Coast Magazine Summer 2015

living

at

its

4.95

best

$ s

um

in this issue

HOOD SU RF IN G SI ST ER boards getting girls on

TH E BO O G IE M AN r a rock’n roll dreame

S LI FE AT IT S LI M IT ers doctor without bord

ISSN 1833–3648

• good eating feature ide • bulding & renovation gu • phillip island surfing nirvana

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coastal

Superbly located only 800 metres from the main street of Cowes and even closer to the beach, Seagrove is Phillip Island’s most sought after environmentally-sustainable address.

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 including acre lots 2 with mature trees and land with water views. Titles are available now so you can start building your dream home straight away.

coast 2

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We d d i n g B a n d s

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Fi n e J e w e l l e r y

T E N T H A N N I V E R S A R Y

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132 Whitelaw Street Meeniyan VIC 3956 Phone/Fax (03) 5664 0055 Mobile 0417 601 160

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L ACY JEWELLERY STUDIO

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Philip Lacy Manufacturing Jeweller 132 Whitelaw St Meeniyan VIC 3956 | Phone 5664 0055 | Please visit www.lacyjewellery.com.au

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A S U S TA I N A B L E WAY T O L I V E

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STAGE 1 SELLING FAST STAGE 2 NOW SELLING

Live your dream at Cape Paterson, one of Victoria’s best-kept secrets.

I

magine your dream home, a short stroll from one of the region’s most spectacular beaches.

Imagine a modern community in a stunning location, conducive to a healthy, active lifestyle.

There will be modern facilities, a sports precinct as well as walking and cycling tracks meandering through 40 hectares of beautiful landscape.

Only 1 hour and 40 minutes from Melbourne, The Cape is a unique residential project that will feature 7.5-star energy efficient homes, set in a contemporary village atmosphere.

Designed to exist in harmony with the environment, The Cape offers high standards of comfort, livability, and sustainability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL LISA ON 0413 265 362 OR VISIT LIVEATTHECAPE.COM.AU

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Phillip Island a recycled water community You might not realise it, but we’re all an important starting point in the process to produce recycled water. The sewage from our community is pumped to an advanced treatment plant on Phillip Island where it undergoes intensive treatment. This produces what is called recycled water, which is then returned to the community as an alternative water source. coast 8

Recycled water can be easily recognised in our community by its purple pipes, taps and water meters, in the home it’s the right water to keep our gardens green, our cars and boats clean, and even flush our toilets.

Around the Phillip Island community recycled water is the right water for irrigating Phillip Island Community Orchard and keeping Cowes Recreation Reserve, Newhaven College sporting ovals and Phillip Island Golf Club green all year round.

Find out more about recycled water at www.westernportwater.com.au

WESTERNPORT WATER

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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.

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SKETA AUSTRALIA

Australian designed and made – Limited quantities for the individual look – Quality accessories Mornington 71 Main Street T 5976 3311 Sorrento 42 Ocean Beach Rd T 5984 0927

and stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa

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We always listen to music in the office. This edition, it has actually been a movie soundtrack, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”. Which got me thinking about people’s secret lives. Well, not so much their secrets, but about other lives they’ve lived. Many people who move to the coast leave behind lives and careers, transferring their skills to new ventures by the sea. It’s fascinating to find out all the extraordinary things people have done. In this issue, for example, we meet people who have run city restaurants, organised multi-million-dollar fundraisers, worked for arts organisations and sold t-shirts, to list but a few. Even at Coast, our other lives include teaching, finance, stand-up comedy, music, real estate, advertising and shoe-making.

from the editor

I guess my point is that behind every story there is another story, and we have some wonderful ones to share with you this summer. Brian Taranto and Jess Holden have strong family ties to Gippsland and are out making their mark in the world, albeit in vastly different fields. We first met Jess in our Spring 2013 edition and this update of her time in a hospital on the border of Pakistan gives a personal insight into a conflict that still dominates world news. For Brian, living the rock and roll dream and bringing the music he loves back home is just part of a colourful and creative career. Phillip Island’s Jess Laing and Snow Lacco are at opposite ends of the career spectrum, and share their passion for doing what they love, while newly-minted Gippslanders Lulu Rae and Damien Twomey bring colour and carnival-thrills to town with their Magic Theatre.

There’s no better time than summer for getting out and enjoying the coast. To help, we’ve compiled our Taste of Summer guide to the best restaurants, cafes and bars on offer. We also explore the surfing mecca of Phillip Island to discover just why it’s been declared a national surfing reserve. In “All About The House”, there’s a treasure-trove of information for anyone thinking of building, renovating or just giving the beachhouse a well-deserved make-over.

There are so many great things happening on our coast this summer – I hope you enjoy the hospitality, festivals, food, beaches and crystal-clear waters surrounding us.

Good cheer and happy holidays to you all!

Eleanor

staff profile - warren reed, photographer

Warren is Coast’s master photographer and resident gleaner. We frequently arrive into work to find some new ‘old’ collectable that Warren has rescued from an op shop. Aside from his incredible photographic skills, he is our in-house IT resource, decaf enthusiast and comedic relief.

Seriously though, Warren has a passion for creative photography, particularly the landscapes across our coast. “Talking photographs fulfils a passion and brings peace and energy into my life,” says Warren. Over the years, Warren has captured the soul and the splendour of the people and places of our region and we are all the richer for it.

This summer, an exhibition of Warren Reed coastal landscapes will be on show at The Coffee Collective in Wonthaggi. As well as some of the iconic pieces he has shot for Coast over the years, the Live the Dream exhibition will include breath-taking landscapes. The exhibition runs from 15 December 2014 until 31 January 2015. Visit our facebook page or www.coastmagazine.net for details.

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wheel at Mercedes-Benz Berwick today.

coastLMCT 13 578 Mercedes-Benz Berwick 518 Princes Highway, Berwick, 1300 622 622, www.mbberwick.com.au

contents

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38

life At itS limitS 44

SUrfiNg SiSterhooD 38

For most of us, images on the nightly news are the closest we get to a war zone. Working as an obstetrician on the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan with Médecins Sans Frontières, Jessica Holden has experienced the horrors of war up close.

She gives an eye-opening insight into life for women in one of the most war-torn regions on earth.

the Boogie mAN 26 Get an insight into the rock ‘n roll lifestyle with promoter Brian Taranto as the head honcho of Love Police shares his journey from sweeping floors to successful rock promoter. A big fan at heart, he still gets a thrill sharing the music he loves. Rock on.

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Jess Laing calls the ocean her ‘salt water therapy’. The onetime competition surfer is now committed to getting girls into the water and onto the waves with her Girls on Board surf school. Join Coast’s Katie Cincotta as she discovers the joy of surfing and finds out just what motivates and inspires Jess.

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54 mAkiNg mAgiC 54 The circus is coming to town! After relocating to Foster with their mobile theatre (The Strumpet), Lulu Rae and Damien Twomey are spreading theatre, cabaret and burlesque across South Gippsland and beyond.

contents

contents

A life At SeA 50 At the age of 14 Snow Lacco went fishing, and the sea has been his home ever since. For over 60 years he’s fished all over Bass Strait and learned some valuable life lessons along the way.

people

50

19

15 minutes of fame

20

2 coast people

60

artist profile

Shane McKay

Dennis Harris and Ron Nicholson

Monica Adams

for life 64 friends Wugubank school project

70 tASte of

summer 99

78

surfer profile

177

young & inspired

Geoff Owens

places 70

feature area

145

lifestyle review

152

lifestyle review

Phillip Island surfing nirvana

Your guide to our best cafés, bars and restaurants.

99

Ebony Maier

Balnarring beach front

Smiths Beach clifftop spectacular

regUlArS

All about the

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This summer, it’s All About The House.

We help you get inspired to build, renovate or decorate your home, with style tips, lifestyle reviews and a comprehensive guide to local services and suppliers.

16

coast life

24

all I want

33

events guide

99

taste of summer

104 dine out –Watermark at Silverwater Resort 113 cafe review – Connells Bakery 174 coast directory & stockists 175 fitness 176 a good read 178 where am I?

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coast life

Cool Art

Gallery Without Pier presents Contemporary & Indigenous Art at Coolart in Somers from 10-27 January. They also have an extensive range of Aboriginal art from the Western and Central Deserts. www.withoutpier.com.au

Bracelet to break the poverty cycle Mornington Peninsula jewellery designer Emily Dornbusch and the Cotton On Foundation have created a range of bright, fun, rope-based necklaces. Exclusive to Cotton On KIDS, the proceeds will help fund projects in Southern Uganda. www.cottonon.com

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Wombat welfare Our wombat population is being decimated by mange, and local volunteers are needed to help prevent further spread of the disease.

Find out what to do and how to help at www.mangemanagement.org.au

coast

life

Say I do!

This photographic petition, inspired

by John and Yoko’s 1969 Bed In, features photos and stories of singles, couples, families … calling for marriage equality. Lend your voice, or your face to the cause. www.inbedproject.com.au

Birthday Prom

Wilsons Prom’s premier accommodation booking site is celebrating 15 years in business. Join the party and treat yourself to a Prom holiday this summer. www.promcountry.com.au

Surf’s Up We’ve fallen in love with Stunno the surfing echidna created by Gippslander Mark Reside and illustrated by Fish Creek’s Tina Jacobson!

A rhyming children’s book that is as sweet as it is unique. www.stunno.com.au

It’s WWAM, thank you, ma’am Phillip Island’s first Women Words Art Music event (WWAM) is on in March 2015. Coinciding with International Women’s Day, it celebrates women’s achievements in the arts and features female authors, visual artists and musicians. Be inspired! www.wwam.org.au

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fif teen

minutes

of

fame

I signed up with the CFA because I thought it was a way to put something back into the community. It’s a great feeling when you’ve helped someone out and it’s not been a tragedy in any way. words as told to eleanor mckay photo warren reed

A recruitment drive at a local shopping-centre prompted Shane McKay to join his local CFA branch nine years ago.

Coast sat down with him to find out his thoughts on everything from volunteering and happiness to politics and being part of the community.

I did a couple of tours on Black Saturday. I have incredible memories of the people I met that day. We were up there to help, and people were just so grateful. Despite everything that was happening to them, they were trying to look after us. I will never forget their outstanding hospitality.

I didn’t want to be a fireman when I was growing up. I just wanted to do something with animals. I have helped rescue a few animals... yes, including a cat from a tree. You meet a lot of people through the brigade. It’s hard when the pager goes off, because it could be someone you know. Once I was called out to an accident and my sister was in one of the cars, but fortunately no one was injured.

I live in Somerville on the Mornington Peninsula. I love the country feel, but it’s definitely getting bigger here now. When I was growing up we used to ride horses around Mornington, but now there are people everywhere. It’s the three Fs that make me happy – family, friends and fishing. Sometimes I take my son fishing with a few friends. When he was younger, it was too scary having him near the water, but now he can swim and he understands when Dad says, “It’s freezing cold today and I won’t be coming to get you if you fall in”.

I signed up with the CFA because I thought it was a way to put something back into the community. It’s a great feeling when you’ve helped someone out and it’s not been a tragedy in any way. Part of my role is the “Brigades in Schools” program to help educate kids. You get to talk to them and hear their stories. I love that part of the job. We invite the parents to come along too, to try and get the whole family on the same page so they know what to do if something goes wrong.

We talk to people about why it’s important to get ready for summer. We tell them: “Make sure your property is neat and tidy and clean. Don’t leave firewood stacked up near your house. Keep your gutters clean. And if you plan to leave in an emergency, leave early and leave as a family”.

I’m not really into politics, but if I was Prime Minister for a day, I’d bring in a commission system for politicians’ pay. If you make an election promise, you don’t get paid until you deliver on it.

If you have an opportunity to join your local CFA, give it a go.

You don’t have to be out fighting fires – there are lots of other roles. Have a look at the CFA website or ring 1800 232 636 and see what they’ve got on offer. It’s a good thing to do and you get a really good feeling out of it. Well, I do anyway.

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two coast people

Ron: I grew up in the suburbs of Melbourne and joined Woolamai Surf Lifesaving Club (WSLC) at 18 after friends from school bought me down to the Island and showed me the beach and club. I loved both, so I decided to join up. I did my bronze medal in 1966, and – having turned 66 – I’ve been involved in the club for 48 years! Now I’m a life member.

The Channel Challenge began after local publican Lyle Williams from the San Remo Hotel asked the club to come up with an event that could equal the Pier to Pub swim at Lorne.

We thought crossing under the Island bridge (which normally spans a raging tide) and then running back over could work.

The first challenge attracted 57 competitors, and it’s peaked at over 600. It’s grown into a major community event and festival, and this year we celebrate our 30th anniversary!

Dennis Harris and Ron Nicholson have been helping to run the San Remo Channel Challenge as long as they both care to remember.

We talk to the pair about friendship, their passion for sport… and saving Russian generals.

My good mate Dennis Harris and I have been involved in running the event since way back. Dennis joined the club because he had two daughters who were in Nippers. He proved himself to be a dynamic organiser and fundraiser.

He’s served as the Treasurer of the club, and he’s a bit of a raconteur . . . we get on well. He loves telling stories and we both love sport. We hit it off immediately and have been working together for the last 20 years. Dennis is in his 70s now and he could talk the leg off a chair. He’s a very happy, cheery guy who enjoys life, family and friendships.

He and I have had some great adventures over the years, like the day we rescued the Russians…

The Avalon Air Show was on at the time, and the Soviets were bringing out the largest plane in the world. Several highranking officials applied for Australian visas but were refused entry because of their involvement with the communist party.

It was an ordinary Saturday afternoon when I drove down to Phillip Island and stopped at the surf shop at Cape Woolamai.

I noticed a limousine parked out front with a chauffeur standing beside it. I went inside to find a bunch of older, thick-set, Russian guys buying towels and togs. About an hour later, we had a call at the surf club, with someone screaming in a thick accent, ‘The generals! The generals are in trouble!’ We finally figured out that the emergency was at Anzacs Beach.

It turns out it was the carload of guys I’d seen at the surf shop. They’d literally parked at the first beach they’d come to, jumped into what looked like calm water but was actually a massive rip, and were swept out to sea. There were seven Russians in all: the lowest-ranked was a four-star general, and the highest was seventh in the Kremlin! And they actually were in pretty serious trouble. We raced down to rescue them: luckily some board-riders had already started to bring them in. One was suffering from hypothermia, and we took them all back to the clubhouse. Before we knew it, the place was surrounded by federal police, and the top general was refusing treatment until we could convince him that the ambulance blokes weren’t trying to poison him. It became a bit of an incident.

words as told to maria reed photo warren reed & supplied

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When they’d finally calmed down, they thanked everyone and pulled out wads of US dollar bills to buy drinks. Then they opened the boot of the car and bought out duty-free vodka and whisky. Drinking and singing Russian folk songs, they toasted everyone . . . it ended up a very strange day. That night

t wo

coast

they had a function at the Jetty restaurant and invited all their rescuers to come and join them. The tables were set up with crayfish and drink, and we were all invited back to party in Melbourne. We had a massive night.

It was front-page news in The Age the next day. One of the comrades gave a surfer a jewel-encrusted pen, which ended up being worth over $5000! As it turned out (though it’s never been confirmed), some of the top-ranking officials who’d been refused entry had come in incognito on the Russian freight-plane. They weren’t supposed to be here, so they denied it all to the newspapers. I rang the Russian embassy on the Monday and they said that the Russians were never even at Phillip Island . . . the story was all fabricated – so they said!

Dennis: I’m a born-and-bred Islander. Going back, our clan was among the first twelve families to settle on the Island.

I grew up on a dairy farm that also grew chicory. I went to school at Ventnor with about 17 other kids and we had a great life. We used to ride horses down to the beach, play football, cricket and go surfing. It was in the days before leg-ropes and wetsuits, and if you lost your board you’d have a long swim to retrieve it. I built my own board in ‘56 and we’d go surfing at Summerlands and Cat Bay. My wife Kathy was involved with a Nipper program in Cowes for over 20 years, and my daughters went through the Nippers at Cowes, so that was my introduction to the surf club. The girls finished up as patrolling Lifesavers, and my eldest, Kylie, was the first female patrol captain at the club. When they left Australia and went travelling they worked as lifesavers in Spain and Portugal. I’d just sold my business in Melbourne and the club was struggling with equipment, so I got involved in the fundraising side.

Ron was a lifesaver at the WSLSC when I first met him. We just clicked, and found we had very similar interests including

people

football and golf. I was involved with the Channel Challenge, and then Ron came along and stepped in to help, and here we are . . . 30 years later. Ron is a great person to work with and a true friend . . . and he is also an amazing asset to the surf club. In 2007 we won Best Surf Club of the Year for the whole of Australia. That was a great achievement! We were the first Victorian surf club to have that honour. Our president, deputy president and club captain were all women! I think that was the most pleasing thing that happened in my time with the WSLSC. I was a pro runner back in my younger days (not that I thought I was very good). Merv Lincoln used to call the races back then and he nicknamed me ‘Followed By.’ I always wanted to do the Channel Challenge, but I was busy helping run it. What I love about the Challenge is that it has become a great community event. We’ve had an amazing array of competitors over the years – great stories and personal bests.

One of my funniest memories – and he’ll probably kill me for telling you this – was about the local legend and fisherman Ray Dickie. He’d pick the tide for us on Challenge day and let us know when it was safe for the swimmers to cross. Ray had some flares left over from his fishing days and he’d let one off at the start of the race from a little holder on the pier. On this particular day, he lit the flare and it tipped over. There were some young cops in a police car nearby, and the flare flew over everyone’s heads on the pier and rolled under the police car. It looked as if a bomb had gone off. It was one of the funniest things I’d ever seen. These four young constables from Melbourne bailed out of the car, with smoke going everywhere. He never lived that down.

Ron and I have also been involved with The Cowes Classic and Island Swim, these events are shared with the Phillip Island Football Club and the Surf Club. This has given us a great rapport with the local community and made us many friends.

coast 21

Over 200 artworks for sale. Commissions available Exciting new courses running next year. Check out our website.

Shop 7/8 Edward St Somerville Open 10am - 5pm 7days a week.

Phone: 5977 8724 Mobile: 0408 833 260 cp@cpgalleries.com.au Cheryl’s work can also be viewed at the following galleries: tusk gallery 438 Chapel St, Sth Yarra 9827 3338 & 76 Harold St, Camberwell 9882 2174 Suburban Gallery 312–318 New St, Brighton 9592 1772 Gallery Sorrento 148 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento 5984 4933

www.cpgalleries.com.au

BEACHSIDE LIVING THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY

Titled land now selling from $249,000 Civil construction is now complete at Woolamai House.

Secure your place in Phillip Island’s most sought after location for a beachfront lifestyle that can’t be matched.

Organise a private inspection today - contact Greg Price or Cameron Watters on 5952 5711 or email cowes@alexscott.com.au

Churchill Island Newhaven

>

Phil

lip Is

land

woolamaihouse.com.au While best endeavours have been used to provide information in this publication that is true and accurate all entities accept no responsibility and disclaim all liability in respect to any errors or inaccuracies it may contain. Prospective purchasers should make their own inquiries to verify the information contained herein.

Roa

d

Airport

Melbourne 90 Mins San Remo

Alex Scott and Staff - Cowes 113a Thompson Ave Cowes 3922

coast 23

We’re dreaming of the ultimate wish list for Christmas or any time at all...

All i WANt

Shorelec Marshall MG Series 100 watt head with cabinet RRP $1199

for christmas

ArtRooms Framed 20 image RRP $349

Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery 18ct white gold pave set diamond band 18ct white gold Ceylon sapphire and diamond ring.

POA

Voyage Fitness Membership from $8.95 per week

coast 24

Cheryl Petersen Galleries “Elk” Painting on canvas POA

Wonthaggi Home Appliances KitchenAid Mixer RRP $799

Cape Winds Vintage Print Cushions RRP $99

Mercedes-Benz Berwick C 250 Estate with an AMG Package RRP $83,828 Drive Away

coast 25

the Boogie Brian Taranto has woven a magic life through the twists and turns of rock and roll. Never on stage, Brian is the maestro of ‘merch’ and a formidable music promoter in his own right.

Brian Taranto’s backstage take on the music industry is a little different from most. He is still the music biz – but with a twist.

This music lover says he can party as hard as anyone but then has to wake up the next morning and answer 150 emails – before breakfast.

Born and raised in Dandenong with both Sicilian and convict heritage, Brian got his foot in the rock ‘n roll door straight after school. He started out sweeping floors at the Mushroom Records building then, after a week, he was flogging Little River Band t-shirts for eleven dollars each at Billboard nightclub. “I was very fortunate to be there right at the beginning of music merchandising in Australia. I was young and, like a good Dandenong boy, I always did what I promised.

People seemed to like me and things just kept evolving.” From getting in on the ground floor of the rock’n roll merchandising industry in Australia, he now owns half the company where he began his career along with Michael Gudinski, as well as running his own company ‘Love Police’. >

coast 26

mAN

words sally o’neill photo warren reed & supplied

From getting in on the ground floor of the rock’n roll merchandising industry in Australia, he now owns half the company where he began his career

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He promoted his first concert tour in 1997 with legendary bluesman, Tony Joe White. “It came purely from being at gigs and realising – ‘Yeah, I’m just the t-shirt guy at the back of the room, but I know what everybody does, so why not give it a go?” So he did. “I was totally funding the gigs with my own money, but it wasn’t a big deal. I didn’t have to go to a bank for a million dollars. I have been very fortunate: I’ve never borrowed a cent for business. But it’s not rocket science. You do a budget, and if the figures say no, then if you’re smart, you don’t do it.”

Designing his first merchandise range was memorable. He got creative with the Cruel Sea’s ‘This Is Not The Way Home’. “It was exciting for me. I drew the designs by hand and faxed them to their manager. I don’t even think they ended up doing merchandise for the tour, and they were too scagged out to know who I was! But it was exciting and convinced me that I was able do that sort of stuff!”

“I’m still like an excited kid that has music posters on his wall and buys records.”

Promoting Tony Joe White was “incredibly exciting and amazing” and touring with Gillian Welch and David Rawlings was near perfection. “They are just as close to the real deal as you get. I’m good friends with those guys – it’s like touring with Hank Williams or something, you know: there’s no bullshit, it’s just about the music and it’s what it is.”

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He was there when The Strokes were supporting You Am I for $500 a night. “Just being around what was probably the last real explosion of honest rock and roll was really exciting. One of the most important albums of the 21st century was released when they were playing for us in Australia.” He’s also worked with The Black Keys for many years. “Now they are giant rock stars and it’s just incredible that I get to share in that success.”

But the main reason Brian is stopped in the street and hugged by fans (yes really) is for his part in creating Boogie Festival, an underground event he describes as “a f*#@ing religious experience”. While sitting backstage at Meredith Music Festival one very hot year, Brian and a group of friends conjured up the idea of a little event with just a few hundred people, good bands, food and booze, and not too much pressure.

“A friend’s family had a property nearby and I was going to be touring Tony Joe White, so I thought we could get him to perform,” Brian explains. “We just told some friends and actually forgot to even advertise!”

The first two years were “sort of a joke”, but things got a little bit serious in year three. They “kind of advertised” and put on a line-up that he still argues is the best. “Dan from The Black Keys, the Eddy Current Suppression Ring and a bunch more.

323 people showed up and it was the wildest thing I have ever seen.” The Boogie Myth was born. “My favourite moments >

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“I was bought up in a working-class family with a great work ethic – we just work to deliver what we say we will.” of each year are when I do the morning DJ set at Boogie. I play 45s of old country, Neil Young and Dylan. I absolutely love it.”

His latest brainchild, the ‘Out on the Weekend’ festival, was staged in Melbourne recently. “This is truly my 100 per cent vision of a perfect weekend. To be able to share the Americana style of music I’m passionate about is amazing. I’m still like an excited kid that has music posters on his wall and buys records. I love it, I love it all. It all still thrills me and makes me feel cool and gives me a great living, which is fantastic!”

Now residing in Bondi Beach, Brian enjoys swimming in the ocean with the Icebergs and still visits family in Wonthaggi and Leongatha whenever he can. He has fond memories of surfing on Phillip Island, hoping he’d catch a glimpse of his hero ‘Shirl’ from Skyhooks, enjoying burgers from Dutchie’s takeaway and seeing Ian Moss at the Tarwin Lower Hotel.

And he carries his family’s influence with him. “It’s shocking and surprising to me how often people don’t deliver what they say they are going to. I was bought up in a working-class family with a great work ethic – we just work to deliver what we say we will.”

Brian is pumped about the future - especially for ‘Out On The Weekend’. “My five-year plan is to have Neil Young play solo here. That’s not unrealistic to me. If the next four years go to plan, I’ll have the money to do it. You’ve gotta go for something, and that’s where I’m aiming!” And when that happens, this good Dandenong boy will be in the crowd drinking a funky cocktail and watching from the back of the room where it all began.

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WEST GIPPSLAND ARTS CENTRE WARRAGUL

...come as you are...leave changed

WEST GIPPSLAND ARTS CENTRE WARRAGUL

Pirates of Penzance – 20th Anniversary Production 3 March, 11am The Gilbert & Sullivan Company of Australia return with the award winning Broadway musical, performed with a cast of only six!

Containing all of the great musical delights and hysterical comedy scenes that have had audiences on their feet with laughter and applause for over 100 years.

The Paris Underground Cabaret : 18 March, 8pm A subversion of the classic French cabaret and variety show. Draw the curtain on a stage that will darkly seduce and intoxicate through a moveable feast of magic, song, dance, burlesque, comedy, circus and cabaret.

The Heartstring Quartet 19 March, 8pm Two of the most important names in Irish music, legendary guitarist Arty McGlynn and virtuoso fiddler Nollaig Casey are joined for this special project by Máire Ní Chathasaigh, “the doyenne of Irish harpers” and Britain’s finest flatpicking guitarist Chris Newman.

The Centre of Choice in Gippsland Corner of Smith and Albert Streets, Warragul Bookings: 5624 2456 Find us on www.wgac.com.au Facebook At Last, The Etta James Story 28 March, 8pm A two-hour narrative concert starring Vika Bull. Vika brings her heart, soul and funk to tell the story of Etta’s turbulent life and sing her best loved songs. Joined on stage by the sizzling hot The Essential R & B Band that will get you out of your seat and dancing in the aisles!

Tom Burlinson: Simply Sinatra 17 April, 8pm A swinging celebration of the music and career of the legendary Ol’ Blue Eyes . Tom sings over 20 of Sinatra’s greatest hits and talks with considerable knowledge of some of the highlights of his extraordinary career. Tom will be accompanied by his swingin’ band.

Kelly 26 May 8pm Ned Kelly is about to hang for his crimes, and his brother Dan needs Ned’s blessing and forgiveness. So begins a brutal confrontation by two titans of Australian history. Facing the sins of their past, each blames the other for their downfall. And neither will escape unharmed.

