Bendigo Magazine - Issue 57 - Summer 2019/2020 by Bendigo Magazine

ISSUE 57 | SUMMER 2019/2020 www.bendigomagazine.com.au

hello maestro

THE MUGGLE MUSICIAN

SUNNY IN SEDGWICK BECK HUGHES’ NEW HOME

WEDDING PARTIES THREE LOCAL COUPLES RECAP

ISSN 1833-1289 AUD $5.95 (Inc. GST)

travels with

Twinnie BENDIGO TECH SCHOOL’S RESIDENT TINKER

BENDIGO’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE

MEET THE MANAGEMENT TEAM Craig Tweed - Principal, Darryn O’Keefe - Director, Jason Priestley - General Manager, Nathan Ludeman - Property Management Department Manager, Andrew Pearce - Director and Matt Leonard - Director

Servicing Bendigo since 1976

Tweed Sutherland P (03) 5440 9500 | E tweedsut@tsfn.com.au | www.tsfn.com.au | Find us on

SALES TEAM

CRAIG TWEED Principal – Commercial Sales – Auctioneer

DARRYN O’KEEFE Director – Residential Sales

MATT LEONARD Director – Residential Sales – Auctioneer

ANDREW PEARCE Director – Residential Sales

HELEN ASHBY Residential Sales

TOM HARROP Commercial Sales

BAWA SINGH Residential Sales

WENDY CARMAN Residential Sales

REBECCA MANCINI Residential Sales

SARAH NOBLE Residential Sales

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT TEAM

NATHAN LUDEMAN Manager – Property Department Manager

YOLENA HUTTON Business Development Manager

SHELLEY EUVRARD Commercial & Owners Corporation Manager

JOE CHRISTENSEN-EATON Commercial Assistant Manager

JODI CARLYON Senior Property Manager

CASEY WYNNE Senior Property Manager

JESSICA ACQUISTO Senior Property Manager

PAULA PIANTA Senior Property Manager

JESS SPEECHLEY Senior Property Manager

EMMA BARRI Senior Property Manager

KEISHA WILLIAMS Assistant Property Manager

ANNALISE COUGHLAN Assistant Property Manager

CASEY BLAINE Assistant Property Manager

ASHLEY ASTBURY Assistant Property Manager

BRIDGET HILL Assistant Property Manager

ADMINISTRATION/FINANCE/MARKETING TEAM

JASON PRIESTLEY General Manager

MICHAEL RYAN Accountant

HAYDEN DEVANNY Assistant Accountant

JUDI LUDEMAN Sales & Legal Secretary

JANINE BLAKE Administration

HAYLEE COOMBS Marketing

www.tsfn.com.au

STEPHANIE AXON Reception

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dear reader, Need any more reasons to be besotted with Bendigo? “I’ve fallen in love,” says Twinnie the Tinker, “because of the opportunities and the history and because it’s a town that makes stuff.” Sometimes it takes a newcomer to help you see your city with fresh eyes. Twinnie is right. While the history is something physical we live among every day, the opportunities are becoming just as tangible. Take, for one, the Bendigo Creative Industries Hub that’s about to open in Mitchell Street. Thanks to generous Creative Victoria funding, it will foster a whole heap of talented folk right in the heart of the city. Put them together and who knows what will happen. Young artists are being commissioned to add to our public mural collection, like the four featured within, and seasoned pros are nurturing newbies in their own home studios, like Darren Crothers on page 22. Bendigo has also won the bid to host one of the country’s fastest-growing cultural events, the Lost Trades Fair, after it outgrew its original Kyneton location. We cover these stories of the handmade, the hard won and more. We look for opportunities, to share faces and places we know you’ll love. We feel the responsibility of making a magazine that celebrates who we are right now, with a sense that we’re adding to the story of who we were. Those old Bendigo Magazines never go away! And neither do the stories. Keep ‘em coming, Bendigo. With all best wishes for a merry Christmas and a fun summer beyond,

LAUREN MITCHELL 6

EDITOR Lauren Mitchell PHOTOGRAPHER Leon Schoots CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dustin Schilling WRITERS Geoff Hocking, John Holton, Kate O’Connor, Raelee Tuckerman and Marina Williams CONTRIBUTORS Beau Cook, Lisa Chesters and Ashley Raeburn 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.

BIG NEWS

BENDIGO FORD IS UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT AND OWNERSHIP

events

30 November – 1 March Going Solo: First Nations Exhibition Bendigo Art Gallery www.bendigoregion.com.au

PEOPLE & LIFE 29

contents ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 22

December - February Summer in the Parks www.bendigosummerintheparks.com

Staring down the muse - Darren Crothers Wallflowers bloom - Bendigo’s street art

Matt of all trades - Matt Twin

7 December - 1 March Paul Guest Exhibition Bendigo Art Gallery www.bendigoregion.com.au

With birds and bees - Beck Hughes

December 15 Christmas with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Ulumbarra Theatre www.bendigoregion.com.au

Home is where the welcome is - Michelle Stares New chapter for federal member - Lisa Chesters Chasing time - Natalie Gould

December 22 Bendigo Carols by Candelight Rosalind Park www.bendigoregion.com.au

Singing her own song - Janelle Hopman

December 15 Bertocchi Christmas Party Raceday Bendigo Jockey Club www. country.racing.com/bendigo

Hair today, gone tomorrow! - Bendigo Memories

102 Simone and Luke’s native home

Creating the hub - Bendigo Creative Industries Hub

The fair to find - Lost Trades Fair

- Home Feature

January 13-26 BTC’s Little Red Riding Hood: The Pantomime Girton Black Box ww.bendigoregion.com.au

107 Cyclists ride for safety

- Jason Lowndes Cycling Squad

110 Routine moves - Ruby Conti

Take a bow - Luke Severn

Plenty of fun - Summer In The Parks

102

December 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Rosalind Park Poppet Head www.bendigoregion.com.au January 3 Outdoor Cinema Screening: Christopher Robin Redesdale Recreation Reserve www.bendigosummerintheparks.com January 24 Outdoor Cinema Screening: The Lego Movie Axedale Park www.bendigosummerintheparks.com

FOOD, WINE & WEDDINGS 82

Lucy and Brayden - MacKenzie Quarters Dairy queen - Semifreddo with Beau Cook Toast to twenty nineteen - Wine review with Ashley Raeburn Catherine and Evan - Sacred Heart Cathedral Abbey and Warrick - Sutton Grange Winery

82 8

February 15 Bendigo Ford Marong Cup Bendigo Jockey Club www. country.racing.com/bendigo

January 26 Australia Day celebrations Various locations www.bendigosummerintheparks.com February 5-9 Bendigo Chamber Music Festival Various Locations www.bendigoregion.com.au February 9 Joss House Temple Lantern Festival Bendigo Joss House www.bendigoregion.com.au February 29 Scots Day Out Rosalind Park www.bendigoregion.com.au

CMY

CHRISTMAS WITH THE MSO Get a jumpstart on Christmas and jingle with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at Ulumbarra Theatre on December 15. The concert is billed as a celebration of family, love, happiness and music, with conductor Benjamin Northey leading the world-class orchestra through a traditional and contemporary repertoire that will include some all-time favourite festive tunes, such as Jingle Bells and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

the culture centre

Join soprano and ARIA Award nominee Greta Bradman as she sings White Christmas, Silent Night and many more favourites. Santa is tipped to make a special appearance. Book at gotix.com.au

Once again Bendigo delivers a creative feast for Christmas 2019 and beyond, with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Bendigo Chamber Music Festival both on the bill. NEW EXHIBITION EXPLORES EVERYDAY THEMES Themes of mental health, youth culture and identity are the focus of the latest exhibition at the Bendigo Art Gallery. In What’s on your mind?, Yorta Yorta/ Gunditjmara artist Josh Muir has created a series of interactive large-scale multimedia works that draw on Indigenous history and his personal story. Josh is the award recipient of the inaugural Going Solo: First Nations program. His graphic style is influenced by street art and images from pop culture. He combines kaleidoscopic prints with landscape photographs to showcase the vitality of Indigenous visual culture. “My work is heavily influenced by artists like KAWS. His simple, yet effective way of designing characters and connecting with audiences on a large scale is what I hope to achieve one day,” he says. “What’s on your mind? is about my personal view of being and is a reflection of my environment. I am raising awareness around mental health and connection to Country through my art.” For this exhibition, Josh worked closely with Bendigo Art Gallery First Nations

curator Shonae Hobson. “The Going Solo: First Nations program is an integral part of Bendigo Art Gallery’s schedule and gives us an opportunity to support and work closely with our First Nations artists living in regional Victoria,” Shonae says. “The augmented reality

component of the exhibition will allow audiences to engage with Josh’s art through a dynamic and meaningful way, and also enable visitors to appreciate the nuances of Indigenous visual art and culture.” What’s on your mind? is at Bendigo Art Gallery until March 1.

music to hit right note A new music festival in the heart of Bendigo’s arts precinct will showcase world-class chamber musicians at 15 concerts over five days in February. Photograph by Julia Wesely The Bendigo Chamber Music Festival will feature a mix of local, national and international musicians, including members of the famed Chamber Orchestra of Europe (COE) as artists-in-residence, at various venues from February 5 to 9. Australian-based artists will include Melbourne Symphony Orchestra concertmaster Sophie Rowell, Sydney Symphony principal viola Tobias Breider, sought-after tenor Andrew Goodwin, renowned local soprano Merlyn Quaife and leading pianist Daniel de Borah. Also featuring will be Europe-based ANAM alumna Lily Higson-Spence and a chamber group from Australian Youth Orchestra. Festival co-director Howard Penny says he is thrilled have COE colleagues at the festival. “Combining the benchmark house style of COE music-making, honed over decades of working with the world’s best, with top Australian-based musicians is a recipe for unique quality and energy: a good reason to start a festival,” he says.

COE general manager Simon Fletcher says the festival aligns to the orchestra’s principles of excellence, innovation and energy – “characteristics which we also recognise in this wonderful new project in regional Victoria. This is a perfect partnership and one we are excited to develop.” Many of the European artists are also principals or guest principals in leading orchestras, such as London Symphony Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, Covent Garden and BBC Symphony. Masterworks featured in the program include Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet, Beethoven’s Second Symphony, and Schubert’s Trout piano quintet. The co-directors say they will stand alongside some remarkable lesser known gems and works that showcase the dynamic and benchmark COE interpretative style. Fellow festival co-director Chris Howlett says while the program encompasses a broad range of works, it will also focus on

education, with a week-long, in-depth music program that will involve musicians visiting 12 primary schools, conducting masterclasses for secondary and amateur musicians and hosting cushion concerts for toddlers. BCMF has also invited community choirs from Adelaide and Melbourne to Bendigo for the festival. They will work with the Bendigo Chamber Choir throughout the week, culminating in a main-stage performance on the Saturday. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the community and visitors to the region to celebrate world-class chamber music in February,” says Terry Karamaloudis, manager of tourism and major events at the City of Greater Bendigo. “The community engagement and education program will also offer a unique experience for local Bendigo choirs and musicians to perform with international and Australian artists.” For program information, visit www.bendigocmf.com.au 11

COLLECTION EXPLORES EVOLUTION OF AUSTRALIAN ABSTRACT ART Visitors to the Bendigo Art Gallery this summer will get to view a rare collection of modern and contemporary Australian paintings and drawings. Known as the Paul Guest Collection, the artworks are the result of more than five decades of collecting by the former Olympic rower and Family Court judge. The paintings, drawings and sculpture have a focus on abstraction and conceptualism and, when viewed together, offer a picture of the evolution of a defined period of Australian art, says gallery director Jessica Bridgfoot. She says Paul Guest is drawn to “tough paintings”, as they speak to the philosophies and politics of life, and representational works that focus on explorations of humanity. Close relationships with artists have been a defining factor in his approach to collecting, and this exhibition reveals his passion for art and artists. © Jan Senbergs, Courtesy the Artist and Niagara Galleries, Melbourne

RACE DAY GIVES BACK TO COMMUNITY The Bendigo Jockey Club is readying for one of its biggest race days – the Phil Palma Bendigo Ford Marong Cup on February 15. The popular event doubles as a fundraiser for local Catholic primary schools. Families are encouraged to pack a picnic and throw out a rug on the manicured lawns to enjoy the race action and all-day entertainment, which will include a course full of

children’s rides and activities. For those wanting to indulge on the day, food, drink and marquee packages are available. The Bendigo Jockey Club hosts the event in conjunction with the Marong Racing Club. Serious punters can track the race action from the mounting yard to the winning post. Race day attire is casual, and parking will be free on the day. Gates open at 11am, visit www.country.racing.com for more details.

“As with everything Paul Guest does, he has collected art with drive, intelligence and passion, and his collection is an important record of mid-century to contemporary Australian conceptual art. It is a joy to work with a patron who is so passionate and knowledgeable about the merits of drawing and artistic practice generally,” she says. The Paul Guest Collection is at Bendigo Art Gallery from December 7 to March 1, 2020.

New name for a new era Capital Venues and Events - The City of Greater Bendigo’s business unit that manages the operations, programming and hire of Bendigo’s key venues including Ulumbarra Theatre, The Capital, The Engine Room, Bendigo Town Hall and Dudley House – will change its name to Bendigo Venues & Events in 2020.

A rapid expansion in business activity and profile in recent years has created the need to establish a ‘mother brand’, which does not include the name of any single venue and clearly locates the unit in Bendigo. Manager David Lloyd said that in the past five years since the opening of Ulumbarra Theatre, the team had built a reputation for excellence in performing arts. “We have been recognised for our work at a national level, winning a Drover Award in 2018 for the Australian Performing Arts Centre of the Year,” Mr Lloyd said. “Our new name is a logical step to ensure the work we do is recognised locally, regionally and nationally as being based in Bendigo.” Timed to coincide with the change in name, Bendigo Venues & Events has also reviewed and adopted a vision, mission and set of values specific to its business activity. A new programming policy will be adopted in 2020. Mr Lloyd said the unit had developed objectives relevant to its unique business. “Our vision supports the City of Greater Bendigo’s vision and values and closely aligns with the themes of the Greater CREATIVE Bendigo Strategy” he said. “Our team has thought deeply about the nature of our work and the important role we play in contributing to Bendigo’s arts and cultural landscape. Mr Lloyd said Bendigo Venues & Events was perfectly positioned to continue its work to enrich and delight Greater Bendigo residents. Our business is growing, our partnerships are many and varied, and we strive to innovate and excite...bring on the 2020s!” Bendigo Venues & Events provides ticketing services, event management, marketing, technical and production management services for its venues.

It produces, promotes and delivers events such as the Bendigo Writers Festival, Cushion Concerts, The Engine Room presents… a touring program for small towns throughout central Victoria, the Bendigo Chamber Music Festival and the Bendigo International Festival of Exploratory Music, as well as a year-round program of musical and theatrical highlights. The unit also supports the community arts sector through a variety of programs and funding opportunities. Bendigo Venues & Events Vision To deliver regional Australia’s most dynamic performing arts programs and cultural activity, for a vibrant, creative community. Bendigo Venues & Events Mission We enrich and delight. We champion and encourage those who create and perform. We are dedicated to inspiring and being inspired. We exist to enrich the lives of those around us and to delight them with our passion for the arts. We bring our community together, to share culture and celebrate creativity.

bendigo venues & events

Proudly owned and operated by the City of Greater Bendigo. The City of Greater Bendigo is on Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Country.

