Tourist News Summer 2015

Touristnews Yarra Valley, the Dandenongs and the Ranges

SUMMER 2015 free

life is a

Highway

warburton

trail beautiful

Sassafras summer

play

SUMMER is here again‌

P Puffing Billy travels through the magnificent forests and th fern gullies of the fe Dandenong Ranges.

D D Dangle your legs over the si side of the Excursion Train or tr travel first class aboard the d daily ‘Steam & Cuisine L Luncheon Train’, which o offers a delicious new menu (b (bookings essential).

Buy tickets online

1206026-KK51-15

Australia's Favourite Steam Train

1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave, VIC 3160 email: info@pbr.org.au

Telephone: (03) 9757 0700 www.puffingbilly.com.au/touristnews

Warratina Lavender Farm Lavender Time: November to February

Warratina • Lavender harvest time: November to January • Lavender processing: December to February • Christmas parties.

Bookings required • Wide range Xmas gifts available • Garden walks • Tea Room daily specials • New Summer menu • Catering for Special occassions

HARVEST SEASON NOVEMBER - JANUARY

Come and see the breathtaking fields of blooming lavender!

See traditional harvesting methods, visit the lavender drying shed, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. Visit the Lavender Cottage Tea Rooms & enjoy lavender scones plus lavender ice‐cream!

1203269-DJ48-15

Open from 9-5 Wed to Mon Closed Tuesdays & Christmas Day only Enquiries: Ph 03 5964 4650 www.warratinalavender.com.au 105 Quayle Road, Wandin Yallock, Mel ref: 121 F1

2 SUMMER 2015

Warratina Lavender Farm 105 Quayle Road, Wandin Yallock 3139 All enquiries please call 03 5964 4650

www.warratinalavender.com.au

Touristnews

contents

Summer lovin’ top spots HELLO and welcome to our 48-page bumper edition of Tourist News.

We at Tourist News love all seasons in the Yarra Ranges, but there is something a little special about summer, isn’t there?

Most likely because it’s a great time to spend with your loved ones and get out there and explore the wider region.

The Yarra Ranges is often listed as one of the country’s must-see tourist destinations and it’s calling your name this summer.

With so many options at your fingertips, why wouldn’t you take up the offer.

To help you lock in a fun-packed itinerary, we’ve prepared a whole host of options.

Just for starters, we’ve looked closely at all the hot-spots you should never drive past.

We have sourced and presented to you the best places to stop and enjoy along the Valley’s three major highways, the Maroondah, Melba and Warburton.

Then, there is the amazingly beautiful Dandenong Ranges, with countless options served up in the towns of Sassafras, Kallista and more.

We’ve tried to include all those little places in between, which may help with the summer school holidays, such as local parks and skate parks, not to mention the many beloved swimming spots.

But we haven’t forgotten country racing, the wineries and the office favourite, U-pick.

So, whatever you have planned, make the most of it and explore the best of the Yarra Ranges.

Delve into this summer and try something new.

Peter Douglas Editor

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Car shows

4 17

Country races

8 16

6

Five reasons to visit Kallista Markets

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Skate Parks

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Summer Play

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Tourist News directory

44

Trees adventure

28 36-37

Wineries

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, THE DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES

SUMMER 2015 FREE

life IS A

HIGHWAY

WARBURTON

trail beautiful

SASSAFRAS

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SUMMER

play

SUMMER is here again…

41 Editor Peter Douglas Mail News Group Phone: 5957 3711 Email: editor@mailnewsgroup.com.au Advertising Tracey Aitken Mail News Group 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777 Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777 Email: tracey.aitken@mailnewsgroup.com.au

Touristnews

Calendar

cover:

‘Lily Fairy’ Kimberley is magical as she sits among the lily pads at Blue Lotus Water Gardens.

Picture: Kath Gannaway Design Mark Dinnie Star News Group Creative Services Department Cnr Princes Hwy & Army Rd, Pakenham 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 Published by Mail News Group Pty Ltd 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777 PO Box 470 Managing Director Paul Thomas SUMMER 2015 3

car shows

Classic chrome

on show

Victoria’s BEST BACON

Located at Lilydale Airport 13 MacIntyre Lane, Yering Vic Phone: 03 9397 6005 Email: admin@jamcogroup.com.au Website www.jamcoaviation.com.au Open from 9am – 5pm 7 days a week – weather permitting

2005-2012

Top Butcher Steve & Shane Tel: 5962 5071

1192585-RC37-15

JamCo Helicopters is the only Helicopter Service operating from the Yarra Valley and we provide a high level of service in the training and Charter Flight sectors. See the Yarra Valley and Mount Dandenong from the air and truly get a birds eye view of this most beautiful area. We offer a range of scenic flights ranging from 9 minutes up to 45 mins and pricing from only $140 minimum 2 passengers.

Victoria’s BEST SAUSAGES 2011-2012

Victoria’s BEST CABANA 2009-2010

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By KATH GANNAWAY THE Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges has plenty of horsepower to get your engines revving over summer.

If the glint of sunlight hitting the chrome of a classic Chrysler makes your heart skip a beat, or the rumble of a magnificent old Indian makes you want to take to the road, you’ll be in your element at any one of the region’s popular summer car shows.

Car and bike shows, along with car club rallies, bring thousands of people into the region each summer, and while there’s a lot of under the bonnet turbo gazing, spit and polish, and swapping stories of piston passion at these events, you don’t have to be a petrol-head.

Wandin Custom Car and Bike Show Wandin East Reserve Wednesdays - 16 December, 20 January, 17 February and 16 March 6pm - 9pm Contact: Cindy 0423 354 217 Black Saturday Remembrance Cruise Lilydale to Healesville Railway Precinct Saturday, 6 February 3pm from Lilydale/4pm at Healesville Contact: Stacey 0421 321 203 or visit the facepage blacksaturdayremembrancecruise Monbulk Late Night Shopping Cruise Main Street, Monbulk Wednesdays - 10 December, 13 January, 10 February and 9 March 6pm - 9pm Contact: Jacqueline 9737 9660

Winner State Championship 209 Maroondah Hwy For Best Bacon & Sausages 2005, 2009, 2011 & 2012 Healesville Vic. 3777

Marriage Vows Renewal of Vows & Commitment Ceremonies Name Giving t | 8761 6496 m | 0407 257 282 e | kayemcgrath@bigpond.com.au w | kayemcgrath.com.au

Kaye McGrath Civil Marriage Celebrant

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4 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

Hospitality, Delicious FooD & state

R e s tau R a n t

2011 WinneR "Rooms

oF tHe

and

art Venue

oF tHe

R e s o Rt m ot e l

Ron goding aWaRd

FoR

business excellence

aRe exceptionally clean, RestauRant & Reception is built like a banquet Hall" The Age Editorial “tHe best ResoRt motel in Healesville & tHe yaRRa valley” The Telegraph Newspapers editorial

Fine cHeFs - a la caRte, kids

and vegetaRian

5962 5148

menus

 Special Wedding Packages Available

• 24 high standard accommodation units 3.5 and 4 star.

• Catering for memorable occasions, weddings, birthdays and conferences, with menus to suit your taste and budget.

• Special Seniors Day Shows last Thursday of the month, 2 course lunch and live entertainment. Bookings essential.

Celebrating 13 years of great hospitality under the same family management. rateS for groupS, organiSationS bookingS eSSential

&

community clubS

5962 5148

326 Badger Creek Road, HEALESVILLE e: info@sanctuaryhouse.com.au www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au SERVING TOURISM & THE COMMUNITY

1184099-LN26-15

Special

KalliSta

5

1

2

REASONS Sherbrooke Falls

TO VISIT KalliSta WHILE travelling through the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges, visitors can’t go past Kallista and Sherbrooke for afternoon tea and a gentle stroll through their delightful landscapes.

By jodie symonds

3

Kallista Tea Rooms Situated at 103 Monbulk Road, Kallista, this delightful licensed cafe offers more than just great tasting tea. Its food is sourced from local suppliers and visitors are able to enjoy some great food from its seasonal menus while enjoying the picturesque landscape that is Kallista.

There’s nothing more peaceful than walking through the Sherbrooke Falls and breathing in that crisp yet refreshing summer air. This gentle walk will be sure to have visitors feeling relaxed and invigorated. The trail begins at Sherbrooke Picnic Ground on Sherbrooke Road and winds past rough and small tree ferns to finish at the outstanding Sherbrooke Falls.

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Grants Picnic Ground Part of Sherbrooke Forrest, Grants Picnic Ground could be the perfect hideout for a beautiful picnic with family and friends. Located on Monbulk Road in Kallista, this fantastic picnic spot is home to some colourful friends including crimson rosellas, sulphur crested cockatoos and pink galahs which are always ready for a feed. This is the perfect spot to chill out and take in the atmosphere. Grants on Sherbrooke is nearby for a tasty meal.

George Tindale Gardens Kallista Deli This small deli is packed full of delicious food. With its delicious recipe, which ranges from cakes to focaccias, visitors won’t leave hungry. The parade of shops beside the deli at 78 Monbulk Road is draped in stunning wisteria.

These gardens are big in size and big in character. Hidden away in the Dandenong Ranges, exotic trees, shrubs, a wide array of flowers and the occasional sculpture all feature at the George Tindale Gardens on Mount Dandenong Road. The winding paths and beautiful views are a sure way to de-stress.

Aka Chocolate Sensation Makers of quality cakes, pastries, sour dough and coffee. We also provide catering options and a full breakfast and lunch menu from 6am to 2pm.

1/1700 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Open 7 days, 6am to 10pm Ph: 9754 1174 www.theblacksmith.com.au

6 SUMMER 2015

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New gourmet burger bar now open Wednesday through Saturday evening to 10pm

Touristnews

barista profile

Brad knows his coffee

By JESSE GRAHAM AFTER a decade in hospitality, Healesville’s Brad Beazley knows coffee.

Starting out in a small cafe in the town’s main street while at high school, Brad worked as a waiter before training with coffee company Lavazza as a barista.

Fast forward 10 years, and Brad has spent two and a half years at his current workplace, a little laneway-style cafe called Essenza.

He said his family was also involved in the hospitality industry, which made him want to dip his toes in and try it for himself.

“It’s really good - like everything, it has its ups and downs,” he said.

“My goal is probably to stay in hospitality, it’s what I’m good at.”

A typical day at work for Brad sees him start at about 7.30am, setting up for an 8am opening - then making coffees, serving customers and preparing food until service begins to wind down after 5pm.

“It’s busy,” he said, sitting on the cafe’s long wooden benches, about to have a morning cappuccino.

“And that’s probably what I thrive on - I thrive on business, being able to make everyone satisfied and enjoy their time, while also having 5/11/2012 a high level of service.”

