Tourist News Autumn 2020

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY AND DANDENONG RANGES

AUTUMN 2020

FREE

THINGS TO DO IN HEALESVILLE RAIL HERITAGE ON DISPLAY TRACKING WORLD CLASS ART

AUTUMN

NATURAL BEAUTY

CONTENTS

AUTUMN 2020

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9-13

14-15

16-17

20-24

25-29

30-33

35

THINGS TO DO IN HEALESVILLE

EXPLORE THE YARRA VALLEY

AUTUMN IN THE DANDY RANGES

DINING OUT/WINE COUNTRY

EDITOR Garry Howe Mail News Group. Phone: 5957 3711 Email: editor@mailcommunity.com.au ADVERTISING Mathew Templeton Mail News Group, 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777.

Phone: 5957 3700, Fax: 5957 3777, Email: mathew.templeton@mailcommunity.com.au

PARKS AND GARDENS

FARM FRESH/ GALLERY/ MARKETS

MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Thomas 2 AUTUMN 2020

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY AND DANDENONG RANGES

AUTUMN 2020

FREE

THINGS TO DO IN HEALESVILLE RAIL L HERITAGE HERITAGE ON DISPLAY A TRACKING WORLD CLASS ART

DESIGN Star News Group, Creative Services Department, Cnr Princes Hwy & Army Rd, Pakenham 3810, Phone: 5945 0666 PUBLISHED BY Star Mail, 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777, PO Box 470

ACCOMMODATION

COVER: Autumn is the season that celebrates transformation. It’s a time where our forests palette of colours transcend from baked beige into vibrant hues of glorious oranges, reds and yellows. For many, autumn is their favourite season and where better to experience it than the cool climate forests and brilliantly vibrant gardens of the Dandenong Ranges. See story page 9.

Picture: DEREK SCHLENNSTEDT

AUTUMN

NATURAL BEAUTY

Touristnews

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326 Badger Creek Rd, HEALESVILLE Bookings essential | Ph 5962 5148 www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au | E: info@sanctuaryhouse.com.au Touristnews

AUTUMN 2020 3

HEALESVILLE

5

THINGS to do in HEALESVILLE 3

Art

Food

2

Yarra Valley Railway

Healesville boasts a variety of cafes, bakeries and spots to grab a quick cup of coffee.

The historic Healesville Grand Hotel is a great place to grab a bite or a drink and offers a place to stay right in the middle of the town.

Further down the Maroondah Highway is the Beechworth Bakery - a hotspot for locals and tourists looking to grab a tasty treat.

The Yarra Valley Railway project operates tourist rail services on a Walker Railmotor from Healesville Station to Tarrawarra Estate, through a historic brick tunnel.

The Healesville Railway Station opened in 1888 and was used as an extension of the Lilydale train line prior to its closure in 1980.

Now the station is back up and running as a tourist railway line as part of Australia’s largest volunteer infrastructure project.

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5

Queens Park

The revamped play space in Queens Park has equipment for younger and older children, including swings, double flying foxes, a sandpit, nature play area, balancing logs, an accessible spinner and more. It features a new sculpture highlighting the nests of local birds and is the perfect place for a family picnic.

Bed and breakfast

Visitors planning on spending the night in town should make sure they check out one of the many bed and breakfast options in and around Healesville.

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The Yarra Valley is a hub for the arts and Healesville is home to The Memo, which displays the work of local and nationallyrenowned artists. The newly opened YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub in the heart of Healesville regularly features free exhibitions and events for the public.

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4 AUTUMN 2020

Touristnews

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AUTUMN 2020 5

PUFFING BILLY

RAIL HERITAGE NOW ON DISPLAY

BY JESSICA ANSTICE

PUFFING Billy Railway now brings even more rail history to life with its highly anticipated new Menzies Creek Museum now open.

The historic museum, which covers a space of 1160 squares and houses over 80 exhibits, officially opened to the public on Monday 24 February.

Amongst the significant exhibits are rare operational steam and diesel locomotives, carriages and a rail tractor.

Adding to the atmosphere, the museum also features an operational boiler house that services steam engines, fluid pumps and 500 break horsepower generators.

A themed children’s play area and the Little Toot Cafe provide space to sit down, relax and await the 30-minute train journey back to Belgrave.

Museum manager, David Baker, who started at the railway as a volunteer in 1993, said the museum project has been a huge undertaking over a 10-year period.

“The Menzies Creek Museum was originally established in the early 1970s, as a partially sheltered, outdoor museum,” Mr Baker said.

“The original museum displayed many of the same exhibits we have in the museum today, however not a lot was known about their background and there was very little interpretation.

“The museum closed in 2003 as the structure was in need of update and repair. It sat idle for a number of years while we worked out the best way to proceed, and in 2010, the first sod was turned to create the new museum which stands today.”

Mr Baker said it has been a long process to get the doors opened, with thousands of hours from staff and volunteers going into researching each item to discover their stories.

“Most of the items on display were acquired in the 1970s and 1980s and predominantly tell the story of industrial Melbourne from the 1800s up to the modern day,” he added.

“As we researched each item, we came across some great stories about where they came from and what they were used for. It was a fascinating process and a huge step forward in the preservation of this part of rail history.

“We have now documented all this information and incorporated it into the museum experience, making it more interesting and educational for visitors.”

With a big vision for the museum, the museum committee will be adding more audio-visual and interactive experiences over time.

“We are also working on a road/farm steam area to highlight what life was like alongside the narrow gauge,” Mr Baker said.

“We have a steam tram and steamroller that we are working to get on display and are always looking out for items of significance to expand our collection.”

Mr Baker said his favourite item in the museum “has to be” the climax loco.

“It is a unique locomotive as it was built to run on undulating,

Decauville Locomotive.

6 AUTUMN 2020

Menzies Creek Museum manager David Baker with a 1950s Queensland sugarcane Perry engineering.

imperfect track at low speed with lots of power,” he explained.

“It is also the only intact climax out of 50 that were built for the Victorian railways, and the only one built for the Erica State Sawmill, so it is pretty special.”

A special train service to Menzies Creek has been introduced to cater for visitors wishing to experience this unique station stop.

Passengers can enjoy a 30-minute journey from Belgrave, passing over the historic Monbulk Creek trestle bridge and through the forests of the Dandenong Ranges, before arriving at Menzies Creek to visit the Museum.

The return train ride departs 45 minutes later with Museum entry included in the fare.

Passengers taking the longer ride from Belgrave to Lakeside can also enjoy the museum as part of their fare, by making their way to the museum by car after their train journey concludes.

Those wishing to visit the museum only can drive to Menzies Creek Station and purchase museum entry upon arrival.

As an opening special, entry to the museum is free of charge until 31 July. After this date, entry will be free with a train ticket for the same day, or $10 per adult, $8 concession, $7 children and $30 for families (two adults and four children) for those not travelling on a train.

Menzies Creek Museum manager David Baker with the first Melbourne built Puffing Billy engine.

Touristnews

HERITAGE TOURS

Coombe Melba Estate.

Picture: ROB CAREW

EXPLORE HISTORY IN LOWER YARRA

BY TAYLAH EASTWELL

KNOWN for its picturesque views and abundance of wineries, the Lower Yarra Valley might seem an unlikely place to visit for those infatuated by history. But unbeknown to most, the region is home to several historical attractions guaranteed to take tourists back in time.

Nestled amongst several acres of stunning landscaped gardens, in a picturesque corner of Coldstream, lies Coombe Cottage the home of Australia’s most famous opera diva, Dame Nellie Melba. Melba’s former home has been developed to include a restaurant, cellar door and shop that is open to the public.

Coombe Cottage is located at 673-675 Maroondah Highway and is open 9.30pm to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and 9am to 3pm Fridays and Saturdays.

Entry to the gallery is free from 9.30am to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday.

For a quick history fix on the way to Yarra Glen, a visit to the Battle of Yering Marker at Murrup Brarn Yarra Flats Billabongs is a must.

Sparking the beginning of a three year land war, the ‘Battle of Yering’ occurred in 1840 when police sought to disarm local Wurundjeri people who had been conducting an armed resistance around what is now known as Yarra Glen.

The billabongs are located on Melba Highway between Chateau Yering and Vasey Houghton Bridge, Yarra Glen.

Gulf Station in Yarra Glen is open on the first Thursday of each month from 10am to 2pm.

Visitors can take a step back in time and walk through the station grounds that were once used to breed horses for the army and supply produce to the gold miners of the district. The property was purchased by the State Government in 1976 and is now under the care of National Trust, who have restored the slab buildings and cottage garden.

The station is located at 1029 Melba Highway Yarra Glen.

Just a stone’s throw away, the town of Healesville also boasts its own slice of history.

The Healesville Sanctuary was officially opened as Sir Colin MacKenzie Sanctuary for Australian fauna and flora on 30 May 1934. Visitors can meander through the tracks and meet the zoo residents, which include iconic Australian koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, emus and wombats.

