Bendigo Magazine - Issue 49 - Summer 2017

ISSUE 49 | SUMMER 2017/2018 www.bendigomagazine.com.au

G’DAY PETER

RUSSELL-CLARKE

living legend SCRUMPTIOUS SEASONAL DELIGHTS

LOADS OF

gift ideas ISSN 1833-1289

AUD $5.95 (Inc. GST)

gotta have faith FATHER ROB GALEA

TS STAY 2 NIGH RD NIGHT GET 3

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from the team

It’s been a funny year as far as seasons go. From a long and chilly winter, a hit-andmiss spring and then blasts of hot weather before it’s summer on our calendars. At least there is consistency in the variety of things to do throughout the region at this time of year.

There’s nothing more relaxing than laying out the picnic rug on a grassy area at one of Bendigo’s many parks and gardens and enjoying one of the many activities on offer through the Summer in the Parks 2017/2018. Or get together with friends and escape the heat inside one of the local galleries, marvelling at their vast permanent collections or enjoying the latest exhibition.

In this edition of Bendigo Magazine, Raelee Tuckerman speaks with world champion water skiier Jason Sleep, who became a pararaplegic after an accident in 2001 but hasn’t let that slow him down. Aussie folk musician Josh Pyke talks to Ben Cameron about self doubt and success and the cost of throwing your hat in the ring.

John Holton chats with BSSC alumna Rebecca Sutton about how her dream to write and publish has led down an interesting path in preserving an old craft, and Geoff Hocking muses about lying in his bed in London and drawing on memories of driving regional roads to curb his homesickness.

While it is the season to be jolly, it is also the season when families are packing the car and travelling to family festivities, holiday destinations and the like. Do take care on the roads this season.

Happy reading and Merry Christmas

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MANAGING EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dustin Schilling DEPUTY EDITOR Sue Turpie CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER David Field WRITERS Ben Cameron, Sarah Harris, Geoff Hocking, John Holton, Paula Hubert, Lauren Mitchell and Raelee Tuckerman CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Chesters, Justin McPhail and Finn Vedelsby EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHER Ashley Taylor PRINT MANAGER Nigel Quirk ADVERTISING advertising@bendigomagazine.com.au PO Box 5003 Bendigo, VIC 3550 Phone: 0438 393 198

Bendigo Magazine takes all care but accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Bendigo Magazine holds copyright to all content unless otherwise stated.

ISSN 1833-1289.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences including any loss or damage arising from reliance on information in this publication.

The views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the editor or the publisher.

events

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contents

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 11

G’day Peter - Peter Russell-Clarke

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Behind the scenes - Bendigo Tourism

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Balancing act - Josh Pyke

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Hidden meaning - Aimé Sacrez

PEOPLE & LIFE

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Perfecting imperfection - Rebecca Sutton

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Lasting legacy - Cameron Brown

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Keep on giving - The G.I.F.T.

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A community affair - Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market

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Distinguished changes - Catherine McAuley College

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A whole lot of love - Lot 19

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On the road again - Geoff Hocking

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Delivering hope - Bendigo Foodshare

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Totally cute - Tiny Sprout

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Following his faith - Father Rob Galea

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Giddy up girls - local women jockeys

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58 FOOD & WINE 71 Scrummy - grilled zucchini

and freekeh salad 72

Creative culinary - Starving Artist Food Co.

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It’s about the good life - Bendigo Foodstore

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Cool options - Finn Vedelsby

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Blow the froth off - Justin McPhail

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108 Wheelin’ em in

- Carla Phillips and Katie Kemp 111 It’s all about attitude

- Jason Sleep

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HOUSE & GARDEN 65

Local prezzie helper - gift guide

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Gifts for all year round - home styling

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Something old, something new - home feature

Wednesdays and Sundays Bendigo Town Hall Tour Bendigo Town Hall www.bendigotourism.com/tours Until January 21 Costume Designer: Edith Head and Hollywood Bendigo Art Gallery www.bendigoartgallery.com.au Until February 18 Arbor Temporis Momentum: Louiseann King Bendigo Art Gallery www.bendigoartgallery.com.au Until February 25 Summer in the Parks Various venues www.summerintheparks.com December 2 Belvoir Park and Wine Festival Belvoir Park Estate www.bendigotourism.com December 5 From Bach to Bing: David Hobson and Georgia Wilkinson The Capital www.thecapital.com.au December 8 Bendigo District RSL Twilight Market Bendigo District RSL www.bendigorsl.com.au Saturdays, December 16 to April 17 Moonlight Market Hargreaves Mall www.moonlightmarketbendigo.com.au December 17 Sunday Session at the Shiraz Republic Shiraz Republic www.shirazrepublic.com.au December 22 A Taste of Ireland The Capital www.thecapital.com.au January 6 Bendigo Pacing Cup Lords Raceway Trotting Track www.bhrc.com.au January 26 Australia Day Races Hanging Rock www.countryracing.com January 28 Chinese New Year Festival Golden Dragon Museum www.goldendragonmuseum.org February 2 Tapestry: The Songs of Carole King Ulumbarra Theatre www.thecapital.com.au February 3 and 4 Shen Yun: 5,000 Years of Civilisation Reborn Ulumbarra Theatre www.thecapital.com.au February 7 Marong Cup Bendigo Racecourse Bendigo.countryracing.com.au March 3 Scots Day Out Rosalind Park www.scotsdayout.com

SEE THE POTENTIAL

WITH A GIRTON HEADMASTER’S TOUR AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION SESSION

FRIDAY JANUARY 19 What we learn at school helps form our attitude to life. A positive and happy journey through their education can set a child on a confident pathway into life well beyond school.

To embrace the future with a positive mindset, a child needs more than just an excellent academic education.

They need their education to be memorable.

Memories are created through opportunity and our scholarships can have an immediate, personal and profound impact. Girton Grammar scholarships help students to fulfill their potential.

Scholarships strengthen the diversity of the School community, culturally, musically and academically.

Means tested scholarships can also ease financial burden and allow access to a first rate education to more children.

To discover the opportunities a Girton education or scholarship can provide for your child, please book your place on our Headmaster’s Tour on Friday 19th January by calling the Registrar on (03) 5441 3114 or by emailing: registrar@girton.vic.edu.au.

www.girton.vic.edu.au

ORPHUND February 14 to March 12, 2018 OrphFund is a volunteer-based organisation that provides housing for 350 children and schooling for 3500. As part of its sustainability model, new projects are focusing on farming and education, ensuring children under OrphFund’s care can break the cycle of poverty even after their funding has ended.

OrphFund will hold a photography exhibition in the Exhibit B space, located in Bendigo Bank Central. The exhibition will consist of photographs taken from OrphFund’s children’s villages in Africa over the past 12 years.

As part of the exhibition, an evening will be held from 5pm to 6.30pm on February 22 to raise money for OrphFund’s many projects. The public can come along and enjoy nibbles and a drink while learning about the organisation. Contact Issy for more information on 0417 831 708.

fun in the sun

The saying tells us to slip, slop, slap, but across the region we can also splash, sing and savour the memories with Summer in the Parks, new exhibitions and something a little curious.

BENDIGO THEATRE PROGRAM Various dates The countdown is on for The Capital to release its 2018 theatre season, but in the meantime the calendar is already packed with many options for a wonderful night out at the theatre.

Some of the big names coming up include opera singer and pop star Kate Miller-Heidke, as well as Scottish born singer-songwriter Colin Hay. One of the country’s favourite stage performers, David Hobson teams with

Georgia Wilkinson to perform From Bach to Bing.

In an evening of cultural entertainment there is a Taste of Ireland – A Christmas Spectacular with a heartfelt story told through music and dance.

And for the children, Dr Chris and Dr Xand, the stars of hit ABC Me television series Operation Ouch! are coming back to Australia with a new show.

For a list of other events coming up or to ensure your tickets for any of these performances, visit www.thecapital.com.au

SUMMER IN THE PARKS Whether or not budget is an issue this festive season, the 2017/2018 Summer in the Parks boasts a range of free or lowcost events for the whole family.

For locals, this initiative is a mustdo on their calendar, for visitors it is the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in fun and games at the many and varied gardens and parks across the city.

The program kicks off in December with the annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree on December 1 at Rosalind Park.

In January, enjoy outdoor cinema entertainment as well as community activities such as Australia Day celebrations and historical walking tours of the city. Get into the groove in February with a variety of music performances.

The full 2017/2018 Summer in the Parks program can be found online at www.bendigosummerintheparks.com.au

POST OFFICE GALLERY 15 December 2017 - 29 April 2018 The latest exhibition for the Post Office Gallery is Bendigo For Sunshine, Business and Pleasure ... and it is as intriguing as its name suggests.

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Once touted as ‘The Golden City’ and ‘Gateway to the North’, Bendigo has long been a popular destination for visitors in pursuit of business and recreation. The

eclectic promotional brochures, photographs, souvenirs, postcards and other ephemera featured in this exhibition will reveal how the city’s many assets and attractions have been uniquely promoted through the decades to entice visitors from far and wide.

For details visit www.bendigoartgallery.com.au

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TABLE TALK CLASSES Bernadette, owner of Table Talk Classes, established her business as an avenue for sharing years of knowledge gained while working in the food industry.

“It was important to provide a relaxed environment where anyone regardless of their skill level could not only learn about cooking, but also realise the satisfaction in being able to create and present good food,” Bernadette says. “You will never enjoy the art of cooking until you are comfortable around food.”

top guns

Here are some great choices when it comes to food, decor and fun in the sun.

Table Talk believes everyone has something to offer at their classes.

Participants are welcome to come on their own, or bring friends and family. “We guarantee you will have a great fun night and without realising,” Bernadette says. “And you’ll leave with the confidence and enthusiasm to take on the wonderful world of food which is waiting for you. Just take that step and start cooking.”

HOUSE OF KHONG It’s been 40 years since Jeannie and Allan opened the doors to their House of Khong in Hargreaves Street, Bendigo. If only the walls could talk, they would tell of satisfied customers, loyal staff members, and delicious food created in their experienced kitchen.

Visit www.tabletalkclasses.com for more information.

House of Khong offers a range of Chinese and Thai cuisine through both their extensive dinein or take-away menus. Thousands of central Victorians and visitors to the area have taken in the ambience created in their Chineseinfluenced décor.

The restaurant has become an icon amongst locals and it is certain that Jeannie and Allan will continue to dish up authentic Asian food for many years to come.

Happy birthday House of Khong. For further information on the restaurant including a full menu for take-away or home delivery, visit their website www.houseofkhong.com.au or phone 5442 5088 to make a booking.

FRONT BEACH TORQUAY With summer almost here, it’s the perfect time to plan that family holiday. Front Beach Torquay have beach accommodation that is picture perfect, and superb for the family. All you need to do is rock up and unpack, then walk across the road to the family-friendly, and pet-friendly beaches of Torquay.

The stand-alone apartments each include

off-street parking, and have enclosed rear entertainment areas suitable for children and dogs. Each apartment has two bedrooms, and is equipped for the family.

The dogs are welcome inside too so long as they have their own bedding and owners clean up after them.

For more information on Front Beach Torquay, visit frontbeachtorquay.com or phone 0408 395 312.

SPLASHBACKS ARE US When it comes to putting that allimportant splashback in your kitchen, Splashbacks Are Us is a one-stop shop.

This local business boasts a range of more than 10 different splashback materials making it easy to choose the perfect option for any space, whether it’s the home, office or accommodation.

Clients can be renovating or building or

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simply looking for that something special to give their kitchen a fresh look.

For a contemporary look choose glass, with countless choices of colour, and high gloss finish, or go for stainless steel to create an industrial look.

There is a manmade variety of stone and a variety of tiles to create any look from French provincial to Australian country.

Phone 0428 181 242 for a quote or visit splashbacksareus.com.au.

29 September 2017 – 21 January 2018 A significant collection of Hollywood history honouring the career of multi-award winning costume designer Edith Head.

Tickets: www.bendigoartgallery.com.au

Open 10am –5pm Monday – Sunday including public holidays 03 5434 6088 42 View Street Bendigo Victoria

There’s so much more than giant undies full of people in Season 2018.

Launching December 12 Download the program at gotix.com.au or call Box Office on 5434 6100 and we’ll snail mail you a copy.

Proudly owned and operated by the City of Greater Bendigo

Circus Oz – Model Citizens C M Y K

18 0 100 31

Photographer: Rob Blackburn C M Y K

0 0 0 100

C M Y K

0 100 100 0

C M Y K

0 30 100 0

C M Y K

100 72 0 32

g'day

Peter

Settled amongst the hills of Heathcote, Aussie artist and satirist Peter Russell-Clarke reflects on a life that is as unique and full of interest as his art.

By Sue Turpie When talking with Peter Russell-Clarke it’s hard to believe that his life hasn’t been made into a mini-series. There is as much colour and story in his lifetime as you would find in any one of his paintings. Yet he offers his stories, covering eight decades, without any suggestion or want for sympathy or empathy; he is just telling it like it is. This is what makes him such a likeable person, beyond being one of the country’s most distinctive celebrities. His upbringing would also explain why he is so accepting and respectful of other cultures, and his experience as a political commentator means when he offers an opinion on the state of politics he is drawing on a wealth of observational experience.

Peter lives with his wife, Jan, just outside of Heathcote, hidden away in the undulating landscape scattered with volcanic rock. Admiring the beauty of the area and the home, it is hard to imagine that some years ago, the original house had been destroyed by fire. Peter and Jan had to rebuild their lives from the ground up and the new house is as rich in character as the couple themselves.

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There is a mix of art and artefacts throughout. A beautiful dining table that would seat a family of 20-plus, and large windows offerings views of the hillsides and the house’s array of plants potted on the large outdoor area. The garden is thriving much to the delight of the local birdlife. It seems there is a battle of wits between Peter and a couple of cockies eyeing off one of his beloved plants. The couple moved to the area after selling their farm.

“We were raising sheep and cattle,” Peter explains. “We bred them on the Bellarine and then moved them up to a place we had between Portland and Hamilton. Fattened them up there and then put them on the boat to ship them off to the Arabs. We weren’t very successful, so we sold up the farms and moved up here. This place reminds me of where I was brought up, same ground, the rocks, the hills, and good people. I preferred this area as opposed to the Bellarine which was flat and uninteresting.”

With an unending list of cook books to his name, a career in media as an iconic TV personality and a unique artist, it’s warming to hear Peter speak so fondly of the area, and its restaurants.

“Bendigo has the Malayan Orchard for instance, my favourite Asian restaurant. The food is not only elegant and imaginative but it’s considered and well cooked. I had a series of foster parents. At one stage I was brought up by a Chinese family and my mother and father didn’t speak English. They were very traditional Chinese and therefore I have an affinity with Chinese and Asian food and possibly one of my major clients for painting is Malaysian, and they invited me to go over and cook with the Malaysian Professional Chefs Association, which I found not only an honour but it was fascinating.

“I eventually met my biological father when I was in my 20s, he was an Englishman, a defrocked priest from the church of England, and to get his own back on the Anglicans he had me brought up as a Catholic,” Peter laughs. “He put me in a boarding school in New South Wales but he never paid the fees. The nuns, during the depression, were very good to me but had to kick me out. But they put me with a good Catholic family who could only look after me for three months and I moved on.

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“It was an interesting and fascinating time, but it also allowed me to experience different food and possibly connected with my artwork.

I’ve been a practising artist all my life; food and painting to me use colour, texture, form, shape … they’re basically the same. I used to be the political cartoonist on The Melbourne Herald, and wrote on politics and opinion pieces for The Age, The Daily Mirror and so on, so I found writing painting and cooking similar because you’re expressing something.”

Beyond the Malayan Orchard, Peter has other links to Bendigo. He’s the chairman of Regional Reach Advertising and recently had an exhibition of his work at Fortuna. He did his national service with topographical surveying, of which head printing works were in Fortuna.

“We did most of our training down on the coast, but all the brass, the big boys, were at Fortuna. I get to visit it now that I’ve grown up, and with the owner being a mate … different from being a corporal and getting my butt kicked every day, now I’m swanning around the place,” he says with a chuckle.

It all sounds exciting, but Peter also explains the reality that comes with the life of the artists and how, despite having a famous name he still has the same concerns that any family has when it comes to finances. Overflowing creativity is one thing, but work still needs to be exhibited and sold.

“I paint nearly every day, so you end up with a stack of work and stack of bills,” he says. “I’ve never really been employed. Even at the newspapers I was still freelance. And with art, once you’ve had an exhibition in one spot you can’t go back there for another five or so years. In the meantime, I’ve still got to live. It’s a bit of a bugger, so that’s the reason the cooking, the painting, and I still draw cartoons, and the writing still need to be done.”