Brad said there were a Golf number of local New - Warburton Club adfaces for that regularly came through the door, as well as many fresh faces from visitors or first-time 2012 Summer edition of Tourist News customers.

“We’ve got sort-of a select group that we know is always going to

come in, and we know them quite well, and it’s good to actually know 120mm deep x 90mm wide that,” he said.

“We actually go out of our way to make them feel at home, and see how their day’s been and what they’re doing.

Healesville barista, Brad Beazley.

Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

“We even tell them to go up to the sanctuary or to check out the Maroondah Dam, if they’re heading up that way - some of the attractions they might not know.”

Asked what he would recommend to non-coffee drinkers, Brad said a latte is a safe bet.

“I normally say a latte, because it’s an easy one to drink - it’s milky, you still get a nice flavour through the milk as well, and it’s very smooth,” he said.

“Normally, I just drink a doppio - a double-shot espresso. When I have milk, I prefer a latte.”

He said a good coffee wasn’t just well-textured milk, or a good crema (the thick golden layer on top of a coffee shot), but everything working in unison.

“It’s everything - it’s all little bits,” he said.

“You’ve got to get every bit right to make a good coffee - the milk has to be creamy, the crema has to be right, and it has to be foamed properly out of the machine.”

Brad is just one of the many baristas working behind counters of cafes through the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, each with their own stories - and coffee recommendations!

Warburton

GOLF CLUB

Licensed Cafe . Function Centre

Bring this advert for 2-for-1 green fees. Bookings essential.

Limited to 2 people per advert

PH: 03 5966 2306 E:warbygolf@bigpond.com www.warburtongolf.com.au Touristnews

1206618-PB48-15

Order online at www.easterncleaningsupplies.com.au

1204427-CG51-15

Play 9 or 18 holes of inspiring golf, then relax inside with great food, Yarra Valley wines and local organic ‘Silva coffee’!

The golfing is always great at Warburton.

The hills, the streams, the tees and greens make every hole a treat to play.

Carts and clubs available for hire.

Open for Dinner every Thursday.

Tourists, friends families are always welcome.

YOUR LOCAL ONE STOP CLEANING SUPPLIERS Or phone us on 0397 614 252 FREE DELIVERY* CONDITIONS APPLY ON ORDERS uNDER $50 SUMMER 2015 7

For a

shady escape

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS IN THE summer heat the Dandenong Ranges offer the perfect shady escape under the canopy of gumtrees and ferns.

If lying about in the shade of the trees isn’t your speed, then Trees Adventure offers a whole different tree-based experience.

Get off the ground and get up into some rare exotic trees with Australia’s premier treetop adventure ropes experience.

Leap, jump and fly between trees high up in the canopy of the roped courses and flying foxes at Trees Adventure in Glen Harrow Gardens Belgrave.

Open seven days a week with only thunderstorms stopping the fun, Trees Adventure provides the ultimate summer activity for intrepid tree climbers of all ages.

Botanists will also get a kick out of visiting Glen Harrow Gardens for the range of exotic trees and plants in the reserve such as the Algerian Oak, Sequoia, Conifer, Chinquapin, and Himalayan Lily.

As a special Christmas treat, Trees Adventure will be hosting the First Treetop Aerial Show in Melbourne for a very exclusive five shows only between 18 and 22 December.

Aerial circus performers will bring the treetops to life with deathdefying skills including swinging on silks, wheels, straps and more.

Belgrave’s own Grunge Cafe will be supplying food and snacks for purchase during the show, or you can bring a picnic basket and set yourself up with your favourite nibbles.

If staying in the shade but safely on the ground is more your style, then be sure to take a drive up to SkyHigh Mount Dandenong.

A breathtaking dining experience with beautifully landscaped gardens and a hedged maze, SkyHigh is a more low-key family escape from the summer heat.

Lose yourself in the SkyHigh maze that offers a secret and shady escape filled with sculptures, illusions and butterflies.

The Dandenong Ranges are a horticultural delight for anyone and these are only two of the many delights awaiting visitors to the Hills.

8 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

volunteer profile

Best sights to see

from those in the know

Creek and the Redwood Forest at East Warburton taking video footage.

Q. What are the top five ‘must see’ attractions?

A. La La Falls, the Redwood Forest, Mount Donna Buang Tower, Boinga Bob’s House and the Big and Little Peninsula Tunnels.

Q. What is the question you are asked most often?

A. Is there any snow on Donna Buang even in the middle of summer. Next is do you have any accommodation in the middle of Easter or Christmas, and you know there just isn’t any.

A. Undoubtedly, Riverview Cafe.

Q. Where is the best location for a romantic dining experience?

A. Oscars on the River at Warburton.

• Wedding Packages Available •

Warburton Water Wheel Visitor Information Centre.

A VISIT to Grants on Sherbrooke is always a pleasure.

Located in the Dandenong Ranges this well known refreshment icon has catered to tourists and locals since the 1950s. Owner/operators, Cheryl and Geoff Campbell completed refurbishments late in 2005 doubling the size of the original building.

Grants specialise in Australian seasonal cooking and guests can dine in air conditioned comfort indoors or by the cosy log fire in winter. In summer, guests can dine alfresco among the natural bush setting.

Browse in the Gift Shop, which has one of the largest ranges of quality Australiana Gifts and Souvenirs east of Melbourne.

Our services include: • New Menu • Licensed Café • Functions - from 15 to 120 guests • Devonshire Tea

John Lumsden-Keys.

Picture: KATH GANNAWAY

Q. What is the best place for a coffee and a quick bite?

1057586-SH10-13

By KATH GANNAWAY Our Visitor Information Centres are the first stop for visitors looking for the best of everything.

At Tourist News, we often tap into the passion and knowledge of the staff and volunteers to find out what’s on and where, and what people want to see and do.

John Lumsden-Keys has been a volunteer at the Warburton Water Wheel Visitor Information Centre for three years and he says one of the greatest rewards is when a visitor walks out the door with a smile on their face and a ‘thank you’.

We put our ‘profile’ questions to John.

Q. What’s the Warburton Valley’s best hidden treasure?

A. The aqueduct trail from Warburton to Millgrove.

Q. What’s your ideal day out in the Yarra Ranges?

A. Walking the Aqueduct Trail, Cement

The floor to ceiling windows in the restaurant allow patrons to view the natural Australian bushland with rosellas, kookaburras, lyrebirds, cockatoos, wallabies and even the occasional echidna wandering around. Grants is the only place in Victoria where visitors are permitted to hand feed the native birds. 9am to 5pm in feeding area only.

• Extensive Range of Gifts & Australiana Souvenirs • Light Meals • Cosy Log Fire • Take-Away Food • Indoor and Alfresco Dining

• Events • Disabled Facilities and Access • Open 7 days 9am to 5pm • Evenings by arrangement

Grants Picnic Ground • 70 Monbulk Road, Kallista • Phone 9755 2888 Melways Ref 75K4 www.grantsonsherbrooke.com.au Touristnews

SUMMER 2015 9

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Proudly Servicing The Public For Over 50 Years At The Upper Ferntree Gully Market

Pellegrino’s FRESH FRUITS WHOLESALE & RETAIL WAREHOUSE

Olinda

FRESH LOCAL FRUIT AND VEGETABLES!

8 Sunset Ave, Olinda

Wantirna 1151 High St Rd, Wantirna South

The Gully Market

SERVICE & QUALITY AT WHOLESALE PRICES!

Every Saturday Railway Car Park Burwood Hwy, Upper Ferntree Gully

Olinda Ph: Paul:0417 593 253 Tony:0417 105 154 10 SUMMER 2015

Warehouse: Ph:9751 0525 Office:9879 0616

Wantirna: Ph: Joesph: 0418 344 621 Ross: 0403 048 146 Touristnews

SASSAFRAS

Mrs Marple''s Tea Rooms are the perfect embodiment of British indulgence.

Picture: VICTORIA STONEMEADOWS

Exploring

Sassafras

Lollies at the Sassafras Sweet Co. Store Picture: VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS ONE of the smaller villages in the Dandenong Rages, Sassafras has a population of just over 1000 people but what it lacks in size it makes up for in magnificent scenery, apetising food and the best scones this side of the English Channel.

Secluded high on the side of the Dandenong Ranges Mountains, Sassafras is based around the junction of the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and the Mountain Highway.

One of the main attractions of Sassafras is Mrs Marple’s Tearoom. With a Devonshire tea that would put your nanna to shame in a setting traditional of Agatha Christie’s novel character Miss Marple.

A purpose built Tudor-style building with Miss Marple memorabilia and even dozens of porcelain teapots, some quite comical, lining the walls of the dining area, it’s a Sassafras experience not to be missed.

After indulging in some of the best food Sassafras has to offer, bushwalks and gardens galore to explore and walk off the scones and jam of a traditional British tea setting.

The Alfred Nicholas Gardens and the George Tindale Memorial Gardens offer beautiful walking tracks with plants that are preserved and cared for in these tranquil retreats.

With flowers in bloom over the summer months, you can escape the heat under the towering tree canopy the gardens provide.

The sweetest part of a visit to Sassafras can be found in the Sassafras Sweet Co. store.

Like walking into the chocolate factory, the Sassafras Sweet Co. Store is a riot of colour, fun and every type of lolly you can imagine.

With so many delicious reasons to visit Sassafras, the trek up the mountain is definitely worth it.

Touristnews

This beautiful archway welcomes visitors into Sassafras Picture: VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS SUMMER 2015 11

Widely acknowledged throughout Melbourne as THE place to go for amazing food!

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Shop 3/372 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sassafras VIC 3787 (03) 9755 2338

Only the best of the best make the shelves inside Cream at Sassafras.

The cream of the crop CREAM at Sassafras is the creation of two exceptionally creative and passionate foodies, Leenah and Mark Johnston.

Featuring only the best in Australian produce, the gourmet pantry and catering company offers something unique to the local food scene, which many customers are discovering and embracing.

The company was born in 2009 after Mark stumbled upon a rarely vacant shop in Sassafras and delved head first into the initiative.

The businesses focuses on regional and boutique Australian producers, and top quality and unique food items for discerning tastebuds.

Mark said it was a dream come true for the husband and wife team, because it combined all their passions.

All products on the shelves go through an extensive screening process, which involves an obligatory meet-and-greet session with the producer.

“If we haven’t met the producer, we won’t stock the item,” he said.

“We are real foodies, we are real passionate about food, we’ve travelled all over Australia to find our food and hand-picked the best of the best.

“It’s truly a love affair, just like I only have one wife and love Leenah, we believe if you love a food or a brand - that’s it, there’s no other for us,” Mark says.

The business comprises numerous aspects, including custom catering, online shopping, picnics and hampers, as well as their good oldfashioned taste-testing and quality service.