The sanctuary is open from 9am to 5pm every day of the year and is located on Badger Creek Road, Healesville.

Maroondah Reservoir Park is another popular attraction. The Touristnews

Yarra Valley Railway.

Maroondah Reservoir Park.

41-metre high Maroondah Dam wall was completed in 1927 after seven years of construction.

An aerial ropeway operated between the Healesville Railway Station and the site, transporting cement and sand used to construct the reservoir. The garden grounds of Maroondah Reservoir Park also provide a popular autumn picnic destination, with a waterfall and playground providing something for all ages.

For more information and opening hours, contact 131 963.

Closer to the Healesville township exists a timber courthouse, one of the few timber buildings in its original state in the locality.

The portable police lockups built in 1866 are positioned behind the old courthouse, now among the last remaining examples of portable lockups in Victoria.

Tourists can end their history-packed day by catching a historical train from the heritage-listed Healesville Railway Station. The heritage Walker Railmotor RM22 departs from Healesville Station bound for Tarrawarra Winery every Sunday and public holidays (except Christmas), on selected Saturdays and on Wednesdays during school holidays.

AUTUMN 2020 7

CULTURE TRACKS

Preparing for the Culture Tracks launch

Uncle Jack Charles

Lantern Festivals representing Belgrave, Warburton, Yarra Glen

WORLD-CLASS ART MAKING TRACKS

BY DEREK SCHLENNSTEDT

HEAR engaging, entertaining and enthralling stories, see internationally-renowned artists and take part in events for families and people of all ages as part of this year’s Culture Tracks program.

Yarra Ranges Council’s annual Culture Tracks program was launched for 2020 in February at The Memo in Healesville, with artists of all kinds previewing their works to more than 200 community members.

Performers including classical musicians Rubik’s Collective, comedy cabaret performer Jude Perl, International Ballet Gala dancers, singer Rebecca Barnard and Indigenous storyteller Uncle Jack Charles, among others, demonstrated their talents at the opening event.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Richard Higgins, said the Culture Tracks program featured a diverse line-up of artists, performers and exhibitions, along with deep themes to be explored.

“Our Culture Tracks program is always a showcase of some truly vibrant, engaging and astounding creative talent from all over the globe, and this year is absolutely no exception.

“This year, we’re privileged to have Uncle Jack Charles, Archie Roach, Katie Noonan and the International Ballet Gala among our programmed events, along with workshops, exhibitions, classical music and events for people of all ages.

“These events cover a vast range of topics, from mental health to the experiences of Indigenous Australians, gender equality and diversity, and acceptance.

“There’s also a number of fantastic community events we’ve been proud to support with Council grant funding, such as the Belgrave Lantern Festival, featured in this year’s program.

“Community members can watch the full recording of Wednesday night’s launch event on the Yarra Ranges Life TV Facebook page.

“I would also encourage anyone interested in these events to visit culturetracks.info and book their tickets.”

The Culture Tracks program features events spanning comedy, 8 AUTUMN 2020

Performers at Culture Tracks launch

Rebecca Barnard does Joni Mitchell

classical and contemporary music, family events, exhibitions and storytelling, along with information about community events, significant dates and information about initiatives supported by Council.

Copies of the program are available at The Memo in Healesville, the Arts Centre in Warburton, the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in Lilydale, Montrose Town Centre and Mooroolbark Community Centre, along with some cafes throughout the region and all of Council’s Community Links.

For more information, visit culturetracks.info Touristnews

DANDY RANGES

AUTUMN IN THE DANDENONGS

BY DEREK SCHLENNSTEDT

AUTUMN is the season that celebrates transformation.

It’s a time where our forests palette of colours transcend from baked beige into vibrant hues of glorious oranges, reds and yellows.

For many, autumn is their favourite season and where better to experience it than the cool climate forests and brilliantly vibrant gardens of the Dandenong Ranges.

With some warmth in the day, cool nights, and a beautiful array of trees and gardens, the Dandenong Ranges is an autumnal paradise.

A divine spot at any time of year it is during autumn that the ’Alfred Nicholas Gardens quite literally shine.

If you can be there during the ’Golden Hour’ (the hour before sunset) the sunlight strobes through the foliage of various deciduous trees which literally shine.

While the foliage of the maples and beeches change at the gardens, the most spectacular sight is down by the lake where the golden ginkgos create a postcard view and reflect in golden beauty off the lakes surface.

Meanwhile, though not as popular, Pirianda Gardens is another spectacular spot for colour offers more isolated Steep paths which meander through a variety of trees turning vibrant red.

Pirianda is one of the quieter gardens in the Dandenong’s to visit, but well worth the effort.

Autumn in the Dandenong Ranges, requires little time and little planning as the colours stick around for some time. So grab some boots and explore the vast array of colour on offer.

One need not travel to the gardens either, for a simple walk

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.

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

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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.

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through Sherbrooke forest provides plenty of colour and excitement.

Even the roads that connect quaint towns across the mountain provide quick glimpses of colour for visitors.

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AUTUMN 2020 9

DANDY RANGES

CELEBRATING CHESTNUTS THE Kalorama Chestnut Festival returns to the Dandenong Ranges on 3 May. For more than 30 years the event has offered a celebration of the chestnut season.

Hosted by the Mount Dandenong Preschool and Primary School, the festival will feature plenty of stalls selling locally made handcrafts, a variety of food including roasted chestnuts, poffertjes and home made cakes.

Visitors can grab a sausage sizzle lunch and try some artisan beer, mulled wine or a tea or coffee.

There’ll be plenty of activities for kids, such as various rides for all ages, old fashioned kids games, petting zoos, reptile display, live entertainment and music.

Chestnuts have been grown in Australia for more than 100 years and offer high fibre and vitamin C whether they’re boiled, roasted or fried.

Chestnuts are synonymous with autumn in the Dandenong Ranges, so what better way to kick off the new season than by visiting the Kalorama Chestnut Festival.

For more information, call 9728 1480 or visit committee@ mtdandenongpreschool.com.au.

Bailey, 7, Rahni, 10, and Lily, 10, from Kalorama have fun with silly string.

Finn and Daisy collect chestnuts.

Picture: ROB CAREW 12401376-CG50-18

OPEN EVERYDAY* 10AM - 5PM *closed Christmas Day 10 AUTUMN 2020

SHOP 1, 540 MT DANDENONG TOURIST RD

OLINDA, VIC

CHOCOLATE FACTORY

WWW.ONLYMINE.COM.AU Touristnews

DANDY RANGES

LOCAL PRODUCE AT ITS FINEST

BY ROMY STEPHENS

IT doesn’t get much fresher than Pellegrino’s Fresh Fruits.

Pellegrino’s is a trusted hospitality supplier and produce store that has been servicing the Dandenong Ranges for decades.

Paul Pellegrino said his family’s business began in 1959 and has been at the Upper Ferntree Gully market for about 47 years.

“My grandparents started the business and we had two fruit trucks in Belgrave in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” he said.

Now, Pelegrino’s has expanded to include two main stores in Olinda and Wantirna South.

In fact, the business still serves some of its original clientele.

“We’re serving some of the customers that my grandparents served in Belgrave,” Paul said.

“A couple of customers are in their ‘90s.

“Now we’re serving their kids and their kid’s kids.”

Not only does Pellegrino’s provide locally-sourced fresh fruit, but the store also offers a range of cheeses, fresh meats, drinks, pasta, sauces and more.

Wholesale is also an important part of the business, supplying restaurants and hospitals with fruit and vegetables.

When it comes to the quality of stock, Pellegrino’s takes pride in ensuring its products are as fresh as possible.

“We do a lot of our buying through local farms so that we don’t have a middle man,” Paul said.

“We rotate it really quickly, we don’t store anything.

“We take it from the farm and we sell it off the shelf within the second day...That’s how we keep it special.”

Paul said Autumn is an ideal time of year for plums, stonefruit,

Pellgrino’s Paul, Katrina and Tony.

Picture: ROB CAREW

nectarines, peaches, grapes, strawberries, legumes, zucchini, eggplant and capsicum.

Pellegrino’s still runs at the Upper Ferntree Gully market every Saturday from 8am.

Customers can also head in-store at Olinda and Wantirna South.

For more information, visit www.pellegrinosfreshfruits.com.au.

WHERE STORIES ARE SHARED

STEAM TRAIN RIDE, MENZIES CREEK MUSEUM & MORNING TEA

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PUFFING BILLY’S NEWEST EXPERIENCE. Take a marvellous journey to the Menzies Creek Museum, where you can get up close and personal with railway relics from a bygone era before enjoying morning tea at our Little Toot Café.

Product only available with the daily 10:30 am departure from Belgrave Station.

Guided tours available upon request, bookings essential. Subject to availability.