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DeCemBer Glimpses of Summer - works by Fred Colla, Dylan Shearsby & Ross Wilsmore Until 18 December Manyung Gallery Sorrento, 113a Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento Contact: David 9787 2953 www.manyunggallery.com.au Christmas with a Coastal Bent Until 24 December Manyung Gallery Mount Eliza, 1408 Nepean Hwy, Mt Eliza Contact: Sharyn 9787 2953 www.manyunggallery.com.au Cleopatra’s Banquet – works by Diana Campbell, Gil Freeman, Les Guilfoyle, Anne Middleton & Leonard Ramsay 2-31 December, 10am-3pm Inverloch Community Hub, 16 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Contact: Elisabeth Jones 0401 338549 “By the Book” Annual Exhibition of the Gold & Silversmiths Guild of Australia 6 & 7 December, 11am-4pm (official opening) The Goldsmith’s Gallery, Bridgeview Arcade, Shop 3,157-159 Marine Pde, San Remo Contact: Bronwyn Pratt 5678 5788 Website: www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au Living Choices Workshop & complimentary lunch 11 December, 11am Mountain View Leongatha, 1 Dale Drive Contact: 1300 306 255 admin@mountainviewleongatha.com.au Dyson, Stringer & Cloher 12 December, 8pm Meeniyan Town Hall www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au A Joyous Christmas – Gaslight Company 12 December, 11am West Gippsland Arts Centre, Cnr Smith & Albert Sts, Warragul www.wgac.com.au Christmas Twilight Market & Family Fun Night 13 December, 5-9pm State Coal Mine, 19-37 Garden Street, Wonthaggi Contact: Vicki Villella 5672 3053 www.facebook.com/WonthaggiStateCoalMineCafe Wonthaggi Make it, Bake it Market 14 December, 11 January, 8 February, 9am-1pm McBride Ave, Wonthaggi (Near Wishart Reserve) Contact: Hannah Quilford 0417370488 info@wonthaggibussinesses.com.au Dean Ray 20 December, 8pm West Gippsland Arts Centre, Cnr Smith & Albert Sts, Warragul www.wgac.com.au Mixed Christmas Exhibition 20 December – 8 January Manyung Gallery Sorrento, 113a Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento Contact: David 9787 2953 www.manyunggallery.com.au

summer 2015

events guide Christmas Lunch 25 December. $105 per person, bookings essential Silverwater Resort, 17 Potters Hill Rd, San Remo Contact: Simon Wooding 5671 393 www.silverwaterresort.com.au Annual Twilight Market 30 December, 3pm-9pm Old Dalyston Deli, 74 Glen Forbes Rd, Dalyston Contact: Kelvin Simpson 5678 7377 www.olddalystondeli.com Beyond the Valley 30 December – 1 January Back Beach Rd, Phillip Island Contact: info@beyondthevalley.com.au www.beyondthevalley.com.au New Year’s Eve Dinner & Live Music 31 December, 7pm The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant, 11 Beach Rd, Rhyll Contact: 5956 9520 – bookings required www.theforeshore.com.au Hanging On - David Frazer 14 December – 17 January Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 / 0423 721 593 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Waves Exhibition – Annette Spinks Throughout summer – call for opening times Art Studio And Gallery, 60 Dixon Street, Inverloch Contact: Annette 04185 55222 www.annettespinks.com.au McClelland Sculpture Survey and Awards 2014 December 2014 to July 2015 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin, Vic 3910 Contact: info@mcclellandgallery.com www.mcclellandgallery.com Kongwak Market Every Sunday over summer (except 21 December) Kongwak General Store Contact: Jane 0417 327 637

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summer 2015

events guide

feBrUAry San Remo Channel Challenge 7 February, 4pm San Remo Foreshore Contact: Michael Sullivan 0409 798 867 Lazy Sunday Afternoons – live music with Bern 8 February, 4pm-7pm The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant, 11 Beach Rd, Rhyll Contact: 5956 9520 www.theforeshore.com.au

JANUAry Exhibition: Yanakie Dreaming - Anne Roussac-Hoyne Until 28 February (also open weekends through December) Waratah Hills Vineyard, 20 Cottman’s Road Fish Creek Contact: Judy 5683 2441 www.waratahhills.com.au Music at The Hen 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 January, 6-8pm Purple Hen Wines, 96 McFee’s Rd, Rhyll Contact: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au Frisbee Golf 3, 10, 17 & 24 January, 11am-2pm Blue Gum Reserve, 101 Dunsmore Rd, Cowes Contact: 5952 2811 – Phillip Island YMCA www.basscoast.ymca.org.au Summer of Soul 10 January, gates open 12noon Mossvale Park, Strzelecki Hwy www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au Billy Carts & Rocket Blasts 10 January, 10am-4pm Churchill Island www.penguins.org.au Live Music on the Hill with Bern Carroll 10 & 31 January, 3pm Silverwater Resort, 17 Potters Hill Rd, San Remo Contact: 5671 9393 www.silverwaterresort.com.au Crossing the Simpson - Mandy Gunn 15 January - 9 February Wonthaggi ArtSpace, 5-7 McBride Ave Contact: 5672 1415 The Bower – Sarah Dingwall & Julie Niekamp 18 January – 21 February Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Contact: 5683 2481 / 0423 721 593 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Living Choices Workshops and complimentary lunch 22 January, 11am Mountain View Leongatha, 1 Dale Drive Contact: 1300 306 255 admin@mountainviewleongatha.com.au Kilcunda Lobster Festival 25 January, 9am-4pm Kilcunda Foreshore car park www.kcda.org.au

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Living Choices Workshops and complimentary lunch 11 February, 11am Mountain View Leongatha, 1 Dale Drive Contact: 1300 306 255 admin@mountainviewleongatha.com.au Moonlight Movie Night 20 February, 6pm-10.30pm Newhaven College – 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Sunset Strip Contact: Newhaven College - 5956 7505 www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au/events Leo Sayer 26 February, 8pm West Gippsland Arts Centre, Cnr Smith & Albert Sts, Warragul www.wgac.com.au Between the Bays Music Festival 28 February, 2pm-10.30pm Penbank School, Rickards Rd, Moorooduc www.betweenthebays.com Cowes Classic 28 February, 2pm The Esplanade, Cowes Contact: John Weston 0418 366 324 www.islandevents.org.au Serenade at Sunset 28 February, 5pm Grantville Recreation Reserve Contact: Chris Hutton 5678 0738 www.serenadeatsunset.com

mArCh Phillip Island Nature Parks Community Open Day 1 March, 9am Free entry to all Nature Park attractions www.penguins.org.au San Remo Rotary Art & Photographic Show 6-9 March San Remo Recreation Centre Contact: Phil Dressing 5952 5443 www.sanremoartshow.com.au Inverloch Art Show 7-9 March, 10am-5pm Community Care Centre Inverloch Contact: Margaret - 5674 1436 / 0412 144 483 mimibythesea6@bigpond.com

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The ‘Waves’ Series will be exhibiting throughout Summer at her Art Studio and Gallery.

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summer 2015

events guide

Our pick of events this summer Yanakie Dreaming – Anne Roussac-Hoyne Local assemblage artist Anne Roussac-Hoyne has found a new direction.

Inspired by a recent workshop at Meeniyan Art Gallery on the African technique of dying textiles with mud, and passionately referencing indigenous Australian ochre painting, Anne is using natural earth pigments on canvas to interpret life and the landscape around the Corner Inlet area where she lives. Most of the 400-million-year-old Devonian Liptrap Formation rock she grinds to create her medium is sourced from her own grazing property.

Waratah Hills Vineyard, 20 Cottman’s Road Fish Creek 5 December - 28 February.

Cellar door open (great lunches available) 11am-4pm on weekends, public holidays exc Christmas and Boxing Day, and daily throughout January.

Phone: 5683 2441 www.waratahhills.com.au

Beyond The Valley If music is your thing, treat yourself this New Year’s Eve with a serious glamping package at the newest festival on the block – Beyond The Valley. You’ll be right in the heart of the festival fun, enjoying the kind of benefits you’d expect from a luxury hotel. Fresh linen, hot showers – room service, anyone? Not to mention food-trucks, boutique beer and a cocktail bar. Then add a 70-band line-up that includes some of the hottest acts on the planet and you’ve got pretty much the perfect way to bring in 2015. Final release tickets (including general camping) are on sale now.

30 December – 1 January Phillip Island Circuit, Back Beach Road www.beyondthevalley.com.au

Womadelaide Waves Exhibition - Annette Spinks Moving to Inverloch gave Annette Spinks the chance to fully explore her love of the ocean. “I am so fortunate that I get to see the ever-changing ocean, every day. One day it’s beautiful and enticing; the next, fierce and angry. I love the changing moods, colours, tides and swells.” Her Waves series captures the energy and movement of the ocean, and using resin and acrylic gives the paintings a liquid, almost 3D feel.

Art Studio And Gallery, 60 Dixon Street, Inverloch Open throughout summer – call for opening times Contact: Annette 04185 55222 www.annettespinks.com.au

Simran Sethi has been named as one of the planet’s top ten eco-heroes, and this environmental messenger will be at Womadelaide 2014 as one of their Planet Talkers (alongside people like Bob Brown and Andrew Denton). As usual, the Womad folks have put together an amazing festival line-up, and tickets to the 2015 event are selling fast. Musical highlights include Nenah Cherry, First Aid Kit, Youssou N’Dour and Rufus Wainwright.

6-9 March Botanic Park, Adelaide www.womadelaide.com.au

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Jess Laing calls the ocean her office and says she found herself in the waves. With ‘Girls on Board’ she’s spreading the word and coaxing girls of all ages into the surf. Coast’s Katie Cincotta heeded the call…

Surfing SiSterhooD My nose touches the wet sand, my body flat against the hand-drawn outline of a surfboard, arms kicked out like chicken wings, toes scraping the scratchy shoreline of YCW Back Beach with its spectacular grassy bluffs. Jess Laing is head-to-head with me, guiding me through the motions that will lift my body – knees tucked in, lead foot forward, arms gripping the 9ft Gboard – ready to hoist myself up and forward on the thrust of a wave.

It’s a Wednesday morning, cold and overcast, 10 degrees, winds whipping through this remote stretch beyond Smiths Beach, and in the distance I can see the powerful rise and crash of five-foot swell. In minutes I’ll be out there, adrenalin willing me forward, as I follow my ‘Girls on Board’ mentor out into her office – the ocean – which she describes as the only place on earth where you can feel both detached and at one with the world. “It’s a very special connection that I have with the ocean, the rawness of it. Any troubles that you’re having, you can escape from that. You forget everything.”

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Salt-water therapy, she calls it. On her Instagram feed @girlsonboard1, she posts an inspirational quote about the emotional power of surfing.

Sometimes, you just need a break. in a beautiful place. alone. to figure everything out.

That journey to self-understanding began on a family holiday to a windswept headland of northeastern NSW, in the surfing mecca of Byron Bay. Jess’ father and brother were avid surfers, and it was only a matter of time before they set the tiny toddler to work too. “Dad put me on a 9ft surfboard when I was four. I stood up and rode all the way to the beach on that first wave.” More than 18 years later, she’s still out there – surfing, teaching, inspiring, passing on everything she knows and loves about being on a board in the big blue. Only now, after retiring from competitive surfing and forging a career as an instructor, does the Island girl truly appreciate what surfing means to her – a way of life, and not just point scores on a card.

words katie cincotta photos warren reed & cait miers

'

“Dad put me on a 9ft surfboard when I was four. I stood up and rode all the way to the beach on that first wave.”

'

Jess began competition surfing when she was eight, riding the high professionally until she was 18, when a terrible shoulder injury brought her career crashing down. While filming the movie “First Love”, the teenager fell off her board at Cape Woolamai and dislocated her shoulder, ripping the ligament right off the bone. “It wasn’t a huge wave that smashed me, and it popped back in on its own. But I eventually needed surgery and I was out of the water for seven months.”

current is flowing, and how to handle myself up against those forces. I wrap the Velcro strap around my ankle: it’s my lifeline to the giant curved slab of foam that will propel me through the crescendo of waves now arching up and over the shallows. Kicking into the water, it’s biting cold, sharp on my bare legs and forearms. But waist-deep and moving through the white spray, the goose bumps dissipate, and I thank my Sicilian forefathers for the hot pulse of Italian blood that keeps me impervious to the cold.

Grounded on land, unable to surf, Jess describes that dry spell as a ‘horrible time’ where she battled the physical and mental drain of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. “Surfing was pulling me through, and then that got taken away from me, so it was a pretty low point. I would come down to the beach but I couldn’t even look out there. It was so hard.”

Jess turns the board towards the shore, tells me when to hop on, toes over the back, chest up, hands gripped around the board’s sides, and then coaches me through each movement as the wave moves in. The incoming rush is a shock, rocking me sideways and into the drink. But I’m back on the board quickly, determined to get my balance. Jess is grinning at me, eyes sparkling, telling me how well I’m doing, how my upper body and core strength (earned at Boot Camp) is helping me propel my body across the fluid surface. >

Today, her gaze is intense, surveying the water, looking for danger, explaining to me where the rips are, which way the

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Despite having rips either side of the 400-metre beach, with waves at an average height of one metre, Jess regards YCW as a safe surf beach – the best place to learn. It’s quiet here, remote, with only one other surfer in the water, local model and fashion entrepreneur Rhys Uhlich. I keep glimpsing Rhys behind me in the big breaks, skating across the waves with his chiseled jaw and streaky blonde locks, smooth-gliding like he’s super-glued to the board. It’s a nice distraction, but I won’t be sucked into his Zoolander-Does-Point-Break antics. Today, I am the surfer, not the spectator. I am the seal, not the walrus. I am the girl who learned to swim when she was five, the kid who once stubbornly hurled herself off the Cowes pier to see if she could swim all the way to shore on her own.

The salty wet is in my eyes, my mouth, and my nose. I feel both the weight and the lightness of the ocean bear down on me, and I’m starting to understand that its rhythm is not my own; that unless I follow its lead, I’ll be punished. After more than 30 minutes of hoisting myself onto the board, hooking in, pushing up, falling off, wading out, my body begins to tire. I can feel the muscle-wrench in my wrists, my biceps, my abdomen, and my thighs. But I know I can do this. I feel I’m close. My timing is getting better. Jess sees it too, and says she’s going to push me out onto the wave at just the right time, and let go, leaving me to glide alone under her watchful eyes.

Her confidence in me is infectious. As we laugh together, plunging back into the waves, you can sense her pure satisfaction in seeing fresh eyes open to the power of the sea, watching someone learn to surrender to their fears and immerse themselves in the steady flow of the incoming waves – for her, it’s still a rush, even from the sidelines. When it happens – that perfect circle of upright motion – it takes me by surprise. I’m standing on the board, arms out, face forward, teetering and then still, flying, as if in slow motion, and those few seconds feel like a precious eternity enclosed inside a snow globe, where the world is silent and private and

calm. My husband, girlfriend and a local photographer are chatting together on the sand, DSLR and GoPro cameras in hand, pointed down, oblivious to my stupendous milestone.

I’m screaming at them, fists pumping in elation, stupidly forgetting my form, and then I crash sideways, white foam drenching my ego, filling my shrill woops with a mouthful of reality.

That is the first lesson in philosophy that surfing will teach you.

The ocean is the master, and you are merely a humble student trying to fit into its endless ebb and flow. Jess is behind me, a joyous high-five at the ready, genuinely excited that I’ve gotten to my feet, and tasted that sweet little victory. It’s what she does now over summer – lead beginners into the surf – women, children, seniors – hoping the salty magic of the sea will seep into their bloodstream.

At 22 she’s kitted up with a van, racks of surfboards in the back, her hippie bunting flags along the ceiling – brandishing a very cool logo that looks part-Puberty Blues part-Holden Sandman, a swirl of psychedelic colour in a yin and yang circle. It expresses everything her business is about – the joy of surfing.

In just a few hours, I have fallen under the surf’s hypnotic spell.

I want to get a board. I want to get better. I want to join this surfing sisterhood that has sprayed summer with hot pink surfboards, printed spring suits and shiny shellac nails. As euphoric as surfing is, it also makes you feel strong. It pushes your body to its limits, hurtling it into perpetual motion, forcing your mind to melt into the moment.

I don’t need a photograph of that first surf. It’s imprinted on my heart.

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

I’m standing on the board, arms out, face forward, teetering and then still, flying, as if in slow motion, and those few seconds feel like a precious eternity… coast 40

'

… she’s still out there – surfing, teaching, inspiring, passing on everything she knows and loves about being on a board in the big blue…

'

coast 41

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coast 43

life At itS limitS words katie cincotta photos warren reed & supplied

coast 44

In our Spring 2013 edition, Coast talked to former Gippsland resident Jessica Holden about her work with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Since then, Jess has travelled to one of the most war-torn places on the planet and experienced a life that most of us could never imagine.

“I know how long it takes for somebody to bleed to death.”

It’s a chilling observation for a young doctor to make, but 29-year-old Jessica Holden says the seven months she spent as an Obstetrics Manager for Médecins Sans Frontières in war-torn Pakistan exposed life stretched to its very limits.

By Western standards the shielding garb may seem medieval, but Jessica says that for local Muslim women it’s a familiar ritual. Here, only five per cent of females are educated, with the majority on a set course to a perpetual cycle of pregnancy and birth. “In this region, from what I saw opportunities available to women are extremely limited, and are primarily to have children and be a good wife. A daughter can sometimes fetch a higher bride-price if her mother has had many children.”

Raised between her mother in Yarram and her father in Sweden, and now one year into her six-year Obstetrics and Gynaecology speciality at Monash Health the poised blonde – who smiles with the entire breadth of her strikingly-angled face – sits in perfect contrast to the ditzy, dithering baby-birther Nina Proudman, “…opportunities played in eccentric fashion in TV series Offspring by Asher Keddie. Jessica is calm, available to women measured, with an inner strength that belies her years – the kind of woman you sense are extremely will never settle for an ordinary life. “I got limited, and are into medicine because I realised there was a deficiency in women’s health care in rural primarily to have Australia, and as I’ve gotten further into my career I’ve realised there are countries far children and be a worse off than us.”

good wife.”

Her most recent service to Médecins Sans Frontières was in the town of Chaman on the border of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The traditional Muslim region dictates women wear a headscarf, burqa to cover the eyes, and a full-length dress covering the ankles. Jessica dressed in all but the burqa, and says while it initially seemed strange, she felt more secure following the local dress code.

“Wearing that attire makes you stand out less.”

Jessica says the pregnant women she treated in Pakistan would come for antenatal care but most of them would deliver at home in their village.

“The decision to seek care is not necessarily the woman’s – it is often made by her husband and mother-in-law. In spite of this, it’s taboo for men to know about women’s health, pregnancy and labour.” For those few women offered medical assistance during childbirth, getting to a doctor was half the battle. “Women quite often arrived in labour – lengthy, obstructed labour – on the back of a motorbike with many others, or on a horsedrawn cart.”

It was those precarious cases that challenged Jessica most– in a society where she felt a woman’s body is not her own. Only a husband, father, brother or uncle can give consent for a Caesarean section, and this was often refused – even when a baby was in danger – as it was deemed surgery that could limit a woman’s future childbearing capacity.

“People told me: ‘– It’s more important that she (the mother) live so that she can have more children’. It took me quite >

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a while to get used to hearing that. It’s a difficult thing to witness, because that’s my job, my profession, to make sure the mother and the baby both come away alive.”

Jessica says she often found herself fighting for an unborn life.

“Arguing doesn’t help. Finding responses like: ‘This baby might be a boy and he’ll bring you lots of prestige’ is often what I found it takes to convince some families. A son is celebrated, a girl is a girl.”

In that war-torn region used as a supply route into Afghanistan, Jessica says you become accustomed to hearing a volley of gunshots, but it’s only when a bomb-blast sends in a stream of bloody casualties that the peril of the task sinks in.

“In this conflict work, you either feel the desire or need to do it, or you don’t. You have to have that strong dedication. It’s too hard, too scary, and too risky otherwise.” One day, Jessica was standing in the ER, moving among a mass of broken bodies, when a second explosion shattered the hospital’s windows.

She remembers seeing the air ripple above her, literally in slow motion, as she crouched behind an internal concrete wall wrapped in her traditional headscarf, an eerie silence permeating the space after the boom.

When the mental fog of the emergency dissipated and her body drained of adrenaline, Jessica took time to write down her thoughts, choosing not to tell her family about the explosion until her return. “The day after an explosion, people are frightened to go out in public, so it was a quiet clinical day.

That afternoon I really felt the need to express my feelings, partly for my mental health. I needed to write down what had happened.” She says the experience was unforgettable for many reasons, including her own surprisingly cool response to the crisis. “I was not panicked, stressed, scared or overwhelmed. Not once did I think ‘I don’t want to be here’.”

But those high-octane days of searching for metal objects in exposed flesh and suturing wounds under flickering lights were interspersed with soft, poignant exchanges between a young white female doctor and her South-Asia patients. One woman who thought she was four months’ pregnant after her periods had stopped produced a negative ultrasound.

When Jessica informed her that she was actually going into the early stages of menopause, she reacted with pure elation.

At 46, she had given birth to 24 children, and finally – now barren – she could reclaim her body. “One of the reasons this work is addictive for me is that you have that amazing sense that people really, really appreciate what you’re doing. Every patient says ‘thank you’, even for the little things. Its a very powerful and energising workplace.” Once, while travelling by cab into the capital of Islamabad to renew her visa, her somewhat arrogant fellow-passenger was keen to know how much of the local Pashto language Jessica had learnt. He was taken aback when she eventually succumbed to his demands to demonstrate her knowledge of the local dialect. The Pakistani driver burst out laughing and said to the Frenchman: ‘Sir, she ask if you have white vaginal discharge.”

After seven months of intense service in politically-charged Pakistan, returning to work as an obstetrics registrar in Australia has not been without its challenges. Helping women who have the freedom to speak and choose for themselves, a bevvy of expensive drugs on hand and the luxury of every medical precaution available is a stark contrast to the dusty plains of Pakistan. “We had fewer medicines, so I became used to getting by with limited supplies. Every time I was about to

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Jessica is calm, measured, with an inner strength that belies her years – the kind of woman you sense will never settle for an ordinary life.

do a vacuum delivery for a foetal distress, the power seemed to go off. Even the dummies we trained on were makeshift – I used pieces of foam from the market to make a fake vagina, and we practised stitching on those.”

In 2015 Jessica would like to be deployed to another country in need, and says the work is so rewarding she intends to work with Médecins Sans Frontières intermittently for the rest of her life. While relationships with fellow aid-workers are easier, “relationships are challenging to negotiate. You need to have someone very understanding of the work and you have to be apart for very long periods of time. It’s a lot to ask of someone, to wait for you while you go off to a war zone.” So, she’ll travel with a suitcase, a phone, and a laptop, still high on the euphoria of what it means to guide unborn offspring from the safe cocoon of their mothers’ wombs, along the stretch of the birth canal and out into the world to take their first breath.

Spell and the Gypsy Collective, Arnhem, Steele, Lilya, Primness, Zulu and Zephr, Arrow Divine, Celeste Twikler, Local designer Shelley Shapcott (Luxe Tropic), Krystal Knight

fashion, art and home-wares

1/75 Chapel St, Cowes 7 days, 10am – 5pm Phone: 0422 377 904 email: shellsanchia@hotmail.com Luxe Tropic Facebook / Instagram

123 Marine Parade, San Remo

Telephone 5678 5202

the

joy

of gift giving

Open: Monday-Friday 9am - 6pm Saturday 9am - 12.30pm (extended hours in December & January)

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Horseback Winery toUrS If you’re planning a visit to the Mornington Peninsula, Horseback Winery Tours is a mandatory stopover. When you turn into the property with its extensive white fences separating mounting paddocks from dressage stables, you’ll discover that Horseback Winery Tours is located on a stunning part of the peninsula and boasts spectacular views. With over 40 well-groomed and equipped horses stabled in a modern and beautiful facility, this is truly a world-class establishment.

The 28-acre property has its own vineyard, and neighbours some of Australia’s best-known wineries, many of which can be visited on the company’s unique and increasinglypopular tours. Director Alisha Griffiths is a very experienced equestrian who is passionate about sharing her love of horses with everyone from expert riders to first-timers. If you haven’t ridden before, one of Alisha’s carefully-chosen guides will accompany you on a gently-paced jaunt to some of the peninsula’s finest wineries, restaurants and attractions.

A typical three-hour Discovery Ride takes you through the surrounding vineyard region of Red Hill and Main Ridge to taste award-winning wines at Montalto, Tuck’s Ridge, Red Hill Estate, Manton’s Creek, T’Gallant, Ten Minutes by Tractor and Green Olive. Travelling on horseback, you’ll get the opportunity to truly savour the beauty of the countryside.

There are plenty of different choices available, including ‘Ride and Lunch’ packages and Adventure Rides. Specialty packages such as ‘Ride and Bathe’ or ‘Ride, Play and Stay’

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include passes to the Peninsula Hot Springs in Rye, a round at the picturesque Moonah Links Golf Course or swim with the dolphins at Moonraker Charters.

With Christmas just around the corner, a Horseback Winery Tour gift certificate is a brilliant gift idea for special family and friends, especially those that can be a little hard to buy for.

Imagine the fun when they open your gift to find that they’re soon to be off aboard a beautiful new four-legged friend discovering the joys of the peninsula. Gift certificates are valid for 12 months, and as they can be purchased online and are instantly available, they are also the perfect solution for those last-minute gifts.

Horses are carefully matched with riders, catering for the absolute beginner to the very experienced rider – there’s a package to suit everyone.

To view the company’s top 10 gifts, visit www.horsebackwinerytours.com.au/gift-certificates

The perfect Christmas gift...

Horseback Winery Tours Gift Certificate

Our gift certificates are the perfect present for this Christmas.

Catering for absolute beginners to experienced riders.

Our packages include “Ride & Lunch”, “Ride & Bathe”, “Ride & Play” & many more…

To view our Top 10 Gifts visit: www.horsebackwinerytours.com.au/gift-certificates Gift Certificates are instant and online, valid for 12 months.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Rides depart 10am & 2pm 6 days a week (our horses rest on Tuesday)

EXPERIENCE MORNINGTON PENINSULA’S FINEST, SOME OF OUR WINERY & PACKAGE PARTNERS . . .

356 Shands Road, Main Ridge, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria CALL US: 03 5989 6119 EMAIL: info@horsebackwinerytours.com.au

2014 Victorian Tourism Awards

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A life At

Sea

“It’s about self-reliance, when you’re out at sea: you are the boss and have to be able to cope with any situation.”

words sally o’neill photos warren reed & supplied

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Snow Lacco is a true man of the sea. For over sixty years the ocean has been his home as he’s navigated his way through a fishing career that few can match.

Growing up in Dromana in the 1940s, Kenneth Mitchell Lacco (known since childhood as Snow because of his white-blonde curls) often went fishing with his father and grandfather. Both professional fishermen, they took the young lad out onto Port Phillip Bay in search of couta and flathead.