FURNITURE DESIGNED FOR YOU Custom-made furniture built to fit your needs can be discovered at New Life Timber. Owned by Bendigo local Brendan Ryan, New Life Timber boasts a team of talented craftspeople with years of cabinetry and design experience. They specialise in creating furniture from new and reclaimed timber, with all pieces finished with eco-friendly stains and lacquers. “Our focus is on designing the perfect piece for the customer, and it is built to suit their needs,” Brendan says. “Everything is made in Bendigo and all timber is sustainably sourced – it’s great to be able to supply local people with beautiful hand-crafted furniture.” If you’re seeking inspiration, New Life Timber’s large, on-site showroom has furniture on display, from cabinets and tables to vanities and sideboards. There’s no charge for a quote or design appointment. “We are always happy to discuss ideas. If you have a photo of something that you’ve seen and like, or even a page from a magazine, bring it in and we can work with you to design the furniture that you want and need,” he says. “We want to educate and show people that it doesn’t cost any more to get a custom piece that is unique and perfect for their needs, compared with buying something already made that might not ideally suit what you need it for.” The showroom at 2 Hinch Court, Bendigo, is open weekdays from 10am-5.00pm and on Saturdays from 10am-1pm. For more information, visit www.newlifetimber.com.au

stronger together

Support, care and expertise is at hand for others, at all stages of life. A NO-STRESS APPROACH TO BUILDING A new Bendigo startup is set to shake up the local building industry. Dogged by long waiting times for quotes and “creative” pricing estimates that blow out as the build progresses, home buyers have been crying out for transparent pricing and fast turnaround times on quotes. Enter Lane Housing Co., the brainchild of three construction professionals with decades of experience. Lane has quickly established itself as an innovative new player in the market, with fresh ideas and a stress-free approach to building. Anyone who has ever built a home has been frustrated by the upto-eight-week wait it takes to receive a quote. In the age of Uber Eats and instant downloads, a two-month wait for anything seems excessive. Lane Housing Co. provide quotes in two or three days – not months. It’s this proactive approach to communication that led Jason Peters to choose Lane Housing Co. to build his second home. His first experience was fraught with problems and he was frustrated by the builder’s response to any issues. Not with Lane. “Andrew and Luke built this house like it was their own. Their project management is excellent and I’ve not had any sleepless nights worrying, because I know they’re making sure it’s 100 percent right.” Another reason for this success is Lane’s in-house team, which comes up with individualised designs for each site. Lane’s stress-free approach also extends to their transparent pricing structure. No upselling extras, no nasty surprises – just beautiful homes that stay within budget.

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GLENWILLOW WINES A CROWD PLEASER Since the early 1990s, Peter and Cherryl Fyffe have been cultivating the vines at their Yandoit Creek property and creating award-winning wines under the Glenwillow Wines label. At the recent Bendigo Heritage Uncorked wine festival, attendees voted Glenwillow Wines as the Most Popular Winery. Its 2013 Reserve Shiraz was awarded Most Popular Wine overall, and their 2016 Sparkling Shiraz and 2016 Nebbiolo also gained popular applause – an amazing result for this familyoperated boutique winery.

NEW OWNERS READY FOR SERVICE

beer and a local craft beer are also on tap.

The new owners of Bunja Thai are looking forward to serving their new menu through summer.

Bunja Thai is situated in Pall Mall in a beautiful William Vahland-designed former bank that was built in 1887. Its vaulted ceilings remain, and the former bank vault has been converted into a wine cellar.

It features a range of authentic Thai dishes from Arunee Boonchuay (Ploy) and Chatchai Lanjanthuek (Tee). “Our chefs are highly skilled in Thai culinary practices and will make you a meal you will keep coming back for,” says Ploy. To accompany your chosen dish is a subtle selection of local Bendigo and regional wines, or you can choose to sip a drop of locally grown Asawa wine that is exclusive to the restaurant. Thai Singha

The restaurant is open each weekday Monday to Saturday from 11.30am for lunch, with listed $12 specials. and dinner is from 5.30pm. The takeaway menu is vast and there is a 10 percent discount for evening orders. To book a table, order takeaway or pick up your meal, phone 5441 8566 or visit www.bunjathai.com.au

The three-hectare vineyard is located on the Sandon-Yandoit Road, in the cooler fringe of the premium red winegrowing region between Castlemaine and Daylesford. The elevated, northfacing aspect maximises the sun for vine growth, and regular soft breezes help with disease control and gentle ripening of the grapes, especially the Italian varieties Nebbiolo and Barbera. The Fyffe clan and friends have worked together happily in this unique and picturesque winery. The Fyffes pride themselves on following sustainable, minimal intervention viticulture to produce premium, awardwinning wines at the best possible prices. Their Glenwillow wines have gained considerable accolades over their 20 years of winegrowing. Their wines consistently score well in James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion, and they have also won many trophies and gold medals at wine shows. Their top-class offerings include Shiraz, Nebbiolo, Barbera and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Glenwillow Cellar Club offers access to special releases and back vintages and members-only pricing to their loyal followers. Their cellar door is located at the Bendigo Pottery Precinct. It is here you will discover much more than just their award-winning wines, with a display of Australian opals from the family opal mine in White Cliffs in outback NSW (where Peter and Cherryl live underground in a comfortable dugout), olive oils from the local area and fantastic artwork at Cherryl’s Etcetera Print Gallery, including her own prints and work by other local artists. For more information, visit www.glenwillow.com.au

THE SEASON FOR BEING OUTDOORS Coolabah Turf is ready to help families celebrate the great outdoors. With a little instant turf magic, you can transform your yard into the ultimate outdoor space. In delivering instant-lawn landscape solutions you can have the best-looking lawn in the street while also creating the perfect canvas on which to encourage kids to play. They offer no-fuss solutions for all yards – big and small. If you want to create an amazing outdoor space where lifelong, childhood memories will be made, consider the current state of your lawn. If you have an existing lawn that just needs a little TLC these quick tips could get your turf back on track: 1. Aerate the ground to help oxygen get into the root system.

DIY turf-install project could be your solution and not as costly as you might expect, simply:

2. Turn on the tap. While Coolabah Turf specialises in drought-tolerant, low water grass varieties, all lawns do need a base amount of water to thrive.

1. Prepare your site.

3. Apply a fertiliser.

4. Phone Coolabah Turf and place your order.

If your lawn needs more intensive help, a

2. Choose your preferred turf variety. 3. Measure your area.

CHANGING LIVES WITH BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT For many individuals and families, behaviours of concern can lead to isolation, fear and stress; preventing normal life participation and interaction within their community. Megan Phillips, senior behavioural specialist at Amicus Behavioural Support Services, works with many individuals whose behaviour has created complex issues. “Families may be unable to cope with an individual’s behaviour and will access respite. At times, this respite is not able to be maintained and the family may relinquish care – a difficult situation that is often detrimental to the individual”. Behaviours of concern can include, but are not limited to, self-harm, aggression and violence, property damage, socially and sexually inappropriate behaviour and interactions with police or the criminal justice system. “People who engage in behaviours of concern are often trying to communicate something, such as discomfort, confusion, or unmet needs, requiring assistance to communicate or navigate the situation” advises Megan.

With a little instant turf magic, you can transform your sacred backyard space into a place to slow down, spend quality time with family and friends, and get back in touch with Mother Nature and the multitude of physical and mental health benefits she provides. Visit www.coolturf.com.au for more information on how to get your yard ready for living this summer.

Recent changes to the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Framework in relation to restrictive interventions have reduced the number of practitioners able to provide behavioural support services. All Amicus Behavioural Support practitioners are fully compliant and approved. Support includes a registered psychologist, experience and knowledge of the disability and health sectors and the local community. “We provide services under the NDIS Improved Relationships (specialist behaviour intervention and behaviour management plan), as well as therapeutic supports and improved daily living (individual counselling and assessment, recommendations and therapy)” says Megan. The highly experienced, specialist team seeks to understand behaviours of concern from multiple perspectives and have undertaken additional training such as applied behaviour analysis. “We provide a place-based response that providers in Melbourne who do not understand the region are simply not able to deliver”. “Any person with concerns can call our office to obtain the information they require for this service” The Amicus Behavioural Support Service team is located at 90 Queen Street, Bendigo and can be contacted on 5441 2666. 17

GATHER, CELEBRATE AND STAY Located in The Arts Precinct in the heart of the city, MacKenzie Quarters is the ideal gathering place to connect, socialise, laugh and celebrate. The entertainment hub was created following the rejuvenation of a 140-yearold school hall and deanery. Now, it’s creating history in a contemporary context, welcoming guests and allowing them to celebrate their special occasion in style. MacKenzie Quarters incorporates four elements – a place to stay, space in which to celebrate, a Lounge Bar and an outdoor courtyard space. The Residence offers boutique accommodation for groups of 10-12 people in a beautiful two-storey, red-brick gothic revival-style family home. Host your special occasion at MacKenzie Hall or ceremony in The Old School Yard and, from February 2020, relax in the lounge bar that will be Ms Batterhams. The events team will work with you and their extensive list of supplier partners to design and deliver an event that reflects their personality and brief. Find out more at www.mackenziequarters.com

DELIGHTFULLY BRINGING GIFTS Nestled in the bustling Bath Lane shopping precinct is the haven of calmness that is Organise My…..Gift Giving For 11 years, the store has been a popular destination for Bendigonians and travellers who appreciate beautiful stationery and homewares, or who are just seeking a little wellbeing ‘fix’. “Some might say it’s more like a gallery, with objects delicately placed and displayed with affection, which can make shopping a truly enjoyable experience,” says Elle, who has owned the store since March last year. “Our customers comment that they can always find something out of the ordinary for the perfect gift and they really love the free gift wrapping service we offer. We’ve created a relaxing haven, a piece of calm amongst the craziness of retail.” The store features more than 6000 products from some of Australia’s best designers, such as Ecoya, Fox & Fallow, Red Tractor, Myrtle + Moss, and Compendium. In the past 18 months, Elle has introduced some delightful new additions to the Organise My…..Gift Giving range. “Our vast range offers something for everyone to help organise your travel needs, your garden, your wedding planning, your eco-friendly cleaning needs, your wellbeing, and most of all, your gift giving,” Elle says. “We also offer the biggest range of beautiful, good-quality greeting cards in Bendigo as well as many inspirational items including; books, journals, cards, porcelain plaques and trinkets. Most of all, our staff are warm and welcoming and absolutely love finding solutions to our customers’ needs.”

POPULAR KIDS’ SHOP GROWS The owners of Tiny Sprout, one of Bendigo’s favourite kids’ stores, are excited to open their latest pop-up shop in the CBD. The bright and light-filled store, located at 3 King Street, is a welcoming space full of gorgeous goodies for the little people in your life. Tiny Sprout is run by mother and daughter duo. In August they won the Customer Focussed category of the 2019 Bendigo Business Excellence Awards. They say their speciality is to source unique and affordable goodies that are kind to the earth for tiny ones and their mums. Items are ethically made, Australian-designed and manufactured to wear, gift and play. Tiny Sprout offers customers a wide range of popular brands online and in store, including Jamie Kay, Nature Baby, Wilson and Frenchy, The Rest, Frankly Eco, BIBS Dummies, Snuggle Hunny Kids, Miniland and Write To Me. “It’s the place to find all the perfect presents to pop under the tree this Christmas,” Janice from Tiny Sprout says. “We pride ourselves on ensuring each customer has a wonderful experience, because offering fantastic customer service is important at Tiny Sprout.”

Customers can shop online at www.tinysprout.com.au or visit the store Monday to Saturday.

RALLYING TO SUPPORT MATES #wegotyoumate is a new support group in Bendigo that is getting men talking.

FEELING AT HOME Being embraced by community is a focus of the Bendigo Retirement Village, with its busy post office and store a thriving hub. “It’s where people come to make the most of full postal services, and even purchase their papers, magazines, or a litre of milk,” says village manager Neil Drummond. “What sets us apart is that all our residents have a strata title agreement and own their unit – it gives the place a genuine village feel, but with all the security and peace of mind that comes with being part of a supported community.” Residents can enjoy as much independence and privacy as they choose and have access to a range of facilities and village activities. The community centre includes a large dining room that can be used for special occasions, a billiards room, internet kiosk, resident gym, bar and bowls area. The library is airconditioned, and in winter a

warm log fire makes it a cosy place to sit and chat or just read a book. There is also a hairdressing salon and facilities on site for other visiting professionals, such as a podiatrist, massage therapist, audiologist and beauty therapist. “Our philosophy is that we will try and do whatever residents can’t do for themselves,” Neil says. “We have onsite maintenance staff and gardeners responsible for the village grounds, but we also encourage residents to enjoy gardening and grow their own vegetables in our community vegie patch.”

The support group is national and encourages men to reach out for help, seek advice and access mental health services if they are in need. Its focus is men’s mental health and aims to help break down barriers and the stigma that “men don’t talk”. Monthly get-togethers are just for men and events are child friendly. Mental health professionals also attend some activities to ensure direction can be provided to further support services, when needed.

A 24-hour emergency system is monitored by local staff and the new village courtesy bus offers regular trips to shops in the local area and CBD.

Organisers say the support group was created in response to too many lives being taken due to men suffering in silence. They believe it’s something that can be changed if communities rally together. A private Facebook page also offers support.

For details, contact Penny on 5442 3000 or 1800 013 451, or visit www.bendigorv.com.au

You can donate to #wegotyoumate at www.wegotyoumate.org.au or wegotyoumate@bigpond.com

Supporting you from injury, through rehabilitation, into wellness

new

CLINICAL EXERCISE STUDIO purpose built clinic/gym opening January 2019 AND GYM

19 86 McIvor Road, Bendigo and 123 Condon Street, Kennington t 5443 5411 www.fusionphysiotherapy.com.au

86 McIvor Road, Bendigo and 123 Condon Street, Kennington t 5443 5411 www.fusionphysiotherapy.com.au

Kerrie Charter, Bethany Price, Courtney Rhode, Spence Thomson and Amy Price

Kerrie Charter, Judy Keatch and Spence Thomson

Kerrie Charter, Kate Newman and Spence Thomson

Kerrie Charter, Rochelle Griffin, Leonnie Tresize and Spence Thomson

Linda Reed-Enever, Clive Enever, Kerrie Charter and Spence Thomson

Nadia Black, Sue and Paul Johns and Tamara Thompson

STORE WELCOMES AMBASSADORS Staff, supporters and friends were on hand to celebrate Rug Addiction’s ambassador launch night. With champagne flowing they mingled with the store’s new brand ambassadors, Kerrie and Spence from The Block 2018, while checking out the extensive range of floor coverings and décor items at the Kangaroo Flat store.

eplus@eplusarchitecture.com.au

www.eplusarchitecture.com.au

Harley Welsh, Jason Allan and Emma Allan

Jo Bourke, Matilda Sobey, Deb Bourke and Indi Sobey

CELEBRATING TOGETHER Kael Robas, Jonathan Vu, Caitlin Louey, Brielle Maule and Isabelle Zupan

Melody Li, Maggie Ma and Nick Lin

The Dai Gum San Precinct was filled with colour and laughter as hundreds gathered to celebrate the Harvest Moon Festival in September.

Maryanne Darroch and Zoe Willis

Tristan Faux, Lara Faux, Veda Thomas and Spike Thomas

The festival is celebrated in different forms throughout many Asian countries, sharing common themes of thanksgiving for the harvest, future prosperity and health of families and friends. For Bendigo, the timing aligned with the arrival of Spring.

What’s Your Dream?

OPEN EVENING 2020

Wednesday 18 March 4-7pm | Coolock Campus, Junortoun

Make It Happen In 2020! DISCOVER ALL THE EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES ON OFFER TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS. Tour the new Sister Aloysius Martyn Arts Centre, discover contemporary technology, STEAM integrated learning, instrumental music and agriculture, and see the plans for an exciting new sports hub.

