Coast Magazine Autumn 2011 by Coast Media Pty Ltd

A magazine for living, relaxing & enjoying life by the coast coast 1

Seagrove is Phillip Island’s premier environmentally-sensitive estate – superbly located in Cowes just 700m from a sandy, safe swimming beach and walking distance from shops, restaurants and cafes. Master-planned by award-winning designers, Seagrove features over eight acres of landscaped parks, wetland habitat, underground services, including gas and broadband, rich birdlife and regionally signiﬁcant eucalypt woodland. Select from a range of premium home sites - up to 800m 2 plus - including lots with bay views. Titles are available now so you can start building your dream home straight away

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;sets a new benchmark for sustainable

residential developmentâ&#x20AC;?

2007 Urban Development Institute of Australia Awards for Excellence

Freecall 1800 61 61 06

www.seagrove.com.au coast 3

Shear possibility. Located on Settlement Road, Cowes, Shearwater on the Island is only minutes from the beach, the centre of Cowes and is surrounded by the world-class attractions and natural splendour that make Phillip Island famous. With land now selling Shearwater on the Island is the perfect environment to make your home. For more information or an immediate on-site tour, call 1300 SHEARWATER (1300 743 279) or visit www.shearwaterestate.com.au

113a Thompson Avenue, Cowes, VIC

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Water Sensitive Urban Design Award Winner 2009

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Modern steakhouse restaurant • Cellar door • Sample 100 whiskies and beers Private dining • Functions • Conferences • Weddings 81 Archies Creek Road, Archies Creek. For bookings or enquiries: 03 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au coast 6

Archies on the Creek is proud to be joining the prestigious few fine dining establishments to be awarded the Australian Good Food Guide’s “Chef’s Hat”. Our city sharp, country friendly service continues on, as does our magnificent & affordable menu. What are you waiting for? Make your reservation now!

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At the time of going to print, I also appreciate how safe and lucky we are as we are faced with many disasters and challenges in our world where humans & animals are suffering - our heart goes out to them. In this edition, we share the stories of many others who have chosen to live the dream such as film photographer Carolyn Johns, who has now settled in South Gippsland, and Gypsy Love, who has taken to life on the road in her incredible Kombi. We meet artist Vladimir Sobolev who hails from Moscow, and talk to TV star Angus McLaren about a life of fame after growing up in Krowera. There are also inspiring stories of courage at the Men’s Shed, and those making a difference in their own backyards through living simply like Kate and Karl in Cape Woolamai.

PS. The story titled “Designs for an award-winning lifestyle,” in our last edition was actually written by the lovely Kate Bindley – must have got muddled in the rush of the summer edition. Sincere apologies to Kate!

The Coast Team

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As summer finishes, many of you reluctantly have to head back to your ‘real lives’ and lucky old me gets to stay. I was reflecting the other day on childhood summers and how I never wanted our beach holidays to end. Years later, I can honestly say that living on the coast actually is like living a dream, and those of us who can wangle it are truly lucky.

Sally x

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Whoosh! Summer just passed me by. A whirl of heat haze, festivals, sunshine and fun. Autumn now settles in with a steady hand – stable weather, gorgeous sunsets and a little more breathing space.

Our art and culture feature reflects the spirit and creativity of our coast. So sit back, make a cuppa and revel in the peace, tranquility and beauty of this coast of ours…

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from the editor

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Maria Reed Sally O’Neill Anne Roussac-Hoyne Sue Webster, Sally O’Neill, Katie Cincotta Warren Reed Warren Reed, Christina Prochazka Coast Photography 0414 753 739 Ryan Thomas, Maria Reed Nigel Quirk For all advertising enquiries 0432 273 107 or ads@coastmagazine.net

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Phillip Island to the Prom Coast Magazine © published by Coast Media P/L. ISSN 1833-3648. The publisher is not responsible or liable for any omissions or human error in Phillip Island to the Prom Coast Magazine. Material in this publication cannot be published or reproduced without the publishers written consent. All material contained in this publication is protected by Australian Copyright regulations. All rights reserved.

Open Lunch & Dinner 115 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922 (03) 59 522 655 Phillip Island, Vic, Australia www.infused.com.au Infused_v1.indd 1

5/03/11 10:11 PM

Flooring and blinds

155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes Ph. 03-5952 1488 Fax. 03-5952 1348 Furniture and beds

22-24 The Concourse, Cowes, Phillip Island 3922 www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

contemporary home solutions

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7/03/11 2:24 AM

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contents &features

regulars 12

Coast life

Arts & events guide

2 (coast) people

15 minutes of fame

103

What’s new (& 126)

Bruce & Cheryle Matthew

Jimmy McGovern

Feature areas

131

Around town

104

Where to eat

106

Dine out

113

My favourite recipe

127

Inverloch, Venus Bay & (94) Foster

Check out what’s going on around your town (&133)

A quick handy guide on where to wine, dine and snack

Seafood Platter at Palms @ Kahloa

Claypot Curry House

Lifestyle Review Metricon Magic

146

Coast directory Find what you need

features Angus McClaren From Krowera to the Rafters

Shooting from the hip Carolyn Johns amazing life

Gypsy Love Life on the road

Surfer Profile Jess Laing

Travel Story Magical Morocco

ART + CULTURE FEATURE Your ultimate art guide

Artist Profile Fiona Kennedy

Artist Profile Noelle Buckley

It’s Tool Time Meet the men of the men’s shed

Portrait of Love Vladimir Sobolev

Funky Beach House Living green on the coast

117

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coastlife autumn

the surfer and the mermaid Coast legend and hot photographer Ted Grambeau has collaborated with writer Tim Baker to create a children’s book with a positive & enjoyable environmental message. tedgrambeau.myshopify.com

film buffs head to fish creek! The newly-formed Prom Coast Film Society has a ripper season of films ahead. Each will be shown in the recently-refurbished Fish Creek Hall. Mixing contemporary films such as Animal Kingdom and The King’s Speech with classics like Delicatessen and Rosemary’s Baby, the Society has caught the eye of some notable buffs. David Stratton has even had an invite and is hoping to appear at the Society for a screening later in the season. www.famda.org.au

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Coast’s resident cartoonist’s latest creation is a children’s book that aims to give an understanding about depression and to get kids talking about this difficult subject. He’s interested in getting his creation out there. Please contact Curl on johmarks@bigpond.net.au

art & soul

Come and see how artists create their artworks and have the opportunity to speak to them in person. This year, ART & SOUL will showcase the amazing talents of chainsaw sculptors from ArtIsTree, an international art group who perform, sculpt and sell their work all over the globe. Mix this with a beautiful backdrop, great food and wine, music and art market - it’s a perfect day out. This year you will be entertained by the grooves of the Tea Leaves, The Quarry Mountain Dead Rats and Family Tree. Not to be missed. Proudly sponsored by PURPLE C, FOODWORKS San Remo, RETRAVISION & COAST MAGAZINE

ART & SOUL Summer Festival, Saturday 19th March, 9am - 4pm. Newhaven College Yr 9 Environmental Campus, 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Sunset Strip. If you would like to ﬁnd out more about the festival, log onto www.artyfarty.com.au Tickets at the gate. Adults $12 Kids (under 12) $2

a hole in one for kids cancer

The annual You Are My Sunshine Foundation Charity Golf Day at Phillip Island Golf Club hits off Friday 25 March. This year’s event, sponsored by FKP Property Group (the developers of Shearwater on the Island), will see teams of four teeing off in an Ambrose Event. “This year we hope to have 30 teams participating in this fun-filled day”, said Jude Donahoo, founding member of YAMS Foundation - the legacy of little Kahlilla Donahoo who died at just five years of age from neuroblastoma, a deadly childhood cancer. The foundation is funding research into a cure for neuroblastoma. For more information, please contact Jude Donahoo on 0409 961 904.

Ken Shaw featured in our summer edition was on the brink of attempting a ride of 400 kilometres in 24 hours. On 7 December, the 78-year old completed his ride with ease - cycling over 430km and raising close to $10 000 for charity. “I could have done more,” says Ken. “I was very happy and surprised at how good I felt.” And what’s next for Ken? He’s not sure, but is thinking about making a Christmas CD – stay tuned! Donations can still be made at Alex Scott and Staff in A’Beckett St, Inverloch, call 5674 4514.

he did it!

go away mr worry thoughts Nicky Johnston wrote a book for her son Bayley who suffers from Generalised Anxiety Disorder. This book has now been transformed into a 40-minute production by Frankston Performing Arts Centre. The show travels to your school to promote discussion and awareness about this important issue. artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au

delicious recipes online Go online at www. coastmagazine.net and try some mouth watering recipes from our favourite local restaurants.

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get fi red up!

Creative Gippsland is gearing up for its third annual Be Inspired Arts Festival and the theme is - LIGHT. All through May 2011 artists & performers will be firing up in a festival program of 100+ creative events across Gippsland. Artistic Director, Neill Gladwin is on board to help create six brilliant events. THE GOLDSMITH’S GALLERY in San Remo is holding an exhibition of glass and enamel jewellery makers titled “All fired up” for the month of May. Check out www.goldsmithgallery.com.au 5678 5788 Shop 3 - Bridgeview Arcade, San Remo.

frankston hall of fame Frankston’s Kananook Creek Boulevard is now paved with stars. For the past three years, Frankston City has inducted 23 famous residents into their Hall of Fame. Each is now recognised with their own plaque. This year’s recipients were artist Rick Amor, Australia’s second-youngest Prime Minister - Viscount Stanley Melbourne Bruce, paralympian Ellie Cole, athlete Debbie Flintoff-King, surgeon Mr Graeme Miller, journalist Peter Mitchell and young Crusty Demons stunt-rider Blake Williams. Other famous Frankston faces include Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, Sir Daryl and Lady Joan Lindsay, Mal Walden and many more.

limbs4life The calm waters and wheelchair access ramp of Smith’s Beach, Phillip Island make the perfect location for some surfing and beach play. Each year the amputee children of Limbs4life meet for a morning of surfing with local volunteers. The children are of all ages, some with congenital amputations and others with an amputation due to cancer, meningococcal or accident. Surfing is a great socially inclusive activity, helps promote a healthy lifestyle and targets coordination and balance. www.limbs4life.com 1300 782 231 (Pictured: Abby Vidler and Jack Howell enjoy the day)

sheep dip! Local legend Mike Cleeland has recently released a new booklet of bush verse. Poems are based on his varied experiences working on farms and in shearing sheds locally and interstate over the past 30 years. Verses are guaranteed to bring a laugh, and the wonderful comic illustrations by his wife Pip breathe life into characters such as Gravity Bob, Rawhide, Uncle Peter and some other locals. On sale at Cowes Newsagent. Proceeds assist Phillip Island Landcare.

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grand designs Having enjoyed many fabulous Phillip Island holidays, the Carlson family decided to swap their fibro weekender in Cowes for a block of farmland overlooking Bass Strait. Large expanses of enviro-glass plus a thirdstorey viewing tower will capture the full vista of the ocean. However, the exposed nature of the site means that substantial steel framing and heavy masonry walls are needed to anchor this 40-plus-square structure. Peter and Wendy are keen for their home to reﬂect and complement the topography and colours of the landscape, so a mixture of exposed timber, stone, corrugated iron and textured blocks will be used. Follow their life-changing build here in Coast magazine.

132 Whitelaw St Meeniyan VIC 3956 | Phone 5664 0055 | Please visit www.lacyjewellery.com.au coast 15

Art and Soul Summer Festival When: Sat 19 Mar Where: Newhaven College Environmental Campus 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Sunset Strip, Phillip Island Who: www.artyfarty.com.au

march 2011

High Plains Muster by John Firth When: March Where: Hunt Foyer, Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787

Slumped Glass Artist Trish Hill from Koonwarra When: March - April Where: Leongatha Gallery Opposite Leongatha PO 0400195474

McClelland Sculpture Survey When: Until 17 July 2011 Where: McClelland Sculpture Park 390 McClelland Dve, Langwarrin Who: Call 9789 1610 www.mcclellandgallery.com

Inverloch Jazz Fest When: Fri 11 – Mon 14 Mar Where: Inverloch Town Who: www.inverlochjazzfestival.com

Kongwak Market When: Every Sunday Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478

Phillip Island & San Remo Rotary Art & Photographic Show When: Fri 11 Mar – Mon 14 Mar Where: Wynne Rd, San Remo Who: Robyn Dennis 0411 549 380 sanremoartshow@gmail.com

april 2011

Bluehouse Picnic Concert When: Sun 13 March 5-9pm Where: Purple Hen Winery 96 McFees Rd, Rhyll Who: www.purplehenwines.com.au Cowes Night Market: Where: Cowes foreshore, Phillip Island When: Sat 12 Mar, 5-9pm Who: Anne Marie Emanuele 5952 1131 www.cowesnightmarket.org.au 2011 World Kneeboard Titles When: 16 Mar Where: Cape Woolamai Who: Jim Brown 0438 360 166 www.2011kneeboardsurﬁngworldtitles.com

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Cowes Night Market When: Sat 2 Apr, 5-9pm Where: Cowes foreshore, Phillip Island Who: Anne Marie Emanuele 5952 1131 www.cowesnightmarket.org.au Coopera – Marriage of Figaro When : Fri 8 Apr 7.30 for 8pm start Where : Cowes Cultural Centre Who : Anne Davie 59568216 bimbadeen@nex.net.au Tuesdays with Morrie When: 1 & 2 April Where: Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St Frankston Who: 9784 1060 artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au Bass Hills Breathtaker Bikeride When: Sat 16 Apr Where: Start Archies on the Creek Who: www.eventsupport.com.au Call 5952 2411

Mossvale Park Music Festival When: Sat 19 Mar Where: Mossvale Park Rd, Berry’s Creek Who: www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au/mossvale

Prom Coast Seachange Festival When: Fri 8 – Mon 11 April Where: venues in and around Foster Who: Joan Liley 5663 2242

Live for the Future, South Gippsland Sustainability Festival When: Sat 19 Mar Where: Coal Creek, Korumburra Who: Christine Hamilton 5655 1811

Windows on Foster Sculpture Event When: Thurs 7 – Mon 18 April Where: Main Street Foster shop windows Who: Mandy Gunn 5663 5577

John Mustaers Easter Exhibition When: Sat 23 – Tue 26 Apr Where: Opusjoop Studio, 9 Churchill Cres, Inverloch Who: John 0402 392 799 opusjoop1@gmail.com Lost & Found Artworks by David Frazer When: 17 Apr – 21 May Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Eric Bibb at Meeniyan Hall When: Fri 8 Apr Where: Meeniyan Hall, Meeniyan Who: www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au Coal Creek Farmers Market When: Sat 9 Apr, 8-1pm Where: Coal Creek, Korumburra Who: 0459 629 000 Balnarring Picnic Races When: Sat 23 Apr Where: Balnarring Race Course, Coolart Rd (Melway Reference 163 H9) Who: 5983 9430 www.balnarringraces.com Churchill Island Heritage Farm Easter Fun Festival When: Easter - Sat 23 & Sun 24 Apr Where: Churchill Island, Phillip Island Who: 5951 2800 www.penguins.org.au Coronet Bay Beach Fair When: Sun 24 Apr Where: Cnr Cuttysark & Champs Elysees Ave, Coronet Bay Who: Chris Hutton bandchutton@bigpond.com www.basscoast.vic.gov.au Sand Sculpting Australia - Creepy Crawlies When: Until 26 Apr Where: Frankston waterfront Who: www.sandsculpting.com.au Frankston Visitor Information Centre 1300 322 842 www.visitfrankston.vic.gov.au McClelland Sculpture Survey When: Until 17 July Where: McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, Mc Clelland Dve, Langwarrin Who: www.mcclellandgallery.com Kongwak Market When: Every Sunday Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478

may 2011 Creative Gippsland festival of LIGHT Felting Artist Astara Rose & friends Workshops in drawing, basketry & more When: Month of May Where: Leongatha Gallery Opposite Leongatha PO 0400195474 Comedy Festival Roadshow When: Sun 1 May Where: Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St Frankston Who: 9784 1060 artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au All Fired Up Exhibition and workshops with nationally renowned glass & enamel tutors. When: Sat 7 May – Sun 29 May Where: The Goldsmith’s Gallery, Bridgeview Arcade, San Remo Who: Call 5678 5788 goldsmithsgallery.com.au Joe White at Meeniyan Hall When: Fri 13 May Where: Meeniyan Hall, Meeniyan Who: www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au Workshops in drawing, basketry & more When: Throughout May Where: Leongatha Art & Craft Society Who: Call 5662 5370 Where: Various locations Opposites Attract – Group Show Artworks by David Frazer When: 22 May – 18 June Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Creative Gippsland festival of LIGHT Etchings and paintings by Andrew Southall & Peter Walker When: Throughout May Where: Mingara Gallery 242 Thompson Ave, Cowes Who: www.mingaragallery.com.au Kongwak Market When: Every Sunday Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478

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Bruce and Cheryle Matthew spent the best part of a decade on their yacht circumnavigating the globe. They lived their dream with a few nightmares thrown into the mix. Now back in Fish Creek, they reckon such a journey requires a mixture of being a bit reckless and having complete faith in each other. They also learnt that, at the end of the day, it’s family and each other that are most important…

Cheryle

Bruce

We met on a blind date on Phillip Island 20 years ago. Mutual friends said, ‘You guys should get together’ and we did. On one of our first dates, we went sailing. We heeled over and water gushed in and I screamed: ‘F*@#, this is fantastic - can we go any faster?’ and Bruce thought, ‘That’s it: I’m going to marry her!’

I met Cheryle on Phillip Island. I don’t remember too much - the first two weeks were a blur! When I took her sailing, I suppose it was a test in a way, but I would have stayed with her anyway. The fact that she liked sailing was just the icing on the cake.

It was always a dream to circumnavigate, so we made sure we had an ocean-going boat from the word ‘go’. Bruce definitely is the skipper but I have my sixpenny’s worth. I’m a bit reckless - I take Bruce out of his comfort zone all the time. But in all honesty, vital life decisions are made by Bruce in consultation with me. We can both sail equally well, so if something happened to Bruce, I could sail us home. Bruce can fix anything. The worst weather we experienced was when we were just starting out off Gabo Island. It was the same weather pattern as that dreadful year in the Sydney to Hobart race. We were only three hours away from Eden, but it took us 13 and we were hammered the whole way. It was horrible. The longest we went without seeing land was 22 days crossing the Pacific. A highlight was when we went 100 miles up the Gambia River and moored near a family of hippos. We also went to see a family of chimpanzees in the jungle - that was awesome. Then Bruce got malaria and we nearly lost him. I was terrified. I wanted to get him on a plane to England, but he was too sick. The most dangerous moment was the pirate attack. We knew there was some risk, so yachties were meeting in Oman and crossing together. Oh, it was awful. We saw them coming and heard gunshots, then it became clear it was us they were going for. I stood up and looked through the window: there were guys shooting at us with AK47s. We’d all been calling maydays, and a commercial ship heard us and turned back. The pirates turned around when they saw the ship. We were so lucky. I stood on the deck when the Americans came, calling ‘God Bless America!’ We are totally open-minded and not racist in any way. We were invited to a coffee ceremony in Eritrea by kids who were hiding from the army. They made the coffee in a shell casing from a mortar and filtered it with dry grass, and washed our feet as part of the ceremony. We did a lot of things others maybe wouldn’t because they’re too scared – we just go for it! In the end, we had to come home due to a family medical emergency. What I learnt was that material things mean absolutely nothing – family is everything. It took us eight and a half years to do the first half of the world and eight months to do the second! If not for the problem back in Australia, we’d still be sailing. Now that everything’s settled down, we reckon we’ve got one more sail left in us…

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It’s always been a boyhood dream of mine to sail around the world. Cheryle said, ‘Well, let’s do it!’ We had no idea how much it would cost or how long we were going for. We were only half way up the coast of Queensland when we ran out of money, so we had to work to keep our adventure going. We got to Cairns and joined a cruise across the top of Australia. We met a lot of people who were sailing around the world – and we were hooked! People think it’s easy. It’s absolutely fantastic, but hard work. When the winds change at 2.30 in the morning and you are up changing the sails – it’s a job. As far as highlights go, there’s no real stand out, but the Gambia River was up there: it’s so different. Carnivale in Trinidad was also incredible. Tonga is an amazing country. Money is not important there; it’s about enjoying life and family. Turkey and Gallipoli were memorable, and we even got arrested in Italy! When we were in Eritrea we went to Keren, and we were the only white people on the bus. We went out one night and came back to about 100 men sitting around our courtyard watching the American bombing of Iraq on TV. We asked the manager if we were safe, and he said ‘Come and sit down, watch with us!’ There was never any problem. Finally, we left the Canary Islands and sailed 22 000 miles to get home in eight months. We sailed straight from Tonga to Brisbane - at the wrong time of year, but the weather was great. When we finally got to Brisbane, we were one of the first yachts back in Australia that season. It was very exciting. I was over the moon to be home - it was over. I would have sold the boat then and there, but it was also a bit of an anti-climax in a way. We thought, ‘Now what?’ But I’m ready to go again. We’re a team. Cheryle is adventurous, and I just love everything about her. I think she’s terrific: she’s my soul mate. She inspires confidence in me. The experience made me more restless. What’s important is each other and family. People ask me what is the best country we’ve been to, and I say, ‘You’re in it’. It’s been a privilege. People say we’ve been lucky, but luck has nothing to do with it – if you want to do something, you have to get out there and make it happen. C

words as told to sally o’neill photos supplied

“It was awful. We saw them coming and heard gunshots, then it became clear it was us they were going for. I stood up and looked through the window: there were guys shooting at us with AK47s.”

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words kate lindsay photos ÂŠ brenner liana photography

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Fact from

There’s a stark contrast between being raised in the quiet South Gippsland hills of Krowera and entering the homes of over 2 million Australians every week, but for Angus McLaren, playing the part of Nathan Rafter in the TV hit series Packed to the Rafters means that living a polarised life is kind of normal.

But ‘normal’ takes on a whole new meaning for a 22-year-old when complete strangers feel compelled to come up and give him marital advice despite the fact that he is still happily single. “People do tend to take a little bit of ownership over you. They feel like they know you, and they want to come up and chat, tell you their opinions and give you advice. It can be cool, and it can be overwhelming. Most of the time they don’t actually take into consideration that I’m somebody other than Nathan, the person they see on the screen, but you need to just laugh it off.” These are wise words from a young actor who has been in full-time work since he was 16, with credits on hit shows like Neighbours, Blue Heelers, All Saints and The Saddle Club. But Rafters is a different kettle of fish altogether, and is often applauded for its courage in dealing with some of society’s taboo topics. Angus believes that this is what makes the show so appealing. “It’s been a massive challenge, but it’s been fantastic, because you feel like you’re doing something worthwhile. I guess you’re giving people an excuse to talk about certain topics that otherwise might not be raised. I have sometimes felt in the past that acting is perhaps not the most noble of professions and as an actor you don’t contribute that much. But in a social sense you absolutely do, and I think that this is very much the case with Rafters.” At home in Krowera, real-life parents Kerena and Peter, who sit down each week to watch Angus call someone else ‘Mum’ and ‘Dad’, have now accepted the fact that they have a highly-recognised son. “This has been quite scary for them in some ways, but they’ve been very supportive, more than I could possibly have imagined,” says Angus. Returning to South Gippsland is always refreshing for Angus, who currently resides in Sydney, where Rafters is filmed. “I’m learning to appreciate coming home more and more as the years go by. Sometimes when I was younger I thought that the country was maybe not as exciting as the city, but I really couldn’t have wished for a better upbringing in terms of where I lived. I really appreciate going home now. It’s a great place to relax and wind down, and I understand now why Dad made the move.” >>

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and stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa

“People do tend to take a little bit of ownership over you. They feel like they know you, and they want to come up and chat, tell you their opinions and give you advice. It can be cool, and it can be overwhelming. Most of the time they don’t actually take into consideration that I’m somebody other than Nathan, the person they see on the screen.”