Touristnews

M a r k said his customers were like part of an extended family and he encouraged testing and interaction.

Pictured is Mark Johnston with two happy customers.

Customers come from all over Melbourne and regularly visit from overseas.

Cream at Sassafras is regularly featured on 3AW and in other mainstream media.

“You’ve got to know how to treat people and we pride ourselves on that,” he said.

“People are free to taste-test with no obligation to buy.

“Try our cheeses, honey, nuts, trout, whatever you desire.”

Some of their partners are well-known leaders in the field, including Beechworth Honey, Whisk & Pin, Australian Harvest for their hayfever and sinus cure - organic horseradish vinegar and even celebrity author and restaurateur, Maggie Beer.

Cream at Sassafras is located at Shop 3/373 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Sassafras.

For more information, contact (03) 9755 2338 or visit www. creamatsassafras.com.au.

SUMMER 2015 13

Part of the

social fabric

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

WOLFE and Spender has been part of the fabric of Sassafras for years and offer the perfect opportunity to pick up a unique gift to remember your visit to the Dandenong Ranges.

and homewares at Wolfe and Spender.

When you visit Sassafras to take in magnificent scenery, pop in to Wolfe and Spender to say hello to Pat, Sid and Bella at 359 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road.

Wolfe and Spender's “Bella� the dog.

The store is filled with beautiful and unique homewares and gifts of outstanding quality at very affordable prices.

The store is forever changing and adding new products, with a very beautiful collection of Christmas decorations and gifts this December.

Owners Pat and Sid Geer along with their beautiful dog Bella make it their business to warmly welcome everyone who is passing through.

Prior to Wolfe and Spender, Pat and Sid were gift manufacturing wholesale gift importers, so have plenty of experience in buying and supplying great quality products and homewares.

Pat and Sid love having their business in Sassafras and believe there is no other town quite like it.

The Wolfe and Spender Christmas Display.

The wonderful laid-back atmosphere of Sassafras is the ideal setting to browse the collection of gifts, handbags, collectables 1204932-CG46-15

Come in to Wolfe & Spender this summer to see a wide range of beautiful homewears and gifts of a fantastic quality.

9755 1011 14 SUMMER 2015

559A Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sassafras Touristnews

A visit here is a

gift in itself

IF you were a gift or home treat, this is where you’d want to hang out.

Smits and Bits is more a tranquil retreat than a home and gift shop.

A hidden treasure in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, tucked behind old-world shopfronts on the main street of Sassafras.

Stroll underneath the arches down a little alley into an old-fashioned cobble stone courtyard and feel the stress of life ooze out of your mind and body.

Your first gift and you haven’t spent a cent. Speaking of cents, the prices are surprisingly reasonable.

Drift through the three rooms of the gorgeous cottage store, or laze underneath the majestic Vertical Elm tree in the courtyard.

Everywhere you turn, a myriad of curios and gems catch your eye ... personal gifts, home-wares, outdoor and other surprises.

They love antique, Art Deco, retro and anything unique or quirky, hence their motto, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it”.

Most weekends live music shares the backing soundtrack with the melodic birds of Sassafras.

On Sundays and public holidays, you are treated to toasted marshmallows from an open fire in a huge cauldron.

Don’t miss the magical old-fashioned dolls house (1905).

Time evaporates as you explore its little rooms filled with mini delights.

This piece of Australian history originally belonged to Dame Zara Bates, the wife of Prime Minister Harold Holt.

Kids and adults in touch with their inner-child can place their beaming faces through a life-size frame and take pictures of themselves ‘dressed’ from a bygone era.

If that isn’t your Devonshire cup of tea, you can mingle with the lifesize Ned Kelly or Rosie the Giraffe.

Smits and Bits is truly a unique space in a special place.

Retail therapy for all your senses, your health, your soul.

Give yourself the gift.

Smits & Bits

Gifts For Home & Garden

Ph: 9755 2200

381-383 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sassafras, Vic, Aust. www.smitsandbits.com Touristnews

1206038-PB48-15

Open 7 days

SUMMER 2015 15

warburton fun run

They’re up and running

By PETER DOUGLAS FOR the fitness fanatics in the region, summer is when the training regime of the most dedicated heats up.

So what more perfect way to test out all your hard work than through aiming to complete the Warburton Up and Running Fun Run this February.

Set a goal, get running and just watch all that hard toil in the summer months pay off.

The finish line will be more than worth the effort.

So too will be one of the most beautiful, scenic landscapes that you can take in while counting down the kilometres.

Competitors will run alongside the clear waters of the Upper Yarra River, among the towering Mountain Ash forest.

Events include a 2km kids’ run, 5km walk, 10km run and a halfmarathon.

Since its inception, the event, which is run entirely by volunteers, has proven enormously popular among a healthy mix of locals and visitors.

Recent improvements to the running track and introduction of a halfmarathon event and electronic timing have all made the event even more enjoyable for the hundreds who participate each year.

Event co-ordinators are looking forward to breaking last year’s record number of entries, as well as record donations to local organisations.

Through their participation, competitors will be supporting the Warburton CFA and Upper Yarra SES. For something a little different this year, organisers have introduced a new team competition.

This will be an aggregate of the combined total distance run by all members of the team - so times will not be a deciding factor.

All team members will be included and all events will count.

Team members are still eligible for individual prizes.

16 SUMMER 2015

For more information, contact warburtonupandrunning@gmail.com Running tips: ·· Ensure you complete at least 3-4 training sessions before competing, preferably more. ·· Before the run, warm up by stretching correctly then complete a few run-throughs. ·· Ensure you’re wearing correct attire and footwear. ·· Goal setting is paramount to completing a fun run, set a time to break. ·· Make it a social event, include your friends and family. ·· Push yourself but don’t forget to enjoy your run. ·· Most importantly, reward yourself for your efforts.

Touristnews

HIGHWAYS

Seek out locally made cheeses.

The wetlands in the heart of Yarra Glen.

Rural vistas are a feature of the Melba.

Yarra Valley vineyards are a feature of all three highways.

Take to the highways

By KATH GANNAWAY

DECISIONS, decisions ... Melba, Maroondah or Warburton? Or all three?

Fanning out from Lilydale, the three highways of the Yarra Valley are the arteries that pump oxygen into the communities and tourism heart of the region.

The Melba, named after Australia’s original super-star of opera, Dame Nellie Melba, begins at Coldstream where Dame Nellie’s Coombe Cottage is now open to the public as a restaurant and for garden tours.

Winding its way through the some of the district’s first and finest vineyards it takes in Yering, Yarra Glen and on to Dixons Creek and Steels Creek before climbing towards Toolangi and Kinglake.

The Maroondah takes in the farmlands and vineyards from Coldstream to Healesville before snaking its way through the tall timbers of the Black Spur and on to Alexandra. Branch off at Narbethong and you find yourself in the once again beautiful village of Marysville.

The name ‘Maroondah’ comes from the Aboriginal word meaning leaf.

The meaning is most profound as you drive through the Black Spur, surrounded by leafy, green vegetation all-year round.

And, the Warburton Highway. The highway which runs through Touristnews

Find a sunny spot for a coffee among the greenery.

numerous towns from Wandin through to its name-sake town at the end of the line is perhaps the most diverse of the three arterials.

Named after Police Magistrate, Charles Warburton Carr, it continues on as the Warburton-Woods Point Road, to Reefton, McMahon’s Creek and the Upper Yarra Dam. The old railway line from Lilydale through to Warburton is now a 40km long multi-purpose rail trail frequented by locals and visitors alike.

Touted as Victoria’s most accessible and well-used rail trail, it winds its way through bushland, farmland, world-class wineries, forests and numerous townships.

Any of the three highways offers more than enough places of interest to warrant more than a day trip.

For those, however, who don’t have the luxury of a long break in this beautiful part of the world, with an early rise, a good map and a bit of pre-planning, it’s not only achievable, but enjoyable to loop your way along the Warburton, meeting up with the Maroondah at Marysville, then along the Melba through Toolangi and back to base ... wherever that may be.

Don’t be daunted by the distance ... just take to the highway - or highways - and see some of the most magnificent scenery Victoria has to offer.

SUMMER 2015 17

ALONG maroondah highway

Marvellous Maroondah

By KATH GANNAWAY HEALESVILLE township is the epicentre of cafe culture in the Yarra Valley, and as the half-way mark along the Maroondah Highway between Lilydale and the Marysville Triangle towns of Narbethong, Marysville and Buxton, it’s the perfect spot to ‘fuel up’ with a coffee break.

You will find the valley’s two working dairies and many of the big name wineries along the stretch between Coldstream and Healesville and, of course, the premier tourist drawcard to the valley, Healesville Sanctuary is just a short jaunt off the beaten track at Badger Creek.

If you’re planning a longer stay in Healesville, be sure to check out what’s on in film, live music or theatre at The Memo and allow an hour or two for some main street shopping.

Maroondah Dam and Fernshaw Reserve are great places to enjoy a picnic or barbecue and some fun with the kids as you make your way through the picturesque Black Spur, and note Gallipoli Park in Marysville as another park with lots on offer for the family.

Australia Day in Marysville is a huge day of celebration, so work your dates around 26 January in Marysville if you have the option.

The Maroondah Highway over the Black Spur is also recognised as one of the most popular motor bike rides - keep to the 80km limit for a safe, inexpensive ride!

Discover more Maroondah ideas at visityarravalley. com.au.

Cafe culture and great rides.

Great specialty shops.

Back to nature.

18 SUMMER 2015

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Choose from our huge range of deliciously fresh products - any time of the day

Touristnews

ALONG MAROONDAH HIGHWAY

Unwind at

Big Bouquet

Garden tours are available for visitors, to get a behind-the-scenes look at the farm.

Visitors also have the chance to get up close and personal with the alpacas on the farm, with those visiting early next year in for an extra treat - baby alpacas, expected to be born in March.

BETWEEN its flowers and fleecy friends, the Big Bouquet has everything a family needs for a fun day out.

Located in Barak Lane, Healesville, the Big Bouquet features a wholesale gerbera farm and alpaca stud, with 60,000 flowering gerberas on-site all year round.

“It’s always on their terms, but they’re pretty friendly,” Mrs Kerst said.

“They’re currently pregnant, and we’re expecting babies in about March.

Owners Natalie and Sander Kerst, who took over the reins in February, said the farm had a “new lease on life”, with plenty on-ground for people of all ages to enjoy.

“There’s nothing cuter than baby alpacas - they’re gorgeous.”

“We do guided tours, the glasshouse has got about 60,000 flowering gerberas ... there’s gardens, there’s the cafe gift shop, a kid’s playground - it’s a nice family day out,” Mrs Kerst said.