Transition Days Thursday 7 & Friday 8 May

Enrolments Open Wednesday 18 March

Enrolments Close Friday 12 June

CALL TO BOOK A COLLEGE TOUR ON A REGULAR SCHOOL DAY. ENROLMENT ENQUIRIES

Audra Petri College Registrar

5449 3466

info@cmc.vic.edu.au

Catherine McAuley College | A Ministry of Mercy Education Ltd | ABN 69 154 531 870

www.cmc.vic.edu.au

staring down the muse A Maiden Gully artist asks and answers the big questions via paint, time and talent. By Lauren Mitchell – Photograph by Leon Schoots There’s one painting in Darren Crothers’ studio that begs extra attention. It shows the artist, alongside an older man, tending the neck of a guitar rising from the earth. It’s a realistic imagining, and, Darren explains, a comment on the nature of talent. “I was exploring that whole concept of ‘what is talent’,” Darren says. “And it’s that whole inclination to want to do something. And you don’t just want to do it, you really want to do it well, to the best of your ability. You want to explore it for yourself to see how good you can be. You discover your limitations and how many barriers you can push to find those new plateaus of excellence. “That whole idea of talent; you’ve got to work really hard to get it out. It’s got to be worked at, got to be dug out and tended. It’s something that’s got to be discovered, developed and refined.” Darren is just the person to know about that. He’s been pushing the plateau for decades, to the point where his full-time workplace is this light and lofty studio, backing onto

the bush behind his Maiden Gully home. Darren is in here, mostly painting, sometimes teaching, four-and-a-half days a week. “I do enjoy my own company,” he says. The other half day he’s at the life drawing session he organises for The Avenue Studios, a not-forprofit group supporting local artists. Darren knows the value of sharing expertise and passion for art, for he is part of a strong and historic network of artists who’ve passed on the baton, stretching all the way back to Australia’s oldest art school, Julian Ashton Art School, with alumni like Brett Whiteley and John Olsen. But first, let’s wind back a little… Darren grew up in North Bendigo. He says his only exposure to art as a kid was through Warner Bros cartoons and DC comics, and he went through school aspiring to become a police officer. “The police force had height restrictions at the time and I was too short,” he says. “So I went into mechanical drafting instead and went to Melbourne to work for a company called Mistral. 23

“Draftsmen worked below industrial designers, which are the more conceptual guys, and I saw that happening and thought, wow, that’s the job to have because that is where you’re using your imagination and coming up with ideas. “So, I went back to TAFE (in Bendigo) and did the art and design course to get together a good portfolio to get me into industrial design, which I did get into in Melbourne, but by that time some of the teachers at TAFE had enthused me for the love of fine art. I was exposed to elements of art I’d never seen before, which was really exciting.” He describes learning about the great masters, and their expression of the spirit of their time. Bendigo art teacher, the late Janet Goodchild-Cuffley, encouraged Darren to then study with Lance McNeill at his Melbourne Academy of Realist Artists, known as MARA, which he did part-time for a couple of years. There he learnt about the Ashton school at The Rocks in Sydney, the place with “an incredible pedigree, which was kind of daunting.” His growing portfolio qualified him for a place in 1995. After the three-year course Darren stayed in Sydney to paint with portrait artist Graeme Inson at his beautiful two-storey terrace studio in Glebe. “Once I spent the three years there, I felt I had enough skills to come back and start exploring what I’d learnt and make it my own,” he says on returning to Bendigo. Darren’s work is now enjoyed throughout Victoria. He’s a regular at regional art shows and this year was Artist in Residence for the Bendigo Easter Art Show in the Town Hall. His classical oil paintings of nostalgic Aussie food scenes were a favourite. Take, for one, the work titled Friday Night Fish and Chips, the bounty laid out in butcher’s paper, with the iconic Rosella sauce and Skipping Girl vinegar bottles beside. Another painting of a humble meat pie was given the same light-soaked treatment. “I took a classical Dutch lighting and put a meat pie in it, where Dutch artists had lobsters and crayfish and goblets of wine,”

Darren says. “You look for those themes that resonate with you, so hopefully resonate with others.” Even better if those “others” are Archibald judges. Darren’s selfportrait, Black Sheep of the Family, was a finalist in the country’s biggest portrait prize. “It’s just affirmation, that your peers see what you’re doing as valid,” he says on the success. “I’m always putting art out there regardless, but if you get that affirmation by those meant to be the gatekeepers of the art community, it helps you keep doing what you’re doing.” The painting was Darren’s comment on being the only artist in his family of farmers, police officers and nurses. “For me, the black sheep was a way of acknowledging I’m a little different than everyone else,” he says. “I guess I felt I was a little out of the ordinary. Being an artist isn’t a nine-to-five job and there was not a linear path showing ‘this is where you start and this is what you do’. It’s totally unpredictable and totally uncertain.” Darren credits the support of his family – his wife, Kimberlea, and their children for supporting him to live this life of unpredictability. He says while none have followed his path, art has had an influence. “I think they’ve seen the importance of creativity,” he says. “I don’t think art changes people, but it can create a conversation, and I guess in that sense our children have grown up with the belief that it’s important to have conversations about everything they believe in, and I think that’s given them direction.” For Darren, the way forward is still about unearthing his own capabilities. “Art is a journey and there’s not ever a point you reach where you say, I’m satisfied. In a technical sense you’re always looking to improve, to build on what you’ve got, those intuitive foundational skills. Especially ideas and understanding the importance of creative ideas. And that’s what makes a great artist, expressing creative ideas that resonate with people, in a way that people ‘get it’. When that all comes together, you get a terrific painting.”

Al Martin, Helen Rothacker, Andie Downing and Penny Murdoch

Alice Fraser, Ruby Hogan, Toby Fraser, Jude Fraser and Nash Hogan

Kayla, Rohhan, Tom and Leanne

Ruby and Izzy Webster

Sherie Corp and Matt Butler

Tom Carboon and Paul Scott

GEM SHOW SPARKLES ‘If it sparkles they will come’ could almost be the theme of the Gem and Mineral Exhibition. Each year, the expo brings in the crowds keen to see the latest work from members of the Bendigo Gem Club. While stalls offered up myriad rough minerals, polished gemstones and handmade jewellery, artisans demonstrated their skills. Visitors also tried their luck at rock sifting and gold panning.

- 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 I can provide a wide range of services and support. As yourdon’t Federal Member of in Parliament, my office and Ieither can provide a Please 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) 5443or9055 email at lisa.chesters.mp@aph.gov.au on (03) 5443 9055 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

Daniel Mitchell, Mitchell Daly and Jack Tobin

Dave Thomas, John Clyne and Emily Thompson-Young

FINALS BRINGS IN CROWDS Tate and Tony McQueen

Nathan Horbury, Callum Crisp and Kaiden Antonowicz

Riley Erwin, Ollie Hannaford and Archer Day-Wicks

Sophie Banfield, Gracie Whitfort, Charlise McQueen and Ava Kelly

The atmosphere was electric at the QEO as crowds filled the hallowed ground to watch the power-packed 2019 BFNL Grand Final games. In the main events, Strathfieldsaye Storm held out a fast-finishing Eaglehawk to claim footy victory, with Sandhurst defeating Kangaroo Flat in the netball A-Grade final.

LIFE CHANGING LEARNING, FRIENDSHIPS AND OPPORTUNITIES

At Girton Grammar School, ensuring our students are happy and enjoy school life is at the heart of what we do. What strikes many visitors to Girton is the happy atmosphere throughout our School. We want all our pupils to look forward to coming to school, to relish the challenges on offer and to take advantage of the many opportunities and experiences Girton can provide.

At Girton, a positive, nurturing culture opens the minds of children of all ages from Prep to Year 12 to learning and success both emotionally and academically. With a commitment to addressing the needs of all students, Girton Grammar School teachers meet students at their individual learning level and work with them to bring out their best. Discover the opportunities a Girton education could provide for your child. To find out more, contact the Registrar on: 5441 3114, or email: registrar@girton.vic.edu.au

girton.vic.edu.au

Beautiful gifts l

Discover quality souvenirs made in Bendigo and the region. Indulge with artisan gifts and delicious treats to take home and savour your Bendigo experience. Can’t decide on a gift for that special person in your life? Come in and let us help you create a one of a kind, Uniquely Bendigo gift hamper. www.uniquelybendigo.com.au

Wonderland Living Arts Space exhibition

DECEMBER 7, 2019 - FEBRUARY 29, 2020

Exploring the intersection between art, serious play and pop culture. This exhibition appeals to all ages and introduces playfulness into the gallery space with an eclectic mix of works from artists and designers of the Bendigo region. The exhibition features eight iconic landmarks from our region from the Bendigo LEGO User Group, as well as hundreds of other items created by local jewellers, ceramicists, pop artists and embroiderers. Visitors will also be able to immerse themselves in green screen play.

Find us on

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.bendigoregion.com.au • #Explore Bendigo • Find us on

Matt of all trades Twinnie the Tinker lays down tools in Bendigo, helping inspire a new generation of tech-savvy, trade-loving teens. By Lauren Mitchell – Photograph by Leon Schoots Robot wrangler, blacksmith, tinker, gypsy; Matt Twin goes by many titles, including jack of all trades, master of none. “That seems a derogatory thing, but the full saying is actually, jack of all trades, master of none, better that than a master of one,” he says. Add to that list dyslexic, and Matt’s story becomes even more intriguing. By day, Matt wrangles the robots at the Bendigo Tech School. “There’s an awful lot of programming and manufacturing of robots, and fixing them when they misbehave,” he says. Out of hours, he restores, designs, fixes and makes stuff, under the moniker Twinnie the Tinker. “The tinkers traditionally were a group of travelling tinsmiths. They led a nomadic, gypsy lifestyle and they went around from door to door, house to house, offering to do things like sharpen knives

and scissors or fix cooking pots. And the tinkers picked up lots of random little skills. They were never qualified in what they did but they were the original jacks of all trades.” Prior to coming to Bendigo last year, Matt was on the road with Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, delivering tech programs to school students around the country. Whenever he travelled he carried a tool kit and spent his downtime tinking… or should that be tinkering? Most probably both. He started a YouTube channel to share his creations. He says he loved the lifestyle the job afforded him, but the Bendigo opportunity was too good to ignore. “I wasn’t really looking for a new job. I was reasonably happy where I was, but a couple of friends of mine were looking and one of them 29

sent me the job ad for this one and said, look, someone wrote you a job. And they did. It could have been written just for me, and I thought, that’s nice.” Matt says the list of skills required for his new role was long and broad, but he ticked all the boxes. He’s now stationed in the new Engineering building at La Trobe University. “One thing I loved about Questacon was the huge and varied skill set and knowledge there,” Matt says. “The great thing about working at La Trobe is it’s really similar. If I need an expert in robotics, that’s okay, I just go onto staff directory, find that person and give them a phone call. There’s always an expert at hand, which is really good for designing educational programs.” Matt says he wishes tech schools were available when he was at secondary college. “I hated school,” he says. “I was dreadful. I went through all my schooling years as an undiagnosed dyslexic, and having a hand disability as well meant my spelling was dreadful and my handwriting was dreadful. In the mid-90s if your spelling and handwriting was bad, you got put in the ‘dumb kid’ classes. So I went through school with this identity as the ‘dumb kid’.” Matt says it wasn’t until he’d been in the workforce for a while, and had tried a number of jobs, that he realised he loved learning, so maybe it was “time to give school another go”. He studied an Advance Diploma in Building Design before starting a teaching degree, thinking his range of technical expertise could translate into teaching metalwork, woodwork or electrical studies. “Just because you’re good with your hands doesn’t mean you’re not smart,” he says, adding he sees a lot of his younger self in the students who come through the tech school. “Particularly when the VCAL kids come through. I can see a lot of me in them. And I think, what if someone told them they were smart?”

Although Matt is now happily settled in Bendigo, he hasn’t lost his gypsy ways. He’s currently restoring a 1950s grey Ferguson tractor, and an ex Country Roads Authority caravan of the same era – which means he’ll soon be back touring the country in his downtime, albeit at 20km/h. The van will be kitted out with a workbench so he can demo what he makes as he goes. “I’ve fallen in love with Bendigo,” he says, “because of the opportunities and the history, and because it’s a town that makes stuff.” Matt says anything he dreams up, he can get help with the manufacturing here. “Bendigo has got all the suppliers a big city would have, without the travel time.” He’s also found an affinity with fellow makers across the region. “One of the first things I did when I got to Bendigo was have a bit of a look around and I found the Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum. I popped my head in for a look and they had a blacksmith’s forge there, sitting empty.” He found a craftsman at the Port of Echuca forge to show him some skills, filled in the blanks via YouTube, and now demonstrates this almost-lost trade on weekends at the museum. One of Matt’s latest acquisitions is a 100-year-old pedal-powered scroll saw, which he acquired after the Canberra Bike Museum closed down. Matt’s using it to make jigsaws from scrap plywood. It’s kept in the Maldon museum and also used for demos. “It’s really cool seeing kids – who have access to screens everywhere – do a jigsaw puzzle, because some have never seen a jigsaw before, and these are 10-year-old kids, and they get to see one formed before their eyes.”

GROW YOUR CAREER AT BENDIGO HEALTH James Davis is the Anaesthetic Nurse Unit Manager at Bendigo Health. James has been at Bendigo Health for four months and has welcomed the change for him and his young family. “My family and I decided to get out of the city and raise our child in a nice, laid-back environment. Bendigo felt like a happy medium being a regional city with a brand new hospital,” James says. “Having the new facilities and being part of a new department has given me the opportunity to challenge myself and grow. I love my job – the clinical side is something I am passionate about as well as the patient contact. Making an impact to the patient in a short amount of time is very important to me. “Work life balance now is so much better. I’m able to work and spend time with my family in a more flexible manner.”

www.bendigohealth.org.au/careers

Belinda Speight, Brittany Garner and Scarlet Lucken

Hugh Haddon, Oscar Blackmore and Milla Blackmore

Hugo, Greta, Paul ,Mae and Ava Byrne

Tim Ockenden, Ben Clarke and Joel Gray

Sam Coupland, Liam Harris and Cheynne Farrugia

Sophie and Jorja Bramley

‘STARS’ ALIGN AT BENDI-CON Fans of pop culture indulged in a colourful dose of toys, fashion, comics and more at Bendi-Con 2019. The famed event attracts visitors, many dressed in costumes of their favourite comic or film character, from across Australia. The market and artists’ alley proved popular, with plenty of collectables and fashion on show.

Louise Bickle, Harry Prodes and Stephen Prodes

Bronwyn Kidd

STYLE THROUGH THE AGES

Rosemary and Ray Dawson

Tina Chapman, Helen Dallas and Janice McKay

Melisa Milbourne, Rachel Burree, Rachelle Schwab and Megan Pullin

Each stunning piece helped visitors explore the timeless elements of style, with the two-month exhibition hosted at Living Arts Space.

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Admirers of the aesthetic were taken on a journey through the decades as they viewed fine couture, tailored millinery, handmade jewellery and acclaimed fashion portraits in the Homage to Style Exhibition.

wallflowers bloom Bendigo’s streetscapes are changing – and four young artists are proud to be adding a fresh new dynamic to its traditional façade. By Marina Williams - Photographer Leon Schoots Murals have long been part of Bendigo’s history, showcasing society even before gold was first unearthed from its landscapes. Over the years, slowly adding to the early etchings or carvings left on walls or ceilings have been commissioned paintings to decorate homes, public buildings, churches and other built structures. Collectively, they added to the city’s unique character, forming a rich tapestry of history to capture our cultural evolution through the years. More recently, four young artists – Alicia Huddy (Alicia Huddy Art), Reece Hendy (Nacho Station), Nathan Sims (Mr Dimples) and Chantal Lyons (Raven Alice) – have been continuing the tradition of painting a picture of society on public walls. Their creative mark is being placed on the city through commissioned murals, adding a colourful vibrancy, sometimes with a thought-provoking message, to a blank building wall or bland thoroughfare.

Each is employed as an artist; they also exhibit at galleries and take on commissioned work. They are excited to be helping shape Bendigo’s street art culture. “Bendigo is looking bright, colourful and inclusive,” says Alicia proudly. “The current art that continues to appear around the city helps people to feel connected to their environment. It’s allowing people to admire the architecture and interact with Bendigo’s urban environment in a whole new way.” Adds Nathan: “It is good to see. Melbourne’s street art scene is a big tourist attraction with thousands touring their lanes and sub-lanes. Bendigo is leading to this.” Their artwork, and that of others, is on display at Pennyweight Walk, Chancery Lane, myriad public underpasses of bridges and other sites that host community-led street art projects. Artwork from other street artists can be found at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Brewhouse Café and the corner of Mitchell and Myers streets. 37

The urban art is not random, and differs from graffiti, says Nathan, whose stencils and diminutive paste-ups are “mostly symbolic” of life. “Most of the works we have here are commissioned, which means it is a one-off that is static, but it would be good to have a wall that would evolve over time, as in Melbourne’s Hosier Lane, as street art does offer some colour,” he says. “Being a traditional town, in the past 10 years it is slowly becoming a lot more modern and contemporary. It is ahead of other regional towns and street art is one way that is helping that.” Chantal, who has three “psychedelic colourful shape works” visible in the city, says that while street art can create a positive experience for both residents and visitors, the sheer size of some pieces could be overwhelming for some people. “Everyone has an opinion about art, but probably more so when it is straight in your face as a street work. But nothing or no one will ever evolve if you stand still.” Having moved to the Adelaide Hills just over a year ago, the painter/ street artist can offer a different viewpoint on the artistic direction of the city. “While it is not Berlin or Melbourne in terms of scale, it is evolving and it is positive to see that it respects street art as a type of artform. It’s also good to remember that it has been art and creative-focused for years, so the street art just gives it another element and character, so when you pop around a corner you get different experiences. The public art can bring joy to many people who may not visit a traditional art gallery.” The approach has the seal of approval of the City of Greater Bendigo. Maree Tonkin, coordinator of the Creative Communities Team, says the city has been commissioning painted murals and paste-ups since 2009. “Bendigo’s street art culture is thriving, and it is fantastic to see the streetscape evolving with time and reflecting our growth as a modern city. We are actively engaging with artists to develop public art in a planned way. There is still respect for our heritage, but there is room for contemporary art practice, as well.”