BOOK TICKETS ONLINE AT

PUFFINGBILLY.COM.AU P: 9757 0700 E: info@pbr.org.au

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AUTUMN 2020 11

DANDY RANGES

CANINE CAPERS THINK Tough Mudder but with a dog. That’s what Animal Aid’s Adventure Dog - A Cross Country Challenge is all about.

The event is taking place this year on 5 April at Wandin Park Equestrian Centre. Canine and human participants will be challenged across the 4km course with 25 obstacles that involve mud, bubbles, inflatables and much more.

It may sound intense, but the event has been designed to ensure the event is a fun day out for dogs and families alike. Fur babies and their mums and dads will venture over hills, under logs, through the mud and lunge into water, all while enjoying great views of the Yarra Valley towards Mt Donna Buang.

Animal Aid is challenging participants to raise $250 per person.

Those who achieve their fundraising goal will join the ranks of fundraising heroes and will be thanked with Adventure Dog - A Cross Country Challenge merchandise.

Human entrants must be over 12 and dogs one year or over.

Monbulk Jewellers Aussie Gems Specialist Argyle Diamond - Precious Opal Sapphire - South Sea Pearl All Semi precious stones Gold and silver jewellery Watches Clocks Rocks Crystals Θ hŶŝƋƵĞ 'ŝŌƐ

Jewellery repairs & all relevant services Resident Jeweller ZĞƐŝĚĞŶƚ &ŝŶĞ ƌƟƐƚ & Jewellery Designer High Quality Fine Art 102 Main road Monbulk 03 9756 7652 www.monbulkjewellers.com ken@masterstouch.com.au

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Two furry friends show off their Adventure Dog merchandise.

The Cuckoo Restaurant is a stop like no other, being the home of the worlds largest free standing Cuckoo Clock and Australia’s first ever smorgasbord restaurant, now the longest running smorgasbord in Australia. The restaurant is unique in so many ways from the extravagant floor show, to dirndl dressed waitress and the German heritage and cosy family feel with a sixty years of smorgasbord splendour.

Booking recommended on (03) 9751 1003. 508 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd. Olinda.

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12 AUTUMN 2020

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SERVICE & QUALITY AT WHOLESALE PRICES

FRESH FRUITS WHOLESALE & RETAIL WAREHOUSE Est. 1960

Olinda - Fresh fish Friday’s 6XQVHW $YH 2OLQGD

Wantirna +LJK 6W 5G :DQWLUQD 6RXWK

The Gully Market (YHU\ 6DWXUGD\ DLOZD\ &DU 3DUN %XUZRRG +Z\ 5DLOZD\ &DU 3DUN %XUZRRG +Z\ Upper pper Ferntree Gully

Olinda Olind Phone: Paul: 0417 593 253 Tony: 0417 105 154 Touristnews

Warehouse: Wa h Ph: 9751 0525 2IÀFH

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PELLEGRINO’S FRESH LOCAL FRUIT AND VEGETABLES!

SUPPLYING WHOLESALE TO THE HOSPITALITY IND USTRY THROUGHOUT THE MELBOURN E METRO AREA

W tiirna:: Wantirna: Want Phone: -RVHSK 5RVV AUTUMN 2020 13

GARDENS

CIRCUS ARTS AND FLOWERS

Have some blooming good fun at the Kabloom Festival of Flowers.

Picture: DEREK SCHLENNSTEDT

The

Singing Gardens

of C.J. Dennis

EXPECT the unexpected at Tesselaar KaBloom, Festival of Flowers this autumn.

A carnival of colour will light up the Dandenong Ranges at this year’s vibrant festival held from 28 March-19 April.

There is nothing quite like Tesselaar KaBloom, which provides a family day out and a spectacular show where circus arts and flowers collide.

Festival director, Paul Tesselaar said the festival is bigger and brighter than ever before, both in and out of the fields.

“With our world class circus entertainment, along with acres of stunning blooms, Tesselaar Kabloom promises to be an event that will delight every member of the family,” he said.

Visitors can wander through fields of Marigolds, Salvias, Cosmos, Cleomes, Petunias, Geraniums and more.

Roll up to a show as Cirque de Bloom Spectacular sees flower fairies, sprites and pixies emerge from the magical woods to delight and entertain amid the colourful blooms.

A troupe of circus artists from Melbourne’s own Strange Fruit will perform scheduled shows every day.

New this year, Tesselaar has planted two whimsical wild flower meadows providing floral enchantment at its finest and an instagrammers dream.

As always, children are a priority at Tesselaar KaBloom with a full program dedicated to fun and creativity.

There will be appearances from Peppa Pig and George (30 March-3 April) and Ben and Holly (6-10 April), circus workshops, drumming workshops, Tractor Train, storytelling by resident fairy Teague, treasure hunts, garden games, an obstacle course, face painting, a crate maze and Easter egg hunts.

This year’s festival offers an opportunity to visit fabulous fields filled with millions of colourful blooms, live entertainment, activities for all the family, delicious food and market stalls to satisfy the shopaholic in anyone.

The event continues to grow and last year was listed as a finalist (smaller Festivals and Events category) in the RACV Victorian Tourism Awards.

Tesselaar KaBloom, Festival of Flowers will be held at 357-359 Monbulk Road, Silvan.

Adult tickets cost $26.50, concession $23.50 and children under 16 are free.

For more information, visit www.kabloom.com.au.

Open Thurs- Sun 10am- 4pm

BYO Licensed. CASH ONLY 1694 Main Road, Toolangi Ph: 03 5962 9282 Email: jansinginggardens@bigpond.com (Route C724) Parking Available.

Jan Williams and Family Welcome You.

14 AUTUMN 2020

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* Book early for Mothers Day Come see the amazing colors of Autumn For more information please check out our web site or Facebook Page @TheSingingGardens

Tesselaar KaBloom provides a fun day out for the whole family.

Touristnews

GARDENS

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF NATURE

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ALOWYN Gardens and Nursery started in June 1997 when Prue and John Van de Linde bought a run-down horse stud on the Melba Highway in Yarra Glen.

The gardens offer a unique experience for visitors.

Developed over 20 years, initially hosting only five trees on 52 acres, Alowyn has developed into a green destination.

Educational and visually exciting, Alowyn displays a large variety of plants tolerant of drought and frost.

The total area of the garden is approximately eight acres which includes a large edible garden, a parterre garden, a silver birch forest, French style garden, perennial border, casuarina forest, a series of small display gardens, the iconic wisteria archway and a new vegetable garden.

The gardeners at Alowyn love their bees and as a result, have planted many summer flowers including sunflowers, nepeta, poppies and roses.

The one-acre culinary garden is a delight for food lovers and a large display of fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers provides planting ideas for visitors.

A fully stocked extensive nursery is on-site with a range of plants available including outdoor and indoor plants and succulents, many of which feature in the gardens.

An interesting array of garden sculpture, beautiful pots and unusual items in the gift shop entice visitors.

There is also a small cafĂŠ, which sells delicious coffee and a range of scones, cakes and hot food.

The gardens are open seven days a week, 10am to 5pm (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day).

They are located at 1210 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen.

Seven acres of landscaped gardens, including a parterre garden, perennial border, two forests and numerous sculptures. Relax in our cafĂŠ and explore our new extensive nursery. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn in the French style garden NOW OPEN.

Touristnews

AUTUMN 2020 15

ACCOMMODATION

ENJOY A SHORT STAY IN THE HILLS ESTABLISHED in 1968, Lilydale Pine Hill has become a popular place to stay when visiting the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

The caravan park has been progressively developing its short stay sites and now has more than 100 sites which cater for camping, caravans, RV’s and big rigs.

Guests can choose from drive-through or en-suite sites, stay off the grid or hook up to power or stay in one bedroom or two bedroom cabins that cater up to six guests.

The park is a member of Kui Parks, a national network of privately-owned parks.

Kui Park members enjoy a discounted stay with Lilydale Pine Hill and many other member parks, plus assured quality facilities, friendly staff and value for money.

Pine Hill welcomes groups and special requests for clubs and functions. Groups can take advantage of Pine Hill’s Stay 7, Pay 6 offer. When guests arrive at the caravan park, they can pick up a discount voucher book which partners with local business.

Check in and head out to an event or function, or sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet after a long day’s drive.

Wander back in time to historic locations. Venture out to wine country. Grab farm-fresh produce. Explore famous gardens.

Snap up a bargain at any of the numerous markets.

At the end of the day, guests can light up the fire pit and share their stories with fellow travellers or jump onto the outdoor gym equipment to recharge their batteries.

Lilydale Pine Hill’s mission is to ensure visitors enjoy a great experience.

For more information about the caravan park or region’s attractions, visit www.lilydalepinehill.com.au.

Enjoy a night by the fire at Lilydale Pine Hill Caravan Park.

Picture: ROMY STEPHENS

Lilydale Pine Hill Caravan Park

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AUTUMN 2020 17

YARRA VALLEY

The Four Pillars team celebrating their achievement.