When tragedy struck, in the shape of the major fire, Peter lost two exhibitions of paintings and four manuscripts. A terrible blow. He’s since rewritten them and continued to produce an amazing amount of work. Wondering through his studio, there is a sea of colour and eyecatching depictions of various themes. As Peter explains the idea is not to just have someone look at your work, but to have them question what you’re trying to convey as an artist. The trick is to keep ahead of the fashion so you aren’t painting what everyone else is. It’s a delicate operation.

“I like to create a story and then put that into colour, shape and form.

Then try and design some food around it,” he laughs, ”and hope some silly bugger buys it.” I’m sure they will, Peter. See ya later.

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Beautiful gifts l

Discover quality souvenirs made in Bendigo and region.

Indulge with artisan gifts and delicious treats to take home and savour your Bendigo experience.

Unearth the stories of our history makers from gold to food or artists spaces with our broad range of local authors. www.uniquelybendigo.com.au

Reveries

NOVEMBER 15, 2017 – FEBRUARY 11, 2018 Three artists from Bendigo and region present an evocative exhibition including watercolour paintings of Europe and the Mediterranean region by Terry Jarvis, steel sculptures by David Dawson of Overwrought and fine ceramics by Maria Vanhees.

Open daily 9am-5pm, entry by donation.

BENDIGO VISITOR CENTRE Open 9am to 5pm daily (except Christmas Day) 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo • 03 5434 6060 • tourism@bendigo.vic.gov.au www.bendigotourism.com • #Explore Bendigo

OTIS NIGHT OF NIGHTS

Volunteers from Bendigo branches of Bendigo Bank

Richard and Simone Richard and Burley Sandy and Peter Dikschei

Liz and Richard Nash

Pink n Teal Cancer Support Group with MC Angela Pippos and OTIS Founder, Andrew Barling

Rachel Mason, Angela Pippos and Carlie Ryan

Paul Gray and Kellie Martin

It was a sold-out extravaganza, with a magnificently themed ballroom at Crown Casino the location for the 2017 OTIS Foundation Biennial Ball, the organisation’s signature fundraising event.

This prestigious evening saw guests beautifully dressed enjoying fine dining and dancing the night away to high calibre performances from guest entertainers. There were guest speakers, a raffle and silent auction all to raise much-needed funds for those who need a break away.

Photos courtesy Tim Mullane www.sustainableimage.com.au

BEST WESTERN CATHEDRAL MOTOR INN Situated 500m from the CBD and adjacent to the beautiful Sacred Heart Cathedral • Featuring 31 spacious rooms • Wireless broadband and complimentary Austar • All rooms include a queen size bed with spa rooms available • Breakfast service available

96 High Street, Bendigo p: 03 5442 5333 | www.cathedralmotorinn.com.au

Bec Lacy and Charlotte Murphy

Bec Sexton and Anna Wakefield

ALL FUN AT ANNUAL RUN Clare Gillett and Charles Chilvers

Trudy Randell, Beck Beattie and Julie Lock

Eve Ritchens and Colby Madill

Jordan Mathews, Ethan Mathews and Nathan Jones-Stibbe

Every year the Bendigo Bank annual Fun Run goes from strength to strength.

This year, as for many years previously, thousands of feet pounded the city’s pavements to raise funds for Bendigo Health. Competitors walked and ran the course, took part in the Tracy Wilson relay, as well as enjoyed socialising before and after the event.

behind the scenes Like any success story, the hard work goes on in the background while the star takes centre stage. This is true of our city and how those at the tourism helm keep it in the spotlight.

Bendigo is a major player on the world stage when it comes to tourism, but it isn’t a position that has been obtained simply through luck or merely being in the right place at the right time. Behind the scenes is a dedicated team that ensures the region is continuously being promoted through media, publications, agencies and those who have influence over who goes where and what’s on trend when it comes to travel.

As Glenn Harvey, Marketing Manager with the City of Greater Bendigo’s Tourism and Major Events team, explains, their job is to “influence the influencers”.

One such example is a contingent of journalists from China and Hong Kong who write for fashion blogs and lifestyle publications. While they were in Melbourne for the Dior exhibition, they took 24 hours out to visit Bendigo. During this one day, Bendigo Tourism were on hand to show them the best of what the city has to offer, and hopefully entice them to promote the area to followers and fans.

TOP: Greg Grainger from Travel Oz interviewing Anita Jack at the Golden Dragon Museum RIGHT: Marilyn takes over Melbourne’s publications last year

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LEFT AND MIDDLE LEFT: Hong Kong and China Media Visit MIDDLE RIGHT: The Urban List Melbourne taking photos BOTTOM: New Zealand travel agents visiting The Great Stupa

A big hit with this group was Birney the Cat, a permanent furry resident ambassador at the Bendigo Tramways.

“It’s about knowing those unique gems that help showcase Bendigo’s brand and what will appeal to their audience,” Glenn explains. “We’re quite intuitive about what’s going to work, but you always find out something new. This one was for media so it’s about having the right stories. You take them on a tailored tour that’s action-packed so they are presented with as many ideas as possible.”

Different mediums are catered for and sought after to promote the area, whether it is journalistic writing for print and website, bloggers, social media influencers or television shows.

An example is the Today Show which recently visited Bendigo.

“Over time we have learned to understand what format will appeal to different mediums, and we knew with television they would want something hands on and entertaining but still getting that Bendigo tourism-aspect in there,” Glenn says.

“We worked with Visit Victoria to get the Today Show here, pitching an itinerary which they have to sign off on. And we put up options and work with them to get the right range of experiences so when it’s on camera it feels very natural.

“We then work closely with our tourism industry businesses to ensure that a great experience is provided. Weather presenter Natalia Cooper was croissant-making at a central café, then in a bank vault at Rocks on Rosalind talking about Bendigo Uncorked Week as well as looking at the annual tulip display near the conservatory, and then driving the Dja Dja Wurrung Tram.”

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The Today Show’s weather presenter Natalia Cooper filming at Bendigo’s Annual Tulip Display

ABOVE LEFT: Jane Seymour exploring Chancery Lane on her visit to Bendigo ABOVE RIGHT: Greg Grainger from Travel Oz filming at the Bendigo Tramways The process can take a number of months, from approaching them to partner with us, pitching an idea and then it coming to fruition either with the visit of the TV crew or media representatives travelling from across the globe to do a “famil”.

It isn’t as simple as Travel Oz pulling into the city centre and taking a lucky shot with a local business. The goal is to reach members of the public and for Bendigo to be the place they think of when looking for something to do.

“It’s about having the ability to inspire someone,” Glenn says. “If a person lives in Melbourne, which is a city with plenty of things to offer, we need to motivate them to come to Bendigo and that’s not an easy task. When we’re pitching ideas to something like The Urban List Melbourne, we need an idea that’s new or undiscovered, captivating and unique.”

The way Bendigo Tourism moves forward is through campaigns which work around seasons, promoting major events, and experiences. They look at national and international marketing opportunities working with traditional and digital channels. The work and information involved in even one season of campaigning is enough on its own to fill a magazine. And beyond this are countless partners and organisations involved in the broader plan.

However, the foundation of Bendigo Tourism’s success are the relationships it has built with publications, sponsors, fellow tourism bodies, travel agents, governments, local tourism businesses and more. Its work with Bendigo Art Gallery during the past two decades is immeasurable. The city can also boast that it was the most searched destination by Australian on TripAdvisor in 2016. With such a dedicated team on board, these relationships, as well as the region’s reputation as a must-see destination, is certainly assured.

Follow ExploreBendigo on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.bendigotourism.com 21

Alanah Winzar, Lisa Lemmey, Kathleen Keane, Melissa Lee and Brenda Keane

Demy Pye, Liv Clark and Paige Catanese

Pat Wood and Cate Caddy

Danny Archer, Peta Bell, Jessie Beazley and Nathan Button

Taylah Pratt, Shane Fitzgerald, Nathan Cook and Travis Johnston

Sophie Dean and Meghan Frederick

AND THEY’RE OFF The Bendigo Jockey Club was again the perfect host for thousands trackside for this year’s Jayco Bendigo Cup. Fascinators, bow ties, and panama hats. Champagne, canopies and craft beer. There was no shortage of stylish ensembles, food or drink at the biggest event on the city’s racing calendar.

Youngsters enjoyed Sidetrack’d, complete with DJ, while there was the Myer Fashions on the Field, and activities for the children.

Grace Leahy, Maddison Curtin and Miranda Vogel

Shaun Bennie and Darcy Walsh

Annie Kinross and Sophie Fawcett

Ella Neivandt and Alysha Elliott

Kaitlin Waterson and Jess Carew

Oakley Roberts, Georgina Hill and Hannah McHardy

Mikayla Stumpe, Bridget Hayes, Chloe Pangrazio and Ella Sbrugnera

BENDIGO, AUSTRALIA

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joolsforjim.com

balancing act

Folk artist Josh Pyke reflects on anxieties, outlays, proud moments and what’s really important.

By Ben Cameron Aussie folk luminary Josh Pyke has come completely full circle.

He estimates the break could take as long as two years.

For many years, he couldn’t bring himself to listen to his seminal album, Memories and Dust.

“I wouldn’t exactly call it a hiatus, I’m just going to take a break from the standard, full on album touring cycle that I’ve been doing for 13 years,” he says.

Pyke recalls listening back to the mastered product at his home in Newtown more than ten years ago and freaking out.

“I couldn’t stand it,” he says.

“For so long you’d make an album and tour it for two years.

“I didn’t listen to it for years and years and years (after). I remember ... feeling horrible.

“It’s been amazing, I’ve loved every second of it, but I just feel like I want to get out of that cycle for a while.”

“I was like ‘Oh my god, this is terrible, nobody’s going to like this’.”

After years of relative navel gazing, Pyke is simply craving something beyond himself.

The public was a great deal more forgiving, making it a gold record.

“For such a long time I’ve made an album, gone out on the road and toured it for two years,” he says.

Pyke is now revelling in the nostalgia — a concept he once loathed — for an upcoming tour where he’ll play Memories and Dust in full.

“It’s been long enough now, I can be as close to objective about it,” he says.

Pyke is also about to embark on a road much less travelled, too.

After working with esteemed actor Justine Clarke — writing and producing music for her upcoming childrens TV show, Ta Da! — Pyke began to question whether there was more to life than the relentless cycle of a solo musician.

“I found it incredibly gratifying,” he says of his work on the ABC show.

“Those things have been difficult to do when I’m in that cycle.

“When you’re doing your own album and touring, you’re kind of stuck in this world where you can never detach yourself from the creative process because it’s so personal for you.

“I just wanted to engage less in myself for a while (laughs).”

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“Just doing the same thing, again and again.

“I just feel I want to get out of that cycle for a while. I’ve feeling like that cycle is a little bit less relevant than it used to be.

“It’s not an interesting scenario anymore.”

A brave new direction is perhaps a return to Pyke’s glorious past.

He remembers being saddled with burgeoning debt before Memories and Dust was released, after quitting his day job at a record store to pour his entire heart, soul and bank account into the record.

“I remember I supported John Butler around the country, it was a hugely important tour for me,” he says.

“I had a full band, that tour actually cost me $20,000.

“But I needed to do it, you’ve gotta throw your hat in the ring.

“It allowed me to have a career,” he says.

“I was slowly digging myself out of the debt that I’d accrued from pursuing music and going on tour for a couple of years prior to that with (EP) Feeding The Wolves.

“When I was going to my gold record dinner with the record company for Memories and Dust, I was house sitting at my in laws’ house.

“I caught the bus because I didn’t have any money.”

Ten years on, some things have stayed the same, like song writing.

“Song writing has always been a way of processing what’s going on in my own head,” he says.

“My place in the world, I guess.

“I’m still doing it today, things about balance, death and what kind of person I want to be, staying in the moment.

“I’ve always got an issue with always looking ahead to the next thing, rather than appreciating what I have.

“Although I’ve changed a lot, I’m still trying to remind myself of the fundamental flaws in my personality.”

Pyke points to Monkey With A Drum as the song he’s most proud of.

“I still listen to that, everything that I wanted to say about how I felt about the industry and the point in life I was at, still really resonates with me,” he says.

“Every creative decision I make, I say to myself I have to feel comfortable with it because I want it to sound right for ten, 20 years.

“The artists who want long careers have to do it, you can’t hedge your bets all the time.”

“It’s probably meant I’ve been played less on the radio, but at least I’m happier about the songs I’ve released.

He’ll be forever thankful for the record.

“I’ve never written with an agenda.”

25

Willow Francis Sammy and Taylor Perkins

Bridget, Tara and Alana Glozier

Rilee Coulson and Sarah Bateson

Kimaya Spruce and Ally Wilson

Sue, Scott, Gemma and Claudia Hardingham

Hannah Donnelly, Lacey Gibson and Hayley Stewart

STEP RIGHT UP Circus clowns, utes, sheep, carnival rides … each year the Bendigo Agricultural Show brings together a winning mix of attractions and events.

This year, children of all ages watch the monster trucks run amuck, while there were ribbons aplenty adorning various cakes, vegetables, animals and crafts in the sheds.

There was also the world-class wood chopping and massive fireworks displays to mark the end of the iconic annual event.

#GiveBack Four generations of the Cook family have been involved with Bendigo Health and they are thrilled to support the New Bendigo Hospital Appeal.

“My grandfather, father, wife and daughter have all worked for Bendigo Health. My 3 children and several grandchildren were born here. And that’s why we GiveBack to Bendigo Health”

There are many ways you can give back.

To find out more call 1300 243 000 or visit: bendigohealthfoundation.org.au/giveback

-Robert ‘Cookie’ Cook

David Field and Evonne Oxenham

Lois Barker, Elizabeth Murphy and Jane McDermott

Max Mollard, Kathryn Mackenzie and Doug Lougoon

Paul and Karen Greblo

TALKING TOURISM Officials and guests came together at Fortuna Villa for Bendigo Tourism’s recent annual general meeting.

Sharon Carlson and Kathie Bolitho

Wes and Pam Vine

Guest speaker at the networking event was Rick Sleeman, managing director of Sports Marketing Australia. Rick discussed the value of the ‘sports tourist’.

- AdvertIseMent -- AdvertIseMent AdvertIseMent --

Lisa Chesters MP - a strong VoiCe for Bendigo Lisa Chesters Lisa Chesters MP MP -- a a strong strong VoiCe VoiCe for for Bendigo Bendigo federal Member for Bendigo Ifederal am honoured to have been elected as the Federal Member for Bendigo.

Member for Bendigo federal Member for Bendigo As your Federal to Member of Parliament, my office and I can provide a II am honoured have elected Federal Member for am honoured to have been been elected as as the the Member for Bendigo.

Bendigo.

As your Federal Member of Parliament, myFederal office and I can provide a wide range of services.

As your Federal Member of Parliament, my office and can a wide range of services and support.

As your Federal Member of in Parliament, my office and IIeither can provide provide a Please don’t hesitate to get touch with me anytime, at my office wide range of services. wide range services. on (03) 5443of9055 or by lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au Please don’t hesitate to email get inat touch with me anytime, either at my Please don’t hesitate to touch with me Please don’t hesitate to get getorin inby touch with me anytime, anytime, either either at at my my office office office on (03) 5443 9055 email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au on (03) 5443 9055 or by email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au on (03) 5443 9055 or by email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au

www.lisachesters.org Authorised by L Chesters, 16 Myers Street, Bendigo www.lisachesters.org www.lisachesters.org

lasting legacy

Cameron, Felicity, Carol and Tony Brown

It was a life too short, but the memory of Cameron Brown won’t be forgotten thanks to an innovative fund he established to inspire Queen’s College students, as well as the love and friendship he gave to his family and those lucky enough to have known him.

Upon his return to Melbourne in October 2015 after being diagnosed in London with brain cancer in 2014, former Bendigo man Cameron Brown, along with some friends, decided to establish an on-going innovation fund. The ‘Cameron Brown Community Innovation Fund’ was to actively honour Cameron’s memory by inspiring students from Queen’s College at Melbourne University to engage in innovative community based projects for decades to come. The inaugural project: ‘Bird Boxes for 28

a Beautiful City’ was the initiative of Queen’s College students Oliver Tonks, Rory Kelleher, Cameron Everett and Jasper Mylius who were awarded $5000 earlier this year to bring their vision to life.

