Coast magazine summer 2018

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LO ST A N D FO U N D A family in transition

T H E FLY IN G C H IP PI E Our Ninja Warrior

K AY SE TC H E S A political life

OD GU ID E TA ST E OF SU MM ER FO TIO N VA NO RE BU ILD IN G & ID E GU AY LID HO SU MM ER

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Photos: Hannah Gilbert Photography

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KEN GRIFFITHS Frances Visits the Gallery – detail

JOHN MUTSAERS Early Morning Riser Inverloch

Oil on acrylic on canvas 101 x 152cm

Oil on Canvas 92 x 92cm

LAUREL BILLINGTON Nativity

WERNER THEINERT No 5 Brace Square – detail

Terracotta, felt & raffia 40 x 14 x 20cm

Digital Inkjet on Aluminium board 120 x 120cm

SUSAN HALL Changing Seasons Pt Smythe Inverloch

LAURIE COLLINS The Rose

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Recycled steel 15 x 10 x 5cm

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ELLEN PALMER HUBBLE Spring Storm

URSULA THEINERT Cutler’s Beach – detail

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Over and out

from the editor

The times they are a-changing … and in some unexpected ways.

Since our last edition, there have been some monumental shifts in public consciousness. With so many issues playing out in the political arena, I’m hopeful that change truly is underway.

It’s been impossible not to be affected by the response to the Harvey Weinstein scandal in Hollywood. The #metoo campaign shone a very bright light on an issue that is all too prevalent in our society. Is this heightened awareness the harbinger of change? I hope so.

Speaking of change … It was fantastic to see the majority of Australians support marriage equality. Now it’s time our politicians do the same and get the legislation passed. Meanwhile, here in Victoria, our parliament is debating the complex issue of voluntary euthanasia (or dying with dignity), another issue where the political discussion seems to be lagging a long way behind public sentiment.

As painful and difficult as some of these conversations are, I believe these are encouraging signs of a society evolving and maturing. How we deal with confronting issues and change reveals something about us all. This edition we have fascinating and at times heart-wrenching stories about life-changing transformations and lives shaped by travel, personal challenges, and political convictions.

As we head towards Christmas and the inevitable New Year’s resolutions, perhaps now is a good time to think of what you can do to make a change in the world. The small steps each of us take can be the start of a great leap forward.

Finally, I’d like to wish you all a very safe and happy holiday season. This edition is my last in the chair as Editor at Coast. It’s been a great journey and I want to thank you all for your company along the way.

Here’s to new horizons and remarkable adventures for us all in 2018.

Enjoy, Eleanor

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Chasing a musical dream

S NOMADIC ADVENTURE in a ute Around Australia

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GUIDE TASTE OF SUMMER FOOD BUILDING & RENOVATION SUMMER ATTRACTIONS

ART & CULTURE PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

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Lighting the Waterline

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DIGGING IN

Constructing the GP Circuit

RISING FROM THE RUINS Rebuilding a life

SPIRIT OF THE GAME Indigenous players soar

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR Fabulous food and wine

THE GOOD LIFE Living well

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Coast Magazine, PO Box 104, San Remo, Victoria 3925 PHONE: (03) 5956 6781, ADS : 0432 273 107 EMAIL: editorial@coastmagazine.net WEB: www.coastmagazine.net PUBLISHER: Maria Reed MANAGING EDITOR: Eleanor McKay SUB EDITOR: Anne Roussac-Hoyne WORDS: Christina Aitken,

Katie Cincotta, Kelly McCarthy, Eleanor McKay, Sally O’Neill, Maria Reed PHOTOGRAPHY: Warren Reed, 0414 753 739 DESIGN: Staffan Hakansson PRINT MANAGER: Nigel Quirk ADVERTISING: Robyn Kemp, 0432 273 107, ads@coastmagazine.net

Go to coastmagazine.net or call 5956 6781 to get your own copy delivered to your home.

A full year (4 issues) costs no more than $35 for a year, or $70 for two.

132 Whitelaw St Meeniyan VIC 3956 | Phone 5664 0055 |

like us at www.facebook.com/Lacy-Jewellery-Studio

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contents

WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS 41 Our summer guide to what’s on, what to do, things to see, places to stay …

THE FABRIC OF LIFE 74 Karin Murphy Ellis brings recycled fabric, clothes and everyday objects to life in her eclectic art.

LOST AND FOUND 22 When her husband Colin told Kylie Jones he wanted to live as a woman, her family’s world was turned upside-down.

FROM THE GROUND UP 46 The ever-humble fruit and vegetable have become artist Gillian Haig’s latest muse.

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ALL ABOUT THE HOUSE 137 For all your building, renovating and decorating needs.

people 13 16 62 93 98 201

THE FLYING CHIPPIE 32 The Australian Ninja Challenge is just one obstacle Ashlin Herbert has conquered in his lifetime.

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An overland trip to Australia was a life-changing experience for young Englishman Eric Burt, who captured the journey on film.

THE LIFE OF KAY 132 Former MP and co-founder of EMILY’s list, Kay Setches shares her insights on life in and after politics.

2 Coast People

Corey and Tom Green

Preserving her community

Paula Calafiore

Surfer Profile

Max Wells

Baking Power

Evonne Redmond

Young & Inspired

Paris Wynen

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PUTTING LIFE IN FOCUS 36

15 Minutes of Fame

Michael Jones

A Taste of Summer

Where to eat

5 Things we love about …

Sandy Point Lifestyle Review – Silverleaves

TJ’s Timber

Lifestyle Review – Cape Woolamai

Ecoliv

REGULARS 14

Coast Life

20

Latest Products

28

Events Calendar

31

Coast Events

108

Café Review – BEANd

114

What’s Cooking – Relish Mama

118

Dine Out – Manhattan in Mornington

126

The Grape Escape – wine reviews

164

Coast Style

198

Coast Directory & Stockists

199

A Good Read – Turn the Page

200

The Right Fit - YMCA

202

Where Am I?

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clothing : accessories : homewares : fabric : furniture

11 A’Beckett St, Inverloch | 15 Smith St, Warragul www.mookah.com.au coast 12

fifteen

minutes

of

fame

words as told to christina aitken photo warren reed

Michael Jones doesn’t care which came first – he loves the chickens and the eggs.

I grew up in the Bena area. I wanted to be a farmer and have a big beef farm. Dad was a baker but he got emphysema from the flour, so he started working on farms. He worked for Johnny Rowe (Normie Rowe’s uncle) who told me about these fantastic chickens called Australian Langshans. I fell in love with them. One night I went to the poultry section at the Korumburra show. Johnny Rowe spoke to Mum and Dad, and asked if it was all right to give me some little bantams.

Dad built some poultry pens and that’s how it started. I was thirteen or fourteen.

I left school and worked on a farm until my boss got very sick.

Then I got a painting apprenticeship. I liked painting but never meant to stay at it. I’ve been a painter at Wonthaggi hospital for just over 40 years.

Farming went by the wayside when I met Coral. When we got married we had a little broody hen. We got some eggs and I started breeding Australian Langshans. Our children got involved too. After showing chickens for a while, I was encouraged to go to a judging school in Cranbourne. I’m an all-breeds judge – second most-qualified judge in Victoria – and I’m also an egg judge. I hope to do Forest-and-Field next year. At the 2016 Royal Melbourne show, they pointed to the ceiling and told me, ‘the first bird you’ve got to judge is up there.’ A guinea fowl had got up in the rafters. I said, ‘I’m pretty sure it’s the most active and healthiest.’

Judging chickens has taken me around a lot of Australia.

Twenty-something years ago, we arranged long service leave so I could judge at Bega – a massive day with a thousand birds. While we were away, the fellow who was to judge the Proserpine Show had a heart attack. They knew I was travelling north and contacted Coral’s sister to find me.

I judged waterfowl, hard-feathered, soft-feathered … I had to do turkeys, geese and pigeons – great variety.

Coral and I run the poultry section of the Wonthaggi Agricultural Show in January. It’s the wrong time of the year because birds are moulting, but it creates a bit of interest in showing. I think of it as the Royal Wonthaggi Show – we are really passionate about it. Our egg section is quite competitive. You don’t have to have pure-bred poultry – you can just bring your eggs in and get boasting rights. As a judge, you’re looking for a nice-shaped egg, no polish marks, lovely lustre, even colour. When you break the egg open, you’re looking for freshness.

Since my heart attack last year, my priorities have changed. I like simple things like fishing. I’ve got my chooks up the back; I breed canaries. I love it when friends pop in – we sit and talk about all sorts of wonderful things over a cup of tea. I want to grow old and in good health with Coral. I also want to judge chickens in the Northern Territory.

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coast life

Summer nights Missing your Summer of Soul? Don’t despair: Summer Nights is here to bring back the soul to Mossvale Park. Stay tuned for more musical announcements from Lyrebird Arts Council, the team behind Summer of Soul. In the meantime, pencil in 20 January at Meeniyan Hall to catch West African legend Bassekou Kouyaté who has shared stages with everyone from Paul McCartney to Blur’s Damon Albarn. www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

Natural inspiration This year, The Goldsmith’s Gallery Annual Christmas Exhibition is a showcase of indigenous jewellery and art. Featuring indigenous artist Cassie Leatham and a dozen creative jewellers from across the country, the exhibition focuses on how we are influenced by the colours and patterns in our landscape, animals and plants. Exhibition ends 31st January 2018.

Open 10am – 5pm Monday to Friday, 10am – 2pm Saturday. www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

Family flavour Anyone familiar with our What’s Cooking page in Coast will know how fabulous the recipes from Relish Mama’s Nellie Kerrison are. We’re excited that she’s back with a new cookbook – Family – this month. Let Nellie simplify and inspire your time in the kitchen. Delicious food done smarter. www.relishmama.com.au

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A musical helping hand The hills, the beaches and the valleys around us are alive with original sounds and talented musicians. White Water Sound Co (a not-for-profit organisation) is working with local musicians and venues to help create outlets for original music. Here’s your chance to support our local musos. Check the White Water Sound Co website for details of its next showcase night. www.whitewatersoundco.org

Instant Coast and Coffee Coast Magazine is renowned for its spectacular images and coastal landscapes. Photographers Warren and Maria Reed will be showcasing the best of the coast and surrounds in the Coast Instagram Exhibition. These beautiful images would make a unique gift – so get in early and tick a few things off the Christmas list!

From 5 December 2017 to January 2018 at Coffee Collective, Wonthaggi. All enquiries photos@coastmagazine.net

Get the dirt on art The newest gallery in Foster is giving added meaning to the term local art. All the paintings are in charcoal and earth pigments sourced largely from around Yanakie and Corner Inlet. YEPGallery features noted and emerging artists from the local area. Open seven days over summer, 10am – 4pm. Find them on Facebook.

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2

two coast people

Musical theatre has created harmony between brothers Tom and Corey Green. Their unique on-stage chemistry and shared passion for singing has given them rave reviews in productions such as Pippin and Jesus Christ Superstar, and Grantville’s Serenade at Sunset.

COREY: Tom’s two years older than me and my first memory of him was when he got a plastic guitar and microphone and just couldn’t keep away from them. I think that’s when he found his love for music.

I was the crazy one, always running around. I had heaps of energy and was constantly playing sports. Tom played cricket with me but music was his thing, so I kind of stayed away from it until later on in life.

One night we had Wayne Moloney, the director of Jesus Christ Superstar, around for dinner. All of a sudden he looked at me and said: ‘You should come and audition for the show.’ I only went because Tom was also auditioning, but I was very glad that I did. I got a part and fell in love – and have stayed in love – with musical theatre ever since.

We were close as kids and usually did our own thing, but now we share the same passion which is awesome. We have always been different, but I think our relationship is stronger now.

We’re in shows together and sing at home all the time and can talk for hours about the one thing.

Music has given me a lot more confidence as a person through performing in front of people at concerts and shows. Not only that, but I’ve also had the opportunity to meet a lot of amazing people and have become a part of the community, which I feel is probably the more important gift. Music hasn’t taken me ‘anywhere’ to speak of so far, but

words as told to sally o’neill photo warren reed

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what you get out of it personally is way more rewarding than anything else.

My most memorable moment was probably my first show – it was just something else. You don’t expect it to have such a big impact on your life, but it does. You have to do it to understand the feeling.

I’m not a confident talker or reader, so doing stage work is really hard for me. But the best way to deal with it is lots of practice and learning to be patient with yourself. The greatest thing is the people I’ve met along the way, because without them I wouldn’t be who I am today, and I am very grateful.

I’m currently working in Wonthaggi trying hard to save as much as I can so that I can set off and see the world.

New York is my number-one destination because of the theatre world over there – I’ve always wanted to watch musicals on Broadway.

I’m looking forward to hopefully doing another show together one day and I’d also love to travel with Tom. If I could sum him up in one word, it would be ‘extraordinary’. We are brothers and always stick together and we share a good bond. That’s what makes us better as a pair – we understand each other.

TOM: Corey is my younger brother and, to be quite honest, I could not pinpoint my first memory of him. He’s just always been there and we’ve been mucking around together. Corey

two

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people

and I were always close: everything we did involved each other. Of course, being brothers we also fought every now and then. I’d really wanted someone in my family to sing and play music with, and when Corey started showing an interest, it gave us something new to bond over.

I’m now studying Classical Voice at Monash University in Clayton, working at Newhaven College as a vocal instructor and music teacher and running my own private studio in Wonthaggi. I also work at a dance school and am frequently auditioning for shows.

Music just sort of happened for me – I’ve never known anything different. I picked up a guitar in grade three and ever since I’ve been learning and expanding myself as a musician.

Thankfully I have family and friends who’ve supported me through my whole journey.

If I could sum Corey up in one word, it would be frustrating!

(Ha ha!) What makes us better as a pair than as individuals is chemistry. You just can’t beat a natural on-stage chemistry shared between two brothers who have a passion for what they do and a love for one another.

Since both becoming involved in theatre our relationship has grown; we’ve started performing and singing together and sharing our passion for music. Our relationship is stronger now than ever.

We’re currently in discussions about a few projects. Nothing that I can reveal just yet, but keep your eyes on the Green brothers as there is still a lot to come from us.

My biggest challenge and achievement in life so far has been gaining my Associate in Music, Australia in Classical Voice. I was rehearsing for and playing the role of Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar which completely conflicted with the style that I was learning. I had to just keep practising and keep on my toes.

Many a time I wanted to give up, but with a support team behind me led by Kirk Skinner, I finally got through the exam.

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Making it quick and easy to find free tap water.

We all know water is good for you. It’s essential for healthy living and staying hydrated and it’s crucial for sporting, mental and academic performances.

Water is the best choice – if you’re out and about and are unsure of what to drink – Choose Tap! Not only will it save you loads of money, you can get it just about anywhere, anytime.

All you need is a reusable bottle. Remember to keep a water bottle nearby – it will save you from the temptation of unhealthy sugary drinks.

The partnerships aim to: • encourage people to reuse and refill their water bottles • educate people on the ways they can contribute to a cleaner and healthier future • provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottled water

Working together for our community It’s now easier than ever for you to Choose Tap! Thanks to partnerships between Bass Coast Shire Council, South Gippsland Water, Phillip Island Nature Parks and Westernport Water, drinking water refill stations are being installed around the region, in convenient and easy to access public spaces.

Find free tap water whenever you need it Download the app to find a water refill station or fountain near you. If you see drinking water taps in your travels, add tap locations with the Choose Tap app.

Download free today.

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Did you know?

Both Westernport Water and South Gippsland Water have portable drinking water fountains and hydration station trailers available to support your next community event or festival. Simply head to www.westernportwater.com.au or www.sgwater.com.au to find out more.

Find free tap water on Phillip Island here: • Cowes Cultural Centre • Churchill Island • Erehwon Point Cowes • Cowes Skate Park • Koala Conservation Centre • Mussel Rocks Cowes • Newhaven Park • Sunderland Bay Community Park • Smiths Beach

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Further fountains and free water refill points across the Bass Coast area can be found at:

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• George Bass Park, Bass • Harold Hughes Reserve, Corinella • Grantville Transaction Centre • Inverloch Community Hub • Inverloch Rainbow Park/The Glade • Inverloch SLSC • Kilcunda Walking Trail • San Remo Lions Park • San Remo Jetty • Wonthaggi Cemetery • Wonthaggi Guide Park • Wonthaggi Skate Park

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Prom Country Cheese – Powlett Picnic $56.99 kilo.

Roza Coconut Chilli Mayonnaise and Caesar Salad Dressing $8.99.

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I got the blues Fused Glass Wall Panel. In Deep Series, priced from $475.

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Purple haze Lavender Avonview $12.95.

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Shades of Morrocco Sombrilla beach shades $169.

South Coast Furnishings

Made to scale Green Perch steel and ceramic mosaic $990.

Mosaics By The Bay – Heather Fahnle

Art of coffee Artisan wood roasted coffee $4.50.

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Golden globe 9ct yellow gold, aquamarine and diamond sphere pendant and chain. $814.

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Spice of life Penang Beef Curry $26.

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words katie cincotta photos warren reed and supplied

Lost

AND FOUND

It was on a weekend walk on the beach that Kylie Jones lost her husband.

Colin was 54 years old, the bloke with the beard and the Blundstones, the father of her three daughters, a local CFA volunteer on Phillip Island, and the man she’d built a life with over the past 28 years.

As she’s recounting this conversation in her cottage in Rhyll, Carole King is on the radio in the background, singing ‘I feel the earth move under my feet, I feel the sky tumbling down, tumbling down’.

They’d been holding hands, but for the news he was about to deliver, he let her go. “What would be the one thing I could do that would make you stop loving me?” he asked. Kylie, baffled, half-jokingly asked if he had murdered somebody. But Colin’s revelation was arguably more complicated than that, and would have lasting repercussions for their entire family.

It’s an eerie analogy for what Kylie must have felt that day on the beach, facing a man she thought she knew as he confessed a secret that had led him to live a life of charade and deception.

He told his wife that he wanted to live as a woman, that from as early as the age of four he had felt like he was a girl. “It wasn’t anything that I’d ever imagined. I didn’t know how I was supposed to react. In the beginning, I felt numb,” says Kylie.

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“Colin said his choice was to tell me what he wanted and needed to do – or walk into the ocean and never come back. If he’d done that, I would have had no idea why.”

That momentous confession was a decade ago. Colin has since become Anne, having had full gender reassignment surgery. Kylie helped him make the transition early on, buying her husband clothes, taking him to his >

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they’d done, and that she had brought her friend flowers and a necklace. I cried in the car: ‘Where were my flowers?’ I wanted to know. We never even got a thank you for all the support we’d given him as he’d transitioned. When I got home I could barely look at him, I was so angry.”

Finally when it became too hard to cope with Colin’s desire to transition quickly and his lack of concern about the impact it might have on his family, Kylie and her teenage daughters moved to Grantville. She admits she fell into a heap for a while.

Her three daughters – Rachel, Emma and Leesa – each coped in their own way.

Rachel expressed herself through her artwork and LGBTQI activism. Emma was pragmatic about her father’s transition, adamant she couldn’t change anything, refusing to get upset.

psychologist – assuming that the man she loved would still remain the same person, her best friend and partner, just with a new feminine layer. I told our girls: ‘Don’t worry; nothing’s going to change. We’re going to stay together and everything will be fine.’ I thought we’d be the grey nomads, two old broads going off together.”

But the illusion was shattered when Anne said she was interested in having a relationship with a man – that as Colin he had never enjoyed having sex with his wife of almost three decades, and had only done it out of sympathy and obligation.

Leesa, who was twelve when Colin morphed into Anne, struggled for many years, cutting ties with her father until her recent wedding. Fearing he’d take attention away from the bride, her father decided not to walk her down the aisle.

“Her dad sent her a fob-watch that had belonged to his grandfather,” says Kylie. “The girls used to play with it when they were babies, and Leesa incorporated it into her bouquet, so I guess in a way he was with her when she walked down the aisle.”

Kylie survived by writing her story, The Other Woman, which was published in 2016. It was a way of processing and healing, of helping other people caught up in the web of lies weaved by gender dysphoria – which is recognised as a disorder that makes a person feel like they’re trapped in the wrong body.

“One of the reasons I published the book was because Caitlyn Jenner was in the news at the time, but no-one was showing or talking about the impact on the (Kardashian) family. Who’d have thought we’d have something in common with the Kardashians.”

… he confessed a secret that had led him to live a life of charade and deception.

The reality, as the four women tried to adjust to the arrival of a fifth female in the household, was very different. ‘The other woman’ was a new entity for them all. “When Anne ventured onto the scene Colin effectively disappeared. You’ll often hear transgender people say, ‘I’m still the same person’, but Anne was a completely different individual to their dad and to my husband.”

The making of Anne involved the wearing of denim skirts and gold sandals and the painting of toenails. “In Anne’s rush to be a woman, she effectively became a caricature. She started to grow her hair and stopped biting her nails. She grew them long and they were beautiful – pissed me off something shocking … she had better nails than I did,” says Kylie.

Locals began to notice the physical changes. “There were murmurings about his long hair – we shrugged them off in the beginning, but after we had told the girls what was happening, all bets seemed to be off. He was happy to be seen dressed as a woman.”

Almost a year into Colin’s metamorphosis, Kylie moved out of their bedroom, and began to wonder at the self-absorption of the woman who had taken her husband’s place. “Anne had a friend from Warburton come to stay for a couple of days, and they were having a wonderful time – a girlie weekend. Anne rang me on my way home from work to tell me all the things

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At the time of Anne’s gender reassignment surgery, Kylie visited her in hospital, likening it to ‘visiting a maiden aunt’. Something you do out of obligation. She’s had little contact since, except to talk about what’s happening with her children.

She knows Anne lives in country Victoria with another transgender friend, that she’s reluctant to talk about her past as a man, and that she’s uncomfortable with her children continuing to call her ‘Dad’. “We learned how much she loathed Colin. In her view, he doesn’t exist anymore. I expect that because he had been in that wrong body for so long, he hated that person. But when you do that, you effectively discard everything that happened around that person – and that bit I don’t get.”

Even after ten years, Kylie is still mourning the loss of her husband. “I find myself thinking about Colin every day,” she admits. She thinks the only way to address that is to meet up with Anne to confirm that the man she loved no longer exists – that he did in fact die that day on the beach. A man lost, a woman found, a family picture shattered into fragments that no longer fit together.

She’s used dating apps to have a few flings, but seems reluctant to try again. “Every now and again I punish myself again and go back. I’ve probably been on all the apps, but I try to avoid the ones you have to pay for. It’s one thing to >

Photographed at Silverwater Resort.

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Even after ten years, Kylie is still mourning the loss of her husband.

be rejected, but it’s another to have to pay for the privilege,” she jokes. “I tend to gravitate towards blokes that are tall and beefy, people who look like they could enjoy life. My girls keep telling me I’m looking for Colin.”

person that you love just disappearing. Even with a sudden, unexpected death you can make provisions … you have a funeral and you get to acknowledge who the person was and say goodbye, but we didn’t quite get to do that.”

While Anne has pressed fast-forward on a new life, it seems Kylie is still hovering in pause mode, trying to pick up the pieces after what she calls ‘the vanishing’ of her man. All she has left of him are a few photos, including a black and white wedding picture, and a few happy snaps of them when the kids were little.

Kylie hopes that children and families can now identify gender dysphoria at a young age to prevent the kind of collateral damage her family has suffered.

She is beginning to accept that perhaps Colin was never real. “I think he’d invented this person. He’d been building on this character for 40- odd years – this larger-than-life bloke that nobody messed with, the shell that protected what he was inside.”

There are tough questions for her ex-husband that still remain unanswered. “At what point did you decide this was the persona you had to create, and why did you create it with me?”

She’d also like to ask if Anne recognises the impact her transition has had on their family. And why she chose to wait almost 30 years to reveal her true self. “There’s nothing like the

coast 26

At 58, she’s looking at the other side of her life, keen to write another book, this time about how ordinary people cope with extraordinary circumstances.

She’s not completely giving up on love, willing herself forward with a sharp sense of humour. “I’ll get there eventually. Some poor bugger will decide I’m God’s gift … and then who knows? But in all these dating profiles where guys say they like ‘long walks on the beach’ – nope, not doing that.”