Reece, through his local street art collective Nacho Station, liaises with Maree to coordinate and plan public art spaces. They also link the owners of buildings with potential artists. Last year, he managed the successful Project Underpass in collaboration with Bike Bendigo, an art venture that took 12 months to plan and implement. The project involved Chantal, Nathan, Reece and other artists painting artworks on the exposed concrete underbelly of city bridges, including at Williamson and Miller streets. “While we are not at the level of Melbourne, or some European or American cities, Bendigo is creating its own identity in this space,” says Reece, who also hosts street art walking tours with the support of Bendigo Tourism. “When artists look at buildings they see a big, open and blank canvas, which, understandably, is not what everyone sees. So it is good to see some interest from the owners of buildings to add an artwork to that blank wall and create a painted canvas. I think it can help make a city more vibrant and more liveable. I suppose, what we would like to see is more owners registering their building as a possible site for a public artwork so we can see more creativity from commissioned artists.” All artists agree that more wall space would help Bendigo’s street art culture continue to grow. “Art allows us to connect through human emotion and view the world from another point of view,” says Alicia. “Each time an artist creates art they expose their view of the world through feelings, memories, thoughts and creativity. I can’t help but be drawn to seeing the world from many different perspectives… local artists need more opportunities to unite and work together to make Bendigo artistically rich as a city.”

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Grayce Arlov, Amanda Torr and Jesse Arlov

Leila Bryant, Heather Beever and Dot Anderson

Linton Torr and Leanne Oberin

Milton Long and Judith Long

CURIOUS EXPLORE ARTISANS TRAIL Food, flowers, art and wine were on offer at the Mandurang Valley Artisans Trail.

Renee and Nathan Williams

Bendigomind ad_Layout 1 19/11/2019 5:07 PM Page 1

Bendigo on My

Mind

Rosie Gillies and Anne-Maree Hadkins

The weekend event was a relaxing way for the curious to stop at six locations to see the wares of local talent, which included steel and timber sculptures, handmade furniture and watercolour paintings.

Bendigo On My Mind is an edited collection of articles written for Bendigo Magazine over its first decade of publication.

Published as Bendigo Memories this is an amusing and nostalgic look at Bendigo in the middle of last century. 200 pages, A5 paperback, featuring author and illustrator Geoff Hockingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comical drawings and his motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe for her traditional Cornish Pasties. Also available GOLD! Off To The Diggings. In its third edition, published by New Chum Press. This enlarged and reformatted 320 page hardback book is presented in full colour throughout with hundreds of illustrations and historical photographs which retell the story of the Australian goldrush of the 1850s.

N E W C H U M PRESS Available from Dymocks Fountain Court Bendigo, Bendigo Tourist Information Centre or from the author at e:casbooks@bigpond.com

creating the hub

Designers, writers, photographers and artists are already eager to be part of the Bendigo Creative Industries Hub. But first, there’s much work to be done. By Lauren Mitchell Photograph by Leon Schoots The ground floor of the Morley Johnson building is an echo chamber. Sounds reverberate off hard surfaces; a timber floor, exposed brick walls, a pressed metal ceiling from a century past. But not for long. This empty space will soon be filled with all manner of ideas, opinions and creations, not to mention one of the city’s most fashion-forward refurbs. This will be the Bendigo Creative Industries Hub. There are architect’s plans to perfect, building works to come, programs to prepare and, most importantly, creative people to attract. Manager David Hughes is far from daunted by his growing to-do list and looming deadline of “early 2020”. “I’m really excited about the prospect of being able to create something from scratch, about starting with a blank canvas,” he says. “I’m excited about the opportunity to reactivate this space.” When David chats to Bendigo Magazine, he is just one month into his new role to see the long-awaited hub come to fruition. Managed by Melbourne-based ACMI with State Government funding from Creative Victoria, the hub will provide co-working space for small creative businesses, plus a year-round program of workshops and events. There will be a communal kitchen, meeting room, and project spaces for photography, filming and podcasting. ACMI is well-placed to oversee the project, as the museum has experience with its own co-working space and incubator program, ACMI X. 44

“It’s been a really interesting process, because we want to achieve quite a lot, but we’ve got a limited space,” David says. “I’m excited with the plans because I feel like we’ve got what we wanted. The whole process has been an interesting one and a really fun one.” Lucas Hodgens, of E+ Architecture, agrees. “It is fantastic that a client who is supporting creative industries has engaged a local architect to design the project, after all, we are a creative industry,” Lucas says. “Using locals brings a certain degree of inherent knowledge, that only a local can know.” Lucas remembers visiting the building

when it housed Toyworld, and the annual Lego exhibitions once shown upstairs during Easter festivals. “I understand this building has had, and will have in the future, many tenants and uses. We ourselves have previously worked on this building. Therefore, it’s important not to permanently alter the building for each design. “The space is amazing. We want to show this off, improve it where possible and manipulate it so it suits our client, but in a way that it can revert back to the original volume after we have gone.”

With that in mind, Lucas’ design will neatly slip into the space, leaving those original heritage features of bricks, timber and metal, exposed to shine. “Our fit-out is more akin to an insertion or installation, with the aim we can leave the building in an original state if we are to ever end the program.” Lucas says it’s another chance for E+ Architecture to contribute to Bendigo’s creative culture. “Being involved in the second gold rush in Bendigo – the rise of the arts – is very important to our office,” he says.

For David, that was also the motivation to move from his previous role with Be Bendigo, to this one. “It was an opportunity to be involved in the creative industries in Bendigo,” he says. Already designers, writers and photographers are expressing their interest in becoming tenants. David says fine artists, fashion designers and film makers are also welcome. “Anyone working in the creative field really,” he says. “We’d like a broad cross-section of people because the thing we want to see is, what happens when we get those people together and give them the opportunity to work

together on projects. “I’m looking forward to the opportunities that will come from having people in the space together, to identifying opportunities for people in the creative industries, and helping those opportunities come to life.” As guitarist for local cover band Iffy Pop, David knows first-hand the value of creative people collaborating. “Maybe we’ll play at the launch? Maybe someone in here can design us a new logo?” he suggests. Watch this space. Follow the Bendigo Creative Industries Hub Facebook page for updates. 45

Clive and Kaye McCann

Jen Lethlean, Jenni Greblo and Helen Bennett

Rob Grainger and Ken Craze

Leanne Ruge and Jo Bottrell

Rozlyn Effenberg, Di Robertson, Judyth Jones and Jasmine Vendargon

Wolfgang Effenberg and Tim Robertson

TIME TO SIP AT CINEMAS Many can attest to enjoying a glass of wine while watching a movie. On a beautiful spring night in October, Sandhurst Ridge Wines elevated the relaxing ritual with a tasting of their wines at a wine-themed movie night at Star Cinemas in Eaglehawk. Following the tastings, moviegoers took to the couch to watch a film with a glass of their favourite wine.

BSSC Alumni Staying in touch

Jess Graham – Class of 2016 Shared her university journey with Visual Art students

Reece Hendy – Class of 2007 Facilitated street art workshops with Visual Art students

At Bendigo Senior Secondary College we love welcoming back our Alumni to share their stories and inspire the next generation of school leavers to find their strengths and pursue their passions. Here are just four of the many Alumni who returned in 2019 to bring their skills and knowledge back to the college and help build a culture of aspiration among the current cohort of BSSC students. If you’re a former student of Bendigo High or BSSC, there are many ways you can still be involved in the life of the college; whether it’s taking part in college events, sharing your career and life experiences with students, or supporting them by sponsoring awards or scholarships.

Emma Lewis – Class of 2010 Shared her story of resilience and recovery

Scott Woodman – Class of 2014

You may simply want to stay up-to-date with what’s happening at the college, or network with other Alumni through our Facebook page and ‘Alumni News’ on the college website.

Guest speaker at 2019 Graduation Ceremony CON TAC T US

Bendigo Senior Secondary College Rosalind Park, Bendigo PO Box 545, Bendigo VIC 3552

Like to find out more? Drop us a line... alumni@bssc.edu.au

Phone 61 3 5443 1222 Fax 61 3 5441 4548 Email admin@bssc.edu.au Web www.bssc.edu.au

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

Bendigo Senior Secondary College

Empowering learners for individual, community and global leadership

www.bssc.edu.au

Andrew Pickles and Wolfgang Effenberg

Pat Hughes and Gerry Hughes

Courtney Conway and Dale Hynd

Philippa Spurling and Jo Taylor

DRINKS TRAM PROVES POPULAR A twilight tram ride through the city was a unique way to participate in Bendigoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heritage Uncorked.

Ron Harris and Fiona Stewart

Tracy McQualter and Tamar Pankhurst

Patrons got on board for the rollicking journey, sampling wines from regional winemakers while listening to the sounds of local musos.

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the fair to find

Discover the ‘lost trades’ that are finding a new generation of admirers, thanks to a fair showcasing traditional professions that have withstood the test of time and technology. By Raelee Tuckerman - Images supplied Elizabeth Woodroofe spends part of her life surrounded by straw. As a ‘corn dolly maker’, she takes sheaves of grain and carefully plaits, twists and weaves the stalks into decorations designed to bring good fortune to those around them. This ancient craft has a history steeped in harvest customs from past centuries and Elizabeth, from Gowar, enjoys ensuring the folklore behind her creations will not be forgotten. “Corn dollies were originally made from the last sheaf of grain to be harvested, as it was believed that the spirit of a good harvest retreated there,” she explains. “This spirit was then woven into a corn dolly and kept safe until the following year and could be burnt, planted or given to the best cow to eat. This way, a good harvest was secured. “There are versions all over the world, as encouraging a good harvest has been critical to civilisations globally. More recently, they have been associated with fertility and good luck and are hung as decorative items.” Despite their name, corn dollies can be made from different cereals (corn being a generic term for grain), and they are not even dolls (the name comes from the word ‘idol’). Elizabeth, who uses wheat for many of her pieces, says she has not

always been such a fan of these golden works of grain art. “I am a child of a corn dolly maker and I used to hate corn dollies,” she says. “I resented competing with a bundle of wheat for a soak in the bath and why did those prickly awns always cling on malignantly, only to reappear in my bath? “My mother did a lot to revive the craft in the UK during the 1960s and ‘70s and I learnt from watching and helping her. Little did I know this craft would later stand me in good stead.” Elizabeth is one of more than 100 traditional artisans who will practise their unique crafts for the public at the 2020 Lost Trades Fair, which will be held in Bendigo over the March long weekend after outgrowing its former home in Kyneton. Exhibitors hail from across Australia, the UK and US and include several from Central Victoria. There’s Bendigo fletcher (arrow maker) Andrew McGregor; Maldon fly fishing rod craftsmen David Anderson and Ken Bradbrook; bookbinder Simon Dart and silversmith Dan Cox, both from Bendigo. Castlemaine scythe maker Paul Ward, Spring Gully ropemakers Fenton and Robyn Phillips, Maryborough blacksmith Glenn Simpson and Kyneton chairmaker Glen Rundell will also display their unusual talents. 49

Glen, along with wife Lisa, founded the Lost Trades Fair to highlight and promote the rare trades and decorative arts usually carried out behind closed workshop doors and ensure these skills continue to flourish, despite the age of automation and high-tech tools. “The fair celebrates the art of skilled manual work, traditional trades, crafts, tools, languages and techniques passed down through generations,” says Lisa. “It offers visitors a chance to learn how things are made, to see, hear, touch and experience craftsmanship and meet and talk with the makers about the trades they practise.” She says visitors are fascinated to watch heritage-style items being handmade by a real person, rather than a modern machine. “From a sixth-generation cooper working alongside master stonemasons, luthiers (string instrument makers), hedge-layers, and makers of rocking horses, penny farthings, coaches and more, these master craftsmen and women want their trades to survive. “We want to promote artisans pursuing traditional trades as a career with authenticity and an integrity that validates what they do and acknowledges their dedication to preserving and passing on their skills and knowledge.” Since 2014, the Rundells have organised 10 Lost Trade Fairs in Victoria, Queensland and NSW, collectively attracting 100,000-plus patrons. More than 20,000 interested onlookers are expected to pass through the gates of this year’s Bendigo event alone. Glen is one of Australia’s most sought-after chairmakers, having trained in the US with two leading American Windsor chair craftsmen. No tables, sideboards, cabinets or other furniture for Glen – just chairs, settees, barstools and rockers, all beautifully handmade. He designs and creates bespoke pieces for clients, as well as teaching chairmaking, from his workshop in Kyneton, gaining huge satisfaction from passing his knowledge on to others.

Elizabeth is one of just a handful of Australians skilled in the art of corn dolly making. “As an adult when I came to Australia, I saw this beautiful Australian wheat but no corn dollies,” the secondary teacher says. “I began to produce some for friends and then, with three small children, I began to sell them at market stalls. “I love the fact it is something I learnt from my mother and that they are so unusual here.” She says she has gained as much from exhibiting at the Lost Trades Fair as those who come and appreciate seeing her work. “It has inspired me to keep going with this craft and hold more workshops to spread the knowledge,” she says. “Speaking to the many people who are interested in what I do has made me realise the value of being able to make these things. “My daughter always helps me at the fair stand and when I hear her repeat some of the stories I heard from my own mother, it makes me feel good that the tradition is carrying on.” The Lost Trades Fair is on at the Bendigo Racecourse from March 7-8. Visit the fair’s Facebook page or losttrades.info for more details. 50

Charlie McKenzie, Mason Flint, Tensae McLaren and Annabel Bradshaw

Chloe Doherty and Donna Coghlan

DESIGNS ON PROMOTING DIVERSITY Elsie Rodgers and Eve Ritchens

Sandra Cameron and Tanya Smith

Jessica Laville, Jess Eastman and Dee O-Connell

Sidney Niemann, Maree Tonkin, Stacey Maynard and Jill Niemann

For 13 years, the Bendigo Fashion Festival has been celebrating local designers and brands. This year’s event attracted yet another large crowd to Ulumbarra Theatre, where the fashion faithful saw the upcoming season’s ready-to-wear designs and collections. Inclusion in the fashion industry was a theme, with a diverse cast of models highlighting the need for accessibility in stores and adaptive clothing design.

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take a bow

The maestro leading Bendigo’s community orchestra into the next decade is a man with many strings to his musical bow… By Raelee Tuckerman - Photography by Leon Schoots A debilitating illness ended any dreams Luke Severn harboured as a child of becoming a professional dancer, but the ballet world’s loss has proven to be music’s gain. If not for a bout of glandular fever at 12, the accomplished cellist, composer and conductor – who has taken on the role of Bendigo Symphony Orchestra musical director – concedes he might never have picked up a string instrument at all. “I was doing 20-plus hours of ballet training a week when I got sick and didn’t have time to stop and I ended up developing chronic fatigue syndrome,” explains Luke, now 26. “I went from dancing all the time to basically not being able to stand up, so I took up cello lessons instead. I was only attending school part time, and it was the highlight of my week.” Why the cello? “There was a practical element – I could sit down when I played while I was recovering, but I was also attracted to the sound and I took a shine to it. I had to work hard at technique, but I was very self-motivated. I’d learnt that discipline from ballet.” Remarkably, just three years later Luke was accepted into the prestigious Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, where many of his classmates had been fine-tuning their skills from the age of three or four. It was around that time he began to “dabble” in writing his own music. “I’d sung with the Australian Children’s Choir and the year after the 2009 bushfires the choir commissioned me to write a piece in commemoration. That was the first time one of my own compositions was played in public and also when I realised I could make money doing it.” Luke studied a Bachelor of Music at Monash University under noted chamber musician Josephine Vains, graduating with first class honours after spending his semester breaks in London learning from renown Russian cellist Karine Georgian.

“BSO is a very high standard for a community ensemble and I’ve been overjoyed by the level of enthusiasm and love of music I have found here. It makes my job very easy and I’m enjoying transforming that love into what I hope will be scintillating performances.” Luke conducted two BSO projects in 2019 and plans an exciting program of four major concerts for 2020. Full details will be released in February, but suffice to say they include a reunion, a milestone birthday, a debut work and other classical collaborations.

He has performed as a soloist, in chamber ensembles and with orchestras across Australia and in Europe and North America, most recently during a Piano Trio tour of Canada with virtuosi Andrew Sords on violin and Cheryl Duvall on piano.

“Music is there to be shared – that’s what it’s for,” Luke enthuses. “It was the source of entertainment before television. People would gather around a piano and sing together, and while we have lost that tradition in one sense, music continues to permeate our lives.