She said the Big Bouquet offered popular group tours and lunch packages for those wanting to explore the grounds and get a behindthe-scenes look at the farm.

“I think it’s the only working cut-flower farm that’s open to the public,” she said.

“It’s very impressive - the scale of it is huge, so it’s something to see.”

In the lead-up to Christmas, Mrs Kerst said the Big Bouquet had gift options available, such as garments made from alpaca fleece, as well as flowers and plants to brighten up the homes of loved ones.

The Big Bouquet started up in 1998, shortly after the the 9000 square metre Dutch glasshouse was built for the gerbera farm - now, the glasshouse stands at about 12,000 square metres.

For more information about the Big Bouquet and its alpaca stud, call 5962 2283, email info@bigbouquet.com.au or visit the grounds on Barak Lane in Healesville.

Healesville Jewellers

Award winning business

...much more than just jewellery

• Onsite manufacturing studio • Retail showroom Meet ally the alpaca and her friends, cliMb on the playground and count how Many different coloured . gerberas you can see.

• Gallery Room

Come and visit our magnificent showroom at 197A Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Telephone: 03 5962 5195 Email: healjewel@bigpond.com Open Mon to Fri 9am-5pm | Weekends 10am-5pm Touristnews

1196679-LB48-15

: ch includes nd a Juice boX. chips a this bring in eM rede adVert to

GERBERA & ALPACA FARM KIDS UNDER 12 TOUR FOR FREE

27 BARAK LANE HEALESVILLE • 5962 2283 • bigbouquet.com.au

1204114-CG48-15

al Kids Me $7ic.5Ke0n nuggets,

SUMMER 2015 19

ALONG WARBURTON HIGHWAY

Wonderful

Warburton Lavender haze.

Splash out at Seville Water Park.

By KATH GANNAWAY WHILE Lilydale is the gateway to the three highways, the township of Wandin at the heart of the fruit and berry growing district of the valley, is truly the ‘welcome to’ gateway to all the Warburton Highway has to offer.

Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead and Warratina Lavender Farm are two of Wandin’s most popular attractions and a great way to start an outing along the Warburton Highway.

It’s notable, among other things, for its many townships - Wandin, Seville, Woori Yallock, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Wesburn, Millgrove and Warburton. Branching off, you’ll find yourself driving through rural hamlets such as Hoddles Creek, Yellingbo and Powelltown and at the very end of the line East Warburton, McMahon’s Creek and the Upper Yarra Dam. From U-pick berries and boutique cellar Lotus buds at doors to fishing in the upper reaches Blue Lotus. of the Yarra River, bushwalking, bike riding, shopping at boutique familyowned shops, taking in a live show or exhibition, chilling out with a pub meal, or a picnic, the Warburton Highway is a great option for a day trip or a full-on holiday.

For the best information on what’s happening along the Warburton Highway, visit www.visitwarburton.com. au.

Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead in the Yarra Valley

Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4.30pm. Closed Mondays & Tuesdays.

Christmas Period Close down: Closing 20/12/15 and Re-opening on Wednesday 6/1/2016

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Experience YesterYear Enjoy our Guided Tour and see what it was like to live in an 1880s house with a timber slab kitchen.

Also included are the dairy which was used to produce milk and cream, vintage machinery to drive farm equipment and Blacksmiths to make and repair home and farm implements plus our beautiful gardens. Fun for the whole family.

71 Wellington Rd, Wandin North | T: 5964 2088 | www.montdelancey.org.au 20 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

ALONG WARBURTON HIGHWAY

Little Asia closer home

By PETER DOUGLAS HAVE you ever wanted to have a holiday in an exotic tropical location or destination in Asia?

Well, you don’t need to get on a plane.

Blue Lotus Water Garden has its own little bit of the tropics in the Yarra Valley.

During summer, they open to the public for the annual Lotus Flower Season starting on Friday 27 December, and runs until the first Sunday in April.

This corresponds with the flowering of thousands of stunning lotus flowers and waterlily blooms.

The garden itself is spread over 50,000 square metres that includes 40 ornamental lagoons, ponds, two lakes, four fountains and thousands of tropical flowers.

Easy walking tracks provide access around the garden linked by oriental style arch bridges.

Large banana palms and reed covered huts complete the picture, giving you the feeling you’re in Bali, not the Yarra Valley.

If you’re after an affordable place to take the kids over summer, the Blue Lotus Water Garden is a great place.

They have plenty of picnic/barbecue facilities and don’t charge for children under 16.

The highly detailed tourist destination is sure to have something for everyone.

The grandchildren of owner Geoff Cochrane pose on a water lilly.

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Activities for the youngsters include a new fairy

garden (complete with a real fairy telling stories on weekends) plus plenty of natural wonders for the kids to explore.

A children’s face-painting artist will also be onsite most weekends and public holidays.

Feature attractions include the amazing Giant Amazon Lily.

Last year, owner Geoff Cochrane grew a lily pad that measured 1.7m across, which was the largest lily pad ever grown in Australia!

His grandchildren are pictured here floating on the giant lily for the media last year.

Facilities at the garden include a kiosk and ice cream hut, large park barbecues, amenities, a large retail plant nursery and garden shops.

The Blue Lotus Water Garden is located on the Warburton Highway at Yarra Junction.

It’s open every day from 10am to 5pm during the summer months.

Garden tickets cost: Adults $16 and Seniors $13.

Kids enter free.

Touristnews

SUMMER 2015 21

ALONG MELBA HIGHWAY

Magnificent Melba

By KATH GANNAWAY TWO significant gardens are a feature of this diverse stretch of Yarra Valley highway between Coldstream and Castella.

The gardens at Coombe Cottage, the home of Dame Nellie Melba and, until her death in 2011, her granddaughter Pamela Lady Vestey, are now open to the public as “Coombe”.

Alowyn Gardens in Yarra Glen is a showcase of garden rooms created by 2008 gardener of the year, John Van Der Linden over the past 18 years. The garden of around four acres is a delightful voyage of discovery to entice the senses.

From Yering where the old timber rail bridges give a hint of the great railway days of past, through to Dixons Creek and beyond this highway is a gift also to lovers of the super foods with excellent wineries, cafes and restaurants as well as the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, along its route.

If horse riding is your passion, the Castella Central Park at the intersection of Melba with the byways to Toolangi and Kinglake, caters for horse riders with secure paddocks, parking for floats and its connection to the Tall Trees Trail through Toolangi.

Take the road less travelled, venturing off the highway to Steels Creek for a leisurely wander along a typically Australian country lane.

While you’re in the area, “anyone for tennis?” Steels Creek tennis club rents out its courts when not in use by club members. Ring Albie on 5965 2354.

For more information on what the Melba Highway has to offer go to visityarravalley.com.au.

Yarra Glen’s main street is a mix of old and new.

Alowyn Gardens is stunning.

Toolangi - the home of C J Dennis, and delicious Devonshire Teas.

DEN OF ANTIQUITIES

Specialising in locally produced Art, Gifts, Homewares, Jewellery, Personal Care & Produce

Dorothy & Mike Winter

Yarra Valley Gifts

22 SUMMER 2015

25a Bell Street, Yarra Glen 3775 Fax & Phone: 9730 2111 Dorothy Mobile: 0413 454 966 Mike Mobile: 0414 934 363 Email: denofantiqities@gmail.com

1019126-SH10-12

YVG

Yarra Valley Gifts 22 Bell Street, Yarra Glen e-mail: shop@yarravalleygifts.com.au Ph: 03 97301134

1165095-HM51-14

Buyers and Sellers of Antiques

CLOSED TUESDAYS Touristnews

ALONG MELBA HIGHWAY

Giant pumpkin

comp invite

Many primary schools have been invited to partake in the competition.

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Many Australians are joining in the giant pumpkin fad.

ALOWYN Gardens and Nursery in Yarra Glen is holding a Great Pumpkin growing competition from November this year to March next year.

Giant pumpkins have been grown in America for many generations and now Australia is joining in.

The biggest pumpkins come from the variety called ‘Atlantic Giant’.

The current world record for an Atlantic Giant pumpkin is held by Beni Meier from Switzerland, with a whopping 1054kg pumpkin.

Dale Oliver, from Knockrow in NSW, holds the Giant Pumpkin Australian record, with an impressive 743kg pumpkin.

Alowyn Gardens has purchased genuine Atlantic Giant seed from Eden Seeds in Victoria and growing packs are for sale to the public.

Fifteen primary schools have also been invited to partake and have been sent growing packs for the school vegie patch.

Giant pumpkins require lots of sun and lots of water to grow quickly.

When young, their skin is soft, therefore allowing the pumpkin to grow quickly and put on the kilo.

If you enter the world of giant pumpkin growing, plan to spend a lot of time pampering and nurturing your plants to grow pumpkins at a phenomenal speed.

There will be a pumpkin display and weigh-in at the end of March at Alowyn Gardens and Nursery over the Easter weekend next year.

2013

WINNER of Tourism Ministers Award

New

ursery n t n la p e extensiv

Alowyn welcomes Summer 2015. Now open seven days a week, 10am - 5pm.

Groups welcome. Admission fee applies

1210 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen. Melways 267 G9 Phone (03) 9730 2400 www.alowyngardens.com.au Touristnews

SUMMER 2015 23

LAKE MOUNTAIN ALPINE RESORT

More fun under

the sun

THE snow might have melted, but there is still plenty of fun to be had at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort this summer.

lunch at the Alpine Burger Bar, complete with burgers, refreshments and a family size chips to share.

The mountain is offering your family the chance to experience the best it has to offer, with their Alpine Adventure package from just $59, including lunch for the whole family.

After that ... well I’m sure the kids will have you heading back outside for more!

The Alpine Adventure package operates on weekends from December through to May and includes unlimited use of the exhilarating tube run, mountain bike hire to explore the trails, jumbo games, breath-taking nature walks and orienteering challenges.

Of course, a visit to Lake Mountain wouldn’t be complete without a special appearance from the resort mascot ‘Lenny the Leadbeater’s Possum’, too!

Once you have worked up a hunger from all the fun and games, your family will enjoy 26 SUMMER 2015

If adult adventure is more your style, then the mountain bike trails may be right up your alley, with over 20 kilometres of single-track to explore.

If you are a road cyclist instead, well they have you covered there too, with the 7 Peaks Alpine Ascent Challenge, a gruelling 22-kilometre road climb from Marysville to Lake Mountain.

It’s an action-packed calendar of events this green season as well, with an array of events from mountain biking and road cycling races, to tarmac car rallies, obstacle events and music festivals.

Why not make a weekend of it too and stay in nearby Marysville, with a range of accommodation options to suit all needs and budgets.

For further information about Lake Mountain, visit the website www.lakemountainresort. com.au or call 03 5957 7201.