This talented young man is also the drummer in up-and-coming indie band Rapids, and it’s the musical roots inherited from his family that give him a passion outside of work. “I’ve been playing music for at least as long as I have been acting, that’s for sure. Dad had always played in bands, and my brothers Aidan and Rhett were also involved in music. All the guys in the band live together in a warehouse in Redfern. I can come home and drop everything: we sort of reconvene in the evenings, and that’s been the best thing, I think, because it is so far removed from work. Acting, though, continues to be Angus’ main focus. Filming for a single series can take up to seven months, working 12 to 13 hours at least five days a week. It’s also a career where day-to-day tasks present great variety. “Television work is structured... and it’s not. You get a call sheet the night before to let you know what you’re going to be doing, but until you actually see what the sets are like or where the location is, you’re never too sure what will happen. It’s a nice work environment because it’s forever changing.” So will Angus McLaren think about heading to Hollywood and having a crack at the Big Time anytime soon? “Well… I’m certainly not going to race over there immediately, because you need to be ready mentally. I suppose one day you just need to make that leap of faith. I’m really looking forward to doing it, but at the right time. I’m looking forward to surprising people in the future.” And Angus is under no illusions about the glitz and glamour of Sydney. “I think people living in South Gippsland should be very grateful. It’s one of the coolest places on the planet, and they should count their blessings.” C

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words sue webster photos ÂŠ carolyn johns

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artist profile

A country girl turned high-calibre photographer makes a return to the land.

Strapped into harness, legs hanging out the hatch of a KC-135 transport plane, trying to film two oncoming F/A-18 jet fighters … Carolyn Johns has had tougher gigs. Getting Jo Bjelke-Petersen to look halfway human, for example…“He could never look you in the eye,” says the Koonwarra photographer. “And Sir John Kerr, getting him sober...” The thrill of photographing fighter planes in mock combat at 5000ft was nothing compared to her moment of ultimate photographic joy — shooting a monkey and a mouse … but more of that later. Welcome to the life of Carolyn Johns – international documentary photographer, shortbread maker, former intensive-care nurse, and ex-church organist. She’s covered a bit of turf in her 50-plus years. “I had a dream, and I’ve had an amazing career,” she says. Her work over 30 years has seen her photographing for the Sunday Times magazine, Conde Nast and Vanity Fair. She was one of the first Australian photographers to be commissioned by National Geographic, and co-founded the Wildlight Photo Agency in Sydney. Her work shooting stills for films has taken her onto the sets of major movie blockbusters such as Babe and Mad Max 2. A country girl, Carolyn carved a niche in one of the toughest gigs going – freelance photography in London. How did she manage it? “It’s tough. It’s all really tough, but I made them employ me. I just had a dream run from one contact and interesting situation to the next,” she says. “Everything I touched opened up. It showed me I was on the right track.” Carolyn found herself covering a Bogartlookalike event at the Cannes Film Festival, and a double-page photograph that ran in Paris Match shows her among the phalanx

of photographers. “They were all male except for one female - me … and I was looking the other way!” she laughs. It’s a whole world away from the sheep and wheat farm on the volcanic plains of Victoria’s west where she grew up. The day she and her twin were born, their parents topped the Geelong wool sales. One of five girls, she had a classic country childhood. For entertainment, their father played the piano, there was the radio, and Carolyn played the old pedal organ on Sundays at the local bluestone church. She left boarding school in Ballarat and became an intensive-care nurse. Then she had the ‘ah-hah’ moment. “I was 24 and I went scuba diving with a nursing sister colleague. What I saw revealed underwater was a world of nature I had not been exposed to. I had to tell people about that discovery, and my friend suggested I pursue photography.” She headed off overseas, studying documentary photography with the famous Magnum photographers in Wales and France and paying her way by nursing. The long hours took their toll: “I’d often fall asleep in bus shelters waiting for the bus in the snow.” Her background working with vulnerable patients and their families, as well as some training in psychology, helped give her the edge as a photographer. “I was a nurse for 10 years and you learn to read people very quickly,” she says. After five years, she started to get a hankering for home. “I think I wanted to come back and see my family. I always knew I was never going to be an ‘English’ person. That was not where my>>

a photographer’s eye

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artist profile

“I got a shock when I came back. I didn’t really know where I would fit in because I wasn’t exactly a Women’s Weekly photographer or a press photographer.”

opportunities were going to come from. I knew that was not the way my life was going to go. But I got a shock when I came back. I didn’t really know where I would fit in because I wasn’t exactly a Women’s Weekly photographer or a press photographer. I thought … how am I going to do it out here? I walked the streets of Melbourne in the early hours of the morning wondering what on earth I was going to be doing. Days later, she was invited to join 100 photographers from all over the world to shoot A Day in the Life of Australia. Then, using contacts from the Australian film industry, she got an interview with George Miller, who was about to start filming Mad Max 2. “Film photography is all about storytelling,” says Carolyn. “It’s my job to capture the energy and communicate what that story is. That’s my challenge, taking pictures that capture the energy of the movie – that story – in one picture. I talked to George about the storytelling. It was his great love. He saw that I understood that and employed me immediately, and within a few weeks I was out in the desert shooting Mad Max 2 for 15 weeks.” “Mel Gibson only had 15 lines to say in the film but I adored photographing him.” She also loved photographing the animal stars of Babe: the pig, the capuchin monkey, a mouse, and a goose called Ferdie were among the best actors she has ever met, she laughs. Are stars different? “You get some amazing actors who don’t act like stars, and then there are stars who act like stars and that’s a whole other breed … there’s a lot more stress in catering for their needs!” Stress is a thing of the past for Carolyn now. “There’s a point where you project yourself into the future and ask, ‘If I’m going to be sitting on a verandah on a rocking chair … what would I like to see?’ Waking around 5am most mornings, she now sips tea on the balcony of her home on the crest of a hill overlooking Meeniyan to the Prom. Ten years ago she moved onto five acres, into a new fully solarpowered house using a high level of technology that sees the solar panels track and follow the sun. “Koonwarra reminds me of where I grew up, but more… “pioneering”. It has good rainfall and very clean air. I met a few people who were doing interesting things here. With Melissa Burge, I got involved in the Slow Food movement … that was very important.” Her Story of Food exhibition, formerly on display at Koonwarra’s Peaceful Gardens organic cooking school, now hangs in>

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artist profile

“I need to step out from behind my camera and demonstrate what is important.”

part among the baskets of fresh food in the Paddlewheel Farmers’ Market Store. Food…she photographs it, she grows it, she eats it, she understands its value. Her ideal meal? “Very simple,” says Carolyn. “No additives, absolutely fresh from the ground or the animal. I’d want eye fillet that melts in your mouth and the freshest and most exquisite vegetables, and organic if possible.” She looks out over a vegetable garden and a paddock where, until recently, a Murray Grey and an Angus called Osso and Buco grazed. “They were very tasty,” she adds. For Carolyn, relaxation means flipping dog biscuits for Jack, a three-legged Bichon Frise to catch. Or crafting elegant shortbread biscuits. Or rediscovering the joys of a pressure cooker. Or playing romantic love songs from the 1930s on her piano.

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Her firm, Kingdom Productions, is in the business of photographing “things that people love”, she says. “It’s based a lot around food and nature but I’m definitely not the earth-mother type. I like beauty, not grunge; I like artisan, not hippy.” With such a stellar career behind her, Carolyn now sees her biggest challenge is in front of her lens. ”I need to step out from behind my camera and demonstrate what is important. The way we view and interact with food, which is our life force, has changed so dramatically and is now threatened. Food is no longer understood and valued as our energy source or the very thing that nurtures and loves us. When we understand this, we make clear decisions to support the source of that nurturing. I want everyone to feel that love from food that is free of chemicals, is bursting with energy, taste, and the ‘Oh my god this tastes like heaven’ because that’s what vitality and health is . . . . . . .heaven!” C

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Champion of the working class, legendary screenwriter Jimmy McGovern (left) is the creator of many TV series such as ‘Cracker’, ‘The Street’ and, soon to be released in Australia, ‘Accused’. Coast caught up with Jimmy at Silverwater Resort in San Remo where he was a special guest of the Australian Writers’ Guild’s National Screenwriters’ Conference. Over a cold ale he reveals what it takes to be a writer and how the coast has shaped his life, giving him a permanent wanderlust…

fifteenminutesoffame words as told to sally o’neill photo louisa steckenreuter

Your earliest memory?

Are screenwriters the psychologist or the patient?

Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?

Is there any topic that’s too hard to tackle?

Oh my god! It’s going back a while now… I was about three or four and I remember putting the hands of the clock forward to four o’clock so the other kids would be home from school. I was the fifth of nine children, but at that stage I was a bit lonely.

Yes, but we were all skint when I left school at 15. I always knew I wanted to be a writer or journalist, but didn’t know how. In primary school, a teacher held a writing competition; we had to write about our family’s morning routine. I knew what to do to win that prize; I described Dad shaving. I remember every detail and I knew I had to do something to stand out from the crowd. I gave my story to the teacher, but then one kid in my street got sick and we were all wiped out and I couldn’t go to school. It wasn’t until the end of term that the teacher remembered to tell me I had won the prize!

Your ﬁrst script?

It was a short play that was performed by Unity Theatre. There was a tradition of radical theatre in the UK and Unity Theatre was right up there. They paid me fifteen pounds for it! Then the TV series ‘Brookside’ started in my ‘own backyard’ in Liverpool. I got a job writing for the series. We would get the storylines on a Friday and I worked all weekend to find that strand of storyline that got me in the gut and heart, the one that I’d write for nothing if I had to, and built it up into a crescendo of emotion so when I went into the production meetings, I’d win my storyline nearly every time! You have to do anything to look different and be noticed, and you’ve got to give it everything you’ve got.

Does writing take courage?

Not physical courage: I don’t have any of that. It takes emotional courage, though. I’ve written things about deaths and disasters and it requires a wee bit of emotional courage to go in there and talk to the families who have been through it. But good writing comes from your head, heart and guts.

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Every writer should be accused of needing a psychologist – it’s a badge of honour! All of my characters come from me. You have to find each character inside yourself – the good and the bad. Writing is about going inside people’s heads and hearts.

No, but it’s just the energy required that’s sometimes too hard. I try to conserve energy these days. When I get home to England, I’m doing a story about young men in gangs. It’ll be great, but it’ll take a lot of energy.

What does the coast mean to you?

It means a great deal to me, being brought up in a port town. There’s some sculpture in the north of Liverpool, in Crosby, called Iron Men. It’s a group of statues on the beach staring out to sea. It sounds obvious, but when you are on the coast, you always look out to sea and when you are on a ship, you always look inland, and to me that speaks volumes about the human condition, that wanderlust. I think that’s always been a part of me. I wouldn’t be the same man if I hadn’t been brought up in a port.

What issues have you seen in Australia?

Overwhelmingly Aboriginal issues. I think it’s appalling: their land has been taken and it’s unfair. I am working on a project now with Aboriginal people [Redfern Now is the first TV drama series to be written, directed and produced by indigenous Australians]. It’s been very hard work and yet so rewarding – I’m sure all the Aboriginal writers would also agree with that.

If you were Prime Minister for a day?

I would refuse to spend one more cent on roads. I’d spend it all on trains and buses – it doesn’t sound much really, does it? But that’s what I’d do. C

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Gypsy Love Kushti Bok is one gorgeous Kombi. This 1974-model ‘home on wheels’ weaves her magic across Australia driven by owner Gypsy Love and partner Max Flint. words sally o’neill photos warren reed

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We take a magical ride in Kushti Bok, the ultimate freedom Kombi… Gypsy Love’s life has been extraordinary, from marrying her hitchhiking partner who is now missing (presumed dead) to couch-surfing and dumpster-diving for food through to completing university degrees – and that’s not the half of it! But now she’s hit her stride – she and partner Max Flint are self-declared ‘nomadic Australians’ travelling the country from end to end, living ‘by faith’ and helping others. Gypsy Love and Max Flint live much like traditional Roma People . Their chosen life on the road follows the markets, fairs and festivals up and down the east coast of Australia and sees them selling trinkets and charms and offering spiritual healing and advice. Their home on wheels is the wonderful Kushti Bok – meaning ‘good luck’. This wicked green Kombi, adorned with timber panelling and complete with roof garden, wood heater and solar power, is their bedroom, loungeroom, office, transport and showroom – she is even reported to have been blessed by the King of the ‘Gypsies’.

Gypsy started life as Carmel and, through the 60s and 70s, she spent every weekend on Phillip Island. “I remember the old bridge. Mum would say ‘We’re crossing now’ and we’d all look down through the gaps at the water. We had the second house in the estate, and moved down permanently when electricity came to Cape Woolamai. I used to get in my dad’s old HD and teach myself to drive on the back roads and paddocks,” says Gypsy as we sit cosily inside Kushti on the San Remo foreshore. “I started designing my first house truck when I was twelve. I’d never seen one before, but it must be in the genes. It’s the itchy feet, the nomadic blood. We were told we were descended from gypsies, but I’d never seen a gypsy vardo (van). Through the teen years, I started palmistry – I always was interested in spiritual things. I was always different.” Young Carmel left home at sixteen under a bit of a cloud and set off into the world like an innocent lamb to the proverbial. The>

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next few years are full of stories that would curl your hair – abusive relationships, death threats, dangers and new beginnings. “I ran away many times and eventually ended up on the streets in the folk scene with the musicians and artists. It was the end of the hippy era and we were couch-surfing all over - in community houses in the city, even up with the bush people in Belgrave - the music people,” reminisces Gypsy. “I married my hitchhiking partner and endured a year of very serious abuse before he went missing. It was different then. Legislation for domestic violence didn’t come in until 1986.” It gets worse. “When he left, I found he hadn’t made a single payment on the house. Eventually I paid off the debt and owned the home, and got a new partner. We came to the Mornington Peninsula to have a baby, but I found out that my missing husband had sold the house for $2000 for drug money. The very next day the Ash Wednesday bush fires took the lot, there was nothing to fight for or go back to. I stayed on the Peninsula and remarried and lost myself for many years.” A legacy from her second husband was her surname – Love. And, while working as an Auslan interpreter, she was given the sign name ‘Gypsy’. Both have stuck. In total, Gypsy has had and lost 27 homes. “I’m pretty slow for a psychic person – I took a long time to realise that I shouldn’t have a house at all!” she laughs. “But I’m never coming off the road – I own my home now, “ she says affectionately of Kushti Bok. How Kushti came into her life is another incredible tale. Living in Brisbane and back on her spiritual path, Gypsy had a strong message about the car she was “going to have”: a Kombi, green, costing $4000. It manifested into her first van home, ‘Xena’. “That’s eight bling bracelets in ten minutes,” reports Max cheerfully through the van door. “Very good, my love,” says Gyspy, and continues: “I lived in Xena and travelled from place to place. About four years ago, Xena’s engine died after the Woodford Festival. I thought I’d park and sit it out until I raised the money for a new one. Even the Lord Mayor came to try to kick me out – but I said, ’No. I’m not homeless. I’ve run one of those homeless organisations! I know who I am and where I stand’. ” A friend told Gypsy about an amazing Kombi for sale on eBay. “I said, ‘That’s John’s car in Lithgow. How can he sell it now when I don’t have a cent? Oh no, my favourite Kombi, oh no!’ ” She rang John to ask why he was selling, but he said he’d decided he couldn’t do it. “He’d taken her off the market, but he’d sell to me. I said, ‘Give me 24 hours’. ” The next day she was knocked back by the banks and every other

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financial institution she rang. With an hour to go, she thought of a finance advisor she knew. “I rang and he answered, ‘Hello, Gypsy. What can I do for you?’ I said, ‘I’m looking for the dodgiest loan shark in the country. I have no home, no job, no steady income and no money in the bank account.’ He said, ‘I’ll give you the money myself: I know your reputation’. He came over with the papers straight away. I rang John right at the last minute and said, ‘I’ve got the money’,” she giggles. “So that’s how I got Kushti Bok.” With her new home sorted, she set about selling Xena. And – that’s yet another story! “I finally sold her to a guy who showed up at Panton Hills Fair. He said he loved the car. I told him I had another one the same and her name was Xena. He told me that he was thinking of getting a van for his daughter and himself, and his daughter’s name means ‘warrior woman’. He said: ‘I’ll buy her’. When he turned out to be nice, I decided to keep him as a husband!” she says triumphantly. At that moment the man in question leans in the back window with a snack. “Thank you, my love,” she says to Max. As it turns out, Gypsy had actually intended to set Max up with her friend – but after he showed such interest and made significant and positive changes in his life in a short time, Gypsy had to renege on the offer. “He swore he was never going back to drugs, so I kept him for myself!” Max takes a short break from working the crowds that flock to the Kombi. “We might have Australia’s smallest house, but we have the biggest backyard you’ve ever seen in your life,” he states. “If this was stuck in one place, it could get too much. But it’s a magic door – every time you step out, everything changes. Amazing people rock up – you may meet a Mormon preacher, or a Hell’s Angel covered in tattoos who’s on the spiritual path and wants to congratulate you on having such a wonderful vehicle.” “Our van is a ‘wonder magnet’ and because of that, we say that only wonderful people, and people who still have a sense of wonder, turn up at our door,” explains Max. “And they are exactly the sorts of people we are more than happy to spend time with. The people with the negative attitude tend to take one look at us and run for the hills!” “We’re not big on being called hippies. We don’t mind being called gypsies, but we’re quick to point out that we are not Rom, rather nomadic Australians,” says Gypsy. “It was not until I was in my forties and studying human rights at univeristy that the penny dropped i was of Aboriginal descent and not Rom; a common mistruth told to stolen generation descendants to explain dark colouring.” Their work is varied, but the constant is that she and Max are on duty 24/7. Wherever they park, people come. The pair sell a range of spiritual/ psychological tools, sells trinkets and charms, and offers healings and a range of other services. Gypsy has also written her own range of healing booklets and hopes to complete a PhD in>

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psychology with a client model in this field in the future. They operate their business on an honesty system, asking people to donate what they think their goods and services are worth.

home, and their dog Possum is very much part of the family. “They are forgetting where the market culture came from,” says Gypsy.

Gypsy and Max’s lifestyle is certainly a romantic one, but sometimes having no fixed address can be a little difficult – it’s a concept the authorities can’t seem to get their head around when the couple is trying to do things like open a PayPal account or register for a market stall.

Gypsy says her family thinks her lifestyle is “novel” but that doesn’t faze her. She knows she is living her truth. Her philosophy is: “Be true to yourself and recognise others’ truths as being true also.”

The pair also has a plan for the ‘Kushti Karavan Kollective’ – part of which involves trying to secure a space to hold their own events. This is in response to the increasing challenges they and other transient workers face. Rules like ‘No vans‘, ‘No dogs’, ‘No Parking’ make life difficult when your van is your

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So, Kushti Bok’s wheels keep on turning as she travels the coast spreading her magic and wonder. “I’ll stay on the road until I can’t do it any more,” says Gypsy. “We’ll continue to live in spirit and go where we are directed.” C www.kushtibok.net.au

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Riding the rogue wave words susan webster photos warren reed

At just 18, Phillip Island surfer Jess Laing is triumphing against her fair share of bad luck. Landing badly off a wave at Woolamai two years ago, she dislocated her shoulder. Corrective surgery had to be postponed when she copped a bout of glandular fever. And, underlying that, the champion surfer has been battling chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) ever since Grade 6. The virus hit towards the end of her school year, making her too tired to even attend her primary school graduation. And it never left. CFS has introduced unwelcome unpredictability into her life. A shopping trip or a late night can leave her wrung out for days afterwards. It has curtailed her education: she left school in Year 10 due to the illness. And it has curbed the thing she loves most - slicing the characteristic stylish bottom turns that earned her national and state junior surfing titles. Now she generally limits her time in the water to one surf a day … three, absolute max. Sometimes she finds herself so robbed of energy that just paddling back to the safety of the shore seems a major effort. “I remember one day my arms were so tired that I couldn’t even paddle back to the beach, but luckily Dad was with me. When I did get back, I was physically ill,” she recalls. “Nowadays, that doesn’t happen very often - I know my limits. I won’t go out when I’m tired. When I was younger I didn’t know my body as well.” Her body is toned and she is wearing a baggy, sleeveless loose-knit top over her bikini. Barefoot, slightly bronzed and looking superbly fit, it’s hard to realise she is in the grip of CFS. There aren’t even dark circles under her eyes. Her face, in fact, looks model-perfect. >

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surfer profile

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“I remember one day my arms were so tired that I couldn’t even paddle back to the beach, but luckily Dad was with me. When I did get back, I was physically ill.”

surfer profile

Is there any way of treating the condition? She sighs. “Oh… I’ve tried SO many different things, like different diets. I’ve cut things out of my diet rather than adding things. But I never noticed it made any difference. “At one stage I couldn’t eat wheat and dairy …” she rakes her hand through her tangled long hair and gives another exasperated sigh … “and do you know that they are in EVERYTHING? Even lollies contain wheat. I couldn’t eat chocolate and cake, my favourite foods. I’m a bit of a sweettooth.” She flashes a perfect row of pearl-white teeth. “Recently I’ve been doing a bit of yoga. There’s a DVD called Yoga for Surfers, and I’m going to give that a go.”

who put her, aged only four, on a longboard at Byron Bay. He pushed her out onto a wave … and she stood up. “After that I was surfing on boogie boards, and then I just got better,” she says. And yet, she has no natural sense of balance. “I have the worst balance ever,” she says. “But on a surfboard, things are different somehow.”

Only having a small window of opportunity in the day for surfing, she is very discerning about when she hits the water … a task made easier by the new house her parents Di and Richie have built at Surf Beach. The large expanse of living-room window looks out across the headland to the water below. Jess can check the conditions by simply walking upstairs. Then it’s just a matter of choosing a board from the family’s collection of 60. Yes, that’s 60… ranging from vintage boards of the 1950s and 60s stored in a specially-made overhead gantry in the garage to some funky longboards on display in the house. It’s a family gig. Dad surfs, as does Jess’s brother, who she credits with being an early mentor before she did some training with Mal Gregson. Mum Di videos her on the water and they watch the results at home to check style and faults – a kind of DIY training video. Dad was the one

She started competing when she was eight and won her first competition at about twelve. She claimed “lots of Victorian state titles” before snaring Australian titles in 2008 and 2009. Do the maths and you’ll realise that she won while doing battle with CFS. Why does she surf? “Being out there … you forget about the hassles. It’s like two different worlds –you can leave everything on land behind,” she says. Her competence on the waves as well as her gender made her a natural, along with her friends India Payne and Nikki van Dijk, for the Phillip Island surf-chick flick ‘First Love’. The filming took place over almost two years. “Something like that: it was a long time.” She finds a tangled strand of hair and teases at it. “But you get used to having a camera there all the time. It was easy. And in the film there’s not that much surfing.” So what about those non-surfing bits, like the ‘direct to camera’ shots? She pauses, twiddles her hair more. “Yeah, they were weird!” she laughs. C www.firstlovethefilm.com

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Lyrebird presents:

Mossvale Park. One perfect day! Gates open 12.30pm.

Saturday March 19 2011

The Strzelecki Stringbusters

When you arrive at the park, local band The Strzelecki Stringbusters, will be performing within the park. The band is a 14 piece string band featuring guitar, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, fiddle, double bass and harmonica, and they perform music to ‘make you smile’, thoroughly enjoyable and just the thing to get everyone in the mood for a great day. They will also play a few tunes at the end of the day so there is no need to rush home if you feel like staying and enjoying the day for a while longer.

Little John’

Every now and then a band emerges from seemingly nowhere to capture your attention and cause the hairs on your arms to stand up instantaneously. Little John are such a band. The Melbourne based five-piece are purveyors of country gospel and folk-rock…The band is the brain child of singer/songwriter & harmonica player from Redfish Bluegrass, John Dickson. The sound of Little John is captivating: it has been described as devotional, celebratory, heart-breaking and archaic. It combines the angelic harmonies reminiscent of the American Folk tradition with a gritty rock’n’roll delivery, evoking images of sparse American landscapes by way of a twisted Australian rhetoric.

Charles Jenkins & the Zhivagos

Charles Jenkins has been a very welcome fixture on the local Australian scene for a long time now and the loyalty of his fanbase is testament to the fact that he’s continued to evolve and chronicle his unique worldview in a way that continues to impress and earn his the respect of fans and critics alike. From his early band the Mad Turks of Istanbul, to the Ice Cream Hands and now with the Zhivagos and his solo records, Jenkins has been adored by his peers and critically acclaimed by the music media for years.

Joe Pug (USA)

Last November saw the first ever visit by Chicago born artist, Joe Pug. He was introduced to audiences in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne and Meeniyan and wowed them all. So much so, he has been asked back to play. Performing with his trusty guitar, harmonica and sweet and soulful vocal chords, Joe Pug takes you on a journey with a swag full of tunes from his acclaimed debut, Messanger, released last year on Shock.