At fourteen, he came home from school one day and his Dad said, ‘Let’s go fishing’. And he meant it: it was time for Snow to go to sea full-time. “I think all my books are still there at the school,” he laughs from his home at Newhaven on Phillip Island. It was frightening, and he often got seasick in those early days. “I would have liked to go to school, play football and have a life on land, but fishing was all I was to know.”

Between 1954 and 1960, Snow, his father and brother toured Bass Strait carefully setting and bringing in craypots day after day. They navigated safely around Wilsons Promontory and Flinders Island employing only the traditional skills taught by his grandfather. >

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“You can always come back tomorrow to retrieve gear - you can’t get back a life.”

In 1969, he bought his second, larger boat. With the luxury of licences for both Victorian and Tasmanian waters and quotas in each, he pushed south, fishing out of Hobart and on Tasmania’s west coast. He mastered these treacherous waters where many boats are lost. When the weather turned, he preferred to take shelter up-river or in safe harbours.

“I learned how to navigate using charts and lighthouses for guidance,” says Snow. “We had a line with lead weights on it covered in dripping. We’d lower it down and, if it came back sandy, we knew it was too shallow. If there was a dip in the grease, we knew we’d hit rock and it was okay to set our pots”. Knots on the rope recorded the depth in fathoms, a measurement he still uses today. “There was a lot of guesswork and it was hard, dangerous work, but it was all I knew.”

As there were no cameras and little leisure-time, so the majesty of these beautiful craft live on largely in his memory.

From the couta boat used in Port Phillip Bay with sails made by his grandfather, they moved to larger vessels as they ventured further. They graduated to a 30-foot cray boat, ‘The White Wave’, that allowed longer trips into the open waters of Bass Strait. “Bass Strait is said to be one of the worst stretches of water in the world, but I don’t know any different.” And it would be fair to say that he has probably explored more of it than most.

He grew older and more impatient with his father and brother and he knew it was time to establish his own operation. “I was itching to be able to do things my own way.” He bought the ‘Betty Mc’, a 46-foot cray boat, assembled a crew and got to work, embarking on trips for months at a time. They would leave San Remo in October and not come back into harbour until March. In those early days, Snow recalls a “living mass of crays”, pulling in 20-30 dozen a day and getting about “two bob a pound”.

“I used the barometer and got to know the weather patterns.”

Without radio, GPS, depth-sounder or any of the tools relied upon today, each trip was a major exercise in self-reliance and skill. The crays would be kept alive in a holding pool until they reached port and, with no refrigeration, the fresh food would run out pretty quickly and then it was down to tins.

On one of his rare trips ashore he met his wife-to-be Jenny, who spied him working on the jetty as she got on and off the school bus. They married in 1962 and went on to have two daughters and a son. Jenny kept the home fires burning at their Newhaven house.

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He can recount times when the waves looked “100-foot high” and moments when he thought, ‘This is it.’ But his calm method and skill always saved him. “You just take things at your own pace and take care,” he says. “You can always come back tomorrow to retrieve gear – you can’t get back a life.”

Snow spent the last ten years of his professional fishing career working alone around the Bass Strait Islands. The world of fishing changed around him and he gradually adjusted. “I was the last person in the fleet to fit a GPS,” he explains. “It’s about self-reliance, when you’re out at sea: you are the boss and have to be able to cope with any situation.”

In the 1980s, this self-reliance was recognised by the illfated National Safety Council under the guidance of the controversial character John Friedrich. Snow was employed to drive the rescue boat and train others in rescue and water safety. He enjoyed the role, yet still wonders at some of the operations he was involved in – those he is allowed to talk about. “I had to sign a confidentiality clause and everything, but it was a great era for the organisation, which was well ahead of its time.”

Today Snow works a few days a week at sea on a wildlife cruise tour boat, volunteers at the local community art gallery and is involved with numerous groups and committees as well as still enjoying short fishing trips with the children and grandchildren.

And, in his shed at Newhaven, he spends hours crafting exquisite timber replicas of Australian lighthouses, many of which guided him safely through his six memorable decades at sea.

Unique, bespoke and creative jewellery for every occasion

“

Mem

“BY THE BOOK” Members Annual

The Exhib

“Gray Re

“BY THE BOOK”

The 25th Anniversary Book is finally available. To celebrate its release we have Exhibition 2014 named the annual exhibition

156 Collins Str Phone info@grayre

“BY THE BOOK”

Members Annual Exhibition 2014

The Exhibition then travels to:

TM

“The Goldsmith’s Gallery”

The 25th Anniversary Book is finally available. To celebrate its release we have named the annual exhibition

Handmade, Well made, Australian made Bridgeview Arcade TM

Official Opening: Official Opening:

The Exhibition opens at:

“Gray Reid Gallery” th th

6

“BY THE BOOK”

23rd October 2014

6pm 2014 onwards & 7 December & closes 22 November 2014 10am - 4pm and will be on display until 31st January 2015

156 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000 Phone: 9560 7700 info@grayreidgallery.com.auTM

nd

TM

157 - 159 Marine Unique Jewellery | Watches | Repairs | Classes | Rethreading | Commissions | EarParade, Piercing San Remo 3925

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Phone: 9560 7700 Regular Classes & Exhibitions visit: www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

Shop 3 - Bridgeview Arcade San Remo

The 25 available na

phone. 5678 5788

We grow, make and bottle on Phillip Island Beautiful Cellar Door with stunning bay and farm views Music and other events - see the website for details

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 & Wednesday) Ph: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

B e s t P i n o t N o i r, B e s t S h i r a z a n d B e s t W i n e o f S h o w - 2 0 1 4 R AC V G i p p s l a n d W i n e S h o w coast 53

words rebecca matthews photos warren reed & supplied

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ma m ag a giiicc g mAkiNg

At the gateway to Wilsons Prom, the charming untouched country exterior of Foster hides a wild, creative heart. Talulah Rae and Damien Twomey are building a life in this gorgeous corner of the world, with a riotous melding of film, theatre, love, family and circus arts.

It didn’t take Talulah ‘Lulu’ Rae very long to realise that a desk job was never going to be for her. Sitting in front of a computer after completing her double degree in graphic design and visual arts, she thought, ‘What am I doing this for?’

Originally a professional dancer, Lulu returned to her first love, performance, and was drawn to the circus arts. She taught herself hula hooping, fire dancing, and how to be a clown... even how to dance on broken glass. “Circus appealed to me,” she explains. “It’s so colourful. There are so many things you can do in circus with all the different kinds of forms that it takes. It’s fun and it can tell a story. I love creating characters.”

She started out working in the world of corporate entertainment, dancing and spinning fire, then developed a diverse range of characters, including The Smokin’ Talulah, Mistress Tinsel, The Cotton Candy Queen, Marzy Flimnap and Consuela Lollypops (who resides in The Fantasmagorical Dream Confabularium). Taking these characters to arts festivals helped Lulu develop a network of ‘carny’ performers, and led to paid work producing shows and co-ordinating artists.

After rescuing an old two-tonne box-trailer, she transformed it into ‘The Strumpet Absinthe Salon and Exotic Imaginarium for Madmen and Persons of Questionable Morals only’ – a mobile theatre decadently furnished with velvet curtains and a chandelier inspired by her favourite aesthetic of Art Nouveau and the lavish, celebratory era of Belle Epoque. The miniature theatre seats up to 15 people, complementary absinthe is served on arrival, and guests are treated to an array of entertainment including cabaret and burlesque. Every year, Lulu and The Strumpet travel to the Adelaide Fringe festival and the Rainbow Serpent Festival in Western Victoria.

In 2013, Lulu met Damien Twomey. Cue a whirlwind romance.

A year later, the two are living in a mudbrick home in Foster with their four-month-old baby boy, Jolie Fiasco Twomey. “I’m not a true carny,” laughs Damien. “I married into it. Now I’m part of the circus.”

Damien studied film theory at university and is now making his own short films. Inspired in part by the black and white fantasy worlds created by Federico Fellini, he saw a perfect >

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…a mobile theatre, decadently furnished with velvet curtains and a chandelier.

opportunity to capture Lulu’s carny colleagues in his films.

Moving to Gippsland, he saw ready-made film sets in some of the backstreets of the local towns where the buildings hadn’t been modernised, and so had retained their character. “If you want to do period pieces, it’s all here: you don’t have to build it. Everywhere there are amazing buildings and amazing history.”

The couple now collaborate on all their work. Damien goes on the road with Lulu and The Strumpet, and short film viewings are now part of their festival repertoire. Collaboration with other artists has always been a big part of the picture, says Lulu. “The best thing about my work is that I am creating a platform for other people to showcase their own work and express themselves in a particular way. They’re big festivals, there’s a lot of people seeing these artists’ work.”

While they will continue to spend several months each year at larger festivals, Damien and Lulu also have a lot of plans closer to home. They are settled in South Gippsland and, like many artists who move out of the city, they feel a close connection with the landscape. “It’s the best of both worlds here: you’ve got the beach and you’ve got the bush,” says Damien, who particularly likes the rolling green hills. “It’s a beautiful, soft landscape.” Producing work for small, local community festivals is definitely on the agenda for 2015.

They’ve formed The Magic Theatre Company, which includes hosting ‘imagination playgrounds’ for children to create their own theatre, arts, crafts and performance, with story telling, photo-booths, puppet-making and circus workshops on offer.

The Strumpet is making an appearance at Foster’s Pearl Park during the biennial Prom Coast Seachange Festival and will

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host musicians from the local community and perhaps even a lantern parade.

Whatever lies ahead, it is sure to be filled with colour, creativity…and children! “Kids can still see the magic in the world,” says Damien. And, in a nutshell, that’s what it’s all about, he says. “Creating magical spaces and places... anything but growing up!”

Kelly & Gemelli Contemporary Art & Design Gallery

Detail of “The sun always shines in San Remo, reagrdless of authority series #47” Adriano Gemelli | Reflective hologram & mixed media

We have unique art works to express your individuality 57 Phillip Island Rd, San Remo | (03) 56785101 | 0419 544 588 Open 9am – 4pm Fri to Sun (extended hours during Summer refer website for details) info@kellyandgemelli.com | www.kellyandgemelli.com

Wilson Botanic Park Berwick is 45km southeast of Melbourne.

• Native/Exotic flora • Picturesque views • Plant fossils • Children’s playground • Lakeside vistas • Special Events • Historical site • Picnic Areas Bookings essential for Wedding ceremonies/photography

Princes Hwy, Berwick 3806 Tel: 03 9707 5818 www.wilsonbotanicpark.com.au coast 57

Summer soul SoUNDS It’s the festive season and Mossvale Park’s Summer of Soul is putting the ‘happy’ into our holidays, with a stellar line-up announced for the festival on 10th January.

The Cat Empire and Paul Kelly’s Merri Soul Sessions are heading the bill, two acts that on their own would guarantee an amazing day out, let alone when they’re supported by The Melbourne Ska Orchestra, Mojo Juju, Perch Creek and Marlon Williams.

Lyrebird Arts Council’s Ian Bevington says that when he was putting the Summer of Soul line-up together, his reference point was ‘happy’. “Summer of Soul is about good times with friends, hearing great music, getting out your dancing shoes.

Every year, the feedback we get from the artists and the audience is that it’s such a relaxed, friendly festival.”

That’s set to continue. And to help you find your happy feet, Coast has put together our quick-pick guide to the Summer of Soul sounds.

The Cat Empire is a guaranteed good-time festival favourite that always gets people up and dancing. With over 1000 shows to their credit, their set will include new music and old favourites. Musical mayhem.

Paul Kelly returns to Mossvale Park to introduce his Merri Soul troupe in a special soul revue. Clairy Browne, Vika and Linda Bull, Dan Sultan and Kira Puru join Paul onstage, bringing together Australia’s finest songwriter and five stunning vocalists in their first Victorian performance. Spine-tingling.

With Nicky Bomba at the wheel, the Melbourne Ska Orchestra is a 26- strong magical musical tour guaranteed to get your feet moving. They’ve been nominated for Best Live Act at this year’s Aria Awards. Big band.

Swinging, sleazy, and loaded with sin … just some of the descriptions tossed around for Mojo Juju, an outfit that draws inspiration from jazz, early blues, soul and rock ‘n roll.

Jumping jive.

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Roots, folk and rock. Guitars, banjos and trombone. Siblings.

Tap-dancing. Mix it all together, add a pinch of salt and you get Perch Creek. Creative cooking.

With a voice that sounds almost celestial, it’s no surprise Marlon Williams was once a choirboy. Another Kiwi we should adopt as our own, he’s a little bit country with a whole lot of soul. Angels weep.

Getting there: Mossvale Park is 14kms north of Leongatha (on the Strzelecki Highway) and two hours from Melbourne (down the South Gippsland Highway).

Being there: A single stage surrounded by open lawn and giant trees. Bring a blanket, your dancing shoes and a smile.

Eat, drink, be merri: You can BYO picnic and alcohol, or feast on a tantalising array of food and wine from local vendors.

Funky craft stalls also on site.

Tix and information: www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

Coast Magazine and Lyrebird Arts Council are offering two lucky readers the chance to WIN A DOUBLE PASS to this year’s Summer of Soul.

Visit our Facebook for details: www.facebook.com.au/ CoastMagazineAustralia

Artfusion

Sculpture and Glass Studio Gallery Steel Sculpture Fused Glass www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com

Open Thur to Mon 10:30am–5pm 9 Anderson Rise, Anderson, VIC

Andrew 0407 368 538 Marlene 0439 368 538 coast 59

LINEN

& lace

artist profile

words maria reed photos warren reed

Women with seductive lashes and plump red lips sit demurely on aged canvas and linen, while pops of colour and pattern enliven the line-work of Peninsula artist Monica Adams. We delve deeper into the fabric of this creative soul to find what inspires her vibrant work.

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As a girl who spent many hours painting with her grandfather, Monica’s passion for art began to grow. “Mum would take me to the National Gallery and the opera,” she recalls, touching on yet another path in her creative journey. While studying graphic design, she was introduced to oil painting, and she smiles at the memory. “I just fell in love with it.”

It was her time at Monash University that taught her the skills of the professional artist. “It was all very traditional. We learnt about technical drawing and painting techniques, and how important studio time was.” After four years she graduated with honours. “It was a wonderful time . . . we got to paint every day.”

'

Her work features an iconic style of woman from the 40s and 50s – “the eyelashes and lips represent the feminine character, – you get a feel from them.” She describes her love for the antiquity of pattern and how it adds to the aged feel of a piece. “I’ve always painted women. I used to do quite abstract women, but over time they have become more figurative.”

She also paints urban landscapes, but at the moment she’s focused on the figure. “I like change as it keeps me fresh and moving. I’ll often go to Fitzroy or Brunswick and take photos of people moving through the urban landscape: people still feature in my landscapes.”

It was her time at Monash University that taught her the skills of the professional artist.

She started an art school with a fellow student from uni, and says, “Pretty much, that’s what allowed us to pay for our studio and continue working regularly.” They hired an old shop and ran art classes and a small gallery for over eight years.

Her style is described as figurative with abstract elements.

She paints in oils and uses different techniques to create an aged looked on the canvas. “I use the traditional method of glue-sizing that maintains the cream of the canvas. Using oils on Belgian linen allows the linen to shine through.” The artist admits to a love of pattern. “I used to go to the National Gallery and look at the old Impressionists. Get up close and you can observe the pattern they did with the colour . . . I simply loved it.”

'

The 43-year-old mother continued her creative work throughout her children’s early years, stealing away to paint while they slept. Now she exhibits regularly and teaches classes at Manyung Gallery in Mt Eliza. “I really enjoy teaching.

At the moment I’m taking a lot of 10-11 year-olds, and they love it as I teach them drawing skills, and encourage them to explore their own ideas.” She also teaches adults, simplifying the skill of drawing so they can take that into their painting.

“It’s a great process when you teach someone. It’s almost like you’re learning all over again as you get that creative feedback,” she smiles. >

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Monica Adams Beauty Icon Series

Beauty Icon Series Blue, 167cm square, oil on canvas.

Monica Adams is represented by the Manyung Gallery Group and her new series of beauty icon paintings can be viewed online www.manyunggallery.com.au or at any of our three galleries.

Sorrento 113A Ocean Beach Road

Mount Eliza 1408 Nepean Highway

Malvern 8 Claremont Avenue

Enquiries to staff@manyunggallery.com.au or [03] 9787 2953 View 150 artists and 2000 artworks online. In home advice, mobile gallery and hanging service.

She is inspired by the French Impressionists, and contemporary painters Jenny Saville and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Describing the act of painting, she reflects, “I loved it from the moment I held a brush. Being able to spend a whole day in the studio is just heaven. It can be challenging at times – when you have to work through a piece that isn’t gelling, but I’ve always felt very lucky to have this ability.” She has been working on canvas and linen for over 20 years now, and confesses to loving what she does. “It’s not always easy; you can get frustrated, but I’ve always painted what I wanted and people have bought my work, which allows me to keep painting . . . which is just wonderful.”

Monica was drawn to the creative energy of the ocean, and now lives in Rosebud, on the Mornington Peninsula. “I have a little house and a studio set in the garden . . . it’s a lovely place to live as an artist. She renovated the studio with big, old windows and doors that provide a lovely outlook to the garden. “It’s a very relaxing space.”

Her present classroom, set in the courtyard gardens of the gallery at Mt Eliza, could not be more perfect. Students are surrounded by sculpture and artwork sheltered under large, shady trees. Monica moves from easel to easel, giving advice and encouragement to the budding artists. “It’s such a great environment. My students can walk around the gallery and be inspired by the selection of artists on display to create their own work.”

She loves the immediacy of being in the gallery environment.

“For the most part, as an artist you are busy painting in your own studio and you can tend to hibernate somewhat.

Teaching at the gallery allows curators, art lovers and students to talk to you about your work – it’s so great to be able to get that feedback,” she says.

“It’s a great process when you teach someone. It’s almost like you’re learning all over again as you get that creative feedback”

She exhibits regularly with Manyung at its Mt Eliza, Malvern and Sorrento galleries. “Manyung is also part of the Singapore Art Fair every year,” she adds, and tells me she has 12 works over there currently. “I’ve been quite busy over the past couple of months creating enough work to exhibit, so I’m looking forward to a little break over summer.”

“I’m quite lucky, I think. I can work at home and teach in a beautiful environment. I work quite hard, and while most of my work is exhibited in Melbourne – with a little bit in Perth – I’d love to show my work in Sydney and New York. That is definitely an aspiration for the future.

If you would like to see more of Monica Adams’ work, visit www.manyunggallery.com.au

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed & supplied

friends for life The inspired work of a group of passionate teachers is proof that sometimes ‘just doing something’ can make a world of difference.

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“When you see the children together, they are mates. They play as children do.” Vivienne Wearne’s eyes sparkle as she describes the interaction between the Victorian and Northern Territory children at Penbank and Wugularr primary schools.

Children playing together doesn’t sound so remarkable, but when 3,500+ kilometres separate the schools, it’s clear that maintaining this connection is quite a feat.

Vivienne is Principal at Penbank, an independent school nestled in 35 acres of bushland in Moorooduc. Since 2009, the schools have taken it turn about for groups of students, teachers and sometimes parents, to visit each other. These annual visits are the joyful face of a serious reality. The two schools are so entwined the partnership has its own identity – it’s known as Wugubank.

It’s an ambitious enterprise and keeping it afloat requires extraordinary passion and energy, which fortunately Vivienne has in abundance. Alongside key staff members Paul Thompson and David Quin, Wugubank has profound ramifications for everyone involved. As well as opening both groups of students’ eyes to the reality of life outside their local community, it provides hands-on support for the Wugularr school.

Long before Wugubank came into being, the staff at Penbank were concerned about the way Australian history was taught in their school. The school explored training options, including working with Worawa Aboriginal College in Healsville. When a Penbank teacher requested extended leave to teach at Wugularr, Vivienne took the opportunity to visit the school, located in Beswick, an hour and a half from Katherine, in the Northern Territory. The trip was a rude awakening. “The staff and students were so in need,” says Vivienne softly. “It was a newly-built school. Library books were still in boxes. There was no librarian, no art teacher. I thought, ‘We’ve got to send some people up to help’.” Penbank’s art teacher and librarian were duly despatched.

While some conditions in Beswick were confronting, the visitors also found a wonderful warmth and openness. “When you get out into that community you are greeted with smiles and waves,” says David Quin, Penbank’s Education Support Teacher. “If you approach people in a positive, open manner, you get back twice what you give.” Paul Thompson, who looks after Penbank’s Enrolments and Development Program, agrees. “We’re embraced now. People know that we are trying to do a good thing.” Overcoming the initial cynicism has taken time and persistence. “They refer to white people as paper bags – because they blow in and blow out,” smiles Vivienne.

“They blow in with all their ideas about what they’re going to do.”

The paper-bag syndrome made Vivienne and her team determined to stay the distance. “Once we started going there we thought, ‘We can’t pull out’ because that’s what everybody else has done.” Still, the team is realistic about the challenges and social problems this small community faces. “Although it is an absolutely beautiful environment, there are some awful problems there,” says Paul. All three have stories of children dealing with violence, abuse and drug addiction. And they openly admit that they don’t have all the answers.

But that hasn’t stopped them jumping in to help in the area where they do have knowledge and expertise – children’s education. For Vivienne, the focus has always been on the schooling. “When I looked at the talents of the children, I saw that they’re artistic, they’re athletic, they’re rhythmic and musical. These are their strengths, yet there was not one teacher that could support those specialist areas of the curriculum. I wondered why these children didn’t have access to the sort of education they needed. Yes, they need to read and write and understand maths, but that’s not what’s going to hook them in.” >

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It’s an ambitious enterprise and keeping it afloat

So, since 2009, Penbank teachers and staff have regularly travelled up to help out at the school. Over the years, the team gained the trust of the students and community and are now known as “the Penbank mob”. While there are success stories – some youngsters from the original Wugularr group that visited Penbank are now in secondary school – attracting quality teachers to the school and getting students into the classroom remains an uphill battle. In the six years since Wugubank began, Vivienne has worked with seven different principals. “At the heart of the matter is a capacity problem,” says Vivienne. She jokes that Prime Minister Tony Abbott won’t talk to her about her ideas for a solution, but you can sense in all three more than a hint of frustration at the way schools are managed in remote aboriginal communities. “I would love to say to the government: ‘Give us a go at changing the system’, because it couldn’t get any worse,” says Paul, smiling wryly.

David agrees. “Imagine if every school had a relationship like this – a buddy school. Then the government wouldn’t need to put hundreds of millions of dollars into other programs.”

The ideas keep tumbling out. “Teachers get double the wages if they teach in these schools,” chimes in Vivienne. “But they have to demonstrate they can lead, and that they are excellent teachers, and they have to commit to spending three years there.” There is an open invitation to Mr Abbott and local MP Greg Hunt anytime they’d like to hear more.

In the meantime, Vivienne, Paul, David and rest of the Penbank mob continue to put people on the ground and help Wugularr in any way they can. “We are educators. We are about educating children. That has to be our purpose up there,” says Vivienne. “In doing that, we will continue to build a relationship with the children, with their parents and their grandparents. We are in for the long haul.”

requires extraordinary passion and energy

Keeping Wugubank on track takes more than passion and commitment. It also takes money. The key fund-raiser for this extraordinary project is the annual Between the Bays Music Festival. It’s a truly family affair: you can bring your picnic rug and enjoy some great music, workshops, art activities and kids’ rides, all in the beautiful school grounds.

On Saturday 28th February 2015, Between the Bays celebrates its tenth anniversary with a fantastic line-up that includes James Reyne, Mark Seymour, Custard, Wagons and Indigenous Hip Hop Projects.

Jump online to buy your earlybird tickets at www.betweenthebays.com or purchase them at the gate. You can support the Wugubank project with a donation through the ticket page or by contacting Paul Thompson at Penbank School on 5978 8425.

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P R E S E N T E D

B Y

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Funding the future for our community

The hard work of community groups and organisations in Bass Coast, and hours of dedication by the volunteers that run them, make up the heart and soul of many small communities.

Having the ability to fund projects, infrastructure and events, however, can sometimes prove difficult.

“We congratulate all of the groups that were awarded funding,” Mayor, Cr Kimberley Brown, said.

not-for-profit groups and organisations, such as community houses, sporting clubs and arts groups.

This is where Bass Coast Shire Council’s Community Grants Program steps in.

“The Community Grants Program provides funds for small projects and programs and it is evident that for many groups a little bit of financial assistance through a Community Grant can go a long way.

“I encourage all not-for-profit community groups or organisations to consider if they have a project that requires some financial assistance,” Cr Brown said.

Council offers community groups and organisations opportunities to apply for community grants four times a year, with one major grants round and three general community grant rounds held for the 2014-2015 financial year.

So far in 2014, Council has awarded almost $160,000 in grants to over 70 projects and events, with two rounds yet to be announced.

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“It is also acknowledged that groups will contribute many hours of in-kind assistance and their own funds towards a majority of the funded projects.”

Community Grants funds have been awarded to a range of projects and

Council funds projects in all shapes and sizes, as you can see by some of the grants awarded so far this year.

• Wonthaggi Neighbourhood Centre at Mitchell House used a $2,500 as a contribution towards documenting the story of Karen refuge people coming from Burma to our community. The documentary aims to broaden cultural understanding, challenge stereotypes and promote social inclusion and the principles of community harmony through an inspiring story of the successful settlement of the Karen refuge people from Burma in our community.

• Bass Coast Specialist School was awarded $5,000 to provide a swing that can be accessed regardless of physical ability. A nest swing is used by wheelchair students, mobile students and students with severe intellectual and multiple disabilities.

• To aid sight impaired bowls players, Combined Pensioners purchased two sets of bowls to use at Newhaven Indoor Bowls with an $800 grant; one yellow and one black, as well as a Jack ball. These bowls have contrast for people with poor sight so they can enjoy their experience and keep bowling. The old, dark coloured bowls will now be donated to the San Remo Primary School.

• Phillip Island Community Orchard planted around 65 fruit trees last summer, which were hand watered by volunteers over the dry period. They used a $4,685 grant to purchase irrigation materials and an excavator necessary to water the first quarter of the orchard site and dig another 30 fruit tree holes in preparation for the next planting.

• Cowes Community Committee Incorporated will now be able to preserve the important historical oral and built heritage of Cowes thanks to a $2,500 grant.

The Committee will make two short movies based on the Cowes East and West Heritage Walks, narrated by local historians John Janssen and Julie Box, which will provide the basis for developing an app that celebrates the History of Phillip Island.

• A $2,500 will fund the ‘Songcatcher’ project by the Bass Coast Acoustic Music Club, which seeks to capture existing and encourage further locally written songs that tell stories of life and nature in Bass Coast and the South Gippsland hills - “From the coast to the hills”. The project consists of documenting the musicians and their songs, and a music festival to include song writing, workshopping of songs and presenting them to the people of Bass Coast and South Gippsland.

• The objective of YMCA Wonthaggi’s newest project, funded by a $2,500 grant, is to deliver education sessions to a range of social and cultural groups of mixed age and gender, with the aim to reduce violence against women in the community.