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summer 2018

events guide

Gooseneck Pottery – Kiln opening & Christmas Exhibition 9 – 10 December 60 Kardella Rd, Kardella www.gooseneckpottery.com.au Bonsai Workshop 10 December & 14 January, 10am Grace Landscapes 8 Vista Place, Cape Woolamai Contact: Nela 0434 423 339 or Heath 0404 596 504 www.heathgracelandscapes.com Christmas in the Park 10 December, 5pm Grantville Park, Cnr Pier Rd & Bass Hwy

DECEMBER Footprints – Russell & Carol Monson Until 30 December Red Tree Gallery & Sculpture Park 420 Main Jindivick Rd, Jindivick Contact: Laurie Collins 5628 5224 www.lauriecollins.com.au Indigenous Jewellery & Art Exhibition Until 31 January Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm, Sat 10am – 2pm The Goldsmith’s Gallery Marine Pde San Remo www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au Sculpture @ Lucinda 1 December – 28 January Lucinda Estate Winery 108 Parr St Leongatha www.lucindaestate.com.au Coast Instagram Exhibition From 5 December The Coffee Collective McBride Ave, Wonthaggi www.coastmagazine.net Summer Show: Robyn Rankin, William Linford, Jennifer Taranto 7 December – 2 January Without Pier Gallery 320 Bay Rd, Cheltenham www.withoutpier.com.au Christmas Race Day – Mornington 8 and 13 December Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Rhyll Twilight Market 8 December, 4pm – 9pm Rhyll Foreshore Contact: 0418 325 055 Imagine – Five centuries of art From 9 December Gippsland Art Gallery 68–70 Foster St, Sale Contact: 5142 3100 www.wellington.vic.gov.au Summertime Smallworks Exhibition From 9 December Mingara Gallery 242 Thompson Ave, Cowes Contact: 5952 3722 www.mingaragallery.com.au

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Open Art Exhibition – Gippsland Artists 12 December – 15 January ArtSpace Wonthaggi, 1 Bent St Contact: 5672 5767 www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au Inverloch Community Carols 15 December, 7pm The Glade, Inverloch Contact: John Searle 0423 709 295 San Remo celebrates Christmas 15 December, 5pm The Foreshore, San Remo Contact: Robyn Edmonds 0409 577 231 Living Art Workshop 17 December & 21 January, 10am Grace Landscapes 8 Vista Place, Cape Woolamai Contact: Nela 0434 423 339 or Heath 0404 596 504 www.heathgracelandscapes.com Wonthaggi Community Carols 17 December, 6pm Apex Park, Murray St Contact: John Searle 0423 709 295 Cowes Community Christmas Celebrations (incorporating Carols by the Bay) 19 December, 5pm – 9.30pm The Esplanade, near Erehwon Pt Contact: Rev Ian Turnnidge 5952 2083 Fireworks Cruises 19 & 31 December, 8.15pm Departing from Rhyll Jetty www.wildlifecoastcruises Mornington Race Day 27 December Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Inverloch Sounds of Summer 29 December, gates open 1.45pm Inverloch Recreation Reserve Sandymount Ave, Inverloch www.inverlochsoundsofsummer.com.au Push Bike Ride Day 29 December, 5.30pm – 7.30pm Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Back Beach Rd www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au

JANUARY Annette Spinks – Open Studio, Ocean Inspired Abstracts 1 – 31 January 60 Dixon St, Inverloch www.annettespinks.com.au Artfusion Exhibits 1 – 30 January Inverloch Community Centre 16 A’Beckett St Contact: Andrew Kasper 0407 368 538 www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com New Years Race Day (Incl Clip Clop Day) 1 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Walk the Nature Parks – Rhyll Discovery Walk 2 January, 10am – 12noon Meet at Conservation Hill carpark Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Koala Prowl – Phillip Island Nature Parks Free holiday program – please book 2, 10, 19, 24 January, 9.00pm – 10pm Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Bubbles not balloons – Phillip Island Nature Parks Free summer holiday activities program 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 January 6.30pm – 8.30pm Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Push Bike Ride Days 2, 4, 9, 11 January, 5.30pm – 7.30pm Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Back Beach Rd www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au Marine Madness – Phillip Island Nature Parks Free summer holiday activities program 3 and 17 January, 10.30am – 12pm Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Twilight Craft Market Australia 4 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Bugs, Bandicoots & Digs – Phillip Island Nature Parks Free holiday program – please book 4, 9, 15, 22 January, 10.30am – 11.30am Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au After Dark Wildlife Walk 4, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16 January 8.30pm – 10.30pm, The Briars 450 Nepean Highway, Mt Martha Contact: 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/ The-Briars

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summer 2018

events guide JANUARY Junior Ranger Program – Nature’s Treasure Hunt 5, 8, 10, 12, 16, 17 January 9.30am – 12pm, The Briars 450 Nepean Highway, Mt Martha Contact: 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/ The-Briars Seadays Festival 6 – 7 January, 9am – 2pm Old Ferry Terminal, Lewis St, Port Welshpool www.seadaysfestival.com.au

Sunset Cinema – Despicable Me 12 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Walk the Nature Parks – Oswin Roberts 12 January, 10am – 12pm Oswin Roberts Reserve, Harbison Rd Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Phillip Island Model Railway Exhibition 13 January, 10am – 5pm 14 January, 10am – 4pm Cowes Cultural Centre 91 – 97 Thompson Ave Contact: Peter Foden 0419 005 479 Summer Exhibition Coolart 13 – 28 January Coolart Homestead Lord Somers Rd, Somers Contact: Terry Earle 0419 541 892 www.withoutpier.com.au Craft Markets Australia 14 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com Sipapu – Meg Viney Exhibition 16 January – 19 February ArtSpace Wonthaggi, 1 Bent St Contact: 5672 5767 www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au

Island Markers Market 7 January, 9am – 2pm Cowes Football Reserve, Church St www.mermaidsorority.com.au

Walk the Nature Parks – S.S. Speke 16 January, 10am – 12pm Meet at Kitty Miller Bay carpark Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au

Mornington Summer Race Day 7 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com

Walk the Nature Parks – Pinnacles Walk 23 January, 10am – 12pm Meet at Woolamai Beach carpark Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au

Tide Stories – Heather Fahnle & Meg McCarthy 7 January – 4 February The Meeniyan Gallery, 84 Whitelaw St www.meeniyanartgallery.com.au

Food Truck Carnival 25 – 28 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com

Rockpool Ramble – Phillip Island Nature Parks. Free holiday program – please book 8 and 24 January, 10.30am – 11.30am Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au

Australia Day Races 26 January Mornington Racecourse 320 Racecourse Rd www.mrc.racing.com

Shearwater Sunset – Phillip Island Nature Parks. Free holiday program – please book 8 and 22 January, 8.00pm – 9.30pm Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au Briar’s Bush Fairies 9 and 18 January, 9am and 10.30am The Briars 450 Nepean Highway, Mt Marth Contact: 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/ The-Briars Recycled Art Workshop – Phillip Island Nature Parks, Free holiday program – please book 10 and 25 January, 10am – 12pm Contact: 5951 2826 www.penguins.org.au

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International Island Classic 26 – 28 January Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Back Beach Rd www.islandclassic.com.au Sunday Sessions at The Briars 28 January 450 Nepean Highway, Mt Martha Contact: 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/ The-Briars

FEBRUARY Mirboo North Italian Festa 11 February, 10.30am Baromi Park, 49 Ridgeway St www.italianfesta.net Meeniyan Garlic Festival 17 February, 9am – 4pm Meeniyan Rec Reserve www.meeniyangarlicfestival.com

French Painting Tour 11 – 25 February Without Pier Gallery 320 Bay Rd, Cheltenham Contact: Terry Earle 0419 541 892 www.withoutpier.com.au The Wonthaggi Monster – Filippa Buttitta Visual narrative of the Thylacine in Wonthaggi 20 February – 26 March ArtSpace Wonthaggi, 1 Bent St Contact: 5672 5767 www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au FIM Superbike World Championship 23 – 25 February Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Back Beach Rd www.worldsbk.com.au Music for the People Featuring the Royal Australian Navy Band 25 February, 11am, Mossvale Park Strzelecki Hwy, Berrys Creek www.facebook.com/MftP2018/ Sunday Sessions at The Briars 25 February 450 Nepean Highway, Mt Martha Contact: 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/ The-Briars

REGULARS Cowes Craft Market Second Saturday every month 9am – 2pm St Phillips Parish Hall Contact: 0412 710 276 Inverloch parkrun 7.45pm – every Saturday Rotary Centenary Shelter, Ramsay Blvd Contact: Tony O’Connell 0438 744 886 Register at www.parkrun.com.au/ inverloch Kongwak Market Every Sunday, 10am – 3pm (Closed Sunday 24th December) Kongwak General Store and shed Contact: Jane 0417 142 478 Koonwarra parkrun 7.45pm – every Saturday Swan Rd, Koonwarra Register at www.parkrun.com.au/ koonwarra Market on Main 29 December, every Wednesday in January 3pm – 9pm Cowes Culture Centre, Thompson Ave Contact: Darlene 0428 603 043 Phillip Island parkrun 7.45pm – every Saturday Churchill Island, Visitors Centre Register at www.parkrun.com.au/ phillipisland Purple Hen Winery – Live Music Ever Friday in January, 6pm - 8pm 96 McFees Rd, Rhyll Contact: 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

is S ummer

summer 2018

Ou r

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events guide c k o e ve nt f

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Womadelaide

This iconic festival has another stellar line-up planned for 2018. The first round of announcements include dub visionary and legendary UK producer Adrian Sherwood, India’s Grammy-nominated composer Anoushka Shankar, Brazil’s afrobeats sensations Bixiga 70 and Australia’s own Dan Sultan. Celebrating the news that Adelaide has secured the Womad rights through until 2024, the festival announced that 2018 will feature two landmark productions – the extraordinary French aerial spectacular Gratte Ciel’s Place des Anges and a musical masterpiece from India, The Manganiyar Seduction.

9 – 12 March, 2018, Botanic Park, Adelaide www.womadelaide.com.au

Rhyll Wooden Boat Festival Rhyll had the first boat building industry in Victoria, so it’s perfectly placed to showcase some maritime history as part of the celebrations for Phillip Island’s 150th anniversary. The festival includes street markets, classic boats and cars, yacht racing, art show and model boats, plus a junior art competition and boat building display, children’s entertainment and live bands. The tall ships will be visiting and two classic ferries will be running trips around the bay.

2 – 4 March 2018, Beach Road, Rhyll Rhyllwoodenboats.weebly.com

Kilcunda Lobster Festival This quirky community festival has been running for over 30 years and the fun never diminishes. Bring the whole family to enjoy carnival rides, amusements, an animal nursery and market stalls … and of course, the legendary lobster spinning wheel. Live bands play throughout the day, with loads of options for food and drink (including a lobster lunch), all set against a backdrop of the incredible Kilcunda foreshore.

28 January 2018, Kilcunda foreshore carpark www.kcda.weebly.com/lobster-festival

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words katie cincotta photos warren reed

THE

Flying Chippie He’s a 22-year-old carpenter from the Mornington Peninsula, but there’s nothing average about this bloke from McCrae.

For starters, he’s got a very impressive mop of curly blonde hair – enough to do 80s aerobics star Richard Simmons proud.

He’s dressed in soft retro pastels – baby blue and sorbet pink – a hipster-cross-surfie at first glance. But look a little closer at his physique – sinewy muscles bulging around his neck and forearms, giant wood-roughed hands – and you begin to see the strong, dexterous athlete that dwells within.

Ashlin Herbert was one of the dark horses on the Australian Ninja Warrior TV series, which pitted the country’s fittest against each other across one of the world’s most notoriously difficult obstacle courses.

In a test of will and strength, contestants run, jump, crawl, climb, hang, and swing through crazy obstacles in what began as a televised sports competition in Japan known as ‘Sasuke’. Since its debut in 1997, the cult show has been aired in 157 countries.

After Ashlin heard about the show from a mate who raved about the American version, he decided to apply and see what all the hype was about. As a trained gymnast, the

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chippie thought he’d have a pretty good shot at getting a decent run. “We do a lot of stupid things at gymnastics, so I thought I’d probably be good at that sort of stuff.”

The first step was making it through the initial audition, which was a gruelling fitness test.

“It started with a five-minute plank, which I survived. Then came rotating chin-ups and push-ups, and a five-minute ‘dead hang’ where you’re just hanging on the bar … never done it before. I couldn’t complete them all but I went until I fatigued.”

Ashlin got through, but his mate Troy, who’s also a gymnast, didn’t. “He hasn’t trained in a long time, but he’s started again now,” he laughs.

Among a hoard of confident, ripped gym-junkies, Ashlin Herbert was an eccentric underdog – softly spoken, chillaxed, wearing a headband and a bright singlet top and shorts he picked up at Kmart. “The experience was so awesome, really good fun. No practice runs though. You just had to do it live.”

He admits he hated the cameras, but he didn’t notice them throughout the actual course. “But they were in your face asking questions afterwards. After the wall run I had heaps of adrenalin though, so I was all right in front of the camera.”

Of all the obstacles, Ashlin pegged the rolling log as the hardest. “You’re trying to figure out how to do it and you don’t have much time.”

For many of the contestants scaling the vertical wall was their undoing, but as one of the shorter blokes, at five feet

eleven inches, the big-haired wonder boy made it look easy.

“At gymnastics we’d always run up the wall and see how high we could get. So I could do it first go.”

Ashlin, who went in with no expectations, just a desire to have fun, managed to clock the fastest time in the semifinals. Even the hosts seemed shocked by the lighting oneminute one-second performance from the happy-go-lucky carpenter: “Out of nowhere, Ashlin Herbert blows the field away.” >

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Ashlin says many of the Ninja Warrior contestants were professional fitness and nutrition fanatics. They were discussing protein supplements while the millennial from the Mornington Peninsula was mingling over a few beers – which makes the fact that he was one of only nine Australians to make the Grand Final’s toughest obstacle, Mt Midoriyama, even more impressive.

After a wobbly start on the ropes, he made it all the way through to the salmon run – a footless ladder climb that mimics salmon leaping over gates in a commercial hatchery – until the buzzer timed him out. “I think I grabbed too high on the rope so I got stuck. I’d never done the salmon run before. When I was watching the video afterwards I could see my mistakes … it’s all about timing. Now I’m doing it with a 20kg weight vest at The Compound (an outdoor training course near Mornington).”

Only three Australians came close to conquering the course, putting the quiet tradie among the country’s athletic elite.

The family went on to build their own house in McCrae and own other restaurants until a cancer diagnosis tore through the middle of their coastal dreams. Ashlin was seven when his father died, and is sure that taekwondo and gymnastics helped him cope with the grief. “It was a little community – so it was very social and it definitely helped me.”

The shock death made him more resilient and independent than most kids, and instilled in him a desire to challenge his body. He can’t think of anything better than roughing it out bush, hitting the ski slopes or mastering running flips. “I love the outdoors, camping, four-wheel driving … getting the ute nice and dirty.”

Ashlin was seven when his father died, and is sure that taekwondo and gymnastics helped him cope with the grief.

How he came to develop those incredible skills begins with a childhood marred by tragedy. Ashlin’s parents were chefs at Dalkeith, a bed-and-breakfast at one of the first homesteads to be built in Mount Martha. “I was born there and we lived there until I was three. Grandma and Grandpa lived with us too. As chefs, Mum and Dad were in the kitchen a lot so Grandpa would babysit me. I remember us watching Thomas The Tank Engine together.”

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As for rumours of a romance with fellow Ninja contestant Olivia Vivian, Ashlin says they’re just mates. “Nah, nothing happened. She’s funny. She’s a good friend. They said she was being flirty on Instagram but they misinterpreted it. I’m heading over to WA to do a comp and she’ll be over there with the rest of the WA crew.”

But it seems he’s not exactly single either. He’s now dating a woman he struck up a conversation with on social media. Did his recent TV fame get him the hook-up? “Yeah, probably. She messaged me and said I did really well on the show. She’s now training at The Compound.”

Landed Top Three Ninja Warrior status and a girlfriend.

Nailing it, buddy. (Sorry, had to get a chippie joke in there somewhere).

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words christina aitken photos eric burt & warren reed

life in focus PUTTING

As the 1960s came to a close, an overland trip to Australia proved to be a life-changing experience for two young Englishmen.

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In the summer of 1969, Eric Burt and his friend John Banner decided to drive from England to Australia. They traded their jobs with the photographic department of the English General Electric Company in Wembley for the well-trodden Hippie Trail, popular in the 60s and 70s. Thirsty for adventure, Eric and John drew their inspiration for the overland trip from the inaugural London to Sydney Marathon, a car rally planned in 1967 and held the following year.

“We’d done a bit of amateur rallying and thought this would be a great idea,” says Eric. It soon became obvious that the globe-spanning car rally was an event for cashed-up

professionals, but the seed was sown: Eric and John decided to follow a similar route.

“At the time, it wasn’t that unusual for people to drive from England through Europe, ending up in India, and getting on a boat and shipping across to Australia. Mind you, it was a bit more uncomfortable to fly out to Australia fifty years ago,” Eric laughs.

The friends bought an old van, an Austin LD series that had belonged to a potato merchant. A year later they’d raised the roof, resprayed the van and fitted it out as a caravan. >

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When Eric gave up his job – he was 26 years old – his family didn’t believe he’d finish the trip. “They thought we’d set off, have a nice European holiday, and come back three or four months later.” Armed with maps, visas and rolls of camera film, the pair crossed the English Channel to France on 21 August 1969.

The European leg of the journey was relatively uneventful, aside from a near-miss in Yugoslavia.

They were travelling down a deserted mountain road with no seatbelts and the sliding door open because of the heat. “There was an incredible crack … we thought something had happened to the vehicle so we pulled up.” They found a bullet hole in the side of the van just two feet from the driver’s seat. “We jumped back in and roared off. Whether that was someone taking a pot-shot or a stray shot, we’ll never know.”

Although it was nearly fifty years ago, Eric recalls his time in Afghanistan vividly. “It was so unlike anything we had experienced. Every day there was something we’d never seen before, that we’d never likely see again.” Such as a memorable abattoir visit in Herat. “They slaughter the goats by cutting their throats, and they bleed into a pit. To remove the skins, they make a nick in the hoof and blow it up like a balloon, separating the skin from the animal.” Eric meticulously documented the men with their distended goats in a series of powerful photographs.

The valley was home to the Buddhas of Bamiyan — large, imposing statues hewn from sandstone in the fourth and fifth centuries.

When they crossed the border into Afghanistan on 25 September 1969, they were told that the date was the 3rd of Milan, 1348. Little more than a month had passed since they’d left England, but the familiarity of Western Europe was far behind them. For Eric, this was where the adventure truly began. “It was a very small window in the history of Afghanistan,” he says, wonder at his long-ago opportunity still evident in his voice.

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A portraiture enthusiast, he relished the opportunity to shoot the colourful Afghan game known as bushkasi. “It’s a game played on horseback, but instead of a ball they use a dead, beheaded goat. The idea is to scoop up the goat and ride hell-for-leather to drop it at the other end of the field,” he explains. After each goal they use a new carcass. Eric’s photos capture the intensity of the sport – a melee of horses with bared teeth pressed up against each other, their riders armed, focused, and intent on winning. “The rules are minimal – your opponents can whip you and your horse … there are no holds barred.” The games draw people from across the region. “You’d never have a point of contact with these people normally,” says Eric. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine this gentlyspoken man in the midst of such bloodthirsty action.

Eric describes the six weeks travelling through the Bamiyan Valley as particularly special. The valley was home to the Buddhas of Bamiyan – large, imposing statues hewn from sandstone in the fourth and fifth centuries. “They were in the news several years ago because they were blown up by the Taliban,” he says with regret.

On their way out of Afghanistan, Eric and John drove through the infamous Khyber Pass. “We’d heard all the stories about how there were bandits in the Pass and how they used you for target practice.” The travellers arrived near dusk and were not allowed to make the crossing, as it was particularly dangerous at night. “You could hear gunfire starting up – there was plenty of bandit action,” Eric laughs. “We were at that age where we just got caught up in the excitement.”

Wherever they went in their travels, for the most part Eric found the locals to be very friendly. Although it was hard at times: even parking the van in India would attract a crowd of people. “The word would get around that you were there … you were the local entertainment.” Despite speaking only English, they didn’t have trouble making themselves understood. “There was a lot of gesturing, but in most of those countries, people were keen to practise their English.”

A portraiture enthusiast, he relished the opportunity to shoot the colourful Afghan game known as bushkasi.

Aside from a trip to a Kathmandu hospital with a bout of dysentery, Eric and John enjoyed good health throughout the trip and remain friends to this day. “We were obviously very well suited,” Eric reflects. “We’d worked and socialised together in England: we survived.”

After travelling through South Asia, Singapore and Malaya, the pair finally made it to Perth with six months’ worth of film to develop. “The film survived the heat, humidity and all the rest of it. My only regret is that we didn’t shoot a lot more,” Eric laughs. He later compiled photographs from his time in Afghanistan into a book and plans to do the same with his photographic collection from India and Nepal.

Short on cash, Eric and John contacted the Australians they’d met along the way and found farm work. They’d planned to work for a couple of years to build up enough funds to tour Australia and ship across to America before returning home, but the universe had other plans. John married an Australian girl he’d met on the trip, and Eric moved to Melbourne, where he met his wife Mary Lou, and began working for the ABC in television production. He remained there for 38 years.

Over the years, Eric’s family visited Phillip Island many times and now own a holiday home in Rhyll. It’s a far cry from dodging bullets on the Khyber Pass, but with his involvement in several local groups, Eric finds plenty on the Island to keep him occupied. “My adventurous days are over,” he says, smiling.

“Things are pretty quiet now.”

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Home of Pannys Amazing World of Chocolate, a unique, interactive and educational celebration of all things chocolate. ° Daily hot curry lunch from 12 – 3pm ° Hot Chocolate made with real chocolate ° Choc dipped frozen bananas

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

WHAT WE DO ON OUR

Holidays There’s so much to see and do over summer. Explore some of our favourite attractions, find out where to get active and where you can relax and pamper yourself. From places to stay to things to do, whether you’re interested in galleries, games, surf or sport we’ve got you covered.

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Ocean Inspiration.

I am so fortunate that I get to see the everchanging ocean every day. One day it’s beautiful and enticing, the next fierce and angry. I love the changing colours, tides and swells.

The coast is such an inspirational place, full of diversity and natural beauty.

My paintings explore the moods and energy of the ocean. Each piece is created with true feeling and meaning, drawing on my own life experiences and emotions.

60 Dixon Street Inverloch.

Enquiries and Commissions 0418 555 222 | Online Gallery | www.annettespinks.com.au

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Magic, Fun AND ADVENTURE

Looking for a fun and magical way to spend your day?

Then A Maze’N Things is the ideal destination, and there are plenty of happy customers willing to vouch for that.

From the street, you can’t help but be intrigued by A Maze’N Things’ giant Flying Tap and Flooded House. But it’s what happens inside that is really incredible – illusions, puzzles, mazes, a magic theatre, movie studio, an enormous backwards clock, a shrinking room, a giant vertical slide, and mirror maze. Adults and children alike will find plenty to enjoy: “… a fantastic, interesting, educational and just fun experience, especially for children or old people like me who are young at heart.” (Michael O, Trip Advisor) Magic Manor, which opened just over twelve months ago, is A Maze’N Things most exciting innovation yet. It’s an amazing interactive experience, with magic displays, astounding illusions, mysterious caves, magic rabbits, a time machine, scare rooms, treasures and flying chandeliers. Visitors have flocked to experience this unique attraction. “It was (a) Disney Quality attraction,” raved Happyhiuse1 on Trip Advisor. “I won’t say too much because I don’t want to give away the secrets but it was fabulous! Lots of tricks and surprises, it was terrific.”

Over the January school holidays, visiting magicians will be performing live magic shows at the Manor. Shows can be done separately or as part of an admissions package.

If you are feeling daring, look no further than SkyTrail – a 10-metre high adventure ropes course set on a zig zagging series of giant poles and platforms. It gives the very adventurous an exciting new activity, while those who are a little more reserved can challenge their fears and get a healthy shot of adrenaline in complete safety.

“Loved it. An absolutely brilliant experience. A must do if you’re going to Phillip Island.” (Melissa O, Trip Advisor)

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A Maze’N Things is open 7 days a week from 10am. SkyTrail is open from 11am on weekends and everyday over Victorian School Holidays. Grab a sneak peak of all the attractions by visiting www.amazenthings.com.au.

Mention Coast Magazine to receive a 10% discount on any admission ticket.

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words maria reed photos warren reed

artist profile

From the ground up Gillian Haig gets more than a few odd glances when she visits her local greengrocers. Taking time to carefully study the produce, she discovers inspiration and creativity in the commonplace. It’s an obsession where the ever-humble fruit and vegetable have become her latest muse.

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Leading me through her kitchen, she says, “See that celeriac?

Look at those roots! No one ever sees that amazing root system hidden under the ground. It’s sort of monstrous in a way – it looks like there’s a whole world going on in there,” she marvels. Translated onto canvas the vegetable becomes immortalised in a study of colour, line and detail. “Painting helps me discover shades and textures you normally wouldn’t notice, so I hope this gives the viewer a whole new perspective.” Her kitchen, rather than her studio, has become her workspace, where her subjects are pulled from the fridge, studied, analysed and captured for eternity.

One the artist’s earliest memories is of sitting at the kitchen table with butcher’s paper and poster paints in Bakelite pallets.

“My mum would draw a house, a piece of fruit or a truck, and we’d sit there for hours and paint.”

She was only three at the time, and kindergarten had not made its way to their small farm in East Gippsland, so their mum became creative director. Reminiscing, she says, “It was a lovely way to start painting. It was really simple, but beautiful. It’s my feel-good memory.” Growing up in a creative household definitely influenced the budding artist. “Mum could sew, knit and do almost anything. She was a pianist, and we’d stand around >

She loves expressionism for its emotion.“It’s straight from the heart.”

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“Vegetables are incredibly beautiful objects that we just take for granted and gobble up, often without even thinking about them.” the piano for hours singing.” Her grandfather was also a talented drawer. Pointing to a beautiful still-life on her wall, she says, “I found this lovely piece of his in the shed. It was in pretty poor condition so I cleaned it up and reframed it – and it’s just extraordinary.” A study of a hare, fowl and quail, it’s reminiscent of Rembrandt in its use of directional light and depth. “He would’ve shot the animals and used them as a stilllife study.” He also loved to paint horses, and drew inspiration from his life. “I didn’t really know he had this artistic talent, as he stopped very early. He was a farmer and I guess that life didn’t allow time for painting. All I really remember as a child were his shaky hands. I know he was very proud of the fact that I could draw, and he gave me his set of charcoals in a box he’d made. I’ve used them a bit, and now I’ve handed them down to my nephew who is living out on the farm and has definite artistic talent. I think creativity runs in our genes.”

Different times in life inspire new things, and she’s just become a grandmother. Flying to LA to look after her daughter and new grandchild, she says, “Georgina is an actress and a painter. We often paint together – almost as a

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form of therapy,” she laughs. Memories of her childhood in Red Hill inspired her daughter to grow her own vegies. In a small shared backyard there are pots and boxes sprouting everywhere. “One day she pulled some unusual carrots out of the ground, lined them up and said ‘Here, paint these!’”

Gill enjoyed the process of painting them so much that the experience planted the seed for her current exhibition.

“Vegetables are incredibly beautiful objects that we just take for granted and gobble up, often without even thinking about them. When you focus on an object you see it at the height of its beauty. As I paint I keep finding metaphors for life, which is very exciting.” And she’s discovering a whole new world of vegetables … “Who knew golden beets existed?”

Fruit and vegetables haven’t always been on the menu for this accomplished artist, however. Majoring in fine art at RMIT, her third-year paintings were quite abstract. “I remember my mother saying, ‘What have they done to you at RMIT? They’ve ruined you!’ Up until then I’d been a realist painter, but I’m now torn between abstract, realist and expressionist styles.”

She loves expressionism for its emotion. “It’s straight from >

• Sorrento • Flinders • Mt Eliza • Mornington • Malvern • Asia

Art, Transforming Spaces

SUMMER EXHIBITIONS Throughout summer, art lovers can view over 500 Australian contemporary paintings and sculptures across five Manyung Galleries located throughout the Mornington Peninsula. Each gallery has an individual personality and presents a broad range of distinctive Australian artworks .

All visitors are warmly welcomed. As one of the longest operating commercial galleries in Australia , Manyung has been proudly supporting Australian artists since 1968.

Services include: hanging and installation, facilitating special commissions, framing, general art consultancy, advice and international freight.

The new Flinders gallery specialises in sculpture with over 50 sculptures on show at any time.

Manyung Gallery Group Sorrento: 113A and Suite 6,119 Ocean Beach Road , Sorrento Flinders: 37 Cook Street, Flinders Mount Eliza: 60 Mt Eliza Way, Mount Eliza Mornington: (by appointment) Unit 7, 35 Progress Street, Mornington Malvern: 6 -10 Claremont Avenue, Malvern (by appointment in January) View 150 artists and over 2000 artworks on-line www.manyunggallery.com.au For preview or purchase enquiries please call [all galleries] on 03 9787 2953 or email staff@manyunggallery.com.au

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Growing up in a creative household definitely influenced the budding artist.

the heart. You can make very free and expressive gestures that can result in a really dynamic artwork.” She describes realism as a more intellectual process. “There’s a clarity and a quietness there that I just love.”

After completing her degree she was invited to do postgraduate study in Fine Art and won a travelling scholarship to Europe. It was an eye-opening adventure for the young artist. “I went to view all the major galleries in Europe, and lost all my deutschmarks in Lisbon. Those were the days when you had to cable home for money,” she laughs. On her return she completed a Diploma of Education, but teaching was never her passion. “I remained true to my first love – for art – and painted throughout my twenties, exhibiting in group shows and working hard to secure my profession as an artist.”

She spent countless hours hidden away in a studio in West Melbourne, dedicating herself to her art. “I remember working away in the studio on Ash Wednesday. I looked out the window at the impending black cloud of smoke and thought, ‘I could die here and no-one would know’. Soon babies came along. “I never taught full-time – I don’t think I was destined to be a teacher.” She saw many of her contemporaries go into teaching, “and they never painted again.” Part of her freethinking, rebellious teenage self said, “’No, Gill; you are going to paint!’ I chose the hard road, and it has been incredibly confronting throughout my life.”

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She reflects: “My family was very supportive of my art.

I don’t know why, but they just let me go for it, which was quite extraordinary for the time.” Her siblings thought her fortunate to have such a talent. “But it’s what you do with it that’s important– your passion and your will to keep doing it no matter what.” As a female artist, she says, “Forever you are under the critical eye of yourself and others – we judge ourselves so harshly. I’ve had people say that certain pieces of mine look a bit like a Mirka Mora, or an Arthur Boyd.

I’m so mindful of that: while you may be inspired by others, you have to keep evolving in your own style. When you’re painting you’re also aware of your audience. An exhibition is a little bit of a performance. You’re conveying your vision and communicating to an audience … and hopefully that will change their perception of the world.”