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A PILLAR OF THE DRINKS INDUSTRY

20 AUTUMN 2020

BY JED LANYON

HEALESVILLE’S own Four Pillars Gin was awarded the 2019 International Gin Producer of the Year at the 50th Annual International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) in London.

Four Pillars is the first Australian distillery to earn the accolade, considered the Oscars of the international drinks industry.

Co-founder and Distiller Cameron Mackenzie accepted the award at The Guildhall and said, “To win this award, on the eve of our sixth birthday is really, truly, bloody incredible.

“When we started making test batches of gin back in 2012 we never in our maddest, wildest dreams thought this could happen so quickly. To say that I am in a state of disbelief would be vastly understating the true state of my disbelief. “This award is a tribute to every single person who has helped us make, sell, create, drink or buy one of our gins. This is reward for all of them. This award is not for a single one of our gins but for the whole of our gin business and that’s what makes it so incredibly special. The previous two winners of this award are Hernö from Sweden in 2017 and Kyoto Distillery in Japan last year so we couldn’t be in better company. They are two of the greatest distilleries and two of our best mates in the world of gin.”

Back home, the Four Pillars team received the news in the morning and celebrated in true fashion by popping the champagne while blaring Queen’s We Are The Champions every hour on the hour. The IWSC Award for International Gin Producer of the Year recognises Four Pillars Gin’s leading role in the world of gin up to and including 2019, creating some of the most awarded gins in the world and leading the way for craft spirits producers, all anchored by its home in Healesville.

Four Pillars Gin was established in 2013 in the Yarra Valley on the outskirts of Melbourne and has become one of the world’s benchmark distilleries, Australia’s No.1 craft spirit and a leading light in the Australian gin revolution.

Four Pillars was founded by Mr Mackenzie alongside drinks industry veteran Stuart Gregor and creative brand strategist Matt Jones in 2013 and the business took on Lion (a subsidiary of Kirin) as a 50 per cent shareholder in April 2019.

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YARRA VALLEY

A VIEW TO PLEASE THE Yarra Valley has some amazing views on offer.

Whether you’re going on an adventurous hike, or just looking for that next insta post, here are some of the picturesque views for the region.

MOUNT DANDENONG Stunning vistas abound throughout the Dandenongs - many on main roads, some hidden off the beaten track, but none more spectacular than from SkyHigh.

SkyHigh Mt Dandenong sits atop the Dandenong Ranges surrounded by fern glades and towering native forest and has views that sweep across the Mornington Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay to the You Yangs. The Melbourne CBD twinkles on clear nights.

The site was first established as a survey point in 1861 and today features a secret garden, native flora garden maze, cafe and bistro, function centre, English garden, and forest walks.

SUGARLOAF RESERVE, CHRISTMAS HILLS Tucked away in Christmas Hills is Sugarloaf Reserve. A tranquil setting for a picnic or a stroll near the reservoir shores, offering wonderful views across the water. Some of the more popular things to do at Sugarloaf include fishing, walking and picnicking.

MT ST LEONARD, HEALESVILLE A brisk uphill hike leads to views across to the city of Melbourne.

Walk through towering gums breathing in the fresh air to reach the platform at the top of the mountain - on a clear day you can see as far as Port Phillip Bay. The view point for Mt St Leonard stands 1010 metres above sea level.

27 Barak Lane Healesville- 59622283 Open 7 days 10am-5pm Set in the heart of the Yarra Valley, The Big Bouquet farm is one of a kind. With free entry to the farm you can enjoy a wander through the garden, information room, cafe and gift Feed shop.

Cafe

Walking up the Mount Donna Buang Observation Tower is a challenge in itself.

MT DONNA BUANG A giant one awaits you and it’s just around the corner - or, in this case, a short drive up a 1250 metre mountain.

While perhaps better known for its snow-play opportunities during winter, the many hiking trails along Mt Donna Buang present many ways to reconnect with nature this autumn.

By unlimited, the choice is genuinely yours - whether you’re after a casual stroll, achieving a fitness goal, or something much more adventurous.

For some, just strolling around the summit may be inspiration enough.

While for others, the climb up the 21-metre observation tower - with panoramic views across the park - may provide enough adventure.

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25a Bell Street, Yarra Glen 3775

WED, SAT, SUN AUTUMN 2020 21

YARRA VALLEY

BIG NAMES FOR WRITERS’ FESTIVAL

Clare Bowditch, Helen Garner and David Williamson.

2-13 May with the main features showcasing over Mother’s Day Weekend.

The full Yarra Valley Writers Festival program will be announced on Friday 14 February.

Tickets available from www.yarravalleywritersfestival.com

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THE Inaugural Yarra Valley Writers Festival is bringing with it some of the country’s most acclaimed creative minds.

Author Helen Garner, playwright David Williamson and musician and writer Clare Bowditch will present at the Healesville event from 8-10 May. Helen Garner will discuss her latest release the Yellow Notebook: Diaries Volume 1 1978-1987 which reveals her insightful thoughts on Australia and her writings on the decade, just after the publication of her first novel Monkey Grip.

One of Australia’s most significant dramatists, David Williamson, will present on the ongoing themes of politics and family in contemporary urban Australia.

David first rose to fame in the 1970s with Don’s Party and The Removalists.

On Saturday night, Clare Bowditch will immerse the audience in her stories of childhood, growing up and becoming a musician.

Clare’s presentation will be based on her bestselling memoir Your Own Kind of Girl.

Festival programmer, and playwright, Hannie Rayson said the event will feature local, national and internationally-recognised writers, thinkers and speakers.

“It’s an absolute honour to have these three extraordinary writers in Healesville for the very first Yarra Valley Writers Festival,” she said.

“This is the best job. I read wonderful books and then write to their authors and say, ‘Would you like to come to the Yarra Valley for the weekend?’ And they say, ‘Yes, please!’ How brilliant is that?”

The entire Yarra Valley Writers Festival will take place from

Treat yourself (...the smiles are on us)

316 Maroondah HwyHealesville

www.BeechworthBakery.com.au 22 AUTUMN 2020

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YARRA VALLEY

VISIT THE NEW YARRA VALLEY TRAIL VISITORS to the Yarra Valley are now able to walk, run and cycle between Lilydale and Yering, with Stage 1A of the Yarra Valley Trail officially opened for the public.

The trail was officially opened by Yarra Ranges Mayor, Richard Higgins, Casey MP Tony Smith, along with representatives from Rail Trails Victoria, Yarra Valley Cycles and community members on Saturday 15 February.

“This seven-and-a-half kilometre section of trail is already a tourist drawcard, and we know that when this project is finished, thousands of people will visit, ride or walk from Lilydale to Yarra Glen and Healesville, then over to the Warburton Trail.

“These are visitors who stop for coffee and food, who stay in the region and who will share their Yarra Valley experience with communities around the world.

“For just about any of our community members, the views you’ll get along the trail will be ones that few people have experienced in the four decades since the railway line closed.

“We’ll start on the next part of the trail this year, working to connect Yering to Yarra Glen, but for now I’m proud of our achievements and this is a great moment to celebrate,” Mr Higgins said.

Mr Smith said it was great to see the first section of stage one of the Yarra Valley Trail officially open and in use.

“It will be wonderful for recreation locally and beyond. It will also mean there will be great opportunities along the trail and into those townships for tourism and small business growth and of course that will mean more job opportunities as well.”

Yarra Ranges Council has been working with the Yarra Valley Railway to ensure the trail complements the proposed opening of the tourist rail line between Healesville and Yarra Glen.

The first stage of the Yarra Valley Trail is now open.

This work has included developing shared visitor facilities at Yarra Glen Station to cater for all visitors.

The second stage of the trail will connect Yarra Glen to Healesville, while the third stage will connect Healesville to the Warburton Trail, creating a loop.

The Yarra Valley Trail’s first stage has been funded with $3.5 million from the state government ($2.5m Growing Suburbs Fund, $1m Eastern Metropolitan Partnership), $2.5m from the federal government’s Regional Growth Fund and $2.5m from Yarra Ranges Council. Stages 2 and 3 are unfunded at this stage.

For more information, maps of the trail and to stay up to date on the projects, visit rideyarraranges.com.au

IT WILL PAY TO BRING YOUR BIKE THE Yarra Valley will soon be a world class mountain bike destination thanks to a major project that will see 160 kilometres of trails for keen riders when completed. But while that project is on the way, here are a couple spots in and around the Yarra Ranges that are great to bring your bike.

LILYDALE - WARBURTON RAIL TRAIL While Lilydale is the end of the line for train travellers, it can be the beginning for walkers and cyclists who can still make their way along the 40 kilometre long former railway line with Lilydale station as a starting point.

The Lilydale - Warburton Rail Trail represents a great family ride as cyclists can choose where they wish to jump on and off as the trail cuts through many townships across the Yarra Valley.