Bendigo audiences are also benefiting from his immense talent and passion for performance, courtesy of his new position at BSO.

“While it may have changed stylistically, music is one artform where the essence of it and the experience of sharing and listening to it has been the same for hundreds of years.”

“I started at the beginning of July, on my birthday,” says Luke, who lives in Melbourne but travels to Bendigo every Tuesday for rehearsals, usually staying overnight. “It was the best present I could have asked for – to lead a new (established) orchestra. 52

Luke has many accomplishments on his musical CV to date, but one he is particularly proud of is his debut CD project Humanation, performed and recorded in collaboration with pianist friend Elyane

Laussade in the wake of Australia’s same-sex marriage plebiscite. “It was a very cathartic experience for me, as well as the queer members of the audience who came to see it in concert,” he says of the piano and cello works by five LGBT composers. “I was taken aback by how the national debate made me feel – being held up for people’s opinions. I thought I was cool with everything, but I was surprised to see all those opinions expressed publicly via social media. “The reception to our performance was overwhelmingly positive and lots of people close to me who are members of the LGBT community got to come and hear the works and we could see the effect it had on them, too. That made it really worthwhile.” Luke laughs when asked if he grew up in a musical family and is following in anyone’s footsteps by pursuing music as a profession. “My mum is a nurse, dad is an electronics engineer and my sister is studying paramedicine,” he grins. “I’m a Muggle-born! “But music careers are interesting, as they often happen without you even noticing. The best piece of advice I was ever given was, ‘don’t

make a career in music, make a life in music and the career will sort itself out’. “So far, that has proven to be very helpful… and very true.” This charismatic character thrives on the melodrama of conducting and says BSO members are slowly becoming accustomed to his somewhat quirky style. He describes his delight during a rehearsal when the group “went from sounding like a bunch of people reading through a Haydn concerto to a unified orchestra in just 10 minutes”. “I literally spun on the podium and they all laughed at me,” he chortles. “They probably wondered what they’d signed up for, who is this guy? But they genuinely made me excited and that’s the most fulfilling thing to bring to any ensemble. “If you give everything to music, it will give everything back to you. It might put you through the wringer, but it’s like an investment – if you pour love and dedication into it and allow it to make you the person you want to be, you end up being a very fulfilled individual.” 53

Felicity and Daniel Worthington

Janelle Bell, Scott Chalmer and Shannan Filbey

Tegan McDonald, Danielle, Hayley and Donna Markwell

Karen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Toole, Virginia Jones and Jane Crane

Kristy Kum Too, Shannon Martin, Pam Davies and Ann Whiting

Linda and Ian Jones and Kathy Fekete

WINE, FOOD CULTURE SUCCESS Each year the iconic moveable festival that is Heritage Uncorked showcases regional wines, local produce and grand gold-rush architecture with a walking tour of the city. The event is part of Bendigo Uncorked Week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an entire week of wine and food activities. On October 12, hundreds of people strolled between seven historic landmarks, stopping to sip, sample and chatter at each venue.

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Ellen Butters and Paul Vickery

Mali Roberts, Tanya Hynes and Simone and Scott Foster

Guy Thomas, Anthony White and Roy Reynolds

Sonia Scott and Leanne Williams

CONCERT TAKES FLIGHT A day of music brought families and friends to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park.

Stuart Wicks, Matthew Wicks and Tim Wicks

Wendy Robertson and Angela Purdy

Jon Stevens and Killing Heidi were the headline acts, but just as much cheer went up for local acts Fountaineer, Taylor Sheridan, Dez and Toli Wanefalea. The community event, On the Wing Festival, was organised by local sporting groups.

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with birds and bees Beck Hughes’ life takes flight in sunny Sedgwick, with friends and loved ones; feathered and faithful. By Lauren Mitchell – Photograph by Leon Schoots Beck Hughes’ place is positively humming, with busy little bodies in a frenzy over flowers. It’s high spring and in sunny Sedgwick the cape daisies make for a pretty, bee-covered carpet by the Emu Valley Channel. “Oh good, you’re wearing sensible shoes,” says Beck’s other half. He’s started worrying about snakes. The pair are going through all the learning curves of moving out of town to make a home where the services cease. Out here, there are gas bottles, a septic and a tank and pump system so complex it came with a map. “I was really proud of myself when I worked that out,” Beck says. When Bendigo Magazine visits, the couple have been living here just three months, proving it takes very little time to make a home. Already there are Lohmann Brown and Hy-Line chickens laying, and

several productive vegetable gardens, including a wicking bed in a landlocked canoe. These help provide Beck’s Bendigo café with daily produce. Beck is the owner of Café El Beso in View Street. For the past 15 years she’d lived in the one-bedroom apartment above, with a bird’s eye view over the best of Bendigo. So, what was it like to live in the city’s heart? “Of absolutely no use to me,” laughs Beck, who’s spent years longing for a place like this, close to her beloved horse, an Arabian grey named Seph. “I’d been looking for a place for years, and then I gave up about a year ago,” she says. “I actually knew the person who lived here. I drove past one day and just had this overwhelming feeling I should contact her. I got to the turn-off up the road, pulled over and

messaged her. I said, ‘how did you find this place, is it yours, or does someone else own it? If you’re renting, how did you find it, and sorry if this is weird’. “She messaged me back and said, ‘no, it’s not weird, but what is weird is that I’m moving out’.” Within the week Beck had moved in, with her partner and her menagerie of chooks, budgies and one very sweet hand-raised cockatiel called Geanie. The house is the former teachers’ quarters of the Sedgwick Primary School, which started life as Upper Emu Creek Primary in 1867 and continued on this site until 1990. By then, white ants had destroyed the original school house, so the six remaining students were learning in portables. Behind the house is a small shed and 58

outdoor dunny, and behind that a stone studio, built by a former owner. It has a timber-lined cathedral ceiling, wood heater and massive bay window overlooking the channel and trees, teeming with bird life; cockatoos, rosellas and boobook owls. “When I saw this I thought, this is enough, I don’t even need the house,” laughs Beck. It’s now her studio, providing space and inspiration to rediscover a love of making art – while Geanie stretches her wings under the soaring ceiling. A freshly finished pastel drawing of a bird, and a watercolour painting of a horse are en route to the Bendigo Show. “Every year I enter,” Beck says. “It makes me do something and helps me to be creative. It used to be for cooking and photography but, for whatever reason, I started altering what

I do. This year I decided to enter pastel, even though I’d never done it before, and watercolour, even though I hadn’t don’t that since 1996.” Her early works are truly lovely. Time and space to be creative is just one of this place’s gifts to Beck. It’s also given her the opportunity to make a home; one that reflects her values and warm mend-andmake-do aesthetic. It’s homely and eclectic, yet uncluttered, filled only with the essential nostalgic finds. “My landlords left a couple of things in the studio for me, such as the pew and the writing desk,” Beck says. “I dug some things out of my dad’s shed, including some big rugs I’d bought a while ago at the tip shop. I only had to buy a couch from the op shop.” Vintage prints and artworks of horses

pepper the walls. Faded rugs soften the footfall over worn timber boards. Fresh eggs, herbs and spices sit at the ready on the kitchen bench. Such lovely things, lovingly picked. A makeshift sunroom off the house is a cheery spot for the little birds, and for vegetable seedlings to sprout. By night the fairy lights looping the rafters make the whole space sparkle. Beck says her only regret is not making the move out of town earlier. “I can’t believe I was there for 15 years,” she says of her itty bitty bolthole above the shop. “That’s just nuts. My saving grace was, I would come out to Spring Road (in Sedgwick) every day for a couple of hours for the past eight years. But I was always really sad to have to leave.” 59

She’d come to ride and care for Seph, plus tend more vegetable plots and chickens, having established an impressive production line of eggs and veg for El Beso at this agisted space. (Home-grown produce makes up around 30 per cent of the café menu.) Among the chickens is Beck’s best girl, Amy, the Silkie-Sultan cross. She dropped out of the sky and into Beck’s life four years ago. Literally. She landed in the back yard of a bird-fearing friend, who knew just the woman to care for her. “She was half dead, with puncture wounds from the hawk,” Beck says, describing the dramatic fall from the predator’s clutches. “I kept her at home in my bedroom and I nursed her back to health. She likes car drives, she’s been everywhere with me. She will lay an egg in a bucket – if you gotta go, you gotta go. She goes clucky sometimes and I have to take her into work to watch TV. You’ve got to break the cycle, otherwise they sit on eggs for weeks and weeks and it can make them sick. I entered her into the Bendigo Show one year, but because she’s a crossbred she didn’t qualify. She also has her own Facebook page.” (See Amy, the little chicken that could.) Here’s another bit of local history for you; the old school site hosted the first Sunny Sedgwick Music Festival. The three-day event ran in the late 1990s and attracted some big-name indie Aussie bands, like John Butler Trio and The Waifs, alongside the locals. Beck remembers going when it moved to a paddock around the corner. She’s been finding the festival mementos, little clay Sunny Sedgwick medallions, while digging in the gardens. Beck thinks her story is a good lesson in listening to that gut feeling we all get from time to time. Does she usually take heed, like the day she stopped to ask about this place? “Yeah. I don’t go against it, but sometimes it has to be pretty loud for me to hear it,” she says, as the bees hum and the clock ticks and the camomile tea slowly cools.

home is where the welcome is

Within hours of arriving in Bendigo, Michelle Stares instinctively knew she was ‘home’, finding a welcome and enveloping community spirit from everyone she met. Photograph by Leon Schoots “It really is a change from Sydney,” says the new CEO of St John of God Bendigo Hospital of the city in which she previously lived and worked for decades. “Our neighbours and colleagues are so friendly – I have been blown away by their hospitality; even complete strangers say ‘hello’. I’ve had such a nice welcome to the city and to the hospital.” Michelle and partner Stuart, an estimator with a construction company, are not wasting time in giving something back to their “neighbourly” home town. They have been busy exploring the region, having already visited some smaller towns for lunch and myriad farmers markets. Closer to home, they have “donned the hard hats” to tour the Central Deborah Gold Mine, joined the Bendigo Art Gallery and chilled out at the Blues & Roots Festival. “We love that there is always something to do here and cannot wait to get around and see more. We are busy ticking off our bucket list, and we especially want to get out to more country towns and support them. There is so much choice and it is all right on our doorstep,” she says.

With her son, 23, enjoying his own independence, the time was right to pack up their three remaining dependants – Uzi (a pug), Ollie the Springer Spaniel and Neyo the Chihuahua – and live somewhere new. “My son named two of them after rappers,” she laughs. “We were living semi-rural, but we still had a minimum 80-minute drive to get into work and longer to get home. We had heard so many good things about Bendigo, the people, the lifestyle; so we are now letting the wind take us where the next journey is going to be and here we are.” With more time to relax, a hobby is on the cards, but top priority is exploring the region. “While I love to do watercolour paintings, we are enjoying having that quality time together to explore places, even the dog parks – our fur babies are loving them.” Michelle brings more than 20 years’ experience in the healthcare industry, including both management and clinical care. She has held two general manager roles at Healthscope hospitals and was general manager at Sydney South West

Private Hospital. She is proud to be CEO of a hospital that has been integral to its community for more than 50 years. “It’s nice to be in a hospital that really cares and invests in the community. This is what getting into healthcare is about,” she says, adding that programs such as Raphael Services and Horizon House also provide “incredible and rewarding” social support to the community. “I could immediately see that the people who are involved here are invested here. I am particularly overwhelmed by the number of volunteers we have – 200. Some will be soon receiving their 50-year award for service, and the majority of them have been here between 10 and 20 years. “You can tell that the community holds this hospital to such high regard through the length of time they have all been working here and their personal commitment, not within their rostered or paid hours, the number of out-of-hours that they do, all of them are incredible. It’s a beautiful hospital and a wonderful place to be.”

ENJOY MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT THIS SUMMER!

2020 DEC / JAN / FEB / 2019-

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parents. Maternal health is universal, meaning your credit card limit or annual income does not determine the quality of your healthcare. The dedication, knowledge and care of nurses, doctors, specialists and support staff at Bendigo Health has been wonderful. I look forward to every scan. I’m always eager to know that everything is all right and the pregnancy is going well. I often remind myself that women have been birthing babies forever and things have improved a lot over time. Admittedly, you do try to prepare yourself for ‘worst case scenarios’, particularly in the early stages. I can’t begin to imagine the heartbreak couples go through when they’re told “there’s no heartbeat” at any stage of their pregnancy. In Australia, about six babies are stillborn every day and in 40 percent of those cases the cause of death is unknown. There’s been little improvement in overall stillbirth rates for over 20 years; it’s something that needs more investment.

new chapter for federal member As I’m writing this article, there are just a few weeks to go until our first baby’s due date is here. For my partner Matt and me, it’s a new chapter in our lives and like many new parents we are excited but also nervous. By Lisa Chesters Photograph by AJ Taylor We’ve received some great advice from friends and family. Whilst sometimes contradictory, it’s great to hear all sides and make your own mind up about how to prepare. People’s willingness to share experiences of pregnancy and birth has been comforting over the past few months. Going by their stories, it’s fair to say that every pregnancy is different. So far, I’ve been quite lucky having had very little morning sickness or severe pregnancy symptoms. My biggest battle has probably been the nerves. I worry about whether or not the baby is moving enough, if I’m getting enough sleep, if my ankles should be as swollen, or even if I’m peeing too much. My anxieties are always calmed down by the outstanding team at Bendigo Health. Each time I’ve visited Bendigo Health’s maternity ward I’ve reflected on how lucky our community is to have such amazing services in the heart of Bendigo. Our new public hospital is a blessing for expectant

There are other challenges that come with pregnancy. Being cautious about what I eat has been hard. I love my cheese, particularly soft goat cheese, but I’ve found that our local restaurants and cafés are increasingly understanding and accommodating. Giving up alcohol was a lot easier than I thought. Before my pregnancy was confirmed I was off the booze. My body seemed to cut out any desire to have a glass of wine. Like many women, I’ve developed a superhero sense of smell. I can suddenly smell the cat food in the laundry when I’m in the kitchen. I assume that happens because the body is trying to avoid food poisoning. I do have a confession; the birth and early parenting class freaked me out. Once you start talking birthing plans, pain medication options and touring the birthing suites the reality sets in. Matt was far more relaxed than I was. The number of dads-to-be attending appointments and classes is increasing and should be encouraged. Having a baby isn’t just a woman’s job and I’d like to see things become easier for men to be involved. Naturally, mums-to-be have to negotiate around work and other children or caring responsibilities to attend appointments. It’s much harder for partners to do the same with current leave entitlements, however workplace culture is changing and becoming more flexible, allowing both parents to be more present. Matt has been a model dad-to-be and not just with assembling baby furniture. He’s been making breakfast each morning, cleaning the kittylitter tray without being asked and taking me for walks, which has been particularly helpful in the third trimester when the motivation is just not there. It’s the little things; just having a partner there to ask “how are you both doing today?” makes a difference. He’s also great at doing the research on what we’ll need to be prepared. That first trip to Baby Bunting needed a battle plan. There’s so much to consider. You can pick the first-timers almost instantly; wandering from one section of the store to the next asking “do we really need all of this?” It’s a whole new world. I’ve also received such overwhelming support from the local community; the generosity of the people of Bendigo is beautiful. Thank you for the well wishes, baby gifts and cards. Although unexpected, it’s much appreciated. Matt and I look forward to meeting our little one and raising her in this fantastic community. Whilst I’m the first Federal Member for Bendigo to have a baby, I’m not the first Member of Parliament to do so. Having a young family when you’re a Member of Parliament is more common these days and I feel very fortunate to have many colleagues to turn to for advice. When on maternity leave, my office will continue to operate as normal. My team will be able to assist with any Federal Government matter like Medicare, immigration and Centrelink. 65

Anne-Marie Holden, Katie Brown and Sue Kelly

Bron McQueen, Jane Forsberg and Kathryn Hinton

Ashlea Howard and Emma Pontelandolfo

Helen Kavanagh, Sandy Crothers and Kirsten Rabbitt

Karen Griffin, Sandra Kelly, Janelle Wilson and Pam Nicolson

Yasmin Colley and Alison Clarke

FUNDRAISER POPS WITH PINK For years a group of Bendigo women have been holding events to raise vital funds for medical research to help beat breast cancer. In October, they hosted Girls Night In 2019 with attendees embracing the theme ‘Fifty Shades of Pink’. As the champagne flowed, guests mingled and kept the donations flowing with raffles, door prizes and a silent auction.