Touristnews

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Kids Entertainment, Competitions, Giveaways and fun for the whole family

Sunday 17 January, 2016 Healesville Greyhound Racing Association Don Road, Starting from 12.30pm

for more info go to:

a

sville R es

He

le

ac

S V E I L

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E LL

HEA

healesville.grv.org.au

H.A.R.C

Healesville Amateur Racing Club Inc

9TH JANUARY 2016: SUTTON GRANGE WINERY HEALESVILLE CUP DAY $15 Entry

30TH JANUARY 2016: SUMMER FUN

2ND APRIL 2016: GOLDEN THONG RACEDAY

HEALESVILLE RACES HAPPY FACES Admission: Adults $10, Pensioners/Concessions $5, Kids Free (Under 16)

Enquiries: 0417 380 298 • www.healesvilleraces.com.au

28 SUMMER 2015

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12TH DECEMBER 2015: CHRISTMAS PARTY TIME

Touristnews

COUNTRY RACING

All the racing action makes for an incredible spectacle.

Get among the glitz and glamour for a great day out.

Don't let the relaxed atmosphere fool you, there will be some heart-stopping racing action.

Off and racing

By JODIE SYMONDS THEY’RE off. Don’t pack away your spring racing outfits just yet, as these races will stop the Yarra Valley.

Get your friends and family together, get dressed up and head down to your local racecourse.

Country racing offers a quite different atmosphere to city racing.

You hear the wind whistling through the trees, the fresh air around you and the excitement of picking your favourite country horse hoping that you’ve picked the winner.

But for racing, it’s almost all about the fashion as much as it is about the horses.

This season’s fashion is all about making a statement by wearing exotic prints and bold colours.

If not bold enough to wear bold wear, then a simple pastel will look spectacular on the field.

This year, forget the city. Yarra Valley Racing at Yarra Glen Racecourse has got you covered for your summer fix of horse racing.

This summer there are multiple events to attend like their Christmas Race Day on 18 December, Chill out Race Day on 28 December or Kids Day out on 12 January.

The Christmas Race Day will include: ·· Live music; ·· Dining and hospitality packages; Touristnews

There is something for all ages ·· Yarra Valley food; when it comes to the country racing calendar. ·· Yarra Valley wine; and ·· Santa.

Chill out Day includes: ·· TAB operators ·· Dining and hospitality packages; ·· Yarra Valley wines; and ·· Free children’s entertainment and supervised activities.

Also don’t forget to catch the upcoming events at Healesville racecourse include the Healesville Cup on 9 January.

This event will be the perfect setting for the whole family to enjoy with a wide range of space to lay out your picnic rug and enjoy some delicious food.

The free activities include an animal farm, a jumping castle, pony rides and running races.

Tickets start from $15 for adults, $10 for pensioners and under 18-year-olds are free.

Don’t miss out on seeing the Healesville Greyhound Racing at the Healesville Cup to watch the best on the track.

For more information on Yarra Valley racing visit, http://www. yarravalleyracing.com.au/. For more information on Healesville race club, visit http://www.healesvilleraces.com.au/. For more information on Healesville Greyhound Racing, visit http://healesville.grv.org.au/.

SUMMER 2015 29

EMERALD LAKE

Music to make merry as summer rolls on

THE Hills will onc e again come alive with the sound of music during Cardinia Council’s Summer Music Series in February next year.

The Summer Music Series concerts are free, family-friendly events held annually at Emerald Lake Park.

Set against the backdrop of beautiful local parkland, these concerts provide a musical feast from both local and visiting musicians.

Each of the concerts is held in the bandstand at Emerald Lake Park between 12.30pm and 3pm.

A variety of world class musical groups will grace the bandstand over the month, representing a range of musical genres.

In previous years, this has included the Becky Moore Funk Quartet, the Cardinia Civic Concert Band, Voyages World Music Group and Khristian Mizzi and the Sirens.

Cardinia Shire residents of all ages are encouraged to bring friends, family and a picnic to enjoy the music and beautiful surrounds of one of the shire’s most beautiful parks.

Now in its sixth year, the Summer Music Series gives the community a chance to hear and support wonderful local and visiting musicians while staying close to home.

For more information about the Summer Music Series or other arts and cultural activities, contact the council’s Cultural Development Officer on 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/summermusic

Emerald Lake Park

to offer s a h k ar P e k a L Discover all Emerald

Summer Music Series 2016 The hills once again come alive with the sound of music during the Summer Music Series in February 2016.

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Our Summer Music Series concerts are free, family friendly events held annually at Emerald Lake Park.

Set against the backdrop of beautiful local parkland, these concerts provide a musical feast from both local and visiting musicians.

Each of the concerts are held in the bandstand at Emerald Lake Park between 12.30pm and 3pm.

For more information, contact Emerald Lake Park on 1300 131 683 or visit emeraldlakepark.com.au 30 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

Your surroundings.

Your stage.

Vibe Hotel Marysville is designed to connect you with its beautiful, natural surroundings offering the perfect wedding venue, with sweeping views of the Yarra Ranges National Park and Cathedral Ranges.

You’ll have superb service and flexible space, bathed in an abundance of natural light thanks to spectacular floor to ceiling glass windows; all just a 90 minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD. Whether it’s an extravagant affair for 350 guests or an intimate gathering, we have a variety of package options to make your special day a memorable one.

Contact our Vibe Wedding Host for more information 03 5957 7700 or email meet.marysville@vibehotels.com.au

32-42 Murchison Street Marysville VIC 3779 Australia meet.marysville@vibehotels.com.au

TFEhotels.com/vibe

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VMYV_Ad_Marysville Tourist News Wedding Ad_Aug15_v2.indd 1

Touristnews

12/08/2015 1:51:00 PM

SUMMER 2015 31

1202946-KK43-15

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Located at the base of the Dandenong Foothills, the Dorset Gardens Hotel is the perfect place to stay.

Whether you’re on business, attending a Conference or looking for a place to relax and stay, our motel accommodation caters for all needs with a variety of room types available. Located adjacent to the Hotel complex, guests can also enjoy the convenience of all the Hotel facilities in close proximity.

Our 3.5 star motel accommodation provides spacious rooms with all the amenities guests require. The property offers 45 motel style rooms including 2 family rooms, double & twin and a 5 bedroom apartment with private courtyard.

Our helpful and friendly staff are on hand and look forward to making sure your stay is a relaxing & comfortable experience.

* Family Bistro * Conference & Function Facilities * Night Club * Sports Bar & Beer Garden * TAB Lounge * Drive Thru bottle shop * Courtesy Bus 32 SUMMER 2015

For more information on all our motel/hotel and functions facilities please contact us on 9725 6211 or visit our web site on www.dorsetgardenshotel.com.au 335 Dorset Rd Croydon Mention this ad to receive a complimentary continental breakfast upgrade.

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Other facilities the venue offers:

Touristnews

antiques Pat Neilsen and Alan Ayres from Yarra Glen Op Shop.

Pictures: JESSE GRAHAM

Snap up a

bargain

Touristnews

Graham McKernan from Yarra Valley Antique Centre.

WarburtonLODGE Situated in the most scenic part of Warburton with spectacular views of Mt Victoria, Mt Donna Buang and the Yarra Ranges National Park.

Warburton Lodge is a relaxing hotel for a quiet time or as a base from which to explore and discover this very special environmental wonderland.

Warburton Lodge is a motel which has wonderful facilities (tennis court, conference centre, BBQ areas, etc.) and is wonderfully located to take advantage of the sites and views of the Yarra Valley. If you are looking for a place to stay in Warburton, then choose the motel with atmosphere and heritage; Warburton Lodge, a wonderful motel in the Yarra Valley.

1073652-SL20-13

By JESSE GRAHAM MANY visit the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges for the wine, the sights and the countless activities to do in the many different areas.

While the area may be more known for wining and dining than shopping, the varied towns of the Yarra Ranges give a myriad of shopping options, including many well-stocked antique and op shops.

In Yarra Glen alone, there are several antique shops - almost as many as there are cafes - and op shops, along with retail outlets scattered about Bell Street.

Pat Neilsen from the Yarra Glen Op Shop told Tourist News that the shop was well-visited and well-stocked by visitors, tourists and residents - with some unique items walking in the door, only to go straight back out.

“We did get a very nice mountain bike last weekend, which lasted for all of maybe three or four hours,” Ms Neilsen said.

“We have a special place now in the shop for special things, and some things walk in the door in the morning and they’ve walked out the door again by lunchtime.

“The stuff is always changing - we have people come from other suburbs because they know they will always get something special here.”

The Op Shop, along with the town’s numerous antique shops, gives the opportunity to buy a new item - in one sense of the word - that has a history, or is unique or hard-to-find.

It all comes back to the idea gaining more momentum in public that items don’t necessarily have to be new to be good.

Graham McKernan from Yarra Valley Antique Centre said there was a great deal of variety in the shops, with the centre itself having 20 different businesses trading from the building.

He said he got involved in antiques following a life-long passion for old things.

“I was fascinated with art deco and things like that when I was younger and it’s just sort of gone from there,” Mr McKernan said.

Both Ms Neilsen and Mr McKernan said the shops were supported by a good cross-section of the community - the people new to town, those who had been there for decades and those just passing through.

“It’s a good mixture,” Mr McKernan said.

“On the weekends, we get a lot of people passing through on the way to the snowfields and during the week, we do get a lot of people in, but a lot of locals, too.”

With so much to see and choose from, the best way to wrangle a great find is to take a couple of hours and hit the towns of the valley and the hills on foot.

18 Park Rd, Warburton 3777 Ph 5966 2037 www.warburtonlodge.com.au SUMMER 2015 33

Welcoming

landscape WARRANDYTE Cafe sits nestled among Warrandyte’s bushy landscape.

Staff work together to create unique and varied menus to create the ideal experience you would like from your meeting or function.

Owner Tammy and her staff have worked for almost a decade to create an inviting atmosphere to enjoy time spent with family, friends and colleagues, or even to come and create new friends.

Enjoy a selection of a la carte breakfast and lunches, or treat yourself to one of the chef’s house-made cakes, with a selection of gluton-free options always available.

Serenity abounds whether on the balcony overlooking the Yarra River or seated around a towering redgum.

Signature dishes include the chef’s hearty house-made pies or the eggs hollandaise, a staple breakfast of regular customers.

More than welcome to bring your dog along as well, as the front area is dog-friendly; they even cook up some special treats for your ‘little friends’ so they don’t go without!

An ever-changing specials board utilises the freshest, quality locally sourced ingredients in order to either warm stomachs with hearty chicken schnitzel burger or freshly made rice paper rolls for those lighter hunger pangs.

A secluded indoor area creates a fantastic environment for business lunches or larger family catch-ups.