Please note the creek is completely out of bounds proudly sponsored by

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Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission

Over the past five years, MICK THOMAS has been determined to reconfirm his standing as one of Australia’s finest singer/songwriters - both solo and with his fine band THE SURE THING. Since the demise of the iconic WEDDINGS PARTIES ANYTHING, Mick has been busy with his own label, Croxton Records. There’s also been numerous Sure Thing tours of the UK and Europe, Beijing and the USA, not to mention a fine list of independently released albums such as the classic ‘DUST ON MY SHOES’ and the landmark double CD set ‘THE HORSE’S PRAYER’. Mick will perform as Mossvale with his new band, the Roving Commission.

Martin Simpson (UK)

There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving.

Chris Wilson

Chris Wilson has been an essential part of blues and rock music in Australia since taking the stage with the Sole Twisters twenty years ago. His live performances, filled as they are with his own brand of sensuality and the dynamic power that leaves his audiences so satisfied, are always a highlight. Chris’ stage presence, voice and talent are all as big as the country he lives in. Chris will be performing at Mossvale with a star studded band.

www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

Set times

could change if anything untoward happens.

1:30–2:30 ‘Little John’

2:30–3:20

Charles Jenkins & the Zhivagos

3:20–4:15

Joe Pug (USA) Gareth Liddiard

Gareth Liddiard has spent the last ten years based in Melbourne and North East Victoria, where he has led the universally critically acclaimed band The Drones. Busy with the almost constant touring the band demands, it has not been until recently that he’s found the time to release his much anticipated solo album. Liddiard is a documentarian of sorts, unlike many of his peers, who look abroad for songwriting inspiration, Liddiard looks to the country he was born and raised in.

Glenn Richards

4:15–5:15

Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission

5:15–6:15

Martin Simpson (UK)

Augie March frontman Glenn Richards is an astounding singer/ songwriter, and his new solo project features the licks and beats of Dan Luscombe and Mike Noga from The Drones, as well as musical input from Glenn’s older brother Chris and Ben Bourke from Ned Collette’sband.

6:15–7:15

Justin Townes Earle (USA)

7:15–8:15

As tall as the day is long, all angles and elbows and a hard stare, both welcoming and deadly serious. He’s Nashville North, but in lower Manhattan now, just like his hero Woody Guthrie, with twang and charm intact. He’s found a sweet spot in the blackened hearts of fans and critics alike. “Boasting the kind of voice most often found on dust-covered 78s”, “Earle sings like a honky-tonk hero and thinks like a 21st century man”. AND ... to add to the entertainment there will be circus performers performing 4 times during the day. ‘The Power to Whaite Ratio’: Daniel Power and Avan Whaite are highly accomplished circus performers, who both have a strong movement element to their work. They will perform dizzying feats of strength and balance in a framework of lyrical movement, which gives an air of effortlessness and flight to the act. Daniel’s extreme flexibility coupled with Avan’s acrobatic and breakdance prowess creates a unique combination not found in other adagio pairs. This act draws skills from; acrobatics, contortion, contemporary dance, ballet, and break-dance.

Chris Wilson

Gareth Liddiard

8:15–9:30

Glenn Richards

9:30

Justin Townes Earle (USA) coast 43

The plane ticket was booked and the husband consoled. I was ready for 6 heady weeks on the wild continent, bound for fun and adventure. Only the will of the gods could change my travel plans, and it seemed their idea of adventure was quite different to my own. Nine months later, I was off on a new adventure (and it didn’t include the girls). Blessed motherhood! A traveller at heart, I was only a little disappointed that I missed the trip with the girls. I still had a burning desire to explore Morocco, and, hoping to pass this wanderlust on to our daughter, I decided we’d celebrate her first birthday there. Family and friends thought we were mad. “A one-year-old at home is challenge enough,” they laughed, “let alone travelling with one!” Undeterred, I started to investigate blogs about travelling and international flights with young children. The stories ranged from wonderment to the woe of battle-scarred

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parents. “Not for the faint-hearted,” said one; “They’ll never sleep again,” warned another. Armed with this information (and with a bit of lipbiting), I booked our tickets and before we knew it, we were landing in Africa. Our first stop on the continent was Casablanca. The name conjured images of Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart in the movie that made the town famous. At the very same airport we were met by our friends, who helped us find our feet in this amazing country. Their house was situated in a small port next to a local mosque, which was wonderful for buying fresh fish, but a wee bit LOUD when the regular call to prayer came over the loudspeaker. Julia assured us that after a few days we wouldn’t even notice it… a bit like jumbos flying over your house . . . hmmmmmm. After a week of fine French hospitality, we hired a car and took off into the country.

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The mystery and romance of Africa has always intrigued me, so when the opportunity arose to travel to Morocco with a group of wild, wandering women from Australia, I jumped at the chance. Nothing or nobody would stop me . . . or so I thought. words maria reed photos maria & warren reed

the majesty of morocco Morocco is a land of contrasts, from Atlantic Ocean surf to vast stretches of rich, red desert – and mountains and valleys, grandiose in their beauty. We imagined a desert country, but were surprised to learn that surfers travelled from around the world to try the breaks in Morocco. Yes, it seems surfing is much the same the world over, except there were no glossy Torquay-esque shops paying homage to surf brands. Imagine a small grass hut on the beach with wetsuits hanging over bamboo poles, and wetsuit hire a couple of dollars. This is surfing African style, and it’s relaxed and low-key like surfing should be. It’s a long dry road from Casablanca to Marrakech, but there are plenty of roadside stops where you can purchase treats like prickly-pear fruit, served straight from the end of a sharp knife. Marrakech is a vibrant, bustling centre, and has to be experienced to be believed. Now if you’re in for adventure, travelling with a small child by hire car (and no

accommodation booked) is a good start. We arrived in the jampacked backstreets of Marrakech with no idea where we should go or what we should be looking for. The Moroccan people score 10/10 for initiative. When a man on a bike noticed that we were 1) in a hire car – tick . . . 2) obviously tourists – tick . . . 3) had a look of confusion on our faces – tick… he became our instant tour guide, accommodation finder and tout (at a small fee, of course). As we wove through the narrowest of streets, negotiating people, donkeys, chickens and other vehicles, we started to doubt whether our blind trust in our pedalling guide was going to end in disaster! Our faith was restored after leaving our car and car keys with a chap who would not only park our car, but look after it until we decided to come back, be it in days, months or years! We walked down a maze of alleyways and stopped at a nondescript door. After the mayhem we’d just experienced, we would have settled for a mat on the floor – but we were surprised>

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by our discovery. The dusty, noisy, frenetic street opened into a long corridor lit gently by Moroccan lamps – an oasis of calm. This led to a beautiful mosaic-tiled courtyard with chairs and tables sitting in the shade of an enormous date palm – heaven. We were to discover many hidden treasures like this throughout the city of Marrakech. After a quick wash in a truly opulent bathroom that I’m sure had seen the likes of Tsars and other royalty, we took off on foot to explore our surroundings. Bumping into other ‘newish’ travellers to the city, we laughed at the dazed looks we encountered, just like the ones that we’d only washed off some hours before. Marrakech is a cultural hub. It is somewhat chaotic, but this is part of the city’s appeal. Taking a day to acclimatise, we decided to head out to the Djemaa el Fna, the main square in Marrakech, where the whole world seemed to gather. Snake charmers, belly dancers, musicians, fortune tellers, snake oil merchants and almost anybody else you could imagine was there touting for business. Stalls full of plump apricots, dates and nuts vied for attention, and spruikers for food stalls tried to entice the passing crowd with “We have the best …. or the freshest …… definitely the tastiest !!” Horses, donkeys and bikes zipped through throngs of people looking to pick up a bargain at the market bazaars. Rows upon rows of tagines, Moroccan slippers, lamps and carpets competed for bargain hunters. It’s a spectacle not to be missed, and armed with an open mind, friendly smile – and an ability to say ‘No, thanks’ – it’s almost impossible not to enjoy time spent here. After the crazy pace of Marrakech, we decided some time out in the country was in order. The road to Ouarzazate must be one of the most beautiful thoroughfares in all of Africa. The Valley of Draa and the Dades Gorge are a photographer’s dream, but a small hire-car’s nightmare. The roads twist and climb towards the heavens and at some point you think you may be heading to meet your maker (in more ways than one) – but the views are truly spectacular. Small, corrugated huts filled with treasures perch on the most precarious of roadside verges, with men holding out spectacular globes of open quartz in vibrant colours to attract the eye of passing travellers. The

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region is obviously famous for its natural quartz, and I truly believed you could get quartz in vibrant red. Unfortunately, the colour started to weep when I was back home in Australia, but still, it made a great memory of a beautiful spot. It is a mantra of the seasoned traveller to ‘enjoy the journey, rather than the destination’ – but in the case of Ouarzazate, we enjoyed both. One of the town’s claims to fame has been to provide a spectacular desert backdrop for many blockbuster movies including Babel, The Prince of Persia, Kingdom of Heaven and The Mummy, to name a few. Movies aside, the countryside is breathtaking. Known as “the door of the desert”, Ouarzazate allows the eye to stretch far to the horizon. The town is mainly inhabited by Berbers, the indigenous peoples of North Africa. Is seems most of the town descends on the square after sunset to drink tea, chat and play. Berber cameleers come in from the desert in distinctive blue robes and turbans, the romance of their nomadic culture still alive. After talking with the Berber tribesmen, we were itching to experience the desert. Early next morning we set off to M’hamid, a town that sits on the edge of the Sahara. The start of the red sand drift reminded me of the first time I saw snow, and how excited I was to play in the dirty clumps before the real snowfields started. Nothing quite prepares you for the beauty and majesty of enormous red sand dunes. The vivid contrast of blue sky against red dune is an incredibly spectacular vision. As harsh as this landscape can be, we found an oasis in the desert. Our accommodation looked like an ancient Kasbah, but was actually a new creation made by a pair of Frenchmen with a serious flair for interior design. We fell in love with the place, even more so when we made friends with their pet camel and donkey. Exploring the desert on foot and by camel, we spent most of our time collecting dates to feed to the animals. Morocco is a country you may not think of as a holiday destination, but rest assured, it is a remarkable place to visit at any age. With amazing culture, friendly people and some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, it is definitely a destination to mark on your “things to do before I die” list. C

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New Owners

Helen & Tamsin

would like to welcome

everybody to the gallery

Art Gallery of Inverloch Fine Art and Art Supplies Displaying a wide range of fine art including paintings, drawings, etchings, jewellery, ceramics, photographs, gift cards, linocut prints, sculpture, pottery and decorative tiles. OPEN Thursday - Monday 10am - 4pm or by appointment. Ph 5674 2145

Helen 0417 954 731

Tamsin 0402 647 915

Located in arcade next to Alex Scott Real Estate 7 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett St Inverloch www.artgalleryofinverloch.com coast 48

The coast inspires freedom of expression and provides endless energy and inspiration. Artists, musicians, dancers, filmmakers, actors, sculptors, potters and writers are all drawn to this coast. And the result is an amazing, creative buzz expressed through galleries, festivals, shows, exhibitions and performances. The diversity of art and culture on offer across this coast is ever-evolving and truly astounding. Enjoy our guide to Art + Culture on our coast and get amongst it!>> coast 49

Anita Stepano Ross “My inspiration is drawn from my observations of life, literature and music. I meditate every day and feel at one with the universe. Awareness and having empathy with nature is of utmost importance to my existence. In my work I strive for originality in concept and perfect balance in composition. I try to re-create a microcosm of the infinite universe in its evolutionary journey. The recent events on our own planet of floods and fire had an impact on me – these, along with global warming and extinction of species, all impact on my creativity. In my new work, I explore very deeply the intricacies and ongoing effects on our spirit and psyche.” 12 Coastal Rise, Kilcunda Call 5678 7346 or 0412 105 841

Archies on the Creek

Arty Farty Sculpture Studio

Archies on the Creek presents the Hunt Foyer as an exhibition space within a busy restaurant and events centre. Monthly exhibitions provide exposure for artists in an elegant and wellpatronised setting. Visitors to the restaurant, café, VR tasting room, the new International Sports Bar and Conference Center all wander through the exhibition space and appreciate the quality artwork on display.

A vibrant, quirky and creative space where classes in sculpture, mosaic and clay are offered to adults and children every Wednesday during the school term. The studio also boasts a small gallery that launches exhibitions and workshops that coincide with festivals and events celebrating the diversity of art from this region. Call Sian 0418519181

Enquiries to the Arts Director Janice Orchard at Janice@archiesonthecreek.com.au

Art Gallery of Inverloch Started by local artists, the passion and creativity shines through in this gallery’s vibrant, friendly atmosphere. Browse an inspiring range of fine art including paintings, drawings, linocuts, photography, jewellery, ceramics, decorative tiles, sculpture and giftcards. The spirit of Inverloch is beautifully captured in many of the artworks on display. Proud new owners Helen and Tamsin will add quality art supplies and a fresh new look. Located in the arcade next to Alex Scott Real Estate. Open Thurs - Mon 10am - 4pm or by appointment Shop 2, 7 A’Beckett St Inverloch Call 5674 2154 or 0417 954 731

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Beach St Garden Gallery Artists Robert Cauzzo and Brigitte Dawson have created an artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oasis at Beach Street Garden Gallery. A stunningly beautiful gallery, the surroundings inspire all the senses, with gorgeous food, flowers, gardens, art, sculpture, murals and mosaics. All things beautiful are available here, including artwork, jewellery and hand-made decor. Visit once and you will definitely be back! 162 Beach St, Frankston Call 9783 7109.

Cheryl Petersen Galleries

Denis A. Hawkins Studio & Gallery Master jeweller and sculptor Denis A. Hawkins has a working studio and gallery nestled in the charming village of Koonwarra. With over 40 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience designing and hand-crafting jewellery, Denis is a master of diamond- and gem-setting, and is commissioned by clients worldwide. If you desire a precious piece that uniquely represents you, visit Denis and choose from his gallery or collaborate on a design.

Producing artwork that oozes positivity is what Cheryl Petersen is all about. Bursting with colour, her gallery situated in Somerville contains over 200 works by herself and other local artists. Workshops are held monthly and the gallery is open 7 days. 8 Edward St Somerville Call 5977 8724

Leongatha - 3 Lyon St Call 5662 3142 Koonwarra - 11 Swan Rd Call 5664 2282

Celia Rosser Gallery Celia Rosser is a world-renowned botanical artist conveying astonishing realism with her fine attention to detail - you will believe her works are living pieces. Taking over 25 years to complete, her 3-volume series The Banksias forms the basis of the work featured in her gallery, with works from other notable artists also on display. Regular musical events also held. Open Friday to Monday 10am to 4pm Promontory Rd, Fish Creek Call 5683 2628

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fiona kennedy coast 52

artist profile

art from the heart words maria reed photos warren reed & fiona kennedy

It’s a mystery why Inverloch artist Fiona Kennedy makes people cry. “I don’t really know why, but it happens quite a lot!” she laughs. People connect with her paintings on such a level that they are often moved to tears. “It’s happened so many times, and it’s such a compliment. To me, that always reconfirms that I’m heading down the right path.”

It was a path she found quite early in life. As a young girl, she took a keen interest in her father’s painting and clay work. “He was always putting his hand to something,” she recalls. Though she never met her grandmother, her paintings also resonated with her. “They were just unbelievable, and I would have to say I was somewhat influenced by them.” Her family nurtured this talent and enrolled her in art and design classes in her final school years. This led to university where she studied drawing and clay work. Clashing with her lecturer, she started to believe that painting was not for her. “Painting has got a lot to do with technique, and at school, technique always seemed to come first. With me, I found it came from my heart and mind first, and then I’d worry about how I was going to paint it.” Her teacher kept pushing her until she thought, “No, I don’t want to be put in a box,” so she took on clay work instead. At university she met a friend (and fellow artist) that she would hang out with over summer at a property at Venus Bay. “We’d do pit-firing there, and catch a dinghy from Venus Bay to Inverloch when our supplies were running low. I didn’t know Inverloch as such, but I was drawn to the water.” Living a conventional life in Melbourne, she says, “I got married and had three kids, which was wonderful – but I decided what I was doing at the time just wasn’t good for me. I had to get back in touch with my artistic side.” And that was the start of her sea change. When she relocated to Inverloch, it was with the intention of setting up a clay-sculpture studio. “But when I moved here I thought, ‘No one is telling me what to do anymore,’ so I picked up a paintbrush to see how I’d go, and I didn’t put it down. That’s how the painting really started in earnest.” Her first painting in Inverloch depicted her breastfeeding her two girls. It’s something very close to her heart, and she reflects, “As a young mother, I struggled feeding my girls, but

when my son Michael came along, he was such a breeze.” Capturing a moment in time, the artist still owns the painting she holds very dear. “I try to paint every day,” she says, “but at the end of the day, I’m just a regular mum with 3 kids, and my artwork is my life - after my kids.” Nature and women are recurring themes in Fiona’s paintings. Her recent move to Kongwak (just a few kilometres inland from Inverloch) provides the perfect inspiration for many of her pieces. “I feel even closer to nature here. Surrounded by trees, it’s just magic.” Just recently, she recalls, “a little wren came to visit me, tapping on my door. He kept appearing every single day, and I just knew he wanted me to paint him.” He ended up in a commissioned piece – a lady surrounded by little birds. “When I showed the client, she was just blown away because she absolutely loves blue wrens!” Painting is a full-time pursuit for Fiona, and to date, the artist has achieved a great deal of personal success. Her work can be found in collections around the world in countries such as France, Germany, England and Japan. She was invited to be part of an AusTrade CD designed to promote Australian artists internationally. “That opened many doors, and a highlight was being invited as one of 14 contemporary artists to exhibit in Toronto, Canada,” she says. Another was meeting a French art-collecting couple, which she describes ‘as one of those uncanny coincidences in life.’ A chance meeting occurred when a friend visited the Inverloch Food and Wine Festival. She laughs, “He is in the habit of bringing home travellers from around the world, and when he met a lovely French couple there, he decided to invite them back for dinner. Well, we all sat down together and they started to tell us that they were looking for a particular artist. When they started to describe the work, my friend Sue laughed and said, ‘You’re sitting right next to her! ’ They were blown away! We now share an amazing relationship and I’ve sent two paintings to France. They’ve both felt really connected to my >

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• Celia Rosser Gallery celebrating three years • Wonderful gifts, great coffee, delicious cake and fresh, light lunches • Stunning gallery space showcasing Celia Rosser’s acclaimed banksia botanical paintings.

Open Friday through Monday 10am to 4pm Promontory Road Fish Creek VIC 3959 Tel. +61 3 5683 2628 www.celiarossergallery.com.au

Anita Stepano Ross • Artists Studio (Dip. Fine Art/Dip. Education) LARGE ABSTRACT . SEASCAPES . DRAWING & PORTRAITS IN CHARCOAL Commissions welcome Viewing by appointment

Tel. 5678 7346 Mob. 0412 105 841 anarte@dcsi.net.au Also represented at Mingara Gallery, Cowes

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artist profile

work, and they came all the way to Inverloch to find me! That just reinforces to me that I am on the right track – that it’s meant to be.” The artist is currently working on a piece that is destined for a competition in New York. Based on the theme of a personal, community or global perspective, Fiona has chosen to think globally. The painting expresses her concern for the environment. “Frogs are a huge indicator of the health of our ecosystems, and I have decided to incorporate a child with frogs flying away, indicating that the state of things isn’t so great. I’ve just started this painting, and in the last two nights, a little frog has been sitting on the window ledge, just staring at me. Again, it’s like a sign to me, when little things like this happen.” Fiona’s work is renowned for its colour and vibrancy. Her medium of choice is oil on canvas, but the artist is starting to introduce other media to her paintings. “I’ve been using sequins for some of my work. I find they add another dimension, and make the work almost 3-dimensional.” A large painting can take up to a month, but she finds the process begins with an idea sketched on a small piece of paper, and then transferred to a larger scale on canvas. “Sometimes I get so excited that I’ll start a sketch and be into a canvas later that same day.

When I’ve got a whole day to paint, I’ll just slip into the zone and the rest of the world ceases to exist.” A womanly figure often appears in her paintings and she’s often asked if that woman is her. “It’s not. I have five sisters and two beautiful daughters and it’s more a depiction of a quintessential Australian woman. The artist insists that her paintings can be quite symbolic, and people and animals take on different meaning. “I did a painting of a beautiful woman standing in the window looking out at her children who were little flying birds, and her husband was a peacock.” Is she suggesting that men are primping peacocks? “Not at all! Peacocks were symbolic in old Egypt where they were the protectors of royalty, so I used him as a protector. He has a really strong presence, and he just loves his family. When you look at this piece you can just tell that that is what he is doing. He’s protecting his wife and his brood - it’s a beautiful thing. When I explained this to him he was very proud.” The artist exhibits regularly, but is not attached to one particular gallery. “I’m driven by a passion to create art, and for me, it’s all about the art!” If you would like to see more of Fiona’s work, log onto www.fionakennedy.com. C

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g estudio c kgallery o

monthly exhibitions of contemporary artwork | art materials | picture framing | workshops

15 Falls Road Fish Creek

email: framing@geckostudiogallery.com.au www.geckostudiogallery.com.au

03 5683 2481 0423 721 593 0421 209 878

opening times thurs-mon 10am-5pm

Heather

Kerry Spokes & Michael Lester

Fahnle

MOSAIC ARTIST

M O S A I C S B Y T H E B AY Come spend a creative day. Learn the art of mosaic. Not creative? No problem, you will be guided from design to completion, every step of the way! It’s meditative and satisfying. Enjoy your day in my quiet garden studio at Ventnor. All materials and lunch supplied.

www. fahnle.com.au email. heather@fahnle.com.au

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mob. 0417 562 625

Gecko Studio Gallery With monthly exhibitions of contemporary artists and a stockroom with works from prior shows, Gecko Studio Gallery also offers a beautiful collection of jewellery, ceramics and selected pieces by local artists. Gecko offers a high quality picture-framing service, a comprehensive range of art materials and regular art workshops. 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Call 5683 2481

Earth Art Gallery After attaining a degree in Fine Art in South Africa, (majoring in painting and ceramics), Iana and Mark emigrated to Australia. It was in Melbourne that Iana developed her unique style of ceramic art. Today Mark and and Iana are makers of fine decorative ceramics and kiln fired glass. The individual pieces of art are found around Australia, overseas and now can be found at Earth Art Gallery Inverloch. The Gallery is a feast of color and texture for the eyes. 4 Williams St, Inverloch Call 5674 1256

The Goldsmithís Gallery Located in San Remo, this gallery showcases the work of some of Australia’s most ambitious and respected jewellers, goldsmiths, makers and designers as well as members of the Gold & Silversmiths’ Guild of Australia. By purchasing their work you assist artists to make a livelihood from their craft, and nourish Australia’s craft and design culture for future generations. There is also a fully-equipped studio behind the gallery where classes in a variety of jewellery methods are offered each month. The weekend and weekday workshops include courses in areas such as Lamp Worked Glass Beads, Bead and Pearl Threading, Beginners and Advanced Jewellery Skills, and PMC Clay. Shop 3, Bridgeview Arcade, Marine Pde, San Remo Call 5678 5788

Gooseneck Pottery Award-winning potter Robert Barron created Gooseneck Pottery after learning techniques from craftsmen all over the globe. Creating his own style of hand-thrown, wood-fired stoneware, Robert also built one of Australia’s largest wood-fired kilns that is fired only twice a year. Visitors are welcome to inspect the kiln and studio. 60 Kardella – Fairbank Rd, Kardella via Korumburra Call 5655 2405

Goat Island Gallery One of the coast’s newest galleries, Goat Island features contemporary mixed-media art by Frank Schooneveldt and others. Frank’s work has developed over 30 years and has an intense energy that emphasises colour, shape and form. 18 Boundary Road, Wonthaggi Call 5672 5951

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a wondrous place where art + culture meet 1

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading Sculpture Park and Gallery set in 16 hectares of serene bushland, lakes and landscaped gardens in Langwarrin, 4 kms east of Frankston on the Mornington Peninsula. Entry by gold coin donation. ADDRESS : 390 McClelland Drive Langwarrin, Victoria 3910 Australia.

PHONE : +61 3 9789 1671 FAX : +61 3 9789 1610

OPENING HOURS : Tues to Sun : 10am - 5pm Closed on Mondays and some Public Holidays.