Gillian Haig’s current exhibition is at Manyung Mt Eliza until 6 December. Her work can also be seen at the new Manyung Gallery in Flinders in January.

Manyung Gallery Group: (03) 9787 2953 60 Mount Eliza Way, Mt Eliza, 1/37 Cook St, Flinders manyunggallery.com.au

Unique, bespoke, creative,

Australian made

Jewellery & Art

www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

Featuring Indigenous Artist Cassie Leatham & 12 Creative Jewellers from around Australia.

This exhibition is about how we are influenced by what we see – the nature of our landscape, the colours, the patterns, the indigenous flora and fauna around us.

Seen through an indigenous artist’s eyes and of those that aren’t.

Bubbles & Beers – Meet the Artists Official opening 1pm – Saturday 25th November 2017 Exhibition ends 31st January 2018 Gallery Hours: Mon to Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–2pm Closed all Public Holidays and Sundays.

Handmade, Well made, Australian made.

R EGU LAR CLAS S E S & E X H IBI TIONS TM

INDIGENOUS JEWELLERY & ART EXCHANGE

TM

SH O P 3 – BRIDG EVIEW ARCADE SAN REMO. PH O NE : 5678 5 7 8 8

Handmade, wood fired stoneware and porcelain.

Visitors are welcome to inspect the kiln and studio and to purchase pieces from the recent firing.

Open 10:30am–5pm weekends, public holidays & most weekdays (phone first weekdays). Cottage rental available.

Phone for weekend opening times during February.

60 Kardella–Fairbank Rd, Kardella (via Korumburra)

Ph. (03) 5655 2405, 0403 023 761. E. gooseneckpottery@dcsi.net.au Robert Barron

www.gooseneckpottery.com.au

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Community Heart

Since opening its doors in 2016, The Wonthaggi Market has created its own niche in the community.

Antoinette Russo set up The Wonthaggi Market to provide a showcase for local arts and crafts, and create a space for true community collaboration.

With an eclectic range of vintage, retro, upcycled and handmade goods, plus a designated space that community groups can book for workshops and gatherings, the market has grown exponentially over the past twelve months.

“We now have over 50 stalls, which is twice as many as when we started,” says Antoinette. “We’re adding new stalls every month, and excitingly we’ve been able to support a variety of new products.”

“We like to stock products created right here in our community and we are very proud to represent our local craftspeople. You’ll find things that have been repaired, things that have been repurposed and things that have been remade into something totally different. I like to think of it as a beautiful circle-of-life.”

To accommodate its growing popularity, the market has also expanded its floor space, opening up a whole new area dedicated to furniture and the work of local artists. And a new garden provides a range of fresh plants and vegetables for sale.

As well as being the perfect place to find unique or handcrafted items, there are plenty of spaces to relax and socialise. A designated community space can be booked by local groups for workshops, book clubs or gatherings, and there’s a lovely, green outdoor area to chill out in. Over the summer, a variety of local musicians will also be staging special performances at the market.

Stop by for a quick and healthy meal at Chill Bill Café – tasty and nutritious house-made dishes to eat in or take away.

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And bringing the flavour of Melbourne’s famous laneways to Wonthaggi, they now serve Proud Mary coffee (from Collingwood’s iconic café and roaster).

This bustling and creative space was recently recognised in the 2017 Bass Coast Business Awards, where it won the Business Innovation category. To find out why, drop by this summer and let The Wonthaggi Market steal your heart.

Open daily from 9.30am – 4.30pm.

A MARKET WITH A HEART.

CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY SPACE, COLLABORATION, AND GREAT COFFEE.

17 KORUMBURRA RD, WONTHAGGI (OPPOSITE BUNNINGS) 0419 342 815 OPEN 7 DAYS 9.30AM – 4.30PM coast 53

Peek-a-view prints on canvas. Small affordable, ready to go murals in three sizes. Buy or order at La Casa Sawtellis Gallery, 129 Sth Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin.

Transform any indoor or outdoor space into a work of art with a unique, custom-made mural. With more than 50 years experience, Melissa Turner and Brigi e Dawson have created over 1000 murals locally and internationally. Custom original art. Designed, applied and sometimes installed. Murals, street art, trompe l’oeil, scenic art and canvas art.

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129 Sth Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin 3980 b.design339@gmail.com | www.melbournesmurals.com.au | Melbourne’s Murals and Interior Designs Brigi e 0400 748 956 | Melissa 0402 005 780

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Golf your OWN WAY

This stunning course on the Mornington Peninsula is finding new and exciting ways for everyone to enjoy golf.

Eagle Ridge – one of the Peninsula’s premier public access courses – has one eye on tradition and one on the future.

New formats, special entry offers and event hire are just some of the ways they are revitalising the game and encouraging everyone to enjoy everything the course has to offer.

“We need to be much more than a great golf course,” explains Eagle Ridge General Manager, Wayne Lucas. “With people in general being more time-poor, the game of golf itself has to evolve with shorter and more entertaining formats.”

Shorter, easier and faster forms of the game are now on offer at Eagle Ridge, including Three 18, 6 after 3, Summer 6 and Twilight golf.

In a unique initiative on the Peninsula, Eagle Ridge is also targeting younger players. “We are doing our part in fostering development in the younger ranks by offering free golf to all juniors (16 and under) when they play with a paying adult,” says Wayne. “That means any adult can have up to three juniors playing with them free of charge, any day, any time, depending on available tee times. We hope this will encourage dads and mums to bring their children, grandchildren and friends out on the course.”

Eagle Ridge’s golf professional runs junior clinics for children six and over. A series of specialist ladies clinics are also on offer.

The spectacular surrounds and beautiful buildings of Eagle Ridge make it a popular choice for weddings, cocktail parties

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and other celebrations. With a magnificent ballroom and members lounges, there are venue options for every occasion, from formal weddings to casual pop-up events. “We cater for all sorts of functions that can utilise our substantial venue,” says Wayne. “Our events team are prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure your special day is perfect.”

For more information on holding an event or enjoying a game of golf at Eagle Ridge, visit www.eagleridge.com.au

Eagle Ridge Golf Course, 215 Browns Rd, Boneo (03) 5988 2500.

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LE

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Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11.30am to 5pm January open 7 days – Pizza Thursday to Monday.

Sculptures December & January.

108 Parr St, Leongatha | inquiries@lucindaestate.com.au | 0439 337 270

It’s a family affair Stunning views overlooking the Tarwin River and rolling green hills above Leongatha, Lucinda Estate is Andrew Gromotka and his family’s home and his passion. “This is not just a job, it’s a way of life,” says Andrew.

Andrew greets visitors to the cellar door – so the person who make the wines will guide you through the wines produced on site. With a focus on growing outstanding grapes, the vineyard is lovingly tended and combined with winemaking techniques that highlight the seasonal growing conditions, produces artisan wines filled with flavour, texture and aroma. Lucinda Estate is a fantastic venue to enjoy great wine, delicious food and beautiful views.

Our Gippsland growers and makers We are privileged to source produce from people who are equally as passionate as we are in the growing and making of their products, to use on our pizzas and serve with our wines.

Some or our favourite collaborators include Barry & Cheryl from Berrys Creek Cheeses.

Nadine from Wattle Bank Park Farm. AnnMarie & Chris from Gippsland Mushrooms.

Illa & Maria from Fish Creek Mount of Olives.

Bron & Bourke form Prom Country Cheese.

Please seek out these producers at Farmers Markets, direct from their farms or your local supermarkets.

Art among the vines This is the fourth year of Lucinda Estate’s Sculpture Exhibition, curated by renowned artist Bob Hickman. Stroll amongst the vines and admire sculptures by 14 of Gippsland’s finest artists, working in metal, stone, Hebel and wood. Open weekends up until Christmas, then every day from New Year’s Day until the end of January. Enjoy a wine tasting and pizza, then experience this unique opportunity to see large scale-pieces in a natural outdoor setting.

Some of our favourite pizzas Berrys Creek Blue Cheese, pumpkin, basil, pistachio & tomato.

Wattlebank Park Farm free range pork sausage, tomato, oregano, chilli & mozzarella Fish Creek Mount of Olives, salami, roasted red capsicum, tomato, oregano & mozzarella cheese.

Gippsland Mushrooms Swiss Brown Mushrooms & Prom Country Cheese “Prom-Picnic” sheep’s milk cheese, tomato, truffle salt & oregano.

Mirboo North pasture fed chicken, basil, asparagus, mozzarella, almonds & tomato.

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LONG JETTY FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

Start your South Gippsland discovery with a stay at the Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Park. Located an easy two hour drive from Melbourne or Phillip Island the caravan park is conveniently positioned on the Corner Inlet coastline close to some of the best fishing spots and walking trails that Victoria has to offer.

A stone’s throw from some of the best snapper spots in Victoria and a short cycle to the Great Southern Rail Trail, the Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Park is perfect for couples, families or groups. Use the park as a base to explore South Gippsland’s famous farmers’ markets and galleries or explore our abundant natural attractions: Agnes Falls, Wilsons Promontory, Turtons Creek or Tarra Bulga National Park.

The Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Parks offers clean, comfortable and affordable campsites and cabin facilities in a natural setting. Onsite facilities include free WiFi, camp kitchens and play grounds. Boat ramps are close by.

6 Port Welshpool Road, Port Welshpool VIC 3965 longjettycp@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.longjettycaravanpark.com.au (03) 5688 1233

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YANAKIE FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

Yanakie Foreshore Caravan Park is located an easy five-minute drive from Wilsons Promontory National Park. The park offers caravan and camping sites as well as a variety of fully equipped self-contained cabins for a relaxing getaway.

As well as being close to the ‘Prom’ Yanakie is also a convenient location to explore walking tracks and the majestic beaches of Waratah Bay and Sandy Point.

If you enjoy fishing then Yanakie Caravan Park will suprise and delight with easy access to Corner Inlet via the nearby boat ramp. Snapper, flathead, whiting and trevally can all be found in the Inlet... but if you don’t have any success don’t despair our local eateries can help satisfy your seafood craving.

Facilities at the Yanakie Caravan Parks are clean and well-maintained and a number of onsite services are provided including free WiFi, camp kitchen and playground. Cabin accommodation is perfect for families, couples or groups.

Take a trip to Yanakie Caravan Park and experience our unique coastal getaway.

390 Foley Road, Yanakie VIC 3960 yanakiecp@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.yanakiecaravanpark.com.au (03) 5687 1295

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words kelly mccarthy photos warren reed

Preserving HER COMMUNITY

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By following her passion, Paula Calafiore is helping preserve and enhance a vibrant community.

Small communities are bound together by layers of shared history and traditions, some so long-standing that they’ve become part of the town itself. However, it takes the commitment of individuals such as Mirboo North’s Paula Calafiore to keep these connections strong.

“Mirboo North has a ridiculous number of community groups and associations,” laughs Paula Calafiore, local teacher and wearer of many hats. “For a town of our size, to have over 70 sporting groups, community groups and organisations is pretty unique. How lucky are the youth of Mirboo North that there are so many things for them to get involved in?”

Paula welcomes me to morning tea with her tiny, beautiful mother Lina, who fills in the details of her daughter’s stories with a heavy accent and precision accuracy. Paula is clever, passionate and somehow manages to give the undivided attention characteristic of someone with all the time in the world despite the various responsibilities she juggles.

In her day job, Paula teaches Prep and Italian at Mirboo North Primary School, where she’s worked since she landed her first teaching role during her final year of university. Paula began as a multicultural aide before taking on the Italian teaching role when a vacancy arose, then eventually moving into the classroom teaching the Prep class. Over the past 24 years she’s taught up to Grade Two, filled a role as Early Years coordinator, and spent a couple of years teaching reading recovery, a system that really resonated with her and that she still applies in her classroom today.

Paula explains her love of early childhood education: “It’s a personal preference, but I think Prep is the most rewarding level. Every year is so different, with a different group of kids that you’ve got to get to know. They’ve all got different backgrounds and different entry levels that they bring to you – all these little personalities that you’ve got to try to make connections with so you can work out makes them tick.”

Outside school, Paula coordinates the annual Debutante Ball, organises fundraising for the school chaplaincy program, runs activities at the Mirboo North Pool including the iconic Mirboo North Idol talent competition, and has recently joined ArtSpace, a gallery selling local artisan work. “Everything I do is for the youth …” she says, “…or to keep something good going. You never want something to stop, and then think, ‘I could have helped to keep that going.” >

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When it comes to keeping things going, the traditions of Mirboo North’s Italian community – a large and close-knit group, many of whom migrated to Mirboo North in the 1950s from Solarino, in Sicily – are close to her heart. Over the past 50 years they have celebrated the Festival of St Paul (Solarino’s patron saint) as they do in Italy with a mass, fireworks and procession of their own statue of St Paul. Eventually, however, enthusiasm lagged and there had been discussion of winding it back to a far smaller event.

When local women Rosie Romano and Gina Carpinteri attended La Fiera Festival in Myrtleford, they returned brimming with ideas to reinvigorate Mirboo North’s floundering festival. And naturally Paula was top of the ‘to call’ list. As she says, “If you want something done, ask a busy person!’

would make ‘un sacco di soldi’ (a sack of money) and return to her. Years passed and his fortune was not so easily made, so Paolo sent for Lina to join him in Australia.

But Lina’s family would not let her undertake the month-long sea voyage unless she was married. So the couple married ‘by proxy’ with Lina in her wedding dress back in Solarino, Paolo waiting in Mirboo North, and a relative standing in for him at the ceremony. Their risk paid off. Paolo and Lina made a new life in Mirboo North, raising their five children here, where Paula recalls Sundays spent at the homes of other local Italian families, making and sharing salami, prosciutto, ricotta or passata.

“It’s going to be about ‘preserving our culture’ through food. Sharing Nonna’s recipes, then telling stories and sharing photos …”

The three women formed a committee and set about reinventing the Festival, aiming to strike a balance between maintaining tradition and appealing to a wider audience. They began by changing the festival name to Mirboo North Italian Festa, shifting the focus to Italian food and culture, and lining up a full program of free family entertainment in the town centre. Then they promoted it heavily on social media and via their various networks.

The Festa relaunched in 2016. “We had no idea it was going to be so big,” Paula says. “If we’d got 1000 people there we would have been absolutely rapt, so when 5000 came it just surpassed all our expectations. We were in shock.”

The second Festa embraced the romance of the migrant story with an exhibition of antique wedding dresses accompanied by local stories, including that of Paula’s parents, Paolo and Lina. They were childhood sweethearts who were separated when Paolo moved to Australia with the promise that he

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Paula is already looking forward to next year’s Festa, which is locked in for Sunday February 11th and will focus on the importance of maintaining tradition through food, particularly in a new country. Paula says, “It’s going to be about ‘preserving our culture’ through food. Sharing Nonna’s recipes, then telling stories and sharing photos of people making prosciutto, salami and sausages, or preserving olives and the like.”

A connection to people and place is something that clearly drives Paula to invest in the community. She explains: “There are opportunities for everybody to get out there and get involved, but the thing that’s going to drive you is your passion. You know, I’m not going to be one of those people changing the world and finding cures for cancer and all that. I’ll never be one of those people, but through your connections and your passion – that’s where you can make a difference.”

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK. Family friendly 2 km from main township • 100 metres from beach • Powered & ensuite powered sites

Large range of accommodation Indoor heated pool • Games room • Recreation & conference room

Toddler playground WiFi • Jumping cushion • Ball court

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272 Church St, Cowes 3922 | Phone : +61 3 5952 2258 | Email: info@anchorbelle.com.au | www.anchorbelle.com.au

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Summer racing AND EVENTS

Combining Melbourne’s reputation for track-side glamour with the relaxed fun of country races, Mornington Racecourse is the perfect summer day out.

There’s no better time to be in Mornington than summer and there’s no better way to celebrate than by enjoying a day at the track. Events include the popular Christmas Race days, New Year’s Clip Clop Family Race day, Mornington Summer Race Day on 7 January and the Australia Day Races – so there’s plenty for every age to enjoy.

As the premier events venue on the Peninsula, Mornington Racecourse offers a range of dining and entertaining packages to suit every budget at all their race days. Indulge in a gourmet, three-course lunch with entry to the exclusive members enclosure. Get a group of friends together and enjoy the day in a private room or relax on the lawn in the general area.

A trip to the track is great for office outings, Christmas parties, networking or entertaining clients and there’s a package to match every option. Affordable general admission tickets are also available, with free-entry for all children under 15, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a day out with friends and family.

the lawn and enjoy the live music. Plus the popular four-day Food Truck Carnival returns over the Australia Day weekend.

For family fun, this year the hugely popular outdoor Sunset Cinema on Friday 12 January is screening Despicable Me 3.

With food trucks and rides, it’s maximum fun for kids and a relaxing outing for parents.

And don’t forget, the team at Mornington Racecourse can cater for any event – from family celebrations, to weddings or corporate functions. The spectacular surroundings and professional catering and events staff will ensure your event is a fantastic success.

Enjoy regular makers markets on the second Sunday of each month, or the Twilight Craft Market on 4 January. Browse the hand-made, homemade or home-grown items for sale, enjoy delicious takeaway from the onsite street vendors and relax on

For details of regular dining, entertainment or group bookings, visit www.mrc.racing.com. To book or discuss your private function, call 5975 3310.

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THE PREM I ER EVENTS DESTINATION

ON THE PENINSULA Our team can cater for all types of events - from a private occasion, to a corporate event, wedding or a music festival; we can personally tailor a package to suit your individual requirements.

Our professional catering team and events staff will assist you in creating a memorable occasion.

MAKE YOU R ENQU I RY NOW Contact Lauren Holland lholland@mrc.net.au | (03) 5975 3310 coast 67

WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

photo karina sorrell

Immersive AND EMPOWERING WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

Phillip Island’s ever-changing coastline forms the perfect backdrop for a surprisingly intimate and up-close wildlife adventure on Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Wild Oceans EcoBoat as it speeds across the surface of the water on its daily 90 minute Adventure Tour.

Starting your journey in the sheltered waters of Western Port, the beaches of Cowes and Ventnor slide effortlessly by as you make your way towards Seal Rocks, home of the world’s largest colony of Australian fur seals. As you pass the headland of Grossard Point, you can’t help but notice the shoreline changing from grassy sand-dunes to colourful rock-faces, evidence of ancient geological forces at work.

The EcoBoat slips into a protected inlet between two rocky plateaus, and you find yourself confronted with the unmistakable sights, sounds and smells of a seal colony.

The naturally curious and playful seals immediately surround the boat and duck their heads in and out of the water, perhaps as interested in you as you are in them. Their antics look like a cross between leap-frog and hide and seek.

As you approach the western tip of Phillip Island the volcanic origins of the stunning coastline become clear and the cliffs rise higher and the Nobbies rock formation looms ahead of you. The calm waters of the bay give way to the increasing swells driven in relentlessly by the Southern Ocean.

The children and even some of the adults let out little squeals of excitement and joy as your captain skillfully and playfully navigates the rigid-hulled inflatable EcoBoat around and over the waves.

You manage to tear your gaze away from the seals for just a moment and one of the onboard screens catches your eye.

You take a little time to watch the frolicking seals below the surface, thanks to the underwater camera, but of course the real excitement is all around you. You notice that everyone onboard has a grin from ear to ear and you realise that you must look exactly the same as everyone else, sharing this special moment of being in the midst of a wild seal colony, in their home.

Twenty minutes after departing Cowes jetty you arrive at Seal Rocks, an important breeding area and nursery for around 25,000 Australian fur seals. On any given day, you can expect to see up to about 8,000 seals on the two rocky islands that make up Seal Rocks.

Your reverie of this amazing experience is immediately brought into sharp focus as your ranger reveals some of the challenges faced by these seals on a daily basis. Marine debris poses an ongoing and very real problem for these remarkable mammals. The curiosity and playfulness of the seal pups especially can lead them to investigate or play with a whole

words & photos supplied

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range of objects they find in the water, and results all too often in a seal becoming entangled.

Phillip Island Nature Parks’ researcher Dr Rebecca McIntosh leads a dedicated group of rangers and skilled volunteers on regular research missions to Seal Rocks and they manage to rescue an average 20 entangled seals each year.

Entanglements are often life-threatening and can occur from a range of discarded items including fishing nets, fishing line, plastic bags, balloon strings, hats, and even the plastic yokes that hold a six-pack of beer cans together.

Phillip Island Nature Parks is a self-funded not for profit organisation, so all proceeds from ticket sales on the EcoBoat or any of its other attractions are invested straight back into ongoing research, conservation and education activities, including rescue missions on Seal Rocks.

Visit www.penguins.org.au or call the friendly Nature Parks team on 5951 2830 for any enquiries on the Wild Oceans EcoBoat or discounted combo tickets including the Penguin Parade, Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

“Rescuing seals is an enormously difficult task and it’s a problem best tackled by ensuring these materials don’t find their way into the marine environment in the first place,” says Dr McIntosh.

This simple but important conservation message resonates with you and you realise that you can have a positive impact on our environment and our wildlife, by making just a few choices. You can choose to blow bubbles instead of balloons at your next outdoor event. You can remember to take your reusable bags with you when you go shopping. You can take a keep cup with you and say no to single use coffee cups.

Your time out at Seal Rocks is drawing to a close and as you say goodbye to the thousand or so new friends you’ve just made, you feel empowered to make a difference, and you marvel at the time you got to spend with these amazing mammals. The fun isn’t quite over though as your skipper shows you that a surfboard is not the only thing that can catch a wave as you ride the surging ocean swell at the Cat Bay National Surfing Reserve on the way back to Cowes.

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Relax and REJUVENATE

The Wellness Manor offers sublime, holistic spa experiences set within the grounds of an 18th century vicarage.

Just off Main St Mornington, when you step through the gate into the beautiful, lush garden you can’t help but feel the tranquil and transformative energy of the property – your journey into pure relaxation and rejuvenation has begun.

Greeted warmly at the door, your host will guide you to a stunning bathing area. Mineral water pools, rich in magnesium and potassium, soften the body and soothe the mind.

Infrared Sauna offers deep, penetrating warmth to ease muscular aches and pains, whilst assisting your body’s natural detox process. Sipping on filtered water and fresh herbal tea, you will have the perfect chance to “just be” whilst enjoying the warmth of the pools.

The Wellness Manor have an amazing range of beautiful, therapeutic treatments which can be tailored to your specific needs. Professional hosts will be delighted to assist you in choosing a perfect, personal treatment. Dreamy massages, body scrubs and wraps, and indulgent steam room treatments are all on offer. Cosmeceutical-grade Kerstin Florian facials are available alongside certified organic Retreatment skincare.

Highly trained spa therapists will customise your facial to ensure your skin is newly radiant and healthy.

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The relaxation space leaves guests breathless! Once your treatment is complete, you are whisked away to a luxurious day bed where local Crittenden wines and cold-pressed juices are served. You may like to indulge in a seasonal cheese and fruit platter! Enjoy an hour amongst the beautiful garden with guided meditations, mindful colouring, birdsong and the soft bubbling of the fountain.

The Wellness Manor also offers the award-winning bodysculpting system Coolsculpt. This innovative technology can help to decrease fat on the body in those stubborn areas, leaving you newly defined. They also offer colon hydrotherapy for those wanting to experience the benefits and spring into Summer! This gentle hydrotherapy is fully guided and supported by a trained therapist. You won’t believe your newfound energy.

Visit The Wellness Manor for a Happy Mornington Summer!

Your place - your time.

1 ROSS STREET, MORNINGTON. WELCOME@THEWELLNESSMANOR.COM PH: 5976 8791 WWW.THEWELLNESSMANOR.COM THEWELLNESSMANOR THEWELLNESSMANOR

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Art, passion AND FOOD

La Casa Sawtellis is an authentic a la carte Italian restaurant and gallery in Tooradin Village. Approximately half way between Melbourne and Phillip Island, it’s the perfect spot to stop off for lunch or a relaxing drink.

Owners Robert Cauzzo and Brigitte Dawson have transformed a tired old building on the South Gippsland Highway into a quirky restaurant/gallery bustling with life. Originally built as a guesthouse in 1890, the premise had numerous incarnations, the most recent being the old Country Kitchen Chinese Restaurant, a Tooradin institution for 30 years.

Rob and Brigitte had experience with this type of endeavour when they established their Frankston restaurant/gallery, Beach 162. They put their renovation and restaurant expertise to good use in Tooradin. The old building was overhauled, a new kitchen installed and the outdoor area transformed into the perfect spot for alfresco dining and music performances.

The menu centres around a selection of pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. Rob is passionate about the authenticity and flavours of all the meals he creates and he is joined at the pizza oven by son Aaron. La Casa serves up a full breakfast menu (featuring every possible permutation of free-range eggs) as well as lunch and dinner. A great range of pasta adds a decidedly Mediterranean flavour to the menus, which also include mouth-watering burger and parma options. All the

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food is made from scratch with fresh local ingredients and there are vegetarian and gluten free options available.

Art work adorns the walls quite literally, with Melbourne’s Murals painted wings transforming patrons into angels. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions and performances from local musicians (visit their Facebook page to find out what’s on).

The artwork on sale includes Peekaview children’s prints, a range of metal art and Rezinart. Rob uses a very different epoxy resin and specialised dyes to create sometimes massive pieces of art that look alive and change with the light.

He has done many commissions that have been shipped all over Australia.

Love, artistic inspiration and a passion for food has given an old building a new lease on life and created the perfect place to stop on your way to the coast.

La Casa Sawtellis is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Thursday to Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.

Available for private functions.

Art f ds the soul.

Eclectic Art Gallery featuring artists in residence, live music, original artwork and yes, we do commissions.

Home of Melbourne Murals and Peekaview Childrens Prints.

We have a great beer garden and are available for functions.

BUT YOU CAN’T LIVE ON ART ALONE

When you get hungry we offer an authentic Italian a la carte menu with wood-fired pizza, parmas and burgers from around the world. Plus we make a wicked cup of coffee.

La Casa Sawtellis. Restaurant Gallery.

5998 3837 129 Sth Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin 3980 9am – 3pm, Thursday – Sunday 6pm till close, Thursday – Saturday sawtellis@iprimus.com.au LaCasaSawtellis

R E S TA U R A N T E

GALLERIA

5998 3837

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

The fabric OF LIFE Karin Murphy Ellis brings recycled fabric, clothes and everyday objects to life in her eclectic art.

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An inventive and driven creative spirit whose body of work encompasses costumes, jewellery, handbags, painting and sculpture, Karin wears many hats – and she makes them too. “I’m not a milliner, but I do like to make strange-shaped hats,” chuckles Karin. “I like them to be a bit odd.”

Her love of sewing started young, and this, along with a career on the stage in ballet and theatre, has had a profound influence on her artistic output. The ferocious energy she used to channel into dance and performance – a friend once described her as being ‘born a Valium short’ – is now directed into her extraordinary output of original art.

The one-of-a-kind outfits Karin creates are best described as wearable art. “It’s not as out-there as a costume from Cirque Du Soleil, but I do go back to my theatre days and there is a slightly over-the-top, avant-garde take to my clothing.”

Driven by fabrics and combinations of colour, she diligently

scours op-shops looking for inspiration. “I upcycle and recycle. I take garments apart and turn them into something else.” She hates working with patterns, preferring to fold, twist and bend the material until a suitable shape emerges.

“I found I could make a dress with no seams, so I wouldn’t have to cut the fabric and ruin the pattern. Some textiles are beautiful, but when you cut them and then you’ve got to join the pieces together again, you lose the continuity of the fabric.” Karin laughingly recounts the time when a shop in Queensland wanted to order thirty of a particular dress she’d created. “Well, I just couldn’t manage it. There was no way I could remember how I’d done it.”