If you can’t make it on-site, but you still require some delicious treats, let them handle all that for you.

Warrandyte Cafe provides on-site catering, whether for a sit-down meal or a finger food function, let the team come to you as you simply put your feet up and enjoy as they do the work for you.

34 SUMMER 2015

The recent addition of chef Martin Graham, former head pastry chef at the Grand Hyatt in both Bali and Melbourne, and creator of Outrageous Cakes in Hurstbridge, has brought the added excitement of personally hand-constructed cakes.

Catering to all requests and ideas, an outrageous, unique cake is the perfect way to celebrate your special occasion.

Touristnews

Lunch: Tuesdays to Sundays From 12:00pm Dinner: Every night From 6:00pm

$11 LUNCH SPECIAL Tuesday - Thursday

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

1203186-ACM50-15

3 Course Banquet from $25.00 per person or 5 Course Banquet from $35.00 per person

Liscensed & BYO Wine Only 190 Mt Dandenong Rd, Ringwood East

1037069-CR36-12

1205514-PB51-15

P: 9870 0554 www.nikos.com.au

61 – 63 Yarra Street, Warrandyte Phone: 9844 0365 Come and relax in this unique tranquil bush garden cafe SEASONAL MENU AND FULLY LICENSED (specialising in wines sourced from local Australian wineries) EXTENSIVE DELICIOUS BREAKFAST MENU (Eggs Benedict our most popular) GOURMET LUNCHES (Specials board changes often) Large selection of Herbal Teas & Devonshire Teas available THE BEST EVER COFFEE Open 7 Days a Week 8.00am – 5.00pm Rear on-site car park ample room for buses

Ultimate Weddings & Cocktail Parties up to 60 Touristnews

SUMMER 2015 35

wineries

Valley’s finest drops

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS THE Yarra Valley is the ultimate home of cold-climate wines, but with an unusually warm season, the vintages have arrived early at wineries around the region.

Indulging in the beauty of the Yarra Valley and the magnificence of the wine and food on offer is a summer pursuit equal to none.

Experiencing the absolute best of the region on offer in glass and on plate is a must when visiting the area. Here are just eight of the more than 70 wineries and vineyards in the Yarra Valley that make the perfect summer escape.

Giverny Estate - Toolangi Open stunning garden with people encouraged to suit by water lily pond- a decent thing to do this time of year.

We grow the kiwi fruit, we are kiwi fruit farmers, small in the scheme of things and therefore you have to think laterally about what you do with fruit. The year 1998 was when our first wine was made, and since then we have a wider range of wine and styles and cider as well. We do a desert wine, a dry table wine, sparking, liqueur schnapps and cider.

Badger Creek Blueberry Farm - Badger Creek Wine from grapes is all well and good, but what about something a little different? Badger Creek Blueberry farm makes fortified, sparkling and other wines from, you guessed it, blueberries. The farm’s cellar door is located at the winery and offers a relaxed casual space for patrons to try wines and ciders as well as enjoy a regional platter of local foods. There is a summer patio surrounded by the hills of the Yarra Valley for your eyes to feast on while you sip wines outside the usual.

Giverny Estate

TarraWarra Estate - Yarra Glen Multi-award winning wines and cellar door is what you will find at TarraWarra estate. A 10-minute drive from Healesville’s historic town

centre, TarraWarra Estate boasts some of the most decorated wines in the Yarra Valley. Most recently, TarraWarra was awarded the Victorian Trophy for White Wines of Provenance for their Reserve Chardonnay at the Melbourne Wine Awards. The Trophy recognised, particularly, the 2014, 2008 and 2004 vintages of the Reserve Chardonnay, a must try with a visit to their spectacular cellar door.

De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate - Dixons Creek You can easily knock over a few of the Yarra Valley’s more prominent attractions in one day with the De Bortoli Wine & Wildlife Self Drive Package. This package allows visitors to experience the wonder of Australian Wildlife in their natural habitat at the Healesville sanctuary before driving back through the magnificent landscape of the Yarra Valley to the De Bortoli Wines vineyard for a two-course lunch at De Bortoli’s Locale Restaurant and wine tasting. The day is then topped off by a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for a sweet indulgence.

Sir Paz Estate - Wandin East Sir Paz is the continuation of a family tradition and promise carried through the generations of the Zapris family. The estate has a newly opened cellar door where visitors can experience the masterfully crafted wines of the estate overlooking the rolling hills and rivers of the valley. Offering a gourmet Mediterranean platter with the wine, Sir Paz keeps alive the traditions The Zapris’ brought to Australia to share with you today.

Hanrahan Vineyard - Gruyere A family owned and run vineyard on the banks of the Yarra River, Hanrahan Vineyard is a great little hideaway from the world. Warm and welcoming cellar door and award winning wines make this particular wine spot one for those seeking a more close-knit feel. You can also expect a warm reception from resident one-canine welcoming party Darcy.

Giverny Estate We are only a one hour drive from Melbourne, so why not visit Giverny Estate and sample our wines, after a leisurely drive through the Yarra Valley.

Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Public Holidays 10am to 4pm Sample our wines and cider

KIWI FRUIT WINE & CIDER 69 Cherry Lane, Toolangi Phone: (03) 5962 9421 Fax: (03) 5962 9180 www.givernyestate.com

36 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

wineries

Coombe Farm Wines - Coldstream Surrounded by the famous Melba Estates, Coombe is a premium wine and dining destination. Only made in small quantities, these wines are both expressive and exclusive to the superior growing region offered by the Coldstream area of the Yarra Valley. Coombe Farm in unique in that it has two cellar door dining experiences to offer, at ‘the Farm’ and at The Melba Estate house. Each cellar door has its own particular flavour and feel but both offer top-of-the-range food and wines for their visitors’ pleasure.

Innocent Bystander - Healesville A Healesville institution, Innocent Bystander is more than just a winery. While they offer their own wines they stock other wines and local foods, artisan baked bread, roast coffee, and host events. When

visiting the Yarra Valley, it would be a mistake to skip a visit to Innocent Bystander.

They also offer a cheese selection picked out by winemaker Steve Flamsteed, who won a Queen’s Trust scholarship to study farmhouse cheesemaking in France. Innocent Bystander has absolutely everything you could want for a day of culinary indulgence.

1141698-SL37-14

At Badger Creek Blueberry Farm we specialise in wines made from 100% blueberries.

Come to the farm for tastings and sales of our unique and delicious Blueberry Still, Sparkling and Fortified Wines.

Ƃ

Frozen berries & homemade preserves

Ƃ

Open Thurs – Mon 10am-5pm

At St Ronan’s Cider we craft unique Australian Ciders.

Come to the farm for tastings and sales of our multiaward winning ciders, Methode Traditionelle Apple Cider, Pear Cider, 500ml bottles of our St Ronan's 'Draught' Cider. Or Stay y for a p pint or two straight out of the keg.

Ƃ Open Thurs – Mon, 10am-5pm Ƃ Events & functions catered for Ƃ Bookings essential for groups over 8 people

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek (800m past Healesville Sanctuary)

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek (800m past Healesville Sanctuary)

Ph (03) 5962 1601

Ph (03) 5962 1601

@BCBlueberryFarm

facebook.com/BCBluberryFarm

www.blueberrywinery.com.au

Touristnews

@StRonansCider

facebook.com/StRonansCider

www.stronanscider.com.au

SUMMER 2015 37

1205191-ACM50-15

1165838-CG51-14

CHERRIES

Fresh from the Farm…

TracTor FruiT TasTings Tours running all summer.

More than 360 varieties of fruit.

Stone fruit available all Summer and into Autumn!

6 - 8 varieties of fruit for tasting during tours , now running all year, U Pick available on tours for tasting on tours running December - September.

Peach cafe serving snacks, Lunches and Devonshire Teas 7 days, Open every day except Christmas Day, Fruit Sales all Year, Plant Nursery with large range of fruit trees in stock.

RASPBERRIES BLACKBERRIES STRAWBERRIES KRIMSONBERRIES HOME MADE JAMS

TOURS ALL YeAR U-pick or Buy Fresh on the farm

Large range of fruit produce available in our shop, jams, relishes, bottled fruit, fruit leathers, fruit pies and new season stone fruit

Open 7 days Ph: 9737 9534 www.upick.com.au

5964 7654

Cafe open 7 days throughout the year 60 Schoolhouse Rd, Woori Yallock

www.raynerstonefruit.com.au 1201826-CG46-15

1193517-KK31-15

KooKABerry

t. & f. caltieri

strAwBerry fArm

ms, syrups and Multi award winning ja vinegars • ‘Pick Your Own’ or buy fresh picked berries and cherries from the farm gate • Gift Shop open during season times • Homemade berry jams • See our website for season times and latest information • Just 1 hour’s drive from Melbourne • We hope you enjoy your day!

U Pick Berries & Fresh Fruit Sales, 27 Parker Road, Silvan. www.upickberries.com.au

PH: 9737 9400

Fresh Frozen U-Pick

Berries Now Available Gift Baskets made to oRdeR thRouGhout the yeaR. BuLk jams avaiLaBLe foR tea Rooms, cateRinG sizes foR Bed & BReakfasts. noW sPeciaLisinG in WeddinG BomBonieRe. oPen yeaR Round foR fRozen BeRRies, jams, syRuPs, vineGaRs and Gift Packs - PLease Phone ahead fRom june-mid octoBeR

25 Lewis Road, Wandin. Ph: 9737 9586, 0415 768 222 email: natcal@iprimus.com.au www.kookaberry.com.au 38 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

Take your pick

By JESSE GRAHAM LET’S face it - one of the best things about summer is not just the beautiful places to visit and enjoy the sunshine, but what you get to eat and drink when you do it.

And what better food to have during those hot days than fruit that you picked yourself?

The Yarra Valley and Dandenongs are bursting at the seams with fresh fruit picking, with plenty of seasonal fruit to be had as the valley warms up.

With strawberries, cherries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, apricots and tomatoes in season, U-Pick farms have a huge offering, and the opportunity for visitors to see the whole process first-hand.

Many U-Pick farms also offer dessert or fruits direct from farm cafes, as well as other treats to cool off with - or coffee for those wanting a pick-me-up.

pick fresh, have fun!

When planning a U-Pick day, remember to pack for a big day out - sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, hand-towels, good walking shoes and a wide-brimmed hat are all essential.

Bringing a change of clothes - or at least stain-proof clothes - may be a good idea, in case mud or fresh berries leave their mark, and bringing a bucket, basket or container may help with collecting.

Keeping berries or fruit in an open container will stop moisture from forming, while washing fruit before eating should stop them from going soft.

If you’re saving the berries for later, freeze them in a container without washing, to keep the skins from toughening.