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CELEBRATING A LOVE OF LIFE Kate Hardinge, Wendy Lovell and Renae Westley

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chasing time

Combining study with raising a young family is not for the faint-hearted – but La Trobe University education graduate Natalie Gould is proof that the rewards are worth it. By Kate O’Connor - Photograph by OMG Imagery Time is precious, as any student will tell you – especially when assignments are due and exams are looming. But throw four young children into the mix, including a set of twins, and it becomes like a long-forgotten friend. “The hardest part is everyone around you can go home and smash out an assignment, or stay at the library from four until eight, and still go home and get a decent night’s sleep. “Whereas I would do school pick-up, and then creche pick-up and then go home and do after-hours activities, tea time and bed time… so it was nine o’clock before I could sit down to do any study. “I tried to utilise the time I had at uni outside of classes as best I could. I’d spend an hour or two in the library between classes. I guess that’s something I had to learn to do very quickly.” When Natalie left a career in finance to start a Bachelor of Education at La Trobe, she was 28 and had a 15-month-old son, Zac. By the 68

time she completed it nine years later, she had another three – Samuel (now eight), and Thomas and Zavier (now four). While life was already busy, the surprise of having twins almost brought the degree to a screeching halt. “Our lives were turned upside down when we had the twins. Even when I was pregnant, I couldn’t really do anything in the last few weeks, I needed help with everything.

that I needed to get an extension for an assignment, because I had so much going on at home. I got everything done eventually, but sometimes I needed an extra week or two.” Natalie says the university also made allowances for her when she found out about the twins. “You’re actually meant to finish your degree in eight and a half years, but La Trobe were fantastic and let me complete in nine.”

“I’m lucky because I had amazing support – my mother and my mother-in-law both live in Bendigo. But it was overwhelming at times, and there were times when I thought, ‘how can I possibly finish this?’”

Now working as a casual relief teacher at Kennington Primary School, Natalie says her time in the classroom, coupled with parenting four boys, sparked a passion for student welfare.

Natalie says she also had a lot of support from her lecturers.

“When I get into a class and there’s a student not listening or concentrating or having some sort of undesired behaviour, the first thing I do is sit down with them and find out what’s going on for them.

“They just feel like they’re your equal partners in achieving your goals. So if I had sick kids, they’d sympathise with me, and tell me ‘we know what it’s like – what do you need?’ “There were many times over the nine years

“It probably partly comes from having children. I have a son who struggles with self-

confidence. And there’s so many students I come across who remind me of him. “I’m passionate about building up my students’ self-worth and making them feel safe and good about themselves. That’s the basis for learning; having their basic needs met before learning can take place.” Natalie says while some of the health and wellbeing subjects she took as part of the course helped, it’s something she feels runs deeper than that. “I feel strongly that there is a much better chance of connecting with students when my mindset is ‘I’m not seeing the behaviour; I’m seeing what’s going on for them behind that behaviour’. “As a relief teacher it’s a little tricky but, if I can, I’ll sit down with them instead of sending them out of the room, or sending them to a corner, or taking something away from them. “I’ll sit down with them and say ‘What’s happening for you? Are you feeling a bit yuck today for some reason?’ Or I’ll ask them, ‘Do you want to just have a drink, or take five minutes to draw?’. “And, generally, they respond to that. The learning and the teaching comes easily if you’ve got students that feel like they’re being listened to and understood, and had their basic needs met first.” Once her children are older, Natalie is keen to have her own class. “I’m loving relief teaching, but eventually I want to be in a classroom to see the progression of

the kids that I’m teaching. But for now, what I’m doing really suits us as a family. It might be a couple of years before I apply for a job in a classroom.” Natalie says, despite the long road to complete her degree, she has no regrets. “I worked so hard; I had to miss dinners with friends, I’d spend hours in the library and working late at night. And it did affect the way I parented, because assignments are always on your mind. “But I feel like I’m sitting in a really good position now because I did work so hard. I’m having a really good year. I’ve settled back into parenting and I’m loving my job.” She also feels teaching was the right career choice. “As I started studying, I really felt like I was in the right place. I love all that foundation stuff. I love sitting with kids, and tutoring kids, and teaching them ideas and concepts. “And now as someone who has completed a degree, I can say it’s worth it. When you have the qualification and can go out and earn great money and make a difference in that profession, and use those skills – it’s a really good feeling. “Nine years is a really long time, but I’m so glad that I did it. So happy to be out teaching and I’m so proud of myself. I would do it again, because of the incredible feeling that I had after completing.”

Photograph by AJ Taylor Images

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singing her own song A love of music and sense of adventure has taken this BSSC alumna to some amazing places. By John Holton From her bush block in Uruguay, Rosalind Park and the ‘Old School on the Hill’ seem a world away for musician, teacher – and now owner-builder – Janelle Hopman. But the ties of family, friends and musical heritage ensure this Bendigo Senior Secondary College alumna continues to have a close bond with her home town. It was through her passion for music and her involvement with the 70

Bendigo Youth Choir that Janelle first experienced the joy of overseas travel, and the thirst for adventure has never left her. “I was just 11 when I first took off to sing at a festival in Western Samoa,” she says. “My mum still says that was when I caught the bug for solo travel.

“I threw myself into music and it’s taken me to some amazing places.” The first of those places – after graduating from BSSC – was Melbourne University, where Janelle won a scholarship to study abroad in Italy. She sang opera, learned Italian, overindulged on wine and pizza, and immersed herself in Italian life. “My lasting memory is of music drifting through an open window,” she says. “Fiddles improvising – an ancient piano being worked through its paces – a woman on a street corner impressing the crowd with her soaring coloratura. I started looking outside the formal boundaries of classical music and towards other styles.” It was a couple of years later, backpacking across South America as a 25-year-old, a tiny keyboard strapped to her back, that Janelle happened upon an eclectic bunch of musicians – Cubans, Ecuadorians and Argentinians – who invited her to join their band. “They took me under their collective wing, taught me how to speak Spanish, dance Salsa and interpret Latin Jazz,” she says. “It’s a style I really connect with and one of the reasons I was so eager to continue my Spanish studies once I returned to Australia.” Janelle studied Spanish Language at Melbourne University, did all her placements at schools that taught Spanish, and ended up teaching in the International Baccalaureate (IB) at Carey Grammar for five years. She no longer teaches in a formal setting, but still assesses IB Spanish students from all around the world. “I look back now at my Bendigo years and think, ‘wow, if I hadn’t been a singer and a musician, I never would have stayed in Ecuador – I never would have learnt Spanish’,” she says. “I would have missed out on so much.” Six years ago, another sliding door opened and she met her partner, Fernando. They now live in his native Uruguay, a few kilometres from the beach, across the Rio de La Plata from Buenos Aires. They are in the process of building a mud bag house, ironically on a bush block covered in eucalypts – a sensory reminder of Janelle’s childhood home in Emu Creek. They are also in the process of starting a coffee roasting business. Their first batch of green beans from Colombia has just arrived and they’re looking forward to hitting the road and sharing a great cup of coffee with the locals. “I remember arriving at the airport and being taken in a rickety wooden bus to the beautiful village of Faleasi’u. The food, the new friends, the beaches, music as part of daily life, the geckos climbing up the walls – I loved it all.” Janelle can’t remember a time when she didn’t sing. Her formal music training began as a six-year-old in the living room of the iconic Bendigo piano teacher, Leila Watson, surrounded by her antiques, books and porcelain pianos. “Leila would sit beside me with her beautiful white hair immaculately coiled into a bun,” Janelle remembers. “She’d often be knitting, or whacking a long stick against the stool to keep time. That room was the catalyst for my further studies, travel and a love of Debussy.” By the time Janelle enrolled at BSSC in 2001, she knew music was a non-negotiable. It was never about ‘a career’ – music was simply the thing that made her happy. “I loved the BSSC music department in the old courthouse,” she says. “It was a real community of like-minded people. We were treated as adults and were responsible for our own learning.

“We chose the name ‘Forajida’ for the business,” Janelle says. “It’s the feminine form of ‘outlaw’ – a person who pushes back against societal norms. It feels like a good fit for our business.” In her ‘spare time’, Janelle is still sharing her love of singing, performing Latin Jazz and running a choir at a local government school. Once a week, 65 very eager students squeeze into a tiny classroom to practise. “They’re an amazing group of kids who constantly surprise me with their dedication to learning something they are totally unfamiliar with,” she says. “The project is working well and there may be scope for developing a more official program in other schools in the area.” Despite being on the other side of the world and juggling so many projects, Bendigo is never far from Janelle’s mind. “We’ve imagined a concept where we arrange exchanges between Uruguay and Australia – Bendigo even – where baristas who want to learn Spanish could come and run courses here for Uruguayans eager to learn more about coffee, and Uruguayans could spend time in Australia, teaching Spanish to coffee industry professionals. It would be a great way to share resources and knowledge across the two countries.” 71

Alisha Kent and Deb Sea

Brenda Murley, Betty Byrne, Heather Plowman and Beverley Ferguson

Bronnwynne Gangell, Jenny McGrath and Annie Tarr

Joclyn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shea and Donna Robinson

Kylie Ermel and Hayley Stockdale

Madisen Filbey, Denise Hill and Amanda Cunningham

NIGHT IN RAISES FUNDS A common goal among many to raise funds for the Bendigo Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Centre and the Cancer Council of Australia sparked a Girls Night In at All Seasons Conservatory. Entertainment included live auctions, music, a photo booth and raffles, with the crowd raising $25,000 for the cancer cause.

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CHEERS TO 50 YEARS Emmanuel Evangelakos and Oliver Kellie

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Hannah Ryan, Hannah Knipe and Grace Millar

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Balgownie Estate is 50 years young. Bendigo’s oldest working winery celebrated in style, hosting a festival day on vineyard lawns. For some, it was the ideal day to chill out on a picnic rug with some food and wine in hand to listen to the music. Of course, it wouldn’t have been a celebration without a visit to the cellar door.

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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plenty of fun

The popular Summer in the Parks program returns to entertain and delight crowds in the great outdoors. By Marina Williams As the sun rises to welcome a new season, it can only mean more fun outdoors with Greater Bendigoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s massive Summer in the Parks program. Think three months of dance classes, swimming, cinemas under the stars and plenty of concerts, just for starters. With a vibrant mix of entertainment, coordinated with input from community groups and organisations, the popular program has been a summer staple for thousands of residents and visitors for the past 15 years. Last year, more than 20,000 people attended 120-plus events, with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer in the Parks again set to feature historical walking tours of the city, comeand-try sports and fitness activities, music nights, markets and fireworks to celebrate and welcome the New Year. 74

Keeping events free or low-cost ensures as many people as possible can access myriad activities, says Dawn Holland from City of Greater Bendigo’s Tourism and Major Events. “It’s about people spending time together and being entertained without having to spend a lot of money. It’s a perfect opportunity for families and friends to enjoy the great outdoors and make the most of our beautiful city and region,” Dawn says. “The program is very diverse and there is sure to be something that will appeal to everyone.” The program kicked off on November 29 with the ever-popular lighting up of the Christmas Tree in Rosalind Park. The festive spirit continues into December with Community Christmas Carols spreading out to six regional sites – Axedale Park, Barrack Reserve Heathcote, Canterbury Gardens, The Garden for the Future, as well as Rosalind Park. Post the festive season, the emphasis is on relaxation throughout January with outdoor cinema entertainment and Australia Day celebrations that will include free entry to outdoor pools. The outdoor cinema sessions will be held at Elmore, Redesdale, Lockwood South, Axedale and Heathcote. February is described as ‘getting your groove on’ with live music in parks each Friday evening, along with other fun and interesting events. “Throughout the program, the emphasis remains on togetherness and community,” says Dawn, with council staff and dozens of community groups and organisations involved in its planning and delivery. “It’s a real community effort, which is why it has grown significantly over the years to include a wider variety of groups. Each year we encourage previous participants to continue and we always welcome new ones.” Celebrating community spirit is what attracted Fosterville Gold Mine to sponsor this year’s program, says general manager Ion Hann. With more than 85 percent of the organisation’s employees residing in Greater Bendigo, the program provides Victoria’s largest gold producer a welcome opportunity to give something back to the region. “We are surrounded by and operate amongst small communities and this program is all about bringing communities together, so it fits perfectly with our own social values,” Ion says. “We are very excited to be associated with the program…providing access to free or low-cost community events ensures inclusiveness and provides social opportunities for families, friends and newcomers to our region.” Adds Dawn: “Promoting healthy living and active lifestyle, as well as inclusivity, is a great opportunity for people to try an activity and participate in outdoor events in a fun and friendly atmosphere.” Review the Summer in the Parks program at www.bendigosummerintheparks.com or follow the fun at www.facebook.com/ BendigoSummerInThe Parks 75

SILKS EVENTS & FUNCTIONS

phone 03 5448 4209 | email j.rawiller@bendigo.countryracing.com.au

hair today, gone tomorrow! A snip here, a clip there; after decades of devout grooming our columnist find the Presley-esque coif is back, while he’s feeling a little bereft up top. Words and illustrations by Geoff Hocking I always thought I had a good head of hair, but recently my wife alerted me to a fact that should have been obvious, but which I had refused to acknowledge for quite some time, when she observed that my hairline had now receded past level with my ears – that is, when looking from the side. This brings me to my theme: HAIR. It must have been Elvis Presley who made a big impression on me when I first saw the film Jailhouse Rock on Easter Monday 1957. I had slipped into the cinema straight after the dragon had passed me by as I waited outside the Plaza for the doors to open.

Elvis had such a full head of hair, and it fell in a most alluring way across his forehead as he strutted and swayed his way across the screen, most unlike the short-backand-sides that my father insisted was still the follicular style of the younger person in the post-war period. After ‘Jailhouse’ I was going to have no more of that. The next time my father carried his barbering stool up the back yard and opened the green Winning Post chocolate box in which he kept his silver clippers, I refused to be snipped. Apart from the fact that the clippers tore recalcitrant follicles from the scalp rather than snip them, it

was the now unfashionable style to which I objected. I was determined to have locks like Elvis and my father would have to put up with it. This declaration did not go down at all well. The next thing, father and son were rolling around on the lawn, fists aimed at one another while we discussed the imminent change of style. My father didn’t strike me, but I think I landed a few, and that was that. He never cut my hair again. Just a couple of years later, and thank the Lord for the arrival of The Fab Four. Apart from the pure joy in their new kind of music, 77

their clean and infectious boyhood charm, their cheeky grins and witty behaviour endeared themselves to young people and parents alike. No longer were we styling ourselves after a dangerous, rocking, curled-lipped ‘rebel without any cause’, it was fun to be a fan of the biggest band of the 20th century. My hair was swept forward and soon fell into my eyes. I had joined the ‘Beat Generation’. My father was left unimpressed. I remember being forced to go and have a haircut, so I took myself into a barbershop, that I think was up in what was once the Commonwealth Bank Arcade. Here were two barbers: one older fellow who had been practised in the short-back-andsides, basin-cut school of hairdressing (the barber), the other was a younger fellow who cut modern styles (who we shall refer to as a hairdresser). I sat there waiting, reading my way through a pile of tired Australian Post magazines – which for me was novelty as mother would not allow such ribald publishing in the home. The ‘Post’ usually had bikini-clad lasses of the cover and featured yarns about bushrangers and blokes and broads, and had pages on rather naughty cartoons of the very soft-porn British Seaside postcard style. By the time it was my turn to face the

mirror, just as I sat myself in the chair and explained to the nice young hairdresser that I really didn’t want anything cut off at all, my father burst through the obscure glass doors and demanded that I be given a good going over with the scissors. I think I fled in embarrassment. It was often quite a brave thing to do to affect a lengthy male coiffure in the late ‘60s. I recall being shadowed by an officer of the law as I made my way down Pall Mall heading for the art school at the old School of Mines. He made some rather demeaning observations of my person, offering opinions on my proclivities, all because he thought I looked a bit girly. He was not amused when I responded to his accusations with some observations of my own, but then again, I have never believed that you should have to put up with what anyone with any assumed authority chooses to dish out and have every right to respond in like manner. A uniform does not automatically earn respect. And I guess this is the problem with long-haired people. Hair is grown as an expression of personality. This is the reason the armed forces shave heads, as one of the first things new recruits must endure. Everyone must at first lose their identity so they can be moulded into an obedient whole.