A dress made from a man’s shirt; a medieval wedding gown; coats crafted from vintage blankets; and a jacket made from four deconstructed skirts are just a sample of her clothing repertoire. Over the years a number of Melbourne retail >

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boutiques stocked Karin’s designs (her fashion label Lissy is named after her mother), and her garments were popular amongst singers and performers. Nowadays you’re more likely to find the outfits on display in a gallery, although Karin is busy putting together a website in preparation for another assault on the fashion market. “I’ll be 68 this year – not that that matters – but time marches on. If I don’t address it now, I’ll leave my run too late …”

Many of the costumes come complete with striking jewellery and other accessories – although she also makes standalone pieces. Much like her compulsive op-shopping, she is constantly seeking out everyday objects and materials with which to create her jewellery. She frequents junk shops and hardware stores – rubber grommets, silver washers, stainlesssteel boat fastenings are ideal – then blends them with deconstructed pieces of old jewellery and found objects. An Egyptian-inspired necklace is made from old hinges wired together, with elements of a lapis lazuli bracelet in between, while a neckpiece is fashioned from lava rock and Cambodian copper coins. “I’ve been known to make pieces out of copper wire from old washing-machine motors. I knit it … copper wire is lovely and supple. And while you’re knitting, you can add things, like pearls. I thread a bit on and knit away.”

She also creates jewellery ranges. “I could have 30 pieces and the theme might be black and silver material. But one of them

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might have copper in it, another might have some crystal drops. So there’s a similar look, but no two are the same.” Even when she makes earrings, they aren’t identical: “I just can’t force myself make a pair.”

A petite figure dressed in a low-key, stylish black outfit (“I don’t wear the clothes I make”), Karin is charming, laughing often and bubbling with enthusiasm. She’s juggled an impressive and frankly exhausting list of careers and jobs – performer, dancer, ballet-school founder, director and producer of awardwinning stage shows, costume designer, fully-trained chef, marriage celebrant, and real estate agent. But a family crisis brought an abrupt change of focus.

Three years ago, daughter Jessy had a brain aneurysm which left her hospitalised for months and fighting for life. “They told us that ninety-six per cent of people who suffer aneurysms don’t make it, and the other four per cent are left mostly in a vegetative state,” Karin says quietly. She quit her job as a cook at a local café and put her catering company on hold. “It was a life-changing experience for us.”

Jessy’s recovery is miraculous given the medical odds, but she is still not able to live fully independently, as the piece of the brain the doctors removed controls her vision and spatial awareness.

“She’s not ever going to be exactly the same as she was, but we’ve still got her and we’re all really grateful.” >

WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

The Boatramp Cafe

MINGARA GALLERY

Relax in the sunshine and enjoy a coffee or a meal at this sunny beach-front café. Overlooking the bay, with a great range of kayaks and paddleboats for hire, the kids can enjoy the water, while you savour the quality coffee and fine food. Delicious milkshakes, delicious fish and chips and deluxe breakfast rolls are house specialties.

Mingara Gallery is currently showing the impressive and dynamic works of Cristina Popovici. Micro universes of unseen places and events are created and metaphors are expressed through the painter’s artistic language and the use of clean colours and tones.

Paintings | Jewellery | Sculpture | Creative gifts

Open daily from 7am to 7pm (weather dependent) a: 1 Anderson Road, Cowes p: 03 5952 5050 e: cowesboathire@icloud.com w: www.phillipislandhire.com.au

a: 242 Thompson Avenue, Cowes p: 03 5952 3722 e: noelle@mingaragallery.com.au w: www.mingaragallery.com.au

Glorious garlic

See Peruvian Master Chef, Alejandro Saravia on the Festival Stage. Live ‘al fresco’ cooking shows all day.

Taste smoked garlic beer and garlic icecream. Garlic workshops with Penny Woodward and her team of experts. Talk to garlic growers and sample dozens of varieties of garlic. Hear Dr Michael Abels talk on Garlic and health. Billy-cart time trials, sack races, veggie sculptures and more fun and games. Wine and Cheese Precinct – with 18 growers and makers.

Come to the Dairy Park – milk cows, make butter and cuddle the calves. Historic cars and tractors.

Over 100 food, produce and craft stalls to explore.

Live music all day.

Saturday 17th February, 9.00am – 4.00pm Meeniyan, South Gippsland. Entry : $10 – Kids FREE

The magical flavour of fresh Australian garlic.

Like us on Facebook. Spread the word about Victoria’s only garlic festival.

www.meeniyangarlicfestival.com.au

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“I take garments apart and turn them into something else.”

Karin and her husband, award-winning artist Ken Griffiths, decided to sell their home – the iconic State Mines Hotel in South Dudley. “It was a big building to look after and we didn’t want to be anchored to this never-ending renovation.” They moved to a smaller property in Wonthaggi and built a studio.

“We had an epiphany with Jessy. Ken resigned from his work and I’d resigned from my jobs. We both thought we’d better do what we think we’re here for, so that’s all we do now … pursue our art.”

In her custom-built space, Karin is free to explore her artistic urges. “I suppose it’s a bit glib to say this, but I get up in the morning and I look forward to going out into the studio.”

She’s now added sculpture and painting to her résumé. “The first sculpture was a female torso. I made myself an armature (an open framework on which a sculpture is moulded with clay or similar material) and wound it all up with copper wire.”

Her next creation was Athena, a Grecian warrior, crafted from an old dressmaker’s dummy. “I built her some boobs and a bottom, and she’s covered in gold leaf with old feathers over her shoulder. I’ve left her outside for nearly a year, and all the copper has definitely tarnished. She looks quite ancient now.”

Her foray into painting came about as Ken wrestled with the concept of a different approach to painting as part of his Masters degree. Karin stepped in. “They wanted him to not think about what he was doing … just throw paint at the

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canvas. He couldn’t paint for six months. It was terrible. I said, ‘I’ll prove to you that anyone can do what they’ve asked you to do’.” She started throwing things at the canvas, including paint, fabric, old paper patterns, copper wire, rusty nails and gold leaf. She then placed magnets on the back, so the metal objects can be rearranged – creating an interactive artwork.

“The next thing you know, I’ve become a painter. I got firsts in a couple of art shows, for the best contemporary work, and best other media.” Despite her amusement at her original motivation, she’s already created a number pieces, including a diptych, and says “Ken and I are going to collaborate. That would be rather good fun.”

Daughter Jessy says that since her mother has been able to focus on her art, it’s the happiest and most driven she’s ever been. And at a stage in life when most people are slowing down, Karin is intensely creative and productive.

“I’m sure none of this would’ve come about if Jessy’s life hadn’t changed the way it did. I’d still be there in the kitchen chopping away, getting hammered with the lunchtime rush … seventeen kilos of bacon and three hundred eggs!”

WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Goat Island Gallery & Sculpture Garden

Located in a delightful pocket of southern Victoria, Goat Island Gallery & Sculpture Garden is a welcome addition to the Bass Coast art scene.

The acres of gardens, pastures and wetlands surrounding the gallery make it a unique setting for contemporary artist, Frank Schooneveldt.

For Frank – it is an inspirational place to create and display work.

For visitors – it is a tranquil and surprising place to share that experience.

• Heated indoor pool • Outdoor kids pool • Tennis court • Fully equipped gymnasium • Steam room and spa • Aqua classes/Swimming lessons • Group training

• Massage/Beauty treatments • Hairdressing • Myotherapy • Personal training • Fully air conditioned • Friendly staff • Suitable for all ages

Great membership options and casual usage welcomed. Just a short stroll from Inverloch town centre and a couple of minutes walk from Anderson Inlet foreshore.

Contact Frank for further details and Gallery & Garden opening hours a: 18 Boundary Road, Wonthaggi – Inverloch p: 0412 485 041 e: schoone@ozemail.com.au w: www.schooneart.com

a: 5 Lindsey Close, Inverloch p: 03 5674 6577 e: info@inverlochhealthclub.com.au w: www.inverlochhealthclub.com.au

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Inside THE BARREL

When the sun is out and the water is sparkling, who hasn’t dreamt of surfing a perfect wave?

The Islantis Surf Experience allows all of us to live that dream, with their unique, multi-media journey through Australia’s surfing culture. This light-hearted trip down surfing’s memory lane captures both the thrill and the maverick spirit of surfing, giving us a potted history from it’s earliest days in Hawaii through to modern times.

Nestled inside the Rip Curl store in Newhaven, the Islantis Surf Experience is a ‘must-see’ for anyone with an interest in the Island’s rich surfing culture.

Walk past the racks of surf wear, wet suits and boards, and you’ll find a doorway to another time and place. Your Surf Experience starts in the chapel, where the surf gods are evoked to bring you an irreverent history lesson.

The gods then put you on a board, including paddling out at Phillip Island’s iconic Magiclands at Woolamai. The 360-degree room takes you right inside the barrel, so you can experience the thrill of carving it up – without even getting your feet wet.

Back on dry land, the exhibition takes you into an iconic Sandman panel van, for a treasure-trove of memorabilia.

A Bells Beach Trophy (courtesy of Ripcurl), and signed competition rashies are just some of the items on display.

Layne Beachley and Mark ‘Occy’ Occhilupo and many other local, national and international surfing legends have donated or loaned boards for the display, including the founder of the original Islantis store, Laurie Thompson.

The evolution of surfing is captured in a display of the changing shapes and sizes of surfboards through the decades.

And there’s a slice of the Island’s history in a collection of wooden boards once hired out the Penguin Parade to those keen to try their hand (and feet) at surfing.

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Immerse yourself in the Islantis Surf Experience – inside the Rip Curl store at the gateway to Phillip Island.

The store also stocks a huge range of surfwear, fashion and surf hardware (boards, wetsuits, accessories). Men, women, toddlers and teen ranges all in store, as well as the Island’s biggest swimwear range.

LOCATED AT RIP CURL PHILLIP ISLAND 10 -12 Phillip Island Tourist Road, Newhaven 03 5956 7553 E: info@islantis.com.au www.islantis.com.au coast 81

WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

Take to the Sky There is no better way to see Phillip Island than from above.

Explore parts of the Island that can only be seen by helicopter.

There are 7 scenic flights to choose from, all with unprecedented views of the Island’s spectacular scenery.

Priced from only $85 per person, we are open 7 days a week from 10am.

Walk-ins welcome.

Try it. You’ll love it!

Open 10am – 6pm a: 1 Veterans Drive, Newhaven p: 03 5956 7316 e: info@pih.com.au w: www.pih.com.au

Unique marine wildlife experiences and stunning coastal viewing.

Explore the waters around Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory onboard our vessels the “Kasey Lee” and “Brianna Lee”.

Daily Seal Watching Cruises Twilight Cruise Cape Woolamai Cruise Wilsons Prom Full Day Cruise Seasonal Phillip Island & Wilsons Prom Whale Cruises Group Packages & Charter Options Open Daily 9am-5pm Rotunda jetty carpark 11-13 The Esplanade, Cowes p: 1300 763 739, 03 5952 3501 e: info@wildlifecoastcruises.com.au w: www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au

Summer Exhibition Coolart 13-28 January

10am-4pm Daily Coolart Homestead Lord Somers Rd Somers

ALL PAINTINGS, PHOTOGRAPHY & GLASS FOR SALE Ronda Gray - Girl With the Sapphire Earrings 122 x 76cm Oil on Linen

Enquiries: Terry Earle 0419 541 892

enquiries@withoutpier.com.au www.withoutpier.com.au

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Learn to surf this summer. Our Surf School has been operating for over 20 years and our expert qualified coaches will have you standing up in no time. Lessons available daily. Book now 5952 3443.

• Public and private lessons • Novice to advance surfers

• All equipment provided • Surf safety and awareness tuition.

• Self catering studios • Suitable for couples and families • Pool, spa, sauna • BBQ • Close to beach

Visit our stores for a full range of surf clothing, accessories, footwear, wetsuits, skateboards & custom-made surfboards.

Open 9am to 5pm daily a: 147 Thompson Ave, Cowes | 225 Smiths Beach Rd, Smiths Beach p: 03 5952 2578 e: cowes@islandsurfboards.com.au w: www.islandsurfboards.comau

In glass and rust we trust.

a: 234 Church Street, Cowes p: 03 5952 2822 e: apartglenisla@waterfront.net.au w: www.apartmentsatglenisla.com.au

Artfusion

A living, breathing creative space Steel Sculpture – Fused Glass

9 Anderson Rise, Anderson, VIC. Open Thur to Mon 10.30am – 5pm.

Andrew Kasper 0407 368 538, Marlene Abela 0439 368 538. www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

ANCHOR BELLE

ANNETTE SPINKS

ARTFUSION

ARTISTIC MURALS

Enjoy a family holiday at Anchor Belle Holiday Park. We have something to suit everyone, two-storey townhouse units, cabins, ensuite and powered sites.

Facilities include: indoor swimming pool; jumping cushion; recreation room; games room; multi-purpose ball court; clean, spacious camp kitchens; 100m direct access to the beach.

Annette opened her Art Studio and Gallery in Inverloch four years ago, giving her the opportunity to work on large scale pieces.

Her paintings explore the moods and energy of the ocean. Each piece is created with true feeling and meaning, drawing on her life experiences and emotions. Her expanding body of work includes several series and numerous major commissions.

Artfusion Studio and Gallery is a living, breathing creative space specialising in sculpture and kiln-fused glass. Nestled between two working studios, the gallery includes an open viewing space where you can interact with the artists. This unique artistic experience includes glass artwork, jewellery and a sculpture garden.

Drive in to see the art and meet the artist who create it.

Call 0418 555 222 www.annettespinks.com.au

Call 0407 368 538 (Andrew) or 0439 368 538 (Marlene) www.artfusionstudioandgallery.com

The exceptional artwork on Phillip Island Off Track apartments was created by local experienced artist, Renata from Artistic Murals. Renata is a multitalented, experienced artist who started her professional career at 14yrs old in Hungary.

“Painting for me is a way of expressing myself and creating something unique that make other people happy.” For mural and canvas quotes contact renata@ artisticmurals.com.au

ARTSPACE WONTHAGGI

THE BRIARS AT MT MARTHA

THE GOLDSMITH’S GALLERY

GOOSENECK POTTERY

Located in the Centennial Centre, ArtSpace is a profit-for-purpose community gallery run entirely by volunteers. Regular exhibitions embody contemporary and traditional styles of high quality artworks by Gippsland artists.

Artisan gifts including original textiles, ceramics, jewellery, glassware and woodwork are also featured. The Centennial Centre includes Visitor Information Services and meeting/boardroom facilities for hire.

Bring your family to the Briars for some fun this summer! Little visitors can join the Junior Ranger or Bush Fairies programs or bring the whole family to our After-dark Wildlife Walks. Wander the Wildlife Sanctuary to spot the koalas, kangaroos and wallabies or just relax on the lawns with a picnic or bbq. One visit won’t be enough!

Showcasing some of Australia’s most talented jewellers, goldsmiths and designers, the Gallery also specialises in jewellery repairs and remaking and remodelling old jewellery. Indigenous Jewellery and Art Exhibition featuring Indigenous artist Cassie Leatham and 12 creative jewellers from around Australia runs until 31 January 2018. Open Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm, Sat 10am – 2pm.

Robert Barron produces a unique range of hand-thrown, wood-fired stoneware. The Gooseneck Kiln is one of the largest wood-fired kilns in Australia and visitors are welcome to inspect the workshop and kiln. Range includes jugs, teapots, mugs, baking dishes and platters as well as water features, planters and sculptural pieces. An onsite cottage (sleeps four people) is available to rent.

Call 5678 5788 www.goldsmithsgallery.com.au

Call 0403 023 761 www.gooseneckpottery.com.au

Call 5952 2258 www.anchorbelle.com.au

Call 5672 5767 www.artspacewonthaggi.com.au

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Call 5974 3686 www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

Call 0400 182 669 www.artisticmurals.com.au

LAURIE COLLINS

SCULPTURE GARDEN AND RED TREE GALLERY

LANG LANG GOLF CLUB The deal is play as much golf as you like for $18 after 3pm any day of the week. Carts $25.00 after 3pm. Last carts hired out at 6pm.

Gates close at 8:30pm.

a: 90 Golf Club Road, Lang Lang p: 03 5659 6284 e: llgc@bigpond.com w. www.langlanggolfclub.com.au

Recycled metal sculptures, garden sculptures, junk sculptures, unique furniture, fun metal animals, and lots of other stuff.

Open 9am to 5pm every day a: 420 Main Jindivick Rd, Jindivick p: 03 5628 5224 e: lcollins@dcsi.net.au w: www.lauriecollins.com.au

Create Your Own Adventure.

We provide quality camping equipment for hire. We stock everything from tents, fridges and generators to cooking equipment and sleeping gear. We offer delivery and pick up services and can set up and pack up your campsite.

0411 606 866 1 6 P A R K R D , S A N R E M O PHILLIPISLANDCAMPINGHIRE@GMAIL.COM WWW.PHILLIPISLANDCAMPINGHIRE.COM.AU

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

YANAKIE FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

LONG JETTY FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

ISLANTIS Inside the Rip Curl store in Newhaven, the Islantis Surf Experience is a ‘must-see’ for anyone with an interest in surfing culture. This light-hearted trip down surfing’s memory lane captures both the thrill and the maverick spirit of surfing.

Paddle out at Phillip Island’s iconic Magiclands break in the 360-degree room and view a treasure-trove of memorabilia including a Bells Beach Trophy.

Call 5956 7553 www.islantis.com.au

LONG JETTY FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

Yanakie Foreshore Caravan Park is located an easy five-minute drive from Wilsons Promontory National Park. The park offers caravan and camping sites as well as a variety of fully equipped self-contained cabins for a relaxing getaway.

As well as being close to the ‘Prom’ Yanakie is also a convenient location to explore walking tracks and the majestic beaches of Waratah Bay and Sandy Point.

MANYUNG GALLERY

Start your South Gippsland discovery with a stay at the Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Park. Located an easy two hour drive from Melbourne or Phillip Island the caravan park is conveniently positioned on the Corner Inlet coastline close to some of the best fishing spots and walking trails that Victoria has to offer.

MEENIYAN GARLIC FESTIVAL

Manyung at Mt Eliza is one of If you enjoy fishing then Yanakie Caravan Park will suprise and delight with easy access to Corner Inlet via the nearby boat ramp. Snapper, flathead, whiting and Victoria’s oldest (est.1968) and Athecelebration ofanygarlic, trevally can all be found in Inlet... but if you don’t have success don’tfine despair our local eateries can help satisfy your seafood craving. largest art spaces, showing food and produce from South A stunning foreshore location Facilities at the Yanakie Caravan Parks are clean and well-maintained and a are provided including free WiFi, camp kitchen and the very best of Australian number of onsite servicesGippsland.

Talk to garlic growers, The Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Parksholiday offers clean, comfortable and affordable perfect for summer playground. Cabin accommodation is perfect for families, couples or groups. campsites and cabin facilities in a natural setting. Onsite facilities include free WiFi, Take a trip to Yanakie Caravan Park and experience our unique coastal getaway. contemporary art. Manyung camp kitchens and play grounds. Boat ramps are close by. taste garlic beer, garlic ice cream get-aways.

Just two hours from 390 Foley Road, Yanakie VIC 3960 6 Port Welshpool Road, Port Welshpool VIC 3965 Gallery Group (Sorrento, Mt Eliza yanakiecp@southgippsland.vic.gov.au and an array of foods. Watch Chef longjettycp@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Melbourne on the Corner Inlet www.yanakiecaravanpark.com.au www.longjettycaravanpark.com.au and Malvern) offers free in-home (03) 5687 1295 Alejandro Saravia (Pastuso, ACDC (03) 5688 1233 it’s a perfect location for coastline, art consultancy, a mobile gallery Lane) and local chefs cook up a fishing, exploring walking trails service as well as private artist storm. Talks and workshops at the and relaxing. Nearby attractions dinners, fl oor talks and monthly Garlic Institute. Billy cart racing include Agnes Falls, Wilsons exhibition launches. in our Kids Zone. 9am – 4pm, Prom, Turtons Creek and Tarra Call 9787 2953 Saturday 17th February 2018.

Bulga National Park. Affordable www.manyunggallery.com.au www.meeniyangarlicfestival.com.au campsites and cabin facilities, with camp kitchens, free wifi and playgrounds.

A stone’s throw from some of the best snapper spots in Victoria and a short cycle to the Great Southern Rail Trail, the Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Park is perfect for couples, families or groups. Use the park as a base to explore South Gippsland’s famous farmers’ markets and galleries or explore our abundant natural attractions: Agnes Falls, Wilsons Promontory, Turtons Creek or Tarra Bulga National Park.

Call 5688 1233 www.longjettcaravanpark.com.au

MELBOURNE MURALS MORNINGTON RACE CLUB

Transform any indoor or outdoor space into a work of art with a unique, custom-made mural.

With more than 50 years experience, Melissa Turner and Brigitte Dawson have created over 1000 murals locally and internationally. View some of their spectacular murals in Frankston, including Giant Books at Frankston Library and a Snuggle Pot and Cuddle Pie mural in Memorial park.

Call 0400 748 956 (Brigitte) 0402 005 780 (Melissa) www.melbournemurals.com.au

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NATIONAL VIETNAM VETERANS MUSEUM

OVER THE TOP EVENTS

There’s no better way to celebrate summer than with the glamour and excitement of racing.

The exciting Events Calendar includes Christmas Race Days and events through until March that the whole family can enjoy.

From the Garden Bar to trackside marquees, packages including race day admission and dining for every budget. Also available for private functions.

The NVVM seeks to remember, interpret and relate the experience of the veterans of the Vietnam War and the enduring impact of the war on society. Home to a huge collection of artefacts, interpreted with information, imagery and audio visual devices, it will keep you, your family and friends engaged for the length of your visit. Nui Dat Café open daily.

Wheelchair friendly.

Specialising in clear-span marquees, complete event hire and personalised styling services.

Over the Top Events will work with you on every aspect of your event and design a package to suit your style and budget. Individual items also available for hire.

Call 5975 3310 www.mrc.racing.com

Call 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

Call 5952 1791 www.overthetopevents.com.au

Heather

Fahnle

M O S A I C S B Y T H E B AY

EXPERIENCE A MOVING HISTORY

of ARMOURED

FIGHTING VEHICLES Come and enjoy the beautiful Strzelecki ranges with views of Wilsons Prom from our 400 acre property at South Gippsland Tank Adventures, and do it while you’re cruising around in an army tank! With our ever growing fleet of 11 different vehicles from WWII to modern era, we offer a complete unique tank experience. Perfect for a family day out, bucks party, work or corporate day or if you just want to spoil that special someone.

It will be a day you will never forget! Custom adventures available.

Mosaic Classes (beginners and advanced) with Heather Fahnle.

It’s therapeutic, fun and creative. All materials and lunch supplied.

Phone or email Heather for bookings.

Tide Stories featuring Heather Fahnle and Meg McCarthy.

The Meeniyan Gallery, 84 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan from Sunday 7 January – 4 February 2018. *Commissions available

a: 2349 Woorarra Rd, Wonyip VIC p: Cameron Stone, 0407 611 203 e: info@tankadventures.com.au w: www.tankadventures.com.au

p: 0417 562 625 e: heather@fahnle.com.au w: www.fahnle.com.au

Vista de Phillip Island These beautiful brand new two-storey apartments are the perfect place for a holiday or weekend away

SPACIOUS & COMFORTABLE 3 BAT H R O O M S

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8 GUESTS

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SUITABLE FOR COUPLES & FAMILIES BBQ AREA

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F U LLY E Q U I P P E D K I TC H E N

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2 BEDROOMS WITH TV |

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

0417 379 510 | www.vistadephillipisland.com.au vistadephillipisland@protonmail.com | Unit 7 and 8, 12 Vista Drive, Cape Woolamai, Vic 3925

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

PHILLIP ISLAND CAMPING HIRE

PHILLIP ISLAND PHILLIP ISLAND CHOCOLATE FACTORY GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT

PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

Create your own adventure!

Quality camping equipment for hire, including Freedom canvas tents, Engel portable fridge/ freezers, Honda EU10i generators, Coleman stoves, stretchers, selfinflating mattresses, chairs, folding tables and more. We offer delivery and pick up services, and can set-up and pack-up your campsite.

Visit our website for the full range of products and services. A locally owned and operated business.

A visit to Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate is a chance to see the world’s largest chocolate waterfall, watch delicious chocolates being made, and explore the history of chocolate. Produce your own chocolate bar, purchase your favourites from the chocolate shop or sit and enjoy a coffee, hot chocolate (of course), cool drink or meal at the café. Perfect family-fun.

Looking for a whole lot of action and fun for the whole family this summer? The circuit is the perfect place – with all-new go-karts, hot laps, race simulators, guided tours, slot cars and the History of Motorsport display. Test your skills on the go-kart track – a 750m scale replica of the famous Grand Prix Circuit. Champions Café open for lunch 7 days.

Discover your wild side and enjoy Phillip Island’s spectacular coastline and wildlife! Visit the Penguin Parade, take a virtual tour with the new Antarctic Journey, experience an incredible EcoBoat Tour, see the koalas at the Koala Conservation Centre or step back in time at Churchill Island Heritage Farm. Make the most of your visit with a 4 Parks Pass.

Call 5956 6600 www.phillipislandchocolatefactory. com.au

Call 5952 9400 www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au

Call 5951 2800 www.penguins.org.au

Call 0411 606 866 www.phillipislandcampinghire. com.au

Summer Exhibition

THE STATE COAL MINE

VISTA DE PHILLIP ISLAND

THE WELLNESS MANOR

WITHOUT PIER GALLERY – EST. 1995

Only 25 minutes from Phillip Island, the State Coal Mine is the only historic coal mine experience in the Southern Hemisphere. An affordable and enjoyable day for the whole family. Book an underground tour and discover what a coal mine in the 1900s was really like. Enjoy lunch or refreshments at the café or the sheltered picnic areas and BBQs.

A beautiful two-storey, twobedroom apartment just minutes from Cape Woolamai’s famous surf beach. Suitable for couples and families with room for up to five guests. Includes a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and BBQ area. Perfect for holidays and weekend getaways.

Enjoy a luxury relaxation retreat at our award-winning Day Spa. Catering for all your beauty and wellness need, we offer cleansing mineral pools, a full range of massage and facial therapies, body and steam treatments and detox programs including colonic irrigation. Emerge relaxed and renewed – our specially crafted retreat packages ensure you make the most out of taking time out for you.

Without Pier has established a reputation as a specialist in Australian art from professional and emerging artists, including an extensive range of Indigenous art.

Representing over 150 artists, it is the largest gallery in the City of Bayside. An annual show is held at Coolart in Somers in January.

Call 5672 3053 www.parkstay.vic.gov.au

Call 0417 379 510 www.vistadephillipisland.com.au

Call 5956 8791 www.thewellnessmanor.com

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Call 9583 7577 or Terry Earle 0419 541 892 www.withoutpier.com.au

Enquiries: Terry Earle

enquiries@ www.witho

Sunday 25 February, 11am– 4pm. Gates open at 10am.

Featuring: South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, South Gippsland Concert Band, Wonthaggi Citizens Band and special guests: Royal Australian Navy Band. $15 ticket, $10 concession, Companion Card holders & children under 12 FREE. Food & drink can be purchased at the park, BYO picnic & chair.