McCLELLAND GALLERY CAFE : Tues to Sun : 10am - 4:30pm Book for a meal or function on +61 3 9789 1671

info@mcclellandgallery.com www.mcclellandgallery.com

Artwork Key: 1. Roman Liebach Wharf spears 2005; 2. Lisa Roet White ape 2005; 3. John Kelly Alien 2006; 4. Teisutis Zikaras Untitled (GPO) 1964; 5. Simeon Nelson Pollinator phenotype 2001 (detail); 6. Phil Price Grace 2007

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Island Influence Gallery View works by Phillip Island based artists Josephine Allen & Russell Kent. Their years on the coast have provided a myriad of inspiration for their unique works, each with a distinct style. Sales by appointment. Call 5956 8594.

John Mustaers & Opusjoop Studio 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of John’s professional artistic career, which includes 30 solo exhibitions in Australia and Europe. He is represented in regional galleries and private collections in Australia and around the world. Visit his new ‘Opusjoop Studio’. 9 Churchill Crescent, Inverloch Call 0402 392 799.

Mingara Gallery Noelle Buckley is the woman behind Mingara Gallery: she presents a stylistically varied selection of Australian contemporary art of the highest calibre, with ever-changing exhibitions of paintings, glass, sculpture, ceramics and jewellery. Mingara also exhibits fine Aboriginal works. The gallery represents talented local and regional artists including Andrew Wood, Carole Foster, Andrew Southall, Greg Jorgenson, Jan Bodaan, Luc Prisco, Natasha Novak, Mary Hennekam, Sue Gill and Noelle Buckley. All painters, sculptors and ceramicists ready to exhibit are invited to contact the gallery. Cnr Thompson Ave & Ventnor Rd Cowes Call 5952 3722 Open each day 10am – 5pm. Closed Wednesdays.

McClelland Gallery & Sculpture Park An inspiring mixture of art and nature, this open-air gallery is a truly magical experience. Stroll amongst 16 hectares of native bush and landscaped gardens and enjoy an exhibition of over seventy sculptures from Australia’s premier artists. There are also three indoor exhibition spaces housing temporary exhibitions, a gift-shop filled with quality art treasures and books, and a cafe overlooking the gardens. Entry by gold coin donation. 360-390 McClelland Drive Langwarrin Call 9789 1671

Oak Hil Gallery This historic 19th century Italianate farmhouse has been converted into a cleverly-designed community arts gallery with working artist studios. Passionate volunteers oversee innovative monthly exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art in all mediums and genres. Oak Hill is an excellent gallery for discovering new and emerging artists.

100 Mornington – Tyabb Rd Mornington Call 5973 4299

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art & culture feature

Proudly supporting Art & Culture Stay a little longer and discover Frankston’s hidden Gems.. …stay with Quest

Arts to see, Arts to do … there’s always something going on at Frankston Arts Centre

Theatre Gallery Workshops

Quest Frankston is a supporting partner of the Frankston Arts Centre providing superior accommodation to the performing artists and visitors. Featuring 58 stylishly appointed apartments conveniently located just a 5 minute walk to restaurants, entertainment, shopping and the beach. Contact Karen of Quest Frankston for special Coast Magazine ‘Mates Rates’ for visiting friends and family, special function accommodation; or just a night away!

WIN 2 x tickets to any 2011 FAC presented performance*. Email your contact details to competition@frankston.vic.gov.au enter “Coast” in subject line or mail to Coast Competition, Frankston Arts Centre, PO Box 490, Frankston, VIC 3199

WIN overnight accommodation for 2* with Quest Frankston including a ‘Pop Bubble and Spoil’ package! Email your contact details to kwatson@questapartments.com.au enter “Coast” in subject line or mail to Coast Competition, Quest Frankston 377 Nepean Highway, Frankston, VIC 3199

*Some exclusions apply. Competition ends – 30/5/11 winner notified by: 1/6/11

*Some conditions may apply. Competition ends – 30/5/11 winner notified by: 1/6/11

www.questfrankston.com.au or call 03 8796 1000

www.artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au 03 9784 1060

Take home an extraordinary gift from the Frankston Visitor Information Centre...

SandSculpting Australia –Creepy Crawlies Exhibition

WIN! A local produce hamper to the value of $100. Email your contact details to tourism@frankston.vic.gov.au enter “Coast” in subject line or mail to Coast Competition, Frankston Visitor information Centre, PO Box 490, Frankston, VIC 3199 Competition ends – 30/5/11 winner notified by: 1/6/11 Before you travel find out what there is to see and do in Frankston by visiting our new look website www.visitfrankston.com.

Pier Promenade, Frankston Waterfront (Melway Ref: 100A A9)

Open 9:00am to 5:00pm (7 days a week)

tourism@frankston.vic.gov.au or call 1300 322 842 coast 60

Open daily through to April 25, 2011. The Frankston Waterfront has be transformed by a team of talented Australian and International sand sculptors who have created a weird and wonderful world of Creepy Crawlies from 4500 tonnes of sand. From beetles, bugs and butterflies, to spiders, slugs and scorpions, the tiny creatures that inhabit our lives have be magnified and amplified in giant sand sculptures. Present this ad at the ticket box and receive a complimentary program with entry.

Frankston Waterfront, Nepean Highway, Frankston Mel Ref 100A B8 1300 322 842 admin@sandstormevents.com.au www.sandstormevents.com.au

Leave the hustle and bustle

behind. Relax and enjoy great

coffee, all day breakfast and

delicious restaurant-style meals while browsing the gallery gift

shop and soon to be completed Japanese and Roman gardens.

Open 7 days from 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm

162 Beach Street, Frankston T: 9783 7109 www.beachstgallery.com/cafe

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words katie cincotta photos warren reed

It all began with a kaleidoscope: four-year-old Noelle Buckley was peering intently into the spinning vortex of colour, mesmerised by the optical tube of mirrors. “I was so thrilled and excited by looking into that kaleidoscope – such a strange thing with all its incredible shapes and patterns – and I never recovered from it. I was besotted.” After her grandfather’s pottery studio in Korumburra burnt down, the family moved to Wonthaggi, and began business in the more reliable area of retail trade. “My father was a collector of fine art and used to bring home lovely pieces of sculpture, he was clever with his hands, too. He would make lovely leather satchels for us. But he didn’t believe art was a good business to be in. And he was probably right,” laughs Noelle, director of Phillip Island’s Mingara Gallery (‘Mingara’ means ‘good spirit that controls the clouds’). “ Despite the family’s resistance to acknowledging art as a serious career path, the young Noelle was tutored by famous watercolourist Max Middleton, painter George Moore, and Ronald Millar, painter and critic. Later, her formal training included a fine arts degree at Monash University, graduating with a distinction in Painting. Her sister Gayle Russell was on the same path, eventually settling in Western Australia after earning a reputation as one of the country’s premier wildlife artists.

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Noelle married and moved away to Fish Creek and raised two children on a cattle property, with the rigours of family life on the farm consuming most of her energy. By the time her children had grown the marriage had ended, and, undecided about what career path to take, Noelle sought refuge in Paris and Rome, in a scenario reminiscent of Elizabeth Gilbert’s much-loved memoir, ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. “It was my first time in Europe. I made some friends in Milan and worked in a discotheque there for a while – that was great fun. I fell in love with Italy and, at that time,really didn’t feel like coming home. All I had was a little house and I was almost out of money, and I was tempted to sell the house to keep travelling. Thankfully, commonsense prevailed!” When she finally came home, Noelle returned to university to study ceramics, and trained to be an art teacher whilst working part- time. Although she was thrilled to have explored the rich art and culture of Europe, her time away from Australia had confirmed her affection and respect for indigenous art. “I love the skill and polish of European artists, but my real interest has always been with the spiritual feelings that Aboriginal artists convey. Their art is deeply embedded in their land and culture – it’s how they feel about their world put on canvas – and that impresses me more than anything. I always try to make a connection to my surroundings, like they do.”

artist profile

Noelle Buckley has gained a reputation as a champion of the arts at her gallery in Cowes. Behind the promoter is a life-long love of art and more than a little talent of her own, though few get a chance to see it …

In Noelle’s personal art collection there is a large piece by Minnie Pwerle, the award-winning Aboriginal artist from the Utopia Station region of the Northern Territory, who passed away at the age of 86 just months after Noelle bought the painting. “The agents came down and brought in this Minnie Pwerle. I took one look at it and I just loved it. I hung it in the gallery and I kept going back to it. So I bought it. It is a joy to see the painting every day”. The most valuable work sold at Mingara Gallery was a piece by the highly-regarded Aboriginal artist Judy Watson Napangardi, which sold for more than $20,000. “It’s a real collector’s piece and may be valued at close to $100,000 one day. I am expecting a new collection of high-quality Indigenous work to arrive later this month.” As both an artist and a businesswoman, Noelle has a finely balanced perspective on art’s ability to feed both the soul and the wallet. “My aim is to present good quality art that will last the distance. I want people to feel confident that what they’ve purchased comes from an artist who is dedicated to what they’re doing, and that as well as being a source of pleasure, it’s an important piece of artwork that will retain and build its value.”

Eat, pray, love, paint

As we wander the polished concrete floors of the gallery, the air perfumed by sweet cinnamon sticks , Noelle talks to me about the local artists on display, including abstract expressionist painter Sue>

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MINGARA GALLERY Phone 03 5952 3722 242 Thompson Avenue Cowes 3922 Phillip Island Australia www.mingaragallery.com.au | noelle@mingaragallery.com.au

Paintings Indigenous Art Jewellery Sculpture Gifts

Artisan and seller of Traditional & Contemporary Jewellery

LEONGATHA STUDIO & SHOWROOM 3 Lyon Street, Leongatha | Tel. (03) 5662 3142 www.denisahawkins.com.au | denisa10@bigpond.com

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KOONWARRA STUDIO & GALLERY 11 Swan Road, Koonwarra Village | Tel. (03) 5664 2282

artist profile

Gill, whose huge, bold paintings often appear in the front window, drawing attention for their rich vivid colours and spontaneous surface markings. Outside in the gallery’s native gardens, we muse over outdoor sculptures in recycled steel and timber by sculptor Laurie Collins. Like Leunig in 3D, they’re often comical interpretations of childhood memories. “He was a trade teacher, and when he retired he started doing his own thing. His works are a lot of fun and he writes a nice little explanation for each of them. He’s very clever - a real character.” Joining us on the walk-through is Noelle’s cat Matilda – a British Blue. With her lilac tortoiseshell coat and her spectacular amber eyes, she is the perfect breed of feline for an artist. “It’s the first time I’ve had a cat. I don’t know much about handling them, but we are getting used to each other. When I’m painting in the studio she’ll come in and sit down and watch me.” Matilda is the only one allowed entry. Not even this nosy journalist could manage an invite to her studio especially with unfinished paintings laid bare. “Not even a glimpse?” I press. “Ooh, no,” says Noelle. “Sorry, too private at this stage!” Like many artists, the gallery director is sensitive and reverential about the artistic process, unwilling for anything to disturb a piece in progress until it has taken its full form. Despite being a realist painter for many years, Noelle describes herself

now as an abstract artist. “I wanted to break out of realism, but it was the hardest thing. With abstraction, you have to use your imagination and your emotions, and you have to remember everything you’ve ever been taught about art – all the fundamentals like composition, mark-making and colour theory. I find it a great challenge and it is really satisfying when the painting resolves itself and works! Now that I’ve made the shift to abstraction, I can’t not do it.” Noelle recently sold ‘Journey’, a huge abstract painting of the Cowes jetty. After working on it for 6 months, she found the piece difficult to price. “My son’s an accountant, and he said, ‘Just work out your hourly rate’. That’s all right if you’re an electrician or a plumber, but you can’t take that approach if you’re an artist.” As well as established artists, Mingara Gallery seeks to promote and encourage emerging and graduate students. Noelle’s granddaughter Hannah, a student at Newhaven College, assists in the Gallery on weekends. Hannah is a budding photographer and will hold an exhibition of her photography towards the end of the year. With a fourth generation creative spirit in the family, it seems art is definitely in the blood of this local clan. Acknowledging the island’s breathtaking natural environment, Noelle feels the community at large is becoming increasingly connected to the artistic expression of that beauty. “I think the community is evolving, and starting to appreciate art. And it would have to come. The natural beauty of Phillip Island – that is its spirit.” C

With a fourth generation of creative spirit in the family, it seems art is definitely in the blood of this local clan. coast 65

84 Whitelaw St Meeniyan 3956 Mon-Fri 10-4, Sat-Sun 11-5, Closed Tue Ph. (03) 5664 0101 www.meeniyanartgallery.org.au

Exhibtions 15 April - 26 May DIFFERENT VIEWS | Helen Masin & Pauline Bailey 28 May - 23 June THE NATURE OF DAVID | David Alldridge

Workshops 27 March Fishtrap Basketry with Pat Dale 10 April Polychromatic printmaking with Susan Hall 7 May Random Weave Basketry with Margaret Balfe 15 May Pauline Bailey

Weave a rustic twig basket with Pat Dale

Helen Masin

21 May How to draw quick landscapes with Mandy Gunn 28 & 29 May Beginners Beadmaking with Pauline Delaney www.paulinedelaney.com 5 June Mono printing with Susan Hall

David Alldridge

161 Main Street, Mornington VIC 3931 ph. 03 5973 6651 Opening Hours Monday - Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

www.mbantua.com.au

161 Main Street, Mornington VIC 3931 Opening Hours Monday - Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

ph. 03 5973 6651

www.mbantua.com.au mbantua_v6.indd coast 66

5/03/11 9:56 PM

Mbantua Gallery Mbantua Gallery has been specializing in aboriginal art from Utopia in Central Australia for 25 years. Based in Alice Springs and enjoying a long-standing connection with the artists, their art and their country, Mbantua has a new gallery in Main St, Mornington, under the direction of experienced manager, Rozsika Hayes-Marshall. 161 Main St. Mornington Call 5973 6651  www.mbantua.com.au

Stephen Jensen from the exhibition “A Model Life” showing at MAG Feb 26 - Mar 24.

Meeniyan Art Gallery Meeniyan Art Gallery is a contemporary art space in the heart of scenic Gippsland. The Main Gallery hosts monthly exhibitions showcasing work by artists from the area and other regions. Our Access Gallery provides an affordable exhibiting opportunity for hobby artists and students. The Gallery shop sells original work by local artisans and artists in a wide range of techniques. You can hire a printing studio, join our workshops, rent the artwork from our Art Library or talk to our friendly volunteers about the vibrant art scene of which we are part. 84 Whitelaw St Meeniyan Call 5664 0101 - Closed Tuesdays

A hidden treasure in central Cowes with access via Cafe Lugano, this is an intimate and quirky art space showcasing local artists. 71 Thompson Avenue, Cowes Call 5952 5636 or 0427 857 233

Mosaics By The Bay Come and spend a creative day learning the art of mosaic in Heather’s quiet garden studio at Ventnor. Not creative? No problem: you will be guided every step of the way from design to completion. It’s meditative, satisfying and enjoyable, and a great day to share with a friend. All materials and lunch supplied. Call. 0417 562 625 heather@fahnle.com.au

Leongatha Art & Craft Gallery With a permanent display of contemporary and traditional art and craft for sale, the gallery features artists throughout the year in an ever-changing display. Browse fine art, woodwork, jewellery, pyrographic artwork, basketry, textiles including homespun knitting and silk painting, original handmade cards and a fine selection of small gift items. This small community venue is staffed by members and volunteers. Cnr Michael Place and Mc Cartin St Leongatha Call 5662 5370

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Robert Barron, Gooseneck Pottery, 60 Kardella - Fairbank Rd. Kardella. (via Korumburra) 3951 (03) 5655 2405 www.gooseneckpottery.com.au

Leongatha Art and Craft Gallery Quality local Art & Craft Changing Exhibitions Cnr Michael Place and Mc Cartin St Leongatha - Opposite the Post Office Closed; Sunday, Tuesday. Open; Sat 10am-2pm. Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-4pm or when the sign is out. Gallery; 03 56625370. President ; 56622029. www.visitpromcountry.com.au

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Shearwater Studios

Warren Reed Photography

Contemporary, colourful oil paintings by Diana Bannister. Open most weekends. Best to ring mobile to confirm.

Professional photographer Warren Reed examines light and beauty through the eye of a lens. For exquisite limited edition archival photographs contact Warren on 0414 753 739. Look out for his exhibition at Archies on the Creek in South Gippsland in September this year.

83 Lantana Road, Cape Woolamai Call 0408 341 898

Sandy Point Art Gallery Living beside a magnificent surf beach, with Wilsons Prom as backdrop, and koalas, birds and flowers in the Gallery garden, artist Mary Shaw is inspired by the beautiful natural environment. Her new Art Gallery and working studio at Sandy Point presents her talented works. Visitors are welcome to linger, see the impressive display of quality art or just enjoy the garden. Open 7 days, but check during winter. 33 Beach Parade, Sandy Point. Call 5684 1094.

Frankston City Arts City Frankston City is fast becoming the arts and cultural precinct of the south east as the gateway to the Mornington Peninsula. The City offers the ultimate cultural experience with strong historical heritage as well as every genre of artistic expression. It’s so rich, there is a fascinating cultural drive you can take stretching 22 kilometres from the waterfront to the hinterland and back. Make the Frankston Visitor Information Centre your first point of call to pick up your touring or local event information when travelling to Frankston City. www.visitfrankston.com.

Frankston Arts Centre

One of Australia’s largest arts facilities this centre provides a diverse program of theatre and arts. Its 800 seat theatre attracts renowned Australian and international performers. Many creative 2D and 3D art works can be seen in its three gallery spaces and unique glass fronted arts cube – Cube 37 – designed to project innovative digital art after dark.

Sandsculpting

The popular Sand Sculpting Australia’s exhibition from Boxing Day to Anzac Day each year attracts visitors from all over the world. This year amazing creepy crawlies take shape out of the sand, it is easy to see why this unique exhibition shouldn’t be missed. Open every day 10:00am, located on Frankston’s Waterfront.

www.artscente.frankston.vic.gov.au

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OAK HILL COMMUNITY GALLERY Oak Hill Community Arts Co-operative is a not-for-profit organization run by volunteers. We offer the public and art lovers alike the opportunity to appreciate a wide variety of styles from the traditional to contemporary, the conventional to the absurd. The gallery exhibits works by professional and up-andcoming artists with exhibitions held on a monthly basis. Our aim is to encourage and host new moves of art while continuing to embrace and respect the ancestry of art. A charming tree-lined country path meanders through the expansive grounds of Oak Hill and the rose gardens, past the working artist studios and onto the MPRG - Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. Well worth a visit.

Oak Hill Gallery, on the Civic Reserve adjacent to The Mornington Regional Art Gallery & the Mornington Rose Garden. 100 Mornington Tyabb Rd, Mornington . www.oakhillgallery.com.au . ph 03 5973 4299

All Welcome open Tuesday-Sunday inclusive from 11am-4pm email. art@oakhillgallery.com.au

CHERYL PETERSEN GALLERIES

Over 200 Artworks on display - Painting Lessons

Available for Commission Work Shop 7/8 Edward St Somerville

cheryl.petersen@bigpond.com

5977 8724

0408 833 260

www.cherylpetersengalleries.com

Open 7 days Mon 9:30am-9pm Tues, Wed, Fri 9:30am-6pm Thurs 9:30am-9pm

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Sat & Sun 9â&#x20AC;&#x2122;30am-5pm

Art & Culture Events Across Our Coast Most galleries have regular exhibitions and special events. Refer to their ads for details! Also see our Arts and Events Guide on p. 16

Bass Coast Arts An Arts and Culture Plan and a Strategy for Public Art are part of Bass Coast Shire Council’s commitment to supporting our Arts Community. The ARTS - Arts Round The Shire brochure promotes the many aspects of the arts in Bass Coast. Council supports the Creative Gippsland Be Inspired Arts Festival in May 2011. Visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/leisure/arts.

Different Views at MAG Apr 16 - May 26 This special exhibition is juxtaposition of aerial landscapes by Helen Masin and street scenes by Pauline Bailey. Meeniyan Art Gallery, p. 66.

earth art studio interior ceramic design

4 Williams St

Inverloch 5674 1256

• Gallery • Gifts • Clothing • Jewellery • Handbags • Accessories earth art studio_v23a.indd 1

6/03/11 10:35 PM

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ALL FIRED UP! To be held at -

You are invited to attend a National Glass & Enamel Exhibition Official opening on the 7th May at 3pm -closes on the 29th of May

ADINA WATCHES

now in stock

Glass & Enamel Workshops featuring Tutors Jenny Gore O.A. – Painting with Enamels, Jane Power- Lampworked Beads, Tracey Minster – Enamelling on Precious Metal Clay See website for dates – www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au Unique Jewellery | Watches | Repairs | Classes | Rethreading | Commissions Shop 3 - Bridgeview Arcade San Remo phone. 5678 5788

Regular Classes & Exhibitions visit:

www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

Mirboo North – Celebrating the Arts Mother’s Day weekend – 6th , 7th and 8th of May 2011

Art Show:

Arty Gras:

Friday 6th: 30th Anniversary of the Mirboo North Art Show Location: Mirboo North Shire Hall Opening Night – 7.30pm – 11pm Dress formal. Tickets $20 available at the door Saturday 7th: Art Show 12noon – 5pm. Entry fee $3 Sunday 8th: Art Show 10am – 3.30pm. Entry fee $3 Free afternoon tea 2.00pm with live Music

Saturday 7th: Food & Craft market Music performances at several locations Street Parade @ 11am Organised Bushwalks Koala Corner Arty exhibitions at various locations Youth and Children’s Activities “Cabararty” Cabaret Show featuring Danny Burton, 8pm at the Grand Ridge Brewery

http://www.mirboonorthartshow.com.au/ coast 72

Sunday 8th: Mother’s Day Lunch at the Grand Ridge Brewery Arty exhibitions at various locations Music performance at Shire Hall marquee Evening Film Festival at the Grand Ridge Brewery

http://mirboonorth.vic.au/artygras

Open mind to art

words eleanor mckay photo christina prochazka Artists: Maureen Loughran (L) & John Adam (R) with Shire arts officer Josephine Kent

promotional feature

Sit in on a coffee catch-up with local artists John Adam and Maureen Loughran and you get a real insight into the life of an artist, replete with quotes and anecdotes covering Picasso’s studio to Melbourne Grammar art classes. There is no mistaking the passion these two have for their craft and for the local arts community. John and Maureen are both four-time winners of the Bass Coast Art Acquisitive Prize and are fervent supporters of its 2011 revamp. Now known as the Bass Coast Art Acquisition Program, the new structure is designed to bring bigger benefits to the artists and increase support for local arts shows. Both John and Maureen agree that the increased prize money and invitation to exhibit is likely to attract more artists than the old Acquisitive Prize.

Five local groups have registered to be part of the 2011 program: Artists’ Society of Phillip Island, San Remo Art & Photographic Exhibition, Save The Children’s Fund Art Show, Bass Coast Artists’ Society Easter Exhibition and Corinella and District Community Centre Art Show. For more details on how to support these exhibitions and the Art Acquisition Program, visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au or contact Arts Officer, Josephine Kent, on 1300 BCOAST (226 278).

“The program offers worthwhile prize money and will attract artists that don’t usually enter local art shows,” says John.

“Everybody wins if you come to an exhibition,” says Maureen. “You are learning and supporting the artists.”

“There are artists down here who never show their work locally. Hopefully they will come out of the woodwork. Local art shows are really important for the community. This will absolutely benefit local shows and keep the overall standard improving.” Maureen agrees: “I would hope this helps local shows attract better artwork. All artists want to improve and exhibiting is an important part of that. An opportunity to exhibit brings you into the community and you get to bounce ideas off other artists. Being an artist can be very solitary and you need that network.” Maureen and John believe artists and audiences benefit from exhibitions and encourage everyone to come and support the local arts shows.

Bass Coast Art Acquisition Program • Not-for-proﬁt community arts shows register for the program • Judges at each show select an artist to be part of the Acquisitive Art Exhibition in September • Artist is invited to exhibit three to four works in the Exhibition

“I think the input of the audience is really important,” says John. “I love asking people what they think. They see things in my work that I never thought of.”

• Independent panel selects winning work, which will be added to the Bass Coast Acquisitive Art Collection.

“When I go to an art exhibition, I don’t look at everything or I get visual indigestion. Go into an exhibition with an open mind. You might see one or two things that you really like to look at.”