Cameron Brown was a remarkable man whose life ended too soon. At the start of 2016, at age 35, Cameron passed away from brain cancer, but he made every minute count, right to the end. After receiving the diagnosis

Cameron started an online blog about his journey. That he titled his blog ‘Browny and the Brain’ shows his true quality even in the face of glioblastoma. Soldiering on no matter what life throws at you. Looking any challenge square in the eye, throwing a few jokes at it, and doing what you have to do. What Cameron achieved during his short life is remarkable, and his legacy as a dedicated student, enthusiastic sportsman, loving son, brother, husband, and honoured friend will continue,

got him out of class,” they joked. “Not that he wasn’t academic. He was competitive, even the music teacher said. He threw himself into life.”

Stephen Storer met Cameron when he became his tennis coach years ago. Over time Cameron came to work as assistant coach for Stephen and also became his lifelong friend. Stephen was already planning to travel overseas when Cameron’s parents told him that Cameron was unwell. It was 2015, Cameron was still in London when the diagnosis was given and treatment began.

Stephen made sure that there was a stop-over.

Cameron’s friends Nick Devidas and Stephen Roux set up a Go Fund Me to help Cameron get back to Australia, but due to his condition the airlines wouldn’t let him fly. It was only when Cameron’s doctor friend from Perth, Vince Anderson, a mate from Flora Hill High School days, offered to fly to London to accompany Cameron and Nikki home that an airline agreed to transport him. The actions of his friends, along with the support of Queen’s College in establishing the innovation fund, are testimonies to the genuine character of Cameron who will be forever missed and remembered.

“He was a lovely lad,” Stephen says. “Just a ripping young bloke. The eulogies read at his service were the most heartfelt that I’ve ever heard. They got him home just in time.”

The fundraising for the award is ongoing and people are welcome to donate in honour of Cameron. For further information visit http://bit.ly/CamBrownFund

thanks to the people whose lives he touched, and the innovation fund offered through Queens College in his name.

Cameron grew up in Junortoun, attending Strathfieldsaye Primary School, Flora Hill High School, as it was then known, and Bendigo Senior Secondary College, where he was joint dux with Rachel Poustie in 1998. He was awarded a scholarship to study science at the University of Melbourne from 1999 to 2001 and was accepted into Queen’s College where he met his future wife Nikki. He also completed his MBA at the London Business School, and even earned himself a world ranking thanks to winning the Cambridge Royal Tennis Club Championships.

To list all of Cameron’s achievements here just isn’t possible. Speaking with his parents and friends, it seems that Cameron succeeded at anything he set his sights on whether it was for himself, family, friends or to help the environment.

“He was outgoing and sporty. It was mainly tennis in Bendigo, but also volleyball and basketball … cricket for a while.” His parents fondly remember he enjoyed “anything that 29

hidden meaning

Through his studies, work and life, artist Aimé Sacrez has uncovered more questions than answers, which seems to be just the way he likes it.

By Lauren Mitchell Aimé Sacrez has been asking some big questions this year – of himself, and others. It’s the by-product of a curious mind. It’s about a quarter of the way through his Bendigo Magazine interview when he tips the scales and starts posing questions back; “can you think of a time in your life when you experienced really meaningful learning?” he asks.

30

Yes, I can, quite profoundly so. But this story is not about me, so I serve that question right back at him.

For Aimé, a pivotal learning moment came in his mid-teens. “I always loved drawing and painting,” he says. “When I was 15 I had the chance to spend some time with an oil painter and I stayed with him for a week. It was wonderful seeing someone do something I loved

“I went to Florence when I was 17 then worked as a portrait painter for many years in England,” he says. He specialised in aristocratic work and says the most famous person who sat for him was Prince Charles’ personal secretary.

After Aimé met his Japanese wife, Yuko, the couple decided to settle back in Australia. They travelled at first, looking for the perfect place to live. “And Bendigo was it,” Aimé says. “It had a beautiful feeling to it, with lovely old architecture and grand buildings like the cathedral that you’d expect to see in Europe. And it was incredibly affordable.”

Aimé and Yuko bought a historic Victorian, renovated their new home, welcomed a second child into the family and settled in. However, although Aimé says he found a vibrant and supportive arts community here, he struggled to continue making a living from art alone.

“So I got a job as a gymnastics coach – I’d been a gymnast as a boy,” he says. “I loved that job. As part of it I started teaching school groups and interacting with the students. I became really interested in helping children develop their own interests. I’ve been really lucky in my life to be able to pursue my passions. I think it’s important for young people to have ambitious goals and to be able to pursue those goals.”

The realisation led him to enrol at La Trobe. Now in the final stages of his degree, his focus has shifted from working directly with children to helping influence the people who do. “Over time I became more interested in the theory of learning and education – which is another side of university,” he says. “So in my fourth year I decided to do my honours and delve a little deeper into that.

“I wanted to go beyond the bare minimum. There is a depth of knowledge at university that’s open to all students, there’s no limit to how much you can learn if you go beyond just the assessment tasks.

I think more students should see uni as a place where they can also create knowledge, rather than work to other people’s ideas.”

because I’d never seen it done before. I learned a lot of techniques from him. I can remember a few distinct times when I felt my learning had been meaningful and it wasn’t in a classroom.”

That last statement is relevant as Aimé is in his final year of a Bachelor of Education at La Trobe University. This year he’s also completed an honours project around the question of what makes for meaningful learning.

Not long after his week with the oil painter, Aimé started working on a portfolio in an attempt to gain a scholarship to study art overseas.

For the portrait he chose a 92-year-old woman living with dementia in a nursing home. “When I was painting her portrait alone in my room I felt a deep connection to artists past through the process and it was really powerful,” he says. “There was an authenticity to it because I was doing what many others had done before me. Now I think, wouldn’t it be nice if school was like that? Could it be?”

Those early years behind the canvas inspired a whole other life before Aimé would consider a career in the classroom. He didn’t get the scholarship, but left his home city of Townsville for Italy anyway to study fine art at a college in Florence. His travels were funded through years of drawing caricatures of tourists on the Townsville streets.

Aimé says another meaningful learning experience is the one he’s having right now with his honours project. “This is possibly because the product or content reflects my own personal interest, but most importantly I have built a strong relationship with my honours supervisor, Dr Scott Alterator,” he says. “He is an inspiring role model to me. I am also grateful to the lecturers who run the honours program.”

Aimé has been working with a Bendigo primary school, interviewing teachers and students and observing them in the classroom to answer his question of meaningful learning. He says what’s meaningful is different for all of us, but there are some commonalities to set this up, such as having a good relationship with the teacher, an interest in the topic and an enjoyment of the processes.

“I find it quite a creative process, the research,” he says. “For me it’s similar to my art. I do a lot of charcoal drawings, which is a process of trying to create something concrete from vague intuition. This is similar to research. It’s about distilling a lot of different ideas into something simple. It also has to be authentic to the artist, or researcher, yet universal enough so other people can relate to it.”

A day after sharing his story, Aimé receives news he has been chosen as a winner in this year’s prestigious international Undergraduate Awards Program. Aimé’s essay submissions were two of 6432 from students in 299 institutions across 47 countries. One essay was judged to be in the top 10 per cent, resulting in a Highly Commended mention and the other won the Oceanic Region category. But there’s little time to celebrate…

Aimé is in the thick of writing a proposal to pursue a PhD in 2018.

He’s got more questions. So many questions.

31

FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD, ANIMALS AND LIFE The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion hosted the Vegecarian Festival encouraging people to care for their health and care for animals through an increase in a vegetarian diet.

Andrea, Ava and Fiona Liebert

Annie Morabito and Mickey Levis

Katie Hannah and Alissa Van Soest

Ellamay Smith, Michelle Tite and Rio Smith

Emily Finnemore and Jayde Robinson

Helen, Anthony, Lachlan, Mikayla and Felix Mason

The free, family-friendly event included activities and stalls such as cooking demonstrations, veggie gardening workshops, vegetarian and vegan food stalls, pet care information, animal blessings, yoga sessions and family entertainment. Of course, people were welcome to bring their pets along.

TABLE TALK CLASSES Bernadette will guide you through a 3 hour step-by-step class, where you will learn to master a range of delicious recipes.

Enjoy a glass of wine and your meal after class and re-create your dishes at home with our easy to follow recipe booklets.

Group bookings of 8-10 people $75 per person 6-9pm Tuesday or Friday nights M: 0420 3122284 E: gasheehan@gmail.com ď‚‚ / TableTalkClasses

Cameron Fields and Leroy Miller

Isabella Canfield and R2D2

IN A GALAXY NOT VERY FAR FAR AWAY Sarah-Anne Bibby

Jade and Josh Mertens

Fans of super heroes, sci fi’s goodies and baddies, and all things out of this world, were at the annual Bendigo Record Comic and Toy Fair.

The array of costumes was inspiring, as the likes of Thor, Wonder Woman and half the Heathens were at the Bendigo Showgrounds for this iconic event.

Sophie Williams and Ruby Power

Tim Jones and Oscar Van Rooyen

It was also an opportunity to raise funds for the Peter Mac Institute.

Step up to new opportunities

BSSC 2018 Our ROLE is to empower learners for individual, community and global leadership. We value Respect, Optimism, Learning and Environment.

“BSSC has allowed me to meet new people and build valuable connections, particularly in the music department. The opportunities to perform regularly have been amazing. In 2018 I’m looking forward to continuing my musical projects, such as my band Sketchy Essentials, and to keep improving my songwriting.”

BRAD WO ODWARD “Being able to choose from the huge variety of subjects the college has to offer makes it much easier to be motivated and do well. I’m excited about Year 12 and hope to take part in the Deakin University Accelerate Program. My goal is a career in psychology. BSSC can provide a pathway into the career you’re passionate about.”

C ON TAC T US ON NTAC TACTT U USS CCO BendigoSenior Senior Bendigo Secondary SecondaryCollege College Rosalind RosalindPark, Park,Bendigo Bendigo PO POBox Box545, 545,Bendigo Bendigo VIC VIC3552 3552

Phone61 61335443 54431222 1222 Phone Fax Fax61 61335441 54414548 4548 Email Emailadmin@bssc.edu.au admin@bssc.edu.au Web Webwww.bssc.edu.au www.bssc.edu.au

TIARNE SHERMAN

Phone 61 3 5443 1222 Bendigo Senior Fax 61 3 5441 4548 Secondary College facebook.com/bendigoseniorsc Rosalind Park, Bendigo Email admin@bssc.edu.au facebook.com/bendigoseniorsc www.facebook.com/bendigoseniorsc Web www.bssc.edu.au PO Boxbendigoseniorsc 545, Bendigo www.twitter.com/ twitter.com/bendigoseniorsc twitter.com/bendigoseniorsc VIC 3552 instagram/bendigoseniorsc gplus.to/bendigoseniorsc gplus.to/bendigoseniorsc www.youtube.com/user/bendigoseniorsc youtube.com/user/bendigoseniorsc youtube.com/user/bendigoseniorsc

facebook.com/bendigoseniorsc twitter.com/bendigoseniorsc gplus.to/bendigoseniorsc youtube.com/user/bendigoseniorsc

“You no longer have to lose any of your precious freedoms to get the care you need as you age” Pat, 91

Freedom family

We’re all on this ageing journey together. What’s most important is that we don’t lose the one thing that really matters, just to get the care we all eventually need. I mean, what’s life without freedom – the everyday freedom to come and go and be and do as you please in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

Why live alone when you can surround yourself with wonderful new friends in a vibrant, caring community that celebrates every day to the full and treats you with all the kindness, decency, love and respect you deserve.

That’s what I call freedom.

It’s easy as calling us on 1800 984 840 to confirm a day you would like to visit your local Freedom community and we will help with the rest.

Visit freedomagedcare.com.au

perfecting imperfection For this Bendigo Senior Secondary College alumna, the dream to write and publish has led to the preservation of an age-old craft.

By John Holton To call Rebecca Sutton a woman of letters is something of an understatement. For the past 18 months she has spent hours composing type – one letter at a time – as she works towards her goal of creating a collection of stories from pen to print.

It’s more than just the craft of writing at play; Beck is creating a tactile piece of art, using traditional letterpress printing and hand-binding to bring her words to life.

It’s not an occupation for the faint hearted, but for Beck it’s a project that has swept her up and led her on an extraordinary personal and creative journey.

“When I made the decision to self-publish I had a very rudimentary understanding of printing,” she says. “I’d heard a little bit about letterpress printing, but it began as a bit of a wild idea.

“I love the idea that traditional printing can leave an impression in the paper and that no two characters are ever printed exactly the same. Its tactile nature appeals to me, and it’s the means by which so many of my favourite books and authors have been printed.”

Beck’s love of literature was fostered during her time as a student at BSSC in 1996/97.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so the diversity of subjects really suited me,” she says. “I did English literature, agriculture, studio art

and environmental studies, but I really loved literature. By the time I left BSSC, I knew that’s where my interest lay… in writing and books.”

While Beck worked in a range of jobs after leaving school, including retail and as a vet receptionist, the urge to write was building. In 2002 she enrolled in a creative writing short course at Bendigo Tafe, then a diploma of professional writing and editing the following year.

It introduced her to a “world of new ideas”, and led to a Humanities degree at La Trobe University Bendigo where Beck’s fascination for mythology, philosophy and world religions was fostered.

“Those courses opened my eyes and changed my life on both a philosophical and spiritual level,” she says. “It introduced me to great literature and enriched my writing in so many ways.”

Beck says the stories that make up her collection Closer Than Breathing – Seven Tales For Our Time gestated during that period, but the challenge of juggling academia and creativity meant they were put on the back burner for some time.

The stories, now being transformed into type, have been written over a period of 10 years while Beck worked part-time.

“I went through a stage where I was sending a lot of stories out into the world,” she says. “Some were published in the US and Canada, but not here. It was clear that I didn’t fit the Australian market and I got a bit 35

sick of it. I wanted to produce a book and do it my way.”

Beck stumbled across the Melbourne Museum of Printing (MMP) website and signed up for their ‘Roots of Printing’ workshop, though most of her skills have been self-taught by trawling through old books on printing, typography and typesetting.

“I’ve learnt that printing is not just a skill, but a craft with its own terminology, tools and guiding principles – a rich vocational culture.”

The connection with the MMP not only provided a place to kick start the project, but also led to Beck and fellow writer Soren Smith being invited to attend a major printing festival in South Korea in August last year… what she describes as perhaps the steepest learning curve of all time.

“The JIKJI festival was an incredible learning opportunity,” Beck says.

“We met the world authorities on traditional printing practice and heritage; all knowledge I can bring to the project.”

With lots of type still to be composed, and pages to be printed, Beck has brought the process closer to home by teaming up with Artist Print Maker, Lawrence Finn, at HipCat Printery in Newbury – a place where she can continue to hone her craft and bring the dream of a handmade book to fruition.

The early printed pages already have Beck excited about the possibilities.

“The result so far is striking, crisp and tactile – as only letterpress can be,” she says. “It’s amazing to think that this was communication technology just 50 years ago. Things have moved so quickly and digital communication has almost wiped out a whole craft. It feels good to be preserving those skills.

“Ultimately, it’s about enhancing the reader’s experience … the texture of the paper, the way the print strikes the eye … even the scent and the weight of the book. It makes reading a sensual experience.”

36

Alex Jenkyn, Mitchell Graham and Billy Quirk

Rowan Laing, Declan Osborne, Jade Moule and Chloe Kilcullen

HANDING OVER THE REIGNS

Brylie Cahoon, Lilli Delaney and Sydney Findlay

Carissa Mott, Jeremy Robinson and Macey Stephens

Caitlin Buchan, Romy Norbart, Rebecca Grigg and Joelle Colliver

Leanne Cummings, Kirrily and Glen Careedy

In an annual tradition, Bendigo South East College hosted its annual leadership handover presentation recently attended by both students and staff.

The college’s 2017 leaders from the SRC, co-curricula, house teams and other groups, handed over their polos to the incoming 2018 leaders. It’s a symbolic gesture, echoing the passing of the baton. The 2017 groups also conducted a presentation on what they have achieved and organised at school during the year, such as OJ Day, Pink Stumps Day and the sports carnivals.

Bendigo for sunshine, business and pleasure 15 December 2017 – 29 April 2018 This exhibition will reveal how Bendigo’s many assets and attractions have been uniquely promoted through the decades to entice visitors from far and wide.

51 – 67 Pall Mall, Bendigo Victoria 3550 T 03 5434 6179 postofficegallery@bendigo.vic.gov.au www.bendigoartgallery.com.au Open daily 9am – 5pm (closed Christmas day) Entry by donation. Wheelchair access Post Office Gallery is proudly owned and operated by the City of Greater Bendigo with additional support from Creative Victoria.