Leongatha Lions Club sheltered seating and afternoon tea for senior citizen groups – BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – 5662 3338.

a: Mossvale Park – Strzelecki Hwy, Berrys Creek p: 03 5662 9202, Sophie Dixon e: sophied@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.trybooking.com/RELH – for tickets online

The newly opened gallery of Gippsland artist Meg Hayley and Nick Perrin. Nick’s award-winning work depicts textured landscapes, flowers, trees and foliage inspired by travels to Greece and the UK. Meg works on paper and canvas with a unique whimsy, collecting vintage pieces of decorative china to paint. Jewellery, wire works, bespoke furniture and art materials for sale (specialising in Swiss brand Caran d’ache). Painting and drawing classes available.

Open 6 days a week in summer, 10.30am – 5pm (closed Tuesday) a: 76 Toorak Rd, Inverloch p: 0408 520 576 e: meghayley@live.com

EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. See our website for details. www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

ENDLESSLY FASCINATING AND ABSORBING. Holographic Light & Sound Show.

Audio visual devices Aircraft, helicopters, Centurion Tank, vehicles, images, dioramas.

--NUI DAT CAFE – great coffee and refreshments.

25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven, Phillip Island Open Daily 10am – 5pm ph 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org

national vietnam veterans museum ‘Our museum talks to you’

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS YANAKIE FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

THE WONTHAGGI MARKET

nd discovery with a stay at the Long Jetty Foreshore n easy two hour drive from Melbourne or Phillip Island eniently positioned on the Corner Inlet coastline close to spots and walking trails that Victoria has to offer.

me of the best snapper spots in Victoria and a short cycle l Trail, the Long Jetty Foreshore Caravan Park is perfect roups. Use the park as a base to explore South ers’ markets and galleries or explore our abundant Falls, Wilsons Promontory, Turtons Creek or Tarra Bulga

Showcasing the creative heart of our community with over 50comfortable stall and holders and a bustling e Caravan Parks offers clean, affordable lities in a natural setting. Onsite facilities include free WiFi, grounds. Boat ramps are close by. specialising in home-made café Port Welshpool VIC 3965 comfort food and fabulous coffee. land.vic.gov.au ark.com.au A thoughtful range of vintage, retro, upcycled, hand-made good and curios for sale. Stocks locally made and environmentally sustainable goods as well as new furniture. Live performances on weekends over summer. Open daily from 9.30am – 4.30pm Call 0419 342 815

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Yanakie Foreshore Caravan Park is located an easy five-minute drive from Wilsons Promontory National Park. The park offers caravan and camping sites as well as a variety of fully equipped self-contained cabins for a relaxing getaway.

As well as being close to the ‘Prom’ Yanakie is also a convenient location to explore walking tracks and the majestic beaches of Waratah Bay and Sandy Point.

YANAKIE FORESHORE CARAVAN PARK

If you enjoy fishing then Yanakie Caravan Park will suprise and delight with easy

to Corner Inlet via the nearby boat ramp. Snapper, flathead, whiting and Aaccess five-minute drive trevally can all be found in the Inlet... but from if you don’tWilsons have any success don’t despair our local eateries can help satisfy your seafood craving.

Prom, the park off ers caravan Facilities at the Yanakie Caravan Parks are clean and well-maintained and a number of onsite services are provided including free WiFi, camp kitchen and and camping sites, as well as fully playground. Cabin accommodation is perfect for families, couples or groups.

Take a trip to Yanakie Caravan Park and experience our unique coastal getaway. equipped self-contained cabins.

390 Foley Road, Yanakie VIC 3960 Ayanakiecp@southgippsland.vic.gov.au perfect for spot fishing, relaxing www.yanakiecaravanpark.com.au (03) 5687 1295 and exploring the walking tracks and majestic beaches of The Prom, Waratah Bay and Sandy Point.

Onsite facilities include free Wifi, camp kitchen and playground.

Call 5687 1295 www.yanakiecaravanpark.com.au

GORDON STUDIO GLASSBLOWERS

When the artists are working, visitors to the studio have the rare opportunity to witness glassblowing from the security and comfort of the light filled viewing mezzanine.

Sport Phillip Marine has relocated and expanded.

The family-owned business has moved to larger, more accessible premises at 129 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, stocking everything you need for life on the water – and catering for landlubbers too. With three pavilions for easy browsing, the range includes high-quality apparel, books, charts, flags, watches and even 300-400 pairs of shoes!

More than just a chandlery and fishing tackle outlet, it’s the Mornington Peninsula’s new lifestyle destination.

7 days a week 10am–5pm 290 Red Hill Road, cnr Dunns Creek Road, Red Hill p: 03 5989 7073 e: mail@gordonstudio.com.au w: www.gordonstudio.com.au

Open Mon – Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sat – Sun 9.00am – 4.00pm a: 129 Mornington-Tyabb Road, Mornington p: 03 5975 4715 e: info@sportphillip.com.au w: www.sportphillip.com.au

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, an hour from Melbourne. Gordon Studio Glassblowers gallery and studio caters for those wishing to view and buy an existing work of art glass as well as those interested in having customized hand blown glass art works created to their own specific needs.

PHILLIP ISLAND OFF-TRACK

ACCOMMODATION

Enjoy some relaxing time at our recently refurbished, fully self-contained apartments. Our large open plan designed apartments are well suited to families or couples looking for long or short term stays. Within walking distance to the heart of Cowes and only a short drive to the Penguin Parade or GP Track. We guarantee your stay with us will be a wonderful experience.

03 5952 6718

www.piofftrack.com | bookings@piofftrack.com 204 Thompson Ave, Cowes

Bespoke, hand-painted murals.

Artistic Murals 0400 182 669 renata@artisticmurals.com.au www.artisticmurals.com.au

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WHAT WE DO ON OUR HOLIDAYS

g estudio c kgallery o

Our Libraries have a huge range of programs and events to suit all ages and interests running throughout Summer, including school holidays.

Though free, most of our programs and events require you to book so please browse and book online at www.wgrlc.eventbrite.com.au

monthly exhibitions of contemporary artwork | art materials | picture framing | jewellery | ceramics

Head Quarters Cafe @ Gecko, Thursday– Monday 9am–5pm.

Open 7 days in January.

Drouin | Foster | Inverloch | Korumburra | Leongatha Mirboo North | Neerim South | Phillip Island | Poowong Warragul | Wonthaggi | Northern Mobile | South Coast Mobile

p: 03 5622 2849 facebook.com/wgrlc instagram.com/wgrlc w: www.wgrlc.vic.gov.au

Gallery open Thur to Mon 10am – 5pm 15 Falls Road, Fish Creek, VIC p: 03 5683 2481, 0423 721 593, 0421 209 878 e: framing@geckostudiogallery.com.au w: geckostudiogallery.com.au

UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE.

Welcome to the State Coal Mine Visitor Centre with cafe, theatrette and shop.

Free site entry to all above ground facilities including gardens, BBQ area, heritage trail, museum and historic buildings.

Opening hours 10am – 4.30pm 7 days a week. Underground tours run daily at 11.30am and 2.00pm, additional tours during holiday periods.

Garden Street, Wonthaggi | Phone 8427 2118 | www.statecoalmine.com.au

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed and supplied

surfer profile

Surfing is swell Max Wells is to surfing what a director is to the movies.

Rather than sitting out the back waiting for sets, you’ll find him behind the scenes at the world’s greatest surfing events making sure they all go to plan.

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This boy from the Murray describes himself as a pretty ordinary surfer. But Max Wells also admits that despite this, he has ridden the wave of an extraordinary surfing career spanning many decades.

Fifteen years in the state’s top surfing job as CEO of Surfing Victoria provided many memorable moments. But the day he and his team picked up the Rip Curl Pro from Bells Beach and trucked it over to Phillip Island probably tops them all. In fact, he describes the decision as positively scary.

Max was a latecomer to surfing. Growing up on the Murray River, footy and cricket were the main sports, but once he discovered surfing he was on a different pathway. He and his mate Michael Parfitt would travel from uni to the west coast for a few waves. After catching his first greenface wave on a single-fin Clemm-Bell in the late seventies, he was hooked.

He moved to Inverloch and worked at Wonthaggi Tech teaching outdoor education. “I’m one of the lucky people in the world who’s had two fantastic careers,” says Max of the series of events that led him from teaching to Surfing Victoria. Surfing was on the school curriculum and he developed an interest in surfing administration through taking students to contests. “If I wanted to help them to achieve their goals, I needed to learn the rules.”

“Phillip Island is one of the best places in the world to run a surfing event.”

“We got to the end of Easter and still hadn’t surfed a men’s heat, and knew we weren’t going to be able to surf it at Bells.” Teams had been scouting across the state and reports were that there was a great bank at Woolamai that could break through the tides. “The only choice was Woolamai.” They made the announcement in the afternoon, loaded up, and finished the new site at 2am. Surfing commenced at 6am and continued through the next three days. “We rang the bell on Woolamai beach: it was very cool.”

Despite Surfing Victoria having its head office in Torquay, Max – who’s never moved from his hometown of Inverloch – has always been a passionate advocate for the quality waves of Bass Coast: “Phillip Island is one of the best places in the world to run a surfing event.”

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Judging small contests with fellow judges Greg Hogan and Adrian Sorati, he became the school representative for Surfing Victoria and then sat on the Board, spending hours as a volunteer and judging contests across the state. He took a year off to work at Surfing Victoria full-time and then went back to Wonthaggi Tech.

A tragic event marked the next turn in his career. “In 1998, after a bunch of kids drowned at Gunnamatta Beach, the Kennett government gave a lot of money to Lifesaving Victoria for a

Seventeen years with Surfing Victoria took him to the very pinnacle of his sport …

photo courtesy of surfing victoria

Play It Safe by the Water campaign,” Max explains. “The project manager at Sport and Rec thought: ‘Hang on – surfers do a lot of rescues,’ so she contacted the Surfing Victoria CEO who gave me the job.” Max pulled together a girls’ water safety day featuring up-and-coming surfers like Amber Goldsbury and Jodie Smith, and it became one of their most successful promotions. “It cost about $800 out of their $2 million budget, and the next thing you know they seconded me out as the program’s project officer working full-time at Surfing Victoria.

Then, in my second year in the role the CEO left – and the board-members told me: ‘You’re the CEO now’.”

Seventeen years with Surfing Victoria took him to the very pinnacle of his sport at iconic locations around the world. He worked across Victoria (including bringing Roxy Pro to Phillip Island), interstate, and on world-tour events in Indonesia and Fiji and programs in New Zealand. “Although I’m a very average surfer, I’ve been fortunate enough to surf some of the world’s most beautiful locations and to have made many wonderful friends – and that’s something special.”

Today Max is ‘retired’ but still works in an advisory capacity and was the contest director of the first Phillip Island QS event in October. He is also setting up a stand-up paddle school and hire in his hometown. “I struggle to find a place nicer to live than Inverloch. There is the inlet, small ocean beach and it’s got a great village feel. I drove in here over 35 years ago and I don’t ever plan to leave.”

His favourite surf spots lie between Kilcunda and home.

“There’s a huge diversity of waves for a surfer of my skill.” His fave wave anywhere in the world? “It’s the Maldives for me.”

After such a stellar career, you’ll still see Max behind the scenes, weathering the wind, rain and sun at contests big and small. “I love it. It’s such a healthy sport to be involved in.

You can be competitive or a lifelong recreational surfer. It’s all about having fun.”

He’s excited for the future of his sport – for the World Surf League and the incorporation of a new degree of professionalism associated with mainstream sport that hasn’t been seen before. “I personally got to be involved in fabulous era when the Dream Tour was evolving, but World Surf League has come in and is taking a new and exciting direction.”

Looking back, Max is grateful for the friendships and great people who supported him: his wife Debbie and two mates Adrian Sorati and Craig Clarke who’ve been there throughout the journey. His career has been less about riding dream waves than making dreams come true. “I remember Nikki van Dijk as a 12-year-old stargazing at the surfers at the Roxy Pro on Phillip Island – and she’s just won her first world tour event. That’s what Surfing Victoria and sports administrators are all about.”

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Raised ON COMMUNITY

Growing up in a small country town, local MP Brian Paynter paints a picture of a childhood filled with sport and paper-runs.

But the life lessons from Pakenham in the 70s made him uniquely suited to life in the political arena.

Dad bought the newsagency in 1970. Back then, Pakenham was a little town and everything revolved around the newsagency. I am one of eight – seven boys and one girl – we were a big part of a small community. We knew everybody, everyone knew us. There was no place to hide. We worked on the front counter from a very young age.

Dad raised us but he was busy running the newsagency.

We liked living in Pakenham. We had our freedom and our independence. We rode down to the shop in the morning for our paper round, raced home for breakfast then rode to school. After school another paper round then football training. Providing we were home by around 6.30pm when Dad arrived he was happy. We were a hard-working family.

Dad set the work ethic and we followed. And the community looked after us. I grew up quite indebted to the Pakenham community for that.

I went to Pakenham High School but it would be fair to say I wasn’t fully committed to learning. Then in Year 10, the light switched on. I asked Dad if I could go to boarding school. We went to an open day at Assumption College boarding school up in Kilmore where Dad had been a student in the 1940’s and the next year I was enrolled. I needed to break the cycle. I

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wouldn’t be here today if I hadn’t made that decision.

I went to university then joined a local accounting firm. It wasn’t long before I was taking roles in the community. For the last 20 years I’ve sought out roles so that I could give back to the Pakenham community, including school council president of the high school, chairman of the Cardinia Foundation, and I’m a life member of Outlook – an adult disability organisation.

I’d been a member of the Liberal party for maybe ten years. I’d supported Russell Broadbent and Ken Smith. Whether you like the politics or not, they are genuinely good people. One thing about both Ken and Russell, although they have both been loyal to the Liberal Party, they have also both been prepared to vote on issues according to their conscience. I followed in their footsteps last month in the Victorian Lower House to vote for Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill.

When Ken announced his retirement from politics I thought right: if I really want to change people’s lives, or my community or improve things – here’s an opportunity.

I shifted to Phillip Island when I was elected. It’s been wonderful. I’d been coming to Phillip Island for summers since

I was a teenager. I was really comfortable with the area. My office is in Wonthaggi and I can walk the streets and feel like I’ve been here forever. I felt instantly comfortable because it was a small town. I like going into shops and saying g’day and developing a relationship with people.

When I approach San Remo and see that water I feel like it’s just a completely new world. I feel relaxed. I’ve learned to surf – not well. I walked into Island Surfboards at Smith’s Beach looking for a cool short board and walked out with a soft top.

Thanks Richard! Phillip Island has got everything. I’ve always been active, but now I can run, walk, surf, ride my mountain bike. It’s the perfect environment.

There’s been a couple of things that really rocked me. I had a very good mate, Kevin, who took his own life, about seven years ago now. That just came out of the blue. Four of us used to meet for breakfast on a Saturday morning every few months. We’d meet at 8am and we’d still be there at 12pm, just talking about anything and laughing. One Monday morning we got the call that Kevin had hung himself. He was struggling with a marriage break-up and his business was struggling with the downturn from the global financial crisis.

Kevin was a lovely caring guy and he wouldn’t have coped well at all with his clients losing money. It made me think about those conversations – we were deeply caring, but we were naïve, absolutely ignorant of the fact that Kevin was having mental health issues. But you need to recognise the signs. I like to think I’m more in tune with it now.

That’s when I became a White Ribbon ambassador. I’m not going to sit by and watch our community treat women in that way and not say anything, or not try to do something about it. These things are going to keep happening unless people start to influence other people’s behaviour, or the community that they live in. I can’t change the world. I can’t change things that happen in the broader community, but I can certainly influence or take a leadership role in my local community. That’s the least I can do. I owe this to my own three lovely daughters.

I approached the Parliament of Victoria and I said we need to become a White Ribbon accredited workplace. It’s not a political statement. This is about leadership. How can we talk about equality and respect for genders when we’re not seen as the leading workplace? We achieved our workplace accreditation in June. And we’re the first parliament in Australia to do that. That was a big achievement.

You’ve got to start with your own community wherever you are, in whatever situation you are in. That’s what I’ve always tried to do – get involved with my own local community.

Make small changes there and just see what ripple effect it might have. You can’t sit back and do nothing.

Four years ago, a dear beautiful friend of mine, Kylie Blackwood, was murdered in Pakenham in her own home.

love where you live!

BRIAN PAYNTER MP YOUR LOCAL MEMBER OF STATE PARLIAMENT Authorised & Edited by Brian Paynter MP, 9 McBride Avenue Wonthaggi 3995.

Tel 03 5672 4755 Email: brian.paynter@parliament.vic.gov.au www.brianpaynter.com.au.

Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications Budget.

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

Baking POWER Nothing evokes fabulous old-fashioned country baking quite like the smell of choc-chip cookies or sponge cake fresh from the oven.

Evonne Redmond has a passion for baking. In an era where television has turned cooking into a competitive sport, it’s delicious to find a dedicated baker who favours flavour over the latest trends.

cooking for the entire family, including four adult men. “There had to be a sweet with every meal. Lunch used to be soup and either baked egg custard, or a rice custard … that’s really when I started baking.”

Quietly-spoken and self-effacing, Evonne doesn’t exactly spruik her cooking skills, describing herself as “a plain, basic cook”. But friends and family are effusive in their praise of her feather-light sponges, yo-yo biscuits, plum puddings and mouth-watering slices.

With a long family history in the kitchen – her mother and grandmother were both keen cooks – she quickly realised that baking was her passion. “I’m not one for main meals. I like the baking side of things. If I see a recipe that I like, I’ll try it. And if it doesn’t turn out right, I’ll try it again and again until I conquer it.”

Growing up on a farm in Nyora, Evonne was always helping in the kitchen. And she has vivid memories of her mother cooking up a storm at Christmas and New Year, when all the relatives would come to visit.

Then, at fifteen, she left school to look after her mother, who was recovering from a major operation: “It was too hard going off to school and then coming home to do the chores and cook all the meals.” As well as nursing her mother, Evonne was responsible for looking after her brothers and sister, and

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Although she eschews all forms of cooking competitions, from entering local shows to watching those popular TV shows, there’s a competitive edge to her baking. “I like the challenge of making things, the creating. My mum could cook beautiful cream puffs and I thought, ‘She’s not going to beat me at that!’ So I practised until I perfected them.”

Her signature dish – an exquisite old-fashioned sponge – was also the result of one-upmanship. “That was one-up on mum

… she couldn’t cook sponges.” Topped with passionfruit icing, its light, mouth-watering loveliness harks back to a bygone era, evoking gingham aprons and smiling children with rosy cheeks.

Given their notoriously temperamental reputation, I grill Evonne to reveal her secrets to the perfect sponge. She laughs. “I think the key is in the way you fold the flour in: You’ve got to do it by hand and use a metal spoon. It’s thinner than a wooden spoon, so you get a finer cut.” She quietly confides another of her tricks – lining the bottom and greasing the sides of the tin – and never washing it!

cycles of family life – Barry’s health scare at 32 and a career change from selling farm machinery to real estate, their three girls growing up and getting married, the arrival of five precious grandchildren – Evonne kept baking.

In fact, she says she’s never more relaxed and content than when she’s in the kitchen. “I like to be on my own and I’m quite happy there doing my own thing.

I’ve had some terrible kitchens, but that doesn’t matter. I can always manage. As long as I’ve got a good stove I’m happy.” These days she has reason to be smiling.

Her recently-renovated kitchen contains top-of-the-line appliances, including a gas-top stove and electric oven.

Topped with passionfruit icing, its light, mouth-watering loveliness harks back to a bygone era …

Evonne left the farm when she married Barry in 1969 (“We’d been together around five years, since I was fifteen”) and moved to Leongatha. They raised three daughters before settling in Meeniyan in the early 90s. And through all the

She’s been known to get up early to whip up a fresh cake and a batch of biscuits before heading off to visit friends: “I don’t >

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like to go anywhere empty-handed”. And while she rates cream-puffs, sponges and burnt-butter biscuits among her best recipes, she is happy to take requests … up to a point.

“I’m getting sick of making vanilla slices, I can tell you that,” she laughingly admits. “They’re not hard … I think it’s just because I’ve made them for so long now. I don’t reckon they ever go out of fashion. Everyone seems to like a vanilla slice.”

She’s also whipped up plum puddings on request. “A few years ago, a week before Christmas, a local lady asked me to make a plum pudding for her. She’s a beautiful cook herself, but she can’t make plum puddings. Ever since then, I’ve been making them for her.

And it’s not just one. She’ll order two or three.” Evonne uses a recipe out of an old WoodleighKernot Red Cross cookbook. “I follow that, but then I’ll put dates or ginger in it. The recipe says grated apple and carrot – and I might throw in apricot.” One Christmas, she cheerfully calculated she knocked out eleven puddings.

Unsurprisingly, Evonne is a keen collector of cookbooks.

“Sometimes I just buy a book because I love the pictures.

I use them as coffee-table books.” She doesn’t have a favourite cook, but is a sucker for old-fashioned recipes. And she likes to play by the rules … at least at the start. “The first time I try something new, I always follow the recipe.”

What does come as a surprise is Evonne’s easy admission that she uses packet mix cakes. “I make an orange cake from a pack, but then I vary the recipe and add things. Where it says 2/3 cup of milk, I might put half a cup and make the rest up with orange juice.

Then I grate in orange rind, or chocolate.” She got the idea from a relative who worked for a popular franchise bakery in Melbourne. “He told me that they never started their cakes from scratch, creaming the butter and sugar and all the rest of it. They just added ingredients to a basic mix. I thought, well, that sounds good.”

… she’s never more relaxed and content than when she’s in the kitchen.

Husband Barry is known to complain loudly about all the delicious treats that head out the door and it’s not hard to feel some sympathy for him. “I don’t bake for Barry and me, but don’t worry, he tells everybody,” laughs Evonne. “He’s always saying, ‘It’s annoying … I see all this beautiful stuff being baked and every time I ask for a taste … it’s gone!’”

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For anyone keen to begin baking, Evonne’s advice is simple.

“Start with something easy and reliable. I know the first sponge cake I made was called a Never-Fail Ginger Fluff.

I like to use 80gm free-range eggs and with butter, milk and eggs, always buy the best quality you can afford.

And don’t over-mix.”

Enrolling for 2020 Year 1- 3 Places Available in 2018

Contact Belinda Manning, 5956 7505 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Phillip Island, 3923

www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

THE SIGN OF GOOD ADVICE C E RT I F I E D F I N A N C I A L P L A N N E R®

WHERE TO FROM HERE?

Providing specialist financial advice in: Retirement Planning Wealth Creation/Investing

Superannuation Life/Personal Insurance

Suite 3/33 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi | Phone: 5672 2205 | Email: enquiry@markfarmerfs.com.au | Web: www.markfarmerfs.com.au MARK FARMER IS AN AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE OF GWM SERVICES LIMITED, AN AUSTRALIAN FINANCIAL SERVICES LICENCEE WITH IT’S REGISTERED OFFICE AT 105-153 MILLER STREET NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2060.

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Banking is more than numbers and interest rates.

Much more!

We know that banking is about more than just profits.

For a Bendigo Community Bank® it’s about helping to create vibrant, thriving communities.

And that’s something that benefits all of us.

So instead of seeing what we can take from people, we see what we can give them. It’s a philosophy we’ve followed for years – and it works.

We return 80% of our profit to the local community.

$1.5 million in sponsorships $753,000 in community grants $590,000 in dividends $2.9 million in total

Cowes Community Bank Branch Shop 1, 209-213 Settlement Road, Cowes. Phone 5952 3383 Grantville & District Community Bank Branch Shop 4, 1503 Bass Highway, Grantville. Phone 5678 8773 San Remo & District Community Bank Branch 103a Marine Parade, San Remo. Phone 5678 5833

1 Roughead Street, Leongatha VIC 3953 T 5662 2327 F 5662 2642 E edney@dcsi.net.au W www.edneysleongatha.com.au

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Bigger than a bank

™

LMCT No 1500

Taste

OF SUMMER All the flavours, fresh produce, incredible views and great locations to enjoy this summer.

And don’t miss The Grape Escape – highlighting outstanding wines from our boutique wineries.

Sweet Life Cafe

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TA S T E O F S U M M E R

ANGEL’S HEALTH FOOD

THE BEACH BOX

BEAND

74 Chapel St, Cowes Call 5952 3398

6 Ramsay Blvd, Inverloch Call 5674 3112

4/157 Marine Pde, San Remo (eatery/store) 132 Graham St, Wonthaggi (roastery/café) Call 0407 717 588

Eco-friendly household items, personal care and books. A huge range of food, including nuts, seeds, legumes, dried fruits, and grains, as well as a wide range of herbs and spices, tahini, honey, cleaning products which can be dispensed to order, and our house-milled peanut butter. Also stock organic meat, fermented foods, fresh bread, and locally sourced free-range eggs, with food options to suit all dietary requirements, and qualified advice to help guide you.

New owners are taking this popular café to new heights. Open 7-days a week for breakfast, lunch and coffee. Great coffee and delicious cakes, muffins, scones and slices – all baked instore. Breakfast options include local free-range eggs, smashed avocado, fruit toast or pancakes, plus fresh fruit juice. For lunch, there’s a great selection of salads, fish and chips, pizza, burgers and wraps. Vegetarian and GF options available.

The new store and roastery has opened in Wonthaggi, giving you twice the chance to enjoy BEANd’s hospitality. Renowned for their fresh roasted coffee and signature Peace Blend, both cafes are also first-rate places for breakfast, lunch or even a quiet cup of tea! The local Wagyu Beef Burger, Avo Avo, fresh salads and BEANd Sangas are firm favourites. Also stocks a fabulous selection of home-made nougat and fudge.

www.angelshealthfoods.com.au

Gift Shop · Wholesale & Supply Store · Organic Grocery Store · Coffee Hut Locally grown produce, organic food and teas, raw foods, whole foods, bulk buy cleaning products, natural treasures, mill your own grains, plants and seeds.

127 Marine Parade, San Remo | 03 5603 3681 | freedomorganicssanremo@gmail.com | www.freedomorganicssanremo.com

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Waterfront Restaurant Phillip Island 1215 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria 3925 hello@thecapekitchen.com.au T 03 5956 7200 thecapekitchen.com.au facebook/thecapekitchen @thecapekitchen thecapekitchen

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TASTE OF SUMMER

THE BLACK SHEEP CAFÉ & WINE BAR 8 Williams St, Inverloch Call 5674 2129 With a fine selection of international and regional wines, and Tapas themed dinners, this is the perfect spot to spend a relaxed and enjoyable evening. Over summer, come and relax on the deck or enjoy regular music on the weekends. The menu changes regularly, with a focus on local, seasonal produce. Lunch and dinner daily, opening at 11.30am. Dinner menu kicks off from 6pm.

THE CAPE KITCHEN 1215 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Call 5956 7200 The stunning view and an inventive menu make this a unique dining experience, focusing on local ingredients and fresh produce. Specialises in beautiful breakfasts and now open for lunch and outside dining. There’s a menu to suit every taste and budget, plus an All-Victorian wine list and beer selection. The Cape Kitchen also hosts special events - ring or email them for details or to join their mailing list.

CAPE WOOLAMAI BAR & BISTRO 1/13-18 Vista Place, Cape Woolamai Call 5956 6313 This busy, friendly local bar and bistro has brand new owners and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.

Meals, cake and coffee, or a drink and tapas in the sunshine. This is the ideal spot to enjoy fabulous, restaurant quality food in a relaxed bistro atmosphere, or come and enjoy the popular nightly happy hour and weekend live music. Open 7 days until late.

www.thecapekitchen.com.au

www.theblacksheepcafewinebar.com

The freshest local seafood on the island.

Seafood straight off the boat. Fresh local produce.