• All other exhibiting artists receive $1000

• Artist is awarded $5000 • Works at the exhibition to be sold

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promotional feature

securing phillip island’s water future Phillip Island’s main water supply suspends beneath the San Remo Bridge. What if something happened to the pipeline or the bridge? Westernport Water will soon start work on an under-channel pipeline to secure supply. Over 3.5 million visitors flock to Phillip Island each year. Its permanent population of 8000 swells to over 50,000 during the summer months and during major events. Phillip Island’s existing water services comprise a 400mm diameter steel pipeline and 375mm hobas pipeline both of which are suspended beneath the San Remo Bridge. The steel main is about 30 years old and the hobas pipeline is 19 years old. Failure of these pipes or damage to the bridge would effectively and immediately isolate Phillip Island from its drinking water supply source. Westernport Water has been progressing a project to increase reliability of the water supply infrastructure to Phillip Island. In December 2010 Westernport Water announced that contracts had been awarded to COE Drilling for the design, engineering and construction of an under channel water pipeline between San Remo and Newhaven. Westernport Water Managing Director, Mr. Jackson indicated “These works were identified as a priority considering the age of existing water mains and critical importance of supply to Phillip Island. Providing an alternative independent drinking water supply main from San Remo to Phillip Island, under the channel using horizontal directional drilling proved to be the most reliable option.” Following consultation with the San Remo Foreshore Committee, Bass Coast Shire Council and Westernport Water’s Community Consultative Panel the commencement of works for the under channel pipeline have been scheduled for April 2011 to avoid disruption to visitors and important local events.

words & photos geoff russell

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COE Drilling Pty Ltd, one of Australia’s leaders in engineered and constructed projects by horizontal directional drilling, estimates the project to be completed by the end of July 2011.

How the Project Will Work… The project will involve installation of 450mm diameter HDPE (PE100) water main from San Remo to Newhaven under the eastern channel of the Westernport Bay. The pipeline will be installed by horizontal directional drilling (HDD) method and the length of the bore will be 864m between the entry and exit points. The pipe will be installed in the bored tunnel which is approximately 10m below the sea bed. The project activities will be within 200m of the highwater mark and no permanent structures will be sitting above ground. During the construction, entry and exit pits will be excavated on the Newhaven side and San Remo side respectively. On completion, these areas will be backfilled and reinstated to the original condition. Works on the San Remo side will be limited to a 15 metre x 25 metre area on the public reserve. The Newhaven site will be on the Council reserve between Old Bridge Road and Phillip Island Tourist Road. All sites will be fully fenced and secured during the construction and Westernport Water does not anticipate any disruption to the public. Residents around the sites will be fully informed prior to construction commencement. C

Newhaven

San Remo

proposed under channel pipeline www.westernportwater.com.au

What is Horizontal Directional Drilling? Step 1: Pilot hole A small diameter pilot hole is drilled under directional control to a predetermined drilling profile using either a jetting bit or a mud motor attached to a drill string. Once the Drill Bit breaks through ground at the HDD Exit the Pilot Hole Operation is complete.

Step 2: Reaming After completion of the Pilot Hole, the drilled hole is enlarged to suit the product pipe or conduit to be installed. Depending on the geotechnical conditions several passes may be required each progressively enlarging the hole to the required diameter.

Step 3: Pullback After completion of the Reaming Operations a swivel and barrel reamer are placed in between the Product Pipeline and the drill string. The Drill rig pulling on the drill string pulls the product pipeline or conduit into the borehole.

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Cosmopolitan village life or miles of secluded beaches – the choice is yours on South Gippsland’s coast.

Just 20 kilometres from each other by road, Inverloch and Venus Bay are worlds apart. As the crow flies, it’s not that far between the bustling seaside village of Inverloch and the township of Venus Bay - straight across Anderson Inlet, over the scrubland of Port Smythe and you’re there. The journey by road is a little longer - about 25 kilometres. With such relatively close proximity, the difference between the two in terms of lifestyle is quite amazing, but one thing they definitely have in common is that they are well worth a visit!

Inverloch The town of Inverloch is proudly claimed by Bass Coast Shire Council and has a long history dating back to the days when coal was transported from its shores. Today, visitors flock to the town each summer to join the 4000 or so locals.

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The main village is bustling with cafes, restaurants, galleries, boutiques, healing centres, estate agencies, fishing and surfing stores – Inverloch even has its own radio station, 3MFM. A’Beckett Street is the main thoroughfare, but don’t forget to explore the arcades and side streets. The town’s outskirts are burgeoning with new houses and you should be sure to check out the shops and outlets around Cashin Street, including the iconic Southern Bazaar. There are many events on Inverloch’s calendar, including the famous annual Jazz Festival in March and the Food & Wine Festival also in March each year. A monthly Farmers’ Market is held in The Glade, a grassed area on the foreshore where you can pick up the freshest Gippsland produce. Stop in at the flash new Visitor Information Centre on A’Beckett St and ask the local experts about all aspects of the town and beyond.

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Inverloch & Venus Bay The Bunurong Environment Centre, right next to the Glade, is worth a wander through. This volunteer-run centre has stacks of info about the natural wonders of Inverloch and surrounds, including the annual “Dinosaur Dreaming’ archaeological dig held at Inverloch’s Flat Rocks each summer. You’ll find a wide range of accommodation available, from resorts to motels, B&Bs, holiday houses, apartments, caravan parks and camping grounds. You can leave the car behind and stroll or ride along the network of shared walking paths along Inverloch’s foreshore. Bass Coast Shire Council has plans to extend these through the Glade Picnic Ground: this new path will connect to the existing paths and no doubt be well used by residents and visitors alike. There are also future plans to further extend the paths to the new Surf Lifesaving Club along Surf Parade.

For beach life, you can choose the sheltered inlet, popular for swimming, boating, fishing and kite surfing, walking and relaxing. A little further along, Lifesavers offer a patrolled surf beach during summer holidays and some weekends, so be sure to swim between the flags. The Club is proud of its brand-new clubhouse with training room, first aid room, accommodation, patrol room and kiosk. It’s quite a step up from the three shipping containers that served as their clubrooms in the past! Anderson Inlet opens up to mighty Bass Strait and reveals a rugged coastline carved over eons by pounding waves. Spectacular rock formations such as Eagle’s Nest line the shore and can be accessed via the 14 kilometre Bunurong Coastal Drive. Stop in at the RACV Resort for a coffee and to take in the view.>

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www.qod.com.au

5 Lindsey Close Inverloch

Now Taking Registrations of Interest for Precinct 3 independent living for 55 & over!! Your tree-change by the sea

Imagine... b tree side, c

Prestigious Lifestyle Resort just opposite the beach! Self-contained coastal community in a pristine setting with everything at your doorstep: Catering for short term holiday accommodation, permanent living & retirement, surrounded by coastal landscaped gardens & wetlands with outdoor & indoor leisure facilities including walking tracks, tennis court. • Health and Wellness Centre (qualiﬁed masseurs, beauticians & hairdressers) • Spa • Steam Room • Fully Equipped Gymnasium (qualiﬁed international trainers) • Heated Indoor & Outdoor Pools • Gold Class Cinema • Conference facilities

For more information Call 5674 6290 or

Imagine living life tree side, countrysid

with Metricon, building award winning

So take a drive and discover the wond email: enquiries@broadbeachinverloch.com.au Metricon can make it a reality.

The creation of well-known restaurateurs Greg and Sue Roylance. Slow cooked Asian curries, Contemporary Australian fare, Indoor & alfresco dining, Coffee & cake all day. Why Metricon is Fully licensed. Victoria’s leading home builder

Opportunities now exist for:

Holiday investment – get in quick and save on stamp duty & Independent Retirement living Visit a display centre Modern, spacious designs, View the floor plans today. Pristine setting just minutes from the beach in your chosen dream location 1300 METRICON metricon.com.au

Bai Vic

Tra Vic

Yar Vic

Gee Gip Inv Wa

R1654 Coast Mag_Branding_FP_dec.indd 1

This fully licensed restaurant and café provides fine dining and friendly service for all. Available for private & corporate functions for enquiries & reservations call: 5674 1199 coast 78

www.broadbeachinverloch.com.au

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... beachside, e, countryside

untryside or beachside. Well it’s all within reach

winning homes throughout regional Victoria.

he wonderful homes on offer. Whatever your dream,

inverloch at a glance… Soho

3MFM – Inverloch’s very own radio station TREE SIDE

sending music, news and community information awaits you at Metricon’s Inverloch office, image k. COUNTRYSIDE throughBEACHSIDE the air waves. Tune in at 88.1, 89.1 or 89.5 pg.129 on your FM dial or listen online at www.3mfm. com.au RACV Resort Inverloch – This award-winning resort has accommodation from luxury to Broadbeach Inverloch – great investment camping. Stop in for a coffee or meal and enjoy opportunities exist to realise your dream of living spectacular ocean views – everyone is welcome, in Inverloch, images h. pg.78 image j. & r. pg.37

Bairnsdale Flinns Rd Vic Roads: 689 M5, Ph: (03) 5152 4884

Grovedale Torquay Rd Mel Ref: 442 A9, Ph: (03) 5277 7477

Ballarat The Chase Blvd Vic Roads: 565 L6, Ph: (03) 5342 9369

Traralgon Hammersmith Circuit VicRoads 343 L5, Ph: (03) 5176 4063

Lara Eastlakes Blvd Mel Ref: 422 H7, Ph: (03) 5282 6765

Bendigo McConnachie Ct Vic Roads: 604 F5, Ph: (03) 5448 5107

Traralgon Riverslea Blvd Vic Roads: 696 D3, Ph: (03) 5174 4936

Torquay Longshore St Mel Ref: 493 H12, Ph: (03) 5261 3540

Shepparton Ashburton St Vic Roads: 672 J5, Ph: (03) 5831 7576

Yarrawonga Robinson Way Vic Roads: 34 B2, Ph: (03) 5743 1490

Warrnambool McIntyre Ct Vic Roads: 515 N2, Ph: (03) 5560 5541

Wodonga Victoria Cross Pde Vic Roads: 653 N9, Ph: (02) 6056 4213

SALES OFFICES

Metricon – Your dream home on the coast

Geelong 191 Melbourne Rd, Ph: (03) 5277 7477 Gippsland 3/183 Franklin St, Ph: (03) 5176 0675 Inverloch 17A A’Beckett St, Ph: (03) 5674 6451 Warragul 54 Queen St, Ph: (03) 5623 3059

Esplanade Hotel – The hub of Inverloch, great

Red Elk Bar & Café – Soak up the atmosphere

service, modern bistro and relaxed atmosphere image d. pg.111

at this groovy café – fab coffee, delicious food, image m. pg.80

Manna Gum Restaurant - Enjoy amazing

The Art Gallery of Inverloch – New owners

15/10/2010 9:52:40 AM

Asian curries and more in a relaxed atmosphere, image a. pg.78

invite you to browse this gallery of local art, gifts & art supplies, c. pg.48 coast 79

Rod Bending’s World Your local Authorised Hobie Kayak Dealer. Family, fun and fishing in your Hobie Kayak, the kayak you can peddle paddle or sail. Call David on 0428637471 for a test drive of the Hobie Mirage Drive Kayak. Feel the comfort, the stability and the performance. Sit back and enjoy the hands free experience. For recreation or fishing, there is a Hobie Kayak to suit your needs. Rod Bending’s has a full range of accessories and specialize in fishing fit-outs.

Shops 1 & 2, 8 Williams Street Inverloch Phone: (03) 56743322 email: rodbending@dcsi.net.au www: rodbendingsworld.com

Brilliant coffee • Delicious fresh food • Fully licensed

“Kick start the day with classic cooked breakfasts on the verandah of the Red Elk Cafe overlooking the main street.” - The Age, Dec 2010

27 A’Beckett St Inverloch

E redelk@aapt.net.au

T 5674 3264

Open 7 days for Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner - Fri & Sat.

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o. p.

inverloch at a glance…(cont.) Sandsford Antiques & Café – Browse the

Rod Bending’s World Stop in for all the advice

gallery and stop for a relaxing cuppa, image n. pg.145

and equipment you need to get fishing, kayaking or just a great day on the beach. image f. pg.80

Southern Bazaar – A huge warehouse full of retro, antique and quality used furniture, image o. & s. pg.31

John Mutsaers – This renowned Inverloch-

Burke Homes – Choose from a huge range of

Invisage Interiors – The friendly team offer

home plans or design your own with Burke image g. pg.124

Inverloch Visitor Information Centre Get all the info from the friendly local team at this modern information centre image q. pg.142

based artist has opened his new gallery ‘Opus Joop’, image e. pg.135

expert advice for all your interiors and window furnishings, image p. pg.134

Brewer Homes – Their extensive experience and local knowledge are invaluable when building your coastal home. image l. pg.122

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inverloch at a glance… (cont.) Prom Country Accommodation & Booking Service – book your stay in Inverloch, Venus Bay & beyond, image.u pg.96

L&J Tuddin Antiques – Restorations and special pieces from antique to contemporary, image t. pg.82

Earth Art Studio – Beautiful ceramics, kiln fired glass, clothing, handbags, accessories and gifts, Image. r pg.71

L&J TUDDIN restorations

ANTIQUE & DECOR GALLERY ANTIQUES / / ARTIFACTS / / DECOR / / BEADS

Over 20 years experience. Private restoration available. Antiques to contemporary. The Antique gallery is located between the Inverloch Motel and Inverloch Nursery. Open Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. Public & School Holidays or by appointment.

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RESTORED FURNITURE FROM EUROPE & CHINA ljrestore@live.com.au

37 Powlett Street, Inverloch Tel/Fax (03) 5674 3982

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Venus Bay For a change of pace, tootle down the road to Venus Bay, population 400ish. The road skims around Anderson Inlet and then turns right towards Tarwin Lower. The wide Tarwin River flows majestically through the landscape and there are plenty of places to park, have a picnic (it’s claimed that the world’s longest picnic table can be found here), do some fishing along the banks or use the boat ramp – don’t forget the insect repellent! Keep travelling through Tarwin Lower towards Venus Bay or jump on your pushy – there’s an off-road bike track between here and Venus Bay. Farmland characterises the gateway to this coastal township with a relatively short history. The story began in the early 1960s when a large parcel of land was donated to the Alfred Hospital. Over the following years, three estates were developed, each separated by coastal vegetation on Crown Land, and beach houses appeared on the landscape. Today, about 1600 of the 2400 blocks have been built on. About halfway between Phillip Island and Wilson’s Promontory, and 160 kilometres from Melbourne, this area has a real ‘holiday’ feel – a delightful atmosphere of remoteness, and of being a little bit ‘undiscovered’. The eclectic mix of houses ranges from old beach shacks to large, modern homes. In the far estate, abutting Point Smythe State Park, the blocks are larger and more secluded. At the entrance to the estates is the main shopping area, with a general store, newsagency, cafes, fishing stores and even a funky

hairdresser. There are numerous clubs and a community centre, and Venus Bay residents describe their community as ‘vibrant’. For the visitor, Venus Bay is all about the beaches: relaxing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, walking – whatever rocks your boat. There is a range of holiday houses for rent, B&Bs and a caravan park. The narrow peninsula has a sheltered inlet beach that is a nice place for a picnic, walk or swim. Birds flock to the sandflats at low tide and it’s also a favourite haunt of windsurfers. Venus Bay is renowned for its treacherous ocean waters, so head to the Surf Lifesaving Club at the Main Beach (follow the signs) and swim between the flags. There are numerous access points through the dunes, each with its own local name or number. Any part of the ocean beach is sublime for walking and it’s not unusual to be alone on the vast 22-kilometre stretch of golden sand. Venus Bay is also fishing heaven. Choose from river fishing (back at Tarwin Lower), inlet or surf fishing. The Venus Bay pier and boat launching ramp is located at the end of Fisherman’s Road, and there is another at Tarwin Lower. Venus Bay is described as the home of winter fishing due to the big schools of large salmon along the surf beaches and in the inlet where trevally is also plentiful in the colder months. In spring and summer, the inlet comes alive with schnapper, trevally, whiting and flathead. C

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Men from all walks of life have ‘upped-tools’ at Phillip Island RSL’s Men’s Shed. Like women need shoes and lipstick, men need sheds - somewhere to potter around and think, a quiet place to hammer away on a broken chair and maybe escape reality for a while. But what happens when blokes downsize to a retirement village and all the big boy’s toys get left behind? Or when a lifelong partner passes away, leaving an empty fridge and an eerie silence? Retirement can be confronting for men – too much time to spare, the job title gone, the children all grown up – and suddenly, blokes who’ve always been needed feel like they’re wasting away in the recliner. The Men’s Shed program in Victoria is trying to rebuild what’s often lost for older men, giving them a trusted haven in which to tinker, chat and socialise. Many are learning new skills or sharing their own talents at more than 400 Men’s Sheds across Victoria, where up to 30,000 men have found a new reason to stay fit and focused. The Phillip Island RSL is the first sub-branch in the state to offer the program, which club secretary Brian Goldberg is pretty chuffed about. The sprightly 73-year-old is a retiree himself, and reckons the Men’s Shed is helping blokes break down barriers and build confidence during the transition to the twilight years. “If you think young and keep working, you won’t get old. If you’re just sitting there, you’ll shrivel up and disappear.” At least a dozen men visit regularly on Tuesdays and Thursdays to work on projects in the 16 metre by 16 metre tin shed behind the

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club. This week, the running sheet includes building shelves, repairing the club’s chairs, creating a welding bay, making doorstops, and turning an old Jarrah timber bench from a demolished house in Rhyll into some pretty swish-looking cheese boards. Men’s Shedders recently helped local children make a present for Father’s Day – a tool carry-box, which the kids had to sandpaper, nail down and paint. “The kids sat really quietly in their little groups learning how to file and not to hit their fingers with a hammer, and it was nice to watch the blokes showing them the ropes,” says Brian. RSL club president Greg Mead says the shed has given many of the old-timers a renewed sense of purpose. “You’ve heard the saying about retirement – that you sit down in the lounge chair, look at your navel for six months, and die. And this is what we’re trying to counteract,” he says. “Every single person on this earth has something to give, and some special aptitude. A lot of the men who work down there have run their own big businesses. It’s about a sense of belonging, and building pride,” he says. John Allen, 74, is a former carpenter who has endured two open-heart surgeries and the loss of his wife. But when he puts on the badge that says ‘Supervisor’, he gets a much-needed morale boost. “I got chucked out of the Education Department after I had a heart attack at 59. But I love coming here. It keeps your brain active, and that’s the whole idea.” Former sign-writer Chris Robins has taught some of the blokes how to

“Every single person on this earth has something to give, and some special aptitude. A lot of the men who work down there have run their own big businesses. It’s about a sense of belonging, and building pride”

it’s tool time the men’s shed

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

engrave on wood with a hot pyro pen. As a resident at the Penguin Resort retirement village, he appreciates the work space and the company. “There’s no space at all up there for any construction stuff, which is why it’s great to come down here.”

skills at the shed, having spent his working life behind a desk at the Australian Taxation Office. “I’m a real beginner, but the guys here have been so welcoming. We moved eight months ago from Olinda, and it’s been an opportunity to assimilate into the community.”

Bruce Talbot, former maintenance officer at Warley Hospital, says when he’s working at the shed he forgets that he’s got MS and a brace on his leg, and just gets on with the job at hand.

Joe, a former builder in his mid 60s, recently joined the group, and while early stage Alzheimer’s prevents him from remembering names, he has no trouble cutting up wood on a circular saw. “At first he was shy, and wouldn’t talk to anyone, because he was frightened of making a fool of himself. But I said, ‘Look around you, Joe: we’re all old. It doesn’t matter.’ Now he’s helping us build a new welding shed. His wife is amazed at the turn-around. He looks forward to Tuesdays and Thursdays and he’s got a whole new attitude,” says Brian.

Former accountant John Stott, whose home is historic ‘Charmandene’ (circa 1890), is currently fixing and upholstering chairs. “It’s great to do community projects or your own thing. And we all learn from each other - especially me, because I’ve never done a trade before.” As a baritone singer, John put his newfound skills to good use for his choir. “Our choir master is in his 80s and he had a little podium that looked like a circus stand that the animals sit on. He was in danger of falling off it, so I built him a proper podium with steps and a rail.” Anthony Vardett, a retiree from Smiths Beach, was quietly painting signs while I was chatting to the group during their tea break. “No break for me: I put on too much weight over Christmas.” He’s here every week, and his wife gladly drops him off – a welcome break for the two of them. “If I didn’t come here, I’d be home arguing with the wife. Spending so much time together when you’re retired is not always easy.” Newly-retired John Wilcox is looking forward to learning some new

Members at the Men’s Shed are also given regular health checks by Bass Coast Health, events dubbed the ‘Grand Prix Pit Stop’. Participants are scored on a running sheet and ultimately issued with a ‘roadworthy’ or a ‘canary’. “Most people weren’t worried about having the check because there was a sense of fun about it,” says the club president. Greg says that aside from getting a valuable health report, it was a great opportunity to get in a few wisecracks. “I said to the nurse, ‘If you’re checking for testicular cancer, here I am. And she said, ‘I’m not into that one… you’d better go see that fella over there’.” Every bloke passed the health test except for the RSL president himself, which he reckons is a hoot. “All these 95-year-olds were passing, and I bloody got stuck with a>

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yellow canary,” he laughs. “I’m just a wreck. After serving in Vietnam for 12 months, with all those chemicals, I’m taking about 15 tablets a day.” But often it’s mental health that goes undiagnosed with men over 65 – many of them from an era when emotional expression was frowned upon. Brian says the Men’s Shed program has helped some of them come out of the woodwork with problems including grief and depression. “Men’s Sheds have a lot to do with health. Blokes won’t speak one-to-one, but put them together and they’ll yak, yak, yak,” says Brian. In his book ‘Matters for Men’, Dr John Ashfield writes that males often grieve by pushing feelings out into actions and activities, often choosing to create or build something. For those who still have partners, the shed is also helping to give couples the right balance, especially for those that have been married for several decades. As Bruce puts it: “All the wives are wrapt that we come here. They can get rid of us for a while.” C

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it comes with practice . . .

Times have changed in your average medical surgery. The days of the doctor’s wife assisting with a few stitches here and there are over. Today they operate as a well-oiled machine offering an wholistic approach to health care and at Phillip Island Medical Group, their practice nurses are central to this approach. Times have changed in your average medical surgery. The days of the doctor’s wife assisting with a few stitches here and there are over. Today they operate as a well-oiled machine offering an holistic approach to health care and at Phillip Island Medical Group, their practice nurses are central to this approach. Practice and specialist nurses compliment the wide range of services offered by Phillip Island Medical Group. The five specialist nurses provide support and guidance in their field of expertise: Denise in mental health, Cathie in diabetes, Fritzie in weight management and nutrition, Angela in paediatric and asthma care and Alice in osteoporosis, arthritis, continence and chronic conditions care. Together with the patient and their doctor, they prepare management plans to ensure the best and ongoing care in treatment of a variety of chronic conditions. Their patients are just as varied this service is available for everyone – young or old. You’ll find Kevin, Kaye, Susan, Alison, Angela, Alice, Moira, Toni and

PIMG

Kate in the treatment rooms at San Remo and Cowes each week. These skilled nurses assist the doctors by carrying out medical procedures such as wound dressings and providing ongoing care including after surgery. They also deal with emergency situations including accidents, taking ECGs, giving immunisations , wound and ulcer management and more. These services are usually carried out at no out-of pocket cost to patients – only medical equipment such as dressings incur a charge. “The best part of the job is getting to know the patients and building special relationships with them,” says Alice. “...and having jokes with people,” she adds. “The practice nurses are a vital part of delivering medical services, “ says Practice Manager, Gill . ‘They are highly skilled and are all concerned about the care and welfare of our patients, ensuring we provide optimal care. They are also a wonderful support to our doctors.” C

Phillip Island Medical Group

Your trusted health professionals team Phillip Island Medical Group – Cowes 164 Thompson Avenue 5951 1800 8:45am- 5.30pm weekdays 9am-12pm Saturdays 10am-12 noon Sundays After hours GP clinic 6.30pm – 10 pm on weekdays 4.00pm – 10pm Sat, Sun and public holidays

Phillip Island Medical Group – San Remo 123 Marine Parade 5678 5402 8.45am- 12.45pm weekdays 1.45pm-5.30pm weekdays Closed Saturday, Sunday and public holidays

After hours locum: 132 660

www.pimg.com.au coast 87

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How did a Russian art professor and a philanthropic Dame come to share a love nest in the sleepy coastal town of Coronet Bay?