But most of all enjoy yourself and eat your fill of some of the best produce in the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs.

• U-Pick berries and vegetables • Purchase pre-picked produce • Sit back and relax with a coffee • Refresh with a real fruit frozen slushy • Enjoy products made from our berries Visit jayberries.com.au to see what’s ripe for picking and opening days!

140 Wandin Creek Road Wandin East, Victoria

1202997-CB43-15

WANDIN VALLEY FARMS Fresh AustrAliAn

Cherries Growers / Packers / Marketers of the finest Victorian and Tasmanian Cherries

1149067-PB37-14

Come and buy your fresh cherries direct from the packing shed door!

Export Quality and Seconds available Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large cherries available from 500grams to 5kg cases

Shop Sales

Open 7 days

8am to 5pm

Closed Xmas Day and New Years Day Check www.wandinvalleyfarms.com.au for any updates on shop opening times and days 75 Wellington rd, Wandin north tel: 0359 644 669 | Fax: 03 59 642 103 | email: admin@wandinvalleyfarms.com.au

Touristnews

SUMMER 2015 39

warburton trail

Rail trail

a treat

By PETER DOUGLAS THE 40km Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail must be one of the most popular and versatile tourist attractions in the Yarra Valley.

The trail can accommodate those seeking adventure, relaxation, exercise, good food or just something a little different.

Trail-goers of all levels of fitness have plenty of options.

Perhaps, you could venture out on a quiet trail ride and take in the incredible scenery and the occasional birds.

For the more adventurous, you could make a weekend of it and try the 40km each way journey, which takes you through the many inviting rural towns.

You’ll never be left wanting for anything, with many enticing places to stop and enjoy a bite.

Though, whatever method you choose, the main drawcard is much the same -the unique and diverse landscapes.

To go with the renowned Yarra Valley vineyards, along the way you will discover farmlands and impressive forest areas, all before you arrive in the beautiful town of Warburton with its river walks and range of cafes and eateries.

Trail highlights: ·· Hereford Road tunnel ·· Yarra Glen station yard ·· Wandin station About the trail: The rail trail starts from the end of the metropolitan rail network at Lilydale then heading through increasingly rural landscape.

Most of the original station platforms are still present with replica station signage.

The Warburton railway line was opened in 1901 to ferry farm produce and closed in 1965, with the track removed in 1969.

For the not-so adventurous: The entire 40km journey may be a bit much for some, so why not break it into a smaller journey: Lilydale to Mount Evelyn (6.9km), Mount Evelyn to Wandin (5.4km), Wandin to Seville (3.4km), Seville to Killara (3.3km), 40 SUMMER 2015

Killara to Worri Yallock (4km), Woori Yallock to Launching Place (6.4km), Launching Place to Yarra Junction (2.1km), Yarra Junction to Millgrove (5.2km), Millgrove to Warburton (3.3km).

The experience: Much of the ride is in the shade and there is never a chance of being bored.

The trail is a very scenic ride, but generally easy to complete, with only a few hills and generally and the gradient goes easy on you.

There are many start/stop points along the way, so it’s great for all ages and cycling skills.

But it’s advised appropriate clothing and cycling gear is taken up, as well as letting people know where you are travelling.

There are some crossings where patience and caution may be required, as well as traffic lights at the crossing the Warburton Highway.

The trail features good road access at many points for drop-off and pickup.

Toilets are available at different points.

The option of refreshments along the trip makes it all the more enjoyable and the tracks are generally renowned for being in great condition.

For further information, visit Shire of Yarra Ranges, Warburton Information Centre or Yarra Valley Railway.

Touristnews

summer fun Ethan Smith, 16, swimming at Healesville's indoor pool.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Pools to help

you keep your cool

By JESSE GRAHAM and VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS THOUGH the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs are full of leafy towns, it’s still easy to become overwhelmed with the worst of the summer heat.

Luckily, no matter where you travel, you’ll never be too far away from a pool or a spot to cool off, with indoor and outdoor pools dotted through the area.

In the Yarra Valley, Healesville’s indoor pool, the Jack Hort Memorial Pool, is located next to Healesville High School on Camerons Road, while the outdoor pool can be found in Queens Park, off of Don Road.

Yarra Junction’s indoor pool sits just off of the Warburton Highway, opposite the town’s main shopping strip, and for those not up for a swim, Seville Water Play Park can be found on Monbulk-Seville Road.

The Water Play Park’s jets are turned on during the summer months, and the park is open all day for free, and has a nearby playground and shady areas.

Up north, Marysville has an outdoor pool for visitors, open from 1pm to 6pm during weekends, public holidays and school holidays.

The Monbulk Aquatic Centre, on Baynes Park Road and the Belgrave outdoor pool in Borthwick Park provide plenty of swimming opportunities in the hills, as does the Olinda outdoor pool.

The Olinda Pool opened in early December after being closed down with major cracks in the pool in late 2013 - following a campaign from community members, the Yarra Ranges Council and the Victorian Government came on board to save the pool.

In Emerald, the Emerald Lake Park is open from 8am to 8pm, just outside of Emerald’s main street, offering paddleboat rides, fishing and a wading pool for children.

Little Peninsula Tunnel, just outside of East Warburton on the Woods Point Road, is a place to sit in the shade and tip your feet into the water.

Entrance to the area is on the left-hand side of the road, driving out from Warburton, and a short walk down to the river. Generally, the water levels are low, and visitors can dip their feet and cool off however, the area is unsupervised, and mobile reception is poor.

When visiting, always take supplies such as food, water and sunscreen, and check fire danger ratings.

For opening times and entry prices for pools, visit www.yarraranges. vic.gov.au Touristnews

Monbulk Aquatic Centre.

Splash out at Seville.

SUMMER 2015 41

skate parks

Christian Douglas practising at Warburton Skate Park.

Josh Wenhuda at the Healesville Skate Park on its official opening day.

Skate

Kailem Bowman in action at the opening of Warburton Skate Park.

Picture: KATH GANNAWAY

parks add fun

By JESSE GRAHAM AS THE weather dries up and the sun comes out, seeing the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs on foot, on bike or on four wheels is a must.

But those four wheels don’t always have to be driving through the hills, stopping in to see the sights - they can also be on the concrete of the many skate parks around the area.

Healesville’s skate park, which sits alongside the town’s BMX track, is learner-friendly and often has a mix of young and old skaters trying out the park on clear days.The skate park also has a seated area in the shade, for parents to sit in or for kids to take a break.

There are plenty of small ramps and rails to practice on, and larger structures for more experienced skaters, though parking is only found at the side of the road or further down at the Queens Park oval.

Yarra Glen Skate Park, meanwhile, offers a number of more challenging half pipes, mini half pipes, a volcano and rails and is more spaced-out - located next to the playground in McKenzie Reserve; it’s a one of the more family friendly parks in the shire.

In the hills, Monbulk, Mount Evelyn and Upwey all offer their own skate parks, each catering to different crowds.

The Mount Evelyn set-up on Birmingham Road is easier for beginners, with well-spaced and less-challenging structures, and sits alongside the Warburton to Lilydale Rail Trail.

Upwey’s park on Mahony Street features larger ramps and quarterpipes for more experienced skaters, with a platform atop for standing and sitting.

In the Upper Yarra region, Yarra Junction’s park in the town’s main street offers steeper quarter pipes and ramps than some of the shire’s other parks, along with a large bowl in its centre - though the park is described by some users as being more bike-friendly, when compared to other parks.

Warburton’s skate park, meanwhile, offers beginner-to-intermediate elements and plenty of space for skaters, as well as a sheltered space for shade.

The park was designed in consultation with local skaters, who also lobbied the council and raised funds for the park to be built.

For more information on the shire’s skate parks, visit www.yarraranges. vic.gov.au.

Healesville skaters, with then-mayor Fiona McAllister, at the opening of their local park on Don Road.

Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

42 SUMMER 2015

Touristnews

markets

All the bargains

under the sun

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

ranges of wares, to farmers markets where the best of local produce is up for grabs.

Who doesn’t love a bargain? Who doesn’t love taking in glorious summer weather? If you are looking for a way to combine the two, then the markets in the area are what you want.

Markets around the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are an institution that locals and tourists alike populate on weekends and weekdays.

The best place to find that unique and affordable gift and to experience the wonderful nature of the locals is at the many markets around the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

You are guaranteed to find what you are looking for and much more at any of the markets you visit.

And you have so many to choose from, the only question you need to ask is “Where do we start?”

They range from craft markets where local craftspeople and artisans have the widest

Picture: VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

H

December 20th February 21st March 20th

ealesville Community market inC.

Healesville River Street Markets 8.00am - 1.30pm

No market in January

River Street Car Park

Coronation Park

1st Sunday of the Month Contact: 0488 445 112

3rd Sunday of the Month Contact: 0407 360 415

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

Large variety of Stalls including: • Home made: cakes, candles, clothing, craft, jams, soaps • New: carpets, clothing, collectables, paper & cards, shoes, tools, wool • Plants: bulbs, cut flowers, potted plants, trees, seedlings etc • Produce: eggs, fruit, vegetables • Recycled: books, bric-a-brac, DVDs, CDs, clothing, furniture • Tools: new & old • Hot food & drinks available

Mel Ref: 21 J5 1207280-DJ47-15

1151432-AM35-14

Kallista Community Market

205 Little Yarra Rd (towards Powelltown), Yarra Junction

1st Saturday of the month 9am-1pm, 2 Church Street Next Market Dates 19th Dec • 16th Jan (at Upper Yarra Museum) 20th Feb (music festival market) • 19th Mar

Gembrook Market Puffing Billy Station Gembrook Jan 24, Feb 28, March 27 Touristnews

1204043-RC48-15

enquiries@littleyarramarket.com www.littleyarramarket.com Facebook: LittleYarraMarket Phone: 0425 758 522

December 19th • February 6th • March 5th Bookings and Inquiries: Amy 0402 012 247 Market Day 9 a.m. – 2 p.m 4th Sunday of the month (except Dec.) • Fruit, Vegies • Bric-a-brac • Free Recycled Clothing • Flowers, plants, Herbs • Recycled Metal Pizza Ovens • Cakes, Preservative Free Breads • Local Wine, Hot food, Drinks • Arts & Crafts • Pet Treats Enquiries: 0437 664 121 Melway 312 K10 Pakenham, Emerald 15 minutes gembrookmarket.com.au

1202035-ACM42-15

Come & join in the fun!

Enquiries, busker bookings and info (stalls from $10)

Upcoming market dates...

1203217-LB47-15

Quality stalls local & organic produce, sausages, craft, clothing, organic skin care, second hand books, organic sourdough bread & croissants, plants & seedlings, coffee, donkey rides, entertainment and much more.

A great day out!