PMS 1807 RED PMS 432 GREY PMS 142 GOLD

Image: Souvenir playing cards, 1950s, printed card.

Collection Dennis O’Hoy.

Amy McMillan and Casey Lodge

Andy Jones, Gail Allan, Christine Henty and Dzintra Martin

Renee and Hugh Norris

Ben O’Reilly and Ian Sequeira

Sue Kersting, Lynda Newton, Anne Southall and Andy Jones

Sai-wai Foo, Simone Bloomfield and Kim Young

FASHION AND GLAM FOR NEW EXHIBITION The Bendigo Art Gallery celebrated the opening of its international exhibition, The Costume Designer: Edith Head and Hollywood.

Patrons, guests, staff and friends of the gallery sipped champagne while director Karen Quinlan officially opened the exhibition.

The collection features more than 70 costumes designed by Edith, and will be at the gallery until January 21, 2018.

CONGRATULATIONS BSE College is proud of the commitment of its students and teachers to the Bendigo community. Throughout 2017, we have participated in many academic, sporting, musical and artistic events, and remain committed to many more.

As our students continue to strive for excellence – to excel academically, vocationally, socially and personally, we applaud them and hope they enjoy their annual awards evenings.

Your success is our success. Well done.

5443 4522 | bse.vic.edu.au

Brodie Murray, Daryl Chessum, Joshua Murray and Robert Pell

Bill and Vicki Higgins

THOUSANDS HAVE A FIELD DAY Declan Halpin, Robert Sacco and Paul Syle

Young and old, town and country. Crowds poured through the gates of this year’s Elmore Field Days.

Lucy Trewick and Wil Trewick

Outdoors there was so much to see, from monster tractors to mini tools and trinkets, while inside were cooking demonstrations, wearable Ag Art, and more to see and do.

Frank Belcec, Mark Grey, Milli Grey, Sam Grey and Debbie Belcec

all Be kinds of

The event has become an annual mustdo on the list of thousands of people from throughout the area and beyond.

Zoe Buchner, Courtney and Brittany Sutherland

clever

Study in 2018 at our Bendigo Campus.

• Agribusiness • Allied Health and Nursing • Arts • Business • Criminology • Engineering • Law • MBA • Science and Biomedical Science • Social Work • Teaching and Education

APPLY NOW latrobe.edu.au/apply2018 CRICOS Provider 00115M DC34609

Visit our new precinct Bendigo’s original market garden still operates today, 150 years later, within PepperGreen Farm’s social enterprise.

Experience our diverse hive of activity • Indulge yourself in our farm kitchen • Pick & pay from our market garden • Purchase from our plant nursery • Meet the artists at our studios • Take a tour through our unique history on site • Enjoy a Devonshire tea on our tram • Meet the makers at our community market 2018 Opening Hours 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday 10am - 2pm Saturday & Sunday

44 Thunder Street, North Bendigo www.peppergreenfarm.com.au

A Social Enterprise of Access Australia Group

a community affair

“Food is always at the heart of family and celebration and it tastes even better when you know where it comes from” ... wise words indeed.

By Lisa Chesters - Photography by Ashley J Taylor It’s about 7.30am on the second Saturday of the month and the first of the Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market volunteers have arrived for their shift. Busy laying table cloths, collecting donations for the popular raffle and assisting stall holders, it’s go go go to get the market ready for their first visitors.

Some producers and farmers have already arrived and started to set up stalls. A local volunteer from the CFA is putting up signage and assisting with the larger tasks. The Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market is truly a whole community affair.

The Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market is an accredited farmers’ market and its goal is simple; to provide the community with fresh, regional and seasonal produce.

However, the market is so much more. The heart of the Bendigo CBD comes alive on market days. Friends gather for coffee and conversation, or a light brunch. Musicians add to that community village fair atmosphere.

People love farmers’ markets because they’re an opportunity to engage with producers, ask advice and discuss their products.

Regular Ian McBurney says: “It’s a great way to connect with and support passionate local food producers. It’s a great way to connect with the local community. It takes 20 minutes to shop and two hours to chat.”

Ann Lansberry is a Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market committee member who believes the market is an important way for the community to support producers and reduce the distance from paddock to plate.

“When you take the time to get to know the person who grew your avo or your apples, or who made your cheese, it changes the way you think about farming and makes it real,” Ann says. Customers are guaranteed quality and freshly harvested produce that puts money directly back into regional communities.

A dedicated team of volunteers helps ensure the monthly markets run smoothly. Mother and daughter duo Helen and Sadie Coughlan have been proud volunteers for six years.

“Both of my grandparents were farmers so for me it’s important to support our local farmers and producers,” Helen says. “This is a way for us to thank them for taking the time to produce the amazing and beautiful foods that nourish and feed us.”

Sadie’s favourite part of volunteering is creating the beautiful raffle baskets. All the producers are invited to make a donation for the market day raffle. Sadie believes that, “it’s the best ever raffle in town” and she is right.

For the farmers and producers the opportunity to engage directly with their customers allows them to share their stories and passion.

McIvor Farm Foods is the passion of Jason and Belinda Hagan who farm naturally and ethically, respecting all living creatures on the land, farming free range Berkshire pigs and producing premium quality, great tasting pork, smoked hams and bacon.

Another market favourites are Ian and Mandy McClaren of Yapunyah Meadow Grazed Chickens who raise chickens on their farm “Yapunyah” in central Victoria. They take pride in their wholesome chemical and GM free chickens that are grazed on grass daily.

The Good Loaf bakery - another market regular stall holder - promotes similar values, “our business values come together within the products we produce. The process of baking true, authentic sourdough is a craft.”

As a regular market volunteer, I love the opportunity of being able to enjoy gorgeous produce, support our local farmers and producers and really connect with our local food and its growers. All that the Bendigo Farmers’ Market offers.

The Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market is on the second Saturday of each month in Sidney Myer Place. With a traditional market square atmosphere and Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association accreditation, the market is held from 9am-1pm.

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CHRISTMAS AT THE DESIGN PRECINCT

GIFT VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE Our multi-store voucher can be used across all of our members.

Buy online at: designprecinctbendigo.com.au Between Don and Vine Streets hello@designprecinctbendigo.com.au

keep on giving

ABOVE: The G.I.F.T members Andrea Gahan, Amanda Bailey, Vicki Fletcher, Justine Harrington, Janine Cugura, Elizabeth Murphy and Rachael Roessler.

The G.I.F.T. is a group of local women who give back to the community by passionately fundraising for those who are living with cancer, a cause that touches many of us.

The G.I.F.T prides itself on supporting services for those living in Bendigo Health’s catchment area. These dynamic women want the funds that they raise to be kept local and used to benefit everyone in the Loddon Mallee region.

The G.I.F.T. - Give, Inspire, Fundraise, Together!

Each member of The G.I.F.T, their loved ones or a friend, has needed to access the services provided by Bendigo Health. What better cause to fundraise for than one which will benefit the entire community.

Initially, The G.I.F.T focused their fundraising efforts on the Bendigo Hospital Cancer Centre, however they realised that cancer patients access many areas across the hospital, and a collective decision was made to broaden their net further.

particular, the Bendigo Health Foundation’s #GiveBack campaign, which aims to raise $4 million over a three-year period.

One hunderd per cent of money raised

by The G.I.F.T will be contributed to the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment that current hospital funding does not allow for.

This equipment includes a second cath lab for cardiac care, an ophthalmic microscope for back of eye surgery and a pharmacy robotic system.

All members of The G.I.F.T are passionate about their cause and dedicated to giving back to the community, while ensuring there is always an element of fun in their fundraising, of course.

In a generous move, The G.I.F.T has committed to raise $50k over a three-year period to benefit those in all departments of the Bendigo Hospital.

“The G.I.F.T run regular movie nights, golf days and even a glamorous Melbourne Cup function,” founding member Janine Cugura says. “Our events are created so that we can bring friends, family, and the whole community together in a fun way while raising funds that will be kept local.”

The organisation decided to raise funds for the New Bendigo Hospital Appeal and in

The group is planning a charity ball for 2018, and hopes it will bring plenty of

sponsors, support and funds for the Bendigo Health Foundation. The other goal is to ensure an amazing night out.

These women are determined to exceed their committed $50,000 and invite the community to get behind them. It’s easy to get involved. The public can take part in any of the regular events and the group is always happy to hear from any businesses that would like to get on board.

It’s easy to show your support for The G.I.F.T and be part of raising vital funds for the Bendigo Hospital.

“The G.I.F.T is all about fundraising and keeping it local,” Janine says. “Every bit helps and we invite the community to get behind such a great cause.”

For information about The G.I.F.T, contact Janine Cugura on 0409 544 381.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thegiftbendigo For details on Bendigo Health Foundation and the New Bendigo Hospital Appeal call 1300 243 000, visit www.bendigohealthfoundation.org.au 43

Meet Kylie, she’s enthusiastic, and ready to take that next step to apply for her perfect job.

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Charing Cross 1970

2016 Gold Cultural Tourism

Principal Brian Turner, 2018 Faith Captains Abbey Milligan and Olivia Turner, and 2018 College Captain Harrison Skinner.

distinguished changes

Honoring the past, drawing inspiration from historic values and its foundress, the soon-to-be Catherine McAuley College has major plans for its facilities and education.

Catholic College Bendigo is undergoing some significant changes in word and deed. These have provided an opportunity for the school to make a touching tribute to the past as it moves towards an exciting future. As with any major changes to an established institution, the process has been a delicate one. Principal Brian Turner explains that the college undertook a great deal of research and consultation during the rebranding and revamping process which has included deciding on a new name, change in uniform and major improvements to education facilities at both the Barkly Street and Junortoun sites.

The graduation of the 2017 Year 12 students was an opportunity to proudly reflect on the college, being the last students to leave the school under the banner of Catholic College Bendigo. As of the end of this year the school will be called Catherine McAuley College in honour of the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy who established the school originally. In another nod towards its history, the La Valla campus will change its name to Coolock, and the Coolock

site will be known as St Mary’s. There is an extensive and interesting history behind the school which can be accessed via the college website.

“We thought it was important to distinguish ourselves as being a Mercy school again. We were excited that we had permission from the governing body, the Institute of Sisters of Mercy Australia and PNG, to rename the college and the two sites and with that comes the change in our iconography and signage and all the administration.

“Catherine, who was the founder of the Mercy Sisters, used to live at Coolock house which is about eight kilometres outside of Dublin,” Brian says, “It is logical that the Junortoun campus will be called Coolock. A lot of people who came to the Bendigo campus as boarders and students still call it St Mary’s which is why it’s returning to that name. Once you tell the story, it makes sense. Our job is to educate the community about what the changes are and why.”

The college principal reflected on the Mercy

Sisters’ values of compassion, hospitality, respect, courage and service. It is this list of principles that have been key to the school and its progress. The college is also keen to show its commitment to the area, which it has through iconography, such as the Whirakee Wattle being featured on the new school banner, and through its plans of the expansion of the school itself.

“As part of our master plan we intend to fully restore the Bendigo campus and have some real focus associated around key points of Mercy work, and at Junortoun campus there will be an early learning centre, primary school, and secondary school through to year nine or 10, but we’re still deciding exactly what that looks like.

There are exciting plans about extending the scope and opportunities for people across the community to access Mercy education.”

The principal admits that one of the most interesting responses has been to the change of uniform, which will now feature pinstripes and blazers, and will be phased in over time.

For further information on the college, visit www.cmc.vic.edu.au

45

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on the road again Well, almost ... with a little imagination and a mental map, one could ward off the homesickness by travelling down those familiar country Victorian roads.

Words and Illustrations by Geoff Hocking More than 40 years ago, while living in a foreign land, I would occasionally get a little homesick. To amuse myself, one thing I did while lying in my bed on a cold, foggy and grey London morning was to drive from Melbourne to sunny Bendigo, along the old Calder Highway, entirely in my mind.

It was a test – to try and remember all the twists and turns, hills and valleys that were once the Old Calder.

I would begin in Melbourne, driving out along Mt Alexander Road – so named, as it was the road to the Mt Alexander diggings, the road along which eager gold-diggers traipsed with all their worldly goods some 150 years before I commenced my mental journey.

On a Friday night Mt Alexander Road was usually chock-a-block with traffic. Friday was the night I made my weekly escape from working in the city and headed back to the comforts of home, so, it was a rat-run through the suburbs, out along Moreland Road, cutting in and out before hitting Moonee Ponds Junction, and into another snarl. Sometimes it could take half-an-hour to get through

that bottleneck. It was okay once you made it past The Royal Hotel at Essendon, around the roundabout, under the railway bridge and onto the double-lane bit — past Smacka’s, that’s a pub operated by Jazz muso Smacka Fitzgibbon, not a poorly spelt American hamburger provider — and then down a palmlined boulevard until a left turn was needed at The Lincolnshire Arms, along Essendon Road.

Then you hit another snarl. A single-laned road, bisected by tramlines, all the way up to the long curve around the Keilor Cemetery.

There was an old steel framed bridge, with arched trusses spanning from side to side allowing only two-lanes of traffic to cross the Maribyrnong before you hit Keilor itself and this caused traffic to back-up for miles along Keilor Road. Sometimes it took almost an hour to get across this bridge and into open country beyond.

Once past Keilor you felt that at last you were heading for home.

Forty years ago there was no Bob Jane Thunderdome, no Maccas, no open fourlane highway, just a narrow two-lane tarmac heading out and away. Several petrol stations

were spaced out along the road. All gone now.

The first barrier to express motoring was at Digger’s Rest, so named because that is as far as most gold-diggers could walk from the city in a day — then they stopped for a rest. There was a level crossing at Digger’s Rest, just past the old burnt-out pub. If you saw the train on the line to the left of the road as you tootled along, you usually planted your foot to try and get through the crossing before the gates were shut. If you lost this challenge you could be waiting in a line of traffic long enough for you to get out of your car, head for the dunnies or into the shop for a Coke and a Mars Bar — the ride to Bendigo still had a long way to go.

Before I was old enough to drive and before the road was first widened, sometime in the 60s, there was a long dip in the narrow road and an old bridge crossing just after Adeney’s Hill. This bluestone construction was a single lane bridge. You had to take note of any traffic coming in the opposite direction as you motored down towards this little bridge.

Someone always had to give way. I remember my grandfather, driving towards Melbourne in his 1937 Chevrolet (won by grandma in a

47

Bendigo Easter Fair raffle) forcing an A-Model Ford to back up giving precedence to the power of ‘the General’.

Just after this dip another servo, long since boarded up and even though it has had a For Sale sign up for more than a decade, it appears that no-one is actually interested in making a purchase.

The next hold-up was curving down into Gisborne. Coming off the open road, the way into what was then a sleepy hollow was a long curving drop into the town, then another right turn before negotiating another curving climb up out again. There was another left curve and a pretty sharp right-hander before the road opened out again. Gisborne had a couple of good milk bars, a fish and chip shop and some useful dunnies by the park. I once stopped there and as I came out a police car pulled up and asked to see my licence. I asked ‘you mean we have to have a licence to take a piss now do we?’ The officer was not amused.

Then it was all the way to the Black Forest and Woodend. The forest was once a notorious hunting ground for bushrangers who lay in wait for the unwary traveller making their way up to the diggings. Travellers would wait until a large group had formed, large enough to give some security, before they ventured along the winding tracks in the shadowy forest. There was once an inn halfway through. It also is long gone. There was also a restaurant just off the highway, where we stopped just once for a meal. I was very young, but I seem to recall that it was of an eclectic Bavarian architectural style. We only stopped once as it burnt down not long after our visit and was never rebuilt.

I have tried not to recount the many accidents and mishaps along this road, before it was made redundant and used only by locals once a proper highway was built alongside, but I do recall that one unfortunate motorist met his end one night when he ran into smack-bang into a horse which had wandered into his path.

Woodend, a name that makes absolute sense, had the usual milk-bars, fish and chip shops and dunnies, all of which we visited time and again on our twice-weekly journeys – once up, once down. Down into Woodend, around and up out again. A long curve, past the golf-links with its sign spelt out on the hillside in quartz stones, and then out along the shady Avenue of Honour.

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Not much between Woodend and Kyneton, except the servo at Carlsruhe. This truck stop café seemed to be a licence to print money before it was cut off from the new highway.

Halfway home and a bucket of hot chips to keep you awake for the rest of the ride.

Past Caroline Chisholm’s Cottage (a home for migrant girls heading for the diggings in search of ‘lurv’), this sits on the right of the curve in the road where it crosses the Campaspe just where the imposing bluestone coaching house sits in the lee of the hill before it’s up and over into Kyneton.