If you would like to find out more about Council’s Community Grants Program, or apply for a grant in 2015, visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/grants or call 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211.

Bass Coast Shire Council 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211 Fax (03) 5671 2222 National Relay Service 13 36 77 basscoast@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Expression of Interest (EOI) for the provision of Graphic Design, Printing and Signage Servicescoast 69

g n i f r su PhilliP iSlAND

a n a v r ni

There are few sights more beautiful than driving over the hill into San Remo and seeing Phillip Island laid out before you, surrounded by blue glistening water shimmering in the summer sunshine.

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed, henry mckay

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For years, surfers, holiday-makers and day trippers have trekked to Phillip Island in search of a beachside escape. The rugged, unspoilt beauty of the coast attracts visitors from across the globe, while surfers are lured by the promise of a perfect wave. With an amazing array of breaks suitable for every different skill level, somewhere there’s a wave waiting, regardless of the size of the swell or the direction of the wind.

In March last year, former World Champ Layne Beachley, launched the Phillip Island National Surfing Reserve (NSR), formally recognising the national and international significance of the Island’s amazing surf breaks to the surfing fraternity. Four individual areas were nominated - Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Cat Bay and Summerland – a tribute to the unique natural beauty and iconic breaks of each site. Plaques outlining the significance of each area have pride of place at these breaks and have already become favourite photo-opp back-drops.

The motto of the NSR is to Share, Respect and Preserve, so whether you want to wax up your board and paddle out, frolic in the shore breaks or simply sit on the shoreline and breathe in the majesty of the ocean, we are all able to enjoy the Phillip Island beach experience.

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CAPe WoolAmAi

The Island’s largest patrolled beach is home to the Woolamai Surf Lifesaving Club. There are breaks beloved by surfers right along the Woolamai coastline, but for the casual beach-goer, you cannot go past the Clubhouse. Surf Lifesavers, a large carpark and a kiosk make this a prime summertime destination for families.

With breath-taking views, miles of crystal blue sea and golden sand, this is a true Aussie surf beach. But take care, its huge waves and rips can catch the unwary off guard. As well as the world-class surf, the amazing nature walks along the Cape are definitely worth exploring. When you are done with sun, surf and sand, maybe drop by one of the thriving cafes or food stores nestled at the top of Woolamai Beach Road or explore the local surf and fashion stores.

SmithS BeACh

For many families, Smiths Beach is the perfect location for a beachside escape.

Experienced surfers can take on the big barrel challenge of Express Point, while groms and body surfers will find plenty to enjoy in the gentler, consistent waves at Smiths Beach and YCW. A number of surf schools also operate from this location, so if you want to suit up and experience the thrill of surfing, there’s no better place than this to live your dream. In summer, this place is teaming with visitors and regular holiday-makers.

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SUmmerlAND

As any surfer will tell you, when the south-facing beaches are onshore, it’s time to head to Cat Bay. Nestled inside the boundaries of the Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Penguin Parade, this area is a mecca for the old-time mal riders, but the array of breaks provide something for everyone. Visitors on their way to the Nobbies can pull into the the Cat Bay car park and recapture the spirit of the 60s watching the big guys on the big boards riding to the shore.

Credited as being the birthplace of the Island’s surfing scene, it’s also the home of the other famous inhabitants – the Little Penguins. The iconic reef breaks are favourites for long boarders and mal riders. If you are going to the evening Penguin Parade, get there a little early and take in the breath-taking vista from the Summerland viewing platform.

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FIRST TIME I SURFED AN NSR BREAK “Cat Bay in 1977. I was 10 years old and my dad pushed me onto the waves on a mal.”

Michelle Fincher – Cape Woolamai, nurse

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MY PERFECT SURF “Cape Woolamai, consistent 5 to 6ft, incoming tide, late afternoon/early evening glass off. A perfect right and left peak that has plenty of different sections to it that gives the surfer plenty of options when surfing it.”

Billy Yousko – Cape Woolamai, teacher and President of Phillip Island Boardriders

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“If I could paddle out with any surfer, it would be Stephanie Gilmore, because she rips.”

- Bonnie Mullens, Sunset Strip, student

“The amount of young groms coming through has increased so much … the outlook in terms of skill and new ideas is really good.”

- Walter Hiatt, Cape Woolamai, student

“Sharing epic waves with great friends and family anytime is unbeatable.”

- Sandy Ryan, Sunderland Bay, Island Surfboards

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“My best PI surf experience was sitting on the Express bluff as a kid watching my heroes Michael Peterson, Rory Russell, Wayne Lynch, Ian Cairns etc carving up perfect 8-10 foot Express in an epic Allan Oke Memorial contest.”

Steve Demos – Smiths Beach, Builder

“The soundtrack to my perfect surf would be Bill Withers and Otis Redding.”

- Kyle Ross – Cape Woolamai, student

Unsurprisingly, the Island has a proud, irreverent and unconventional surfing history. The Boardriders Club, established in 1963 is the oldest continuously running boardriders club in the country and just celebrated its 50th anniversary. The club is as legendary for its celebrations (the roll call of bands appearing at Boardriders Balls reads like a who’s who of Australian music) as it is for protecting and nurturing local surfers.

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Mackaloucoo Retreats PHILLIP ISLAND

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Bookings and EnquiresMackaloucoo Retreat -Jeury Crt, Cowes, Phillip Island, Vic Aust, 3922

0409 946 064

sam@mackaloucooretreat.com.au

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Newhaven College Tours Newhaven College is an independent co-educational school on Phillip Island offering quality education for students from Prep to Year 12.

We invite you to tour our school to experience school life in action.

For enrolment enquiries, please contact Carolyn Lipscomb on 5956 7505 (Option 1) 1770 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Sunset Strip www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

Tours commence at 9.30am Tour dates: 18 March,17 June, 29 July, 9 September & 14 October Open Day Saturday 16 May 10.00am – 2.00pm

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surf surfer profile

words sally o’neill photos warren reed & supplied words sally o’neill photos warren reed & supplied

Surfing is a great leveller. I can go surfing with millionaires and they are just other guys out in the water.

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Great Leveller Geoff Owens feels most at home out on the waves – the place where everyone is on the same level and united by their love of surfing.

Phillip Island surfer Geoff Owens can’t keep the smile off his face. Although he hasn’t caught a wave for months, he knows he will again soon and that’s cause for this eternal grin. Lady luck struck him recently in a slightly disguised form when he fell off a ladder and hurt his back. During routine tests, they discovered a cancerous growth on one kidney. Found early, the kidney has now been removed and he’s been given the all clear – a lucky break indeed.

His good friends Mick and Peter Baird had a holiday house on Phillip Island, so he tagged along - most weekends. “Every waking moment I looked forward to going down to Smiths Beach with the Bairds in their Volvo station wagon. I never took any food or anything, I don’t know how they put up with me all those years, but they did!” Geoff enjoyed the openness of his friend’s family. “Mick and Pete’s parents John and Fonnie were very forward thinking people. They would always have interesting characters around.”

He cut his teeth at Despite this recent glitch, life has been pretty good for Geoff – a man driven by When he couldn’t travel down with the Bairds, his passion for surfing and giving back to YCW and Smiths Beach he would catch a lift to the South Gippsland Freeway at Dandenong with a check out chick his community in equal measure. From and then graduated to from the supermarket where he worked on his first wave at Ricketts Point in 1972 on Saturday mornings and then hitch from there. an old five-foot plastic pop out board, the beach breaks he fell in love with surfing. “I used to sit in school, dreaming of surfing. I would He cut his teeth at YCW and Smiths Beach and of Cape Woolamai watch the trees and when I saw the then graduated to the beach breaks of Cape Woolamai, which proved quite a change from wind getting stronger, we would head the “load of old chop” of Port Phillip Bay. “It was different, I was down to surf Mentone and Black Rock. We’d ride our bikes in surfing swell which could be big or small and I had to adjust howling gales with our surfboards under our arms - how we to the new conditions.” didn’t get killed on the road, I’ll never know!” Geoff recalls.

Decked out in footy shorts and a woollen polo neck jumper, with a piece of string tied to a hole in his surfboard fin and a hanky tied to his ankle as a makeshift leg rope, Geoff braved the bay. His Mum, Rita, would also happily drive the keen grommets down to Point Leo whenever she could.

Phillip Island was ‘it’ for Geoff and once he got his licence, he spent every weekend surfing. “We rented houses and all put in $20 to cover the rent, just to use it on weekends.” He lived to surf, poring over mags like Tracks between surfs to keep up with the scene. “Everything in Cowes stopped at 5 o’clock>

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Chocolate Cafe

Chocolate Desserts The Phillip Island Chocolate Factory the sweetest attraction on Phillip Island

Home of Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate, a unique, interactive & educational celebration of all things chocolate.

• Daily hot curry lunch from 12 – 3pm • 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 80

in those days with only a few food outlets and the pin ball parlour open in the evenings. I remember watching Ian Cairns and Rabbit Bartholomew and all these future professional surfers playing pinball - that was huge for us. These were the days before the Pro Tour, so all of the big guns would come to any professional contest they could, including Phillip Island’s Alan Oke Memorial Contest.”

Geoff was happy to skip competitive surfing and just enjoy time out in the water with his buddies. Despite their different backgrounds, they were all on the same level in the waves. “I was different to many of the guys, they were what we called ‘diffos’ - because they went to private schools and were a bit alternative. One of my mate’s old man was the Dean of Education at Monash University. So to us he was just ‘The Prof’ but in the outside sphere he was a world-renowned professor.”

“Surfing is a great leveller. I can go surfing with millionaires and they are just other guys out in the water. We can relate on a surfing level no matter how wealthy or powerful people are.

It also allows people to rise above life’s challenges.”

In 1980, 20-year old Geoff moved to the Island officially. He had finished a plumbing apprenticeship and shared a house with mates – all on the dole. “In those days you could sign the dole form and advance it! I went to Bali for six weeks and got paid for two. For six months I was officially part of Malcolm Fraser’s surf team! One day, the guy from the dole office came to visit. We had all the surfboards strapped on the roof of the

Valiant and were heading off for a surf. We quickly jumped out of the car and told him we were going to Wonthaggi for job interviews. He said: ‘Fantastic guys, remember to write it on the form’. We all said ‘no worries’, got back in the car and drove straight to Flynns!”

Geoff met his future wife Cheryl at The Westernport Hotel in San Remo and they have been together ever since. They built a mud brick house on their block at Smiths Beach that extended as the family grew with three children Harley, Ashleigh and Sophie. They moved to Cape Woolamai in 2000 to be nearer to Woolamai Surf Beach – of course!

Surfing has most definitely remained the guiding force in Geoff’s life. “Cheryl will tell you that I only ever think about surfing – especially when choosing holiday destinations!” His surfing safaris have taken him to South Africa, the Mentawis, West Sumatra, Fiji, Europe and more. But Phillip Island’s waves always bring him home with Woolamai always his favourite wave – “you can’t beat it, it’s always changing”.

His passion for Phillip Island is reflected in his strong commitment to the Phillip Island Boardriders Club. He was given life membership in 2004, was president in 1986 and has either been on the committee or an office bearer since 1984.

“It’s just a really good Club and I’ve always loved the social side of it - everyone enjoying surfing and pushing each other in a competitive environment, but still being mates at the end of the day is great. I like helping out and making things happen and for everyone to be happy.” Geoff is also on the working group that was instrumental in creating Victoria’s first National Surfing Reserve on Phillip Island.

On this surfer’s bucket list is more Mentawis trips and spending time with family. “I just feel incredibly thankful that the cancer was found early. Someone pushed me off that ladder for a reason - to give me a bit more time, I don’t know what for…” But I guess he’ll figure that one out with his mates in the surf…

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Wild Oceans ECOBOAT ADVENTURES Phillip Island Nature Parks has launched two new EcoBoat Adventure tours allowing visitors to venture beyond the island’s shores and explore the rugged coastline and wild ocean up close. Dive in to find out more.

There’s a spot along Phillip Island’s southern coastline, between the Nobbies and Penguin Parade that rivals the views of the Great Ocean Road. Look west and the seascape is dominated by gently undulating penguin habitat dramatically punctuated by cliffs that tumble into Bass Strait. Look east and the cliffs give way to the gentle slope of Summerland Beach and the Penguin Parade.

For the first time this rugged coastline can be explored up close on a fully supported EcoBoat Adventure. Phillip Island Nature Parks has teamed up with John Dickie, the island’s long-time local boat tour operator, to offer the new service.

Operating daily, the EcoBoat Adventures takes thrill seekers on a high speed tour to the local Australian fur seal colony and the base of Summerland Peninsula’s cliffs, including the explosive blowhole at the Nobbies.

words & photos supplied

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As locals attest, the waters surrounding Phillip Island teem with wildlife. From June to September, migrating whales such as southern rights and humpbacks are spotted, along with smaller orcas or ‘killer whales’. The whales are undertaking their annual winter migration north from the cold Southern Ocean and Antarctic waters to the warmer climes of northern Australia.

Within 20 minutes of departing from the Cowes jetty, the EcoBoat Adventures arrive offshore to one of the country’s largest Australian fur seal colonies. A ranger-guide from Phillip Island Nature Parks is aboard to give tour guests a special insight into the history and ecology of the colony.

Playful seals surround the boat and duck their heads in and out of the water, while an underwater camera aboard the boat gives a special glimpse of the antics occurring beneath the waves. Visit in January and you’ll see fur seal pups taking their first swim lessons. Look ashore and you may be lucky to spot one of the 300kg male bulls taking charge at a rival.

The return journey takes guests towards the Nobbies and the coastline of Summerland Peninsula. Discover the Aboriginal and European history of the area and get a unique and exciting view of the Nobbies blowhole carved into the cliffs by thousands of years of explosive wave action. Further on as

the tour heads back towards Cowes, the EcoBoat Adventures pass by Cat Bay, a National Surfing Reserve famous for its longboard break. Return to Cowes jetty in time to explore the sights of town before heading out to see the little penguins waddle ashore at dusk for the world-famous Penguin Parade.

With over 20 years of experience, our operator and ranger guides are experts at finding seals, whales, dolphins, penguins and other seabirds. Seating up to 47 people and operating year round, our world-class RIB (rigid-hulled inflatable boat) is also equipped with WiFi. Fitted with four high-powered but quiet outboard engines, the EcoBoat Adventures are the fastest tours available to Seal Rocks.

Tours operate daily with up to three trips per day in the peak summer season. Two tours are on offer: • EcoBoat Adventure: 90 minutes and includes Seal Rocks, Nobbies, Summerland Peninsula and Cat Bay. • EcoBoat Express: 60 minutes and includes Seals Rocks, Nobbies and Cat Bay. Prices start at $85 per adult.

To find out more, visit penguins.org.au, head to a Phillip Island Nature Parks visitor centre, or drop by the EcoBoat Adventures office at Cowes jetty.

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

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But what makes the visit special for every client is the enthusiastic and talented team Carmen has put together.

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Beauty B eachside As I lie back, someone is gently massaging my scalp. Next, a warm towel is wrapped around my head. I breathe in the sweet smell of peppermint … this is such a dream. Fortunately for once, I’m not sleeping: I’m being pampered by Carmen McInnes and her team at Beachside Hair & Beauty in San Remo.

The hair-wash and scalp massage is the first part of my Beachside experience. As she guides me towards the styling chair, Carmen says she used Redken Body Full shampoo to help promote the body in my hair. It is now the job of expert stylist Luci to try and coax my hair into some sort of shape.

To combat the challenge of my baby-fine locks, Luci has enlisted the big guns from Redken’s styling range, talking me through the benefits as she expertly applies each product.

In the wrong hands (ie mine), this could end up an 80s ‘big hair’ nightmare, but fortunately Luci knows exactly what she’s doing. Within 20 minutes, my hair is looking sleek and bouncy and … dare I say it … rather luscious.

Next, I’m ushered to the Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics display, where Kelly is on hand for my four-minute make-over.

This mineral make-up can be tailored to the specific needs of your skin, and we start with the loose foundation, one of the most popular products in the range. “I love it because it feels

like you’re not wearing make-up,” says Kelly. “It is a sunscreen, concealer and foundation in one, and really allows your skin to breathe.” We both agree on the ‘less-is-more’ approach, and the product feels very light and silky on my skin. Talking me through the benefits of eye shadow and blush, Kelly quickly applies shadow and liner and has my cheek bones glowing in an instant, then finishes up with a quick flick of mascara to my lashes and gloss to my lips. I definitely look brighter and better than I did when I walked into the salon!

Before I head off into the evening I get a quick Beachside tour.

The salon décor is a quirky mix that reaches across the decades.

A 1950s industrial bench sits across from 60s-inspired couches, while every hairdressing station has a Smartphone charger.

Visitors can make themselves comfortable outside on the fabulous yellow 50s-style wicker saucer-chair, while busy mums can bring the kids along and let them loose in the kids’ room, complete with toys, books and couches. The front salon >

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The salon décor is a quirky mix that reaches across the decades.

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wall features a Redken display tracing the history of this iconic brand. Although mayonnaise and soy sauce sound more like ingredients for salad dressing, they actually formed the basis of the original Redken products and are proudly on show. The salon has Pureology luxury haircare products, a 100 per cent vegan range and is the exclusive stockist for Cloud Nine irons and wands. The blokes aren’t neglected either, with stocks of the hip New York JS Sloane range, its retro styling harking back to the golden age of Hollywood glamour.

But what makes the visit special for every client is the enthusiastic and talented team Carmen has put together.

“Our team of four stylists is inspired by education, showing

latest trends, techniques and products,” smiles Carmen. “Earlier this year, we worked backstage with the Redken ‘artist tribe’ from leading salons around Australia at Salon Melbourne Expo. I like to think of our ‘Beachside tribe’ as guaranteeing an A-grade, ever-evolving salon tucked away in San Remo.”

Thanks to Carmen and her team, in under an hour I feel totally transformed. Beachside offers cuts, blow-drys, technical colouring, beauty and spa (including tanning and make-up boutique). Get into the festive spirit by treating yourself or a special someone with a service, treatment package or gift voucher. You won’t regret it.

5678 5323 103B Marine Pde, San Remo beachsidehairandbeauty.com.au

San Remo’s quintessential hair and beauty destination for ladies and gentlemen Relax, revive and reinvent yourself

REDKEN & PUREOLOGY Haircare YOUNGBLOOD Mineral Makeup DERMAQUEST Skin Therapy AVIVA LABS Tanning Boutique Gift Vouchers Available

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FAKE IT UNTIL YOU MAKE IT Negotiating the move from the coast to the city is easier when you share it with friends.

For John Moyle, Ruben Bull-Milne and Hannah Burrell, following their dreams has taken them away from the waves and into a world wide-open with opportunity. Coast invited these three young Islanders to collaborate in the writing, photography, publication design and layout of this article.

words john moyle photos ruben bull-milne design hannah burrell

Sometimes you have to make compromises. Which pretty much sums up the large city-bound migration of all the people I know, like a flight of half-clued, highlymotivated muttonbirds. Flying from the undulating, rugged cliff-lines of the coastal country they grew up in, my friends are trading it all in for seas of asphalt, 7-Eleven car parks, university degrees and the seemingly intangible lifestyles they dream of. This semi-navigated flight of about thirty or so from our Rural friendship group landed us in the same southern suburb of melbourne – purely by chance.

RUBEN I live with Ruben, the man making the photos for this article.

He also handles the house financials, doesn’t mop, and makes a hell of a beefburger.

He is studying at the Victorian College of the Arts, producing sculptures, video work, black and white darkroom prints, and various collaborations with other artists. He says he has no idea how he is going to apply what he has learned to any kind of career. It’s a natural concern, given that his particular degree produces an artist employment rate of two per cent.

From being in the same house I have grown used to seeing him in the early hours of the pre-uni dawn in his underwear, cooking breakfast, his thousand-yard stare looking deep into

the yolks of the two frying eggs, staring back at him like yellow windows into some welfare oblivion…

But I know he has nothing to worry about. He has amazing talent, and everyone who has seen his work agrees. Clearly his teachers are confident of his ability– their recommendations for scholarships are proof of that.

Currently one of his pieces – a 12 x 16 ft print – is covering a wall in the George Paton Gallery. Ruben has also been projecting randomly-acquired film slides he picks up at garage sales, and assembling them to create fictitious narratives.

I’m not sure if some part of that is illegal, but it looks fantastic. >

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HER INFLUENCES AND CONSTANT INSPIRATION COME FROM ANIMALS AND THE NATURAL LAND, WHICH WOULD EXPLAIN HER CHOICE TO STUDY SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING DESIGN – AS WELL AS BRANDING AND PUBLICATION – AT SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY IN MELBOURNE.

HANNAH

Hannah did the publication design and layout for this article, and has her path set by the country and her upbringing.

Ever since she was small she has been surrounded by animals – all things from the triumphant ex-race horses she rides, to the sub-normal guinea pigs she keeps. Her aesthetics can be traced to her creative and artistic family. Working part- time in Phillip Island’s Mingara Gallery, owned by her grandmother Noelle, has guided her work to a large degree. Her mother, Lisa, who is also an artist working in metal sculptures and painting, has also largely contributed to her sense of style and love for the environment.

As a part of her final year of university, Hannah is publishing a magazine featuring work from prestigious graphic designers, and exploring the role of narcissism in today’s competitive workplace. Hannah’s other passion lies in creating packaging that lasts as long as the product. She has researched and designed merchandise packaging that is not only biodegradable, but doubles as fertiliser… I have come to realise that as much as she may suffer the usual student angst about her perceived lack of ability, she will likely get another high distinction and gain scholarships of one kind or another. Already she has been invited overseas to participate in projects in Shanghai, Helsinki and Singapore.

JOHN Although I failed high school and have a large record of unemployment, I somehow ended up writing for Melbourne publications and am currently studying writing at RMIT University.

At the moment my portfolio is made up of a journalisticstyle short story on neo-hippies, the failure of the 60s, and how the only thing you can learn from the past is that we don’t learn from the past.

The later stage of my study will be involving all parts of publication and content writing, though as well as this I’m studying history and politics – just because I don’t think I’m quite cynical enough. I’m in way over my head, though one concept I’ve picked up from dealing with professionals for the past year is “fake it until you make it.” Great advice really.

I don’t think it ever feels like you’re ready to do something

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that you love and make a living from it, but so far it seems that you just kind of have to go for it and hope nobody asks you too many questions.

That’s what I’m doing at least. I don’t know about the other two. Either way, we have all found something we love to do and are getting closer to doing it every day, which is a pretty rare thing.

RIGHT: double exposure negative ABOVE: video still from an exhibition

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coast ad 14

17/11/14

11:47 AM

Page 1

Cool art@Coolart 10-27 January Contemporary & Indigenous Art by Gallery Artists

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adventure adventure underground underground Victoria’s State Coal Mine Victoria’s State

Light meals in the Cafe &Mine Daily Tours 40 mins from Cowes Coal

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Daily Tours Daily Tours Victoria’s State Coal Mine Garden Street, Wonthaggi Daily Tours Garden Street, Wonthaggi Daily Tours www.statecoalmine.com.au Garden Street, Wonthaggi www.statecoalmine.com.au Garden Street, Wonthaggi 13 1963 www.statecoalmine.com.au www.statecoalmine.com.au 13 1963 13 1963 40 mins from Cowes

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www.statecoalmine.com.au

phone 5672 3053

Open 10:30am–5pm Weekends, public holidays & most weekdays (phone first weekdays). Cottage rental available 60 Kardella-Fairbank Rd, Kardella (via Korumburra) Phone (03) 5655 2405 Email gooseneckpottery@dcsi.net.au Robert Barron

www.gooseneckpottery.com.au coast 91

A WomAN of

Style

SKETA AUSTRALIA

words maria reed photos warren reed

Paintings Michael Whitehead wwwwhiteheadart.com.au

Adele Pernell is a woman of strength and style. With over 40 years of fashion design under her belt, we find out how this style icon of the Sketa label has maintained her edge in such a competitive industry.

Australian designed and made – Limited quantities for the individual look – Quality accessories Mornington 71 Main Street T 5976 3311 Sorrento 42 Ocean Beach Rd T 5984 0927

and stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa

The fashion industry can thank Mother Superior from Catholic Ladies’ College in East Melbourne for guiding Adele into the arena of fashion design. “To be honest, I was going to study architecture when I left school, but my mother was taken aside and told that architecture was a man’s world.”

Laughing at the memory, she adds that her mother, a talented dressmaker, then encouraged her to investigate interior design or fashion design. She decided on fashion and studied at RMIT, with a course that would allow her to both work in the industry and teach other young hopefuls.

Successfully graduating, she went to work for exclusive Ricardo Knitwear, which designed men’s and ladies clothing.

She won numerous awards from the Australian Wool Corporation, and in her second year, at the tender age of 19, she scooped a bevy of awards including the Supreme Award, the Export Award and the Designers’ Award. She was also runner-up in the Racewear section of the Gown of the Year Awards.

“We did a lot of absolutely gorgeous knitwear in pure, superfine wools from Italy. We supplied Delphine’s, David Jones, and many exclusive boutiques around Sydney and

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Melbourne.” Adele then relocated to Sydney to work with a few large companies. “After 18 months my husband and I moved back to our house in Carlton, as my mother wasn’t well at the time.”

She worked for Robert Blake Pty Ltd, a company that produced “Katherine’s” children’s knitwear. They had thousands of retail stores around Australia and supplied the likes of George’s, David Jones and Myer. At that time, they developed a range of golfing and tennis wear called “Kinetic Sportswear” and also went into ladies’ knitwear. After 10 years, she moved on to a Melbourne-based company that was part of Speedo Group, working as a designer and in marketing development. “We had over 650 people in the manufacturing area, and had our own knitting mills that produced knitted fabrics, thermal wear and leisure wear.”

The company’s closure in 1989 was the catalyst for Adele to start her own business. “ One day, after 8½ years of service, they called in all the executive staff. I was one of 17, and believe me, I was the ONLY woman! They said, ‘Well, thank you very much, but we’re closing down’.” Speedo was taken over by a UK company that stripped its assets and sold the

' rest piecemeal. “After all that, I decided that I wouldn’t be working for anyone else in the future.”

Adele launched her own label the same year. With her trademark dry humour, she chose the name ‘Sketa’ – Aussie slang for ‘mosquito’. She started her business as a single parent with three young boys and just $56,000. “I became tough . . . I had to. I had no husband, three children, and I worked 17-hour days, seven days a week for three years to get the business up and running.” People would often remark on how lucky she was. She smiles: “Darling, luck is seizing an opportunity when it comes past you . . . it’s all hard work!”

She made a success of her business, and takes pride in the fact that 90 per cent of her product is made in Australia, and designed with the Australian woman in mind. “We pay Australian wages and keep Australians employed.”