Following the trail it’s worth taking time as you travel through vineyards, beautiful mountain scenery, farmlands and forests to imagine what was once a regular train route along the picturesque Yarra Valley.

The trail crosses a number of restored bridges and meanders past remnants of the former station platforms, including the original 1882 railway station at Yarra Junction which now houses the Upper Yarra Museum.

The rail trail’s gentle gradients make it ideal for all levels of fitness including families.

SILVAN Silvan features a variety of mountain bike trails for the more adventurous riders tucked away in the forests. Most of Silvan’s trails are described as intermediate and built on hard packed clay.

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You can find purpose-built shelters at various points along the trail.

Access to the trail network is from either the Silvan Reservoir car park, or slightly further away from the Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve or the Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail. These trail heads take you into the reserve via fire roads, and with the help of Trailforks you will find a track that suits you best.

HEALESVILLE Queen’s Park features a roll play space bike track for younger riders as this specially-made track allows children to learn traffic skills. The path criss-crosses the grassy areas near the Queens Park Kindergarten and the Healesville Tennis Club, featuring intersecting paths, safety signs and a roundabout for children to use.

Just along Don Road, there features a BMX dirt track for the older riders to ride the bumps and jumps in a controlled environment.

AUTUMN 2020 23

Healesville “Grand� Hotel Open 7 days - 11:30am till late Happy Hour Fri 4- 6pm Restaurant - Beer Garden- Balcony - Bottle Shop - Accommodation 270 Maroondah Highway Healesville T: 5962 4003 W: healesvillegrandhotel.com.au E: info@grandhotelhealesville.com.au Onsite Accommodation available both in the Hotel and a short stroll from the Hotel Drive Thru Bottle Mart Open 7 Days a week

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DINING

BURIED CULINARY TREASURE ANYONE and everyone who is on the truffle hunt - particularly those looking to enter into the industry as growers - would be well-served by touching base with Gembrook’s Trufficulture Nurseries.

Colin, Jan, Nathan, and Kaitlyn Carter are the family behind the business that grows and supplies trees which have been inoculated with truffle fungi, and they can provide advice on all aspects of establishing a complete truffiere of any size.

The Carters are extremely passionate about producing consistently excellent truffle-inoculated seedlings for Australian and international growers alike.

Colin, the director of Trufficulture, was educated at a horticultural college and has never really left what he describes as “the nursery game”.

After opting to give back to the industry by teaching at Swinburne, he entered into the truffle industry and it wasn’t too long before the rest of his family followed suit.

“We started doing the research and to really learn more about it I applied for an International Specialised Skills Institute (ISSI) fellowship and I was successful at that, so that took me to Europe and I was able to take my son Nathan with me,“ he said.

Nathan did a double degree at Melbourne University, followed by honours, and now even has a master’s degree in agribusiness.

He manages Trufficulture and has twice travelled to Europe on truffle study tours to further his already incredible expertise.

The truffle industry, particularly in this country, is rapidly evolving - so much so that Australia is already the fourth largest producer of truffles in the world.

“We’re creeping up on the others, too,” Colin said.

“In Australia we have old, ancient soils that are naturally low in phosphate and many regions with good draining soils are suitable for truffle production.

“All of those things have benefited us, and the industry has really improved since we introduced tree validation, formerly known as certification.

“Now when people buy trees they’ll be independently evaluated by a researcher from ANU (Australian National University) in Canberra as part of the ATGA (Australian Truffle Growers Association) program.“ Trufficulture began in Gembrook just over a decade ago, in 2008.

The Carters have been in Gembrook for more than 20 years, with the business taking up roughly a quarter of their 20-hectare property for nursery operations.

Colin said a truffle grower might only need one or two hectares to make a commercial venture, if the focused on getting it right.

“There’s a guy in Hoddles Creek who has two hectares and last year he produced 200 kilos of truffles,“ he said.

“He’ll definitely get more than 150 kilos of really good, saleable truffle.

“That’s exceptional, though.

“Most people, if they’re getting 20 kilos and have two hectares it’s good going.

“If you’re selling for export, you get around $1 a gram or maybe slightly less if it’s going to Europe.”

Truffles are the edible, fruiting bodies of a type of subterranean fungus known as mycorrhiza, which forms symbiotic relationships with a host tree - typically oak or hazelnut trees.

Much of Australia’s truffle production stems from Western Australia, which produces more than half, but the Victorian industry is a burgeoning one.

Colin estimated that commercial returns from truffles took Touristnews

Colin Carter with Trufficulture’s trusty truffle dog, Willow.

somewhere between eight to 10 years after tree planting to occur.

Truffle gets used in a whole range of things, from butter to cheeses, eggs to oil and salami.

“Although it is expensive - $2.50 per gram - 20 grams is $50 and you’d get several meals out of that,“ Colin said.

“It’s a garnish, and it’s the aromatics of it that work so well with all sorts of foods, mainly foods with fat and dairy foods.”

Alpine Retreat Hotel

s #ATERING FOR 7EDDINGS Parties, Functions & Conferences s &ANTASTIC VIEWS s !FFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION s $INNER NIGHTS ,UNCH 4HURSDAYS THROUGH TO 3UNDAY s MINUTES WALK INTO THE TOWNSHIP 3340 Warburton Hwy, Warburton

5966 2411 www.alpineretreat.com.au 12399228-DJ39-18

AUTUMN 2020 25

DINING

THE ’GO-TO’ FOR GREAT FUN WITH so many people finding fewer hours in an ever-increasing busy day, the Monbulk Bowling Club Bistro remains as the ‘goto’ for great fun, exceptional food, award-winning customer service and outstanding community support.

And as general manager Denise Rutzou explained, the Monbulk Bowling Club is the venue to relax, catch up with friends and family and unwind from the pace of the day.

“The Monbulk Bowling Club Bistro is a respected and recognised food and beverage leader, winning the Customer Excellence Award for hospitality for the last four years,” Denise said.

Management at the club have a simple aim - for everyone who walks through the doors to have a wonderful encounter and an enjoyable outing, with the experienced staff proudly focused on customer service.

Monbulk Bowling Club. Colleen and Harrison.

Picture: ROB CAREW

“There’s an exciting new menu about to be launched, with the head chef bringing his well-travelled global expertise and training to the Monbulk dining experience,” Denise said.

“And Friday night you can get your boogie on! Dance or sing away with outstanding live and local entertainment as the club supports artists from around the region.”

The Monbulk Bowling Club engages, promotes and supports the local community in many different, and sometimes discreet, ways.

It has generously handed out thousands of dollars in community grants for a host of local sporting and neighbourhood projects, and in a forward-thinking move, has just installed a new generator. So now, when the lights go out, the club will still be there for all its customers!

Diners enjoy a meal at the club.

And don’t forget, for some real fun, get the crew to the club for a ‘barefoot bowling’ session, corporate bowls, social bowls or hard-edged competition where everyone can get involved.

The Monbulk Bowling Club Bistro is an award winning, vibrant community hub located at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk. For more information visit www.monbulkbowls.org or phone 9756 6183.

Winner of “Excellence in Customer SERVICE - BISTRO” 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2019

When you’re next in the Dandenong Ranges why not try the s

3EASONAL -ENU

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#HEAPEST "AR 0RICES IN 4OWN

s

'REAT #USTOMER 3ERVICE

s

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All enquiries to office@monbulkbowls.asn.au or

9756 6183 26 AUTUMN 2020

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fantastic hospitality of our award winning bistro.

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DINING

WINE, DINE EXPERIENCE CONCEALED away in the secret sub-region of wineries at Seville, Wild Cattle Creek Estate’s focus on constantly evolving has seen it earn its place in a classic yet progressive pocket of the Yarra Valley’s wine country.

With a cellar door, a la carte restaurant and multiple accommodation options, Wild Creek Estate offers visitors the complete winery experience for a relaxed autumn day.

The cellar door offers tastings of a range of estate grown wines that can be enjoyed on the balcony overlooking the impressive sloping vineyard.

The team is excited to soon add a new vintage to the range as they prepare to begin hand-picking for the estate’s Pinot Gris and Sangiovese varieties.

During the week, visitors can enjoy a two-course lunch made from fresh local produce coupled with a glass of house-made wine at the venue’s onsite ala carte restaurant. Wednesday nights ‘Steak Night’ have also proven popular and includes steak, chips, vegetables, a choice of sauce and (of course) a glass of Wild Cattle Creek wine.

Visitors can indulge by booking a stay at the venues range of accommodation options, including 1, 2 and 3 bedroom configurations of self-contained modern villas, as well as a cottage and historic homestead. All bookings include breakfast and are sweetened by a bottle of Wild Cattle Creek Wine and chocolates.

Currently in a transformational stage, the cellar door at Wild Cattle Creek Estate has a new jarrah tasting table and upgrades to the balcony are now complete with views overlooking the picturesque lotus pond.

Wild Cattle Creek also offers tour group lunches and wine

tastings, conferences and working lunches, functions that can be customized for any occasion and also hosts weddings and onsite ceremonies.