Remember the eponymous rock musical that was once considered so seditious it could not be allowed in Victorian theatres; we saw it in sinful Sydney on our honeymoon 46 years ago. Hair, then, ushered in ‘The Age of Aquarius’ and before long we harmonised with David Crosby who, at Woodstock, lamented that “He almost cut my (his) hair”. What a lot of fuss has been made about something that grows naturally all over us and when it starts to go, all of its own accord, grown men take to plastering long strands across their bald bits to make it look as if they are still young, hirsute and virile. As I sat in my favourite hairdresser’s chair the other day, I looked around at the posters she had displayed on the wall. The photographs showed images of young men with carefully clipped ‘trendy’ styles – mostly short-back-and-sides, but with well groomed Presley-esque coifs, boofed up, and falling languorously across their foreheads. I just asked for “not much off thanks. Certainly none off the top — it can’t be spared. Just a tidy up around the back, and clip my wings a bit”. Which is what my father was trying to do all those years ago. Clip! Clip! Clip!

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Bendigo was buzzing as thousands of people turned out for a celebration of music at the four-day Blues & Roots Festival.

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A highlight was the all-day family concert in picturesque Rosalind Park that also had patrons filling venues along View Street. More than 140 music acts were on this year’s program.

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PUNTERS BEACHY-KEEN TRACKSIDE When the days start warming up, it can only mean party time. For many, this involves a day trackside for the Bendigo Jockey Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Beach Party Race Day. Fine fashion was swapped out for bright Hawaiian shirts and sundresses, with sombrero hats and colourful sunnies the chosen accessories. As punters partied on the manicured lawns, the horses kept an eye on the finish line.

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For more than 150 years, the Bendigo Agricultural Show has been celebrating the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s livestock industry while entertaining visitors with a mix of carnival rides, fireworks and myriad art and craft displays A circus, motocross show and ute competition gave an added dose of magic to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-day event.

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Lucy and Brayden Having fun with family and friends, while enjoying good food, music and dance, made Lucy and Brayden’s wedding something special Photography by Breanna Gravener Tell us about the wedding proposal... “Brayden proposed last year on Bendigo Cup Day, which was actually Halloween as well,” Lucy says. “We took a day trip to Port Campbell with our puppies, Frankie and Chase, to visit the Twelve Apostles, but it turns out that you can’t take dogs to many of the viewing sites. So we were carrying them around, found a nice view point and then put them back on the ground. As we did, Brayden also got down on one knee and popped the question.” Lucy and Brayden met through mutual friends and, as it turned out, went to the same high school and lived around the corner from each other. They’ve been together for 12 years. “It wasn’t until the wedding planning that we actually realised we had 82

been telling everyone that we’d been together for 10… we’ve been pretty inseparable since meeting.” The couple married on November 16 at MacKenzie Quarters, a revitalised old school hall in central Bendigo. Lucy, her friends and her mum “got ready” at the adjacent accommodation, The Residence. “We were the first couple to have our wedding there post the amazing renovations… it was beautifully presented and a unique venue with so much character and charm.” Venue owner Rhianwen says she was thrilled to host the couple’s wedding. “We felt so honoured that they chose and put their trust in us to deliver a truly special and unique wedding day, especially as we were still in the renovating stages. They were such a lovely couple to deal with.”

The pair proudly went local when choosing their attire for the day. Lucy’s dress was from Belles & Bows. “The ladies were so helpful in understanding my style,” she says. “It was relaxing to try dresses on in my own size, and the dress I ended up purchasing was the third one I tried on – it had pockets, so I was sold.” Brayden purchased his suit from Grant Rule Men’s Wear. Lucy’s engagement and wedding rings were from Michael Hill. “Brayden doesn’t wear jewellery so his ring had to be something he would actually wear. It was designed and made by Windfall jewellery and it turned out exactly how he wanted it, which was awesome.” Jorja from Three Sisters Beauty did makeup and Leanne from Jacs Salon styled hair. Jac the Hitcher presided over the ceremony; Lauren Dillon Designs created their stationery and signage. Vine & The Farmer prepared the grazing table and Two Sisters Catering the cocktail service. Blue Willow Cakes made the wedding cake, and guests took home cookies from Casey’s Cakes. The Knots and DJ Slymewave kept everyone dancing, and Breanna Gravener was the photographer. Lucy says the ceremony was the highlight of their day. “Hearing the answers to the questionnaires in a hilariously loving way, we shared our promises and vows with the support of all of our loved ones. The hall was filled with love and laughter – and a few tears, but not from us. Jac nailed it. Then we celebrated with a confetti-throw, which was also so much fun.” Travelling up the New South Wales coast for their honeymoon, the couple say their day was just as they had hoped and planned for. “I think everything about our day was unique to us – we wanted it to feel like a big party, a celebration of our love, and I think we did pretty well with the help of everyone involved,” Lucy says. Their advice to other couples is to “make it your own”. “Work out what you want to be significant on the day and explain that to your vendors. The rest will, hopefully, fall into place. And just have fun!” 83

COLOUR IGNITES RACE DAY

Emily Robertson, Will Holt and Claudia Powell

Jessica Climas, Jayden Rice and Ros Fazulla

Louise Reidy, Claire McMillan and Johanna Sabaliauskas

Melinda Cassidy and Wendy Robertson

Rhys Smith, Jordan Shelton and Josh Newlan

Sam Reaper, Cath Moorhead and Jacqui Blandford

The sun was out and so was the colour at the Jayco Bendigo Cup. As the fashionable crowd ate, drank and chatted on the beautiful spring day, horses and jockeys kept up an equally fine pace on the track. For the main event, all eyes were on the finish line to watch Top of the Range take home this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cup honours.

110 Hargreaves Street Bendigo Victoria 3550 Phone (03) 5442 2997

Breakfast all day. Lunch from Noon - 2.30pm Saturday and Sunday 8am - 3pm Closed public holidays.

Callan Macague, Hugh Macague and Rachel Johnson

Gemma Sinclair, Chelsea Sinclair and Brodie Murray

ELMORE CELEBRATES AGRICULTURE Lynette, Inday, Reno and Letisha Mountjoy

Neave Dullard, Aiden Dullard, Cherie Walker, Zander Walker, Bronwyn Vine and Jedd Dullard

Montana Freeman, Brendon Johnson, Jack Febey and Annabelle Jeffery

Regan, Ruby and Zali Cullen

From humble beginnings in 1964, the Elmore Field Days has gained recognition as one of Australia’s premier agricultural events. With the primary focus on farming, ag tech and manufacturing innovation, there was still something for everyone, with camel rides, music, art shows and shearing and wool handling demonstrations.

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)

dairy queen By Beau Cook - Photography by David Field

Does the thought of making ice cream leave you cold? Try a semifreddo instead, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just as refreshing, is easy to make and has the texture of frozen mousse.

Method: 1. Place eggs, extra yolks, sugar and vanilla in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water on low heat. Using an electric mixer, beat for 8 minutes or until thick and luscious and warm to touch. Set aside to cool slightly. Note: The water level should be below the bowl. Do not let the bowl get too hot as this will scramble the eggs. Ingredients: • 3 eggs SEMIFREDDO

• 2 egg yolks, extra

Makes 2L Basically an easy homemade ice cream that requires no churning. Instead of honeycomb and chocolate, you could add whatever you like – fresh berries, fruit puree, rum-soaked raisins and nuts all work well. Be creative!

• 1 cup caster sugar • 2 tsp vanilla bean extract, or the seeds from 2 vanilla beans • 600ml cream • 3 x 50g chocolate honeycomb bars, crushed, to serve

2. In a large bowl whisk cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold through egg mix in two batches until well combined, then gently fold through two of the crushed bars. Note: Do not stir or whisk vigorously as this will knock the air out of the mix. You want to keep it light and fluffy. 3. Transfer semifreddo mixture to an airtight container and top with remaining crushed bar. Freeze for 4-6 hours or until set. 87

FUN DAY OUT FOR FAMILIES

Annie Murphy, Ornella Biasi and Becca Harrison

Isabella, Chris and Eva Dow

Jessica, Atticus and Todd Anderson-Kunert

Max, Melissa, Zoe, Nigel and Jake Anderson

Poppy Cornelius and Zoe Cuthbertson

Sopheak, Eric and Soena Ngin

There was something for everyone as children and families headed to Hargreaves Mall for the epic FunLoong Fun Day. There were lots of smiles as kids enjoyed watching the stage shows, playing slot cars, and visiting the animal farm and LEGO play station. Some even had their face painted!

Audrey, Mark and Arthur Woodroffe and Carolyn Bartholomeusz

Compton, Bec and Maeve Broadbent

LIGHTS, MUSIC AND DANCE Hobie and Olive Husted

Stephen and Lacey Henderson and Melissa O’Donovan

Jason Tavener and Lisa Gormley

Peter and Oscar Cole

Set to a thumping hiphop soundtrack, some of Australia’s finest physical, visual and musical artists put on a heart-stopping show on and around the iconic poppet head in Rosalind Park. The Encounter: Live at the Poppet Head show featured acrobatics, circus acts and included performances from Chunky Move and Tasdance.

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toast to twenty nineteen Get in quick to secure a memorable local wine list for your Christmas table, including a first for Bendigo. By Ashley Raeburn

MANDURANG VALLEY, ‘OLD VINE’, 2017

SANDHURST RIDGE, SPARKLING NEBBIOLO, 2017

GLENWILLOW, SPARKLING SHIRAZ, 2017

The ‘Old Vine’ continues its rich tradition to be the flagship wine for Bendigo’s Mandurang Valley Wines.

Brand new, stunning addition to the Sandhurst Ridge family!

The name Glenwillow WInes has become synonymous with the Bendigo region due to its well-deserved success throughout national and international wine award shows. Family owned and operated, you can see the Italian heritage shining though vigneron Peter Fyffe’s blood with his love and attention to the traditional Italian varietals Nebbiolo and Barbera through to the classics of Shiraz and Cabernet.

Family owned (now stretching into the third generation) and operated since the mid-1970s, the Vine family has generally used the most prized fruit from their oldest Shiraz and Cabernet vines to produce this highly regarded wine. However, this year, the addition of Malbec has provided even more wonderful depth and structure to this delectable wine, showing the harmony these three varietals can bring to the table. Deep, rich red fruit aromas of summer-ripened plums come to the fore initially, with attractive hints of blackcurrant wafting through the background. The characteristics definitely continue to open up with time in the glass, with the persistent yet juicy flavours of plums, blueberries, a hint of chocolate and faint herbal notes all working seamlessly together. With plenty of depth, lasting tannins and a rich, yet elegant finish, the ‘Old Vine’ makes the perfect Christmas gift for the wine lover or just a ripper of a bottle to enjoy with friends and family. Thinking food? Rosemary-crusted rack of lamb with dauphinoise potato with minted beans and peas, or beef wellington with a pepper mustard sauce.

Sandhurst Ridge has established itself as one of Bendigo’s premier wineries, becoming known for handcrafted and distinctively local wines including Shiraz and Cabernet, and some lesser-known varietals such as Nebbiolo, reflecting its Italian heritage. Here they have used that particular grape to create what I believe to be the first sparkling Nebbiolo from the Bendigo wine region. And what an addition it is! From the beautifully perfumed nose of violets and blueberries finding the way to your nose, to the persistently fine bead forever climbing from the bottom of the glass, this wine will definitely be a winner at all levels. Delicate flavours of bright red cherries and a medley of forest berries entwine with supple earthy tannins, providing a distinct savoury note to the wine. Creamy, textural and a long-lasting finish help deliver a most complete and complex sparkling red wine that will sit impeccably next to the roast turkey on Christmas Day. With a limited supply run, I’d recommend getting your hands on some as soon as you can!

With the vineyard lovingly cared for by Peter, this Sparkling Shiraz has been produced by esteemed winemaker Adam Marks. It’s easy to see why it was the recent winner of the Most Popular Sparkling Wine and in the Top 5 Wines at Bendigo’s Heritage Uncorked. Deep, rich purple colour in the glass, it delivers delicious aromas of redcurrant and fruit-driven spice. Well-structured and with a persistent fine bead, the palate provides concentrated rich red fruit flavours along with hints of chocolate and white pepper. Subtly moreish with a lengthy finish, it will be a crowd-pleaser at any end-ofyear gathering. A delicious pairing with roast duck with Chinese five spice.

Brian and Coral Kinross

Stuart, Iris, Rudy,t Ziggy and Jo Laing

Janet Filbey, Helen Byrne and Shirley Lock

Jessica Georgeson, Emily Moule and Mariah Tayba

Jon Crust, Lee Savage, Jason Watts and Cameron Egan

Lara Scandolera and Caeleb Johnson

BENDIGO COMMEMORATES REMEMBRANCE DAY Hundreds of locals gathered at the Bendigo Soldiers Memorial to pay their respects on Remembrance Day. For many, it was a chance to honour those who fought in past conflicts and to remember lives lost at war. The day acknowledges the moment hostilities ceased on the Western Front in World War I – at 11am on November 11, 1918.

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32 Pall Mall, Bendigo | 5441 8566

www.bunja.com.au |

Andrea Smith and Heath Penbrook

Chris Austin and Dave Austin

Greg and Susan Yeo

Katrina Turner, Paul Byrne and Nicole Tucker

NEW HOME The owners of Cavalier Homes Bendigo toasted the opening of their new display home in Maiden Gully with a VIP night.

Pauline Meade and Shiree Meade

Shane Meade and Grant Penno

In attendance were more than 40 people from local trades, suppliers, developers, brokers and real estate agents, who were the first to take a tour of the impressive home.

AWARD WINNING WINES “Our wines reflect the regional character of our vineyard - that is, full bodied red wines with elegant and complex flavours and a lingering palate.” - PETER & CHERRYL FYFFE

WINE SALES

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www.glenwillow.com.au

Catherine and Evan High school sweethearts Catherine and Evan kept family at the fore for their wedding at Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral. Photography by Ildiko Photography Tell us about the wedding proposal… “I worked the morning shift on the 10th of June, 2018 (I’m a nurse) and I’d had the worst shift,” Catherine says. “I can’t actually remember why it was so bad but it was horrible and later that night I was sitting on the couch watching TV when Evan walked in with his hands behind his back. And here I am like, ‘what are you doing?’ He handed the ring box to me. And as I opened it, he got down on one knee and told me that we’d been together for six years and that he 94

was hoping I’d now be his wife. I definitely cried. Evan usually likes to keep his thoughts close to himself, so the proposal was quite cute.” Evan and Catherine met in secondary school at Catholic College Bendigo – they were both in the class of 2013. “We knew of each other since year seven, but didn’t properly talk until year 10,” Catherine says. “Evan was sitting by himself in maths and I was up the back with a couple of friends. I felt

bad that he didn’t have anyone sitting next to him so I sat down and introduced myself and then I started hanging out with him and his friends, some of whom were my friends as well, and the rest is history. We got together half way through year 11.” Fast forward six years and the young couple were saying “I do” at the Sacred Heart Cathedral on April 27 this year. It was a place close to both their hearts. “It’s where my parents were married. It’s where I was baptised.

My nana’s, pa’s and mum’s funerals were all held there. And all our school masses and our graduation were held there when Evan and I were at high school.” Catherine’s mum passed away from ovarian cancer in early 2018. “I had photos of my mum and nana on their wedding days on my bouquet so I could have them with me on my day,” Catherine says. Their reception was held at the All Seasons Hotel’s Fernery Room. Catherine’s dress was from Bendigo Bridal Collection and Evan’s suit from Peter Anthony Menswear. Eternal Vase provided the flowers, Prudey’s Jewellers the rings, Custom Cakes and Cupcakes made the cake, while Boudoir Hair and Beauty did makeup and hair. Soul Contact provided the music – with Evan’s mum in the band – and Oz Limos the car. Ildiko Photography captured the day. Catherine says a highlight for her was Evan’s speech. “He made sure to mention my mum and had everyone crying, including himself.” Their first dance was also special, to Something by the Beatles. “Every time I hear that song I think back to the wedding and how amazing it was.” “Have the wedding you want to have,” Catherine says. “Not the one that your family or friends want you to have. The most important people on your wedding day are yourself and your husband/wife to be, so do things that will make the both of you happy. And, most importantly, have fun.”

Andrew Hogan, Scott Butler and Tom Lynch

Sarah Angove and Lia Marrone

Dani Howden, Kim Whelan, Samantha Forbes Smith, Stephanie Bowen and Michael Casey

Kathryn Evans and Ayrton Creagh

Mary Fitzgerald and Rebecca Butler

Travis Deane and Michael Ramsey

FESTIVE IN HEATHCOTE Each year, a crowd gathers at the Heathcote Agricultural Showgrounds in celebration of the region’s local produce. And more than 40 artisan producers were just as happy to showcase their wares for the annual Food and Wine Festival. There was something for everyone, with tutored wine tastings, live music and activities for the younger ones.