Island grazed beef and lamb. Artisan breads, cakes and ice-creams all made in-house.

17 THE ESPLANADE, COWES VIC. | PH (03) 5952 6226 WWW.HARRYSRESTAURANT.COM.AU

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TASTE OF SUMMER

CHILL BILL

THE CHUTNEY BAR

THE COFFEE COLLECTIVE

17 Korumburra Rd, Wonthaggi Call 0414 172 504

14A William St, Inverloch Call 5674 6999

50-52 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi Call 5672 4555

You’ll feel like an old friend when you walk into this fabulous little café, attached to the Wonthaggi Market. Their revitalized menu includes hearty, nutritious meals (covering all dietary requirements) to eat in or take away. Try their slow-roasted pork belly toastie or a delicious chicken and veggie home-baked pie. Also serving freshly made cold-pressed juice and Proud Mary coffee.

Stay tuned for Salads for the Soul.

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.

Friendly service and a modern industrial setting. Coffee aficionados will love the range of Five Senses house blends on offer with single origin cold brew and filter coffee also available. In the kitchen, the focus is on modern, exciting food. All day menu includes buttermilk hotcakes with lemon curd, berries and strawberry pearls or our customer favourite – avocado smash with cornbread, fresh tomato salsa, chipotle mayonnaise and dehydrated lime.

www.thechutneybar.com.au

www.thecoffeecollective.com.au

LOCAL PRODUCE AT ITS BEST. We offer an extensive range of fresh fruit and vegetables, local products, local and international cheese selection, on-site butchers, a fully stocked deli and bottle shop.

facebook.com/sanremosupermarket 135 Marine Pde, San Remo, VIC 3925. Phone: 5678 5337. Fax: 5678 5756.

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Beand there OR BE SQUARE

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

As the name suggests, BEANd is unapologetically obsessed with coffee.

BEANd is already an institution in San Remo and a favourite destination for coffee and food lovers from across the region. In what can only be good news for the caffeine-obsessed among us, Graeme and Yuki, the husband and wife team behind BEANd, are now bringing their special brand of hospitality to Wonthaggi. Their newly-opened café in Graham Street retains the same focus – specialising in breakfast and lunch

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with beautifully-prepared meals using fresh local produce (the entire menu is available to take away) – while providing the opportunity to expand on their passion for coffee.

That passion has taken the couple around the world (spiritually, if not literally) in search of the best coffee, both in terms of flavour and ethics. Using three or four select exporters, the couple source fresh green coffee beans from

cafe review

Having their own in-house roasters means the coffee served at Beand is �ceptionally fresh.

India, Brazil, Zambia, Uganda, East Timor, Mexico, Kenya, PNG, Ethiopia and Colombia. “We research the farms, get to know the farmers and get samples of all the coffee before we buy,” explains Yuki. “Then we only buy in small quantities, so we get the freshest possible blend.”

The majority of the small green beans they purchase are organic, with fair trade and rainforest alliance certification, and once they arrive the focus turns to roasting, using one of two roasters housed in the Wonthaggi store. Graeme and Yuki’s coffee passion extends to the machines, which Yuki laughingly refers to as ‘our babies’: a vintage1919 Probat Roaster, ideal for roasting small batches of specialty blend, and a bold red Italiano, capable of roasting larger amounts, including BEANd’s Peace Blend.

Having their own in-house roasters means the coffee served at BEANd is exceptionally fresh. They stock a range

of single-point-of-origin beans, as well as their Peace Blend, so customers can find the perfect coffee for their palate.

“Everyone is different, so we encourage our customers to come and try, and find out what they like,” says Yuki. “My personal favourite is Timor but a lot of people like Ethiopia. For someone who likes a full-bodied, milky coffee, I’d recommend trying Colombia or our Peace Blend.”

Australians are passionate and particular about their coffee and it’s this proliferation of coffee connoisseurs that BEANd caters for so brilliantly. “We want to educate people about the many ways to have a coffee,” explains Graham. “There are different ways to drink it, and the different origins have their own unique flavours.” BEANd offers espresso, pour-over, aeropress and cold-brewed coffee. During our visit, my team of coffee-tasters drink their way through a variety of different >

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beans and techniques. The big, bold taste of the Zambia espresso got the thumbs up, as did the aero-press Ethiopia – nominated as the perfect after-dinner coffee.

While BEANd is a Mecca for those obsessed with all things coffee – a range of coffee paraphernalia, as well as bags of fresh-roasted coffee beans is available – this is also a first-rate place for breakfast, lunch or even a quiet cup of tea! Owner/

“We want to educate people about the many ways to have a coffee,” chef Graeme is a maestro in the kitchen (he makes everything from scratch) and the local Wagyu Beef Burger, Avo Avo, fresh salads and BEANd Sangas are firm favourites. You can also indulge your sweet tooth with an extraordinarily fabulous selection of home-made nougat and fudge. And a special shout-out has to go to the friendly staff, who are only too happy to guide you on your coffee odyssey or help you chose the perfect meal.

While each location has its own unique atmosphere and charm, they both share a commitment to great food, good service and fine coffee. From the sea-side bustle of the original San Remo cafe to the welcoming weekday vibe of the new Wonthaggi store, now everyone can enjoy a double-shot of BEANd. BEANd Wonthaggi: open 5 days, Monday – Friday, 8am – 3.30pm.

BEANd San Remo: open 6 days, Thursday – Tuesday, 7am – 4pm.

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Eatery + Fudge + Micro coffee roastery Providing signature blends for cafes and restaurants at wholesale prices

Specialises in coffee, breakfast, lunch and sweets

NG RINGTRADING TRADING TRADING TRADING TRADING TRADINGROASTING ROASTING ROASTING ROASTING ROASTING ROASTINGBLENDING BLENDING BLENDING BLENDING BLENDING BLENDINGGRINDING GRINDING GRINDING GRINDING GRINDING GRINDING PACKAGING PACKAGING PACKAGING PACKAGING PACKAGING PACKAGING BREWING BREWING BREWING BREWING BREWING BREWINGDRINKING DRINKING DRINKING DRINKING DRINKING DRINKING BEANd SAN REMO 4/157 Marine Pde. Open 7am – 4pm, 6 days (closed Wednesday) BEANd WONTHAGGI 132 Graham St. Open 8am – 3.30pm, 5 days (closed Saturday + Sunday) 0407 717 588 email: hello@beand.com.au www.beand.com.au coast 110

Chocolate, Cakes, Coffee, Ice Cream Chocolates, confectionery & Gelato.

Specialising in celebration cakes & desserts.

Summer juices now available.

0409 863 299 @sweetlifecafe3953 sweetlife@dodo.com.au

3 & 11 Bair Street, Leongatha VIC 3953

Cellar door open on weekends 12noon to 5pm, antipasti, local cheeses and other delicious lunch plates and a Roman inspired poetry walk. A unique, unforgettable experience.

Basia Mille “one thousand passionate kisses.”

Visit our luxury apartments,vineyard and olive grove to experience great wine, local food, oils and Gippsland’s warmest hospitality. Play golf on our 9 hole course amongst the vineyard and the olive groves whilst overlooking the magical views of Wilsons Promontory and the islands of Bass Strait.

Basia Mille – A Tarwin Valley Icon: Beautiful, Bountiful, Brilliant.

At Waratah North, off Savages and Mathers Roads, at 1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek Weekend afternoons or by appointment on 0414 295 048. www.basiamille.com.au coast 111

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FREEDOM ORGANICS

THE GATHA FOODSTORE

GOURMET PADDOCK

127 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 5603 3681

1/3 McCartin St, Leongatha Call 5662 5700

2-8 Russell St, Balnarring Call 5983 2559

A treasure trove of organic items.

Fresh vegetables, nuts, grains, whole and ground herbs and spices, flour, oils and organic herbal teas. Vegan and gluten free products available. Bulk cleaning products, hair and body washes, essential oils and organic skincare. A large range of vegetable and herb seeds and seedlings ready to plant, plus a unique selection of crystals and eco-giftware.

This family friendly café specialises in fresh, healthy food that tastes sensational with eat-in or takeaway options. All their dishes are made in-house, including an array of delicious salads, soups, pasta, curries, sandwiches and cakes, making this a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Great coffee, friendly service and parents can relax while kids enjoy the food and craft activities.

We are creating a foodie fellowship by offering real, tasty, fresh food and quality produce. Under one roof, you can grab a coffee, enjoy a delicious meal, relax with a glass of wine and tapas, or grab something easy for dinner. Buy fresh produce to take home from our butcher, fish monger or deli. Sushi, salads and fresh juices also available. Open 7 days from 7am – 11pm.

!

N O O S G N I COM de burgers ma The best hometo Inverloch. are coming

10AM – 9PM, 7 DAYS ALL SUMMER. 16A WILLIAM STREET, INVERLOCH 5674 6555

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www.gourmetpaddock.com.au

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HARRY’S ON THE ESPLANADE 17 The Esplanade, Cowes Call 5952 6226 It’s worth a visit for the view alone. Harry’s has been newly renovated but the menu remains focused on local, natural and authentic produce. Seafood fresh off the boat and Island-grazed beef and lamb are specialties. Artisan breads, cakes and ice-creams are all made at the in-house bakery. Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

IGA SAN REMO 135 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 5678 5337 There is always an impressive array of specials at this popular local supermarket.

But where the store really shines is in their incredible range of gourmet sauces, expansive cheese selection and hydroponic lettuces. They also stock a great range of local wines and products, from fresh vegetables to honey to snap-frozen fresh seafood.

KERNOT FOOD & WINE STORE 1075 Loch-Kernot Rd, Kernot Call 5678 8555 You always get a warm country welcome at this beautiful heritage store.

Mouthwatering woodfired pizza, homemade pies and local produce are highlights of the menu, and there’s also a great local wine-list. The store regularly serves up a fabulous selection of live music. Open Friday and Saturday for dinner till late.

www.harrysrestaurant.com.au

Freshly Ground Peanut Butter Best Price Organics Bulk Dispense Wholefoods & Cleaning Friendly Staff Natural Cosmetics Large Nutritional Range Local Produce Personal Care Organic Sourdough and Speciality Bread

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What’s c

king Vietnamese chicken salad Serves 4 Let poached chicken be your friend. Poach your chicken at the start of the week and you will solve all your last minute ‘what’s for dinner’ dilemmas.

2 cups of poached chicken or use leftover roast or bbq chicken 1 carrot, finely cut into strips or use a julienne peeler 2 cups wombok (Chinese cabbage), finely shaved 1 cup red cabbage, finely shaved ½ cup mint leaves 4 spring onions, finely sliced ½ handful of fresh coriander leaves (optional) 1 long red chilli, de-seeded and finely sliced or diced To Serve A small handful of roasted peanuts A small handful of crispy shallots Dressing 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 1 garlic clove, crushed Shred the chicken and set aside.

photo tamara erbacher

For the dressing, whisk together all of the ingredients or use a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake to combine.

Summer is great for entertaining, but who wants to be inside slaving over the stove for hours? These scrumptious recipes are easy to prepare and wonderful to eat.

Place the carrot, wombok, cabbage, herbs and chilli in a large bowl with the shredded chicken. Pour the dressing over the salad along with half of the peanuts. Toss gently to combine.

Serve topped with the remaining peanuts and crispy shallots.

Recipe by Nellie Kerrison of Relish Mama More delicious recipes at www.coastmagazine.net

Voted as one of the best venues and cooking schools in Melbourne. A great variety of classes to choose from.

Book a class today.

WWW. R ELI S H M AM A.C OM . AU O R P H ONE 0 3 9 5 5 3 4 8 4 6

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KILCUNDA GENERAL STORE

LA CASA SAWTELLIS

3535 Bass Hwy, Kilcunda Call 5678 7390

129 South Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin Call 5998 3837

This friendly café is famous for beautiful breakfasts, great coffee, delicious lunches and fabulous cakes. They only use free-range eggs and chickens, and all ingredients are locally-sourced where possible. Their pastries, sauces and chutneys are all made from scratch. The gift shop showcases sustainable, locallyproduced items and their own range of chutney, chilli jam and beetroot relish.

Open 7 days from 7am.

Authentic la carte Italian dining in a relaxed family-orientated setting. Menu includes wood-fired pizza and burgers, plus great selection of wine and cocktails.

The beautiful outdoor area is perfect for alfresco summer dining and music performances. Fabulous local artwork is on display and Peekaview children’s prints are available for sale. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Thursday to Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. The ideal place to stop on your way to the coast.

LEONGATHA HEALTH, NUTRITION & WHOLEFOODS 21 McCartin St, Leongatha Call 5662 2290 This locally owned health emporium has been operating for 17 years and supplies fresh, certified organic fruit and vegetables.

They also stock a huge range of herbal supplements and healthy proteins with bulk wholefoods of all sizes available.

They keep their customers healthy and happy with the healthiest products and excellent service.

Where there are no strangers ... only friends you’ve yet to meet

• WINE & BEER • MUSIC • DELICIOUS FOOD • LOCAL PRODUCE • WOODFIRED PIZZA • TAKE AWAY

Thurs & Sun 10am – 8pm. Fri & Sat 9am – 10pm featuring local musicians. Sun lunch 12 – 4pm.

1075 Loch-Kernot Rd, Kernot. Phone: 5678 8555

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MANHATTAN IN MORNINGTON

THE OLD PRINT SHOP CAFÉ

THE PALMS

27 Victoria Rd, Loch Call 5659 4455

Cnr Chapel & Steele St, Cowes Call 5952 5858

You will always feel welcome at this cafe in the main street of Loch. Relax, and take some ‘time out’ to enjoy a coffee, tea or freshly prepared food. Build a breakfast (available all day) or select from a choice of pies, pastries, schnitzels, soup, focaccia or vegie or meat burgers. There is also a fine selection of house made biscuits, scones and cakes. Gluten free and vegan options are available.

This restaurant and cocktail bar in the Kaloha Comfort Resort in Cowes boasts a seasonal a la carte menu with an emphasis on local produce. With over 20 years’ experience, chef Tim Stephens’ passion for seafood is reflected in the menu.

Dishes include vegetarian options and excellent local beef, so there’s something for all the family.

PAUL THE PIEMAN

LONE PINE BISTRO

PORTER REPUBLIC

5 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Call 5674 1722

Phillip Island RSL, 225-243 Thompson Ave, Cowes Call 5952 1004

117 Marine Pde, San Remo Call 5678 5524

55 Barkly Street (corner Barrett Lane), Mornington Call 5976 4867 A family owned and operated restaurant evoking the style and flavour of Manhattan’s Little Italy. Traditional and modern Italian cuisine – fresh seafood, pizza, pasta and desserts. All meals are prepared from scratch, including housebaked bread and fresh pasta. Enjoy lamb, beef or seafood from the Josper charcoal oven. Extensive list of local and imported beer and wine, plus spirits.

www.thepalmsphillipisland.com.au

www.manhattaninmornington.com.au

Much like the delicious breads they bake daily, Inverloch’s Paul the Pieman has given the bakery a thoroughly satisfying makeover. It’s the same friendly personal service with a mouth-watering range of bread, cakes and award-winning pies.

Trends come and go with gourmet baking but Paul the Pieman has a reputation built on freshness and quality with loyal customers from the region, Melbourne and the Peninsula.

Open 7 days fom 7am. www.paulthepieman.com

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High quality, affordable dishes including Gippsland grass-fed beef, tasty parmas, and the Summer Lunch Bowl from the new summer menu. Premium wines (Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc, Cape Schanck by T’Gallant Rose), Pimms, Mojita and Canadian Club and dry all on tap. Newly refurbished undercover outdoor dining area, The Terrace, launched in December. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Gluten free, vegetarian, seniors and children’s options (plus fun kids play area). Book on line at www.phillipislandrsl.com.au

A popular local hangout, this kid-friendly café has fabulous coffee and a great selection of loose leaf tea. The menu includes pulled-pork quesadillas and a variety of different salads on display in the deli cabinet. There are plenty of sweet treats and fabulous home-baked muffins, as well as fresh smoothies and iced coffee.

Lots of GF options available.

Mon – Fri open from 6.30am.

Weekends from 7am.

Fabulous foodie FELLOWSHIP Mornington Peninsula’s Gourmet Paddock is a one-stop shop for fresh food and quality produce, establishing itself as the ultimate destination for food lovers and bon vivants.

When Gourmet Paddock opened its doors in late October, word quickly spread that something unique and exceptional had been created. With stunning décor, including sculptural hanging lights, a spiral wine rack and light-filled gable ceilings, the expansive building combines a restaurant, cafe, deli, wine store and fresh food shops under the one roof. This mind-blowing combination of services has one vital thing in common – an uncompromising commitment to quality, real and tasty food.

Feel like eating out? Gourmet Paddock caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or a quick coffee, cold-pressed juice, salad or sushi. Indulge in a dessert or share some tapas with friends while browsing the extensive wine list, featuring Australian and international wines, along with some of the Peninsula’s finest.

Too tired to cook or just fancy a night in? Gourmet Paddock offers Take Away and their Dine at Home menu means you can order online and pick-up your delicious meal on your way home.

Keen to cook? You’ll find an astounding array of gourmet delights at the deli counter, from international and local cheese, to antipasto, sauces, oils and fresh bread. The in-house artisan butcher stocks the finest dry-aged and hand cut quality meat from the Peninsula and beyond.

Pick up a dozen free-range eggs, or visit the fishmonger and select from their finest array of fresh seafood.

Gourmet Paddock has one aim: to create a foodie fellowship based on a common love for exceptional quality food. Stop by to see what everyone is talking about – you won’t be disappointed.

Open daily from 7am – 11pm. www.gourmetpaddock.com.au

GOOD FOOD LIVES HERE… 2/8 Russell Street, Balnarring, Victoria, 3926

|

03 5983 2559

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dine out

WE’RE MAD FOR

Manhattan A slice of New York’s Little Italy right on our doorstep – crossing the threshold of Manhattan in Mornington feels like stepping into a different world.

Just a short walk from the hustle of Main Street, this familyowned Italian restaurant combines old-world charm with a passion for fresh food and great service. While there’s a distinctly retro approach to the décor – polished dark wooden floors, tables and cross-back chairs, glittering chandelier spheres and framed vintage European posters – the food is a contemporary take on classic Italian flavours.

Like the New York precinct that its moniker pays homage to, the restaurant transposes the traditions of Italy and captures the warmth and authenticity that Italian cuisine is famous for. All the food is made in-house so you won’t find any prepackaged, generic flavours here. Not only is fresh bread baked daily, but the kitchen team also makes its own ice-cream, dips and fresh pasta … and even marinate their own olives.

Keen to fully immerse ourselves, we opted for a leisurely lunch to enjoy a full-bodied Italian experience. There is a great selection of entrées and shared plates and if you have trouble deciding, the popular Tutti Gusti Platter gives you a taster of most of the items on the menu. In an effort to pace ourselves,

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we decided to order something smaller – Polenta Fritta, house polenta chips served with a gorgonzola sauce. It’s not hard to see why this is a Manhattan favourite. A crunchy shell encases delicious pillowy-soft insides and for an extra dollop of decadence, you can dunk the chip into the thick, sharpflavoured gorgonzola sauce.

The old saying goes, ‘when in Rome …’ so of course we order pizza, pasta and a salad. But we couldn’t resist the chance to try something from the Josper Grill as well.

I honestly think home-made pasta is one of life’s great indulgences, and the Fresh Pappardelle didn’t let me down.

Mixed with local asparagus, tomatoes, prosciutto and fresh chilli, it is simply delicious. The asparagus has a smoky flavour (courtesy of the Josper charcoal oven) and the crisp, salty prosciutto is counterbalanced perfectly by slices of sweet, fresh tomato. Rather than blending everything into a sea of sauce, the individual ingredients swirl around the pasta and that little hint of chilli leaves a warm feel in your mouth. >

... it’s a fabulously indulgent way to eat ice-cream.

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

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Our Pizza Prosciutto Crudo is a clear example of ‘less-is-more’.

Beautifully presented, it is simply premium prosciutto, fresh buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil leaves topped with shaved parmesan – and it’s great. The tomato sauce is made in-house, as is the pizza base, which manages to be soft yet firm, and beautifully thin and crisp in the centre. Full marks for the prosciutto florets that look like roses – almost too good to eat.

dessert selection is way too impressive to ignore. The Italian Ciambelle (Italian doughnuts) are little cushions of joy, sprinkled with cinnamon, drizzled with Nutella and served with home-made ice cream and strawberries! We also ordered a Gelato Affogato. A shot of espresso and Frangelico (a hazelnut liqueur) poured over home-made vanilla ice cream creates a swirl of flavours and contrasts – it’s a fabulously indulgent way to eat ice-cream.

The care and pride that goes into the food is evident in every dish.

Accompanying our pizza and pasta is a Tuscan-inspired Panzenella Salad.

I loved the mix of colours – vibrant orange and red tomatoes, green cucumber and basil, purple onions … and it tastes as good as it looks. Mixed through with red wine vinegar, virgin olive oil and roasted ciabatta croutons then topped with goat’s cheese, this is irresistible.

Our final main meal, the Lamb Backstrap is a perfect showcase for the smoky goodness that comes from the Josper, a combination of charcoal oven and grill. A prime cut of thinly sliced lamb is served on a medley of red onion, capsicum, eggplant and zucchini with a minty yoghurt sauce on the side. Lightly charred on the outside, plump and pink in the middle, the lamb is wonderfully tender, while the marinated vegetables are infused with a delicate smoky flavour and retain a hint of crispness.

After such an incredible meal, the sensible decision would be to go for a brisk walk along the beach. But the Manhattan

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This really is a family restaurant in every sense, not just because it is run by a brother and sister team. When we arrived, we were greeted like old friends. The care and pride that goes into the food is evident in every dish and the relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect place for a family get-together. Combining the rustic charm of the Italian country-side with New York sophistication, Manhattan in Mornington has created something really special.

Manhattan in Mornington is open from 11am for brunch, lunch and dinner every day, except Wednesday and Thursday (open from 4pm dinner only). Live jazz on Wednesdays.

Please call to reserve a table. Bookings essential on Friday and Saturday nights. Group bookings welcome and the “Uptown” private dining area is available for private functions.

TASTE OF SUMMER

A Little Italy in Mornington.

Manhattan specialises in traditional and modern Italian cuisine encompassing everything Mediterranean from fresh seafood, pizzas and pastas to specialty entrées, soups and desserts.

55 Barkly St, Mornington VIC 3931

Phone: (03) 5976 4867

www.manhattaninmornington.com.au

Introducing the Terrace at Phillip Island RSL.

RELAXED GET-TOGETHERS

CASUAL DINING

SERVICE AT YOUR TABLE

WINES FROM PURPLE HEN

M – S 9am – late, Sun 10am – late 225 Thompson Ave, Cowes | 5952 1004 info@pirsl.com.au | www.phillipislandrsl.com.au coast 121

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RACV INVERLOCH

SAIGON MAGGIE

SWEET LIFE CAKES

70 Cape Paterson Inverloch Rd Call 5674 0000

Shop 8/209-213 Settlement Rd, Cowes Call 5900 0795

11 Bair St, Leongatha Call 0409 863 299

In a stunning location, with spectacular views across Anderson Inlet, this is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal with family or friends. Radius restaurant is the ideal setting for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and offers an impressive local wine selection. We also cater for special occasions and large group bookings. In Zenith Lounge, enjoy all day dining and daily happy hour, with live music on Fridays. There really is something for everyone at RACV.

Tucked away off the main drag, this tiny café is big on flavor. Specialising in traditional Vietnamese dishes including Pho, Tomyum soup, spring rolls, wontons, BBQ pork skewers and rice noodle salads. A great range of stir fries and most dishes have beef, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetarian options. Also do take-away. Open from 11am – 8.30pm every day except Tuesday and until 9pm Fridays and Saturdays.

Sweet Life Cakes is a locally owned family business specialising in whole cakes and desserts for all occasions. Catering for those planning small gatherings or large events, orders taken and walk-ins welcomed. The edible cake toppers that they create and print have been a real hit, with their passion for design going into each edible image.

The cake shop is the second Sweet Life store in Leongatha, located just two doors away from their cafe.

www.racv.com.au/inverloch

FO R A LL THE FAMILY Just minutes from Phillip Island’s most famous beach.

Cafe and bar open from 6am serving breakfast, lunch, tapas and dinner every day.

Friendly service, live music on weekends and Happy Hour every day 13-18 Vista Place | 5932 0620

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Paul the pieman SCOOPS AWARDS It’s an Inverloch institution that has Melbournians gladly making a day trip to stock up on some of Australia’s best pies and pastries.

Much like the delicious breads it bakes daily, Inverloch’s Paul the Pieman has given the bakery a thoroughly satisfying makeover.

It’s a homey place with communal tables and comfortable sofas for coffee and cake catch-ups. The same, friendly personal service awaits.

The brand new cakes and pastries counter is a feast for the eyes and a party for the taste buds. Craving something sweet? Nothing compares to a hand-made cake or pastry. The frostings are fluffier, the fillings are finer and the chocolate is simply divine. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional pastry like an Almond Croissant or classic Chocolate Chip Cookie, or a trendier Salted Caramel Ganache Tart or White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake, they’re all baked fresh daily. Paul the Pieman fast-tracks any sweet tooth satisfaction.

Celebrated as of one of Australia’s best bakeries – winning 9 medals from 9 entries for specialty pies and sausage rolls at this year’s national Great Australian Pie Competition – Paul the Pieman has added some great new flavours to the gourmet menu. Summer looks a whole lot brighter with their Beef Wellington sausage roll, not only winning gold, but was 2nd outright in the whole Gourmet Sausage roll section. New tantalising pie varieties this season include a Range of Vegetarian Pies, as well as introducing new flavours in Minted Lamb, Choc Chilli Beef, Chicken & Leek, Beef & Guinness Pies. Paul The Pieman now catering for most tastes.

To guarantee you don’t miss out, arrive at 7am when the doors open, just as the pies, cakes and breads come piping hot out of the oven!

The family-owned business has made a name for itself through its retail and bakery awards. Trends come and go with gourmet baking, but it’s quality that Paul the Pieman prides itself on. This staple of the Gippsland and Bass Coast region, with a tradition and ambience strong enough to draw loyal customers from Melbourne and the Peninsula, continues to deliver the good.

9 medals from 9 entries for specialty pies and sausage rolls at the 2017 National Great Australian Pie Competition.

Finalist in 2017 Bass Coast Business Awards.

5 A’Beckett Street Inverloch. Open daily 7am-5pm (except Christmas and Boxing Days)

www.paulthepieman.com.au coast 123

TASTE OF SUMMER

Set the scene FOR SUMMER The RACV Inverloch resort is located just 3km out of town, along the Cape Patterson Road. The spectacular property provides the perfect setting for a summer season dining experience that is completely unique to the region.

With extraordinary, floor-to-ceiling views across Anderson Inlet, your arrival at the resort will set the scene for an exceptional and memorable visit. Pop in for a quick breakfast before taking in the Bass Coast sights for the day, or relax into a delicious, leisurely lunch with friends and sample wines from some of our favourite Gippsland producers. The Radius restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, and Zenith Lounge is the perfect location for a drink with friends whilst enjoying the view.

There really is something for everyone this summer, at RACV Inverloch Resort: • $25 Burger and Beer lunch deal (choose from 5 different gourmet burgers – every day from 12 – 3pm) • Gourmet Gippsland buffet lunch on Sundays (fantastic for large group bookings and special occasions) • Monday night roast carvery buffet dinner (just $29) • All day Devonshire tea, tapas and drinks in Zenith Lounge • Live music every Friday from 4.30pm • Daily Happy Hour with $5 drinks from 5pm

Our professional and friendly staff will ensure that your visit to the resort will be one of the absolute highlights of your stay in Inverloch.