Kyneton was, still is, a road dividing a shopping centre. By the time you got to Kyneton you were really too close to home to stop, so it was a quick right turn at the lights then a left down Piper Street and out into open country again.

As you left Kyneton, on the rise to the left of the road there is a curious curved house.

Built more than half-a-century ago, this very modern dwelling had a small railway around its garden, a shed out the side housed a small steam locomotive. It was the home of the Flynn family. Both Dan and John Flynn, sons of the builder of the house, also named Dan, are renowned silversmiths still living there today.

Their work is in the collections at Buckingham Palace, the White House and the Vatican as well as many corporate collections.

Next stop Malmsbury. Another long dip through this pretty town to cross the Coliban, another bluestone mill on the right. This is truly bluestone country. An impressive arched bridge carries the railway across the valley and the station on the left which is also a classic Victorian colonial bluestone construction.

outrun it. It is surprising to see how narrow that road was. If you got caught behind a farmer in his truck as you climbed out, that is before the double passing lane was built, you could be still behind him in Harcourt. On one hair-raising occasion we once came into Harcourt over that rise where the wineries are today and pushed the car we were driving to 100 miles an hour. I almost felt the front-lefthand wheel lift off the ground as wetopped the rise. In those days there was no upper limit if you could prove that you weren’t driving dangerously, and weren’t actually drunk. I still wouldn’t like to try that now.

From Harcourt to Bendigo was pretty uneventful until you hit Devil’s Elbow. A sharp twist in the road as it turned left then right to cross the railway line just to the north of the small town. Several motorists never managed to negotiate this bend with ease. One night, in heavy fog, one unfortunate driver left the road and tumbled down that steep embankment to meet an untimely end.

The next section was the last to be remade.

Thanks to an obdurate federal treasurer who refused to allocate funds for the highway’s completion citing the state government’s decision to slap a toll on the Monash Freeway as his reasons. The state eventually went ahead and looked after the welfare of the citizens of Bendigo. The toll went ahead.

Just before Taradale there was another servo.

You had to watch your speed as you left the flat straight road across this plain before you swung down into the small hamlet, and up out again. I got a speeding ticket some 50 years ago after I thundered along the flat section and thought I would lose enough speed rolling down into Taradale (one of many I might add).

It took a long time to learn that you don’t get anywhere any quicker by going fast. Taradale was over-supplied with two servos, standing right next to each other. I think they took it in turns to be open on the weekends and at night.

This is really where my story started. As we came through Ravenswood the other day we observed, for the umpteenth time, how much earth is being moved from one side of the road to another. Large granite boulders unearthed, smashed up or relocated. Tonnes of trees removed, wood-chipped or burnt. It seems to have been going on forever. We commented to one another: “When it is finished and new trees planted it will seem like it has always been there.” And, that is the way it will appear. We will have forgotten that dangerous intersection, where once someone operated a servo at the junction of the two roads. We will have forgotten the old Ravenswood Hotel and Jock Comini’s rest stop will probably have some state of the art dunnies. I hope so.

The old road out of Taradale into Elphinstone is still there. Elphinstone was another hold-up if you were still chasing the train and couldn’t

No matter how much the Calder has changed in my lifetime, I can still drive that old road in my memory – but slowly.

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ENJOYMENT AFTER SUNDOWN What better way to enjoy wine tasting and food sampling, than in the historic Fortuna Villa enjoying Bendigo Heritage After Dark.

The evening featured more than 50 of the region’s wines, as well as inresidence artist Peter Russell-Clarke.

The beautiful building provided the perfect backdrop for relaxing with a glass in hand while listening to live music with friends.

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Heritage Underground was an evening of fine food and drink at Rocks on Rosalind.

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The evening started with a new Killiecrankie Lola Montez aperitif cocktail made for the night by drinks master Finn Vedelsby.

Jessica Triay, Bradley Braford, Jo and Jackson Harding

This was followed by a five-course dinner which brought together award-winning wines of Killiecrankie and the food artistry from the Rocks On Rosalind kitchen.

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delivering hope

Going without food due to financial hardship is a growing problem in central Victoria, which is why the charity Bendigo Foodshare is doing what it can to tackle hidden poverty.

By Paula Hubert It’s a hectic few hours at Bendigo Foodshare’s distribution centre at Havilah Road. Perfectly fresh food that would otherwise go to waste is being sorted and dispatched to charities and community groups across the region to help the growing number of people finding it tough.

“We know that there’s more demand than we can meet,” says Bendigo Foodshare chair Cathie Steele.

“We support about 14,000 to 15,000 people a month from all walks of life, kids to pensioners. The vast majority are underemployed – people who are trying to make ends meet but it doesn’t take much to tip the balance.

“They might be professionals getting two days a week work or someone who is just making ends meet and then they get a big bill. They commonly need food relief for a period of time and will need it again.

“These people are our neighbours, friends and family. They are too embarrassed to say anything so as a community we need to help

each other.”

Every year, the charity delivers a million kilograms of food that’s fresh and nutritious to 106 community organisations including charities.

As many as 60 schools provide a breakfast and lunch program using the produce supplied by Bendigo Foodshare.

“We know that there are children that haven’t had a meal at the weekend and come to school exhausted and hungry.” She says the food program is available to all students so that those in need are not singled out.

“We really want to increase our local donations as food waste is still being thrown away- at the moment 53 per cent comes from them but it varies because it’s seasonal. We could do with more meat, pasta and rice donations.”

Bendigo Foodshare’s goal is to get it up to 80 per cent from local sources.

“Fresh food goes within a week. The advantage of getting more locally is that there are less food miles, less fuel miles, less waste and less carbon production,” Cathie explains.

Bendigo Foodshare sources half of the food from the big supermarkets and local food suppliers such as The Good Loaf Bakery, Hazeldene’s, Parmalat, Gourmet Greens and Peppergreen Farm.

“We also share with other food agencies in other areas so we swap the excess – for example Shepparton has got the SPC factory, Albury Wodonga has the Woolworths distribution centre so things that they have excess of we can swap with things that we have excess of and that works well.”

Cathie points to a stack of food tins that have been donated because they have been mislabelled, while others are close to the end of their shelf life but are still perfectly fine for consumption.

Food is donated for free but storing and distributing the goods costs money. Bendigo Foodshare needs $100,000 per year to cover overheads and van costs. Pro bono work also plays an important part along with support 53

from local companies such as Strategem, Viatek, Switched and J & A Freight.

or they have got out of the habit of making nutritious food for themselves.

“We can’t thank them enough. Our costs would triple if we didn’t have in-kind support.”

“We do have a wide range of ages that come along – men in their twenties and young mums. The oldest is 76. We’ve got a common goal to make something together,” says Kristy.

The 16 volunteers play an invaluable role, but Cathie says they need more volunteers to help with fundraising activities.

“We really need to double our refrigeration storage to keep food longer, and buy a new van.”

A small amount of money donated by an individual can go far - the cost of a cup of coffee can provide 80 healthy meals.

One benefactor of Bendigo Food Share’s distribution is Saltworks Community Action, part of the Eaglehawk Anglican Parish. With the fresh food donated, coordinator Sue Stewart and volunteer Kristy Gunn have started a cooking program that’s proving popular.

The program runs four classes a week – participants chop, slice and cook over 40 meals during the two-hour sessions. Many have never learnt basic skills in good home cooking

54

“It’s a team effort and we mainly use fresh food. We wouldn’t be able to do the program without Bendigo Foodshare as we have very limited funding.

“We cook with the seasons and we make the most of every bit of food. If we have a leek, the top goes into a soup, the middle is sautéed for a meal and the bottom goes into the garden to grow,” says Kristy.

“They learn to taste and season food. We teach them how to make food last longer like blanching vegetables and putting it in the freezer. This week we’re teaching them how to preserve tomatoes and pickle cucumbers,” says Kristy, who has recruited her mother and grandmother to provide recipes.

As an energy efficiency consultant by day,

Kristy has also taught participants how to make quick and easy home-cooked meals using very little electricity – “we did a week’s worth of meals which only cost 20 cents in electricity”.

Coordinator Sue Stewart says it improves the new cooks’ confidence and the feedback is very positive. “They are so proud of themselves when they start to dish up the food and they see how much they’ve made. It gives them a sense of pride.”

The meals are taken home to eat that night or put in the freezer; some will share it with people who don’t cook.

Sue is happy to see that it’s changing the mindset of participants, especially younger people who have had very little experience in the kitchen.

“Before their ‘go to’ food was pizza and take away. They’re starting to realise that it’s going to take them half an hour to go out and get a pizza when they could have cooked and served up a meal.”

DID YOU KNOW? Bendigo Health has a world class Intensive Care Unit in our brand new hospital. We have nursing opportunities for people in intensive and critical care.

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totally cute In need of a hobby, Ash Tuohey found she had a knack for online retail. Now, with her mum Janice on board too, her ‘baby’ Tiny Sprout is out in the real world and growing strong.

By Sue Turpie The saying “from little things, big things grow” is very apt for Tiny Sprout. What started as a hobby for Ash Tuohey has turned into a growing business with heart and soul. Tiny Sprout specialises in unique gifts, items to wear and toys for littlies, starting as an online initiative but now having moved into a pop-up retail space at the Bendigo Marketplace.

“My husband is a farmer and farmers work 24-7,” Ash explains, “so while I was working full-time, and I still am, I wanted something extra to do. I like to be quite busy.”

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Her first venture was an eBay business quite some time ago, long before it was the donething. It was combining this “online knack” with the need to buy gifts for lots of little ones in the family that gave Ash the idea for Tiny Sprout. As it is said, the key to business is to find a market, as well as know your market, and that is what Ash has done, and successfully too. The clothes are stylish and appropriate; clothes for children to be children in. While the accessories and gifts are too cute.

“I found it difficult to find good quality gifts and

small children’s items and it prompted me to look around for a few brands,” Ash says. “They were all over the place so I thought what if I could bring them all together, and that’s how Tiny Sprout started. We had a different name originally and have since rebranded with the idea being tiny referring to the little people, and sprout because of the farm.”

It is a competitive industry but for Tiny Sprout the focus is on quality, keeping in mind what is ethical, organic, and sustainability-based and affordable, given how quickly children grow

out of clothes. The responses to the products have been positive.

“We often get comments on the products, saying the feel is beautiful and the quality is amazing, which is really nice. Now we’ve been around for a while we’re getting repeat customers and people spreading the word about our products. And we have customers now who we call friends.”

Tiny Sprout has also given Ash’s mum, Janice O’Keefe, an opportunity for work. Janice was employed full-time when she was diagnosed with cancer and because of the treatment, and surgery and medication, she had to leave her position.

“It’s been timely because now I consider Tiny Sprout to be mum’s business,” Ash says. “It’s been lovely because we’ve been able to share it, and together we look at the stock and both have input. She’s a PR dream because she loves to talk. I did give her an employee of the month award,” she laughs. Having finished surgery, and with moving into a space at the Bendigo Marketplace, Janice was able to take on more work.

“It does take a lot of time and effort to do the research and work out what to stock so I’m lucky to have mum. She unpacks the stock, she checks it and prices it all… there is no way known I could do this business without her.”

Tiny Sprout is a pop-up shop at the Bendigo Marketplace, outside at the Mitchell Street end near the Handbag store. It will be there until January, after then customers can still find the store online with free delivery in the Bendigo area. For further information go to www.tinysprout.com.au

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a whole lot of love

Any artist will tell you finding space to create freely without overwhelming commercial pressure is a challenge. Enter a man with a plan.

By Sarah Harris Trying to define the Castlemaine artspace Lot 19 is a bit like attempting to pin a profession on its founder Mark Anstey. At various times Mark has been a nurse, prosthetist, taxi driver, sailor, but now answers to builder, fine furniture maker and, for relaxation, flugelhorn player in the celebrated Thompson’s Foundry Band.

It was his hands that custom-built this extraordinary village comprising 21 artist studios, a gallery, stage, cafe and kitchen.

The buildings are all constructed using recycled and reclaimed materials, which gives them a feeling of timelessness and evokes a strange kind of longing in visitors.

“There is a sense of peace that everyone comments on after a while. It is hard to define but it is almost people remember something they have forgotten when they have come here,” Mark says.

When he first bought the block in 2001 Mark wasn’t really sure what to do with it, but knew he wanted to foster the arts.

“I thought what is worth doing. The spiritual life and family life is worth doing and the arts is worth doing. We live in a fast, glossy world and I wanted to do something beyond that. I guess I am trying to open up people’s hearts to the softness within.”

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Mark’s first construction was a big blue shed built for a glass artist friend, who sublet half her space to a metal worker, and that was really the zygote for a colony.

“She was clean and quiet and he was noisy and dirty so to prevent war we built another shed,” Mark, a long-time Castlemaine State Festival board director, recalls.

The metal artist moved into his shed and promptly got a commission from American artist Kerry Cannon to build a five and a half metre high flame-flowing giraffe that would become the centrepiece of the first on-site art show in 2005.

The Lot 19 Spring Sculpture Show is now an important fixture on its annual events calendar and has been the springboard for many artists including Frank Veldze, who has figured in the prestigious Montalto Sculpture Prize awards and been runner-up in the Heide Prize.

“After the first sculpture show I thought this is brilliant, I better build a gallery,” Mark says. “So I built the gallery, painted the toilet, the trees grew up. It has been a really gentle progression because it was really just me building it all.”

Today 28 creative tenants including a playwright, mosaicist, musical instrument maker plus open access pottery studio and print makers

group, are based here.

“Some of them are international artists and don’t necessarily open their doors to the public, others are just starting out on their artistic journey.

I don’t curate the studio spaces. Who am I to say whether someone’s work is great or not,” Mark says.

Open-ended possibility is inherent in the name Lot 19. “I wanted a neutral name, not one that conjured up associated feelings or limitations so the actual lot number was perfect,” Mark explains.

“The hard part has been helping people to understand what it is. People turn up here sometimes expecting something like Sovereign Hill, but it is actually a safe haven for artists and is not commercially based.

“It’s an arts oasis. That is the core purpose for me. I am trying to nurture artists who tell the story of our time.”

For more information see www.lot19art.com

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following his faith

How does a teenager full of angst and rage transform into a Christian pop sensation singing in front of the Pope? Father Rob Galea reveals all in his new biography Breakthrough that’s already the talk of Hollywood.

By Paula Hubert Father Rob loves living in Bendigo, not just because of the community spirit and culture here, but also for another reason.

“Strangely enough I love how anonymous I am here,” says the softlyspoken priest who was born in Malta and has been based at St Kilian’s Parish for the past two and half years.

“I can’t walk through the streets of Malta and even some places in Melbourne and Shepparton. People want photos. In Bendigo, I’m Rob or Father Rob and I can be part of the community with no expectations to perform.”

It’s a different story when he travels with his Christian band, preaching and performing to packed out stadiums all over the world. The unlikely pop pin-up, who became an ordained priest at 28, has injected cool into Christianity, getting mobbed in traditional Catholic strongholds like Spain, Italy, and Malta – his ordination made headline news in his native country and he often needs security.

Such is the life of this multi-talented Christian musician who sung alongside Guy Sebastian for the Pope and half a million worshippers for World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008 after Sony Records signed him up.

He made a fleeting appearance on X Factor in 2015, but dropped out after getting through to the boot camp stage.

But how does a Catholic priest with so much going on keep his own ego in check? Father Rob sees no paradox in what he does and believes that music is a gift from God.

was upside down,” he says smiling.

He is, however, savvy in business and marketing, with a handful of degrees to his name, which has allowed his music ministry to expand.

Father Rob’s recording contract allows him to release two singles a year and an album every two years. “I run everything independently so that I have maximum control and I don’t compromise my ministry. All of the money made from records goes towards the youth ministry, tour expenses and new releases.”

Impressive for someone who only picked up a guitar at 17 after joining a church youth group. At 21, his song about the death of his best friend Daniel, ‘Run to Jesus’ became Malta’s best-selling single followed by an album, propelling him into the European limelight.

Now Father Rob attracts 50,000 likes on his Facebook page and has 11,600 followers on Twitter, while his 20,000 Instagram followers enjoy unexpected selfies of a man of the cloth – he’s a body-building fan and gym junkie so is happy to flex his bulging tattooed biceps for the camera. That’s in contrast to his more relaxed poses with his guitar or pet pooch, still managing to make a dog collar or a cross around his neck look trendy.

But there is no doubt in his mind what his mission is as a priest - to

”Fame doesn’t mean a thing to me. I left X Factor because too much attention was being drawn to me. From the songs that I write, from the music that I record, to the books that I write, to the videos I make - they are all for one purpose: I became a priest to give hope and dignity to people. It’s my relationship with God that I want to share with other people.