Sketa creates an amazing range of leisurewear, mother-ofthe-bride fashion and workwear. “I like to describe the Sketa style as design for an attitude, not a fashion. If someone has the right attitude, what does it matter if they’re 25 or 90? My daughter-in-law, who’s 40 and a really fashionconscious person, wears many Sketa garments. Good fashion

…at the tender age of 19, she scooped a bevy of awards including the Supreme Award, the Export Award and the Designers’ Award

'

is timeless, and I think it’s important to wear what you feel comfortable in, and what makes you feel great. Confidence is style.”

Adele travels overseas twice a year to research current fashions and source fabrics. She recently sourced a gorgeous range of fabrics from Europe and Japan for her Australian collection. She always has an Italian fashion magazine, Collezioni, at hand, “to see what’s going on, and adapt things to an Australian climate.”

So what has been her secret for success? “To survive in the fashion industry in Australia, I think you need to have a background in pattern-making, and a love of fashion. As Sketa’s sole designer, I discuss everything with my assistant Kim, who has worked with me for over 25 years. I think I have a knack for re-interpreting fashion and adapting it to the Australian woman. After 50 years in the industry, I find that if both Kim and I like a design, we know we’re on a winner.”

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building stronger communities

Community bank … community benefits When you choose to be a customer at your local Community Bank® Branch your decision benefits you and your community.

That’s because with every saving or investment account, every home or personal loan and every product and service we offer, money goes back into our community.

It means you benefit from competitive products and great service and feel satisfied knowing your banking is making a difference.

The unique thing about your Community Bank® branch is it’s not just a business in a community; it is owned by the community.

Shares in this local company are owned by local people and their support has allowed us to set up branches in San Remo (2003), Cowes (2009) and Grantville (2010).

Already we’ve contributed more than $1.5 million to the local community through sponsorships, grants and dividends.

The more people choose to bank with us, the more we can contribute.

It’s simple 1. You choose to bank with your locally-owned Community Bank® branch.

2. You select from a competitive range of banking products.

3. The local community shares in the income generated by your banking.

The more you bank with us, the more the community benefits.

$824,000

in sponsorships

$411,000

in community grants

$265,000 in dividends

4. The community chooses which local projects receive financial support.

Community Promise Our Bank believes successful customers and successful communities create a successful bank – in that order.

First and foremost, we’re a good bank. But it’s the way we help communities to prosper that makes us unique.

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Your Community Bank® has provided

“We return approximately 80% of our profit to the local community in the form of sponsorships and grants.”

Two recent grants from local Community Bank® branches have focused on very different aspects. of good health.

Promoting health San Remo & District Community Bank® Branch was proud to support a unique health promotion by Bass Coast Health, which used theatre to draw attention to the issue of men’s mental health.

Performed by a cast of talented local thespians, the play “Out of the Blue” was inspired by a similar production in NSW and adapted to reflect the local Gippsland experience.

An $11,000 grant from the Community Bank® branch to Bass Coast Health helped fund this innovative production.

The play’s first performance coincided with Mental Health Week and served to highlight the growing incident of men’s depression and suicide, as well as promoting the services available to men dealing with the pressure of depression.

Photo: South Gippsland Sentinel Times

The link between physical health and mental well-being is clearly established and local sporting clubs play a vital role in the health of any local community.

Cowes Community Bank® Branch took an active approach to promoting good health by committing $60,000 to the Phillip Island Football/Netball Club to help construct new change rooms.

When the Victorian Government agreed to put in $100,000, the club rallied and raised the remaining funds, so the project could go ahead.

The finished changed rooms, which will provide space for football, netball and visiting teams, are expected to cost approximately $280,000.

Upgraded facilities are just one way to help local sports clubs continue to attract members and promote healthy living in the community.

We offer a diverse range of products and services that can satisfy all our customers banking needs:

Make a dfference to your

• Everyday Banking Accounts • Home Loans • Personal Loans

own banking and your

• Credit Cards • Term Deposits • Insurance

Cowes Community Bank Branch Shop 1, 209-213 Settlement Road, Cowes Phone 5952 3383

• Business Banking • Superannuation • Financial Planning Grantville & District Community Bank Branch Shop 4, 1503 Bass Highway, Grantville Phone 5678 8773

community. Drop into your nearest branch today.

San Remo & District Community Bank Branch 103a Marine Parade, San Remo Phone 5678 5833

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Inside view On any given day, Fiona Routledge, sales and property manager at Mountain View Retirement Village in Leongatha, can find herself ordering blinds, meeting with construction teams, designing flyers, coordinating window-cleaning or presenting workshops. She says her role is challenging, exciting and never predictable.

My first day at work began unconventionally with a breakfast team-meeting at The Rusty Windmill café. Over coffee and scrambled eggs, the various aspects of my new role unfolded.

The village operates on two levels, as a residential over-55s community as well as a development project, with new villas being built and released for sale.

That first week was a blur, with new names, faces and technology in a totally new environment. At an introductory morning tea, I babbled like a competitor in a beauty pageant, explaining my interests and hobbies. Thankfully, Rosa, our administrative and sales support person, made my induction much easier. Her good nature is equalled only by her sense of humour and ability to remain calm when all around is chaos.

She fixes residents’ computer issues, fills out their paperwork for DVA, shares a never-ending supply of Pringles and makes endless cappuccinos for residents and visitors alike.

Each day is completely unique as I’m dealing with our residents and with people looking at becoming part of the Mountain View community, and every person has their own experiences, considerations and requirements. People often surprise me with the extent of their research when they’re considering retirement options. People want to be financially comfortable and having a secure environment is also very

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important. Being able to leave your villa to go on holiday, knowing someone else is maintaining your home, is a big plus. Low-maintenance, single-level living and emergency on-call services really offer peace of mind. And amenities like the bowling green, heated indoor pool, stylish residents’ lounge and on-site caravan/boat storage all help, of course!

A recent hospital upgrade, our proximity to Melbourne, great public transport, stunning natural beauty and clean coastal and mountain air are some of the other bonuses of South Gippsland life.

One of the important conversations we have with future residents is about succession planning, which is about care and trust in others. It’s not a conversation that I experienced with my own parents: my father’s approach to life remained less than sensible to the end. His succession planning was based entirely on what would happen if Mum ever left him alone, and seemed to focus on having their remaining cat put down! Mum’s approach to life remains pragmatic to this day.

We buried my father three days after Christmas in 2006. Three months later, aged 72, Mum had joined a trivia club, bought herself a Labrador and taken up carriage-driving.

My partner constantly asks me how a retirement village can keep me quite so busy! In terms of job satisfaction, it rates extremely highly. I wanted a role that contained an altruistic aspect, and this one certainly has that. I still haven’t managed to persuade my mum to move into the village. She says that she couldn’t stand me bossing her around all day long. She might want to change her mind quickly, though, because more than half the village has already sold.

DON’T DELAY VILLAS SELLING FAST. OVER HALF ALREADY SOLD!

LIVING CHOICES WORKSHOP at Mountain View Leongatha Only a limited number of villas remain for sale at Mountain View Leongatha. Visit us for an insight into our beautiful South Gippsland community and what we have to offer.

Embracing life to the full is all about making the right decisions at the right time. We invite you to attend a lunch and informal seminar on choices, options and financial considerations to assist you in lifestyle and retirement options.

DECEMBER

Thursday 11th

2015 DATES JANUARY FEBRUARY

Thursday 22nd Wednesday 11th

From 11am to 3pm at Mountain View Leongatha, 1 Dale Drive, Leongatha 3953 To RSVP for catering purposes please call Fiona or Rosa to secure your place on 1300 306 255 or email admin@mountainviewleongatha.com.au

Visit www.mountainviewleongatha.com.au for more details, or call 1300 306 255 to arrange a tour or to request a free information pack.

Phone: 1300 306 255 1 Dale Drive, Leongatha, VIC 3953 coast 97

• • • • • • • • •

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week Safe and secure Private ladies only area Group Fitness Personalised individual programs LCD TV on fat burning equipment Large free weight area State of the art toning equipment Friendly staff to help you achieve your goals and motivate

Sign up online at: www.voyagefitness.com.au Claim your membership during STAFFED HOURS: Mon-Thu: 6am – 9pm Fri: 6am – 8pm Sat: 8am – 12pm

WONTHAGGI

Shed 2, 120 McKenzie St

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LEONGATHA 51 McCartin St

summer

where to eat guide

Summer…there’s no better time to explore all the great places to meet and eat across our coast.

Taste of Summer is your guide to our best cafés, bars and restaurants, complete with preview listings and expanded reviews.

We visit Connell’s Bakery and sample some good, old-fashioned country pies and slices (see our café review on page 113). With its commitment to fresh, quality local produce, it’s not hard to see why this friendly, relaxed café is so popular.

We also preview the fabulous new summer menu at Silverwater Resort’s Watermark Restaurant.

The Latin-inspired menu focuses heavily on fresh local produce and seafood with innovative reinterpretations of classic dishes (page 104).

It’s an exciting development for anyone looking for a coastal fine-dining experience.

Bon appétit!

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Eatery + Fudge + Micro coffee roastery

now selling ice creams

7am – 4pm, 6 days (closed Wednesday) breakfast + lunch + coffee + sweets + ice cream 4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo 0407 717 588 email: hello@beand.com.au http://beand.com.au

Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria offers inside, al fresco and garden area dining. You can find antipasto plates, and beer and wine on tap in addition to our woodfire oven pizzas. Our food menu is designed to be take away or dine in.

The Deli is stocked with homemade fare such as pasta and sauce, biscuits, fresh bread and an ever expanding gluten free range. Find a bit of info about South Gippsland in the information area while you stop in for a bite!

Three Function areas both private and public available.

03 5664 7397

93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan (Sth Gipps Hwy) rhia@trullipizzeria.com.au Hours: Wed-Fri: 4-late | Sat-Sun: 12-late (Closed Mon & Tues) www.trullipizzeria.com.au

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where

to

eat

guide

summer

where to eat guide

Asian Kitchen

BEANd

Asian Kitchen welcomes you 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11am to enjoy a range of fresh Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Chinese dishes in a modern, relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for groups and families.

Fully licensed with a wide variety of Asian beers, spirits and a comprehensive wine list.

Enjoy Phillip Island’s ONLY all-you-can-eat Yum Cha service, every Sunday from 11am-3pm! www.asiankitchenpi.com

If coffee is your passion, here’s where to get your caffeine fix. Coffee is fresh-roasted daily, including BEANd’s signature blend. The all-day breakfast menu includes My Benny (salmon, bacon or ham Benedict) and Avo Avo – an avocado breakfast supreme. A great selection of homemade nougat, jams and chutneys is also on sale. Open every day except Wednesday from 7am-4pm. http://Beand.com.au or facebook.com/beandcoffee

49-53 Thompson Ave, Cowes Call 5952 6560

4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 0407 717 588

Mention “Coast Magazine” when booking to enjoy a glass of AK red or white wine on us!* *Not available in conjunction with other offers ($12 Thursday, etc)

Captain’s Louge – Inverloch Esplanade Hotel 1 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Call 5674 1432

The menu at this stylish, sophisticated restaurant features a fabulous selection of seafood, prime Gippsland beef and tantalising sweet treats. There’s a family bistro, kids’ menu and alfresco dining 7 days a week. The 3-Course Thursday (for only $35!) is the best value meal around, so book to avoid disappointment. www.invyespy.com.au

Churchill Island Café

Connell’s Bakery

Set in the stunning environment of Churchill Island and surrounded by wildlife and farm animals, this charming café offers lovingly-prepared food, with a focus on local produce. Enjoy a coffee and cake on the balcony overlooking Westernport, or relax on a Saturday afternoon over tapas, pizza and live music. Open 7 days from 9am-4.30pm.

Delicious fresh bread, trays of glistening slices and cakes, good coffee and friendly service are the Connell’s trademarks. You can start the day with their Big Breakfast Pie, or something sweeter. For lunch, there’s a great selection of fabulous pies, including the award-winning Beef and Mushroom, and platters of salad. Truly scrumptious.

246 Samuel Ames Dr, Churchill Island Call 5956 7834

1050. 33-35 Murray St, Wonthaggi Call 5672 1050 Bass Service Centre 5678 2133

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summer

where to eat guide

Fish Creek General Store

Harry’s on the Esplanade

Your one-stop shop in Fish Creek, the general store has an enticing range of gourmet and local produce guaranteed to tempt any foodie. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or the ingredients for a special dinner – or even the local paper – you’re sure to find what you need.

It’s worth a visit for the view alone, but Harry’s seafood and local produce are also top-notch. European-inspired dining using local, natural and authentic produce.

Seafood fresh off the boat and Island-grazed beef and lamb are house specialities. A gorgeous selection of bread, cakes and ice-cream are all whipped up at the in-house Patisserie. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, plus breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. www.harrysrestaurant.com.au

25 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Call 5683 2226

17 The Esplanade, Cowes Call 5952 6226

Kernot Food & Wine Store

Kilcunda General Store

La Provincia

You’ll get a warm country welcome at this beautiful heritage store. Mouthwatering woodfired pizza, home-made pies and local produce are the highlights of the menu, and there’s also a great local wine-list. The store regularly serves up a great selection of live music. Open Thu – Sun 9am-8pm. Friday dinner till late.

This quirky, friendly café is a local haunt and firm favourite for many visitors. Renowned for beautiful breakfasts and fabulous cakes, ingredients are fresh and locally-sourced where possible. As well as great food and coffee, there’s a gift shop packed with sustainable, locally-produced items, and you can pick up a jar of the store’s own range of jams, chutney and mayo. Open 7 days from 7am.

A gorgeous café and wine bar just off the Bass Highway, La Provincia is well worth the detour. As well as serving up a beautiful array of home-style Italian cuisine, La Provincia is a deli, fruit, vegetable and wine shop offering many products grown or made on-site. Perfect for every occasion from hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches – or just a glass of wine with cheese.

1075 Loch-Kernot Rd, Kernot Call 5678 8555

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3535 Bass Hwy, Kilcunda Call 5678 7390

105 Corinella Rd, Corinella Call 5678 0382

Youki’s www.youkis.com.au

Authentic Japanese food with friendly service!

Open Tuesday-Saturday. Closed Sunday & Monday. Open 7 days over summer holiday Take away dinner is available Phone orders: 5952 3339/5:30pm–9pm.

Fresh sushi for lunch time from our sushi shops!

Cowes / 69 Chapel Street, 5952 6444 Open 7 days Wonthaggi / 46 McBride Ave 5673 4070 Sunday closed Leongatha / 38 Bair Street, 5662 0656 Sunday & Monday closed

a cafe with european influence

Vaughan’s Cafe Deli

Open 6 days - 8am-4pm (extended trading hours over summer and evenings) 10 A’Beckett Street, Inverloch 03 5674 6877 www.facebook.com/VaughansCafeDeli

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The Latin-inspired menu focuses heavily on fresh local produce and innovative reinterpretations of classic dishes.

dine dine out

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

coast 104

e

dine

out

WAtermArk benchmark on

fine dining

There’s a food revolution happening in the hills outside San Remo.

Watermark Restaurant at Silverwater Resort is aiming to change the way we think and feel about dining out.

We arrive on a brilliantly sunny day, and it’s hard to think of a more gorgeous place to spend an afternoon. The vista that takes in the sparkling blue waters of Westernport and sweeps across Phillip Island is reason enough to visit. Fortunately for us, we’re also here to sample Watermark’s brand-new summer menu. There’s a new team in the kitchen led by Executive Chef Dan Childs and Sous Chef Augustin Ortega, and the Latininspired menu focuses heavily on fresh local produce and innovative reinterpretations of classic dishes.

Our first choice is the Cebiche Clasico, a recipe that hails from Peru. Fresh kingfish is marinated in tiger milk - a citrus-based marinade of lime juice, fish stock, rocoto chilli and Spanish onion – and garnished with fried salt-bush leaves (locally foraged). The fish is brilliantly tender and the marinade is a superb mix of flavours. I especially like the chilli – it has a short heat explosion in your mouth but doesn’t over-stay its welcome.

Next up is grilled octopus served on a bed of quinoa salad with congo potatoes and pickled vegetables – but the presentation is so stunning it almost seems wrong to eat it.

Bright-blue potatoes, pink and purple pickles, and dollops of olive purée surround the delicious grilled octopus. It’s a riot of colour that tastes as good as it looks. The pickled onion is exquisite, while the soft creamy texture of the purplish congo potatoes soaks up the surrounding flavours.

Rounding out our seafood experience is the Cured Confit Salmon. As beautiful as our first two dishes were, this is my firm favourite. The moist and tender salmon (cooked for ten minutes at 42 degrees in a sealed bag) is served with a chilli mayonnaise and garnished with pumpkin skin, thinly-sliced raw cauliflower and picked beetroots. The mayonnaise is a creamy chilli delight, while the dehydrated pumpkin skin provides a crisp flavour-burst and the pickled beetroot is a taste sensation. The presentation of this dish is another culinary artwork, proving that a good food experience is as much about what we see as what we taste.

For our main meal, we take the chef’s recommendation to try A La Brasa Chicken. Marinated in panca chilli (from Peru), the free-range chicken is slow-cooked on a rotisserie, then pan-fried and served on a bed of dehydrated chicken-skin and salt. The strength of this dish is its simplicity. The chicken was tender and delicious with just a hint of chilli, while the chicken-skin bed was tangy, salty, sweet and crisp. I can see this becoming a menu favourite and signature dish for Watermark.

I wasn’t sure we could find room for dessert after that feast, but fortunately we were persuaded to try the lemon meringue pie. Like many dishes on this menu, it might be a traditional favourite, but there’s nothing old-fashioned about it! When it arrives, I’m reminded of the Sydney Opera House. The >

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dine

out

deconstructed pie features dollops of tangy lemon topped with soft meringue, separated by thin wedges of crisp chewy meringue and served with coconut icecream and chocolate dirt (dark chocolate, coconut, sugar and flour). It’s irresistible.

The soft meringue beautifully tempers the sharp tang of the lemon filling, the chocolate dirt is rich but not too sweet, and the coconut icecream provides a fresh light accompaniment.

Watermark’s chefs Dan and Augustin are not just introducing a new menu: they’re building a philosophy for the restaurant.

The pair worked together in Perth, and when Dan took on the role of Executive Chef, he asked Augustin to join him. They share a passion for food, a desire to explore and experiment with flavours, and a love of the Victorian coastline. “We want the menu to tell a story about the local area,” explains Dan. “There is amazing produce around here and we want to focus on local, seasonal and even native ingredients. We’re excited about using produce that no one else does.” Being environmentally sustainable is a prime aim and they are

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already expanding the onsite herb garden and exploring local foraging ideas so they can offer a quality seasonal menu complemented by a revolving array of specials.

With an eye to presentation (the dishes look amazing served on granite slabs) and an innovative approach to flavours, ingredients and techniques, Dan and Augustin are creating a revolution in the kitchen. The focus for the summer menu (launching on 9th December) is fresh and raw ingredients, with plenty of vegetarian options. It’s definitely raising the bar on local fine dining. Exceptional food served in such a stunning locale is an absolute winner, and you don’t have to be a guest at the resort to enjoy it.

Watermark is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bookings recommended 5671 9393. There will also be live music on Saturdays throughout January (see www.silverwaterresort.com.au for details).

4 1/2 Star Apartment Accommodation Stunning views across the Bay Watermark Restaurant, Cafe and Bar - All Visitors Welcome ●

●

AAA Rated 4 1/2 Star Resort Style Accommodation TOUR

ISM

Stunning views across the Bay

State Awards for excellence

AC

MM

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Watermark Restaurant, Cafe and Bar - All Visitors Welcome

WINNER 2014 I

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●

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ATI

I ON AUSTRALIA (V

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OR

Functions, Weddings, Conferences

17 Potters Hill Road, San Remo VIC 3925 www.silverwaterresort.com.au Enquiries: 17 info@silverwaterresort.com.au I 03 VIC 5671 9300 Potters Hill Road, San Remo 3925 I Call today: 1800 033 403

Enquiries & Reservations: sales@silverwaterresort.com.au

I

www.silverwaterresort.com.au

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Manna Gum @ Broadbeach 5 Lindsey Cl, Inverloch Call 5674 1199

Superb Asian-fusion restaurant specialising in slow-cooked curries and contemporary Australian fare. Set in the beautiful grounds at Broadbeach, you can dine inside or under the stars on the balcony. Come for lunch or dinner, enjoy a cocktail or a glass from the extensive range of Australian wines. Open Wed – Sun 11am–11pm.

McClelland Gallery Café 390 McClelland Rd, Langwarrin Call 9789 1671 ext 110

Overlooking a beautiful lake and spectacular sculptures, this is a relaxed and inspiring location. Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea with a seasonal menu ranging from delicious cheese platters and soups to gourmet sandwiches and the classic Fish of the Day. You can enjoy a delicious assortment of cakes with tea or coffee.

Open Tue-Sun from 10am–4.30pm. www.mcclellandgallery.com.au

Slow-cooked Asian curries, Contemporary Australian fare, Indoor & alfresco dining, Coffee & cake all day.

Weddings & Functions, Fully licensed.

Available for private & corporate functions.

For enquiries & reservations call: 5674 1199 5 Lindsey Close, Inverloch www.manna-gum.com.au

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Numbers Restaurant Café & Bar, Ramada Resort 2128 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes Call 5952 8000.

Set amid acres of native bushland, Numbers is a perfect place for a relaxed, family-friendly meal. This stylish restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, or you can simply come for a drink at the bar and enjoy a selection from their extensive wine list. The Woodfired Pizzeria is extremely popular and the regular restaurant menu offers plenty of choices for discerning diners, including vegetarian and seafood options. www.ramadaphillipisland.com.au/dining

where

Nui Dat Cafe – Vietnam Veterans Museum 25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven Call 5956 6400

Nui Dat Cafe is a place to relax, chat and reflect while enjoying amazing food and coffee. Daily lunch specials, Devonshire teas, homemade muffins and slices as well as the best gooey fudge brownies on the Island.

Newly revamped, it’s a popular coffee stop for locals and visitors alike. Open Wed - Sun 10am-3.30pm.

Old Dalyston Deli

to

eat

guide

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory Café

74 Glen Forbes Rd, Dalyston Call 5678 7377 Relax and unwind in the grounds of a restored100-year-old church. The legendary pizzas can be enjoyed inside or out on the lawn with a glass of wine or beer, and are also available to take away. Test your mettle with the Hot Hot Hot (made with local chilli and chorizo) or one of the mouthwatering gourmet options (smoked salmon, anyone?). Open Sundays from 9am. www.olddalystondeli.com

930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Call 5956 6600

This bright and airy café opens out onto an expansive deck and not surprisingly offers a great range of chocolate treats. Drawing on owner Panny’s Indian/Malaysian heritage, the café also serves a variety of superb curries, and the satay wraps are legendary. Fully licensed, with an impressive range of local and Australian wines. Open 7 days from 10am. www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au

• 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 Holidays & Weekends

Ph. 5956 7834

www.churchillislandcafe.com.au coast 109

summer

where to eat guide

Porter Republic

State Coal Mine Café

Kid-friendly, great coffee – no wonder this place is hugely popular with families.

But there’s more. The menu ranges from Mex-inspired tacos to pork sliders, burgers, corn cakes and curry. There’s plenty of sweet treats to tempt you, too. Head down on Friday or Saturday night (6pm till late) if you feel like tapas, cold drinks and live music.

Open 7 days from 6.30am. www.porterrepublic.com.au

Exploring coal-mines is hungry work, so grab some light refreshments from the café (located in the Visitor Information Centre).

Delicious Devonshire tea, soups, salads and light meals such as lasagna are all on the menu, as well as a variety of cakes and desserts. www.statecoalmine.com.au

117 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 56785524

aptain’s ounge • A sophisticated and beautiful restaurant, Level 1 at the Espy.

• Open Thursday Friday and Saturday nights.

• 3 Course Thursdays (every Thursday night) 3 delicious courses for only $35.

• See our function co-ordinator to organise your special event: Weddings, Engagements, Birthdays, Graduation Dinners, Conferences.

• Family bistro open 7 days, Alfresco dining.

• Seniors Meals, Daily Chefs Specials.

• Fantastic Sports Bar and Entertainment venue: Fox Sports/ TAB Racing/ Music.

• Thirsty Camel Bottle shop and Drive Through.

• The G Room” now available for small private groups, dinner meetings and quieter dining.

1 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Vic 3996 03 5674 1432 www.invyespy.com.au coast 110

Garden St, Wonthaggi Call 5672 3053

where

Terminus - Flinders Hotel Cnr Cook & Woods St, Flinders Call 5989 0201

Terminus, at the Flinders Hotel, provides a magnificent coastal experience. Awarded a Chef’s Hat by the Age Good Food Guide, the cuisine is a unique blend of modern French with a North African influence, created by Executive Chef Pierre Khodja. Choose to sit indoors in this sophisticated and stylish restaurant, or enjoy the terrace on a balmy summer evening. www.flindershotel.com.au

to

eat

guide

The Fat Seagull Restaurant Bar Takeaway

The Chutney Bar 16A William St, Inverloch Call 5674 6999

This great little Indian restaurant has a curry to suit every taste, a fine selection of tandoori breads – and its Butter Chicken is justifiably famous! There’s also a fabulous selection of vegetarian meals. Eat in or take away. It’s a good idea to book, as the small room fills quickly.

10 Thompson Ave, Cowes Call 5952 3106

This popular local restaurant offers a broad à la carte menu featuring some 56+ pizza, pasta, steak, seafood and oriental dishes.

Two fully licensed bars showcase a variety of Australian and imported beers, wines and quirky cocktails. The private Bayview Room accommodates private groups of up to 70 with fantastic views over Westernport Bay. Dine-in or take-away. www.thefatseagull.com.au Mention “Coast Magazine” when booking to enjoy a 10% discount on all dine-in orders over $50!* *Not available in conjunction with other offers ($12 Tuesday, etc)

A Premium Culinary, Accommodation & Conference Destination The Deck Bar & Bistro, Terminus Restaurant Peninsula events space & Quarters accommodation

The Age Good Food Guide, Chef Hat Award 2013, 2014 & 2015 Winner of Best Hotel Chef, HM Awards 2014 4 star Certificate of Excellence Terminus Restaurant, Trip Advisor 2014

Flinders Hotel Cnr. Cook & Wood St Flinders VIC 3929 PHONE 03 5989 0201 EMAIL info@flindershotel.com.au flindershotel.com.au

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summer

where to eat guide

The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant

Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria 93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan Call 5664 7397

11 Beach Rd, Rhyll Call 5956 9520

Relaxed and stylish, overlooking the waterfront at Rhyll, this is the perfect place for a beautiful meal, a coffee catch-up, or to meet for a drink. Lunch and dinner menus feature great seafood options and cater for gluten-free and vegetarians. Fully licensed. www.theforeshore.com.au

Delicious woodfired pizzas are the speciality of the house, but don’t miss the antipasto plates or amazing deli range (including handmade sauces and pasta).

Hosts Francesco and Rhia give everyone a big family welcome and their food will transport you to the Italian countryside.

Dine inside, al fresco or in the garden.