For more details about upcoming events, or to make a reservation, please call 5674 0000.

Savour the flavours, and the view With new menus each season, delicious weekly buffets, all day dining, Devonshire teas, and stunning coastal views, there’s something for everyone at Radius restaurant and Zenith Lounge, RACV Inverloch Resort.

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Shop 1, 50-52 McBride Avenue Wonthaggi M – F 7am – 3pm Sat 7:30am – 2pm Sun Closed www.thecoffeecollective.com.au

Instagram exhibition

Photographers Warren and Maria Reed will be showcasing the best of the coast Instagram Images.

Photographic prints for sale – framed and ready to go.

5 December 2017 to January 2018 at Coffee Collective, 50 – 52 McBride AvenueWonthaggi. All enquiries photos@coastmagazine.net

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grape THE

ESCAPE

Come share some of our favourite drops ...

Dirty Three Wines

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THE GR APE ESCAPE

DIRTY THREE WINES

BASIA M I LLE

BELLVALE WINE

2016 Pinot Grigio Di Clodiae $55

2016 Pinot Noir $25

This delicious white, with its touch of chardonnay, has big apple and pear fruit and fine acidity. Beautiful green apple and lemon palate, it’s a white to be enjoyed and respected.

Fruit for this wine is sourced from our dry grown high-density vineyard in South Gippsland.

Traditional and modern wine-making techniques are maintained, giving this wine a distinct sense of place.

Dirt 1. One of Three new “Dirt Series” Pinot’s from Dirty Three Wines. Recently awarded in the top five wines at the Australian Pinot Noir Challenge, it’s from Berrys Creek Vineyard where the soils are red, deep and fertile. Very limited production.

95 Forresters Lane, Berrys Creek 0412 541 098 – Cellar door by appointment www.bellvalewine.com.au

64 Cashin St, Inverloch (03) 56 06 8128 Email lisa@dirtythreewines.com.au

1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek (03) 5687 1453. www.basiamille.com.au

2016 “Dirt 1” Pinot Noir $55

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THE GR APE ESCAPE

LUCI NDA ESTATE

PURPLE HE N VI NEYARD & WI NERY

2015 Premium Pinot Noir $30

2016 Pinot Noir $32

Grown in red volcanic soils of South Gippsland, a wine with layers of flavours, perfumed red fruits on the nose and palate, sweet fruit, five spice and fine tannins.

Our Pinot Noirs have consistently won wine show medals and trophies. They are renowned for varietal clarity, lifted bouquet and supple tannins. This wine is consistent to that form.

108 Parr St. Leongatha 0417 337 270. www.lucindaestate.com.au

96 McFees Rd, Rhyll (03) 5956 9244. www.purplehenwines.com.au

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5things Sandy Point WE WE LOVE LOVE ABOUT ABOUT

SILENCE IS GOLDEN Drown out the roar of the crowd. Kilometres of unspoilt beaches and an expanses of sand that ripples like desert-dunes or an alien landscape provide the perfect place to hear yourself think.

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5things Sandy Point WE LOVE ABOUT

BIRDS-EYE VIEW From the entrance of Shallow Inlet through to Waratah Bay, a pristine surf beach runs for 15 kilometres.

GONE FISHING Launch your boat straight off the beach or cast a line in the surf – Sandy Point is renowned for its whiting, snapper and flathead.

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BREAK THE DRIVE On your way to Sandy Point, stop off for a leisurely lunch at a local winery.

CATCH THE SUNRISE The Waratah Bay Surf Lifesaving Club is the perfect vantage point to catch the sun rising over the beach. It’s worth the early start, we promise.

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed

The Life of Kay Retiring to Phillip Island was meant to be a time to wind down and relax for Denis and Kay Setches. Instead, Kay is facing one of the toughest challenges of her life.

Kay Setches has fought and won many battles in her life. Breaking through the glass ceiling in politics was nothing compared to her current struggle to adjust to life without her beloved soulmate and husband Denis.

A former MP and co-founder of EMILY’s list, Kay is used to moving political mountains, but today she says her biggest challenge is to get through this year. “I’m deeply in mourning. I’ve got a broken heart,” she says matter-of-factly of the loss of her husband of over fifty years. After having a holiday home on Phillip Island since the 1990s, she is now a permanent resident and her island home is playing a healing role in her grief; she has kept up a cracking pace since Denis died and been a key driver of the Phillip Island Literary Festival while remaining involved in the Labor Party and issues such as voluntary assisted dying.

You can take the girl out of Collingwood but you can’t take Collingwood out of the girl, so they say. Born in 1944, Kay arrived in troubled times. Her father, a waterside worker, and mother – who worked in the local boot factory – were concerned not only about simply surviving, but about raising a child when the future was so uncertain. Her mother also suffered from a mental illness at a time when there was no recognition of the condition, or provision of services.

“It was a very tough place to grow up. I loved it, though,” says Kay. “There was an acceptance of people where there usually would not be.” When her mother and father were at work, a neighbour cared for Kay. “She was a lesbian, and shot her lover in the street. That started a three-day ruckus in Collingwood: when the police

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came, no one would speak under any circumstances.”

The very next week Kay was back in her care and life went on.

Football was the one uniting force. Everyone would go to the game – or if you weren’t there, Kay recalls, you could hear the roar of the crowd at the ground echoing through the streets. “It was just the loveliest feeling on Saturday night when Collingwood won. Johnson Street would be abuzz and the fish-and-chip and Chinese shops would do a roaring trade. People would get ten shillings worth of chips and two pickled onions and the Sporting Globe would sell out in minutes.” When Collingwood lost, the streets were deserted.

At fourteen, with no money coming into the house, Kay had no choice but to look for work. She wasn’t sad to leave the Collingwood Girls School of Domestic Arts where she had four ‘classes’ of laundry and only one period of science a week. The man at the Commonwealth Employment Service was nonplussed by the feisty teenager and said the only job he had was as a salesgirl at Georges in Collins Street.

In her freshly-dyed black clothes, she took her place behind the Ladies Neckwear Department counter and gained a direct insight into what she describes as “the other side of the world”. Things would go out on approval for weeks at a time and then be returned by customers from the wealthy eastern suburbs. “A stole came back with racing tickets still in it. I asked my supervisor what to do and she said to shake it out and put it back on the rack. That’s when I knew some people could have everything and others had

Thanks to Kay and her colleagues, there is now a benchmark – in Victoria and nationally – of 50 per cent female representation in Parliament by 2025

to struggle for the food in their mouths.” The revelation didn’t make her envious – just highly political. “I was already heading that way on issues – domestic violence in Collingwood was like a sport, and mental illness was rife.”

When she met Denis, her father wouldn’t let them marry until she was nineteen: she was married one month before her nineteenth birthday. Vicki was born 13 months later and son Earl two years after that. “I was a baby having babies. I was very mature, but life was a terrible struggle.”

Denis’s parents helped convince the local State Savings Bank manager to give the newlyweds a forty-year mortgage to buy a house in Croydon for £3,395. Croydon was cheap though it had no roads or services, which further motivated Kay’s political nature and sense of justice. The other issues that riled her were discrimination and violence against women, which she experienced firsthand working in a women’s refuge and having various jobs to make ends meet.

She and Denis joined the Labor Party in 1972 in the whirlwind effort to get the Whitlam government elected. The couple >

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worked as volunteers and office-bearers before the seat of Ringwood came up in the 1982 Victorian election and Kay was asked to stand. “I couldn’t have been more shocked – they may as well have asked me to be an astronaut! But Denis was already a campaign manager of some distinction, so I said, ‘Let’s have a go and have some fun’.” They ran a campaign which she describes as ‘all care and no responsibility’ and in 1982 she was elected into a parliament with only one other ALP woman, Pauline Toner. “It was the most frightening, exciting, exhilarating, intoxicating, horrific thing I had ever done.”

Elected to Cabinet in 1988, she went into the election on the platform of an Alpine National Park, protection for wilderness and getting the mining out of National Parks and reserves. The Alpine National Park had been on the cards since 1959 and success seemed impossible until fate played a hand. When Pauline Toner died suddenly, the resulting by-election was fought and won on conservation issues. “The bills got through Cabinet and by five pm all our conservation policy was through. That’s what happens in politics – you have to fight it out. It was bittersweet, but the victory was for Pauline.”

Kay admits she didn’t even know where the parliament was – she’d thought it was at the Treasury building. But that innocence was soon lost. “A whole re-working of the human being takes place when you enter politics. You become very knowing and understanding of so much more than you could ever think of under other circumstances.

You know a little about a thousand things. Enough to be dangerous,” she laughs.

In her next portfolio of Health and Childcare, Kay closed all institutions for the intellectually disabled, including Caloola in Sunbury. Kay achieved it all by keeping her eye on the prize and knowing that someone had to do something about the terrible situations people were in, and that the buck stopped with her.

The task was to hold the seat of Ringwood no matter what, and she discovered that her A-type personality was perfect for the role. “I was always marginal, and the pressure never stopped for a quarter of a second.” But she always had nagging doubts.

“I kept thinking, ‘What the hell am I doing here? I left school at fourteen, I have no education, I’ve had no preparation.’ It was terribly frightening. The men used to shout at me and call me ‘Checkout Chick’ and that hurt me deeply.”

At fourteen, with no money coming into the house, Kay had no choice but to look for work

Confused, she spoke to a friend who suggested that she simply look at everything that came into parliament from the perspective of how it might affect women. “That’s all I needed. I now had a job description. I pulled my pants up and created the Women’s Affairs Bill Committee and we had free rein to review everything: IVF, rape, re-training police to deal with domestic violence. There were quite a few feminists in the Cain/Kirner government and we worked together. When people described us as formidable I’d just laugh and say we were better than nothing,” she recalls.

Everyone maps out their own road in politics. “You can be as lazy or as unbelievably busy and reforming as you want to be.”

She describes her female colleagues as ‘spectacular’ and says their united force initiated many major reforms in areas such as IVF and women’s health services.

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When the party was defeated in 1992, Kay continued her fight. “Many of the women were out as they were in marginal seats: we had to have affirmative action to preselect women as MPs. Joan Kirner and I took on the factions and the warlords. They couldn’t touch me as my career was over, and Joan was the leader of the opposition.

We were unstoppable, formidable and successful.”

Thanks to Kay and her colleagues, there is now a benchmark – in Victoria and nationally – of fifty per cent female representation in Parliament by 2025, with the current figure at forty-four per cent across the country.

Joan Kirner, Julia Gillard, Kay and many others then set up EMILY’s List in Australia – a network of ALP and non-ALP women who work to ensure gender equality in politics.

“It’s not just about percentages; it’s about the meritorious contribution women are making, showing their true skill and being deserving of their position.”

After running such a fearless race at breakneck speed, she admits she now relaxes more and even lets a few things go through to the keeper. She enjoys peaceful moments with her beloved cats Baxter and Sushi and her poodle-cross rescue dog. Reflecting on her extraordinary life, she says: “I always had a strong sense of justice. The energy I had, combined with my catch-cry of ‘somebody’s got to do something’ kept me going.

It brought a lot of sadness, but someone had to do it.”

Waste not wasted.

Thank you.

By embracing the new 3-bin system you’ve diverted organic waste away from landfill and onto farms, and reduced the amount of kerbside rubbish by 80%. Best of all, you’ve done it with a less than 1% contamination rate. This is a fantastic result.

In just six weeks your organic rubbish goes from your kitchen bin to the fields of a Gippsland farm.

For more information head to basscoast.vic.gov.au/organics

Bass Coast Shire Council, 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi,VIC 3995 | PO Box 118, Wonthaggi,VIC 3995 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211 | basscoast@basscoast.vic.gov.au | www.basscoast.vic.gov.au

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An environmental MILESTONE

This year, West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA), celebrates its 20th Anniversary.

WGCMA CEO, Martin Fuller, said the organisation, staff, partners and community had a lot to be proud about over the last 20 years.

“We’ve definitely matured as an organisation,” said Mr Fuller.

“We’re nimble, adaptable and able to respond to community and environmental needs well. It is really pleasing to see how the organisation, along with our partners and landowners have been able to quite literally change the landscape.

“By working with landholders to remove weeds and willows, and to fence and revegetate rivers and creeks, we are seeing huge results in water quality and bank stability.”

Over the last 20 years more than 2300 kilometres of fencing has been constructed, 5600 hectares of weeds controlled and almost three and a half million trees planted.

“The numbers paint an impressive picture, but it is when you see how a landscape has been transformed that you see the true outcomes of the work done,” continued Mr Fuller.

“We have a number of amazing projects that demonstrate this, including the transformation of Heart Morass near Sale from degraded farmland to what is now an 1800-hectare wetland complex. Silcocks Hill near Corner Inlet is transforming before our very eyes as we watch the trees begin to grow. This is changing over-cleared farm land that was slipping into the rivers and ocean into a treed gully that is holding firm.

“Great tracts of land have been treated for pests high up in the catchment as part of our Alpine Peatlands project and rare

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wildflowers have been found and protected as part of the Red Gum Grassy Woodlands projects.

“We’ve run education sessions with kids, supported our Waterwatch volunteers and hundreds of Landcarers.”

Over the years, water for the environment released at key times in the Thomson, Latrobe and Macalister rivers has helped trigger fish migration, improved the condition of bankside vegetation and helped other vulnerable and endangered species.

“While we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved with our partners and community, this is no time to sit back and believe that the job is done. As a community, we face very real environmental challenges, including how we manage the impacts of climate change, how we can support our farming community to provide enough food for our growing populations and how we can protect Gippsland’s unique natural environment now and in the future.

“We are well placed to support our community and will continue to advocate for funding and support to implement projects that improve biodiversity, and protect vegetation and our waterways for years to come.”

For more information on these projects and many others visit www.wgcma.vic.gov.au. WGCMA is proud to be helping ensure catchment health, productivity and liveability now and into the future.

summer

it’s all about the house

CP Developments

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BESPOKE HOMES. QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP. PASSIONATE BUILDERS.

We build beautiful homes. We build great relationships. And, we take all the hard work out of your hands so that you can enjoy the process. Talk to us about how our experienced team can create your beautiful new home, extension or renovation.

One-of-a-kind. Your home. Our service.

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H

MASTER

B LDE R

SOUT

ST

UI

EA

OF THE YEAR 2015

0428 598 237 | www.sjvuillerminmasterbuilders.com.au | svuillermin@bigpond.com coast 139

Your place - your time.

1 ROSS STREET, MORNINGTON. WELCOME@THEWELLNESSMANOR.COM PH: 5976 8791 WWW.THEWELLNESSMANOR.COM THEWELLNESSMANOR THEWELLNESSMANOR

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CREATING SOME OF THE FINEST HOMES IN THE COUNTRY.

ARCHITECT: EDITION OFFICE, FITZROY, VIC PHOTOGRAPHER: BENJAMIN HOSKING.

This incredible Fish Creek home was built by Trease Builders with our team of skilled trades men and women. The home’s two Australian House awards sit proudly alongside Trease Builders state and national titles, including “Australian Custom Built Home of the Year and “Australian Home of the Year”.

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AUSTRALIAN “HOUSES AWARDS 17“ WINNER - NEW HOUSE OVER 200M2 JOINT WINNER - SUSTAINABILITY. FROM THE HOUSES AWARDS JURY: “BUILDING A SIZABLE PROJECT WITH A HIGH LEVEL OF QUALITY AND DETAIL ON A REL ATIVELY MODEST BUDGET IS A SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT IN ITSELF.“

91 WHITELAW STREET

PO BOX 87

MEENIYAN, VIC, 3956

PH

03 5664 0118

INFO@TREASEBUILDERS.COM.AU

TREASEBUILDERS.COM.AU

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

Small measures BIG RESULTS

The opportunity to build an 8-star rated home in Cape Paterson has changed TS Constructions’ approach to building.

At The Cape Ecovillage, Cutlers – a three bedroom, single storey house – is on display. Designed by Beaumont Concepts and built by TS Constructions, Cutlers provides the opportunity for interested home-buyers to experience a truly eco-friendly house.

Cape Paterson local and Cutlers builder, Tony O’Connell said hundreds of people have visited the home. With passive solar design, substantial insulation, windows strategically placed to capture cooling breezes and thermal mass to moderate the internal temperature, it impresses everyone who sees it, particularly when they hear it has an annual electricity bill of just $500.

As well as outstanding energy efficiency, the polished concrete slab floors, pressed-earth feature walls in the living room, angled ceilings, doubled glazed windows and stylish Caesarstone benchtops combine to create an elegant home.

The house also had a big impact on its builder. Tony says TS Constructions’ building practices have changed significantly since working on Cutlers. “I look at a product now not only from a price point, but also for its potential for ongoing health problems and where it’s been sourced from. Now we’re building a 9.2 star display home at the Cape.”

All the materials in Cutlers were selected based on environmental, health and energy-efficiency considerations.

Low-formaldehyde E0 board was used for the all architraves, skirting and cabinetry in the house. Eco-friendly zero-VOC

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paint was used for all the internal walls and ceilings, while the timber for the wall frames was certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Even the plasterboard included recycled content and are certified by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA).

One of the biggest lessons Tony took from the build was just how much the energy-efficiency of a building could be improved by small measures across a range of areas. “There aren’t a lot of big ticket things,” said Tony. “It’s an amalgamation of small, incremental change that goes into making it a much better product. When you walk into a house that’s been closed up for a couple of days in winter, and you don’t need to turn the heater on, that’s when it really sinks in.”

Shaping the Built Environment.

Builders of distinctive, designer homes.

TS Constructions create living spaces that are stunning, innovative and finished to perfection. Our aim is to work with owners and designers to develop and build exactly to your requirements.

03 5672 2466 admin@tsconstructions.com.au www.tsconstructions.com.au coast 143

GET READY FOR A LONG WET SUMMER!

Family owned and run. Victoria’s largest fibreglass swimming pool manufacturer.

Huge range of shapes and sizes. All with 25 years structural guarantee.

Servicing the Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, Bass Coast and South East Melbourne.

1300 WeDoPools | 0438 736 918 | nigel@conquestpools.com.au | www.conquestpools.com.au coast 144

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

A new stage OF LIFE

A stroll along the beach before work; a “board” meeting at lunchtime on a surfbreak; an organic veggie harvest from the community garden for dinner.

Life at the award-winning Cape development in Cape Paterson is something special. The first wave (pardon the pun) of residents have moved in, and whether bumping into new neighbours while walking the dog, sharing fresh organic produce at the community garden or exchanging cooking tips at Passata Day, there is plenty to do and love at The Cape.

An hour and forty-five-minute drive from Melbourne, overlooking pristine Bass Strait, with stunning views to Wilsons Promontory, Mt Oberon and Cape Woolamai, the Cape sits on a beautiful 40-hectare site with entrancing rises, swales, wetlands and walking paths. “The Cape is unlike other new estates, firstly because of the amazing environmental performance of the houses, and secondly because more than 50 per cent of the site is beautiful open space,” said The Cape’s Director, Brendan Condon.

Other attributes include walk-on access to safe swimming and surfing beaches, high-speed NBN with optic fibre to each home, and many homes with electric vehicle charge points.

The Age newspaper described The Cape as “Victoria’s most sustainable community” because of the estate’s environmental performance, the community garden and network of walking and cycling tracks. All homes are designed with passive solar principles, are highly energy and water efficient and comfortable all year with minimal heating and cooling.

Subsequently, lucky residents can see annual energy bills under $500 per home. One of the newest additions, Victoria’s first ten-star home, has annual energy bills of just $3.

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The Cape has a number of competitively priced lots in its most recent stage release for first home buyers or downsizers, only a stone’s throw from some of the premium “family heirloom” view-line lots, but demand has been strong. A dozen lots sold on the sales launch day for Stage 2 thanks in part to the growing list of high-quality builders and renowned architects showing off their work onsite.

Feel free to visit The Cape display homes on weekends between 12 and 4 pm, or find out more at www.liveatthecape.com.au

“VICTORIA’S MOST SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY” - THE AGE

HOME TO VICTORIA’S FIRST 10 STAR HOUSE

STAGE 2

SELLING FAST LAND FROM $150K HOUSE & LAND FROM $395K

VISIT WWW.LIVEATTHECAPE.COM.AU OR CALL PBE REAL ESTATE ON 5674 8044 coast 147

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

Inlet idyll

With the beautiful waters of Anderson Inlet on the doorstep, create your dream lifestyle at Broadbeach Inverloch.

Nestled on the edge of Inverloch and surrounded by nature reserves, Broadbeach offers a unique opportunity to relax and live by the coast. Thirty-one lots have now been released for sale in this prized position, just a couple of minutes walk to the foreshore.

A home at Broadbeach is a chance to enjoy every aspect of living by the coast. Swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, fishing and surfing are just some of the popular pastimes of the region. With magnificent walking tracks close by and a boardwalk that winds through the nature reserve, this is the ideal spot to make the most of the natural assets of Inverloch and surrounds.

The popular surf beach (fully patrolled in summer) is a short drive and you can walk to the town centre and take advantage of the cosmopolitan lifestyle of this popular seaside village. For added convenience, there is a gold-class cinema and meeting rooms on site and by 2018, it is expected that a newly renovated restaurant/cafĂŠ situated in the estate will re-open its doors.

quality construction. With a six-stage development plan, this latest release of land is the third rollout, with construction already underway on homes in stage two, which is now completely sold out. Extensive design guidelines have ensured that every home in the estate is of the highest standard and lots range in size from 372 to 817 m2, all on individual certificates of title.

Another advantage is easy access to all the facilities of the Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club, which includes an all-yearround heated indoor swimming pool, outdoor kids pool, spa, steam room, gym and tennis court. A range of services such as myotherapy, massage, osteopathy, hairdressing and beauty treatments also operate from the health club.

Purchasers can design their own home or take advantage of a number of predesigned homes, that can be delivered by way of a house and land package.

Originally slated as a retirement village, Broadbeach now has a new focus on conventional housing, with an emphasis on

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Located approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne, and a short drive from Phillip Island and Wilsons Prom, Inverloch is a popular holiday and sea-change destination. Don’t miss your chance to live the dream.

INVERLOCH’S BEST LIFESTYLE ESTATE STAGE 2 100% SOLD. STAGE 3 NOW AVAILABLE.

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Enjoy the pristine waters of Anderson Inlet, just 250 metres from your door. Thirty-one lots on offer in Inverloch’s premier lifestyle estate.

Surrounded by beautiful bushland reserve and only a short walk to the centre of town.

Prices start at $225,000.

03 5674 1111 | 7 A’Beckett Street, Inverloch | alexscott.com.au coast 151

Certified Organic cotton fabrics and fillings.

Caring for Health, Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Chemical Sensitivities.

S H O P 1 / 1 0 7 M A R I N E PA R A D E , S A N R E M O V I C 3 9 2 5 . 0 3 5 6 7 8 5 4 4 4 . coast 152

Sleep well.

Cradle for the newborn, cot for baby, bed for child and bed for you.

Breathe easy with organic cotton mattresses, sheets, quilts, pillows, blankets, garments and fabrics plus Australian hardwood furniture.

All chemical free and made in South Gippsland.

Available online at organature.com.au

CREATORS OF THE AUSTRALIAN ORGANIC COTTON BEDROOM AND NURSERYâ„¢

S H O P I N S T O R E O R O N L I N E , W W W. O R G A N AT U R E . C O M . A U coast 153

words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

Perched on the edge of an expansive wetland, this reinterpretation of the classic beach shack is a house filled with soul.

Margie O’Brien says there’s timber in her family’s blood. And apart from a stunning view across the wetlands, the thing that strikes you most about Margie and husband Steve’s Silverleaves home is how timber has been seamlessly integrated into the form and function of the building. From the 1880s-wooden bench top to screening created from repurposed timber packaging, that family passion has translated into a stylish and beautiful home.

The elevated house features a top-storey living space, with a laundry, garage, storage space and workshop located underneath. The house is anchored by seventeen massive ironbark poles and angled to make the most of the natural beauty of the surroundings. The design centres around an open-plan kitchen/living area with floor-to-ceiling windows

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that bring the wetlands right into the room, while an adventurous colour scheme, designed by friend and artist Jonathan Hannon, incorporates grey, green, yellow and orange from the surrounding landscape.

If that view is the glorious backdrop, the heart of the house is the custom-built kitchen bench, designed around an incredible piece sourced by their daughter Jess and sonin-law Tony, who own and run TJ’s Timber. “We definitely wanted a big bench where we could all congregate,” said Margie. The hundred-and thirty-year-old timber benchtop, originally from Sydney’s historic Druids House, is alive with history and character. Nick and Bianca from South Coast Kitchens designed drawers and cupboards to sit underneath, transforming it into a functional and beautiful island bench. >

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… one whole wall framing the view to create a sense of showering outdoors.

Nestled around the bench is a custom-designed kitchen, featuring charcoal 2-Pac cupboards, an expansive pantry, black onyx double sink and integrated refrigerator and dishwasher.

The playful use of colour, timber flooring and sliding doors opening out onto expansive decks have created a light-filled and welcoming living area. The blackbutt floors ripple with character. “Standard blackbutt has a more even look, so we went for the feature grade,” explained Steve. Tony (wearing his other hat – Anthony Ringrose Floor Sanding and Polishing), prepared the floors, filling the cracks and gaps with a black epoxy filler, sanding it all back, then covering it with a waterbased, non-toxic environmentally-friendly coating. For the outside decks, Jess sourced red ironbark from Queensland.

“We wanted something that silvered off, that we didn’t have to maintain,” said Margie. “And we wanted it to come from sustainable forest,” added Steve.

Back in the house, two bedrooms and a main bathroom sit off to one side of the living area. One bedroom is combined with a study and both are colourfully decorated for their grandchildren, who are regular guests. The bathroom features a recycled blackbutt bench, slate-grey Italian tiles, an integrated porcelain bath and a skylight that is actually an LED powered by solar cells.

Off to the other side is the main bedroom and ensuite with full-length windows overlooking the wetlands. There is an undeniable wow factor in the bathroom, with one whole wall framing the view to create a sense of showering outdoors. Like the main bathroom, it features beautiful timber benches and Italian tiles, with the added luxury of underfloor heating. >

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Wild about wood

We’re passionate about timber. If you’re looking for rare and unique timber or building to a budget, we can find what you need.

We stock: flooring, decking, screening, cladding, joinery timbers, slabs and posts in over 50 timber species.

South Gippsland’s agent for Radial Timbers.

We can also sand floors and decks and install flooring.

Delivery all areas. Showroom open Mon–Fri 9am–3pm, all other times by appointment.

www.tjstimber.com.au 5952 3232 24 The Concourse, Cowes

tel: 03 5956 7415

28 boys home road, newhaven, phillip island. info@southcoastkitchens.com.au

www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • WARDROBES • CREATIVE STORAGE • WARDROBE SLIDING DOORS • TOILET PETITIONS • SHOP FIT OUTS • SOLID TIMBER JOINERY

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“That really was our one extravagance,” admitted Margie. “I just love that bathroom, particular when the heating is on!”

The journey to this house began ten years ago when the couple bought a small house in Silverleaves. “I remember coming up the steps and seeing that view out there,” smiled Margie.

After a decade of happy family memories, the decision to demolish the original seven-square home wasn’t easy. “The plumbing went and it wasn’t insulated. But to renovate we would have had to compromise too much.”

requirements of BAL-29 Bushfire Protection standards. The butterfly roof and eaves allow maximum winter sun to stream into the living area, while keeping out the peak of the summer rays. To control the airflow and capture the cooling breeze that flows across from the Rhyll Inlet, there is a combination of sliding doors, double sash and louvre windows. The outside of the house is a mix of painted render and timber feature walls, clad in silvertop ash.