“First I am a Christian and follower of Jesus, and then I’m a priest and only then am I musician, a preacher and evangelist.“ As a musician and song writer, he’s the clerical world’s answer to Ed Sheeran, producing Christian dance-style anthems and ballads declaring a love for a higher being.

He admits that even though he can stand in front of thousands of people when he preaches and performs, he remembers how daunting it was to learn the basics of altar service when he was training to become a priest.

“I would ring the bell at the wrong time during the mass. I was a ball of nerves. The priest would grab the book I was holding for him because it 61

reach out to young people and make them feel connected. “We are sociable beings and we like that sense of positive belonging,” says the 35-year-old.

In his book, he describes his epiphany at 17. His sister was invited to the local youth group and he tagged along in a sulk because he hadn’t been asked too.

“The church sees the fruit of it and young people are being drawn. There is a lot of me at the front, but it’s always to point to something greater than myself.”

“What struck me was the joy these people had. I envied them but I wanted to be like them. The preacher started to talk about God like a friend. I kept going and found a sense of belonging.”

Father Rob, together with the late Bishop Joe Grech, founded the Stronger Youth Program in 2008. It stemmed from a modest gathering – eight young people attended a weekend retreat to help advance their faith. The Stronger Youth ministry has evolved and is fast becoming one of Australia’s largest youth movements, holding youth rallies and retreats in Victoria and Perth dioceses.

The teenager learnt how to pray by sitting in a chair and placing another chair opposite “imagining God was there”.

In 2015, Fr Rob created the FRG Ministry in response to the 200 to 400 requests each year to speak and perform at conferences, rallies and Christian events. It allows him to combine his pastoral role at the Sandhurst Diocese - he is the Chaplain for Catholic College Bendigo and La Trobe University Campus and visits 90 high schools a yearwith his international ministry where he’s taking his preaching to new frontiers such as India and Indonesia.

In between praying, writing songs and making weekly films for his YouTube channel, he has also found time in his hectic schedule to write his biography Breakthrough which is released on December, 2017. He is delighted that Hollywood has already bought the rights to bring his story to the silver screen but adds ‘I won’t be acting in it”. The biography reveals how he turned his life around.

As the oldest of three growing up in a strict family, Father Rob was bullied at primary school and became an aggressive, angry teenager, often clashing with his father. He walked past the churches in those days, preferring to sneak into the local night clubs. It wasn’t long before he got hooked on party drugs like ecstasy and found himself embroiled in serious gang violence.

“I would pick a fight for no reason. Ten of us would jump on a guy. I was out of control.

“I ended up in a lot of trouble, literally running for my life. I locked myself in my room for six weeks. I was suicidal, self-harming, rocking and crying myself to sleep. I was in a very dark place.

“I had a choice. I could end my life or do something about it. My parents kept believing in me.”

“I noticed how I felt when I didn’t pray. I started to grow in faith and when I prayed I felt a sense of peace so it became a daily thing.

“I started to feel more patient with people; I wasn’t constantly needy with my parents.”

He met a girl at the youth group and had a serious relationship for three years. “I planned to get married and have kids. I wanted to take over my dad’s business.”

But then he met the “coolest young priest” and over a couple of years the calling to become a priest became too strong to ignore. He and his girlfriend broke up amicably and he joined a seminary.

“Becoming a priest is counter-culture and people don’t understand it.

They say ‘why would someone choose not to get married and have a celibate life?’ Any commitment comes with a sacrifice, but it also comes with a joy.”

He evangelises about issues that young people can relate to, but acknowledges that there’s a lot to do in the Church, following the Royal Commission’s investigation into child sexual abuse.

“These people, who have abused, have destroyed lives and I hate what they’ve done. They had a place of trust and privilege.

“I represent an institution that is mistrusted and hated by some. I’ve been spat at, pushed and physically attacked. They may have a justified anger, but it doesn’t change the fact that God is at work in the Church.

I in no way would justify what these people have done, but the mess of some or many doesn’t make the whole institution evil.

“I hope that we will come back to our call to bring hope and dignity,” he adds.

What is clear is that the Catholic Church needs to play a relevant role in the 21st Century and beyond in order to survive and flourish.

Father Rob, who came to Australia on a gap year but has stayed 12 years, hopes he can bring healing to the church and continue to give hope to young people.

“At St Kilian’s (Parish) we have a lot of young people connecting with that sense of community. Music opens your heart, but it’s a sense of community and faith that is going to keep you there.”

He feels blessed being part of the Church’s mission.

“I love what I do. If I had a thousand life times, I would be a priest in each one.”

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Pana cook book from bob boutique $38 / Artist Spaces from bob boutique $18 / The art of wellbeing from Organise My $29.95

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David Johnston, Lachlan Slade and Greg McKerlie

Frances Gibson, Anne Wallace and Prof. Patrick Keyzer

Harry McAnulty and Noel Hourigan

Rob Stephenson, Jim Evans and Myl Duffy

Leo Brunier, Ros Trimble and Penny Davies

Patrick Keyzer, Howard Nathan and Rob Stephenson

A CENTURY OF POLLS AND PLEBISCITES This year’s annual La Trobe University Sir John Quick Lecture at The Capital had a timely focus on bigotry, referenda, plebiscites, polls and conscription.

Guest lecturer Howard Nathan took the audience back 100 years to a time when “more young Australian men were slaughtered than any time since, when the country was rent by the most bitter and bigoted conscription for military service campaign imaginable.”

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Amy McCabe, Willa Whitewolf and Ning Ning Zhang

Annalee Phillips, Zoei Saab, Richelle Hollis and Lydia Lowndes

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Gai Porh Soe La Myint, Graeme Wiggins & Myl Duffy

Jane Reid, Kristen Swann and Jaime Cornish

Rural women’s advocate Alana Johnson was keynote speaker at this year’s La Trobe University Women in Leadership.

Alana says Bendigo is in a unique position to push the women’s equality strategy, having an all-female leadership team taking out the top jobs of mayor and Federal and State Government representatives.

Jo Doye, Sarah Gawler and Phillip Boutchard

Lynda Evans, Viveka Simpson and Cheryl Martin

Alana joined one of these, City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Margaret O’Rouke, for the event, with academic Amalia Di Iorio, alumnus Katherine Hancy and student Khayshie Tilak-Ramesh also making up the inspirational panel of women .

BUFFETS, MEALS, DESSERTS, FINGER FOOD & GRAZING TABLES

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scrummy

The summer months mean only one thing in the kitchen, and that is ‘salad’ ... mouthwatering, delicious salad.

By Beau Cook Long gone are the days when salad would mean a bit of coleslaw, a tub of potato salad and some iceberg lettuce thrown together with a tomato or two. This perfect summer side dish comes with some international inspiration.

Made from fresh and seasonal ingredients, this grilled zucchini and freekeh salad is easy to prepare and sure to wow family and friends at the next weekend barbecue.

GRILLED ZUCCHINI AND FREEKEH SALAD Serves 6 as a side • 1 cup freekeh (roasted green wheat grains) • 1 large zucchini, shaved into long strips • 1 small fennel bulb, finely shaved, tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning • 4 radishes, finely shaved • 2 handfuls rocket • 50g shaved parmesan • ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted • 3 tbs olive oil • 1 tbs red wine vinegar • 1 tsp raw sugar

1. Place freekeh in a pan of cold water over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 40 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat a griddle pan over high heat. Working in batches, grill zucchini for 1 minute each side or until slightly charred. Set aside.

3. Combine oil, vinegar and sugar in a small bowl, season with salt and pepper, and stir until sugar dissolves.

4. Place freekeh in a serving bowl with remaining salad ingredients. Toss with dressing and serve.

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creative culinary Necessity was the mother of the invention of the Starving Artist Food Co. ... and Dr Scroll ... and a thriving catering business.

By Sue Turpie For this Bendigo business, theirs is a success story born out of necessity and a love for good food. Aptly called the Starving Artist Food Company, under the umbrella of which now is Dr Scroll, there have been twists of fate and lucky encounters that have seen this homebased initiative meet the public. However, it has been the consistently high-quality range of products and dedicated service that have ensured the company’s longevity and continual growth both locally and further afield.

It was a journey from fine art to fine food for Lee Trewartha who had finished a degree and was undertaking a PhD in fine arts. While the study and work fuelled her passion for research and creativity it didn’t contribute much to the family coffers.

“I was exhibiting widely, but selling paintings in the economic climate we’ve had was difficult,” Lee says. “Our kids were at school and my husband was then made redundant. We sold a bed and breakfast that we were running in 72

Quarry Hill, and thought to ourselves; ‘what the heck are we going to do now’.”

Lee answered that question by drawing on her skills in the kitchen. While contemplating setting up a food business she received some great advice from Nick Haddo who owns Bring on Cheese Company: “With food, you make what you love to eat.”

It was the family’s connection to a Bendigo theatre group and its production of Pirates of Penzance that provided an outlet for a scrumptious cinnamon roll Lee made for her own children.

“My husband is involved with Nexus as conductor of the orchestra. The director Julie knew I made these cinnamon rolls. I’d spent time in France and America and I absolutely loved the rolls over there … and the French brioche, the cakes and pastries. I was a real foodie anyway. I came home and made up these buns with all those influences from my

travels. Julie asked for hundreds of cinnamon rolls for the cast. We went and did four 15-minute intervals, and had queues out the door, selling $1800 worth of buns in an hour.

“People came back and said: ‘that’s the best thing I’ve ever put in my mouth’,” Lee laughs.

The French pastry is made from scratch.

“I’ve had a few classes with Annie Smithers, she’s been a big inspiration.” And only high ingredients and local where possible such as Golden Yolk eggs, because they’re local and taste great, as well as natural butter and Laucke flour from Bridgewater.

The Starving Artist Food Company is the over-riding company focusing on catering, while Lee has separated the scroll making and rebranded it under the name of Dr Scroll.

“I thought I had to get my PhD in there somewhere,” Lee jokes. “It was an apt name when we started. I had a blog called ‘the starving artist at large’, and I used to put

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recipes on there. We love restaurants and love food. I used to just get online and chat about it.”

From there, Lee took her food to the market at the Bendigo Showgrounds and established the business as a quality caterer.

The catering initially was a way of keeping a budget for daughter Erynn’s wedding which was towards the end of 2015. Erynn Trewartha-Lewicki has been an integral part of production even during some busy times in her life.

“We’d get an order for 400 buns, and Erynn would roll out a few then sit at the table and do a paragraph on her Master of Teaching,” Lee says. “Erynn was helping and everything took off so she’s still working in the business, she is just as important.

Coming from someone who didn’t really cook ... We got repeat business as a result of 74

her wedding.”

The growing business has meant some interesting times in the kitchen with some 22,000 buns put through 15 Breville machines. “We couldn’t afford equipment,” Lee explains. “It was nuts. It’s only been about four months ago we bought a mixer.

We were putting 500 buns through a domestic oven and we just couldn’t keep up with demand. We’ve had markets contacting us and now we make thousands of buns.”

The buns vary thanks to an experiment one night when Lee added lemon to the mix.

They’ve done 70 flavours since then and have a good following on Instagram with fans checking in to see where their buns will be for sale next.

“It’s exciting, and we never expected this to happen, but I’ve always said that good food sells.”

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Amanda Bailey, Elizabeth Murphy and Andrea Gahan

Annie Parker, Brenna Bailey and Shannon Tyack

Jacinta Mathews, Melinda Todd and Lisa Moore

Sue Pearse, Kate Newman, Liza Fazzalori and Carla Anderson

Kirsty Johnston, Tara Everist and Janine Cugura

Renee Petersen, Rosemarie Farrell, Larissa Delaney and Phil Janett

ALL GORGEOUS FOR G.I.F.T The race that stopped the nation was the race that helped a local organisation raise funds for the new Bendigo Hospital Appeal.

Guests gathered at the Birdcage at Mister Bobs for the charitable event.

Hosted by G.I.F.T – Give, Inspire, Fundraise, Together, guests dressed for a day at the races and enjoyed raffles, sweeps, lucky door prizes, and a chance to mingle for a good cause.

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it's about the good life

Rob and Luisa are proudly at the helm of the family business.

Drawing on culture and traditional family values, the couple have a firm vision for the future of Bendigo Foodstore.

By Sue Turpie It could be said that a passion for food and food service runs in the veins of the owners of the Bendigo Foodstore. Luisa is the third generation of her family to be at the helm of this business. After spending her childhood in Bendigo, Luisa lived and worked away during her early years before returning in 2007 with her husband Rob. The shop, situated in East Bendigo, is a favourite amongst locals as well as visitors and their support is something the couple are grateful for. It’s ensured the store’s longevity.

“My dad’s family bought the business in the 60s,” Luisa says. “After growing up and watching my parents run the business, fate brought me back 10 years ago. I took over the business two years ago putting my own stamp on their work. Together with my husband Rob we have a vision for our store and believe it is something special and unique.”

The couple are quick to acknowledge the work

that was done before them by Luisa’s family, but as she explains, after 30 years in the business, her parents needed and wanted to live life a little.

“After working with them for eight years and having my beautiful children I couldn’t walk away,” Luisa says. “I developed a strong passion for food during this time and a vision to share this. And I am proud to be doing this today. “ For Luisa the motivation in creating and forging ahead with the business all comes back to family. Bringing loved ones back to the dinner table to share in food and life.

“This is something that Rob and I together with our children believe in,” Luisa says.

“Instilling the notion of sharing family life.

Food is a vehicle for achieving this.

“Our heritage being southern Italian inspires both the produce and the style of food we offer at the food store. Our homemade sauces are 77

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created with our traditions in mind. Creating an easy meal option for busy lives. Wherever possible we source organic produce and products, just like it would be in Italy-Calabria where our heritage lies. We believe that food is only as good as the produce and products used. We describe our food as ‘rustic Southern Italian inspired food’.

“And without our amazing staff our store would not be where it is. We are grateful to them for embracing our vision and helping to create the culture of our store.”

Plans include expanding the store’s range of local and imported cheeses and introducing a range of fresh, handmade pasta. The couple prides themselves on serving locally produced hams and bacon as well as other smallgoods, an area they also hope to expand next year.

“Our vision for Bendigo Foodstore is a place where you can come in, buy your morning coffee, pick something up for lunch, and have dinner sorted too,” Luisa says. “Housemade with love from our kitchen to your table. More of our customers are looking for organic products and, in general, healthy eating, which is what we promote.

“We’re excited to see where Bendigo Foodstore is heading. Watch this space.”

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HUMOROUS TAKE ON SERIOUS SUBJECT The Otis Foundation recently presented Lovely Lady Lump, performed at The Capital, as an opportunity for a fun night out as well as fundraiser.

The show centres on Lana who, in 2014, was diagnosed with breast cancer. In an unmissably vibrant mix of storytelling, rounded character work, stand-up, silly dances, ridiculous puppetry, and animated projections of her real imaging, she has made a show that is touching, real, raw and hilarious, skilfully making mutated cells the butt of the joke.

Dale Turnbull, Julie Scullie and Kerry Weymouth

Helen Gobbe, Kath Cooper, Sandra Davey and Lyn Pearce

Katrina McFarlane, Claire Gillen, Lyn Peel and Janine Baulch

Mandy Mitchell, Krissy Cook and Lynda Davis

Kerry Krenz, Mandy Mitchell, Lynda Davis, Lana Schwarcz and Krissy Cook

Louise Matthews and Frances Thompson

WINE. FOOD. FUNCTIONS, WEDDINGS & CONFERENCES Visit our Cellar Door and Gallery. You can relax and enjoy wine tasting in air conditioned comfort or relax outdoors in the gardens.

“AN EXCELLENT WINERY, PRODUCING WINES OF HIGH TO VERY HIGH QUALITY” JAMES HALLIDAY Open at weekends, at other times by appointment - (03) 5439 5367 - 77 Faderson’s Lane, Mandurang - (9km South - East of Bendigo, Off Tannery Lane)

Anelise McKenzie, Phoebe Cook, Isabel Jenkins Smales, Max Tulloch and Lucy Mills

Angela Mekel and Grace Morrall

CONNECTING THROUGH TED TALKS

Jai Johnston and Sam Chandler

Liam Radford and Thomas Gregory

Inspiring audiences, Girton Grammar School again hosted a TEDx Bendigo event with six speakers addressing the theme of “Connected�.

Speakers ranged from a life coach and drumming workshop facilitator to an IT director and Paralympic athlete, with the event unleashing new ideas to inspire and inform the Bendigo community and beyond.