Open Wed – Fri from 4pm, weekends from 12pm. www.trullipizzeria.com.au

Hotel Motel

Hotel Motel

Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner Motel Style Accommodation TAB • ATM • Free WiFi • Beer Garden Kids Play Room • Ample Boat & Trailer Parking

21-23 Main St, Welshpool VIC (03) 5688 1209 E: welshpoolhotelmotel@gmail.com W: welshpoolhotelmotel.com.au www.welshpoolhotelmotel.com.au coast 112

cafe

cafe review

For a great-value, good-quality lunch, coffee or snack, Connell’s Bakery is an obvious choice.

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

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cafe

review

Old-fashioned

goodness

Anyone old enough to remember an old-fashioned country café will feel a wave of nostalgia when they walk into Connell’s Bakery in Wonthaggi. Aside from the delicious smell of fresh-baked bread and the trays of glistening slices and cakes on display, the place radiates a warm, unpretentious, down-to-earth welcome that’s as tempting as any of those scrumptious treats.

This family business has been flourishing in Gippsland for over 20 years, but the last five years has seen some major expansion. Its Murray Street café has grown from a modest four tables to seating for 100 people. What hasn’t changed is the wholesome food and the friendly staff. Dee and Brad Connell’s philosophy is simple: “We supply good quality, reasonably priced food for everybody,” explains Dee. “We cater to a pretty broad range – families, older people, tradies. Ours is the kind of food you can eat every day, and it’s affordable.”

Affordable and award-winning. At Dee’s recommendation, we start off our lunch with the Beef and Mushroom Pie. Quite simply – it’s superb. Packed with mushrooms and shredded local Angus beef in a crispy pie crust, it picked up a silver medal at the 2014 Great Aussie Pie Competition. The first-time entrants also scored silver for their Plain Pie and bronze for their Big Breakfast Pie. The medal winners are just some of the highlights on an impressive pie menu. Whether you prefer your pies traditional and hearty or with a touch of gourmet, you can’t go past Connell’s…and make sure you also check out their quiches, pasties, spinach rolls and sausage rolls.

Less traditional bakery fare is Connell’s selection of salads, which Dee tells me is a real hit with customers. “There are six main salads that sell really well,” smiles Dee. “I like to mix them up a bit, but our customers have their favourites and so we keep them on the menu.” We sample a platter that includes some of these favourites, such as Roast Potato Salad, Roast Vegetable Salad, and Penne with Pesto, but we are too late for the popular Caesar salad, which has already sold out. The Roast Potato salad includes bacon, red onion and spinach and, in a departure from the usual creamy dressing, is served with a light dressing of lemon juice, olive oil and seeded mustard.

The Roast Vegetable salad is a mouth-watering blend of pumpkin, sundried tomatoes, capsicum, walnuts, feta, red onion and baby spinach, topped with a balsamic dressing.

The Penne with Pesto is full of flavour and includes feta and sundried tomatoes. I’m beginning to understand why the regulars are so protective of their salad selection.

To finish off, we bravely decide to explore the cake and slice selection in search of a treat to accompany our coffee. The Connell’s commitment to quality and fantastic customer service continues at the espresso machine. “We do have a special way of preparing our coffee, but our main focus is to make your coffee the way you want it,” smiles Dee. “It’s about personal taste, so if you want it cooler, for example, we can do that. We also offer quarter-strength coffees and we do sell a lot of these.” That’s great news for me – a renowned coffee wimp – so a quarter-strength latte is the perfect choice to complement my dessert selection. My trusty lunch partner opts for a double espresso to propel her through the rest of a busy day.

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With eyes way bigger than our stomachs, it’s hard to make a selection from the array of cakes and slices, but we finally decide on Lemon Curd Cheesecake and New York Vanilla Slice. The cheesecake base is crisp and light, and the tangy lemon topping is a great contrast to the smooth, creamy cheese filling.

Next up is the New York Vanilla Slice. With layers of filo pastry, fresh cream and custard, all blanketed in chocolate, it’s just glorious. There really is no way to eat this delectable slab politely. My advice: just dig in and enjoy!

For a great-value, good-quality lunch, coffee or snack, Connell’s is an obvious choice. And you can pick up some fresh-baked bread or rolls while you’re there.

…we start off our lunch with the Beef and Mushroom Pie. Quite simply – it’s superb.

Connell’s also has an outlet at the Bass service station.

While this agency stocks a limited Connell’s range, you can pick up fresh bread and a coffee, pie or sweet treat for the journey. The outlet is already attracting loyal customers. A driver for a big transport company recently commented on Facebook that the Connell’s vanilla slice was the best ever, and added “and we’ve travelled everywhere”. Recommendations don’t come any better than that!

BASS: Located inside the service centre 03 5678 2133 Mon to Fri: 7am-4pm Sat & Sun: 8am-4pm WONTHAGGI: 33-35 Murray Street 03 5672 1050 Mon to Fri: 6am-5pm Sat: 6am-1.30pm

ALTY CARD

CUSTOMER LOY

Join our loyalty program and take advantage of some great rewards at either of our stores: Connells Bakery is a family run and owned business. Our store in Wonthaggi was opened in 1993 and in December 2013 we opened our second store in Bass looking to provide a fresh food option for the locals as well as the travellers on the highway passing through.

We bake all our breads, pies and cakes in our Wonthaggi Bakery and deliver each day to Bass.

It is our aim to provide good quality fresh food at reasonable prices and hope that you will come visit either of our stores to see for yourself.

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Vaughan’s Café Deli

Shop H,10 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Call 5674 6877 A great place to enjoy a unique blend of coffee, grab a bite to eat or stock up on gourmet treats. Vaughan’s stocks a terrific range of local and imported products, including gourmet cheeses and sausages, dips, and a range of gluten-free options.

Big on breakfasts, including fresh juices and homemade cakes, functions and catering.

Open 6 days 8am–4pm and Friday & Saturday evenings. www.facebook.com/VaughansCafeDeli

Fish Creek General Store groceries newsagent gourmet produce local produce coast 116

Watermark @ Silverwater Resort 17 Potters Hill Rd, San Remo Call 5671 9300

With an eye for presentation and an innovative approach to flavours, ingredients and techniques, Watermark sets the bar on local fine dining. The Latin-inspired menu focuses heavily on fresh local produce and innovative reinterpretations of classic dishes and their seafood is a standout. Exceptional food served in such a stunning locale is an absolute winner and you don’t have to be a resort guest to enjoy it. www.silverwaterresort.com.au

Welshpool Hotel 21-23 Main St, Welshpool Call 5688 1209

Brilliant bistro dining with plenty of country hospitality. With a menu that includes fresh local fish and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the whole family will be happy. A great wine-list and kids’ play area ensure everyone can relax and enjoy a great meal. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. www.welshpoolhotelmotel.com.au

25 Falls Rd Fish Creek 03 5683 2226

where

to

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guide

Westernport Hotel

Woolamai Pizza

Youki’s

Overlooking the San Remo jetty, The Westernport Bistro offers stunning views, a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service and delicious and creative summer dishes.

From sumptuous steaks to exquisite salads, inspired classics to imaginative specials, The Westernport Bistro really has something for everyone. Delve into The Westernport experience this summer. Book Now! www.thewesternport.com.au

A great selection of gourmet and traditional pizzas is what keeps people coming back to this busy little pizza place at Cape Woolamai. Fresh toppings and great flavour combinations including Vegetarian Pumpkin Pesto, Greek Lamb and the seafood Zappa Special are hallmarks.

This licensed tapas bar offers authentic Japanese home-cooking and friendly service. There’s an extensive menu with plenty of vegetarian options and a great sushi and sashimi selection. Choose from the extensive bar list – and check out the sake taster offer. Takeaway also available.

Sushi Shops located in Cowes, Wonthaggi and Leongatha. Open for dinner Tue – Sat. www.youkis.com.au

161 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 5678 5205

1/2 Vista Pl, Cape Woolamai Call 5956 7000

97 Church St (cnr of Douglas Rd), Cowes Call 5952 3339

Also on sale: Fresh fruit and vegetables Local and imported delicacies KGS mayonnaise, hummus, chutney and jams Gorgeous home and giftware items

Kilcunda General Store Mon- Sat: 7am-5pm Sun: 7am-4pm 3535 Bass Highway, Kilcunda Ph: 5678 7390 coast 117

Slow cooked summer specials Local fresh produce with seafood straight from the boat, Island grazed beef and lamb and in-house bakery.

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

Ph (03) 5952 6226

www.harrysrestaurant.com.au

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

105 Corinella Road Corinella Phone: 03 5678 0382

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

Open seven days tapas fri & sat night Available for functions

coffee by day... tapas by night 117 Marine Parade, San Remo P. (03) 5678 5524 E. hi@porterrepublic.com.au W. porterrepublic.com.au coast 119

Body & Beauty Tea & Coffee

Groceries Organic

Wine

Health

Sports Nutrition

Vitamins

Home Brewing

Fruit & Vegies Health Food Shop - Natural & Organic Health Products

Old Dalyston Church & Deli Fully licensed café/restaurant • Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and takeaway pizza in January • Alfresco dining • Garden Bar • Twilight market Tuesday Dec 30th 3 - 9 74 Glen Forbes Rd Dalyston (Between Kilcunda & Wonthaggi. Turn between pub and general store) • Ring or check the website for opening hours •

Phone 5678 7377 www.olddalystondeli.com coast 120

admin@olddalystondeli.com

Locally owned ĂĄ Locally grown

Ahern’s personal connection with local producers means you get the freshest, best selection of Gippsland fruit, vegetables and dairy.

Fresh. Local. Quality.

Wholesale suppliers throughout South Gippsland

Phone. 5682 2095 29 Toora Road, Foster

contact@aherns.com.au

Follow us on and Facebook

www.aherns.com.au coast 121

seagrove taking flight One of the most commented on aspects of Phillip Island’s Seagrove residential estate is the number and diversity of native birds. This rich birdlife is even more remarkable given Seagrove’s location, just 800m from the busy main street of Cowes.

In 2002, before construction of Seagrove began, biologists conducted a survey of the existing birdlife. Twenty-nine different native species were identified, an unusually high number.

The challenge for Seagrove’s locally-based developer was how to preserve this level of biodiversity while at the same time creating an attractive new coastal community for hundreds of residents.

It was clear that Seagrove couldn’t be a “business as usual” residential development. Innovative approaches and highquality design would be critical. If the developer got it wrong, Seagrove’s bird life would be at risk.

One of the first things constructed was Seagrove’s 23 million litre Seaberry Creek wetland. The first of its kind on Phillip Island, the wetland was designed using computer software developed by Monash University to naturally clean stormwater before it enters Western Port. Containing some 19,000 wetland plants, the wetland would also bring Seagrove’s residents closer to nature with extensive walking paths, over 130 metres of boardwalks, a bridge and architectdesigned picnic shelter.

High-conservation significance eucalypt woodland was protected within a large public reserve – Seagrove Park.

Extensive mulched garden beds were created covering almost 40 per cent of the total park area. These garden beds were planted with indigenous mid- and ground-storey plants to provide shelter and habitat for smaller birds. The garden beds were also intended to define areas around existing large trees, allowing the retention of trees that reached the end of their life-cycle and would otherwise need to be removed due to the risk of falling limbs. Full of hollows, it was hoped these trees would function like avian apartment buildings with each nesting hole and hollow home to one of a diverse range of colourful native birds.

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Seagrove native birdlife species

Extra-wide, landscaped streetscapes were constructed to create green links joining the network of parks together. In total, more than 50,000 indigenous plants and trees were established.

Seagrove’s community was also to play an important role. Extralarge home sites, averaging over 700m2 in area, were created to give residents more space for landscaping. Complimentary twelve-month membership of Urban Landcare for all residents was to encourage bird-friendly gardens.

So how have these efforts paid off in preserving Seagrove’s bird life?

To find out, recent bird observations by Seagrove’s residents were collated and compared with the original 2002 survey.

The results were remarkable.

Fifty-four native species were recorded – a more than 85 per cent increase in bird biodiversity – and at the same time, hundreds of residents are now living closer to nature.

To find out more about Seagrove, visit www.seagrove.com.au

Australasian Grebe Australian Magpie Australian Raven Australian White Ibis Australian Wood Duck Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Black-shouldered Kite Brown Goshawk Brown Thornbill Cape Barren Goose Cattle Egret Chestnut Teal Crimson Rosella Diamond Firetail Dusky Moorhen Eastern Rosella Eastern Spinebill Eastern Yellow Robin Eurasian Coot Flame Robin Galah Grey Butcherbird Grey Currawong Grey Fantail Grey Shrike-thrush Lathams Snipe Laughing Kookaburra Little Pied Cormorant Little Wattlebird Magpie-lark Masked Lapwing Musk Lorikeet Nankeen Night Heron New Holland Honeyeater Pacific Black Duck Purple Swamphen Rainbow Lorikeet Red Wattlebird Red-browed Finch Royal Spoonbill Sacred Kingfisher Silver Gull Silvereye Spotted Pardalote Straw-necked Ibis Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Superb Fairy-wren Swamp Harrier Welcome Swallow White-faced Heron White-plumed Honeyeater Willie Wagtail Yellow-rumped Thornbill Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo

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Live the dream

photographic exhibition Prints on sale at the exhibition or online

Stunning coastal landscapes by Coast Magazine photographer Warren Reed

THE

COFFEE COLLECTIVE

www.coastmagazine.net www.warrenreedphotography.com.au www.facebook.com/coffeecollective

50-52 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi 15 December 2014 – 31 January 2015

MUSIC TO FILL THE DANCE FLOOR!

MORE THAN YOUR TYPICAL ‘WEDDING BAND’

With regular showcase performances and a free demo CD you can see and hear them live before booking them.

Choose between 3 – 14 full time professional musicians who play Top 40, Classic Rock & Funk, 80s, Swing Jazz and more...

Pricing from $1000 - $5000, depending on band size.

Call 0438 301 313 or email info@bakerboysband.com.au for more information

JAZZ | FUNK | BLUES | ROCK | ACOUSTIC coast 124

WWW.BAKERBOYSBAND.COM.AU

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Capturing the Spirit of the Mediterranean… in this Tuscan inspired Masterpiece.

Looking back a decade, I still recall my first meeting at the 12 acre foreshore hamlet hidden behind Red Rocks beach on the north-western corner of Phillip island. I expected our meeting to be like thousands I encountered before; however I couldn’t have been more wrong. The property owners Mike and Alex were not your typical real estate moguls out for a quick buck. These guys had something different, they had a soul-inspired story, a vision that needed to be fulfilled and I was being drawn into their date with destiny.

The pair had travelled extensively…the South of France, Italy and the Greek Islands…they poured out their emotionally charged memories…the timeless landscapes, architecture faded by the relentless sun with the deep blue Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop. They spoke of the laughter -filled evenings melding into early morning entertaining friends, the intense aromas of the herbs, rich colours of bougainvillea and hibiscus which have filled the cottage gardens since time immemorial.

Jamie Pollock 0418 855 511

Jenni Kent 0428 566 643

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Those who have spent time on a small island would appreciate it has an energy that’s hard to put into words. Surrounded by the ocean on every side, it’s purifying, subtle and something you definitely feel. They explained that this secluded island cul-de-sac with pristine water views was to become the canvas for their inspired Mediterranean dream. They rolled out pages, sharing with me the floor plans which had evolved in their minds for over a decade. They told tales of their adventures over the years sourcing and collecting exquisite antiques from around the globe to furnish each room, such as magnificent chandeliers that would flood the space with dignity, light and charm. I had never heard anybody speak with such detail. I remarked “this will take years and a lot of hard work”, Alex replied, “it’s not work, it’s a way of life”.

Alex has a lifetime of experience designing and restoring gardens for some of the wealthiest families in Australia. Most of his inspired landscaping projects throughout his career have not been subjected to the cruel limitations of budgetary restrain. Rather he arrives at each project with a vision for something magnificent and he is rewarded with a blank cheque book. These guys have a vision and nobody’s going to talk it down.

Fast forward a decade…We now invite you to join their Tuscan-inspired dream. Rather than just visualize, I invite you to sample the olive oil from their extensive grove. I invite you to stroll the floor plan which has fulfilled its potential as a grand home. Visit the loggia where their guests are seated for an evening of fine wine, sizzling hot lamb, homemade pizza topped with vegetables and garnished with herbs picked fresh from their garden only hours earlier. As the banquet continues the ultimate backdrop is Mother Nature with her ever changing multi-coloured sunsets. The wildlife emerges from the unspoilt foreshore, wallabies graze, echidnas forage and a family of ducks settle onto the ornamental lake they share with a couple of Cape Baron geese.

As the entertaining winds down, the laughter settles, and the last of the guests depart, uplifted by a night of music and good friends, the silence of the evening air stills itself, the only obstacle to perfect silence, the gentle lapping of the waves on the sandy shores just metres away. With the window shutters open the rhythmic sounds of the ocean tides soothes our friends to sleep.

In the bright light of the morning I stroll the gardens, freshly-ground coffee in hand. Amid the tall pencil pines, the bougainvillea, hibiscus and fresh lavender, a myriad of birdlife drink the sweet nectar from the fragrant blooms and water fountains flow into their ponds. It dawns on me in the seclusion of this haven that I’ve witnessed the manifestation of an inspired vision and am now breathing the sweet aromas of this living masterpiece.

The property : 7 ½ Acres (approx) of landscaped gardens, with water features, hand-crafted dry rock walls, ornamental lake, olive grove, double garage, plus large workshop and potting shed, rain water storage, Bocce court, bell tower, and 200 metres (approx) of untouched foreshore frontage.

The residence: 60 Square (approx) Tuscan-inspired homestead has commanding ocean views spread over two levels. Five accommodating living spaces. Three alfresco zones - two undercover including the loggia. Four bedrooms. Three & half bathrooms. Deluxe kitchen with granite bench tops, premium European appliances. Laundry / drying room. Ducted vacuuming, hydronic heating.

These are just a few of the marvellous features awaiting your inspection.

Inspection: Open house times: 6/12/2014: Twilight 6pm – 7pm 10/1/2015: 12.30pm – 1.30pm 24/1/2015: Twilight 6pm – 7pm 14/2/2015: 12.30pm – 1.30pm Or by private appointment.

Method of Sale: For Sale by Tender.

Tender Closes Thursday, 19th February 2015 at 4pm.

Contact Jenni Kent for tender terms & documentation.

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9 Gordon Street, Cowes

$1,250,000

Silver waterS Bed & Breakfast Here is the perfect opportunity to invest in a magnificent property currently being run as a prestige B & B with over $100,000 p.a income. Silver Waters Bed & Breakfast has won many awards and has been designed for couples only. With the middle level for the owners and the lower and top floors for guest, this three storey layout allows both the owners and guests their privacy.

The house is beautifully built; offering five bedrooms, five bathrooms, office, extensive verandahs, commercial laundry, and double garage with storage area and cellar. The home is double brick and built to last.

The B & B is stylish with three delightfully appointed guest suites. Each has its own spacious lounge with access to the breakfast room, balcony and spas. A perfect tranquil location close to all the delights of Phillip Island ... an easy walk to the beach, restaurants and shops. This property is well priced and offers a rare opportunity for income and lifestyle.

Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

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Fairway Views – Cnr Settlement & Coghlan Rds, Cowes prices start from $469,000 20 Magnificent residences in a small enclave, designed for the ultimate in low maintenance lifestyle. Imagine, as part of this complex, you are offered security, tennis court, swimming pool, BBQ hub with full outdoor kitchen, golf putting green, and only a short walk to the golf club and our magnificent north facing beaches. The owner is currently offering new purchasers a one year membership with Cowes Golf Club plus golf cart!

This is a great investment. Whether you are looking to retire to this Island paradise, looking for a magnificent holiday destination, or just a great place to live, this is a fantastic opportunity.

These homes are realistically priced for this prestige development. This is full ownership and title and could be used as a holiday rental for investors or self-funded superannuation clients.

These are selling fast and are unique properties - you can still buy off the plan and save on stamp duty. The benefits of buying in Fairway Views are enormous.

All homes offer excellent floor plans with 3 to 4 bedrooms. Most have 3 toilets and all have double garages, electric security gates and fully landscaped gardens.

Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

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Lot 43 Pyramid Rock Road, Ventnor

$1,900,000 +

161 ACRES IN ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S BEST TOURIST REGIONS This beautiful property features approximately 161 acres of Phillip Island’s most fertile soils. The land has 100 years of prime livestock grazing history, is fully fenced with easy access and has breathtaking views. Situated near the stunning southern coastline of Phillip Island directly opposite the International Grand Prix race track, this property produces healthy livestock and has the potential for growing crops within its deep red soils. There is the potential for future development (subject to planning approval) as the property is surrounded by small acreage developments along it’s southern and western boundaries. The property would make an ideal land bank. A rare opportunity of open land in an area that is fast developing and the improved freeway access means Melbourne is just ninety minutes away. Close to the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade (international tourist attraction).

Jamie Pollock 0418 855 511

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Lot A Pyramid Rock Road, Ventnor

$1,350,000

AMAZING OCEAN FRONT ACRES Pyramid Rock is an icon on Phillip Island and would have to be the most pristine stretch of coast line in Australia. Situated on the south side of Phillip Island the views are majestic. Seals, whales, dolphins and all sorts of birds and wildlife reside here. People rarely venture into these waters and the area abounds with small coves and private beaches. Could you imagine owning 28 acres that fronts this remarkable part of Phillip Island? If you can, this is the property to realise your dream.

This 28 acre allotment is a blank canvass to inspire you to build your dream home. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

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34 Bingley Crescent, Ventnor

$1,590,000

LIFESTYLE OPPORTUNITY – STUNNING PROPERTY This property encompasses 59 acres (approx) with picturesque vistas of the Mornington Peninsula, Westernport Bay, Nobbies and surrounding rural land.

Features include: cosy brick veneer three bedroom (plus study) home, town water, horse stalls and fenced dressage area, seven small and three large paddocks plus good shedding. Suitable for horses or fattening cattle/cattleyards, there is also a second road easement to the property.

The opportunity also exists to renovate or rebuild the existing home (STCA). The astute investor will enjoy the peace and serenity this property has to offer.

Inspection will impress - by appointment only.

Mike Foenander 0408 547 677

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73 & 75 Silverleaves Avenue, Silverleaves AUCTION SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2015 IF NOT SOLD PRIOR #75 SILVERLEAVES AVENUE @ 11.00AM #73 SILVERLEAVES AVENUE @ 12 NOON HIGHLY PRIZED, BEACH FRONT on two titles offered either separately or together, the choice is yours.

DECEASED ESTATE: First time offered since 1956.

Silverleaves Avenue represents the pinnacle of Phillip Island property. The quiet avenue steeped in natural beauty features a towering banksia tree canopy which is abundant in bird-song, a feature exclusive to this part of the island. The north facing sandy beach is picture perfect and has provided summer respite and a safe swimming haven within its shallow waters for families over the last century. For the dawn riser, the beach walk is framed with brilliant multi-coloured sunrises guaranteed to make your heart skip a beat and provide inspiration for the day ahead. This natural haven is further enhanced by nearby public parkland.

Both properties have been tightly held in the same family for almost 60 years. # 73: Provides a blank canvas to build your own magnificent beach front dream on. # 75: Has an original early century 3 Bedroom beach house with single garage.

So regardless of whether you seek an idyllic lifestyle, long term investment, or development opportunity the offering of properties side by side on the beach front is very rare.

Jamie Pollock 0418 855 511

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10 Pall Mall, Ventnor

$900,000

FORESHORE OPPORTUNITY ON PALL MALL This property has been held by the same family since 1975 and this is the first time it has been offered for sale. Pall Mall is regarded as the premium location on Phillip Island and is very tightly held.

The home was built in 1985 and offers 180 degree views across the bay to the Mornington Peninsula.

This corner block faces north and is absolute foreshore, with no road between the property and the beach.

The home next door is also listed with our agency so it could be a wonderful opportunity for development.

The vendor would offer vendor terms over a two year period to the suitable purchaser with 30% deposit at 5% p.a interest calculated with quarterly rests.

The property also comes furnished and you will be stunned by the magnificent views from this home. By private inspection.

Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

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5/9-11 Beach Road, Rhyll

$1,145,000

INSPECTION WILL IMPRESS A stunning luxury penthouse, with sweeping views over Westernport Bay and a carefree, low maintenance lifestyle.

Be amazed at this 50sq+ of modern living with four bedrooms plus nursery/study over two spacious levels.

The upper level features the master bedroom suite with WIR and private west facing balcony, grand bathroom with corner spa and spacious living area with butler’s pantry that opens up to a massive balcony with 180 degree bay views.

The entry level offers two hotel quality king size suites each with BIR’s and well-appointed ensuites with spa baths plus a further family bedroom and a nursery/study.

Other features include: spacious open plan living, dining and state of the art kitchen with full width glass windows opening to uninterrupted bay views. The penthouse also has heating and air conditioning in every room, a guest powder room, lock up garage, ample storage and many other impressive features.

There are a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops and nature at your doorstep. The clever design and versatility that this unique penthouse offers is simply breathtaking. Whether you are looking for space for the whole family, or want to run a luxury bed and breakfast, this property is an absolute must to inspect.

Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

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Hotondo Homes

With over 90 clever and practical floorplans, we can work with you to find the right home for you and your family. Whatever your lifestyle and budget, talk to us today about your dream home.

Beachview Design

• Fixed Price with no hidden extras • Over 90 floor plans • Quality & style from a builder you can trust We have Sales & Selection Centres and Display Homes all over Regional Victoria and Metropolitan Melbourne.

For your nearest location visit:

www.hotondo.com.au

1800 677 156

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Dakota Design

summer

it’s all about the house

CP Developments

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Coastal Property Developments

is an innovative 4th generation building company with a focus on excellence.

• new home • renovation • BEFORE

• AFTER

• Specialising in quality coastal homes • Beach houses-unitsapartments- renovations • Sustainable -Site specific design • Outdoor living & lifestyle

Peter Seccull PO 370 Inverloch 3996 Enquiries 0412 563 718 cpdev@bigpond.com

www.coastalpropertydevelopments.com.au coast 138

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DECORATING INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME

Timber panels add architectural integrity to a plain space.

Tall lamps on high-gloss tables balance the visual impact of the room.

The base colour palette is neutral (white and charcoal) while the pomegranate print on the cushions adds a splash of warmth and visual focus.

Over the years, interior designer Ann Cosier has helped many families set up their Island dream-home.

This is primarily a holiday home and we used much of what the owner had to hand. It was both visually and texturally interesting, so there was scope there for creativity and impact. The craft is in knowing how to assemble these items in a space that is otherwise very plain. Using Indonesian timber panels as the headboard coupled with Egyptian cotton sheets, raw silk padded comforter and batik print cushion covers gives architectural integrity to the space. “Downstairs in the lower-floor sitting room, the linen-covered sofa-beds provide additional bedding. These sit alongside timber side-tables topped with collectable indigenous figures and masses of magazines. The Barcelona Chair is an icon of modern movement and exudes simple elegance. It’s the mix of quality pieces and textures that give the room its impact.