For enquiries and bookings contact 03 5964 4755.

RESTAURANT

CELLAR DOOR

WEDDINGS

Wild Cattle Creek Estate Yarra Valley Restaurant—Cellar Door Weddings—Accommodation 473 Warburton Hwy, Seville, 3139 Ph. 5964 4755 www.wildcattlecreek.com.au

ACCOMMODATION

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AUTUMN 2020 27

WINE COUNTRY

Q&A WITH TOKAR’S DANIEL TOKAR How long have you been in the wine industry?

A tough questions to answer as I’m not quite sure how long it’s been, but I’ve primarily worked on the wine industry side of things for the last 10 years. But I’ve been around vineyards and wineries for the better part of two and half decades.

How did you get involved with Tokar Estate?

Being a family business, it’s something I’ve just grown up around and being part of. Though i did step out of the wine industry part of things for some time after finishing Year 12 and became a chef. It was only after many years as a chef that I realised I needed a break from cooking, at the time I was working at the family estate. That was where I decided to go into the wine side of the business in a sales role.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The fact I get to drink on the job is not bad. Jokes aside, working in the wine industry is pretty good as you get to spend time in the sun, drink good wine and see the paddock to bottle process. Being in the wine industry you really get to witness the seasons and the changing of the seasons. But all that is nothing compared to the fact the Yarra Valley is one of the prettiest regions in Australia, and many of us see that every day when we go to work.

Tell us about the wine produced at Tokar Estate - what sets you apart?

We are primarily a red wine estate, with 80 per cent of our wine being red dominate. But what sets us apart is probably our style of wine which, like many wineries, is a collaboration between the winemaker and the site. As the years have gone by and changed so has our philosophy in both the winemaking techniques and the vineyard practices. In current trends of wines you are seeing

Gourmet BBQ Sausages

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28 AUTUMN 2020

better focus and site expression with a minimal approach to the winemaking side of things, practice we’ve had implemented for some time now. Tokar Estate like others in the Yarra valley has invested heavily in vineyard management in order to achieve not only greater wines but greater constancy across our wines.

Which one is your personal favourite and why?

My favourite wine would have to be Cabernet Sauvignon. Similar to how many people come across a sporting team to follow when younger, the same is said about wine. As a young boy with European ancestry, wine has always been a party of life so when I was 12 years old we were visiting the Napa Valley in California, we were visiting Robert Mondavi Winery and that is where my favourite wine became Cabernet Sauvignon. We were treated to a special tour and tasting to which I was given the chance to taste some wine even though I was only 12 years old.

Aside from wine, what else do you offer visitors?

Besides wine we offer our cellar door to purchase wine from our newly refurbished barn, we have a newly renovated restaurant which is serving modern Australian cuisines with flavours from Eastern Europe. However on top of all that is one of the best visual outlooks of the Yarra Valley and the rolling hills of our beautiful region.

What makes for a memorable Yarra Valley dining experience?

Patience, good company, good wine, good food and something nice to look at. We want people to leave happy and relaxed like most business would thou we want people to come and let us serve them, let us send food out for you, let us create some excitement for you. I guarantee the dining experience will be so much better when people are serving each other and trying new foods that they might not have tried otherwise.

Allinda: Lorimers Lane Dixons Creek, 5965 2450.

Badger’s Brook: 874 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream, 5962 4130.

Badgers Creek Blueberry Farm: St Ronans Cider 11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek, 5962 1601.

Billanook Estate: 280 Edward Rd, Chirnside Park, 0422 280 975.

Boat O’Craigo: 458 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 5962 6899.

Elmswood Estate: 75 Monbulk-Seville Rd, Seville, 5964 3015.

Five Oaks: 60 Aitken Rd, Wandin East, 5964 3704.

Greenstone Vineyard: 179 Glenview Rd, Yarra Glen, 9730 1022.

Kellybrook Winery: Fulford Rd, Wonga Park, 9722 1304.

Killara Estate: 733 Warburton Hwy, Seville East, 5961 5877.

Morgan Vineyards: 30 Davross Court, Seville, 0432 734 649.

Oak Tree Vineyard: 1921 Coldstream West Rd, Coldstream, 9739 1550.

Paynes Rise, 10 Paynes Rd,

Seville, 5964 2504.

Seville Estate, 65 Linwood Rd, Seville, 5964 2622.

Seville Hill: 8 Paynes Rd, Seville, 5964 3284.

Six Acres: 20 Ferndale Rd, Silvan, 0408 991 741.

Soumah of Yarra Valley: 18 Hexham Rd, Gruyere, 5962 4716.

Steels Creek Estate: 1 Sewell Rd, Steels Creek, 5965 2448.

Steels Gate Wines: 1974 Melba Hwy, Dixons Creek, 5965 2155.

Tokar Estate: 6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream, 5964 9585.

Warramunda Estate: 860 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream, 0412 694 394.

Whispering Hills Vineyard: 580 Warburton Hwy, Seville, 5964 2822.

Wild Cattle Creek Estate: 473 Warburton Hwy, Seville, 5961 9105.

Yering Farm Wines: 19-21 St.Huberts Rd, Yering, 9739 0461.

Yileena Park: 271 Steels Creek Rd, Yarra Glen, 9730 1977.

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WINE COUNTRY

Have you always enjoyed wine?

Not always, though the older I get the more i enjoy it, this might have come with maturity but it also come from trying plenty of wine from around the Australia and overseas.

How has Tokar Estate changed over the last 25 years?

Tokar Estate has changed plenty since we first started. We are coming up to our 21st vintage of wine and also our 18th year since we built our somewhat iconic building. Iconic in the fact it is Tuscan yellow with a Terracotta red roof. We’ve change our style of not only our wine but also our restaurant, we adapted to modern and current trends all while keeping the one thing that has kept people coming back day after day, month after month and year after year, and that is the heart and soul approach in everything we do. Our labels have changed the fourth chapter for our wine story with the 2018 Vintage being the first to change. In the spirit of change, September 2019 saw our restaurant and cellar door close for two weeks to get a welldeserved makeover, a modern look and something that I myself am very proud of, a space we think is just as beautiful as the surrounds of our beautiful region the Yarra Valley.

The inviting, warm premises of Tokar Estate.

Cellar door specialising in wines made from 100% blueberries.

Cellar door, cider bar and orchard located 800m past Healesville Sanctuary.

Wines tastings and sales, small plates daily, relaxed atmosphere, child and dog friendly.

Real Australian Cider made with real Australian fruit made onsite.

Only 800m past Healesville Sanctuary.

Cider tastings and sales, small plates daily, relaxed atmosphere, child and dog friendly.

Open Thursday – Monday 10am to 5pm

Open Thursday – Monday 10am to 5pm

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek www.blueberrywinery.com.au 03 5962 1601

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek www.stronanscider.com.au 03 5962 1601

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AUTUMN 2020 29

FARM FRESH

KEEP THE VALLEY FRUIT FLY FREE TOURISTS can help preserve the Yarra Valley’s clean green production environment when they visit.

The Yarra Valley is a great place to be a part of the farming life and see how food is produced.

There are activities and experiences for individuals, couples, families and groups to enjoy.

Many of the experiences are on working farms (places of production) or in areas closely linked to the farms.

We can taste wine, eat fruit, interact with animals and enjoy walking and riding on trails in the fresh air. We don’t normally think about our own impact on the farms when we visit.

Taking the time to learn about biosecurity and taking extra care of our actions can help these places of production to keep pest or disease free. Prevention is better than cure.

Do you take a picnic with you to the Yarra Valley?

What impact will the food you are carrying and eating on the day have on the Yarra Valley’s places of production?

How can you help?

The Yarra Valley is keeping free of Queensland Fruit Fly. Here are some tips on how you can make a conscious effort to reduce your impact on the growing of fresh fruit and vegetables in the Yarra Valley.

• Keep infested fruit out of the region.

If you are coming to the Yarra Valley with fruit, check it to ensure that it is pest and disease free. Cooked fruit is the safest way to prevent pest and disease movement from place to place.

• Dispose of all fruit and vegetable waste properly. Put it into regularly maintained rubbish bins.

Throwing your uneaten fruit or vegetable onto the ground in the Yarra Valley can result in two biosecurity risks; One risk is the pest or disease possibly on that fruit or vegetable could spread into the production area. If you suspect the fruit or vegetable is infested, seal it in a bag or container and dispose of it responsibly. If it has suspect maggots or larvae in it, please report it to the Queensland Fruit Fly Prevention Program (with photos) via email to qff@agribusiness-yarravalley.com or report it to a fruit tourism operator near you.

The other risk is that ‘your food rubbish’ could grow into a plant that might one day be affected by pest or diseases. Feral 30 AUTUMN 2020

trees and plants are not able to be well managed. They can be the cause of pests and diseases spreading. The Yarra Valley is committed to reducing feral trees in production areas. Please don’t add new feral fruit trees!