In dramatic fashion, their connection began with a tragic fire. Janene Blanchford Brown’s neighbour Alex had fallen asleep while smoking, and suffered third degree burns to 90 per cent of his body. Janene was shocked to find him on her doorstep, naked, the flesh peeling away from his body. “I took one look at him and immediately thought I was talking to a dead man.” Miraculously, Alex survived. When he was released after 12 weeks in hospital, Janene set about organising a ball to raise money for the burns unit at The Alfred Hospital. For the occasion, she commissioned Russian artist Vladimir Sobolev to paint the portrait of the burns’ unit director, Heather Cleland. When he flew in from Moscow to Melbourne to deliver the portrait, Janene asked to be spared ‘babysitting’ duties, in the hope of finalising her grand event. “Everybody kept saying the artist was arriving and I said, ‘Keep me out of it’.” But when she came to view Vladimir’s depiction of Dr Heather Cleland, she was instantly struck by its beauty, its likeness to the woman and its emotional depth. “The portrait of Heather Cleland took my breath away – I was just amazed at the way he captured her dignity and humanity.” Suddenly, Janene became curious about the Russian art professor, and was more than happy to fulfil caretaker duties on his professional sojourn in Melbourne. On their first outing to an art supply store, she was further intrigued by Vladimir’s soulful expression. “Here was a man with words in his vocabulary like ‘tender’ and ‘spirit’: it was then I knew he was a really special human being.” That day, they had lunch together, shared afternoon tea, and then drove to St Kilda

pier to take photographs at sunset. It was the beginning of a special bond. Four years on, the two still exude an intimate glow, almost a suspended disbelief at having found a soul mate so late in life. A few weeks before she met Vladimir, Janene was pondering the improbability of ever finding a partner who would understand her Eastern Orthodox faith, her need to do community work, and her great affection for her two beloved canines – BJ and Milo – who have the run of their quaint cottage, where they stand on guard on a chaise longue in the front window. “We had both been on our own for a very long time, so it’s the most delightful surprise. It’s so lovely to find a soul mate at a mature age. People get very set in their ways, their ideas and their routine. Allowing someone into your space is a big step, but it happened so naturally that I can’t ever remember it being different. It’s like putting on a pair of lovely kid gloves. Finding that level of trust and harmony and tenderness is absolutely beautiful,” she says. With such contrasting cultural histories – Janene a child of flower power and women’s liberation in Australia, and Vladimir a product of rigid communist Russia – the pair has enjoyed exchanging diverse life experiences. “What has always fascinated me, given the diversity of our backgrounds, is the way we’ve clicked together so perfectly. Our relationship is based on really strong values: on love, mutual respect and support.” Vladimir and Janene agree that sharing a passion for art,>

words katie cincotta photos christina prochazka

a portrait of love coast 89

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“Now he’s part of Australia’s history because his portraits are in Parliament House and the Royal College of Surgeons.”

Vladimir in Eastern Siberia, Russia

education, culture and spirituality was ultimately what sealed their partnership. “Having shared values is the foundation-stone,” says Janene. For Vladimir, it was Janene’s warmth and humanity that drew him in. “Janene had such an open heart,” he almost whispers, like a man not accustomed to speaking openly about emotion. It’s easy to understand his reserve. By the time he was 12, Vladimir had won an international art prize and was being groomed by the Moscow College of Fine Art. “He was a Russian prodigy,” adds Janene. “And in that (Russian Communist) environment, where prodigies were encouraged to be disciplined about their gift and work very hard, he embarked on 15 years of intense study.” The talented realist went on to become a professor at the prestigious art school, and travelled the world studying many of the great Italian masters like Da Vinci. When searching for a place to call home together, Janene invited Vladimir to visit the Bass Coast, which she thought might have the right gentle spirit for an artist. “I’ve found that, leaving the main road and turning into Corinella Rd, it’s as if all the oppression of the outside world falls away from you.” As an artist, Vladimir says that quiet stillness is invaluable. “Everything feels totally relaxing here. Nobody can find me. I can just concentrate on my work and my private life.” When Vladimir is painting, the world around him disintegrates and he enters a mental vortex, which he jokingly calls the ‘zombie zone’. Janene is happy to give him that space when all his attention is being sapped by the colours,

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composition and light before him. “When he’s creating he can be in the zone for 10 hours at a time, but I don’t feel neglected at all. For me, it’s very comforting to know that he’s painting. And I never see his work until he’s ready, which sometimes can take months.” The artist’s work has impressed the world over with its mastery of technique and emotion, which Janene says Australia is now privileged to showcase. Vladimir has painted famous Australians such as former Premier Steve Bracks and AFL great Ron Barassi. “Now he’s part of Australia’s history because his portraits are in Parliament House and the Royal College of Surgeons. It’s beautiful to have been part of that pathway,” she says. Janene herself has been recognised for her dedication to fundraising, honoured with a Damehood for her community contribution over 25 years. But accolades aren’t held in high regard by either party. On the couple’s fridge is a description of their life mantra: “Live simply, love generously, care deeply and speak kindly.” They spend most nights at home in their humble ‘Brown Sable Lodge’ (Sobolev meaning sable), eating dinner by candlelight, and sharing their thoughts over their favourite music and the faint whisper of the sea. While it was a tragic accident that brought them together, Janene feels their union was the phoenix rising from those ashes. “The journey with my neighbour was horrific, but I think Vladimir was the karma blessing out of that.” C

Creating masterpeices from recycled native hardwoods

Mark: 0418 355 148 Nick: 0421 867 476 www.findingthegrain.com.au Factory 3/10 Industrial Way Cowes Phillip Island

South Gippsland Antique Centre South Gippsland Antique Centre Open Weekends & Public Holidays 7 Mine Road, Korumburra, Vic. 3950 Ph: 5655 2605 M: 0414 523 461

Specialising in fine quality furniture & decorative arts at affordable prices

Tyabb Antique Centre Tyabb Antique Centre Open Thurs-Sun & Public Holidays 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm 1527 Frankston Flinders Rd, Tyabb, Vic 3913 Ph: 5977 4245

tyabbantiquecentre.com.au

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2011 Prom Coast Seachange Festival April 8 to April 11, Foster, Toora, Fish Creek and surrounds

The Prom Coast Seachange Festival started in 2007 as a way of highlighting the creative talent found in the Prom Coast region, Prom Coast Seachange Festival is chok-a-blok full of fantastic activities and entertainment for adults and kids, showcasing the area’s eclectic arts, music, theatre, food and community. A sure highlight this year, is a special night with Aussie rock icon, Shane Howard and his band who will perform plus his famous Solid Rock, at the Foster Hall on Saturday April 9th (bookings essential).

autumnstays

“Back by popular demand are the fun Hypothetical, the ‘Living Books’ afternoon, Sunday’s ‘Street Lunch’ featuring local produce and wine, plus a range of art and sculpture exhibits in local galleries and venues. Also on this year’s program is the Friday night comedy show with international comedian Mandy Nolan, the new ‘Antique & Collectables’ valuation fair, plus a very special combined Church Service with a difference on Sunday morning! See page 136 for more details on all events. Visit www. promcoastseachangefestival.org for a full program and booking details.

Book these and over 100 more at www.promcountry.com.au

Why not stay a while and discover the real magic of Foster and surrounds? 8 Acres Guest House

A tranquil setting surrounded by dairy farms overlooking rolling countryside and panoramic views to Wilson’s Promontory, 8 Acres Guesthouse has five bedrooms and provides a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere with all the space, freedom and holiday essentials at your finger tips to make your stay a memorable one. 595 O’Grady’s Ridge Rd, Foster North Call 0418 341 537

Abington Briars Cottage

A few minutes drive north of Foster, this spacious, fully selfcontained cottage is designed for romance with well-appointed rooms, gas log fire and air-conditioning to ensure your comfort. Prepare to be pampered. 485 Amey’s Track, Foster Call 5682 2502

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Oaklane Retreat

This self-contained holiday house just 2 km from the picturesque township of Foster offers total privacy and peace in a very comfortable, high quality setting for up to four guests. Your hosts speak German as a second language. 40 Williams Drive, Foster Call 5682 2797

Tindoona Cottages

A luxurious, romantic getaway for couples, these private, selfcontained timber cottages overlook a landscaped water feature and are set amidst natural bushland with abundant wildlife. Massage and beauty treatments available by arrangement. 330 Fullers Road, Foster Call 5682 1072

I grew up by the sea, I travelled all around the world, but came back to where I started from - that’s my own seachange. I know this area and it knows me.

We talk to Shane Howard about the coast, Goanna and coming back to Foster. words as told to sally o’neill photos supplied

An early memory?

The coast was absolutely central to my childhood, in fact to my whole life - apart from a short stint where I tried living inland - it just didn’t work! As a kid I’d often venture over to the wild back beach, where the southern ocean pounds - you wouldn’t swim there, it’s quite treacherous but great for fishing. It’s where I used to go with my dad, where I caught my first fish, where you go to swim, snorkel, fish, to look at the great infitine horizon and the great emptiness.

How does the coast influence your work?

The whole Australian landscape is central to my work. I get a sense of a place from its coastline. I wrote a song called ‘The River Knows’ about the journey that the eels make in this part of the world - down the inland rivers and lakes, through the estuaries to the sea to spawn the great sense of the cycle of freshwater, saltwater, the great lifecycle that goes on there.

What do you think of the seachange phenomenon?

I grew up by the sea, I travelled all around the world, but came back to where I started from - that’s my own seachange. I know this area [South West Victoria] and it knows me. I see lots of people who have made the change. It’s the quality of life, that sense of being able to walk along the shore - it’s wild and untameable. The coast is not only for recreation, it demands respect – is a formidable mystery. Coastal life has that great Australian notion of freedom and independence - it defines our national character.

Do you know Gippsland?

I’ve got a long connection to Gippsland. Going right back to the Goanna days, to the early 1980s, before Solid Rock took off, we’d come to Foster, Wonthaggi, Inverloch all through the coast playing music with the band. There was a great surf culture around Geelong where Goanna was from, but there was a mirror image of that on the Gippsland coast. We really identified with that beach culture. We’re looking forward to getting back there, it’s a really beautiful part of the world with some really great embedded memories from the Goanna days for me.

What can audiences expect from the performance?

It’ll be a mix of things. We cover a lot of territory, from the old Goanna stuff right through. I’ve been so many people in my life; the rock guy, the folky guy - I’m just the old guy now!! No! All the issues I was passionate about all those years ago, I’m still as passionate as ever about. We have an extraordinary freedom and independence in this country and our beaches are the manifestation of that. The beach is the great equaliser - we leave all our baggage behind. There’s something about the Australian character that’s defined by the coast. Aboriginal people have been going down there for 20 - 40 000 years and we are just following in their footsteps… C

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Follow the Road to Foster and you’ll be surprised at what this small Gippsland town has to offer…

There’s a real buzz in Foster. For a relatively small town, the main street is alive with shops and cafes, and the locals look pretty contented. After all, this town offers all they need – hospital, schools, great shopping, fresh produce and beautiful surrounds. And Gippsland’s natural beauty spots like Tarra Bulga National Park, The Prom, Port Franklin and Sandy Point are all within a stone’s throw.

Foster has a pretty active social scene as well, with music and the arts playing a key role. Outdoor sculptures mark the entry to the town and the Visitor Information Centre and Stockyard Gallery showcase local attractions, arts and crafts. There’s also a very active Amateur Music and Drama Association that presents a range of productions and fosters (sorry about the pun) budding artistic talent in the area.

The town boasts a population of about 1250 and is a mix of those whose families have farmed the land for generations along with relative newcomers who have chosen to call this charming part of the world home. Originally known as Stockyard Creek, it was a town founded on gold mining and that part of its history is still on show in the town today at the museum and on a walking trail behind the main street. Farming, fishing and forestry have also played their part in the town’s development.

The fertile country around Foster also means that there is plenty of quality local food and wine on offer. Take a stroll down the main street and gather a picnic together, and then spread a rug and have a relaxing afternoon in Pearl Park. The lush, green gardens sweep down to a creek that’s shaded by lovely old trees. You’ll be kept company by ducks: keep an eye out, too, for Tawny Frogmouths watching you from above. Pearl Park has featured regularly as a location in the popular ABC series Bed of Roses.>

feeling good in foster coast 95

Wilsons Promontory and surrounds Accommodation Booking Service

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• Gully Humphey Cottage

KOONWARRA • Percanta Bed & Breakfast

3 Sunshine Rise 22 Acacia Street 60 The Boulevard: Beach House A Funky Sandy Beach Shack: Beach House Blakey’s Losman: Beach House Sandy Point Beach House Sandy Point Holiday House Sandy Point Road: Beach House Surfside Resort Town Houses The Beach House at Sandy Point The Beachfront: Beach House The Bothy: Beach House The Quirky: Beach House The Point The Studio at Sandy Point

• Tarra-Bulga Guest House & Lyrebird Cafe

KILCUNDA • House on the Hill Bed & Breakfast

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

0427 812 203 5688 1233 9549 1514

• • • • • • • • •

Bass View Cabins Black Cockatoo Cottages Buln Buln Holiday Cabins Elouera Cottage by the Sea Prom Gate Vista Cabins Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages Tingara View Cottages: Bed & Breakfast Vereker House: Bed & Breakfast Yanakie Caravan Park

5687 1207 5687 1306 5687 1343 5687 1239 5687 1156 9532 0130 5687 1488 5687 1431 5687 1295

YARRAM • Garden Farm Cottage

5185 1235

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Foster is currently gearing up for its biannual Seachange Festival. Situated on Corner Inlet, the town definitely has a ‘seachange’ feel. In fact, a growing number of people are making the move to Foster, and this is reflected in the thriving township. The festival is promoted as ‘a celebration of all that’s wonderful about living in and visiting Prom Coast’. It’s also a real showcase of the breadth of talent and community spirit that’s alive in Foster and surrounds. Locals also say that the annual Foster Show is not to be missed. This popular summer event, held on the last Saturday in February, is a focus for locals through the year and provides a real showcase of rural life in Gippsland. C

close by Port Franklin – about 10km down the road, is boating heaven! Wilson’s Promontory National Park is about 30 minutes south of the township. Tarra Bulga National Park has lush rainforest walks, waterfalls and picnic areas.

foster at a glance - Essential Body Basics - treat yourself to a heavenly treatment pg. 98 - Main St Revelations – you’ll adore browsing in this store filled with new and gently-used goods, pg.138 - Foster Meats – pick up some quality local produce including natural, grass-fed, free range Gippsland Natural beef, pg.138 - Foster Seachange Festival – From April 8 -11 the town will come alive with events, music and arts, featuring Shane Howard performing at Foster War Memorial Arts Centre on Sat 9 April, pg. 136 - Prom Country Accommodation & Booking Service – book your stay in Foster & beyond, pg. 96 coast 97

promotional feature

finding your essence words sally o’neill photos warren reed & supplied

Nerelle Checkley moved to Gippsland eight years ago to be with her partner and “start a new life”. With seven kids between them, she was kept busy being a mum. Now she’s taking time for herself and encourages others to do the same.

“After having time off with the kids, I wanted to re-establish my life. I did my beauty training 23 years ago, and then an employer encouraged me to add massage to my skills and I haven’t looked back,” she says. She found her dream business in the South Gippsland town of Foster five years ago, and since that time she has worked hard to shape it into her own. After surviving the hard times of the GFC, Essential Body Basics has now blossomed into a destination in its own right offering a wide range of beauty services for all ages. The Essential Body Basics difference is the personalised service and range of treatments available. “People are always amazed at what we do!” says Nerelle. We offer facials, pedicures, manicures, waxing and rub-on tanning (for a more natural look). In our spa room, we have full-body exfoliation and mud wrap treatments in our capsule. All the treatments are very discreet and luxurious and allow you to reap the benefits of lovely, healthy skin.” “We speak to each client before their treatment and tailor it to their needs and lifestyle,” says Nerelle. “Our massage has a unique signature style that I’ve developed through my career and passed on to my practitioners. It’s not just massage to relax: most people have a few aches and pains and we can also help with those.”

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The MediLift machine is very popular as it promotes healthy muscle function and younger-looking skin. “If you’re tired and run-down this often shows in your skin, and this non-surgical facelift stimulates tone and collagen production. It also allows us to infuse treatments into the skin to promote anti-aging on a deeper level.” And the wide range of facials is always in demand and can be used in conjunction with techniques such as microdermabrasion. This process re-surfaces the skin and gives a deep cleanse, energising the skin cells and improving product penetration. Nerelle has also developed her own makeup range - ‘Zyink’. “People are concerned about what they put on their skin and Zyink mineral cosmetics are free from harmful additives, chemicals and cheap fillers. Our cosmetics don’t irritate the skin and also offer natural sunscreen,” says Nerelle. They are available to purchase in store or online. It seems Nerelle has found her true essence and is content with her life choices. “Foster is a lovely place to live. It has a strong community spirit, and the trade brought by visitors to the area is also a strength. Business keeps flowing throughout the year. It’s safe and secure, there are lovely people and it’s tucked away in a nice little part of the world. It’s a really positive place to be.” C

d d d

road test We asked lucky Elizabeth Richardson to sample one of Essential Body Basics’ most popular treatments. She enjoyed an indulgent two-hour therapeutic massage and deluxe facial… “ I’d never had a facial before, so I didn’t know what to expect,” says Liz. “It felt like absolute heaven.” Liz also appreciated the staff’s professional approach and the fact that they explained each step, gently explaining what was going to happen next. “First they got me comfortable and I had a massage. Nerelle is really good at what she does. She massaged my back and shoulders and I was so blissed out that I didn’t even know what oils they used! There were candles burning and the room was dimly lit and relaxing and comforting.” After the massage, Liz enjoyed a deluxe rejuvenating facial. Another pleasant surprise was a foot massage while the facial treatment was working. “It was extraordinary: I just loved it. I loved the hot towels on my face - it was just so relaxing, not like I had expected.” “Afterwards, I felt complete. When you feel good, good things start happening - you get in the zone! The rest of the day just flowed effortlessly. I said to someone the next day that I’m going to go back and do it again - make it a monthly habit.”

Beauty services including waxing, manicure, pedicures, rejuvenation facials, non surgical face lift & body sculpture, special occaision make up. Spa treatments including full body exfoliation spa treatments, mud wraps, hot stone massage & therapeutic massage

1 Bridge St Foster 3960

Phone 5682 1200 Email nerelle@essentialbodybasics.com.au Web essentialbodybasics.com.au Pure chemical free mineral cosmetics now available to purchase in store or online www.zyink.com.au coast 99

Welcome to YMCA Bass Coast Leisure Facilities Phillip Island Leisure Centre 10-14 Church Street, Cowes, 3922

• Vacation Care

Phone: 5952 2811 Fax: 5952 2078 Email: phillipisland@ymca.org.au

• Squash

• Spin Cycle classes • Skate Park • Teen Gym • Basketball

• Health Group • Group Fitness classes • Personal Training • Multi-purpose Stadium • Spa and Sauna

• Mixed Netball

J D0576

• Pilates

www.basscoast.ymca.org.au

OPEN 7 DAYS Weekdays 8:30am to 6:00pm Saturday 8:30am to 5:30pm

Lifestyle Sandals

Leisure Walking

Active Casual

Sunday 9:00am to 5:30pm

Stockist of:

See in store for a large variety of new styles in 2011

From $59.95 Cowes Pharmacy 24 Thompson Ave Cowes Vic 3922 Tel: 03 5952 2061 Fax: 03 5952 2499 cowes@amcal.net.au

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This autumn, immerse yourself in nature...

promotional feature

utumn is a beautiful time to visit Phillip Island Nature Parks, and take in some of the unique and very special places which you may not have visited before. Did you know that in addition to the four main attractions at the Phillip Island Nature Parks, the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm and the Nobbies Centre, the Nature Parks offers some other wonderful and unique locations which are free to visit. These locations range from wild, rugged coastlines to tranquil mangrove estuaries. Enjoy a wander along walking tracks and boardwalks to enjoy these special places. Interpretative signage also offers great information about each site’s history and their flora and fauna.

Rhyll Inlet and Wetland

Comprising tranquil mangroves and mudflats, this wetland area is world renowned for its importance to migratory and resident birds. Bird watchers and nature lovers enjoy exceptional viewing from the boardwalks and walking tracks. You can learn more about this area through interpretive signage along the walkways.

Cape Woolamai

Discover the stunning granite landscape and miles of golden beaches at Cape Woolamai. One of Australia’s most popular surf spots, the Cape is also home to Phillip Island’s largest colony of the migratory Short-tailed Shearwater birds. Over a million birds return here each year from Alaska to breed. A series of walking tracks and viewing platforms take the more adventurous to breathtaking areas such as the Pinnacles and the old granite quarry. Walks range from 4-8km in length.

Oswin Roberts Woodland

This area of remnant eucalypt woodland is a sanctuary for wallabies, echidnas, owls and bats. Take a relaxing stroll or cycle along the tracks and learn about the area along the way.

Pyramid Rock

This unique pyramid-shaped rock was formed by volcanic activity 65 million years ago. Stroll along the boardwalks to take in spectacular views of Phillip Island’s stunning south coast. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a magnificent sunset.

Swan Lake

Just a few minutes from the Penguin Parade, this is the only permanent freshwater lake on Phillip Island. An important habitat for Short-tailed Shearwaters and wetland birds, it is also a site of cultural significance to the traditional owners, the Boon Wurrung people. A walking track takes visitors through bushland filled with birdlife. A raised boardwalk then meanders over sand dunes to bird hides where you can observe the wetland birds without disturbing them or their habitat. C Rhyll Inlet and Wetlands top left, Cape Woolamai main image, Oswin Roberts Woodland middle left, Pyramid Rock middle right, Swan Lake bottom.

For more information about the Nature Parks, including all available tours & sites, visit www.penguins.org.au

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FREE

Local, Experienced, Connected Offices in San Remo, Pakenham, Lang Lang, Narre Warren & Drouin Call 03 59 455 200 www.duffysimon.com.au/tac

TAC & WORKCOVER ADVICE *

NO WIN NO FEE POLICY * conditions apply

Beauty Now selling at Outer 2 Inner book in for a Skin Analysis

Wellness Cosmetic procedures that create dramatic results for younger looking skin Made in Australia & free from animal testing • Acne scarring • Pigmentation • wrinkles • Psoriasis • Sun damage • & much more

Outer 2 Inner Shop 10, Cowes Plaza 209–213 Settlement Rd Cowes | ph: 5952 6688 | mob: 0404 979 287 | email: outer2inner@waterfront.net.au

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’ whatsnew

artist - ken griffiths

Helen and Tamsin are very excited to be the new owners of the Art Gallery of Inverloch. The gallery will have a fresh new look and also offer a wide range of art supplies. “We are not a museum: we want the gallery to be somewhere people visit regularly to view changing works, ponder a major purchase or buy a small gift.” Shop 2, 7 A’Beckett Street Inverloch.

parklands estate

Stockdale and Leggo Wonthaggi are pleased to announce Parklands Estate - Wonthaggi’s newest lifestyle option. Register your interest today on 1300 467 898.

finding the grain at southcoast furniture Southcoast Furnishings in Cowes now stocks quality pieces made by the local team at Finding The Grain. The recycled native hardwood furniture will add style to any home. Also check out Southcoast’s wide range of furniture, bedding, blinds and flooring at their two locations in Cowes and The Concourse. www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

southern bazaar

art gallery of inverloch

The latest on the coast this autumn!

foreshore homes Benn Walton has lived on Phillip Island all his life and understands coastal living. After almost a decade building locally, he has now started his own business ‘Foreshore Homes’ building quality coastal homes. See ad page 139.

New large canvas painted prints from Southern Bazaar will make a statement in any home. 42 Cashin St, Inverloch. Call 0409 234 482.

