazine.com.au