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’

Ben Simpson and Rob Porter

Dale Pierce, Laura Sing and Tegan Christian

FESTIVAL JUST FOR LAUGHS Ellen Butters and Sarah Crutch

Mike Elliott, Kelvin Niblett and Adam Crossley

Jim Hallawell and Brooke Lee

Vanessa, Fergus, and Rose Hutchinson and Alex Gourley

Everyone loves a laugh but for the real lovers of comedy, it was all happening at the Cambrian Hotel on October 9 for the launch of the Bendigo Comedy Festival. The opening night gala featured local acts with Melbourne comedians Geraldine Hickey and Dilruk Jayasinha bringing their sense of fun from the city by the bay.

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Abbey and Warrick The unpredictable spring weather was no dampener for this gorgeous, rustic-styled wedding at Sutton Grange Winery. Photography by Justin & Jim Tell us about the wedding proposal... “Warrick took me and our mini dachshund, Willow, to Trentham Falls,” Abbey says. “We had lunch at Woodend and it was a very casual day. He told me we were going to the falls to test out our new camera. Before I knew it, the GoPro was set up and I turned around to see Warrick down on one knee. It was a total surprise. He had even had the ring made for me.” A series of surprise encounters had brought the couple together over the years. They first met as students in Bendigo, and after briefly dating, decided to go their own ways. Abbey moved to Mildura, and Warrick to Wagga Wagga. But it seems fate had other plans for them. “Fast forward three years and after multiple chance meetings in Melbourne, we finally 98

decided we wanted to give it another go,” Abbey says. “We had been dating for six years prior to getting hitched.” Their big day took place during the September school holidays this year. (Abbey is a teacher.) Sutton Grange Winery provided a relaxed atmosphere for the spring wedding, by celebrant Sue Begg. Abbey’s dress was from Luv Bridal and the suits from Joe Black menswear. Blackbird Cakes in Woodend baked the centrepiece; Oak and Holly did the flowers; Elegance Hair and Beauty took care of the hair and Abbey’s cousin Lana Watson the makeup and tanning. Another cousin from The Hidden Nook made the bonbonnieres. Local lads Justin and Jim took the photos and Grant Fleming was the videographer. Musician Luke Owens played during the ceremony and Baker Boys during the reception.

Details aside, for Abbey and Warrick the highlight was “being around all our family and friends, seeing everyone having a good time, being able to marry our best friend and just having an all-round great day. “Celebrating with all our loved ones, some who we don’t get to see very often, will be our lasting memory. The speeches were also a highlight – they filled the room with many laughs.” After honeymooning in Port Douglas the couple have settled into life as husband and wife, while they concentrate on their next project; renovating their home. Their advice to other couples planning a wedding is to lock in those suppliers early. “And take it easy, everything falls into place,” Abbey says. “Just enjoy planning the wedding as a couple.”

Evolution Pools is an owner-operated business so you will deal with our team from concept right through to completion. We are a small team dedicated to your entire pool project. We will keep your pool clean, healthy and safe all year round for your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enjoyment.

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Simone and Luke's native home

Building a stunning home within an expansive native garden is giving a young family the chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. By Marina Williams - Photographer Leon Schoots

After years living in Melbourne, Simone and Luke were craving space. They knew moving to Bendigo would give them a home and garden that would not only suit their busy lifestyle but also cope with the day-to-day antics of their three young children.

process was quick. They gave Fiona Brockhoff Design a detailed brief and then approached Simon Rosa Landscaping to implement the plan. With some tweaking, the landscape slowly evolved as the overall house-and-garden project progressed across 12 months.

“We wanted the garden to be low maintenance but also have a lot of lawn space for the kids to play and, when they are older, to kick a football or play cricket out on the lawn,” says Simone.

“One major addition we made to the original plan was Simon designed a natural kids’ space, with swings, a sandpit and stepping logs for them to play on. This has been a huge hit. Incorporating a sizeable vegetable garden was also important to Luke.”

“Our number one priority was for it to be the focal point, and not the house. We really wanted a mostly native garden and to work within the existing landscape.” The couple had ambitions plans. Their garden would be developed parallel to the build of their new home on a 3.5-acre site in a semi-rural setting in Junortoun, and would span two acres. But they knew what they wanted and the design 102

Plants were selectively chosen, with low-maintenance natives and a hardy drought-tolerant lawn from Coolabah Turf, acknowledging Bendigo’s hot summers and cool winters. A number of eucalypts line the driveway and complement a large gum tree that was already growing on the property. Mulch is a mix of organic material and river-

bed washed pebbles, with stepping stones of slate on some paths. Offering a splendour of colour are woody Japanese maples and oak trees with their distinctive-shaped leaves. Together with native grasses, kangaroo paws and Xanthorrhoea grass trees, they make striking features in the deep garden beds that envelope the home. “They will work well all year round,” says landscaper Simon. “The age and architecture of the grass trees and the tall flower has really hit the mark in the native garden. These are highlighted by the feature garden lighting, natural stone walls and gravel areas, in particular.” Strategically placed stacked stone walls are something the couple “absolutely love”, as are the sweeping lawns and the walkway of aged railway sleepers that leads to the home’s front door.

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The house equally considers the landscape. Metcalfe local Jerry Wolveridge from Wolveridge Architects led the design phase, with Dan Bahen and his team from BLR Provincial Construction taking on the build. “While we started with a blank canvas on a large, flat site, it did have terrific views out to the west. So the plan was to create a home with outlooks but still have some privacy. It also had to cope with local environmental and weather conditions that can be extreme, while ensuring the family could still make the most of being indoors and outside,” says Jerry. The house features a series of “wings” that define areas for the kids, parents, garage and guests, with each connecting to the central living area. Large, black steel-framed windows capture views of the garden; the central family room leads to a large paved courtyard; and a towering brick chimney vents a wood-fired pizza oven. “We wanted it to look like an old homestead chimney,” Simone says. Vertically hung timber is used extensively on the home’s exterior, as well as for fencing and the pool decking. It was chosen because it will naturally weather and silver off over time. “As the landscape grows and develops, the home will merge into it,” Jerry says. Seeing their family grow and enjoy their newly completed and spacious home and garden is something Simone and Luke are looking forward to. “We absolutely love the garden and can’t wait to see it evolve over time. In years to come, we want it to be like an oasis, providing cool shelter during summer and attracting birdlife, which it has already started to do,” Simone says. “Moving from Melbourne, the kids are absolutely loving the extra space and their dedicated play space. Luke and I love being able to relax in our lounge and look out any window and see nature – it’s a nice change from city living.” 105

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cyclists ride for safety Two years after the tragic death of champion cyclist Jason Lowndes, a young cycling squad proudly carries his name and a valuable message for all road users – keep your eyes wide open. Jason’s family is riding with them. By Marina Williams - Photographer Leon Schoots Amid the whirr of wheels and the click of a gear change is a hum of chatter and laughter. The mood of the young cyclists is upbeat, yet they are focused as they navigate city streets that are quickly filling with myriad road users on a crisp spring morning. It’s a familiar scene that can be seen in any city around the world.

In the months after Jason’s death, a close-knit group rallied to collectively campaign about the need for continual road education and safety, embedding a grass roots road safety education program within the cycling squad based at Bendigo South East College, the school Jason had attended.

But this group of young riders has added purpose. As the ADP Giant Jason Lowndes Cycling Squad, they are not only competing in a sport that they love but also spreading a safety message to all road users: keep your ‘eyes wide open’.

At times, members of the Lowndes family ride with what they, and others, affectionately call the ‘JL Squad’. They take solace in seeing young people pursuing a sport that Jason was equally as passionate about.

The squad bears the name of the late champion cyclist Jason Lowndes, who died after a car struck him from behind while cycling at Mandurang in December 2017. Jason was 23 and an emerging sprinter on the international cycling tour.

“We are very proud and honoured that people have come together to develop such a great concept. It is a nice tribute to Jason,” says his mum, Trudie. “Jason was a proud student of BSE, he loved going to school to be with his mates. The JL Squad will open pathways that, when he and Chris were attending the school, were unavailable to country riders.”

Fallout from the accident caused a ripple of sadness and anger through the global cycling community, as friends, family and colleagues mourned their loss. But there was also hope, as many wanted something positive to come from the tragedy.

She says having young people lead the way in campaigning for road safety sends a powerful message to communities. 107

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“As young people are the leaders of tomorrow, it is important that they see the world and have their say. ‘Eyes wide open’ is a message that we would like to share with them, to carry forward into their future endeavours. It aims to promote awareness of shared space for all road users. The message is universal – everyone is responsible and nothing outside of that moment is important enough to put lives at risk.” The idea to have students promoting cycling and road safety came from Jason’s best mate, fellow pro-cyclist and BSE College alumnus Chris Hamilton, who is patron of the squad. After discussing his plan with the Lowndes family, Chris reached out to global bike manufacturer Giant, which had sponsored Jason, and to former competitive cyclist Rik McCaig, a teacher and cycling coach within the school’s Athlete Development Program. Both saw merits in the program, especially that it would reflect many of their friend’s values. Giant provides the squad with its cycling gear and bicycles, while Rik ensures members adhere to a rigorous training program that also focuses on road safety and an understanding of road rules. Squad bikes are fitted with flashing red tail lights and team jerseys are predominantly white to ensure riders are more visible on roads. Jason’s sister Meaghan designed the ‘eyes wide open’ message that is emblazoned across the back of each jersey in the shape of his sunglasses. As a cycling family, road safety has always been important, says Trudie. They will continue to campaign for a national mandatory cyclist overtaking distance of 1.5m, and for all bicycles to be fitted with a flashing red tail light. “Sharing legacies is a great way of increasing road awareness,” she says. “We hope that through the JL Squad and ADP BSE program, students will learn life skills of commitment, respect, resilience and road safety awareness and take their passion for cycling to the highest level and live their dream. Although Jason’s career was short, he achieved in a very short time, huge results on the bike, which proves that with commitment all students within the squad can do the same. It is possible.” The significance of the squad is not lost on team members, says

Rik. “They are all aware of Jason’s riding prowess and his infectious personality. We believe it is important to remember Jason so that we can be reminded that tragedies do occur. That we also need to look after ourselves and others around us. That we cannot take things for granted and expect that we are safe.” While some cyclists hope to emulate Jason’s achievements, they understand they are ambassadors for a wider cause. “The squad was made for Jason,” says Jamie. “We want to show to everyone that all road users need to stay aware and to always obey the road rules.” Adds Toby: “Our goal is to raise awareness that there are all types of road users and we all have a part to play in keeping roads safe – we want to help stop road accidents.” Involvement in the junior cycling squad is a first for Giant, having previously only sponsored global and national sport institutes, athletes and teams. It has pledged ongoing support. “We see this as a great opportunity to help give students the opportunity to take up cycling as their preferred sport. It’s a program that we could see rolled out nationally... we’re in it for the long haul,” says Darren Rutherford, general manager of Giant Bicycle Co. The squad is performing consistently in road and track competitions and has produced two state road champions, who have both represented Victoria at national titles. Trudie says the family is excited to see the students develop their skills and achieve personal growth, and perhaps continue on to the international stage like Jason. “Jason loved his cycling and it took him to many countries around the world, meeting new and interesting people. He was constantly packing his bag and facing many challenges along the way. This was all part of him growing up and learning how he fit in the world, with an exciting future ahead of him. “It’s excellent that the JL Squad is developing these young cyclists professionally, including life skills such as respect, teamwork and resilience. We hope to see it continue for future generations coming through the school. It would be brilliant to see students continue to build on what they have learnt through the JL Squad, and one day see them competing on the international stage.” 109

routine moves

Aerobics is more than just a fitness fad for gym junkies – it’s a bona fide branch of elite gymnastics and it’s taking one Bendigo teen on a sporting journey around the globe… By Raelee Tuckerman - Photography by Leon Schoots What in the world is a wenson? As Ruby Conti explains, it’s just one small element in a complicated series of movements that make up her high-energy competition aerobics routine.

“Even then, people thought there was potential there. But it probably wasn’t until she made Gymnastics Australia’s international squad that she realised what she could possibly achieve.”

Picture Ruby performing a push-up, balanced on one leg with her other leg stretched forward in full splits, resting on her shoulder. It sounds slightly mind-boggling – because it is.

As part of the national development squad, Ruby went to the US in 2017 and 2018 for the Association of National Aerobic Championships and won gold medals both years.

“It’s part of my most difficult skill,” says the 13-year-old rising star, who has represented Australia in international aerobic gymnastics events in North America, Asia and Europe.

She stepped up a level in 2019, earning Australian selection for World Cup events in Japan and Bulgaria and aims to make the team for the 2020 world championships in Azerbaijan in May.

“I jump up in the air, do a half turn, split my legs and catch (land) it in a push-up. Then I form an A-frame with my body in the air and finish in a wenson.”

“I really love travelling and meeting new people and I love the environment of the competitions,” says Ruby, who competes individually in the 12-14 years age category.

This is not aerobics ’80-style, when Jane Fonda’s fluoro outfits and fancy footwork brought the exercise-to-music craze to the masses.

It hasn’t always been easy. A recent bout of glandular fever put her out of action for two months and threatened to derail her plans of competing at the national club titles.

“I’ve seen some videos,” laughs Ruby, “and what I do is very different.” The sport today is governed by the International Gymnastics Federation and involves athletes performing short but dynamic routines to showcase agility, flexibility, strength and endurance. “It is offered to kids at lower levels to get them moving and develop their coordination,” says Ruby’s mum, Belinda Vernon. “But once you hit those higher levels, it takes many hours a week to have the body strength to do what they do. They have to be so precise because the judges sit there deducting points for any little thing that is out of whack.”

“I knew if I didn’t get well, I wouldn’t be going to Bulgaria either,” Ruby recalls. Belinda takes up the story: “The Sunday before nationals in Queensland, she had to go in and prove to her coach that she could get through her routine – and obviously she did. “Her coach told her there were no expectations, she was still recovering so don’t push things and just use it as a bit of practice for Bulgaria. But Ruby doesn’t really understand ‘don’t push it’ and she went on to win with her highest score yet!” Ruby is surrounded by plenty of experience to guide her.

Ruby trains up to 20 hours a week, travelling to Advantage Gym Sports in Port Melbourne every Wednesday and Friday after school, on Saturdays and often Sundays too, as well as sessions at Palmers Gym in Bendigo. She also practises pilates for her core strength and takes ballet lessons to improve her body extension.

Her coach is New Zealand aerobics legend Angela McMillan, who previously worked with Vietnam’s national team, and her choreographer is Brazilian former world champion Paulo Santos, who lives in Japan but comes to Australia regularly and treats Ruby “like a daughter”.

She started at the age of six, coached by her aunt Sally Moore, and it wasn’t long before she began turning heads.

Then there’s her childhood heroes, Annabel Muttdon and Olivia Feaver, who are now her clubmates; mentor and training partner.

“In the beginning, Sally taught her a routine in about three weeks and put her in a competition and she won the tiny mini’s section,” says Belinda, who has supported Ruby every step of the way, along with husband Nigel.

“Ruby had a signed poster of Annabel on her bedroom wall for many years,” says Belinda. “And when she first went into the international stream, Olivia put some makeup on her and she didn’t want to wash her face afterwards because Olivia had touched it.

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“Little things like that make us stop and laugh when we think how far she’s come.” Ruby knows exactly what she needs to work on to become more competitive against the powerhouse nations in her sport, particularly the Europeans. “My head and my heart,” she says. “Sometimes I look at other competitors, like the girls from Russia, because they are so good and a little bit intimidating. Ange always says I have to believe in myself, have more confidence and really have my heart in the game.” Belinda and Nigel joke that Ruby’s achievements give them a good excuse to take overseas holidays, coinciding with her competition schedule. The downside is that, as a non-Olympic sport, there’s little financial support on offer so the trips are self-funded. But it’s worthwhile. “What she is doing through these teenage years is such a healthy pastime – she eats well and looks after her body,” says Nigel. “Everyone who surrounds her is so positive and they are very good role models for her.” A year seven student at Girton Grammar, Ruby sets a good example in sporting commitment for other youngsters, including those in her school’s successful aerobics co-curricular program – several Girton students have won state and national AeroSchools medals in recent years. Despite her busy schedule, Ruby still finds time to be an ordinary teenager and enjoys dancing, playing violin and just relaxing with friends. Even then, says her mum, “she’s usually on the trampoline with them, or hanging upside down, walking on hands, making up crazy routines together…”

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