Don’t put oﬀ your beach home project any longer! Adam Killeen is a carpenter extraordinaire and can turn your dreams into reality. Specialising in decks, stairs, balustrading, flooring and more, Adam uses only the best materials and products. “I build everything as if it was for myself,” he says. Better call him fast! Call 0400 340 944.

high country carpentry

Local law firm Duffy & Simon has announced that it is extending its practice to include three new offices and a tailored TAC and Workcover service for Gippsland residents. In announcing the launch, partner Edwin Hume noted that the addition of a free telephone advice line on (03) 5945 5200 for people who have been injured on the road or at work is an integral part of the new TAC and Workcover service. Gippsland residents are now able to speak to a local lawyer about their case, and where suitable attend a free local appointment to discuss their legal options. The three new locations at San Remo, Drouin and Lang Lang complement the existing Pakenham and Narre Warren Duﬀy & Simon oﬃces.

need legal advice?

a new style It’s not only the style queen Ashley Brooke who has a new look. Her Cowes hair design salon has also undergone a makeover! Check it out and why not get yourself a fresh new look at the same time! Call 0401 438 399.

seagrove seaviews Seagrove’s latest land release – featuring larger home sites with bay views – has just gone on sale. With prices starting at $155,900, land is selling quickly, especially to locals who make up 60% of Seagrove buyers. To find out more call 1800 61 61 06 or visit www.seagrove.com.au

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where to

eat

Archies on the Creek

Chocolate Factory

Banksia Cafe

Cafe Chocolatte

Beach Street Garden Gallery

Claypot Curry House

Cafe Lugano

Coffee Traders

CafeSwiss

Coffee Traders

17 Mine Rd, Korumburra Phone 5655 1747 Korumburra’s newest café

5/5 Howey Road Mt Martha Phone 5974 4733 More great coffee and treats

Carmie’s Kitchen

Connells Bakery

81 Archies Creek Rd Archies Creek Phone 5678 7787 Unique culinary destination

Promontory Rd, Fish Creek Phone 5683 2628 Coffee, cake, light lunch and art.

162 Beach Street Frankston Phone 9783 7109 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Art

71 Thompson Avenue Cowes phone 5952 5636 9am - 3pm everyday

144 Marine Pde San Remo Phone 5678 5589 Delicious homemade food

Champions Cafe

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Back Beach Road Phone 5952 2710 Racing good food!

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930 Phillip Island Rd Newhaven, Phillip Island Phone 5956 6600 For chocolate lovers

1805 Phillip Island Rd Phillip Island Phone 5952 2283 Hot chocolate, chocs & more

733 Turnbull-Woolamai Rd, Woolamai Phone 9705 2370 A true curry experience

3 Blake Street Mornington Phone 5977 1177 Great coffee and treats

33-35 Murray St, Wonthaggi (opp Safeway) Phone 5672 1050 Delicious food & treats

Curry Leaf

Shop 9, Vista Place Cape Woolamai Phone 5956 6772 Great curries

Esplanade Hotel

Moos @ Meeniyan

89 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan Phone 5664 0010 Share the passion for local produce

Sandsford Antiques

1 A’Beckett St Inverloch Phone 5674 1432 Delicious meals

Grantville TakeAway

Nobbies Centre

Verde

Harry’s on the Esplanade

The Palms at Kaloha

Shop 3/4 1524 Bass Hwy, Grantville Phone 5678 8757 Service with a smile

17 The Esplanade Cowes Phone 5952 6226 Delicious cuisine

Nobbies Centre, Phillip Island Phone 5951 2816 Meals & functions with ocean views

Cnr Steele & Chapel St Cowes Phone 5952 2236 Island’s best seafood platter

13 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Phone 5674 3339 Antiques & cosy cafe

34 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza Phone 9787 0200 Seafood, steak, modern Italian

Watermark

Phillip Island Tourist Rd, San Remo Phone 5671 9300 Contemporary dining @ Silverwater Resort

Infused

115 Thompson Avenue Cowes Phillip Island Phone 5952 2655 Restaurant,cafe, wine bar

Phillip Island RSL Cnr Cowes Rhyll Rd & Thompson Ave Phone 5952 1004 Contemporary dining

La Provincia

105 Corinella Rd, Corinella Phone 5678 0382 Fresh, home-style Italian

Red Elk Bar & Cafe 27 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Phone 5674 3264 Great coffee & delicious food

Manna Gum @ Broadbeach 5 Lindsey Close, Inverloch Phone 5674 1199 Asian curries and Australian fare

RACV Resort

70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Road Inverloch Phone 5674 0000 Spectacular views

McClelland Gallery Cafe 390 McClelland Dve Langwarrin Phone 9789 1671 Cafe, sculpture & functions

Let’s eat!

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“We’ll advertise that we have the Island’s best seafood platter, and make sure we stand behind the claim.”

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coast dine out

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Palms at Kahloa nestles amidst slender palm trees and definitely has a resort feel. Perched amongst the branches, this second storey restaurant is open, airy and the perfect venue to meet friends or dine out with the whole family. After the first few months of operating, owner Brendan Wiggins had a stroke of genius. He would create Phillip Island’s best seafood platter. “I said: ‘We’ll advertise that we have the Island’s best seafood platter, and make sure we stand behind the claim’,” says Brendan. Within weeks, the dish became the talk of the town – so we’re here to give it a go. As we settle at our table for a pre-dinner drink and groups of locals and visitors arrive, we see friends celebrating a birthday party and couples enjoying the balmy night. We peruse the menu over a glass of Sauv Blanc, but we’ve already decided: we skip entrée because we’re focused on the seafood platter. Brendan also encourages us to try the special of the day, a creamy lobster and Moreton Bay Bug risotto. Our waitress Hollie comes out with crayfish cutlery and large finger bowls – this looks serious. Brendan sends out a bowl of the risotto for us to share. This rich dish is deliciously creamy and chock full of Moreton Bay Bug pieces. We were only going to have a taste, but end up eating the whole bowl! Then the platter makes its way from the kitchen – it’s that moment when you look around to see who the dish is for, but everyone else in the restaurant is actually looking at you! The platter is heading our way. Holly expertly places the dish on our table and we sit for a few moments in stunned silence. What makes this platter so special is the sheer abundance

of fresh seafood. A fresh crab accompanies natural oysters, prawns, mussels and half a crayfish. The beer-battered flathead is the only fried ingredient, and the seafood mornay is a delicious addition. The platter is garnished with lemon wedges and tartare, and served with fries. Another great thing about a meal like this is that it provides a wealth of dinner conversation as we identify and discuss each morsel. It’s such a pleasure to taste really fresh seafood and to enjoy such a variety. Brendan tells us that this is actually their ‘one-person’ platter, and we wonder how many people it takes to carry the four-person version! We eat as much as we can, then relent. The nigh empty plate leaves our table a few kilos lighter than when it arrived. Now, I wouldn’t normally do it, but for the purposes of research, I take on the challenge of dessert. I leave the decision to Brendan. He suggests his “famous Sticky Date Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce”. This is not a dessert I would have chosen myself, but when it comes, I eat my words along with the cake. It is rich and creamy and absolutely delicious and, with the Caramel sauce, totally evil! Brendan joins us for a coffee and a sip of his prized red. He brings a plate of his (also famous) hand-made chocolate truffles which we somehow find room for. Each is delectable and smooth and creamy… I’m thinking of asking for a takehome pack. In fact, Brendan tells me that he often gets orders for take-away seafood platters – what a great way to impress your friends for a dinner or a romantic beach picnic!>

I’ve got one word to say to you about Phillip Island’s Palms at Kahloa Restaurant … Seafood Platter. Well, that’s two words actually, but now I’ve got three words…Don’t Miss It!

Palms at Kahloa coast 107

Carmie’s Kitchen

144 Marine Parade SAN REMO VIC 3925 Phone: 03 56785589 Fax: 03 56785596

COFFEE & PASTRIES • CAFE & BAR • DELI FRESH & LOCAL PRODUCE • WINE SALES

Growing & using our own fresh produce, only the freshest & best quality ingredients are sold & used. 105 Corinella Road Corinella Phone: 03 5678 0382

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Sat & Sun: 8:30am–5:00pm Monday: 8:30am–3:30pm

Brendan and Donna met “over a beer in Hobart” while both were in the Defence Forces. She gained front-of-house experience whilst completing her Diploma of Hospitality Management and working as president of the Airmen’s Club, and is a tailor by trade. Brendan learnt his craft as a chef in the navy, and says there is “no better training ground”. He served overseas which he says “changed his perspective on life”. The couple came to Phillip Island with their family two years ago to run a timeshare, then the opportunity to take on Palms arose. It’s a family affair, with son Kade in the kitchen as a first-year apprentice and daughter Hollie front of house with Donna. Since Brendan and Donna took over in June, they have worked hard to gain a loyal local and wider following, offering Locals Nights, a casual family-friendly atmosphere and inviting menu. Locals Nights have gained a strong following, with many enjoying the specials on offer including popular curry baskets. You can also order from the standard menu. Brendan has worked alongside many chefs in his time and now shares his knowledge helping to train young chefs through the Navy system. His passion for Asian food was fuelled by months spent in South East Asia. Over summer, his chilli mud crab became famous and people begged him to ring them each time the dish was on the specials board. He strives to keep the menu evolving and to provide good food at great prices. “We try to be affordable and family-friendly,” says Brendan. We walk out amongst the palms and into the starry night. It’s been a wonderful, relaxed evening and the seafood platter has definitely lived up to expectations – Brendan’s reputation is safe for another day… C

Palms At Kahloa Cnr Chapel & Steele St, Cowes, Call 5952 2236 Open Tues – Sat nights Locals night Wednesday. Bookings preferred.

Best seafood platter in town Cnr Chapel & Steele Street Cowes

Join us for the Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Open Tues-Saturday evenings or anytime for private functions, Weddings & parties. Wednesday locals night all main meals on the menu $15!

ph: (03) 5952 2236 email: wiggos_5@bigpond.com coast 109

’ whatsnew The latest on the coast this autumn!

chef’s hat for archies on the creek

beach street garden gallery

Frankston’s favourite café is fully licensed and open for dinner and memorable functions. Rob is passionate about the menu and Brigitte creates a magical atmosphere for diners. The team is also planning live shows including Alice in Wonderland for the school holidays. 162 Beach Street, Frankston. Call 9783 7109.

Archies on the Creek is proud to be joining the prestigious few fine-dining establishments to be awarded an Australian Good Food Guide’s “Chef’s Hat”. The city-sharp, countryfriendly service continues, as does the restaurant’s magnificent yet affordable menu. What are you waiting for? Make your reservation now! Call 5678 7787.

café swiss churchill island café If you haven’t been to Churchill Island, you are truly missing out! The café boasts winning bay views and the new owners invite everyone to come and enjoy them. Changing seasonal specials, great coffee and amazing views. Just off the coast of Phillip Island at Newhaven.

Korumburra’s newest café is now fully-licensed, so come and enjoy a glass of wine with your pasta. Carlo also makes a tempting range of Swiss-style cakes and treats and imports his own coffee brand from Switzerland. 17 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Call 5655 1747.

tarwin valley wines Tarwin Valley Wines, situated near Blackney Road in the Gurdies, is founded on strong winemaking experience. Folkert has worked as a winemaker for fourteen years and his new venture has yielded two varieties so far: 2010 Blackney Road Riesling and 2009 Blackney Road Cabernet are now available across South Gippsland. www.tarwinvalleywines.com

purple hen steals the show gold river olive oils This ‘liquid’ gold is locally produced, handpicked and unfiltered. The Gold River Olive Oil Company produces two extravirgin olive oils: ‘Pure Frantoio’ and ‘Rocco’s Gold’. Available from local outlets, see ad on page 142.

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Rick Lacey is proud to announce his award-winning 2009 Shiraz. “The success reflects both the strengths of the wine and shifts in taste towards elegance rather than huge wines. Soils, climate and winemaking all contribute to our style,” says Rick. Pop into Purple Hen in Rhyll to sample their drops and enjoy regular music events. 96 McFees Rd, Rhyll.

Fantastic Sports Bar & Entertainment venue: Juke box or live music, TAB & Pool table. Thirsty Camel Bottleshop & Drive Through. Tabaret, friendly staff & great service. Modern Bistro, open 7 days, Alfresco dining, modern menu with seniors meals available, breakfast every Saturday & Sunday 8.30 –11.30. Try our Sunday night Buffet from 6pm, a great selection of dishes to tantalise your tastebuds

aptain’s ounge

Captain’s Lounge restaurant is the newest, most beautiful restaurant in town. A sophisticated menu & elegant surrounds, you couldn’t find a more perfect place to celebrate a special occasion! Weddings, Engagements, birthdays, conferences & an amazing dining experience.

1 A’Beckett St Inverloch

03 5674 1432 coast 111

Restaurant + Bar

Functions at Verde Bar

Known for its relaxing “lounge” atmosphere and fine selection of local and imported wines by the glass, as well as an enticing selection of cocktails, Verde bar is now available for private functions. Whether it is a birthday, family celebration, work gathering or just a special night out with friends, you can now book the bar exclusively in conjunction with a finger food set menu (starting at just $15 per head). Contact us for more information. Lunch | Dinner | Drinks | Fully licensed | 7 Days 34 Mt Eliza Way Mt Eliza

Phone 03 9787 0200

www.verde.com.au

The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory the sweetest attraction on Phillip Island

Retail • Cafe • Tours

Home of Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate, a unique, interactive & educational celebration of all things chocolate. • Daily buffet lunch from 12 to 3 • Hot Chocolate made with real chocolate • Choc dipped frozen bananas

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, 930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven phone 5956 6600 web www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au coast 112

myfavoriterecipe pumpkin curry with tomato & tamarind If you haven’t discovered this gem in the Bass Hills, you are missing out on a true Sri Lankan culinary experience featuring authentic flavours created and served by Shirani and Ranjith Perera and served in clay pots amidst a colourful, village-style atmosphere…

ingredients 2 – 3 tbsp oil (for frying) 1 kg of pumpkin cut into small wedges (size of half a small potato) 1 brown onion cut finely 1 – 2 green chillies finely cut 3 - 4 cloves bruised garlic 1-inch piece ginger bruised and chopped finely 1 sprig fresh curry leaves 3 bruised cardamom pods cinnamon stick broken into 2-inch pieces 3 – 4 pieces pandana leaf salt to taste 10 cherry tomatoes or 2-3 large tomatoes (any other kind) 1 tsp curry powder ½ tsp turmeric powder 1 tbsp ground black mustard ½ cup tamarind juice Optional: prawn powder/handful of dried prawns or Maldive Fish (available from any Asian grocery)

method Put a saucepan large enough to fit all the pumpkin pieces without too much crowding on the stove. When the pan is hot, pour in oil, and when bubbling put in the onion, garlic, ginger, pandana leaf, curry leaves, cardamom, cinnamon, green chillies and add salt to taste. When these ingredients give an aroma, add the turmeric powder, curry powder, ground mustard and tomatoes. Add the optional flavoring and tamarind juice. Add the pumpkin and give it a good stir, making sure all the pieces are well and truly coated. Lower the flame, put a lid on and let cook very slowly. Check from time to time to ensure that all the pumpkin pieces are cooking evenly. When the pumpkin is cooking, avoid using a spoon to stir as this will cause the pieces to disintegrate - just give the whole pan a swirl once in a while. Within 45 minutes you should have a delicious pumpkin curry to eat with hot Basmati rice. C

Welcome to our NEW Mt Martha store! 3 Blake St Mornington 03 5977 1177 Open 8:30am-5pm daily 5/5 Howey Road, Mt Martha 03 5974 4733 Open 8:30am-5pm daily

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With comfortable modern surrounds and a fantastic range of entertainment options, the Phillip Island RSL is the island’s favourite meeting place. Whether its coffee with friends, dinner with family or a special occasion, our friendly staff and great menu make every visit memorable!

Phillip Island RSL

Open 7 days • For the benefit of members and guests The ANZAC Room is ideal for weddings, engagements, birthdays, corporate dinners, and conferences. Our boardroom facilities also accommodate smaller training groups or conferences, and the Lone Pine Bistro is ideal for smaller functions and social events. Visit our website for more information, including upcoming events!

Cnr Cowes Rhyll Rd & Thompson Ave, Cowes, Vic. 3922

www.pirsl.com.au Tel. (03) 5952 1004

• Group bookings • Weddings • Private functions Open 9.00am-4:30pm daily for Breakfast, Lunch, Morning & Afternoon Tea. Please check our website for extended opening hours during Summer & Weekends Ph. 5956 7834

www.churchillislandcafe.com.au

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delectabledrops

2010 Blackney Road Riesling

Purple Hen 2009 Shiraz

2009 Chardonnay

Winemaker Folkert Janssen has produced a crisp, delicate and fresh riesling, with a lively texture and a bouquet of cardamom, orange blossom and lime. www.tarwinvalleywines.com Tarwin Valley Wines

This award-winning Shiraz has savoury notes with spicy berry fruit and a little pepper on the nose. On the palate, silky fruit and oak tannins, with berry fruit, plum and a savoury finish. Purple Hen Vineyard & Winery 96 McFees Rd, Rhyll, Phillip Island 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

Mallani wines are crafted from grapes grown in the cool climate  of South Gippsland.  Winemaker James Lance has produced a crisp, dry Chardonnay and it is available locally at Archies on the Creek and other local outlets. Mallani Wines Woolamai, South Gippsland www.mallani.com.au

Vineyard & Winery 96 McFees Road Rhyll Phillip Island Hours: 11am – 5:30pm 7 days a week in Summer & School Holidays Other times: 5 days a week (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) Phone: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

Medal winning 2009 Red Wines just released including the 2009 Shiraz Winner of Red Wine of Show and Wine of Show - 2010 Gippsland Wine Show Gold Medal - 2010 Royal Melbourne Wine Show

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A retreat from life. A retreat from living.

Zenergie & SO! me share the same creators & each expresses individuality, passion & style.

www.zenergie.com.au 3 Luxury self-contained villas on the edge of Kongwak (10kms north of Inverloch) in an idyllic rural setting. Panoramic views, intimate accomodation. A retreat for couples seeking peace, privacy & revitalisation 4star AAA rating 45 Inverloch Rd, Kongwak. ph 5657 4490

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Bags / Jewellery / scarves / clothing / giftware 57 Bair St Leongatha. Open weekdays 9â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5:30 Sat 9â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1 Ph 5662 3103

green coast

funky beach house

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

With a sustainable, retro, island theme, this funky l’il house - home to Kate and Karl - represents a new wave of homeowners choosing a simple, environmentally-friendly life – coastal style. It’s a perfect, balmy afternoon when I arrive at the home of Kate and Karl in the coastal burbs of Phillip Island’s Cape Woolamai. Large, established gums provide shade and a gateway to the cute 1960s beach shack that they now proudly call home. The wide front deck (a modern addition) cleverly makes the house feel instantly bigger. The front door opens into the lounge room, which is light, airy and open. Shiny polished boards lead through to the kitchen/dining area, with bedrooms either side and a bathroom at the back. The evening is hot, but the open house catches the sea breeze, and we’re so close to the beach that there’s no need for any other air con.

This is the first home the couple has owned and it’s compact, simple and functional. It’s also well-positioned on the block, allowing spacious front and back yards. Remember those days when houses were modest enough to allow yards with trees for kids to climb and lots of room for outdoor entertaining – or a game of totem tennis perhaps? “I lived in Melbourne, and came to Phillip Island because of my surfer boyfriend. There’s no surf in Coburg!” jokes Kate. Their two years of renting in Cape Woolamai was a good introduction to the seaside suburb. “I met people I liked, which made it easy to feel at home. There’s a great community here. It may not be apparent on the>>

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green coast

funky beach house

surface, but it’s here.” With the decision made on where to buy, the search to find a house to suit their budget and lifestyle began. “We were quite open to all options, and this house became available when we were ready – it all happened pretty quickly. It had lots of light and a great vibe. We were also looking at another place, but it needed a lot of work. Here, everything had been done and we could just move in. We were very lucky.” Kate, a fire ecologist, works and studies in her home office, and Karl works as a ranger. They have a shared philosophy of living simply and a “deep commitment to recycling”. They have no plans to expand or renovate their two-bedroom, 50-year-old beach house. “It has at least another 20 years of living in it: why pull it down?” asks Kate. “Modest living is common in my little circle of friends – and I believe it’s a really important step forward for Australians. As the population grows, we have to get used to smaller houses again” Their philosophy follows through into the house’s furnishings and interior styling. “Karl provided the original theme - he’s got some Gauguin prints and loves anything tropical with a palm tree – in a funky white boy way,” jokes Kate. “Also, the place has a lot of character, so we wanted to complement the 1960s beach house feel.” Kate quotes the total bill for their furnishings at around $200. Their “simple, low-cost formula” includes sourcing items from hard rubbish collections and op shops, and our family’s sheds.. “You really can furnish an entire house in any style for next to nothing.” >>

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green coast

Contemporary & innovative landscape designs. mob: www: email:

0401 669 927 jamesrosslandscape.com.au info@jamesrosslandscape.com.au

Landscape Design

Consultancy

Coastal Planting

Stone Features coast 119

Government Rebates will reduce in June install your solar system now and get maximum rebates

Phone: 1300 007652 for more information www.sunplussolar.com.au or check out your local distributor at www.phazer.com.au * Please refer to the Feed in Tariff applicable in your State for more details. coast 120

green coast

The kitchen is the hub of the house and is often filled with friends and fun. “I love cooking for others,” says Kate. “It’s very ‘coast’ to organise your own feasts and fun. A recent dinner party theme was ‘catch it, collect it, grow it or steal it’. That’s a really rewarding part of the lifestyle rather than going out all the time city-style.” With the inside sorted and no renos to do, Kate and Karl couldn’t wait to get stuck into their “favourite part of the place” - the garden. In no time flat, they transformed the suburban backyard into a thriving food garden with veggies, fruit trees and herbs. They’ve also taken care to landscape the surrounds with indigenous plant species. Their newly-completed washhouse made from recycled materials allows for outdoor showers and clothes-washing in keeping with the coastal feel. “We’re even into retro architecture!” laughs Kate. “After being renters, it’s nice as home owners to be able to garden and implement our own environmental ideas. Karl is a real grey-water man - he buckets it all onto the garden!” says Kate. In the front yard established trees, including an oldfashioned plum, add atmosphere and shade. “They’re not local natives, but part of the modern suburban landscape where you have a mixture of all sorts of plants. I really appreciate the effort of those before me who planted these trees,” says Kate, pointing to a tall gum protecting us from the hot afternoon sun. With no plans for renovations, the couple’s future improvements include adding solar panels, growing more veggies and just looking after the house as is. “I think we all need to slow down and stop consuming so much. We probably have everything we need already. Do we need to be so greedy? That’s my environmental philosophy. Respect the natural environment and be mindful of the water, energy and other resources we use.” So true sustainability at a suburban level can exist – and, with the surf just down the road, it’s in true coastal style. C

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“Quality Local Builders”

Sales Claire Brewer: 0447 006 828 Clay Brewer: 0457 813 905 Email: brewerhomes@bigpond.com

www.brewerhomes.com.au coast 122

RBP 24502 HIA 857-853

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coast

Your dedicated lifestyle property guide featuring homes, retirement, builders and real estate on the coast.

House by Metricon

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Coastal Refrigeration & Airconditioning Rick North is a fully qualified refrigeration & airconditioning technician with over 20 years experience in the trade. Coastal refrigeration and airconditioning provide professional before and after sales services. Servicing Phillip Island & surrounding areas. Commercial & Domestic Refrigeration & Airconditioning. Sales, Installation & service of all major brands.