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HOMEWARES, GIFTWARES, CLOTHING & SO MUCH MORE

Shop instore or online

157 Marine Parade, San Remo | Open 7 days | (03) 5678 5185 capewindssanremo@gmail.com | www.capewindssanremo.com.au

The smart way to display your chidren’s art

The Original

All of your children’s art transformed into one stunning masterpiece.

Call Karen: 0400 800 081 or 1300 369 084

WhiteRhino/AR/COAST/14

www.ArtRooms.com.au

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Creating Quality Coastal Homes for over 50 years With choices ranging from two to ďŹ ve bedrooms, with double and single storey, brick or modern claddings – there is a design perfect for every lifestyle.

Take a look online at our complete Leisure Range.

Gippsland Sales & Display Centre

coldonhomes.com.au

Cape Paterson Rd (Next to Mitre 10) Wonthaggi Phone. 5672 1999 Open 7 days (closed public holidays) Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm Sat-Sun: 1pm-4pm

Winner 2014 nABD AWArDs Residential New Homes up to $500,000 Construction Cost

Winner 2014 BDAV AWArDs Residential New Homes up to $300,000 Construction Cost

Multi Award Winning Building Designer of Contemporary Sustainable Homes.

332 White Rd. Wonthaggi Tel. (03) 5672 5196

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au coast 142

Phillip Island Sales & Display Centre 36 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Newhaven Phone. 5956 7992 Open Thu to Mon & public holidays 11am to 4:30pm (Closed Tue & Wed)

Phillip Island Display Home Whytesands Estate (Off Ventnor Rd), Cowes Phone. 0408 103 830 Open Weekends & Public Holidays 11am-3pm, or by appointment

mookah studio including a curated collective of independent designers

11 A’Beckett St, Inverloch L&J TUDDIN restorations

www.mookah.com.au

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 Thurs-Sun 10am-4.30pm or by appointment.

RESTORED FURNITURE FROM EUROPE & CHINA

37 Powlett Street, Inverloch Tel/Fax (03) 5674 3982 Email ljrestore@live.com.au

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Vintage - antiQue - uniQue Furniture and HOMeWares We buy and sell Quality brands including • Fler • tessa • ParKer • tH brOWn • FeatHerstOn • danisH deluXe • ZOureFF + MOre

cHecK Out Our range at WWW.sOutHernbaZaar.cOM.au lOcated in a MassiVe WareHOuse at 42 casHin st inVerlOcH (behind Mitre 10) PHOne Wendy WHite On 0407 414 895 eMail southernbazaar@hotmail.com coast 144

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BEACHFRONT

idyll This stunning home on the Balnarring beachfront is a holiday retreat, a family oasis and a future retirement destination.

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

When Richard and Paulene got together 12 years ago, they made a pledge to do something that neither of them had done before. “We are a blended family,” explains Richard. “So we wanted to create something that was just for us, with no history, no legacy.” It was in that spirit of a new frontier that the couple stumbled upon Balnarring, fell in love with the place and bought a house about 1km from the beach.

Several years later, a rare waterfront block came on the market and they jumped at the chance to secure themselves a spot with the ocean on their doorstep.

Fast-forward a decade and they now have a magnificent sixbedroom home with the ocean as the front yard.

“We didn’t want to build a house on the block until we’d had time to think about it,” says Richard. “We spent the first few years working out what we wanted and the best way to build it.” The couple put together their wish list and then went searching for someone to help them realise their dream. They decided to find a builder/designer rather than an architect.

“We had a functionality list, but we hadn’t thought about what it would look like,” explains Richard. “I’ve used architects on other projects, but what looks great on paper can be difficult or expensive to build. So I wanted the person who designed the house to also be building it.” >

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After driving past a Graeme Alexander home in Somers, Richard contacted Graeme and asked him to come up with a concept for the house. “We approached two companies, but we loved the design Graeme gave us. Then we visited about 20 houses that he’d built, and thought they were fabulous.”

Their confidence in Graeme and his team was well placed – the completed home is superb. The house has been angled to maximise the astonishing ocean view and to minimise any contact with the surrounding houses. “When you’re sitting inside looking out, you’d swear we were the only house in the suburb,” smiles Richard. With decks (covered and uncovered) overlooking the water, and glass doors that allow you to see right through the house, the beachfront is part of every aspect of the design.

…a magnificent six-bedroom home with the ocean as the front yard.

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Growing up, working and raising a family on the Peninsula has given Graeme a unique perspective on building in the area. A keen sailor, he understands the weather elements that effect the area and this flows across into his designs. This local knowledge paid dividends when it came to incorporating a pool in the design. “I had envisaged a pool in the front yard, looking right at the beach,” says Richard. “But Graeme was adamant that it had to be behind the house. He was convinced the wind from Westernport would make it too cold and the kids wouldn’t use it. It’s the smartest thing he ever talked me into. The house acts as a windbreak and you can still see the beach through the glass doors at the front and back of the house.” >

aspirations in design Graeme Alexander Homes P/L Designing and building your dream home is a very personal and rewarding experience.

We encourage you to be as much a part of the journey as you wish.

Your involvement increases your enjoyment from the original design lines through to the construction and beyond - we are with you all the way.

Graeme Alexander Homes P/L 1 Albany Way, Mornington Vic 3931 P: 1300 301 055 I F: (03) 5976 4561 I www.gahomes.com.au

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Richard says having a designer/builder meant it was easier to make changes to the project once it got underway.

“Sometimes you change your mind, or the way things look on paper isn’t how it comes together in reality. Graeme’s ability to go back to the drawing-board and make changes was superb.”

A decision to change the downstairs timber bi-folds on the original plan to frameless glass meant Graeme had to source frameless glass and a sliding track system, and adjust the structural plan to hold up the second storey, yet the change in price was relatively mild. “That’s a perfect example of the benefit of working with a designer/builder,” smiles Richard.

Having built and designed many houses for sea- and tree-changers over the years, Graeme was easily able to incorporate the design features that Richard and Paulene wanted in their home. As well as having enough bedrooms to accommodate their five children, the couple’s long-term plan to retire here is reflected in the design. “A lot of thought went into the design,” says Richard. The master bedroom is currently upstairs, but there is a second master bedroom downstairs.

The area we currently use as a bar is actually also a second kitchen, so as we get older, we could change bedrooms and only use the downstairs part of the house.”

For now, though, the couple are happily ensconced upstairs.

With generous balconies and sweeping views of the ocean from the upstairs kitchen, the house really makes the most of the stunning location. Waking up in the morning and being able to get a clear view straight across to Phillip Island and Bass Strait is just one of the things Richard loves about the house. The design is both practical and beautiful. Paulene’s eclectic interior puts the finishing touch on a magnificent home. “She’s incorporated pieces from India and China and added some French provincial,” laughs Richard. “But it all flows – she’s done a magnificent job.”

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Our door is always open.

G.J. Gardner Homes Cowes & Wonthaggi offices are open 7 days a week all year round!

At G.J. Gardner Homes, your friendly, local team ensures the whole building process is simple and stress-free. All our designs are customisable, so you can add your own personal touches throughout.

What’s more, we offer all this choice with build time certainty and a fixed price contract with no hidden extras.

Drop in for a chat at your local G.J. Gardner Homes 1/219 Settlement Rd, Cowes (03) 5952 2150 114-116 Graham St, Wonthaggi (03) 03 5672 1818 gjgardner.com.au

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BUilDerS, DeSigNerS & ArChiteCtS

Beach House Constructions Sustainable homes. Built to last.

We build award-winning sustainable homes along the coast. Our homes are comfortable through all seasons – working with nature and saving on bills year round. We pride ourselves on quality building materials and an exceptional construction team who care about your new home as much as you do.

For those not lucky enough to live by the coast, our city-based business, Modhouse, can help create your dream home in Melbourne. Display home open 11am-3pm Sat & Sun, 201 Thompson Avenue, Cowes.

Call Mark 0418 595 410 www.beachhouseconstructions.com.au www.modhouse.com.au

Beaumont Concepts

Ben Arnold Constructions

Beaumont Concepts has forged a reputation for designing award-winning customdesigned homes since 2001. We’ve built our reputation for unique, functional homes one house at a time, and this year won the National Building Designer of the Year Awards for Best New Home up to $500,000 construction cost and the Victorian Building Designer Award for best New Home up to $300,000 construction cost. We understand clients want innovative sustainable design, precision construction and attention to detail, as well as a high level of customer service and personal involvement. Our knowledge of sustainable design methods ensures your home is environmentallyfriendly and has the highest possible energy rating. Our designs capitalise on natural elements such as sun, shade, air circulation, building materials and water conservation so you can reduce energy output, save money, save water, decrease waste and improve the health of you and the planet.

Ben is a qualified builder and carpenter with over 14 years’ experience. Operating across South Gippsland, his services include new homes, renovations, extensions, decks, carports and pergolas. You can rely on us to complete your home, renovation or extension on time, on budget and to the highest quality.

Call Ben 0408 068 494 www.benarnoldconstructions.com.au

Call 5672 5196 www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

Coldon Homes

Botanic Homes

CP Developments

It all started with a dream to do things better. To build homes of unparalleled quality. To create designs that inspire, and set the benchmark for contemporary living.

We believe there is no greater responsibility than building a family home that provides a lifetime of satisfaction, and our many industry awards are testament to our passion and commitment to deliver this.

Our collection of homes has been created to provide the ultimate in design and comfort.

Coastal Property Developments is an innovative, 4th-generation building company with a focus on excellence in building. They specialise in quality coastal homes, beach houses, units, apartments and quality renovations.

Call 9796 5775 www.botanichomes.com.au

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Call Peter 0412 563 718 cpdev@bigpond.com

For over 50 years Coldon Homes has been building quality coastal and country residences throughout Phillip Island, Wonthaggi and southern Gippsland. We build new homes that suit their landscape and your lifestyle. With choices ranging from two to five bedrooms, double and single storey, brick or modern claddings, there is a design perfect for every block.

Our designs can be tailored to suit your exact requirements. Our Sales and Design Consultants are experts and will show you a range of finishes, fittings and layouts ideal for your project. With three display centres in Bass Coast and six fully- completed displays to look through, Coldon Homes are ready to build your dream home. Visit our website and view our Home Selection Tool or call into a display centre to chat to a consultant.

Call 5672 1999 (Wonthaggi) 5956 7992 (Phillip Island) www.coldonhomes.com.au

BUilDerS, DeSigNerS & ArChiteCtS

Darren Brown Design

Ecoliv Buildings

GJ Gardner Homes

With a strong network of building professionals, consultants and builders, db design removes confusion from the building design and documentation process. Their focus is to provide each client with choice and flexibility throughout every stage of their building project, as well as a unique level of assistance in selecting the right builder, whilst working closely with a qualified building design professional.

Ecoliv prefabricated modular buildings are purpose-designed by award-winning building designer Beaumont Concepts to provide a compact, sustainable housing solution. Our award-winning homes have gained multiple industry recognition, including the 2014 HIA Victorian GreenSmart Energy Efficiency Award. The modular nature of Ecoliv Buildings allows flexibility by arranging predetermined modules in a variety of configurations.

Use the standard modules to create a personalised Ecoliv building to meet your individual living and site requirements, or choose from our range of standard configurations. The functional design utilises ‘lived in’ space and embraces a green approach to permanent or holiday living in urban, rural and remote locations. All Ecoliv modules are fully transportable – Ecoliv Buildings can be factory-built and delivered or simply built to order on site.

“Thank you guys for all the wonderful work you did putting our house together. We have had nothing but the utmost professional and courteous service. Your ability to cater to the alterations we wanted to the design of the house was brilliant and the flexibility of the planning stage to give us our dream holiday/retirement house package was second to none. Once we got building, the communication and excellent workmanship continued to uphold the faith we had in you guys to deliver exactly what we wanted, well-built and exactly how we pictured it. I have had conversations with other people thinking of building or buying property at the Island and I have told them that bar none you guys are the people to deliver their dreams. Please pass on my thanks to all at the office and tradies and let them know there is an extremely happy man relaxing at his new Island Gardner Home.” - Glen Hatton

Call 5672 1144 or 0418 379 301 www.dbdesign.com.au

Call 5672 5196 www.ecoliv.com.au

Graeme Alexander Homes

Hotondo Homes

The development of exciting designs and quality home construction are at the heart of the Graeme Alexander philosophy. Our homes are well-constructed, look good and function properly. It’s been that way on the Mornington Peninsula for 30 years.

Quality and experience don’t just happen: Graeme Alexander Homes’ outstanding team of tradespeople construct homes in a reasonable time to exacting standards. From the initial meeting, through the design phase, construction, choice of fittings and finishes to selecting the colour scheme and beyond … Graeme Alexander Homes are with you all the way.

Hotondo Homes has been building affordable homes for individuals and families since 1979. The family business is dedicated to quality, service and the local communities we work in. There are over 90 home designs to choose from, perfect for first-home buyers, families, investors, and everyone in between. Each design is completely flexible so you can easily turn the house into your dream home. With over 85 franchisees located throughout Australia, Hotondo Homes is one of the country’s largest building networks.

Call 5975 4561 www.gahomes.com.au

Call Gill or Garry 5952 2150 7 days a week www.gjgardner.com.au

Call 1800 677 156 www.hotondo.com.au

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Spectacular point of view Sometimes the planets align on a project … there is certainly some magic in this spectacular house on the cliffs overlooking Smiths Beach.

Ten years ago, Melbourne couple Peter and Kris rented a house in Smiths Beach with their three children and loved it so much they decided they wanted their own place in the estate. After they missed out on a run-down shack on the Smiths Beach cliff-top (“we made an offer and were told it had sold the night before”), they embarked on a seven-year quest to find a property in that location. Four years ago the couple

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decided to take matters into their own hands. “We dropped off a handwritten letter to everyone in the street asking if they were interested in selling,” explains Peter. It was kismet that their letter arrived just as the owners of one house decided that it was time for them to move on. Peter and Kris bought the “lovely cottage” and holidayed in it for a couple of years while they made plans to rebuild.

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As fate would have it, their original Smiths Beach rental belonged to local builder Steve Demos, from Smiths Beach Constructions. After discovering they had mutual friends, they stayed in touch and once their plans started to crystallise, Steve was the obvious choice to help build their cliff-top getaway. Steve introduced them to designer Stephen Smart from Phillip Island Building Design & Drafting. “We had a list of the standard functional requirements, as well as some specific requests,” said Peter. “We told Stephen that we wanted two storeys, big windows to capture the view, a sheltered northern outdoor area and a separate area for the kids. He had licence to do whatever he wanted within those parameters.”

The location presented some design challenges. “The site had a very large slope towards the beach and we wanted an entry that really integrated the top and bottom of the house,” said Peter. “We also wanted to retain the relaxed and welcoming feel of the original house.”

The final building is the breathtaking result of a fantastic collaboration between the owner, builder, designer and landscaper. The close working relationship between Steve Demos and Stephen Smart made changes to design and form easier to incorporate, while having Island Landscape & Design’s Matt Crooks involved from the start ensured the landscaping and outdoor areas were fully integrated rather than an after-thought. Peter and Kris’ openness to change and willingness to explore and experiment with textures and materials also paid big dividends.

review

while surfers paddle out, people walk their dogs and children play along the sand. There is a rustic feel to the expansive room, with signature pieces and clever use of textures (from the natural timber of the dining table to the black rippled heatshield behind the suspended French fireplace) giving the space a sense of understated elegance.

With five bedrooms (three with ensuites), upstairs and downstairs lounges, an internal and an outdoor kitchen and a fabulous outdoor entertainment area, this is the perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy the holiday lifestyle.

The building effortlessly incorporates elements that carry throughout the house. The beautiful recycled spotted gum floorboards match the railings on the staircase balustrade and the cantilevered benches in the master bedroom ensuite.

Stunning imported tiles from Italy that feature prints from the walls of an ancient Italian home are used in every ensuite, while the copper on the front door is echoed in the outdoor kitchen splashback, the garage door and the brass fittings on the outdoor showers. Whether it’s the feature walls of wood or West Australian limestone or a textured lightshade in the bedroom, the house melds together natural fibres and textures to create a warm and welcoming space. The interior decorating was overseen by Kris, with help from James Lambrou and Andrew Mitchell of Melbourne company, Mr Mitchell. >

While every part of this home is impressive, there is no doubt that the upstairs lounge is the centrepiece. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over Smiths Beach, capturing the simply mesmerising view. Framed by huge, rough-hewn timber beams, the windows draw you out to the water. You could sit for hours watching the endless movement of the waves

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- Rough - sawn feature posts & beams - Solid timber flooring & decking - Lining & cladding - New & recycled timbers - Floor installation service - Floor Sanding and Polishing - Delivery all areas

9:00-4:00 Mon-Fri or by appointment 24 The Concourse, Cowes

Phone: 5952 3232 www.tjstimber.com.au

Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring island landscape + design

Matt Crooks . Smiths Beach . Phillip Island. m. 0419 356 222 t. 5952 3838 e. info@islandlandscaping.com.au www.islandlandscaping.com.au coast 154

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The outside area is equally impressive. A clever use of decking and innovative landscaping have broken down the usual indoor/outdoor barriers and created several fabulous entertaining areas. A full outdoor kitchen and dining area is nestled just inside the front gate, opening onto an Asianinspired courtyard garden while the lower deck area includes a sunken lounge with a weather-proof TV and a spa tucked in underneath the stairs that lead up to the front door. The plant selection in the garden ranges from natives at the front and side of the house (to cope with the elements), to almost sculptural grass trees and succulents alongside the garage and then gardenias and magnolias in the Asian-inspired garden next to the gazebo.

This truly impressive house is the result of a willingness to adjust and experiment rather than stick to a rigid plan. “We were all open to trying new ideas and materials to get the right result,” says Steve Demos. Landscaper Matt Crooks relished the opportunity to work with the builder and designer from the very start. “I had a pretty big vested interest in it and once it started evolving, we could see it was going to be an amazing job. It’s just a great way to build a house.

Local tradesmen really know the local environment and understand how the elements will impact on a building, so what’s been delivered is quite an improvement on the original plans.” Peter agrees. “Everyone who worked on the project fell in love with the site and really wanted to make a difference.

Steve was a dream to work with - he had such a can-do attitude. Everyone did. They all made suggestions and we incorporated them and the outcome is genius.” Even a delay caused by problems with the supplier of the main lounge-

room windows turned out to be a blessing. “If that hadn’t happened, we wouldn’t have had the chance to reflect on the flow of the design and incorporate a lot of the changes,” said Peter. One of his personal favourites was the decision to use a 3D timber cladding on the external entry walls and outdoor area to create a unique effect and character for the building.

Steve Demos describes the project as a “labour of love” and that love and attention to detail shines through in every aspect. For Peter, just walking in the front gate gives him joy.

“The whole feel of the place is relaxed and timeless … like a wonderful 70s beach-shack. The house sits in its environment so well. Getting out of bed and walking into the lounge to watch the sunrise over a beautiful beach is unbelievable. That view is a knock-out.”

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the breathtaking result of a fantastic collaboration between owner, builder and designer Phillip Island

Building Design & Drafting

Smiths Beach Constructions a n d D e s i g n Pty/Ltd

Stephen Smart Dip. Building Design & Architectural Drafting

Alison Smart BA Fine Art / Sculpture

DP-AD 26446

Ph: 5956 6845 Fax: 5956 7472 Mob: 0419 920 853

Email: smar tdesign@water front.net.au 30 Seesburg St. Cape Woolamai 3925 www.hipages.com.au/professional/43422

Ph: 5956 6845 Fax: 5956 7472 Mob: 0419 920 853 30 Seesburg St Cape Woolamai 3925 E: smartdesign@waterfront.net.au W: hipages.com.au/professional/43422

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Ph: 5952 2734 Mob: 0417 946 878 243 Smiths Beach Rd Smiths Beach 3925 E: sldemos@bigpond.com

BUilDerS, DeSigNerS & ArChiteCtS

Langford Jones Homes Langford Jones Homes has been building quality affordable homes in the Bass Coast area, the South Gippsland shire and on the Mornington Peninsula for over 40 years.

The company has display homes across the Bass Coast and specialises in mainly coastal designs with a large range of plans. Langford Jones Homes is regarded as a friendly family business which is one of the best in the Bass Coast area. We have supported the local economy for more than 40 years and can build any design.

Call 9579 2277 www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au

Phillip Island Building Design & Drafting

Smiths Beach Constructions

Stephen Smart has over 30 years experience in the industry and believes design should be aesthetically pleasing and functional and encompass all elements of passive solar design. Good design is about intelligent use of space and materials and orientating your home appropriately, working with the climate and the landscape. Services include design, architectural drafting, town planning, engineering design, land surveying, energy rating and soil reports.

The Smiths Beach Constructions team is passionate about design and building. With quality workmanship, our contemporary, individual, site-specific designs are based on light, sun and space and are constructed in consultation with the individual client’s brief.

Call 5952 2734 or 0417 946 878

Call 5956 6845 or 0419 920 853

iNterior DeSigN & fUrNiShiNgS TS Constructions TS Constructions has shaped the built environment throughout southern Gippsland. From much-loved family homes through to workplaces, schools, hospitals and offices, people are constantly encountering the results of our labours.

Working from architects’ plans, or using our experienced design and construct services, TS Constructions can deliver a high-quality, innovative and professional build. ISOcertified to three international standards (Quality, Safety and Environment) and with extensive experience in environmental products and methods, our clients can be assured their project will progress smoothly and with no surprises.

Visit our website to view our work and discover our capabilities, or phone to make an appointment to discuss your next project.

Call 5672 2466 www.tsconstructions.com.au

Artrooms

Cape Winds

Do you love having your children’s artwork on display, but yearn to have a clear space on the fridge door? Artrooms provides a modern, organized display solution, taking your child’s drawings and painting and transforming them into one collective work of art.

Add the finishing touches to your new home or renovation with something from Cape Winds’ unique selection of homewares. Whether you need ornaments or crockery, luxurious throws or a colourful and eclectic cushion you are sure to find the perfect piece to complement your room. Cape Winds showcases a great range of locally-made products and Australianowned companies and also offers giftware, jewellery and fashion.

ArtRooms - a smart way to display children’s art.

Call 0400 800 081 www.artrooms.com.au

Call 5678 5185 www.capewindssanremo.com

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NEW

Sustainable design, Smart living 8 Star Display Home Now Open

2014 HIA VIctorIAn HousIng AwArds GreenSmart Energy Efficiency

Ecoliv’s factory built modular homes use fewer resources and energy to ensure minimal site disturbance right from the start. Our transportable designs allow you to adapt, change or add to your home with ease by simply arranging predetermined modules in a variety of configurations. Each home configuration features 7 star thermal performance rating for affordable, comfortable and sustainable living.

Standard inclusions: 3 Solar Hot Water 3 Solar Electricity 3 Energy efficient lighting 3 Electricity usage meter 3 Maximum star rated appliances

3 10,000 litre water tank configuration 3 Water saving plumbing fittings 3 Double glazed windows 3 No VOC Ecolour paints 3 Renewable plantation timber

3 EarthWool insulation 3 Boral Enviro plasterboard 3 Green First Laminex joinery 3 100% wool carpet 3 Reconstituted Ceasarstone benches

Visit our display home at 332 White Road Wonthaggi Ph. 5672 5196

www.ecoliv.com.au coast 158

Please respect our beaches Each day over 8 million pieces of rubbish are dumped into the world’s oceans, killing birds, fish and mammals Take your rubbish with you when you leave Our beaches are beautiful - let’s keep them that way

proudly sponsored by 40 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven Open 6 Days Mon to Sat 10am till 4pm Sunday by appointment.

Mark: 0418 355 148 www.findingthegrain.com.au factory@findingthegrain.com.au

Your Luxaflex Showcase Dealer

blinds, drapes & awnings

quality & service at a great price • free onsite advice, measure & quotation

blinds • drapes • awnings showroom/office 22a cashin st inverloch 3996 tel 03 5674 6247 • fax 03 8668 1648 • email invint@bigpond.net.au • www.invisageinverloch.com.au coast 159

iNterior DeSigN & fUrNiShiNgS

Finding the Grain

Invisage

Timber solutions for your home using unique reclaimed timbers. Environmentallyaware clients can enjoy lasting timber furniture without the huge price tag.

The driving force behind the continued success of Invisage Blinds, Drapes and Awnings is their desire to serve clients with the best of innovative ideas and quality product at competitive prices, all with exceptional service. Specialising in sales and installation of competitively-priced internal and external window furnishings, Invisage has the answers to keep the heat out of your home this summer.

Call 0418 355 148 www.findingthegrain.com.au

Servicing South Gippsland, Bass Coast and surrounding areas (including Melbourne) they provide free advice, measure and quotations for all your window-covering needs.

L&J Tuddin Antiques & Restorations Let the experienced team at L&J Tuddin help you find that unique piece to decorate your home. The gallery houses an extensive selection of antiques and contemporary furnishing and artifacts from Europe and China, and also offers private restoration services.

Call 5674 3982 ljrestore@live.com.au

Call 5674 6247 www.invisageinverloch.com.au

Mookah Studios

South Coast Kitchens

Southern Bazaar

Mookah is a small independent handmade label offering a range of stylish, contemporary and eco-friendly homewares, textiles and accessories. Our focus has always been on using fabrics that are predominantly inspired by nature to reflect the local environment, with our studio nestled in Victorian coastal bushland.

We love working with natural fibres such as hemp, linen and organic cotton. Most of the textiles we choose to work with are hand screen-printed fabrics designed by us or other Australian textile designers who share our love of natural fibres and the environment.

Competitive joinery for all budgets, domestic and commercial, local experienced tradesman, using quality hardware with the latest machinery. Visit our recently-updated showroom located in Newhaven.

Southern Bazaar is a warehouse full of secondhand furniture with style, from designer retro pieces to rustic country furniture, antiques, Asian and Industrial.

With stock changing daily you are always sure to find that one-off piece to make your home unique. Located in the Industrial Estate in Inverloch at 42 Cashin Street.

Call Leisa 0419 306382 Nicole 0420 935189 www.mookah.com.au

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Call 5956 7415 info@southcoastkitchens.com.au www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

Call 0407 414 895 www.southernbazaar.com.au

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Ben Arnold 0408 068 494 info@benarnoldconstructions.com.au www.benarnoldconstructions.com.au

940245

www.facebook.com/benarnoldconstructions

www.benarnoldconstructions.com.au

New Homes www.benarnoldconstructions.com.au Extensions Renovations Bathrooms Decks Free Quotes

Ben Arno 0408 068 info@ben www.ben

New Homes Extensions Renovations Carports Pergolas Decks

www.fa

New Home

Any design work and/or layouts produced by Signx sent to the intended recipient is copyright and must not be used in any form by any other source without the authorised consent of Signx.Until full payment has been made, all production work including materials and designs provided by Signx remains the property of Signx.

www.benarnoldconstructions.com.au

info@banarnoldconstructions.com.au

0408 068 494

www.facebook.com/benarnoldconstructions

Any design work and/or layouts produced by Signx sent to the intended recipient is copyright and must not be used in any form by any other source without the authorised consent of Signx.Until full payment has been made, all production work including materials and designs provided by Signx remains the property of Signx.