• Respect Biosecurity signs and keep inside the designated tourist areas. Leave the production areas free of risk. Keep to paths and roads. Don’t enter production areas with out authorisation. Remember that the soil, plants and land are someone else’s livelihood.

Your awesome Yarra Valley experiences will continue if we all preserve this wonderful place of production. Together, we can keep the Yarra Valley free of Queensland Fruit Fly. To learn more about Queensland Fruit Fly prevention in the Yarra Valley, look up Facebook “Keep Yarra Valley Fruit Fly Free” or the internet www.fruitflyreeyv.com.au Touristnews

FARM FRESH

PICK FRESH AND HAVE FUN JAY Berries is a family-owned berry farm located in the Yarra Valley and run by John and Jola Stewart.

It offers visitors a pick-your-own experience in Wandin East.

John and Jola have grown strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries for over 25 years and have diversified into tourism for the past eight years.

The weigh and pay system for u-pick gives visitors value for what they take home, especially for family groups where some people want large quantities of luscious fruit and others a small amount. An entry fee of $5 for those 5 years old and over and $2 for ages 2-4 years makes it affordable for family groups who want to share a great day out for all. The price per kilogram of berries does vary with the type of fruit but John and Jola said it is considered great value by those who visit regularly.

John said the farm is operated on safe-to-eat practices where chemical sprays are not used on any of the u-pick fruit or vegies. “We use nature to control nature and are happy with the results of safe and healthy berries for the customers,� he said.

Jay Berries also make their own jams and cordials from fresh berries which can be tasted before purchasing. “The natural berry flavours are unlike any others and have nothing artificial added to them, following the policy of fresh is best in all our products,� John said. “Our homemade berry slushies are a popular request on many customer’s lists after they have finished picking all the berries they desire, especially the young.�

For those who want to relax with the family there is indoor and outdoor seating or even a ride on the berry tractor which tours the property around the berry fields.

On the tour, visitors can hear how Jay Berries grows and maintains different crops in an eco-friendly way.

Freshly picked berries are also for sale in the shop and many people pre-order to ensure they get what they need.

Jay Berries is open six days a week 8.30am-4.30pm and closed every Saturday. The farm’s berry season runs from October to May depending on the seasonal weather, so there is plenty of time to enjoy picking in autumn when the weather is mild and the fruit is sweet.

Jola and John Stewart pick raspberries on their farm.

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Fresh & Fruity Family Fun This Autumn OPEN EVERYDAY 9AM - 4PM

We have U Pick Fruit ALL Year • FRUIT TASTING ADVENTURE TOURS Ride around the farm behind the tractor a covered trailer - discover a new fruit, sample tasty fruit in season, Pick your own fruit straight from the tree.

Suitable for ALL ages, eat as much as you like taste at least 8 fruit varieties.

Tour duration - 1 hour.

No bookings required

• JOIN US AT PEACH CAFE FOR LUNCH! Visit our farm cafe and check out our latest range of Jams, chutneys, preserved fruit & fruit leathers.

Visit our fruit plant nursery located on the farm stocking 100’s of fruiting plants, specialising in dwarf varieties.

5964 7654 12436626-SN52-19

60 Schoolhouse Rd, Woori Yallock 3139

pick fresh, have fun!

12435736-SN12-20

• FRUIT PLANT NURSERY

www.raynersorchard.com.au

s 5 0ICK BERRIES AND VEGETABLES s +IDS LOVE OUR "ERRY 4RACTOR RIDE s 2EFRESH WITH A REAL FRUIT FROZEN SLUSHY s %NJOY PRODUCTS MADE FROM OUR BERRIES s 2ELAX WITH A FRESH COFFEE s (OME MADE *AMS 6ISIT JAYBERRIES COM AU TO SEE WHAT S RIPE FOR PICKING /PEN 3UN TO &RI AM PM

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140 Wandin Creek Road Wandin East, Victoria AUTUMN 2020 31

GALLERY

AN AREA FOR ARTS AND CULTURE A tourist’s first thought about the Yarra Ranges’ biggest drawcard may be the stunning views or the incredible wineries.

But it shouldn’t be forgotten the region also plays host to a thriving, vibrant art community.

Throughout the Yarra Ranges, art-lovers don’t need to look too hard to find a great place to view some incredible pieces of art.

From the visually impressive Burrinja Cultural Centre in the south of the region, to the Tarrawarra Museum of Art in the north, and everything in between, there are plenty of reasons to stop in and discover local exhibition.

Take for example, YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub, which is quickly becoming an important asset for arts in the Yarra Valley community. Visitors can experience art by local and internationally acclaimed artists, attend workshops and enjoy musical and theatrical experiences.

Meanwhile, ponder a trip to the stunning Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in Lilydale, which features exhibition spaces, programs for all ages and abilities, a resource library, museum shop and more.

Here’s a list of some of the top selection of places to explore local art: • Arts Centre, Warburton • Tarrawarra Museum of Art • Yarra Ranges Regional Museum • William Ricketts Sanctuary • Sherbrooke Art Society • Burrinja Cultural Centre • YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub For more details, visit www.visityarravalley.com.au or www. visitdandenongranges.com.au.

Kate Baker and Jenny Reddin with her portrait of Dr Tony Jordan.

Picture: ROB CAREW

STEP INTO THEIR STUDIOS

BY DEREK SCHLENNSTEDT

NOW celebrating its 17th year, Dandenong Ranges Open Studios is an annual weekend event that invites you into the hidden creative spaces to meet, greet, and learn from extraordinary artists living in the hills.

With each studio space offering unique stories, histories and contexts, the weekend is an opportunity to get an exclusive ‘sneak peak’ into the vibrant making spaces of the Dandenong Ranges.

This year the program is bursting with 28 participating studios, including 10 studios participating for the first time, 6 artist collectives and the new aerie creative ecology artist studios at Burrinja.

Come and see what all the fuss is about on 9-10 May. Let your curiosity guide you through the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges in full autumn glory, the perfect backdrop for an incredible weekend.

Last year, this highly anticipated event saw over 7500 studio visitations.

This year’s program features some exciting and fresh creativity, including, Nerissa Box and her quirky animatronics, Chalom and his street art live art making experiences, Mathieu Dechamps and his exquisitely crafted knives, Eco printing with Jo Horswill and an entrancing look into children’s book illustration with Ilana Payes Greener.

Each studio involved in the program will also contribute a new work to a major group exhibition, WABI SABI; the beauty of imperfection. What is that?

32 AUTUMN 2020

There is no exact translation for the term ’Wabi Sabi’, but it is a concept within Japanese culture that encapsulates a view on the world.

There are so many interpretations of the theme but they centre around being perfectly imperfect. It’s a belief that nothing in life is finished, perfect or permanent.

Come and see what unfolds at the new Burrinja Gallery from April 23, 2020.

The easy-to-use Open Studios guidebook will be available from Burrinja and throughout the Hills , or head to the website openstudios.org.au where you can use the interactive map, book into one of the 28 workshops and events occurring over the weekend.

Touristnews

MARKETS

THE YARRA VALLEY’S SPICE THE Yarra Valley Herb and Chilli Festival started in 2012 as a local celebration of the taste and health benefits of using herbs and chillis.

The festival was started by Clive and Di Larkman as a way to promote their range of herbs, chillis and other edibles grown under the Renaissance Herbs’ brand.

They are true foodies and have a great love of food, wine and everything related.

They also have a passion for doing things right from day one and making sure that they always deliver a product above expectations.

They wanted their festival to be a fun, family event at which everyone involved has an amazing time and are pleased to be there.

“The festival has become a must-attend part of the food and wine scene in Melbourne,“ Clive said.

“It is a two-day celebration of how we use herbs and chillis in our daily lives through the presentation of food and drinks, sauces, plants and cultural gear associated with those cuisines that focus on spice and flavour.

“There will be a food court with dishes from 15 plus cuisines, four stages: lectures, cooking demonstrations, relaxed music and cultural dance and bands.

“Also, the Australian Chilli Cook-off is on each day. The competition stage has the Hellfire Chicken Wing Challenge, ‘Tequila Shot and Holler’ and the Captain Chilli eating competition.”

The festival is a family event so entry for under-14s is free and there is a kid’s area with jumping castles, face painting, pony rides and an animal farm (which are also all free).

H

Yarra Glen market brings together over 240 stallholders who regularly demonstrate pride in their work.

A range of boutique and craft breweries, local wine, excellent coffee and the world’s hottest spring roll and dim sims and Australia’s leading hot sauce companies will also be on site.

And for the sweet tooth, there are handmade chocolates, desserts and fresh fruit ice creams available.

It is also a chance to stock up the pantry with an amazing range of sauces, herbs, spices, rubs, blends, relishes and chutneys not to mention some unusual snacks like salami, jerky, pate and Turkish delight.