SUMMER 2015 43

listings

gallery, market & cellar door listings Galleries

Art at Linden Gate 899 Healesville Yarra Glen Rd, Yarra Glen Open: Friday-Monday 10am-5pm & Wednesday during school holidays.

Phone: 9730 1861 www.artatlindengate.com Den Of Antiquities 25A Bell Street, Yarra Glen Open Wednesday-Monday 10:30am-5pm Phone: 9730 2111 Mont De Lancey 71 Wellington Rd, Wandin Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm Group bookings available Phone: 5964 2088 www.montdelancey.org.au Redgum Gallery Shop 3, 47-53 Olinda Monbulk Rd, Olinda Open weekdays 11am-4pm & Weekends 10am-5pm Phone: 9751 2526 www.redgumgallery.com.au Warratina Lavender Farm 105 Quayle Rd, Wandin Yallock Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-4pm Phone: 5964 4650 Yarra Valley Gifts 22 Bell St, Yarra Glen Email: shop@yarravalleygifts.com. au Phone: 9730 1134

44 SUMMER 2015

Markets

Eltham Community Craft & Produce Market Alistair Knox Park, Panther Place, Eltham 3rd Sunday of every month 8:30am-12:30pm Phone: 0401 288 027 www.elthammarket.com.au Healesville Community Market River Street, Healesville Phone: 0488 445 112 Gembrook Market Puffing Billy Station, Main St, Gembrook 4th Sunday of the month 9am-2pm Phone: 0437 664 121 www.gembrookmarket.com.au Little Yarra Market 205 Little Yarra Rd, Yarra Junction 3rd Saturday of every month 9am-2pm Phone: 0411 243 673 www.littleyarramarket.com Mont De Lancey Country Market 71 Wellington Rd, Wanding North 2nd Saturday of the month 9am-1pm Phone: 0419 147 140

Accommodation

The Tower Motel Marysville 33 Murchison St, Marysville Phone: 5963 3225 www.towermotel.com.au Sanctuary House 326 badger Creek Rd, Healesville www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au Dalrymples B&B Cottages 18 Falls Rd, Marysville Phone: 5963 3416 Amelina Cottages 1120 Marysville-Buxton Rd, Marysville Phone: 0434 692 622 Vibe Hotel Marysville 32-42 Murchison St, Marysville Phone: 5957 7700 TFEhotels.com/vibe

Emergency Contacts

Fire, Police, Ambulance 000 DOCTORS Healesville Medical Centre Ph: 5962 4379 Valley Primary Health Care Phone: 9730 2536 Eastern Ranges After Hours Service Phone: 1300 766 858 Valley Primary Health Centre 1 Symonds Street, Yarra Glen Phone: 9730 2536 Yarra Valley Clinic 223 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Phone: 5962 4633 Pharmacy Healesville Pharmacy 215 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Phone: 5962 5845 Healesville Walk Pharmacy Phone: 5962 4165 Yarra Glen 34 Bell Street, Yarra Glen Phone: 9730 1433 Fire Victorian Bushfire Information Line Phone: 1800 240 667 Belgrave Police Station 8 Belview Road, Belgrave Phone: 9754 6677 Healesville Police Station Cnr Harker Street & Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Phone: 5962 4422 Lilydale Police Station 6-10 Albert Hill Road, Lilydale Phone: 9739 2300 Yarra Glen Police Station 68 King Street, Yarra Glen Phone: 9730 1296

THROUGH THE CELLAR DOOR BADGER CREEK BLUEBERRY FARM 11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek Open: Thurs - Mon 10am-5pm Phone: 5962 1601 www.blueberrywinery.com.au Greenstone Vineyards 179 Glenview Rd, Yarra Glen Open: Thurs – Mon 10am – 5pm Phone: 9730 1022 Sir Paz Estate 54 Parker Rd, Wandin East Open every Sunday 11am – 5pm Phone: 5964 2339 www.sirpaz.com PUNT ROAD WINES 10 St Huberts Road, Coldstream Open: 7 days 10am-5pm Phone: 9739 0666 www.puntroadwines.com.au SEVILLE HILL 8 Paynes Road, Seville Open: 7 days 10am-5pm Phone: 5964 3284 www.sevillehill.com.au TOKAR ESTATE 6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream Open: 10.30am-5pm daily Phone: 5964 9585 www.tokarestate.com.au WILD CATTLE CREEK ESTATE 473 Warburton Highway, Seville Open: 7 days 11am - late Phone: 5964 4755 www.wildcattlecreek.com.au YILEENA PARK 245 Steels Creek Rd, Yarra Glen Open: 11am-5pm Thurs - Mon Phone: 9730 1977 www.yileenapark.com.au

Touristnews

Calendar of events DECEMBER

6

A Day on the Green, Paul Kelly, Kacey Chambers, Rochford Wines, (03) 5957 3333.

10 Spectacular Christmas Light and Sound Show, Chirnside Park, (03) 9726 8111.

11 Emerald Christmas Twilight Market, Puffing Billy Park, (03) 5968 3881.

11 Belgrave Community Carols, Mater Christi College, 0414 293 922.

11-12 Dinner Show with the Stars, 6pm, Kalorama, www.countryplace.com.au 13 Yarra Glen Carols, McKenzie Reserve, 7pm-9.30pm, 0408 143 969.

20 Twilight Christmas in The Vines, Rochford Winery, 3pm-7pm, (03) 5957 3333.

27 Lotus Flower Season, Blue Lotus Water Garden, until 3 April.

31 NYE in The Vines, Rogue Traders, 6pm, (03) 5957 3333.

31 Dancesport Kingdom, New Year’s Eve Ball, (03) 9739 6011, Lilydale, Cave Hill Rd.

JANUARY

1 6

Tractor Fruit Tasting Tours, Rayner’s Orchard.

Black Saturday Remembrance Cruise, Healesville, 3pm-8pm, 0421 321 203.

16 Yarra Valley Pro Rodeo, Healesville, 0447 557 987.

19-23 Australian Chainsaw Carving Championships, (03) 9751 0443.

29 Live Jazz at Wild Oak, Restaurant, Mt Dandenong, (03) 9751 2033.

30 Artists in Our Residence, Montrose Town Centre.

FEBRUARY

13

A Day on the Green, Simply Red, Tina Arena, (03) 5957 3333.

19-21 Well-being weekend with Lola Berry, Vibe Hotel, (03) 5957 7700.

27 Roller Coaster Run, Mt Dandenong, 0415 308 977.

28 Kinglake Produce and Artisan Market, 0419 339 320.

PLAYGROUNDS

Montrose Community Playground is all about adventure.

Healesville’s Railway Playground will keep kids on the fun track.

Pictures: KATH GANNAWAY.

Grounds to make

merry

By KATH GANNAWAY IF A playground is safe, clean and has equipment to suit different age and ability levels, it will tick most of the boxes for the grown-ups.

For the kids, it’s all about adventure and fun.

There’s no doubt that, next to clean toilets, a playground where the kids can run off some energy has to be top priority when holidaymakers pull up for a pit-stop with the kids.

The Yarra Valley, Dandenongs and the Ranges have an abundance of fantastic playgrounds, most with the added bonus that they are located in beautiful parks, close to other attractions ... and, yes, toilets!

The Tourist News team has shortlisted 10 of the region’s ‘funnest’ playgrounds, and whether you’re stopping for a break as you pass through one of the region’s beautiful towns, or spending time in one spot, the kids will thank you for keeping this list in your glovebox.

1. Montrose Community Playground. A wood-style playground, lots of swings, a sensory garden and a large central climbing net - the one and only in Australia!. Picnic/barbecue facilities. Mt Dandenong Tourist Road (Melways 52-D8).

2. Marysville Kin Playspace in the heart of the town. Special features include adjacent to the Steavenson River (an ideal paddling creek in the summer months), fantastic flying fox. Picnic/barbecue facilities.

Murchison Street. (Melways 628-A3).

3. Yarra Glen Adventure Playground. Located at McKenzies Reserve adjacent to a skate park for older children, there is good shade ... and it’s brand new. Picnic/barbecue facilities. Corner Anzac Avenue and Melba Highway. (Melways 275-A1).

4. Kalorama Reserve. Plenty of space and shaded areas. Special features include a new eight-seater see-saw and spinning carousel.

Adjacent to Karwarra Australian Plant Garden. Picnic/barbecue

facilities. Mt Dandenong Tourist Road (Melways120-B9).

Marysville Kin Playspace has loads of great equipment for all ages.

Mount Evelyn’s town playground is well placed next to the skate park for older children.

46 SUMMER 2015

5. Lillydale Lake Playground. Loads of equipment, plenty of open space and network of trails, a sandy beach adjacent to the lake for sand-play and paddling. Picnic/barbecue facilities. Swansea Road.

(Melways 38-G7).

6. Yarra Junction Community Playground. Fully fenced with good shade. In the heart of town, adjacent to the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail, indoor swimming pool and skate park. Picnic/barbecue facilities.

(Melways 288-D7).

7. Healesville Railway Playground. Railway-themed playground, adjacent to the Healesville Tourist Railway and new community Labyrinth. Picnic facilities. Healesville-Kinglake Road (Melways 278A1).

8. Belgrave Borthwick Park Playground. Large playground. Lots of shade beneath giant California Redwoods, adjacent to Belgrave swimming pool. An enormous 360 degree basket swing due to go in before Christmas. Blair Road, Belgrave (Melways 75-F11).

9. Seville Water Play Park. Yarra Ranges’ first water play park built with young children and families in mind. Features 15 random water jets and other water-themed activities. Picnic/barbecue. Cnr. Warburton Highway and Monbulk-Seville Road. Open October to March (Melways 119-K10).

10. Mount Evelyn Morrison Reserve West Playground. Farmyard theme, recently expanded to better cater for younger children. Picnic/ barbecue facilities. Mikado Road, Mount Evelyn (Melways 118-C9).

Some playgrounds include all abilities play equipment. A key may be needed for some equipment. Phone Yarra Ranges Council on 1300 360 333 or google the playground name for further details for all playgrounds other than Marysville. For information on Marysville phone 5963 4567.

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The Tower Motel Marysville • Motel rooms with a difference • A spacious private courtyard • Walking distance to all attractions • T Bar/ Lounge with fire place • Craft beers & ciders • Rooftop deck • Foxtel • Close to a variety of walking/biking trails • Luxury Mercedes Benz Viano tour service

1161358-LB51-14

• Idyllic location

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33 Murchison St Marysville Email : info@towermotel.com.au Phone: 5963 3225 Website: www.towermotel.com.au SUMMER 2015 47

- Cellar Door - Award winning wines - Lunch & Dinner

- Breathtaking views - Intimate Weddings - Corporate Functions 1134499-SL-24-14