Sam Hilson and Harry Everist

Emily Heislers and Chaelim Ko

The event was open to all members of the public.

cool options

Sangria. It’s Spanish for: “Geez it’s hot, I need a delicious, fruity iced wine beverage.”

By Finn Vedelsby — Rocks On Rosalind

SANGRIA

Marinade:

1. Add water to a large jug

Drink this anytime you need red wine and the ambient temperature is above 18 degrees. Spain’s national beverage, it is a wine drink which is iced down and diluted with juices, sometimes sweetened naturally with honey or fruit, spiced with sweet spices, and can be fortified with sherry, spirits or port wine. It can also be bubbly with the addition of soda. Really, the options are endless. The attached recipe was derived from a Spanish paper napkin from a sommelier at Villa Paramesa – a fantastic Tapas bar – Valladolid.

For best results make this the day before it’s going to be consumed, or earlier

2. Add sugar and stir until clear

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• 1 lemon

• 8 cloves

• 2 oranges

• 100ml brandy

• 2 apples

• 60ml Cointreau

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 600ml water • 150g sugar

3. Slice then add lemon, lime, oranges – muddle.

4. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir for five minutes 5. Let sit overnight in fridge.

To Serve: Add one bottle of red wine – ideally Grenache or Tempranillo – stir Pour over ice and allow fruits into the glasses. Olé!

Ask Sam at The Dispensary in Chancery Lane for a twist on this classic or try a traditional recipe as a match with a course on Rocks on Rosalind ten-taste banquet.

RED WINE: VISCARRA ‘SENDA DEL ORO’ RIBERA DEL DUERO, SPAIN. Returning from an international adventure I have renewed my mission: Learn as much about the Ribera Del Duero region as possible and share this new-found passion with my friends and guests.

Wines from this Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) within the lager Castilla y León are typically made from Tempranillo much like the well known region of Rioja. The wine from RdD can be enhanced with the addition of Cabernet Sauvignon among other things.

Viscarra however, along with other famous and delicious examples of this region including Tinto Pesquera are 100 per cent Tempranillo.

WHITE WINE: THE LUCKY CAT, YARRA VALLEY, VIC. POURING AT ROCKS ON ROSALIND What is better than Pinot Gris this season? Not much.

Dark in colour, rich in body showing the best of typical Tempranillo fruit characteristics: Raspberry, bilberry, blackberry, cherry, prune. The very best of the wines often show sweet spicy notes like pine, liquorice, cinnamon and clove. Some display leather, chocolate and smoke.

This wine is tasty and refreshing. The palate is clean with notes of fresh Nashi Pear, lemon, ginger, spice, slight hints of oak and textural creaminess. A fun and yum wine that will go great with Asian food. This is a great take on what quaffing Australian Pinot Gris can be.

Decant the Viscarra and be transported to all of these characteristics. Feeling smooth in the mouth with tantalising gripping tannins that are velvety and supple.

This is a Pinot originating in Burgundy, giving heady often smooth, full bodied wines with a bouquet of fresh rich aromas. The aromas are often spicy and honeyed with floral and fruity notes. It can age beautifully if you don’t drink it all straight away.

Grapefruit, pineapple, apple, quince, linden, honey, saffron, fresh butter.

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Arthur Holton, Luis Blythman, Alex Rockliff, Matt Kellett and Jazmyn Fitzpatrick

Breanna Connelly, Georgia Nicholson, Kathryn Northill and Jennifer Herrera

Debra Black, Myo Chit and Mardi Holland

Laura Pokorzynski, Simon Wood, Steve Boyle and Angie Pollock

Margot Woodward and Sam Noske

Seb Spijkerman and Maya Lane U’Ren

YEAR 12 STUDENTS CELEBRATE THE END OF AN ERA The pressure of homework and exam preparation took a back seat as BSSC students took to the Ulumbarra stage for their Year 12 Graduation.

Donning gorgeous gowns and sleek suits, students joined with their families and teachers to mark the end of their secondary education and celebrate their achievements along the way.

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Georgia White and Bridget Byrne

Ashlea Tuohey, Sue Johns and Tara Johns

IN HONOUR OF BECCKY

Bernie O’Keefe and Paul Johns

Bianca Schmidt and Sophie Taylor

Tiny Sprout, a Bendigo business which recently set up shop at the Bendigo Marketplace, hosted a fundraiser for the Beccky Johns Foundation.

Beccky was a Bendigo girl who underwent two kidney transplants before sadly dying from cancer in 2015.

Emma Starkey, Kelly Fleming and Kylie Pickett

George and Greg Clohesy

The Beccky Johns Kidney Discovery Fund was established under Kidney Health Australia Research in her honour, to discover non-cancer inducing anti-rejection drugs for kidney transplant patients.

Elegance and style Award winning fruit from rich Cambrian soil

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blow the froth off Summertime! Get ready for refreshing, crisp lagers, barbecues in the backyard, and the sound of Australia dominating the cricket.

By Justin McPhail BODRIGGY BREWING COMPANY – BRUNO BITTER

SIERRA NEVADA – TROPICAL TORPEDO

Who makes it? Bodriggy is a group of beer-loving Melbournites who also helm venues such as Dr Morse, a funky bar and eatery located across the road from the future home of Bodriggy. They are located in an old warehouse in Abbotsford, which will be a fully fledged brewery, bar and beer garden by the end of 2018.

Who makes it? Sierra Nevada Brewing Company in Chico, California. Godfathers of the American Brewing Scene.

What is it? Based on an English ‘bitter’, a style of Pale ale that can range from three per cent to eight per cent (this one is 4.5 per cent). You’ll find lovely tropical fruits on the nose, zesty stonefruit characters on the palate, and a refreshingly dry finish (it is a ‘sessionable’ beer after all).

Try with: Pete, Robbo and Gazza at your next barbie.

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What is it? Exactly what it says it is. A torpedo of tropical fruit characters, mango, papaya, passionfruit, and tastes nothing like the huge 6.7 per cent ABV it possesses. It’s a summery take on the classic Torpedo, which is a hop bomb Sierra Nevada producing regularly.

Try with: Key lime pie!

BLACKMAN’S BREWERY – JUICY BANGER Who makes it? Blackman’s is based in Torquay, and set up by Renn and Jess (Jess is a former Bendigo resident). They have been producing some of the finest beers over the past few years.

What is it? Part of the ‘Lager Collective’ which includes stablemates Citra Black Dynamite – a black lager with generous helpings of Citra hops – and Zinger Slinger - a New Zealand lager featuring Southern Cross, Riwaka & Motueka NZ hops.

The Juicy Banger is the original, and is based on the India Pale Lager style – which is essentially the IPA of Lager’s.

Think big notes of grapefruit and pine, but without the big malt backbone that is common in IPA’s.

Try with: Mexican style foods that include big doses of lime, coriander and chilli.

Available at: Flight Bar Bendigo, Goldmines Hotel, Dispensary Bar & Diner.

BALTER – XPA Who makes it? Award winning brewer Scott Hargrave is at the helm (ex Stone & Wood), and is making some damn fine booze.

One of the owners is the guy that punched a shark, Mick Fanning. Along with legendary surfers Joel Parkinson, Josh Kerr and Bede Durbidge.

What is it? An “Extra Pale Ale”, which is a loose style that can mean almost anything depending on the brewery. This brewery went with big tropical and stonefruit punch, with a small amount of bitterness. It’s a fruit bomb that is far too easy to drink.

Try with: Crustaceans, butter and chives. Also worthy of drinking with a charred pineapple salsa on corn chips (make them yourselves out of tortillas, they taste so much better).

Available at: Flight Bar Bendigo, Dispensary Bar & Diner, Rocks On Rosalind, Goldmines Hotel, Handle Bar.

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Norm Bateson, Jeff Pethybridge and Peter Patullo

Nerrina Goonan, Gemma Candy and Athene Goonan

David and Charlie Tatman

Simon Dundas and Liam Hall

Simon Lewicki and Callum Trewartha

Allen Snaith and Steve Charles

FRESH FROM THE FARM On the second Saturday of each month, the Bendigo Community Farmers Market sets up shop in Sidney Myer Place.

Stall holders boast the freshest produce from fruits and vegetables to sauces and slices. There’s also entertainment and lots for youngsters to enjoy.

The market is an opportunity to directly support local farmers and produce makers.

giddy up girls When you weigh less than 48kg in your socks, and balance and steer a 600kg juggernaut over speeds matched only by a motor-driven machine, you can’t be too precious. It takes courage, strength and a determination that most of us can only hope for.

Meet the central Victorian female jockeys who have swapped silks for high fashion.

These women have an ambulance follow them to work, so an opportunity to dress up at Bendigo’s racetrack was a nice change from stable duties.

Courtney Pace is the state’s leading amateur jockey. Once a pro, now Courtney races the picnic circuit. Week in, week out she is

saluting the judges, having ridden 49 winners last season, an achievement that leaves her male rivals in her dust.

Kassie Furness has won country cups and is highly competitive on the professional provincial circuit, having ridden well over 85 winners. She recently returned from injury, but with her eagerness and determination she’ll soon be back in the winner’s circle.

Alex Patis is just about to make her debut after two years of doing the hard yards, and this girl from the Gold Coast is determined to make her mark. Patis was the only female intern at the Victorian Apprentice Jockey Training Program this year, and her mentor, coach and one Australia’s best jockeys, Darren Gauci, is already seeing signs of greatness.

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Hair and makeup: Jools for Jim Millinery: IvyJayne & Co Clothing: Soho Boutique

ALEX PATIS What do you do to get away from racing? Or how do you relax?

As a jockey it is quite hard to get away from racing. But as for relaxing I enjoy watching a movie or having a bath. I find going to the gym quite relaxing too.

Who do you look up to?

I look up to Darren Gauci. He was just such a strong rider and had a very long successful career, something I hope to achieve. Darren is my coach and helps me a lot with my riding and helps me look and become a stronger rider.

What do you love about racing?

I love racing because I can have a job that I love, work and ride horses and still get paid. In racing you make a lot friends and you are always meeting new people. Going to the races is always a great atmosphere and an enjoyable day out.I also love the fact that racing you can take anywhere overseas.

Who’s your favourite horse?

I’ve had a fair bit to do with Mr Cooley over the past 12 months. I’ve ridden nearly all his gallops and got the opportunity to jump him out a few times. He’s special to me because he’s such an old gentleman who has won 12 races in his career. I hope to start my career on him.

What’s your most memorable moment?

When I got the phone call telling me I was accepted into the Victorian apprentice program and that I was the only female this year. A highlight for me so far in my career was to be able to spend five months with Gerald Egan and ride a treble for him at Tatura trials.

How do you think woman are perceived in racing?

I believe that times have changed a lot and women are getting more involved in racing. As for female jockeys, we are proving ourselves day by day that we are just as strong and can do the same thing males can. These days girls are definitely getting more and more opportunities in races. In my career I would love to see an all female race.

Favourite food?

Anything Lisa Banks cooks. She never disappoints.

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COURTNEY PACE What do you do to get away from racing? Or how do you relax?

I like to play a lot of sport, especially netball.

What is your favourite thing to do?

Watching the AFL, especially the Bulldogs.

Who do you look up to?

My family, they are great supporters of me.

What’s the worse element of racing?

Very early rises, especially during the winter months.

What do you love about racing?

I love the industry as a whole, but especially the horses.

Where do you see racing in 10 years’ time?

I like how racing is progressing with time. In 10 years’ time I think you’ll see more innovation such as the advent of more night racing for the patrons and participants.

Who’s your favourite horse?

Lohnro.

What’s your most memorable moment?

Riding out in England on one of the Queen’s racehorses in 2014 in Kingsclere.

What’s your worst moment?

Being injured and unable to ride.

Favourite food?

Steak.

Hair and makeup: Jools for Jim Millinery: IvyJayne & Co Clothing: Soho Boutique 91

KASSIE FURNESS What is your favourite thing to do away from racing?

Take my dogs for a walk, I love spending time with them.

Who do you look up to?

My dad, the most hard working, loyal and decent man I know.

What do you love about racing?

It doesn’t matter if you’re the trainer, owners, strapper, track work rider or stable hand, everyone is equal and everyone has done their piece of the puzzle to help get the job done as a team.

Where do you see racing in 10 years’ time?

I see racing being very different in 10 years’ time, but I hope it’s for the good and for the right reasons .

Who’s your favourite horse?

Belannoro, I won four races in a row on her.

What’s your most memorable moment?

Winning the Tamworth Cup in the first year of my apprenticeship was a huge thrill.

What’s your worst moment?

My fall. From an athlete constantly on the go to sitting on the couch and losing all momentum was a hard pill to swallow. But it made me stronger and more determined as not only a jockey, but a person.

How do you think woman are perceived in racing?

When I first started my apprenticeship I personally don’t think women were classed in the same category as men. But the likes of Michelle Payne winning the Melbourne Cup didn’t just prove we can do it. She made a stand for every woman in every industry or sport to show just how far discipline, dedication and hard work can make even the most impossible task seem possible. She certainly proved that.

Favourite food?

Steak and mash.

Hair and makeup: Jools for Jim Millinery: IvyJayne & Co Clothing: Soho Boutique 92

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gifts for all year round While December is a month of traditions, families, food and friends, the gift of giving should be celebrated throughout the year. There are many gorgeous ideas here, suitable for brightening up the home of a loved one or to beautify their day.

Classic and timeless gifts are cherished, returning the recipient to a special memory or moment in time when reflected upon for years to come. For those who celebrate their homes, gift your loved one with the comfort of neutral throws, cushions and rugs to provide elegance and texture, or nested coffee tables to create

a distinctive element that enhances a beautiful space.

Spread your appreciation far and wide with stylish but inexpensive items. Clutches, diaries, hand creams, organic cosmetics and scented candles are valued everyday necessities, and will please even the fussiest of tastes.

Make Your House a Home: Molmic Shona Sofa $P.O.A., Make Your House a Home: Cushions from $79, Banana Plant $299, GlobeWest: Round Marble Nest Coffee Tables $2530 Make Your House a Home: Armadillo Rug from $950 Make Your House a Home, located at the Design Precinct, 132 High Street, Bendigo. OZ Design Furniture, 89 High Street, Bendigo.

Robe, 12 Chancery Lane, Bendigo. Jools For Jim, 72 Pall Mall, Bendigo.

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Robe: Frankie 2018 Daily Diary and Status Anxiety Norma Purse $69.95,

Make Your House a Home: Urban Rituelle Reeds $39.95 and Candle $39.95

OZ Design Furniture: Rickford Mirror Tray Black $169.95, Mandurah Succulent $44.95 and Tribeca Table Lamp $79.95

OZ Design Furniture: Kenya Photo Frame (frame only) $49.95 Make Your House a Home: Rituelle Hand Wash and Hand Cream

Jools for Jim: Inika makeup brushes, organic cosmetic items from $35 and Robe: Status Anxiety Maud Purse $59.95

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Geoff Viney, Ian Hann, Russell Zimmer and Mark O’Farrell

Jake Rienits, Arj Perera, Colin Hogan and Chris Rowlands

Justin Hargreaves, Shayne Hyatt, John and Carmel Harrison

Peter Handberg, Chris and Flynn Harrington

A PASSION FOR GIVING The G.I.F.T. is an organisation headed by a group of women who want to give something back to the community.

and Jeff Holland

They recently teed off for charity hosting a fund golf day which raised funds for the Bendigo Health Foundation’s #Giveback campaign.

A fun day was had by all and the money will go towards buying the latest equipment for the Bendigo Hospital.

Peter and Tanya Roessler, Anthony Rix and Di Ratcliffe

Justine Harrington, Andrea Gahan, Amanda Bailey, Janine Cugura, Rachael Roessler and Vicki Fletcher

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Alex McLennan and Sarah Lawrence

Christine Walsh, Tamsin Ayre and Carmen Jensen

Shelby Toulson, Clare and Richard Martin and Kristian Toulson

Matteo Cerin and Carlotta and Nicolo Zecchetto

TOASTING THE REGION’S WINEGROWERS Glasses in hand, families and friends cruised through the Heathcote Showgrounds mingling with representatives from more than 40 of the region’s wineries and sampling local produce.

The crowds relaxed while listening to some class music acts, and the children enjoyed the fun activities put on again for this year’s event.

Georgia Haines, Millie Parkes, Brynna Lowen and Bridget Lorenz

Jessica Morey, Grace Bannon and Morgan Robertson

With more than 15 years’ experience under their belt, organisers of the festival again put on a wonderful show embraced by wine enthusiasts and newbies alike.

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something old, something new

One of the city’s grand historic homes was given a stylish modern facelift that has only enhanced its historic charms, thanks to careful planning and action by those at the helm of this extensive renovation.