The 2020 Herb and Chilli Festival will take place on 14 to 15 March from 10am to 5pm at 125 Quayle Road in Wandin.

For more information and tickets, visit www.herbchillifestival. com.au.

EALESVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET INC. 8.00am - 1.30pm

River Street Car Park

Coronation Park

1st Sunday of the Month

3rd Sunday of the Month

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

12438822-NG12-20

Healesville River Street Markets

Contact: 0488 445 112 Large variety of Stalls including: s (OME MADE CAKES CANDLES CLOTHING CRAFT JAMS SOAPS s .EW CARPETS CLOTHING COLLECTABLES PAPER CARDS

SHOES TOOLS WOOL s 0LANTS BULBS CUT mOWERS POTTED PLANTS TREES SEEDLINGS ETC s 0RODUCE EGGS FRUIT VEGETABLES s 2ECYCLED BOOKS BRIC A BRAC $6$S #$S

CLOTHING FURNITURE s 4OOLS NEW OLD s (OT FOOD DRINKS AVAILABLE See us on 12405732-FA38-19

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AUTUMN 2020 33

DIRECTORY GALLERIES & GIFTS Den of Antiquities 25a Bell Street Yarra Glen Open: Wednesday - Monday 10.30am - 5pm 9730 2111 Ruby Tuesdays 90-94 Melbourne Hill Rd Warrandyte VIC 3113 Open 9am–5pm Mon - Friday Sat 9-4pm (03) 9844 4600 www.rubytuesday.com Art at Linden Gate 899 Healesville-Yarra Glen Rd Yarra Glen VIC 3776 Phone: (03) 9730 1862 artatlindengategallery.com.au artatlindengate@gmail.com 10am-5pm Fri-Mon & Public Hols Monbulk Jewellers 102 Main Rd, Monbulk VIC 3793 Phone: (03) 9756 7652 Open Mon Sat

MARKETS Eltham Community Craft & Produce Market Alistair Knox Park, Panther Place Eltham 3rd Sunday of every month 8.30am - 12.30pm 0401 288 027

ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANTS Monbulk Bowling Club 11 Moores Road Monbulk Bowling Club 97566183 Ferntree Gully Hotel 1130 Burwood Highway Ferntree Gully Hotel 9758 6544 www.ferntreegullyhotel.com.au Grand Hotel Healesville 270 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4003 www.healesvillegrandhotel.com.au Sanctuary House Restaurant & Resort Motel 326 Badger Creek Road Healesville 5962 5148 www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au York on Lilydale Resort Cnr York & Swansea Rd Mt Evelyn 9736 4000 www.yorkonlilydale.com.au Alpine Retreat 3340 Warburton Hwy Warburton VIC 3799 (03) 5966 2411 www.alpineretreat.com.au Cuckoo Restaurant 508 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Olinda VIC 3788 Menu: cuckoorestaurant.com.au Phone: (03) 9751 1003

Bollygum Market 40 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd, Kinglake VIC 3763 2nd Sunday of the Month

THROUGH THE CELLAR DOOR

Kallista Community Market 2 Church Street Kallista 1st Saturday of the Month 9am - 1pm 0402 012 247

Badger Creek Blueberry Farm St Ronans Cider 11 Garnook Grove Badger Creek 5962 1601 Open: Thurs - Mon 10am - 5pm www.blueberrywinery.com.au

Healesville Community Market River Street Car Park 1st Sunday of the Month Coronation Park 3rd Sunday of the Month 0488 445 112

Bottlemart Healesville Grand Green Street Healesville 5962 4003 www.bottlemart.com.au/specialsvic

Yarra Glen Craft Market Armstrong Grove Yarra Glen Craft Market 1st Sunday of the Month

Greenstone Vineyard 179 Glenview Rd Yarra Glen Open Thurs to Mon, 10am - 5pm 9730 1022 www.greenstonevineyards.com.au

34 AUTUMN 2020

Tokar Estate 6 Maddens Lane Coldstream Open 10.30am - 5pm Daily 5964 9585 www.tokarestate.com.au Sutherland Estate 2010 Melba Hwy Dixons Creek 0402 052 287 www.sutherlandestate.com.au Yileena Park 271 Steels Creek Rd Yarra Glen VIC 3775 Open- Mon- Sun 11am- 5pm (03) 9730 1977 www.yileenapark.com.au Wild Cattle Creek Estate 472 Warburton Hwy, Wandin North VIC 3137 Phone: (03) 5964 4755 www.wildcattlecreek.com.au

EMERGENCY CONTACTS FIRE, POLICE, AMBULANCE 000 Wildlife Victoria Emergency Response 1300 094 535 Fire Victorian Bushfire info line 1800 240 667 Belgrave Police Station 9754 6677 Emerald Police Station 5954 0200 Healesville Police Station 5962 4422 Lilydale Police Station 9730 1296 Yarra Glen Police Station 9730 1296 Belgrave Pharmacy 1639 Burwood Hwy Belgrave 9754 2001 Cockatoo Pharmacy 36/38 McBride St Cockatoo 5968 8555 Emerald Village Pharmacy 8 Kilvington Dr Emerald 5968 3023 Healesville Walk Pharmacy Healesville Walk Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4165 Healesville Pharmacy 215 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 5845

Monbulk Pharmacy 98 Main Rd Monbulk 9756 6273 Yarra Glen Pharmacy 34 Bell Street Yarra Glen 7930 1433

DOCTORS Belgrave Medical Clinic 1575 Burwood Hwy Belgrave 9757 8000 Get Well Clinic 408 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4030 Emerald Medical Centre 1 Murphys Way Emerald P: 5968 4622 Monbulk Family Clinic Yarra Valley Clinic 223 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4633 Yarra Valley Clinic 223-225 Maroondah Hwy Healeville 5962 4489 Yarra Glen Clinic 1 Symonds Street Yarra Glen 9730 2536

CAFES & GARDENS Warratina Lavender Farm 105 Quayle Rd Woori Yallock Open: Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 4pm 5964 4650 Allowyn Gardens 1210 Melba Highway Yarra Glen 9730 2400 www.alowyngardens.com.au Beechworth Bakery 316 Maroondah Highway Healesville Open daily 6.30am - 6pm 1300 233 784 www.BeechworthBakery.com.au Big Bouquet 27 Barak Lane Healesville Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm 5962 2283 Grants on Sherbrooke 70 Monbulk Rd Kallista Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm 9755 2888 www.grantsonsherbrooke.com.au

Touristnews

CALENDAR MARCH 20 20 20 20 21 21 24 27 28

Lotus Flower Season - Blue Lotus Water Garden, Yarra Junction, runs until 13 April. Inquiries: 5967 2061 Steam and Cuisine Luncheon - Puffing Billy, Belgrave.

Inquiries: 9757 0700 Peach and Nectarine Season at Rayner’s Orchard, Woori Yallock, runs until 31 March. Inquiries: 5964 7654 Experience Yesteryear Tour - Mont De Lancey Homestead, Wandin North, runs intermittently until 20 December. Inquiries: 5964 2088 Art Quilt Australia Exhibition at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, Lilydale, runs until 17 May. Inquiries: 1300 368 333 Mountain Bike Riding, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, Marysville, runs until April. Inquiries: 5957 7201 Summer of Live Music at Yarrawood Estate, Yarra Glen, runs Saturday and Sunday afternoons until 12 April.

Inquiries: 9730 2003 Murder on the Puffing Billy Express - Puffing Billy, Belgrave, runs intermittently until 12 December.

Inquiries: 9757 0700 Traditional High Tea at Chateau Yering Hotel, Yering, runs Saturdays and Sundays. Inquiries: 9237 3333

APRIL 1 2 7 8

Life Among the Gum Leaves Exhibition, Waterwheel Gallery, Warburton, runs until 3 April. Inquiries: 5966 9600 Alice in Wonderland by the Australian Shakespeare Company, The Memo , Healesville. Inquiries: 1300 368 333 Tesselaar Kabloom Festival of Flowers, Tesselaar Flower Farm, Silvan, runs until 19 April. Inquiries: 9737 7722 School Holiday Fun at Kinglake Forest Adventures, Kinglake West. Inquiries: 5771 1287

Touristnews

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Easter Egg Hunt, Warratina Lavender Farm, Wandin North, runs until 12 April. Inquiries: 5964 4650 The Big 90’s Party, Rochford Wines, Coldstream.

Inquiries: 5957 3310

MAY 3 8 9 23

Kalorama Chestnut Festival, Kalorama. Inquiries: 0435 721 726 Mother’s Day High Tea, Mary Eats Cake, Montrose, runs until 10 May. Inquiries: 8394 5661 Patchwork Quilt Exhibition, Warratina Lavender Farm, Wandin North, runs until 24 May. Inquiries: 564 4659 Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience, Country Place Hotel, Kalorama. Inquiries: 9728 7000

AUTUMN 2020 35

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