Contact Rick North Ph: 5956 6301 After hours commercial breakdown

ARC Authorisation No: AU22840

ISLAND GARDEN SUPPLIES DISPLAY GARDENS NOW OPEN 886 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, 3925 Ph: 5956 7397 Fax: 5956 7929

Sand, Pavers, Blended Soils, Screenings, Rocks, Pebbles, Sleepers, Barks, Mulches, Path and Driveway Toppings & Mesh and Trench Reinforcement, also PHILLIP ISLAND PRE-MIXED CONCRETE. We also have a large range of beautiful Garden Ornaments and Pots. coast 126

in for the build A house by the coast is the dream of many. Robert and Lisa Matusewiecz have worked hard to make this dream come true, and their Inverloch home is proof that getting involved in your house build can reap many rewards…

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

The pouring rain has dampened Rob’s summer-holiday plans to landscape the garden of his new house. So, it’s a little muddy outside when I arrive, but pristine, clean and welcoming through the front door. Seven-year-old Macey and five-year-old Amelie are lined up on the couch quietly watching TV but looking longingly outside waiting for the rain to stop while I chat to Rob and Lisa. Baby Corban is sound asleep. The couple tell me that they enjoy having a project on the go and were ready for an investment property. When Rob visited Inverloch four years ago, he liked the area and it ticked many boxes for a family holiday home. With the location decided, they spent months looking for the right property and weighing up the “buy or build” equation. While viewing a house that just “wasn’t quite big enough” for their growing family, they happened to spy the block next door for sale. The decision was made: “build” it was… Rob, an engineer, and Lisa, who works in marketing, took on the task of research with a vengeance. Weekends were spent browsing display homes and looking beyond the stylish set-ups to see what would really work for their family. Their real-life considerations needed to be

taken into account, such as noise, mess and separate spaces for adults and kids. Their homework done, they settled upon Metricon to build their coastal home. After the lengthy selection process, they were very pleased with the company, who were “happy to answer any questions”. Using the knowledge gained from a recent renovation at their Oakleigh house, they cleverly mixed several house designs and features into a blueprint that would work for them. Rob points out that there are differences between city and coastal standard building measurements, so it’s wise to be sure of what features you require at what size. For example, Rob and Lisa chose to customise their roof heights to an increased 2550mm, and add floor-to-ceiling doors to add drama to the coastal design. The couple’s main criteria was space – enough for a growing family plus visitors. With four bedrooms, a front room that can be used for sleeping, and two bathrooms, the house perfectly satisfies guest and family requirements. “We had 16 people stay for Christmas and it didn’t feel cramped,” says Lisa. The Metricon Designer series ‘Jasper’ design they chose features>

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“I love the bathroom and ensuite, and also the kitchen from where I can see the kids and through to outside, so I’m not removed from the activity.”

a wide, open plan with central kitchen. “I love the bathroom and ensuite, and also the kitchen from where I can see the kids and through to outside, so I’m not removed from the activity,” says Lisa. From the central living area, a large sliding door reveals the functional spaces including the kids’ bedrooms (each child got to choose their own colour scheme), bathroom, laundry and guest room. The main bathroom has a large bath and shower and stone feature-tiles that allow for clean lines and easy maintenance. Lisa actually chose the bathroom from another Metricon house design as it was more suited to the family. Also, the display home had plantation shutters between the living area and bedrooms. Lisa and Rob chose to replace the shutters with a solid wall for noise-proofing, and are glad they did. Lisa took charge of the colour scheme in tandem with Metricon’s colour consultant, Stacey Street. “They really knew their stuff,” adds Rob. The result is a “beachy feel” achieved through the use of neutral colours with nautical highlights such as navy and red. The couple worked with Metricon on their choice of lighting and flooring. In order to be as sustainable as possible, they did their research and selected a lighting plan featuring efficient fluorescent globes. They “resisted” carpets in the bedrooms and chose solid

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bamboo flooring throughout.“Because we had a good relationship with Metricon, we were able to make some adjustments and custom changes,” says Rob. During the build, Rob came to the site every two weeks and was impressed with the Metricon project manager Peter Wilcox’s attention to detail and consistency in being on top of any issues that arose. “We still stay in contact,” says Rob. With the process now complete, Rob is happy with the way they approached the build. “We took a longterm view. We see the kids growing up here, so the whole process was a balance – we didn’t want to cut corners and then spend years wishing we had spent the money,” says Rob. The next project is the garden. “We’ve planned an Australian native garden - we want to attract birdlife and link with the neighbouring trees. We have an English-style garden at home, so natives will give this house a more ‘holiday’ feel.” It’s been a busy twelve months since they first purchased the block, so this family of five is content to curl up on the couch waiting for the rain to stop, happy in their new home away from home. C

Designs to suit waterfront living

The new Alto 30 by Metricon sliding door

BEDROOM 2 3260 x 3420

LEISURE 4960 x 4570

W.C.

LAUNDRY

BATHROOM

sliding door

linen

KITCHEN

robe

W.I.R.

DINING

LIVING

2850 X 4620

4080 x 5140

pantry

PWDR linen

ENSUITE

robe

BEDROOM 3 3300 x 3200

W.C.

DOUBLE GARAGE

robe

5530 x 6010

MASTER SUITE 4120 x 4740

3120 x 3630

W.I.R.

robe

ENTRY STUDY

PORTICO

Visit a display centre in your chosen dream location 1300 METRICON metricon.com.au

Bairnsdale Flinns Rd Vic Roads: 689 M5, Ph: (03) 5152 4884

Leopold Estuary Estate Vic Roads: 468 C5,

Yarrawonga Robinson Way Vic Roads: 34 B2, Ph: (03) 5743 1490

Warrnambool McIntyre Ct Vic Roads: 515 N2, Ph: (03) 5560 5541

Grovedale Torquay Rd Mel Ref: 442 A9, Ph: (03) 5277 7477

SALES OFFICES

Lara Eastlakes Blvd Mel Ref: 422 H7, Ph: (03) 5282 6765

Geelong 191 Melbourne Rd, Ph: (03) 5277 7477 Gippsland 3/183 Franklin St, Ph: (03) 5175 8600 Inverloch 17A Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett St, Ph: (03) 5674 6451

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s e f rg o gn La ge esi n D Ra stal oa C

Langford Jones Homes

Melbourne: 9579 2277

e: sales@ljhomes.com.au

www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au coast 130

LJ0059/COAST

Visit a Langford Jones Homes Display Centre: Phillip Island and Wonthaggi. NEW DISPLAY: Leongatha

aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith and Warren Reed

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Quality accommodation

QUEST Phillip Island

“Innovative, energy efficient designs to suit your lifestyle and budget.” • Building Design

• Town Planning

• Architectural Drafting

• Land Surveying

• Building Consultancy

• Soil Testing

• House Energy Ratings

• Engineering Design

Located in the vibrant, holiday township of Cowes, Quest Phillip Island is a short stroll to local shops, restaurants and beaches and within a short travelling distance to Phillip Island’s many attractions including the Penguin Parade, surf beaches and Grand Prix Circuit.

QUEST Oceanic

(03) 5672 1144

www.dbdesign.com.au

Quest Oceanic features one, two and three bedroom, fully self contained apartments. The apartments feature quality furnishings

and fittings, dvd players, stereos, full kitchen, laundry facilities with large balconies and onsite under cover secure parking for one car.

Phone: 03 5952 2644

questphillipisland@bigpond.com.au www.questphillipisland.com.au www.questoceanic.com.au coast 132

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aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith and Warren Reed

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OR you’re covered with your local Bass Coast Daikin experts.

Don’t sweat another Summer or freeze another Winter Contact the expert team at Bass Coast Refrigeration and enjoy a perfect climate all year round.

RTA: AU11737

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6/03/11 10:58 PM

coast directory

THE BEST INNOVATIVE IDEAS, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, & QUALITY PRODUCTS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

Interior Design & Decoration Blinds & Drapes

Shearwater Studio Semi abstract paintings inspired by Diana’s surroundings. Commissions welcome

External Awnings

www.coastmagazine.

no obligation free advice, measure and quotes for all your interior & exterior window covering needs showroom/office 22a cashin st inverloch 3996 tel 03 5674 6247 • fax 03 5674 6249 email invint@bigpond.net.au • www.invisageinverloch.com

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Open most weekends - please call to confirm Diana: 0408 341 898 or 5956 7370 email: dianab@waterfront.net.au

83 Lantana Road, Cape Woolamai

Call Sian on 0418519181 or 59566377

www.artyfarty.com.au

18 Boundary Road Wonthaggi - Inverloch Bass Coast,Victoria Open Sundays 10am-4pm

m| 0412 485 044 e| schoone@ozemail.com.au w| schooneart.com

John Mutsaers Opus Joop Studio

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS AS A PROFESSIONAL ARTIST AND THE OPENING OF HIS NEW STUDIO IN INVERLOCH

ART BY As seen in coast winter 2010

Josephine Allen Russell Kent

Josephine Allen

sales & appointments Russell Kent

www.islandinfluence.com.au phone. 03 5956 8594

EASTER LONG WEEKEND 2011 EXHIBITION OPENING SATURDAY 2PM - 5PM SUNDAY - TUESDAY 10 AM - 5PM 9 CHURCHILL CRES, INVERLOCH Mobile. 0402392799 http://web.me.com/johnmutsaers

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www.coastmagazine.net

Russell Kent

coast directory

21 second ave, Cape Woolamai

Frank Schooneveldt @ Goat Island Gallery intuitive landscapes, mixed media & photographs

coast directory

Unique paintings and etchings inspired by the beautiful environment: local, Australian and International.

Also cards, scarves and pottery, all by resident artist, Mary Shaw

Commissions welcomed. Open 10 am to 6 pm every day. Phone to confirm in Winter. 33 Beach Parade, Sandy Point, 3959 T (03) 5684 1094 M 0400618787 E maryshaw@sandypointgallery.com.au W www.sandypointgallery.com.au

Warren Reed photographer Take a well earned break, and get along to the 2011 Prom Coast Seachange Festival Enjoy a weekend full of art, music & entertainment! • ‘Solid Rock’ Shane Howard & band • Local music & literary events • ‘Living Books’ featuring local identities • Sunday ‘Street lunch’ featuring local food & wine • Antique & Collectables valuation fair

www.coastmagazine.net

• Eclectic art and sculpture exhibitions • Walking & bike riding events • Celebrity Hypothetical ...and so much more!

www.coastmagazine.net coast 136

Visit www.promcoastseachangefestival.org for the full program & booking details!

SUNDAY

from 10 am - Inside & Out LIVE MUSIC FROM 11AM

Main Street, KONGWAK, Victoria (only 10 minutes from Inverloch)

For more information call Jane on 0417 142 478

akers eyewear

Custom orders welcome Handmade items, Punk Baby items, Princess Baby items and anything in between!! Contact us through Facebook, search delicious babies

Make-upâ&#x20AC;˘Hairâ&#x20AC;˘Beauty

We have grown! Visit our great new location & browse our huge showroom stocking a range of quality brands, prescription glasses & sunglasses...

Eye examinations are bulk billed. Contact lenses, veterans affairs, behavioural optometry.

Pre-natal belly painting 69 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi, 3995

p. 5672 1965

Contact Ally on 0402 117 280 www.make-upandbodyart.com coast 137

www.coastmagazine.net

services

coast directory

Delicious Babies

coast directory

ASHLEY BROOKE HAIR DESIGN

Quality hair design at a friendly price! specialising in colour, cut, bridal and styling

New & Gently Used Quality Goods

Mon 12pm–7/8pm Tues 10am–5/6pm Fri 10am–6pm Sat 10am–2pm Other times by appointment Peter Savage Barber Wed 10pm–6pm Thurs 10am–6pm Fri 10am–6pm Sat 10–6pm Sun 11am–6pm No appointment needed Ph: 0437 365 846

mob. 0401 438 399 21 Thompson Ave Cowes (Located inside barber shop)

Maxines Have opened a GRAND NEW STORE 55-57 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi Ph. 5672 3889

Jewellery, summer fashions, handcrafts & homewares

Don’t forget our CLEARANCE STORE 104 Graham St, Wonthaggi Ph. 5672 4108

www.coastmagazine.net

MAXINES also at 220 Commercial Rd, Yarram 1/121 Jupiter Boulevard, Venus Bay 335 Brunswick St, Fitzroy & Maxines Family Emporium, Main Rd, Kongwak (open every Sunday)

31 Main Street Foster Ph: 5682 1381 Weekdays 10am-5pm Sat 9:30am-4pm Sun 10am-4pm

• Gippsland Natural Beef

Natural grass-fed free-range beef, raised without hormonal growth promotants or antibiotics. Proudly carryies the MSA Tenderness Guarantee.

• Top quality local Lamb • High grade Pork and Poultry.

Functions & Special Events catered for 39 Main Street Foster ph: 5682 2410 email: jmdavies@wideband.net.au

• Gippsland Natural Beef

Natural grass-fed free-range beef, raised without hormonal growth promotants or antibiotics. Proudly carryies the MSA Tenderness Guarantee.

• Top quality local Lamb • High grade Pork and Poultry.

Functions & Special •Events cateredNatural for Gippsland Beef • Gippsland Natural Natural Beef grass-fed free-range beef, raised without 39 Main Street Foster ph: 5682 2410

hormonal growth promotants or antibiotics. Natural grass-fed free-range beef, raised without email: jmdavies@wideband.net.au Proudly carryies the MSA Tenderness Guarantee. hormonal growth promotants or antibiotics. Proudly carryies the MSA Tenderness Guarantee.

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• Top quality local Lamb • Top quality local Lamb • High grade Pork and Poultry. • High grade Pork and Poultry. Functions & Special Events catered for Functions & Special39 Events catered for Foster ph: 5682 2410 Main Street

Benn Walton | Cape Woolamai | Phillip Island | 0412 751 873 b.walton@foreshorehomes.com.au www.foreshorehomes.com.au

coast directory

Domestic & Commercial Builders

Bikes for all levels Specialising in BMX bikes + • We The People • Sunday • Colony • Pilgrim • Bikes for all levels Specialising in BMX bikes + accessories.

Bikes for all levels Specialising BMX bikes + accessories. • We The in People • Sunday • Colony Inner Space Design • Scott Avanti • Trek • We The People • Sunday• Pilgrim • Colony • •Pilgrim • Scott • Avanti •

innovative environmentally sensitive Bikes building design

for all levels Specialising in BMX bikes + accessories • We The People • Sunday • Colony • Pilgrim • Scott • Ava Bikes for all levels Specialising in BMX bikes + accessories. • We The People • Sunday • Colony • Pilgrim • Scott • Avanti • Trek

tel:

03 56 785 638

fax:

03 56 785 015

• Madd gear • Goon • Flavor • Blunt • Red

mobile: 0408 138 065 email:

groddabdav@iprimus.com.au

www.coastmagazine.net

6 boathaven grove, san remo 3925

Scooters + Accessories. Scooters + Accessories. Scooters + Accessories. • Madd • Goon • Blunt • Madd gear • Goongear • Flavor • Blunt•• Flavor Red

118 Graham Street Wonthaggi ph: 5672 2270 www.xover.com.au

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Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Make a C change island landscape + design

www.purplec.com.au

Call 1300 557 336

Matt Crooks . Smiths Beach . Phillip Island. 0419 356 222 t. 5952 3838 e. info@islandlandscaping.com.au www.islandlandscaping.com.au

Love the Coast, Live on the Coast

ClayPot Curry House Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine 733 Turnbull-Woolamai Rd Woolamai

Please make advanced bookings to avoid disappointment

www.coastmagazine.net

Winner of the 2010 Bass Coast Hospitality award

For all your Real Estate needs Let us help you... Shop 2, 129 Marine Parade, San Remo Phone: 5678 5141 www.sanremorealty.com.au coast 140

phone. mob. email. www.

03 9705 2370 0425 748 907 spe10437@bipond.net.au claypotcurryhouse.com.au

Opening Hours Tues - Sun Lunch: 12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2pm Dinner: 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;9:30pm Open: Daily during Summer, School Holidays & Public Holidays.

Hours Closed Tuesday Mon-Thurs 4pm–9pm Fri-Sun 12pm–9pm Holidays 12pm–9pm

Take Away or enjoy a unique dining experience under the stars in our country courtyard dining huts - weather permitting

Family Owned • Wide range of foods Great Coffee • Great local service

33–35 Murray Street Wonthaggi 3995 (opposite Safeway) ph: 5672 1050

licensed and BYO . All Halal food available. all cards accepted Specialty curries; crab prawn fish and biryani Curry Leaf Takeaway Phone 5956 6772 Shop 9 Vista Place Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island

GRANTVILLE TAKE AWAY

Come in and meet, Darrel, Michelle and Tara, new owners enjoying the real seachange

Local fresh produce with seafod straight fron the boat, Island grazed beef and lamb and in-house bakery. Accommadation available.

Wed 11am–8pm Thurs 11am–8:30pm Fri-Sat 11am–9pm Sun 11am–8:30pm ph: 5678 8535 Shop 3/4.1524 Bass Highway Grantville

Waterfront dining with panoramic bay views 17 The Esplanade Cowes, Vic.

Ph (03) 5952 6226 coast 141

www.coastmagazine.net

Freshest local seafood on the Island

coast directory

Your one stop Curry Shop Authentic South African Cuisine

Food influenced by Ticino, the Italian region of beautiful Switzerland.Serving breakfast, lunch and fresh cakes with Chicco D’oro coffee.

open Thurs - Mon brekky & lunch 8.30am to 4.30pm dinner from 6pm fri & sat

89 Whitelaw St Meeniyan, Victoria t 5664 0010 e eat@moosatmeeniyan.com.au w www.moosatmeeniyan.com.au

coast directory

proud & passionate about gippsland produce

Stop in for friendly advice on...accommodation, wineries, attractions, walks, galleries, markets & events from our friendly team.

Enjoy a cosy atmosphere, background music and friendly service at reasonable prices. Exciting specials changing daily. Open 9am - 4pm Daily, Closed Monday & Tuesday 17 Mine Road, Korumburra | ph. 5655 1747 Fully Licensed

www.cafeswiss.com.au

The Gold River Company Introduces two export quality extra virgin olive oils

Pure Frantoio - 250 ml

Rocco’s Gold - 500 ml

Locally grown & bottled in Corinella, South West Gippsland

Handpicked Unfiltered High in anti-oxidants

www.coastmagazine.net

Outlets:

La Provincia, Corinella Hard Loch Cafe, Loch Kernot Store, Kernot Island Quality Meats, Cowes Hillies Butchery, San Remo, Cleanskin Kitchenware, Cowes

www.visitbasscoast.com Inverloch Information Centre 16 A’Beckett St Tel: 1300 762 433

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“FUEL BY THE TANK OR TANKER FULL” LEONGATHA DEPOT

PH.

03 5662 2217

A/H

0418 595 346

Turning ideas and dreams into reality

Decks Verandas Pergolas Call Adam 0400340944 Stairs Fully qualified & insured Balstrading Retaining walls Feature walls Australian Timber Decking & Flooring Flooring Association Member

FISH CREEK, FOSTER, INVERLOCH KORUMBURRA, LEONGATHA, MIRBOO NTH TOORA, WONTHAGGI & YARRAM COWES

Castrol Lubricants available

Metrix Kitchens Specialist interior finishes

VAN STEENSEL TIMBERS BUILDING MATERIALS & WATER TANKS

Granite made in Melbourne by

www.naturastone.com.au

www.coastmagazine.net

At last affordable granite for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, furniture & commercial applications wide variety of colours to suit your decor Face lifts & Renovations

FRIENDLY & EXPERT ADVICE HUGE RANGE OF WATER TANKS • TIMBER • HARDWARE

Peter Barton mob. 0428 14 20 20 www.metrixkitchens.com

coast directory

Distributors for South Gippsland

• PAINTS • TOOLS

CNR. CORINELLA TURN OFF & BASS HWY, GRANTVILLE (03)56788552

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the

OrphFund Shop

www.orphfund.org

specialised joinery solutions Custom made: • Bathroom Interiors • Kitchen Interiors • Furniture The only Certified Kitchen and Bathroom Designer in Gippsland

Kevin Holden PO Box 789, Wonthaggi 0458 520 347

Studio suites & flash-packers Come overseas from $30/night*

BOOK ONLINE AT www.theislandaccommodation.com.au

www.coastmagazine.net

P: 03 5956 6123

E: info@theislandaccomodation.com.au

The Island is brand new Eco-friendly accommodation, specially designed for you with state of the art facilities, comfortable and friendly services. We understand the importance of meeting people and so the complex has been designed with this in mind - open spaces for relaxation, fun, dining and good times. Our vibe is friendly and relaxed. The Big Wave Complex, 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road, Phillip Island, 3925, Victoria, Australia

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Photography & Crafts from around the world

All purchases help raise vital funds for Orphfunds projects, benefiting street children and orphans

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Meeniyan, South Gippsland, Australia www.tarwinvalleywines.com

Mallani Wines.indd 1

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SANDSFORD ANTIQUES SANDSFORD & CAFE

ARE YOU COAST MAGAZINE MATERIAL?? If you are looking to join a small, friendly team and excell in sales, read on . . .

ANTIQUES BOUGHT AND SOLD AUCTIONS ARRANGED

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE

13 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett Street, Inverloch 3996 PH: 03 5674 3339 MOB: 0429 636 289

www.coastmagazine.net

Coast Magazine requires the talents of a proven performer in sales (preferably advertising) to join our small, dedicated team. A current drivers licence and own vehicle required. Must be able to service existing customers, establish new leads and cold call. The right applicant will work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. The position offered is permanent part-time, base salary and bonuses, a great work environment with a small friendly team based in San Remo. If you thrive on hardwork and meet the above requirements, please email applications and resumes to confidential@coastmagazine.net

www.coastmagazine.net (applications close 31/3/11)

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www.coastmagazine.net where to stay, eat, shop – fashion - builders – property – gardening & green – live the dream

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Prom Country 96

Kongwak Market 137

Denis A Hawkins 64

Amaze n Things 10

Quest Apartments 132

Mossvale Music Festival 42

Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery 15

Inverloch Info Centre 142

RACV Resort Inverloch 37

Seachange Festival 136

Studio 41, Mornington 116

Gold River Olive Oil 142

The Big Wave Complex 144

Fashion

Professional Services

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit 40

Zenergie 116

Delicious Babies 137

Duffy Simon 102

Phillip Island Nature Park 101

Hunter & Minx 47

Chrisp Pictures 144

Rod Bending 80

Antiques

Maxines 138

Purple C 140

L&J Tuddin Antique & Décor Gallery 82

Sketa 22

Sandsford Antiques 145

So! Me! 116

Silverwater Resort 40

South Gipps & Tyabb Antiq. Centre 97

Property & Retirement

Trades & Hardware Bass Coast Refrigeration 134

Alex Scott, Phillip Island 147

Coastal Refrigeration 126

Gardens & Green

Broadbeach Inverloch 78

Evan’s Petroleum 143

Compass Pools 148

Parklands - Don Fraser 123

High Country Carpentry 143

Anita Stepano-Ross 54

Island Garden Supplies - Donmix 126

FKP Shearwater 4

Metrix Kitchens 143

Arty Farty Gallery 135

Island Landscape & Design 140

San Remo Realty 140

Van Steensels Timbers 143

Celia Rosser Gallery 54

James Ross Landscape & Design 119

Seagrove Estate 2

Woodwork Solutions 144

Cheryl Petersen Galleries 70

Sun Plus Solar 120

Restaurants & Cafes

Wineries

Artists & Galleries

Earth Art Studios 71 Gecko Studio Gallery 56

Government

Archies on the Creek 6

Mallani Wines 145

Goldsmiths Gallery 72

Bass Coast Shire Council 73

Beach St Garden Gallery 61

Tarwin Valley Wines 145

Gooseneck Pottery 68

Frankston Shire Council 60

Carmie’s Kitchen 108

Purple Hen 115

Goat Island Gallery 135

Westernport Water 74

Churchill Island Café 114

Island Influence Gallery 135

Claypot Curry House 140

Art Gallery of Inverloch 48

Hair, Health & Beauty

Coffee Traders, Mt Martha 113

John Mustaers 135

Akers Eyewear 137

Connells Bakery 141

Leongatha Gallery 68

Ale de la Rosa 137

Curry Leaf 141

Mbantua Mornington 66

Amcal Chemist Cowes 100

Esplanade Hotel 111

McClelland Gallery & Sculpture Park 58

Ashley Brooke Hair Design 138

Grantville Takeaway 141

Meeniyan Art Gallery 66

Crossover Cycles 139

Harry’s on the Esplanade 141

Mingara Gallery 64

Essential Body Basics 99

Infused 9

Mirboo Nth Arty Gras 72

Outer 2 Inner 102

Paddlewheel 29

Mosaics on the Bay 56

Phillip Island Medical Group 87

La Provincia 108

Oak Hill Gallery Mornington 70

San Remo Pharmacy 47

Manna Gum 78

Sandy Point Art Gallery 136

YMCA 100

Moos @ Meeniyan 142

Saraghi Art Space @ Café Lugano 136

Palms at Kahloa 109

Homewares

Phillip Island RSL 114

Finding the Grain 91

Prom Meats 138

Automotive

Invisage Interiors 134

Café Swiss 142

I moto, San Remo 139

Main St Revelations 138

The Red Elk Bar 80

Maxines 138

Verde 112

Shearwater Studios 134

Builders & Designers

Orphund 144

Beaumont Concepts 130

South Coast Furnishings 9

Brewer Homes 122

Southern Bazaar 31

Burke Homes 124 Darren Brown Design 132 Foreshore Homes 139

coast directory

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 112

Inner Space Design 139 Langford Jones Homes 130 Metricon 129 Pod Trading 119

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SEEING SUCCESS from the mountains to the sea Beautiful homes deserve the very best care and commitment when it comes to carefully targeted marketing campaigns. And even if your home is less luxurious you will enjoy the same high level of service from each of our 12 offices. Success doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come by accident. It involves an entire team of hard working professionals, with great local knowledge, all working together so you can experience the results you seek when selling your property. Call any of our offices to discover the difference that 125 years of experience can bring.

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