You would think the pressure would be on when it came to renovating and landscaping one of the city’s prominent historic homes, yet this wasn’t the case at all with this impressive project. The interior of the property, outdoor structures and entertainment areas were designed and overseen by e+ architecture. The main building works were undertaken by BLR Provincial Construction, while Simon Rosa Landscaping was responsible for the landscaping, gardens and outdoor areas. Together they took the property, both inside and out, almost back to its shell before modernising and revamping it throughout.

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Interior Photos by Kate Monotti

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The red brick home, situated on an elevated block surrounded by its old and equally impressive neighbours, is a beautiful example of Bendigo’s historic architecture. However, when purchased by its current owners, the home was ready for some serious changes.

“The previous owners had a garden that had shades of Rippon Lea,” Terry Mitton, director of e+ architecture explains. “Not overgrown or unkept, but it was an older rambling garden which didn’t fit the vision the new owners had for the spaces here. Opening up the garden gives the house back its presence and allows for greater views from the property. The grandeur of the house had been overshadowed by the former garden.”

This sentiment was echoed by Simon Rosa, whose selection of flora will create a stylish yet lush garden that works with the strong red colour of the property and its white lattice decorative work and trimmings.

Simon says the classic and clean lines of the garden only highlight the building itself. The garden element of the upgrade took some four months, while the house and structures took about one year. The home itself is one

of the city’s grand buildings and, as is to be expected, Bendigo is proud of its architectural heritage.

“There’s a lot of history about the house, the amount of interest this has had from people driving past and stopping to see what we’re doing, has been great,” Simon says.

“For the outdoor areas we tried to use a lot of old stone, which ties in well and continues throughout, although with the sloping block it was a bit tricky putting in steps. One of the unique things for us about the job was the underground car park. You drive underneath netball and basketball court and grass area.”

The underlying goal was a family property ideal for entertaining, which is precisely what has been achieved.

“The whole area has a heritage overlay meaning there weren’t too many constraints but we still had to go through the usual permit process,” Terry says. “They wanted us to reclaim the old part of the house, and then provide a contemporary extension that had open-plan living. Although the old houses have nice formal rooms and living spaces, 101

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they don’t quite suit how we live today. In modern living we don’t go for separate areas. For example, old houses would have small kitchens and they weren’t generally part of your daily living. Now cooking while entertaining is part of the way we socialise today.

“The design has created opportunities outside for different recreational activities. There is a pool pavilion, a bar, and there’s also an outdoor kitchen and pizza oven; all those elements interact. There is a screen that encloses the area, which offers privacy or can be retracted to open up the area and allow family and friends to enjoy the city views. The front balcony was also extended so it can be accessed from other areas of the house and not just the front door.

“BLR Provincial Construction have great attention to detail, in terms of the finish of the property. We brought it up to the expectations of a prestige, modern home from today. It was working with the footprint of the old building. This has been a marriage of the old and the new, what’s really good is Heritage Victoria don’t want us to mimic and copy or repeat history. You can see what is the original building and what is the new extension; the new compliments the original. We haven’t tried to make a big statement and say ‘well, here we are’. It’s a contemporary form and we’ve used contemporary materials but they’re sympathetic to the original elements of the property.”

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m: 0438 981 586 | p: 03 5442 8966 e: info@simonrosalandscaping.com www.simonrosalandscaping.com 190 Strickland Road, Strathdale

‘Setting the standard for outdoor living’

Zoe Gervasoni and Dale Hose

Adrian Carr and Erin Borrow

AUSSIE ICONS ROCK IN THE VINES

Cameron Lang and Tori Lester

Georgia White and Bronte Deary

Penny Larke, Reece Hendy and Shaun Megson

Iona Roberts and Peter Buszard

Adeline Sanders and Tania Reichart

Lily, Heather and Ella Bennett

In a short space of time, Rock In The Vines has been a must-do for lovers of music, or wine, or both.

This year the crowds packed into Sutton Grange Winery to enjoy another great show.

Headlining this year was Jimmy Barnes, with Jon Stevens, RIchard Clapton and Taxiride also featuring in the line-up.

The winery provides a picturesque setting to lay out a picnic rug or pull out the camping chair and sample a bottle or two while enjoying some of the country’s most successful music artists.

FASHIONS OFF THE FIELD

Macey Boland

The indoor space at LQ Market was transformed recently for a fashion parade celebrating spring and all it has to offer.

Complete with catwalk and side seating it was a stylish affair.

Guests could enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the ensembles paraded down the catwalk. The parade featured new season clothes, shoes and accessories including inspiration for any upcoming summer wedding.

Charlotte Aburrow

Sofia Hogdson and Mila Abercrombie

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Camilla Souza and Marco Roman

Denise and Ray Allcock

Phillip Tellez, Juan Del Valle and Belen Ferrada

Sienna Barrett and Aiden Kramer

ROCKIN’ AT HIT FESTIVAL Across the city, patrons rocked on to the many artists performing with the Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival.

There was no shortage of quality acts at this four-day event, with crowds mingling at parks, pubs and public places to enjoy a variety of performances.

More than 140 homegrown and visiting musicians and bands took the stages of Elaine Clark and Georgia Thompson Bendigo on my mind ad. Hocking 17/05/2017 3:03 PM Nate PageThompson, 1 some 50 venues.

Only ten years in the making.

Bendigo on my mind

Almost a Decade of Stories from

Bendigo Magazine & other thoughts considering the meaning of life

N E W C H U M PRESS

Penny Bradshaw, Candice McLeod, Martin Rabovsky and Bron Handscombe

Now in book form, ‘BENDIGO ON MY MIND’ is an edited and annotated collection of stories as published in BENDIGO Magazine from the Autumn Issue of 2006 (#1) up to the present.

200 pages, A5 paperback, featuring author and illustrator Geoff Hocking’s comical drawings, historic photographs and documents, some colour, mostly black and white — and his mother’s recipe for her traditional Cornish Pasties.

Ten years of reminiscences of life in Bendigo, as it once was and as it sometimes is today.

RRP $25 + $5 postage (boutique edition 100 copies printed) available here and there or from the author casbooks@bigpond.com

BENDIGO MAGAZINE PROMOTION

seeing a world without glasses or contact lenses

By Dr Farokh Irani MBBS (melb), Dip Anat, FRANZCO – ophthalmic surgeon – Eye Surgeons Bendigo Over the past 20 years there have been advancements in procedures that allow people to be free from wearing glasses or contact lenses.

This may be for better vision, aesthetics or to eliminate the encumbrance of spectacles or contact lenses.

We now have a new generation of lenses that are implanted into the eye. The implantation process is via a painless 10-minute procedure, all done under a local anesthetic with no needles. The eye sees better immediately. There are no stitches to remove afterwards and recovery is extremely rapid. The lenses sit inside the eye and last forever. Neither maintenance nor replacement is ever needed. It is a “do once and forget “ experience.

This procedure allows clear focused vision at all distances of viewing – far work like driving, TV; intermediate distance like computer use; near vision use like reading etc.

other hobbies and certain occupations.

Recently, there has been a move by baby boomers to get rid of their need for close vision or “reading glasses”. For most people, glasses are not needed until they reach their late 40s or early 50s.

Thereafter, the need for glasses increases over their lifetime, initially for near vision and then for far vision (driving, TV, socialising). Then, to get rid of their spectacles and still have fantastic youthful vision is like “turning back the clock”.

I have been doing this procedure for 20 years and have done about 15,000 eye operations – both locally and overseas. An experienced surgeon is vital in ensuring success.

FOCUSSED ON EXCELLENCE Our aim is to provide the highest quality eye care.

Achieving the best visual and clinical outcome.

Delivering an excellent service that is respectful, compassionate, professional and friendly.

WE ARE EXPERTS AT • Cataract surgery • Surgery to eliminate glasses Diseases of the Eye • Macular degeneration injections • Diabetic eye disease and other retinal problems • Laser to rid eye floaters • Glaucoma • Eyelid surgery

Principal Eye Surgeon Dr F. B Irani has over 21 years experience treating eye diseases and performing eye surgery.

A very careful appraisal of the potential client is needed, meticulous attention to calculating the type and nature of the lens implant, and above all, very skilled and careful surgery.

The need for glasses is either entirely eliminated or severely reduced to needing them maybe five per cent of the time.

I have completed the procedure for people from all walks of life and backgrounds including well known celebrities, politicians and business executives.

Typical ages are from 35 to 85.

There is a huge cost saving in not needing to buy glasses over a lifetime and the vision is more natural. It is also a great boon for sporting and

The results have been fantastic and the overwhelming feedback from the experience is extremely positive and joyful.

Eye(03) Surgeons Bendigo operate Bendigo Ph: 5442 8322 (Bendigo Dayfrom Surgery) Suite 1, 1 Chum Day Surgery at 1/1 Chum Street, Bendigo.

Phone 5442 8322 or visit www.eyebendigo.com.au

More than a hospital St John of God Bendigo Hospital is a contemporary private hospital providing health care services for people in Bendigo and surrounding areas.

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133-145 Lily Street, Bendigo T. 03 5434 3434 | E. info.bendigo@sjog.org.au www.sjog.or.au/bendigo

wheelin' em in

It may have a masculine image, but motorbike riding is rapidly growing in popularity amongst women, and as these two female riders explain, you don’t necessarily have a choice once riding is in your blood.

By Sue Turpie Two wheels, a roaring engine and the open road. For Carla Phillips and Katie Kemp it’s a beautiful combination. So long as the roaring engine is that of a Ducati Monster.

Since first climbing onto a motorbike, these women knew that riding was something they had to do for themselves. It’s a pastime becoming more popular with women, and with women only riding groups and motorbike events, this is sure to continue.

Katie got into the sport thanks to her husband who also happens to favour a Ducati. It was as a passenger that Carla discovered her love of riding, too. Although it didn’t take either woman long to realise their place was at the front of the bike.

“When Mitch asked me to hop on his bike, I liked it but I didn’t like sitting on the back,” Katie laughs. “I decided I wanted my own license and went from there.” Including to becoming an instructor with a local training company.

Carla has been riding since 2007, before then as a passenger. An accident in 2002 saw her stay off the bike for five years but with determination she obtained her licence and riding is a part of her life now.

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“Once you’ve got the bug, you’ve always got the bug,” Carla says. “I was frightened and anxious about getting back on but once it’s in your blood you’ve just got to do it.”

“I definitely have withdrawals if I don’t do it,” Katie admits. “Usually it’s only few weeks and I’m getting antsy and ready to go out on the road again.”

The choice of bike is such a personal thing, and it seems there are as many different answers as to why that bike, as there are riders on them. For Carla and Katie, the answer is a Ducati, and they’re as loyal to their brand as anyone on a Harley or a Triumph. Talking about their ride for these women is like talking about a dear friend.

“I loved them, everything about them,” Katies says. “Especially the sound.”

“For me it was the sound and the looks,” Carla adds. “There is a bit of a stigma attached to women in terms of colour choice, and some manufacturers like to bring things out in baby pink and blue, but I don’t do those colours.”

Their choice of bike reflects who they are; strong, sound and determined to get

where they want to go. There are practical elements too, such as comfort and a suitable height ensuring it’s easy to reach the ground. Katie named her bike Christine, based on the Stephen King novel. “She’s loyal, she looks after me,” Katie laughs, “she’s a red monster.” She also has a track bike, Sophia, named after Sophia Lauren … “very curvy”. While Carla afffectionately calls hers Bianca; an Italian name which in translation means white.

“We ride with the Ducati club a lot,” Katie says, “and the people are just lovely, and happy to see girls there having a go.

Everyone’s wonderful; it’s like a family. Even though we don’t know each other well you feel part of a group.”

“I could talk bikes all day,” Carla says.

“It’s mutual interest that means you can strike up a conversation. Bikers can talk to each other about anything and everything that’s bikes. It’s the comradery that’s really appealing. If you’re ever in trouble there is always a biker there to help.”

“Search out riding groups, just get out there, and you’ll find people.”

It seems it’s the only way to travel.

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1977

Years

2017

Printing in Central Victoria

20-22 Deborah Street, Bendigo â?˜ 5441 6600

it's all about attitude

When this water ski wizard swaps his wheelchair for a wakeboard, he shows how a winning attitude can overcome life’s biggest challenges and leave you sitting on top of the world.

By Raelee Tuckerman Jason Sleep is a world water ski champion who zigzags at speed around slalom course buoys, and twists and turns at the end of a tow rope performing his latest swag of tricks.

This is all despite the fact he became a paraplegic in a motorbike accident in 2001, then had both legs amputated four years ago after contracting a severe bone infection.

But the 47-year-old from Kangaroo Flat believes life is too short to dwell on misfortune and has turned his adversities into opportunities – and he’s inspiring others to do the same.

“I was going way too fast, visibility was poor and I pulled out to overtake and slammed

into a tree stump on the side of the road,” says Jason of the accident at Lake Eppalock.

“I broke both my arms pretty badly, tore my stomach open, had collapsed lungs, a lot of internal injuries and severed my spinal cord.

I was in the Austin Hospital for nine weeks, then in rehab for four weeks before I signed myself out.

It took two years of hard work and rehab before Jason had recovered to the point where a friend suggested he try seated water skiing, using a wakeboard. He had skied competitively with his family as a youngster and his sister was a former national champion.

“There were a lot of guys in rehab who’d been sitting there for months on end, couldn’t accept their accident and what had happened to them. But I said, ‘yeah, whatever, I’m going home’. Life goes on – it’s taken a different turn but you’ve just got to get on with it.

“I knew I wouldn’t be able to work as a spray painter any more so I thought I’d get into sport,” says Jason. “I resumed skiing in 2004 and by 2006, I was Australian slalom champion. I’ve now been to three world championships, won two world titles and nine Australian titles in slalom and have a world title and several national titles in trick as well.”

“I was back driving within three months.”

At the 2017 Disabled World Water Ski

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Championships, Jason was captain and coach of the Australian team, which earned the number one ranking for the first time, won gold in both his individual events and broke his own world trick record.

These results saw him awarded a full Victorian Institute of Sport scholarship which, along with major sponsor Henry Carus Personal Injury Lawyers and support from the community, allows him to continue his incredible journey.

introduce students to wheelchair basketball and speak about potential consequences of risk-taking behaviour.

“I see thousands of kids a year and talk to them about stupid behaviour, drink-driving, taking drugs, and all the other things they shouldn’t be doing. I tell them, ‘don’t be a peanut’.

“My sporting bill is about $65,000 a year, so without sponsors I couldn’t do any of it. My boat uses $200 a day in fuel and I try to go out five days a week, then there’s competition costs, flights and accommodation. It’s crazy, but I do it because I love it.”

“A lot are off farms and driving machinery from a very young age and when they get out on the road they think they’re bulletproof, and they’re not. I tell them how physically and mentally tough you need to be to handle something like this. We play basketball and have fun and they get out of the chair afterwards and walk away, but for us it is 24/7 for life.”

Jason gives back to the Victorian community, visiting regional schools on behalf of Disability Sport and Recreation to

“The kids see we are no different to other

Jason says the program also builds respect for people in wheelchairs.

people, we just do some things a little differently.”

Jason’s wife, Sam, and daughters Tynesha and Chantelle are well used to his life in the fast lane, his unusual injuries and his never-say-die attitude. As an example of his determination, Jason was out of hospital in 48 hours when his legs were amputated and back water skiing within four weeks.

The same day his stitches were removed!

When Bendigo Magazine caught up with him, Jason was recovering from another bizarre mishap, this time incurred on the ski slopes. “I wasn’t even skiing,” he laughs. “I was just sitting there on my sit-ski talking to my daughter and someone came along and cleaned me up and I suffered a dislocated fracture in my shoulder and tore the rotator cuff off the bone.”

As well as his own sporting achievements, Jason is in demand as a coach for other disabled water skiers and he gains great satisfaction from helping them reach their potential.

“I’m proud of my medals and my records and what I do for Australia, but I am most proud of all the guys and girls I coach. It’s so good to see all their hard work pay off.

“One of these young guys is Will Kelly from Quambatook, who now lives in Bendigo. He became a paraplegic in a car smash as a teenager and I got him to come out skiing.

He has been full on for about six years now and he finished second to me in the worlds in tricks. He’s going to fill my shoes when I retire.”

Not that there are any immediate plans for that. Jason is closing in on the world seated slalom record and plans to compete at the 2019 world titles in Norway and stick around for the 2021 event, which the Bridgewater Ski Club hopes to host.

“This is me, this is what I do, and I love it,” he says. “Life really is good. There’s nothing I can’t do – I just don’t believe in the word can’t.”

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