Coastal Refrigeration & Airconditioning we don’t just install, we look after you . . .

Servicing Phillip Island & surrounding areas

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC REFRIGERATION & AIRCONDITIONING Sales, Installation & service of all major brands.

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.

Shop 2/65A Back Beach Road, San Remo 5678 5190 After hours commercial breakdown coastalrefrigandaircon@bigpond.com www.coastalrefrigandaircon.com.au ARC Authorisation No: AU22840

www.mhiaa.com.au coast 161

eleCtriCAlS

Coastal Refrigeration & Airconditioning Rick North and staff offer quality and reliability when it comes to air-conditioning and refrigeration sales, service and repairs – with fully qualified and accredited trade technicians. We are a Mitsubishi heavy industries dealer/service agent.

We not only offer new installation and service, we can also offer an honest opinion on whether repairing your product is a viable option.

Call 5678 5190 www.coastalrefrigandaircon.com.au

Shorelec Electrical Let Shorelec help you with all your electrical needs. With over 22 years’ experience, we have a proven track record. We can quote, supply and install airconditioning (reverse cycle, cooling and ducted split systems), heating (wood, gas and electric) as well as supplying commercial and domestic appliances. We also have a wide range of trade electrical, data, voice, lighting and other everyday goods in store.

Call 5678 5361 or 0438 340 947 www.shorelec.com.au

Wonthaggi Home Appliances A one-stop shop for all your electrical and kitchen needs, from microwaves to washing machines, televisions to telephones. Wonthaggi Home Appliances are airconditioning specialists and also stock an extensive range of kitchen and cookware, range hoods, ovens, cooktops and dishwashers. We have a huge range of homewares including Maxwell and Williams.

Whatever your needs or budget, we will help you find the perfect appliances for your new home or renovation. Guaranteed next-day delivery on stocked items.

Call 5672 4733 www.wonthaggiha.com.au

95 Marine Parade, San Remo Phone: 03 5678 5361 Fax: 03 5678 5362 Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm) Saturday (8am – 1pm)

Electrical Wholesalers Heating & Cooling Whitegoods Lighting Electrical Components Music Supplies

Everything and anything electrical coast 162

timBer, gArDeN & oUtDoorS

Island Landscape and Design Matt and his team believe there is great benefit in starting with a landscape design or master plan for your outdoor area. You’ll save money in the long run and achieve the desired outcome for your garden. A well-designed outdoor area is a fantastic way to maximise your appreciation of our stunning coast.

Native Grain Timber Floors

TJ’s Timber

We specialise in creating timber floors to suit individual taste with the highest quality finishes. We lay, sand and polish new and existing timber floors using a wide range of coatings from natural oils to polyurethane.

Experienced, friendly & reliable, we provide a premier flooring service.

TJ’s Timber sell new and recycled timbers.

Their quality (new) timbers are sourced from responsibly-managed forests in Australia and overseas. Recycling timber is the environmentally friendliest form of timber production. TJ’s Timber can supply a great range of new and recycled feature posts and beams, solid timber flooring, decking, unique slabs, cladding, internal linings and screening.

Call Chris 0409 333 623 chris@nativegraintimberfloors.com

Call 0419 356 222 www.islandlandscaping.com.au

Call 5952 3232 www.tjstimber.com.au

w

N ative G rain T i m b e r

F l o o r s

Premier flooring services

Laying, sanding & polishing of strip timber, engineered & existing flooring.

Extensive variety of coatings available including environmentally friendly, water base and hard wax oils.

0409 333 623 chris@nativegraintimberfloors.com www.facebook.com/nativegraintimberfloors www.nativegraintimberfloors.com

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coast style

Sophie Jones, owner of Petite Collections, stocks an exquisite range of homewares .

“When you decorate your home, find a common thread,” advises Sophie. “Use pieces that reflect your personality. You want to be comfortable in the style of your surroundings.”

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decorating inspiration for your home

She calls the decorating inspiration for her own kitchen ‘reminiscent’. “This is quite a modern home, but I wanted to soften the edges a little. Whilst the scales on the bench are antique, various other aspects are reproduction pieces, comfortably meshing the old with the new.” Sophie’s love of natural fibres and timbers carried across the room, the wooden stools, and various accent pieces throughout.

Sophie worked with a neutral backdrop, highlighted with splashes of yellow – “this adds warmth into the rooms.”

She recommends creating a portable mood- board. “I carried samples of my paint colours etc. with me. If I saw a piece I liked, I could buy it with confidence as I knew it would flow with the styling of my home.”

Our focus at db design is to provide each client with choice and flexibility throughout every stage of your building project.

From initial meetings and concept drawings, dealing with relevant authorities and specialist consultants, final detailed drawings and documentation, through to selecting a builder and even project management services, we provide clarity and direction that ensures the design and documentation process remains seamless.

With a focus on providing absolute clarity, direction and choice we will push the boundaries of good design philosophies, whilst embracing sustainable building methods, in the pursuit of exceeding our clients’ expectations.

Consulting Services • Architectural Drafting • Energy Ratings • Soil Testing • Bushfire assessments • Engineering (all disciplines) • Town Planning • Land Surveying

Design Services • Custom Homes • Select Homes (standard designs) • Multi Residential Developments • Commercial Developments • Renovations

w w w. d b d e s i g n . c o m . a u Phone: 03 5672 1144 Darren Brown Design Pty Ltd t/as db design

Office/ Display Home: 47 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995 Victoria.

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Shared DNA There is a common element running through hundreds of buildings in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland region which may not be immediately obvious, but is significant and worthy of celebration.

Over the past 20 years TS Constructions has shaped the built environment by applying their skills to hundreds of diverse projects. It may be a much loved family home, a cutting edge apartment block, a busy and vibrant school building, a supermarket, shop, office or an essential piece of community infrastructure such as an ambulance or CFA station. In fact it would be almost impossible to live in the region and not encounter their work in some way or shape. It’s an impressive portfolio.

2015 is a significant year for the five Directors of TS Constructions. There are few businesses in the building sector that have grown and prospered in such difficult conditions, let alone carved such a high reputation for excellence as they have.

To discover how to create the perfect home for Coastal living, contact TS Constructions on 5672 2466.

Whilst their commercial buildings are accessible and obvious, it is harder to pin down their influence in building private homes.

Each family home built by TS Constructions is unique. It is a process of collaboration between the owner, designer and builder, and therefore no ‘signature design’ identifies a TS Constructions home as such. However the exception level of quality and finish is clearly their signature, and a nonnegotiable component of every project they undertake.

Builders of Distinctive, Designer Homes TS Constructions create living spaces that are stunning, innovative and finished to perfection. Their aim is to work with owners and designersto develop living spaces that have the ‘wow’ factor.

03 5672 2466

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admin@tsconstructions.com.au

www.tsconstructions.com.au

WINNER Betta Store of the Year 2014

A Great Range of Homewares Available

Visit our new online website for convenient online shopping! family owned and operated 15-17 Murray St Wonthaggi | 5672 4733 Online Store | www.gippslandhomeliving.com.au coast 167

Domestic • Commercial • Wardrobes • Creative Storage Wardrobe Sliding Doors • Toilet Petitions • Shop Fit Outs • Solid Timber Joinery

tel: 03 5956 7415

www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

28 boys home road, newhaven, phillip island, info@southcoastkitchens.com.au

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in a g re rs dinast Ayea l i Bu Co 40 ss er a B r ov fo

Visit Langford Jones Homes Display Centres: Phillip Island and Wonthaggi.

NEW SEA QUEST DISPLAY AT COWES NOW OPEN

www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au

Melbourne: 03 9579 2277 Email: sales@ljhomes.com.au

LJ0110

Our passion is to build beautiful, functional stairs that become a statement for your home or project. No job is too big or too small - we are the stair specialists.

Carpet • Timber • Laminate • Vinyl Bamboo • Cork • Internal Blinds & Shutters External Blinds & Awnings K.B. CARPET COURT 33 Bair Street, Leongatha Ph: (03) 5662 4164 PHILLIP ISLAND CARPET COURT 9 The Concourse, Cowes Ph: (03) 5952 6377 www.carpetcourt.com.au Factory 2, 24-26 Boys Home Rd, Newhaven P (03) 59 566 628 F (03) 59 566 657 M 0414 932 432 www.juststairs.com.au coast 169

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

A nursery that will suprise and delight every garden lover

• Rare & unusual plants • Antique furniture • Garden tools • Garden wares

A gorgeous range of products including Australian designers locally handmade fair trade

• Unique pots • Landscape design consultancy available 1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick - 10am - 4pm wed to sun

2/17 The Esplanade, Cowes 3922 0400 569 663 petitecollections@bigpond.com

Phone: 5628 5316 or 0417 056 110

www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au

VAN STEENSEL TIMBERS BUILDING MATERIALS & WATER TANKS

Furniture Home Decor Lighting Bathroom

Indoor & Outdoor Gifts Thurs-Sun 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm (Wed on School holidays) 34 Bear Street, Inverloch Phone: 0402 712 707 www.salasiam.com.au

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

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

Open every day from 9:00am, this is a one-of-a-kind window into surfing culture that is not to be missed.

Islantis at the Big Wave Complex 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road, Newhaven 03 5956 7553 E: info@islantis.com.au

10-12 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN, VIC , 3925 PH: 59567553

Heather

g estudio c kgallery o

Fahnle

M O S A I C S B Y T H E B AY

Mosaic Classes with Heather Fahnle

15 Falls Road Fish Creek 03 5683 2481 0423 721 593 0421 209 878

It’s therapeutic, fun and creative.

All materials and lunch supplied. *Commissions Available

monthly exhibitions of contemporary artwork | art materials | picture framing | jewellery | ceramics e: framing@geckostudiogallery.com.au w: geckostudiogallery.com.au opening times thurs-mon 10am-5pm

Open everyday Mid Dec - End of Jan

Phone or email Heather for bookings www.fahnle.com.au | Mosaics By The Bay e: heather@fahnle.com.au | t: 0417 562 625

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

This ground-breaking exhibit consists of a multi media experience showcasing Australia’s role in surf culture and features the first ever 360° wrap around surf movie featuring Phillip Island’s iconic Woolamai Beach breaks.

A ground-breaking exhibit consists including iconic memorabilia including a Bell’s Trophy from Rip Curl and an unrivalled collection of vintage surfboards.

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

Wonthaggi ArtSpace Kongwak Gallery is now a treasure trove of pre-loved, retro, vintage & more...

OPENS AT 10AM

7 McBride Avenue,Wonthaggi.

Open Thursday to Monday, 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Phone: 03 5672 1415 www.wonthaggiartspace.com.au

The market is closed on the 21st December and reopens 28th December.

Open every Sunday in Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.

Main Street, KONGWAK, Victoria (only 10 minutes from Inverloch) For more info call Jane on 0417 142 478

New & Gently Used Quality Goods Cheeki Stainless Steel Bottles Short Story ‘Hope in a Box’ Mind, Body & Spirit CD’s Himalayan Salt Lamps Japanese Incense Silver Jewellery Oracle Cards Inspiration Cards Body Jewellery Bric-a-brac, Books Hats, Bags, Scarves Black Ice Sunglasses Gemstones: Tumbled, Specimens & Jewellery Bella Donna Harmony Balls Clothing for Ladies, Men & Kids San Marco Wildflower Jewellery 31 Main Street Foster Ph: 5682 1381 Weekdays 10am-5pm Sat 9:30am-4pm Sun 10am-4pm Open 7 Days from Melbourne Cup Day to Easter

wwwmainstreetrevelations.com.au coast 172

Enjoy fine wine by the glass or choose your favourite bottle to have with your BYO food, in the cosy wine lounge or al fresco soaking up the magic of Mordialloc.

Ask our staff for a tasting to help you choose the perfect wine to take home and enjoy.

Open 7 days 622 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9580 6521 www.mordycellardoor.com.au

All your picture framing needs Huge selection of frames, professional & helpful advice Gallery of local artworks and framed prints

Ph: 5674 1333

Mob: 0409 809 855

Shop K / 10 A’Beckett St Inverloch framedinverloch@bigpond.com

Your pickup and delivery solution!

Have you bought or sold furniture or art on Ebay or Gumtree?

Need something picked up from Freedom Furniture or Ikea?

Got some old furniture or beds destined for the tip?

Nature-based getaway Call Eric for a firm quote

0407 807 915

www.sanremotransport.com.au PhilliP island • Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula • giPPsland

Wilsons Prom Holiday Accommodation 90 places to stay. Book online or phone the property.

Availability calendar and secure online bookings.

Properties are located in and around South Gippsland and on the way to the Prom...

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coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

Quality Framing at very Competitive Prices

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

directory Accommodation Prom Country.

Ramada Resort Phillip Island Silverwater Resort Mackaloucoo Retreats

Government & Schools 173 43 107 77

Bass Coast Shire Council 68 CFA 18 Newhaven College 77 West Gippsland Library 173 Westernport Water 8

143

Green & Gardens Island Landscape & Design Jindivick Country Gardener Tropical Zone Flowers

Antiques L&J Tuddin Antique

Artists & Galleries

Annette Spinks 35 ArtFusion Gallery 59 Cheryl Petersen Galleries 22 Gecko Studio & Gallery 171 Goldsmith’s Gallery 53 Gooseneck Pottery 91 Kelly & Gemelli 57 Manyung Gallery 62 McClelland Gallery 90 Mingara 29 Mosaics by the Bay 171 Without Pier 90 Wonthaggi Art Space 172

Automotive

Edney’s Leongatha Mercedes-Benz Berwick

32 13

Builders & Designers

Beachhouse Constructions 149 Beaumont Concepts 142 Ben Arnold Constructions 161 Botanic Homes 139 Coldon Homes 142 CP Developments 138 Darren Brown Design 165 Ecoliv 158 Graeme Alexander Homes 147 GJ Gardner 149 Hotondo 136 Langford Jones 169 Phillip Island Building Design & Drafting 156 Smiths Beach Constructions 156 TS Construction 166

Electricals

Shorelec 162 Wonthaggi Home Appliances 167

Entertainment

Baker Boys Between the Bays Beyond the Valley Kongwak Market Summer of Soul Turn the Page West Gippsland Arts Centre

Fashion

124 67 180 172 59 176 31

Luxe Tropic 47 Petite Collections 170 Sketa 11

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154 170 42

Hair, Health & Beauty Beachside Hair & Beauty 86 San Remo Pharmacy 47 Shima 36 Voyage Fitness 98 YMCA 175

Homewares & Furniture Artrooms 141 Cape Winds 141 Finding the Grain 159 Framed at Inverloch 173 Invisage 159 Main Street Revelations 172 Mookah Studios 143 Sala Siam 170 Southern Bazaar 144

Jewellery Denis A Hawkins 32 Goldsmith’s Gallery 53 Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery 4

Professional Services Bendigo Bank - San Remo District Financial Services 94 San Remo Transport 173

Property & Lifestyle Alex Scott Phillip Island Cape Paterson Eco Village Judith Wright Stockdale & Leggo Mountain View Leongatha Seagrove Estate Woolamai House

179 6 125 97 2 23

Food, Cafes & Restaurants Aherns Fruit Market 121 Asian Kitchen 101 Beand 100 Churchill Island Cafe 109

Connell’s Bakery 115 Esplanade Hotel 110 Fish Creek General Store 116 Flinders Hotel - Terminus 111 Harry’s on the Esplanade 118 Kernot Store 102 Kilcunda General Store 117 La Provincia 118 Leongatha Health Nutrition & Whole Food 120 Manna Gum@Broadbeach 108 Old Dalyston Deli 120 Porter Republic 119 The Chutney Bar 111 The Fat Seagull 111 The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant 112 Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria 100 Vaughan’s Cafe & Deli 103 Watermark@Silverwater 107 Westernport Hotel 117 Welshpool Hotel Motel 112 Woolamai Pizza 117 Youki’s 103

Surfing Islantis 171 Island Surfboards 72 Rip Curl 171

Tourism & Travel Horseback Winery Tours Phillip Island Chocolate Factory Phillip Island Nature Parks State Coal Mine Vietnam Vets Museum

49 80 82 91 31

Trades & Hardware Carpet Court Coastal Refrigeration Just Stairs Native Grain Timber Floors South Coast Kitchens TJ’s Timbers Van Steensels Timbers

169 161 169 163 168 154 170

Venues Wilson Botanic Park

57

Wineries Harman Wines Mordialloc Cellars Purple Hen

42 172 53

Stockists Balnarring Newsagent Bass General Store Beaumaris News Berwick Newsagency Blairgowrie Newsagency Black Rock Newsagency Corinella General Store Coronet Bay General Store Cape Woolamai Bottlo Cowes Mobil Cowes Newsagent Cranbourne Newsagency Dalyston General Store Dumbalk Store Fish Creek Newsagency Fish Creek BP Flinders General Store Foster Newsagent Frankston Newsagency Grantville Newsagent Hampton Newsagency Hastings Newsagency Inverloch BP Inverloch Newsagent Inverloch Foodworks Kilcunda General Store Koonwarra Store Koo Wee Rup News Korumburra Newsagent Lang Lang News Leongatha Newsagent Loch - Hard Loch Cafe Meeniyan Newsagent Mirboo North Newsagent Middle Brighton News Mornington Newsagent Mt Martha Newsagent Mt Eliza Newsagency Newhaven Newsagency Pakenham Newsagency Pearcedale Newsagency Rhyll General Store Silverleaves General Store Newhaven Newsagent Smiths Beach Store Red Hill General Store Sandringham Newsagency Sandy Point General Store San Remo Foodworks San Remo Newsagent San Remo - Freedom Fuels Sorrento Newsagency Tarwin Lower Supermarket Tooradin Newsagent Tyabb Newsagency Venus Bay Store Ventnor Store Wilsons Prom - Tidal River Store Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi Ritchies IGA Wonthaggi - Mezza Luna Cafe Wonthaggi BP Yanakie Store

fitness

YMCA BASS COAST BUILDS healthy COMMUNITIES The YMCA has been a leader in community development in the Bass Coast area over the past 15 years. Through their relationship with Bass Coast Shire Council managing the recreation centres, the YMCA has the opportunity to build strong people, strong families and strong communities. The YMCA operates a number of youth and community services, with the aim to help people to be healthier and happier and more connected to their community.

Bass Coast Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP): The YMCA recently received Bass Coast Shire Council community grant funding to provide a series of education and workshop sessions on the prevention of violence against women.

Through this initial funding, the YMCA has also started working with Primary Care Partnerships and Gippsland Women’s Health and will continue to offer these sessions throughout Gippsland once this funding has ended.

Bass Coast Aquatic & Leisure Centre 41 Wentworth Rd, Wonthaggi 5672 4194

YMCA Bass Coast FReeZA: Funded through DHS, YMCA FReeZA aims to offer drug and alcohol free music events for young people throughout the year. Events, organised by a team of young volunteers, include live music and skate park jam sessions with a DJ or live music. Starting soon are jam sessions for young up-and-coming musicians to give them the opportunity to play together and learn from their peers.

Recently the YMCA was also involved in the ‘Be Heard’ grant, bringing young people together to learn about music production and radio presenting.

Phillip Island Leisure Centre 10-14 Church Street, Cowes 5952 2811

www.basscoast.ymca.org.au

YMCA Bass Coast Skate Services: As well as providing safety and supervision at three major skate parks and a mobile skate park, the YMCA also delivers a number of programs for young people including coaching clinics, skate and BMX trips to Melbourne, skate competitions and jam sessions. The YMCA will soon be offering skate park birthday parties at Wonthaggi and Cowes.

YMCA Bass Coast Youth Mentoring: This program has been operating for the past seven years in the Bass Coast area and provides volunteer mentors, who meet weekly with year nine students from Newhaven College and Wonthaggi Secondary College. Students have been identified by the school as needing motivation and guidance so they remain engaged in school and also connected with the community.

If you would like any further information on any of these programs or would like to become a volunteer mentor or part of the FReeZA committee, we would love to hear from you. Please see our contact information below.

Our qualified staff and modern equipment combine to offer you a great Health Club catering for almost all training goals.

Gym • Cycle Studio • Group fitness • Sauna • Creche

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a good read MILES FRANKLIN AWARD WINNER 2014

Winnie the Pooh: Complete Stories and Poems Deluxe Edition

by A A Milne Looking for that absolutely special keepsake present for christening, Christmas or if you just love beautiful books? With only a limited number brought into Australia, this will not be available once stock runs out and I only have four for sale. The stylishly designed outer box has a sumptuous matt finish with gold and blue foil, with tree motif edging. The box opens to reveal a ribboned envelope containing four beautiful prints of iconic Winnie-the-Pooh illustrations, perfect for framing. Under the envelope is the book itself, bound in padded imitation cloth with gold and blue foil. Each book is individually numbered, and contains the four original Pooh books by A.A. Milne and illustrated

by E.H. Shepard: Winnie-the-Pooh, The House at Pooh Corner, When We Were Very Young and Now We Are Six. This gorgeous package is $250, but it is something you will treasure forever.

NON-FICTION

Long Narrow Road to the Deep North

The Never, Um, Ever Ending Story

by Richard Flanagan

by Ian Molly Meldrum

This is Richard’s much deserved winner of the Man Booker Prize 2014.

A novel about the cruelty of war, tenuousness of life and the impossibility of love. In the despair of a Japanese POW camp on the Thai-Burma death railway, Australian surgeon Dorrigo Evans is haunted by his love affair with his uncle’s young wife two years earlier.

Struggling to save the men under his command from starvation, cholera and beatings, he receives a letter that will change his life forever. This is a story about love and death, of war and truth, as one man comes of age, prospers, only to discover all that he has lost. It is a big, magnificent novel of passion, horror and tragic irony. This beautifully written book is Richard’s very personal way of telling the story of his father’s time on “The Line” and the impact it had in so many ways on so many people across many years.

‘More than thirty-five years in the making, this is the story of Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum and the television show that stopped the nation.

In 1974 Molly was working as a record producer and music journalist when he was offered the chance to be the talent co-ordinator of a new music show called Countdown. As they say, the rest is history.

Along the way he talked, partied, argued, exchanged blows and became firm friends with a roll-call of the world’s greatest musical names. Sir Elton John famously described him as ‘the best thing that ever happened to Australian music.’ Filled with outrageous anecdotes and a kaleidoscopic cast of musos, colourful characters and international superstars, Molly’s story is hilarious, vivid, warm and an always compelling memoir of his chaotic, incredible life and the show that made him famous.

picture book

picture book

Lindberg: The Tale of a Flying Mouse

by Torben Kuhlmann One small step for a mouse, one giant leap for aviation. A new invention, the mechanical mousetrap, has caused all but one little mouse to flee to America, the land of the free. In his efforts to join his friends, this industrious mouse has a brilliant idea – he must learn to fly! Debut illustrator Torben Kuhlmann’s inventive tale and stunning illustrations will capture the imagination of readers of all ages with the death defying feats of this courageous young mouse. You will open this book and be swept away by the story and the absolutely magnificent artwork.

TOP DOGS

by Angela Goode Books with dogs on the cover, and especially our beloved Aussie working dogs, are always a winner. Ask anyone who lives and works on the land and they will tell you that a good working dog is the heart and soul of rural life. In this joyous tribute to Australia’s working dogs, people all over the country share their favourite stories and photos of the incredible dogs that make such a huge difference to their lives each day. These cheerful workaholics are celebrated in tales of heroism, extraordinary intuition, unflagging dedication and intelligence.

Proudly independent

...a book is a place We can help find that special book for yourself or to give as a gift.

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40a Thompson Ave, Cowes P: 03 5952 1444 E: lois.turnthepage@bigpond.com W: turnthepagebookshop.com.au

young & inspired Ebony Maier loves to draw, to build and repurpose furniture, and to work out the most effective use of space in a room. So next year, the passionate surfer is leaving the beaches behind to study interior design at Swinburne University.

words as told to eleanor mckay photo warren reed

I’ve just had a gap year, which included two months surfing in Indonesia with my dad.

Surfing is an escape for me because it can clear my mind. Drawing is also an escape. You can drift off and just keep drawing.

Interior design isn’t just about how things look.

It’s using the structure of the building and designing it in a way to create features, including interior decorating.

I realised I wanted to be an interior designer quite early. In Year 9 we had to make a house from shipping containers – and something clicked. I thought, ‘This is what I want to do.’

All through school I loved doing projects and making models – the physical thing of actually making something. I’m a hands-on person. I love being able to draw something and know exactly how it’s going to turn out.

I’ve been inspired by my mum, who’s a visual merchandiser and has a great eye for decorating and style, while dad is a very precise builder.

I suppose they’ve both encouraged me to do something creative. I enjoy using natural resources in my designs, and I like products that reflect the culture of a place, that have an ethnicity.

Different people and places inspire me, so I would definitely like to travel once I’ve finished my degree. I’d like to go to Brazil, because it’s got so many cultures and so many different people.

I find inspiration in lots of places. In Hawthorn, there’s a coffee shop that I love called Porgy & Mr Jones. It’s an old building with raw bricks and so much character. They didn’t knock down all the walls: they’ve kept its natural, broken-down self and created a wonderful atmosphere – you feel like you’re not in the modern era. I love old things, and I love keeping their original character but also changing it completely – repurposing it.

I’ve done a project to redesign a local café, and I also volunteer at our community garden, where I’m helping to redesign the interior spaces. It’s a slow process because funds are really tight.

When I did work experience with Melissa Chen, an interior designer in Melbourne, she really opened my eyes to different fabrics and ideas.

She encouraged me to explore design stores and products in key inner city areas. Interior design is about your knowledge of products and how you interpret your vision from concept to completion. When I walk into a room I see what could be done to improve the design, layout and styling.

I don’t really want to leave Phillip Island and move to the city, but my mum inspired me to do the course and get a qualification, so I can achieve my dream of being a successful interior designer.

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where am I?

“I love the way the ocean has carved and smoothed these rocks to give them such amazing texture. I also love the contrast between the steel grey and burnt orange.

This is part of an incredible piece of coastline.�

Coast photographer Warren Reed captured this fabulous image during one of his shoots for the Summer edition.

Do you think you know where it might be?

Why not drop us a line on Twitter or Facebook and tag your suggestions #coastwhereami @ourcoastmag CoastMagazineAustralia

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F R OM T H E MOUNTAI NS TO THE S EA

CLASSIC GOOD SERVICE Since 1886

We’ve enjoyed a great time over the past 128 years and we’re especially proud of building strong, enduring relationships and contributing to the success of our region during this time. At Alex Scott and Staff we understand our property market like no other. Of course you’d expect no less after more than a century, but we remain every bit as committed to the very best service as we ever have. This Summer we invite you to put your trust in our classic good service when it comes to all real estate matters in our local communities.

Melbourne (03) 8610 6578

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Wonthaggi (03) 5672 1911

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