By daring to be different, Margie and Steve have created a colourful and bold house …

She and Steve sat down with local builder Steve Demos of Smiths Beach Constructions and architect Nicci Tregear to create the plan for their new home. “We wanted lots of light and lots of airflow,” said Steve. Despite joking that all they had at the end of that first meeting was “a couple of empty champagne glasses and a few pieces of paper with some swirls and lines on them”, a plan quickly emerged for a compact three-bedroom home. The six-star energy rated design and construction also had to factor in the

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By daring to be different, Margie and Steve have created a colourful and bold house that retains the feel and warmth of their much-loved original beach shack and embraces the surrounding environment. “I love waking up in the middle of the night and seeing all the stars,” said Margie. “It just looks so big out there.”

All timber supplied by TJ’s Timber www.tjstimber.com.au Kitchen and bathroom benches by South Coast Kitchens www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

This Summer, JUST CHILL!

ARC Authorisation No: AU22840

Is it time to replace?

There are a few essential ingredients for keeping cool during an Aussie summer – sunscreen, hat, an esky … and air conditioning.

It’s vital to carry out necessary repairs, or it might be more cost-effective to invest in a brand-spanking new system, complete with warranty. It can save you up to 46% on your split system air conditioner running cost. Act now for a trouble-free, noise-free, leak-free, energy-efficient summer.

1/60 Genista Street, San Remo 5678 5190 After hours commercial breakdown

office@picra.com.au

www.coastalrefrigandaircon.com.au

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• new home

• Specialising

DESIGNS

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in quality coastal homes • Beach houses | units | apartments | renovations • Sustainable • Site specific design • Outdoor living & lifestyle

Coastal Property Developments

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

PE T E R S E C C U LL po 370 inverloch 3996 enquiries 0412 563 718 cpdev@bigpond.com www.coastalpropertydevelopments.com.au coast 161

The landscape features a deck and pergola built entirely of hardwood and an outdoor kitchen with a completely restored dining table.

Ponds and waterfalls feature prominently connected by creeks that flow through the front of the landscape capturing rainwater from the house, creating a natural environment for birds and wildlife.

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Murray River rainbow fish and shrimp will be introduced into the ponds.

The sounds of the waterfalls flow through the house and every viewpoint from inside the house has been considered, creating a natural and calming environment.

This amazing sanctuary will only improve over time.

Heartlands Estate, Wonthaggi

GRACE LANDSCAPES

Design Solutions, Beautiful Landscapes Heath Grace 0404 596 504 Nela Grace 0434 423 339 8 Vista Place CAPE WOOLAMAI | Open 6 days 10 – 6, 9 – 3 weekends (closed Mondays) | www.heathgracelandscapes.com

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coast style

DECORATING INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME

Short on storage?

Need to make the most of space? Our advice … take the stairs.

Harry Potter may have slept in the cupboard under the stairs, but there are some brilliant and inventive ways to make the most of this oft-overlooked space.

Designers and architects like to maximise every storage opportunity in a house these days. Bookshelves, daybeds, indoor gardens and wine racks are just some of the new uses for the humble under-stair cupboard space.

Custom-built storage units and cabinets are a great way to keep items organised.

Horizontal drawers allow you to utilise the full width of the staircase, while pull out vertical drawers work particularly well in the highest parts of the under-stair area.

A staircase in the entrance area of the house is perfectly suited for the practical – housing shoes, coats and jackets, or even hanging bikes. For a more decorative approach,

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tiered shelving or a mix of shelving and cupboards provides spaces for displaying trinkets and ornaments.

A little creative thinking can result in an inspired use of space. Here’s a few of our favourites. A built-in desk and storage shelves creates a compact office or a padded bench seat, scattered with cushions, becomes a peaceful reading nook. Transform the area into an indoor succulent garden, complete with coloured rocks, lights or water-features. Or get the party started with a custom-designed mobile bar on wheels.

Whatever your storage needs, it’s time to step up.

Building Design & Architectual Drafting

CRAFTED SPACES TO SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE.

Bass Coast – Mornington Peninsula – Melbourne www.onsitedesign.com.au Call to book an appointment 0402 620 094

onsite_design_au

onsitedesignau

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Residenti Existing

The Rise Release Cadwell Close

On Sale Now

Pembrey Circ

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Shoalhaven Estate in Phillip Island, invites you to discover the next highly desirable stage release at the The Rise at Shoalhaven precinct.

Situated on a gentle slope capturing rare natural vistas over wetlands and parks with the renowned Red Cove beach, 600m away.

The time to establish yourself in Phillip Island is now! Lot sizes in this premium release Future are up to an impressive 857m2!

Residential Contact us for more information on how you can secure your own perfect island home site.

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Donington Circuit

There’s no place like the Island

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Longridge Drive

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Elvington Avenue

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Thruxton Street

Goodwood Drive

13/78 Nepean Street, Watsonia

Goodwood Drive

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Existing Residential

Residential Residential WHILE BEST ENDEAVOURS HAVE BEEN USED TO PROVIDE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION THAT IS TRUE AND ACCURATE, SHOALHAVEN, ITS CONSULTANTS, AGENTS AND RELATED ENTITIES ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY AND DISCLAIM ALL LIABILITY IN RESPECT TO ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES IT MAY CONTAIN. PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS SHOULD MAKE THEIR OWN ENQUIRIES TO VERIFY THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. Future Residential

Residential Future

Castlecombe Circuit

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

Past TO PRESENT

Harkaway Homes brings the charm of the past to life with brilliant reproductions of Victorian and Early Federation era homes.

It’s like stepping back in time when you enter this beautiful home in Somers. Set on expansive acreage, the house based on a Federation home (circa 1900), is part of the Harkaway Homes Fair Dinkum Federation series. This elegant modernday reproduction captures the charm of the era with its generous verandahs and distinctive steep angled bell roofline.

Boxed bay casement windows, timber friezes, French doors and leadlight windows all add to the charm and character of the home.

Inside, the open living floorplan includes a kitchen overlooking the lounge, three bedrooms, a generous study, main bathroom with a separate powder room and a formal lounge. The interior features throughout the home include high ceilings, ornate cornices and a central hallway complemented by carved timber friezes.

The past and present intersect with style and taste, especially in the kitchen. The classic country kitchen design evokes a bygone era, but contemporary appliances, quality cabinetry and granite bench tops create a space perfect for the modern family. The polished floorboards and internal glass bi-fold doors throughout add to a sense of open space in this serene and impressive home.

At the rear of the house is a traditional “Coolgardie Room” – a fantastic indoor/outdoor living space built out under the verandah roof line. The Coolgardie can be used all year round by opening up to enjoy the fresh air, or closing up with the fireplace burning.

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Harkaway Homes is bringing the best of the past into the present, with their quality reproduction homes. With integrity of design, 100 per cent flexible floor plans, and an acknowledged industry-leading brand name, a Harkaway Home offers the charm and character of yesteryear with the conveniences of modern day living.

Harkaway Homes set a benchmark for quality unmatched within the Australian housing industry, with classic exteriors and perfect profiles. Offering the highest quality in design, materials and service, Harkaway Homes gives you the opportunity to recreate the great Australian dream, like this home does for its proud owners in Somers.

Recreating the Great Australiana Dream.

We are Australia’s leading Reproduction Home Specialists.

We offer nine ranges of the finest character homes covering all aspects of the Victorian and Federation eras. Our homes are designed to express individuality, to be a constant pleasure to live in and to be admired by all.

57 National Avenue, Pakenham. Freecall: 1800 806 416 | 5943 2388 | www.harkawayhomes.com.au coast 171

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A family business building high quality homes in coastal areas for more than 40 years.

Wonthaggi Office: 03 5672 5680 | Head Office: 03 9579 2277 sales@ljhomes.com.au

langfordjoneshomes.com.au Display Homes at Surf Beach. coast 173

• Carpet • Vinyl

• Blinds • Curtains

155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes | Ph. 03 5952 1488 | Fax. 03 5952 1348 | www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

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•Furniture • Rugs

• Beds • Homewares

155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes | Ph. 03 5952 1488 | Fax. 03 5952 1348 | www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

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words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

sustainable SIMPLY

A sustainable, 7-star house nestled into a sand dune is the perfect retreat for a busy family.

Fifteen years ago, Mark and Sophy Knight visited Phillip Island, chasing down a house they’d seen on a magazine cover. Instead they ended up buying a block across the dunes from one of the Island’s iconic beaches. “We live just near Warragul, but strangely enough we hadn’t spent any time along this coast,” explains Sophy. “But it just got under our skin. Since that day, we’ve spent at least one lot of holidays here each year.”

house that will eventually become a place to retire to – got underway. And from the start, the couple were set on working with Ecoliv Buildings. “I think I actually first spoke to Ashley from Ecoliv about four years ago,” laughs Mark. “I always liked what they were doing.” What they were doing included incredible eco-credentials, smart designs, modular construction and a strong local connection. “I love the fact that Ashley lives in the area and employs local tradesmen.”

With three young children and busy work-schedules, it never seemed like quite the right time to build. But this year, the stars finally aligned and the project – a holiday

Ecoliv’s approach to staged construction also offered a degree of certainty that appealed to the couple. “Mark likes to be really organised,” confides Sophy. “He loved that >

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lifestyle review

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everything was done stage by stage, and we knew all the costs involved. There are no hidden costs or agenda. In the building industry, there can be a lot of grey areas, but this was always very clear.”

Sophy and Mark worked closely with Ecoliv to create a house-plan that suited their lifestyle.

Sophy and Mark worked closely with Ecoliv to create a houseplan that suited their lifestyle. “Between the three of us, we dreamt up this little home,” says Sophy. “We needed a certain number of bedrooms. We needed a great kitchen. But we wanted it to be manageable … and not too big.”

Taking the standard modules as the starting point, Ashley designed a house to meet the family’s requirements and one that would suit the site itself. “There was a range of factors we needed to consider,” says Ashley. “For instance, we wanted to capture that view at the front of the house, but we also wanted to capitalise on the northern light at the back.”

Ecoliv has built a formidable reputation on modules constructed in their factory and then transported; however, in this case, the construction was all onsite. “For local projects, we can do either,” explains Ashley. “The factory construction is really good for a project with tight deadlines. If you don’t have to factor in weather or site conditions, it gives you a lot of certainty on delivery dates. We essentially use the same >

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Sustainable design, Smart living

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.

Visit our display home at 332 White Road, Wonthaggi Ph. 5672 5196

www.ecoliv.com.au

Multi Award Winning Building Designer of Contemporary Sustainable Homes.

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

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au coast 179

Compact, clever and low-maintenance …

methodology when we build onsite, but it does allow more flexibility to make modifications if you need to.”

In this case, there was one major deviation from the original plans and Mark and Sophy couldn’t be more delighted about it. Ecoliv’s construction manager Clint Davidson suggested extending the deck and creating a curved edge that nestled right up against the imposing sand dune in the corner of the block.

It not only looks stunning, but has created an expansive outdoor area that’s perfect for entertaining. “We’ve got a bit of beach in the back yard, which is funky,” says Sophy. “And extending the deck has created an outdoor space that we’ll enjoy forever.”

If the curved deck and dune is an eyecatching feature, the simplicity of the design is a masterclass in restraint. The two wings radiate from the central kitchen/living area.

With sliding doors on both sides, the living room opens up to create one enormous open entertaining area. Off the kitchen is a hallway leading to a bathroom and two bedrooms, while to the right of the lounge is a second bathroom and the remaining two bedrooms.

“The layout is fantastic,” says Sophy. “It’s compact, but the house can sleep up to ten.”

Another Ecoliv hallmark is well-planned, clever storage space and in this house, humour and inventiveness intersect in a kitchen cupboard that actually reveals itself to be a doorway through to the laundry and garage. “It’s a really great kitchen, with a lot of bench space and plenty of storage. I thought all my Christmases had come at once the first time I used it.”

In all Ecoliv homes, the materials for the interior are chosen as much for their sustainability credentials as their aesthetic properties. An interior decorator by trade, Sophy was thrilled with the finishes and ranges that Ecoliv supplied. “It was great to walk in and see everything I’d have chosen anyway.” As well as looking good, the house has ingrained sustainability, including solar panels and solar hot water; water tanks; insulation in the floors, ceilings and walls; and double glazing on every window – standard inclusions on all Ecoliv Buildings homes. “Because the house is so heavily insulated, it’s really quiet, and the savings on the energy bill are major,” says Sophy. “The entire house is heated by a single reverse-cycle unit in the lounge.”

Compact, clever and low-maintenance, this really is the ideal holiday home for this busy family. For Sophy, it’s is a great way to escape from the demands of the world. “I love it. At night in my room, I can lie in bed and listen to the ocean.”

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Nests are woven together with a twig from here, a feather from there.

Every piece is carefully selected and has a different story to tell.

Our Nest is about bringing together the most beautiful and handmade goods for you to select for your own nest, many of which have been sourced from local talented artists and artisans.

0428 968 325 64 Cashin Street Inverloch Nestled behind Dirty Three Wines

GIPPSLAND’S LEADING SUPPLIER OF

Frames & Trusses Kitchens & Bathrooms Shower Screens & Wardrobes Windows & Doors Cape Paterson Rd, Wonthaggi, Selection Gallery next to Mitre10 Office: 5672 4890 Selections Gallery: 5672 0630 Monday – Friday: 8–4. info@capeviewbuildingproducts.com.au www.capeviewbuildingproducts.com.au See us on facebook

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Your local builders.

When you visit your local G.J. Gardner Homes office, you’ll feel like you’re already home.

Every franchise is owned and operated by people with local knowledge, insights, expertise and advice.

We know the local council and the best local tradies, because we work with them every day.

Building your new home with a local team you can get to know personally is surprisingly easy.

Come in and visit us to find out more.

Welcome Home. coast 182

Give us a call or drop in for a chat today.

Call 132 789 or visit gjgardner.com.au

Mornington franchisees: Scott & Judy

(03) 5975 1122

5/234 Main St, Mornington

Bass Coast franchisees: Garry & Gill

(03) 5952 2150 1/219 Settlement Rd, Cowes (03) 5672 1818 114-116 Graham St, Wonthaggi

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & CONVEYANCING

ASPIRE DESIGNER HOMES

BEACH HOUSE CONSTRUCTIONS

Our highly professional team offers quality service, expert skills and attention to detail, combining local knowledge with over 50 years experience in the trade. Innovative designs inspired by local and European trends and floor-plans from 12 – 50 squares, bring international style to your home and allow you to choose a home that perfectly fits your lifestyle.

Our award-winning sustainable homes work with nature and save on bills year-round. We pride ourselves on quality materials and an exceptional construction team. For those not lucky enough to live by the coast, our city-based team at Modhouse can create your dream home in Melbourne. Display homes open via appointment on Phillip Island and Mornington Peninsula.

Call 9785 5100 www.aspiredesignerhomes.com.au Showrooms: 179 Thompson Ave, Cowes or 48 Harnett Drive, Seaford.

Call Sales on 0425 512 999 www.beachhouseconstructions. com.au www.modhouse.com.au

BEAUMONT CONCEPTS

BRB LAW

Beaumont Concepts building designs are unique. Each individual design is carefully matched to your environment, desires and lifestyle. Your dream home will be environmentally friendly, costeffective, liveable, functional and stylish. Our designs capitalise on natural elements to reduce energy output, ensuring an environmentally-friendly home with the highest possible energy rating.

Expert legal services. The team at BRB Law has decades of legal experience in South Gippsland. We can handle all your conveyancing needs. Our accredited specialists, lawyers and consultants can assist in all areas of property law including buying and selling a house or block of land and purchasing, leasing or selling a business.

Call 5662 2275 www.brblaw.com.au

Call 5672 5196 www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & ARCHITECTS

COLDON HOMES

CP DEVELOPMENTS

DB DESIGNS

ECOLIV BUILDINGS

For over 50 years Coldon Homes has been building quality coastal and country residences throughout Bass Coast and southern Gippsland. Our homes suit their landscape and your lifestyle. From two to five bedrooms, double and single storey, brick or modern claddings, there is a design perfect for every block or we can tailor the home to suit your exact requirements.

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

Darren Brown has over 20 years’ experience and is one of the region’s leading building design professionals. DB Design removes confusion from the building design and documentation process. With our extensive network of building professionals, consultants and builders, we provide clients with choice and flexibility throughout every stage of their building project and offer a unique level of assistance.

Ecoliv Sustainable Buildings are architecturally designed prefabricated modular homes with inspiring, functional living spaces and a minimum 7-star energy rating. Constructed in a controlled environment, our prefabricated modular homes provide a compact yet functional solution, flexible to suit your lifestyle and location.

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

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Call 0412 563 718 www.cpdev.com.au

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

Call 5672 5196 www.ecoliv.com.au

RESORT LIVING EVERY DAY. RETIRE IN SOUTH GIPPSLAND. Experience the boutique retirement dream at Mountain View Leongatha

Be on a permanent holiday by joining our exclusive community.

Choice of 2 & 3 bedroom master built luxury homes with single or double garages.

A 24 hour emergency call service and secure caravan and boat storage for peace of mind.

ONLY 45 VILLAS ON COMPLETION

Two financial options to suit your budget.

Contact us for further information.

Master built luxury homes.

Double Garages now available Community Centre completed and operational.

RESORT LIVING EVERY DAY

OPEN FOR INSPECTION from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

Ph: 1300 306 255 1 Dale Drive Leongatha VIC 3953 www.mountainviewleongatha.com.au

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & ARCHITECTS

GJ GARDNER HOMES Here’s just one of thousands of satisfied customers … “Thank you guys for 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 and the flexibility of the planning stage was brilliant.” – Glen Hatton Call Gill or Garry 7 Days a week 5952 2150 www.gjgardner.com.au

GRAEME ALEXANDER HOMES The development of exciting designs and quality home construction is 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.

Call 5975 4561 www.gahomes.com.au

HARKAWAY HOMES

HOTONDO HOMES

Australia’s leading Reproduction Home Specialists bring the best of the past into the present, by reproducing nine ranges from Victorian and Early Federation eras.

A Harkaway Home sits proudly on inner suburban blocks in established suburbs or on acreage in rural landscapes. With integrity of design and 100% flexible floor plans, Harkaway Homes is successfully breathing life back into originality.

Hotondo Homes is Australia’s leading building franchise network with over 75 builders across the country. As locals, each builder has a strong understanding of their area and is dedicated to creating a stress-free and easy building journey for their clients. With over 90 beautiful and flexible designs to choose from we’re here to turn your new house into your dream home.

Call 5943 2388 www.harkawayhomes.com.au

Call 1800 677 156 www.hotondo.com.au

BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & ARCHITECTS

LANGFORD JONES HOMES Langford Jones Homes has been building quality affordable homes in Bass Coast, South Gippsland and the Mornington Peninsula for over 40 years. The company has display homes in Surf Beach and Wonthaggi and specialises in coastal homes with a collection of over 100 designs. Langford Jones Homes can custom design and build your perfect home using the latest 3D technology.

Call 9579 2277 www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au

ONSITE DESIGN Onsite Design has crafted spaces for people who expect a superior level of quality, whether it’s a large or small-scale project. They guide you from the initial design concept right through to the building permit and you get flexibility over the builder you choose to build your project. To discuss your ideas, get in touch with the team at Onsite Design.

Call 0402 620 094 www.onsitedesign.com.au

S.J. VUILLERMIN MASTER BUILDERS

Named 2015 Residential Building of the Year (South East) at the Master Builders Regional Building Awards, our clients enjoy the benefits of an experienced building contractor, expert local knowledge and outstanding customer service. From renovations to new designs, we look after all domestic requirements and pride ourselves on supporting local trades and suppliers. With 30 years of experience and competitive prices, we are Gippsland’s premier builders. Call 5952 3232 www.tjstimber.com.au Call 0428 598 237 www.sjvuillerminmasterbuilders. com.au

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TJ’S TIMBER A family owned and operated business with their showroom on Phillip Island. Environmentally conscious, they stock a large range of sustainably sourced and accredited new and recycled timbers, as well as offering flooring installation, sanding and polishing using top environmentally-friendly products. With an emphasis on quality, they cater for all budgets and deliver to South Gippsland, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne.

IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

Offshore Design is for the modern coastal lifestyle – simple, elegant and beautiful furniture and homewares on your doorstep.

49 Thompson Ave, Cowes sales@offshoredesign.net.au www.offshoredesign.net.au

Australia’s Largest Flooring & Blind Retailer 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

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IT’S A LL ABOUT THE HOUSE

BUILDERS, DESIGNERS & CONVEYANCING

TREASE BUILDERS

TS CONSTRUCTIONS

Established in 1985, Trease Builders has a passion for timber and a reputation for fine work and attention to detail. Architectural housing is a speciality and Trease achieves exceptional results, working with highly skilled trades and contractors. Their multiple Housing Awards include Custom Build Homes, Most Innovative Use of Steel, Energy Efficient Housing and the ultimate accolade – Australian Home of the Year.

TS Constructions has shaped the built environment throughout southern Gippsland. From muchloved family homes through to workplaces, schools, hospitals and offices, people are constantly encountering the results of our labours. ISO-certified to three international standards (Quality, Safety and Environment) and with extensive experience in environmental products and methods, TS Constructions guarantees you a high-quality, innovative and professional build.

Call 5664 0118 www.treasebuilders.com.au

Call 5672 2466 www.tsconstructions.com.au

GARDENS & TRADES

CAPEVIEW BUILDING PRODUCTS South Gippsland’s leading manufacturer and supplier of frames, trusses, windows and kitchens – servicing local builders and home renovators alike. Our range of durable windows and doors will add a stunning finish to your home. Talk to our dedicated kitchen design team about designing your dream kitchen.

We also manufacture and install shower screens and security doors.

Call 5672 4980 www.capeviewbuildingproducts. com.au

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

GARDENS & TRADES

CONQUEST POOLS MORNINGTON PENINSULA Servicing the Mornington Peninsula, South and East regions of Melbourne and Gippsland.

Conquest Pools is the largest manufacturer of fibreglass pools in Victoria. You can be sure the construction and installation of your pool is premium quality.

Available in a fantastic range of colours, shapes and designs.

All pools come with a 25-year structural warranty.

Call 0438 736 918 www.conquestpools.com.au

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THE COUNTRY GARDENER Outstanding plant nursery with over 20 years experience. We pride ourselves on excellent service and quality plants with an extensive range of natives, ornamental, exotic plants and fruit trees as well as stunning giftware and pots.

Our staff are knowledgeable and friendly and offer great advice.

Open 7 days, 9am-5pm.

Call 5672 4866

GRACE LANDSCAPES Grace Landscapes create beautiful, functional and sustainable residential and commercial landscapes. Natural and formal designs include native flora and fauna, water features and outdoor living spaces, with a focus not only on bringing the inside out but also bringing the outside in, using the latest in design concepts, construction techniques and material. Their Cape Woolamai store includes living art, bonsai, terrariums and cacti.

Call 0404 596 504 www.heathgracelandscapes.com

JAK CONCRETE AND EXCAVATION Melbourne’s premier concrete and construction company with over 18 years experience in both commercial and residential projects, JAK Concrete and Excavation is committed to providing the highest quality work and finishes at great competitive prices. Our highly experienced team and qualified contractors are uncompromising in their pursuit of excellence. Focused on customer service, we deliver on time and on budget.

Call 0423 647 805 www.jakconcreteandexcavation. com.au

Thinking of Buying or Selling

We assist in all areas of property law. From buying and selling a holiday home, lifestyle property or forever home as well as purchasing, selling or leasing a business. From the most straight forward deal to complex issues, our experienced team is equipped to advise you on all property and commercial transactions.

8.45 – 5.15 Mon – Fri 50 Bair Street, Leongatha 03 5662 2275 info@brblaw.com.au www.brblaw.com.au

D e s ig n e rs of styl i s h , f u n ct i o nal an d sustai nab l e bu i l d i n g s .

03 5672 1144 DARREN@DBDESIGN.COM.AU W W W. D B D E S I G N . C O M . A U O F F I C E / D I S P L AY H O M E : 47 GRAHAM STREET WONTHAGGI 3995, VICTORIA.

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INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

CARPET COURT PHILLIP ISLAND Whatever your budget, we’ve got something for your renovating or building project. Our extensive range includes carpets, rugs, timber, laminate, vinyl, hybrid and tiles. With all the best brands you know and trust, Carpet Court has everything you need to complete your flooring and window furnishing projects.

Our experienced staff can help you choose the perfect flooring solution for your home.

Call 5952 6377 www.carpetcourt.com.au

MOOKAH STUDIOS

OFFSHORE DESIGN

ORGANATURE

A small independent handmade label offering a range of stylish, contemporary and eco-friendly homewares, textiles and accessories. We focus on fabrics predominantly inspired by nature and we love working with natural fibres such as hemp, linen and organic cotton. We work with our own hand screen-printed fabrics or use Australian designers who share our love of natural fibres and the environment.

Offshore Design is a new and contemporary furniture and homewares store in the heart of Cowes. The idea of offering simple, elegant and beautiful items for everyone’s homes is what we hope to achieve. We have taken colours and textures to suit the modern coastal lifestyle, lovely wood, river stone resin tables, lamb’s wool cushions and a touch of cow hide.

A family owned business manufacturing and selling manchester, mattresses, futons and bedlinen, made from certified organic cotton. Certified organic clothing for babies, children and adults, and toxic-free hardwood timber furniture. Environmentally friendly and perfect for anyone suffering from allergies or chemical sensitivity. All fabrics are made from GOTS certified organic cotton, grown by non-toxic methods, using only rain water.

www.offshoredesign.net.au

Call Nicole 0420 935 189 www.mookah.com.au

Call 5678 5444 www.organature.com

INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

SOUTH COAST FURNISHINGS Decorating and finishing your house has never been easier, with an extensive range of flooring and window furnishings. We supply and install carpet, vinyl, timber and laminates, as well as window coverings – curtains, shutters and blinds. Our furniture and decorator range has a coastal influence, ranging from sofas, beds, rugs, lamps and cushions.

Call 5952 1488 www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

SOUTH COAST KITCHENS & ISLAND ROBES Servicing the local community for over 25 years, we focus on quality products and superior customer service. Providing competitive joinery for all budgets, domestic and commercial, our local, experienced tradesman use quality hardware with the latest machinery. We offer a one-onone kitchen design service, plus wardrobe and storage solutions.

Visit our recently updated showroom located in Newhaven.

Call 5956 7415 www.southcoastkitchens.com.au

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SOUTHERN BAZAAR

TYDE

Southern Bazaar Home has a unique range of new and recycled furniture and homewares. They stock quality Australian brands like Tessa and Molmic, not to mention a great range of Australian timber furniture, prints and homewares.

Located in the main street of Inverloch and online. You are sure to find that special piece for your home.

This beautiful store on The Esplanade at Cowes stocks an impressive range of homewares, including rugs, throws, ceramics, indoor plants, candles and baskets. Australian designers, local, handmade and fair trade products.

Call 0407 414 895 www.southernbazaar.com.au

Call 0400 569 663

The Country Gardener Wonthaggi

A H U G E R A N G E O F P L A N T S A N D S T U N N I N G G I F T WA R E , P O T S A N D WA L L A R T .

Q UA L I T Y | EXPERIENCE | F R I E N D LY A D V I C E 19 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi | countrygardener@bigpond.com | Mon –Sat 9am –5pm and Sun 10am – 4pm | 5672 4866

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PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

BROADBEACH INVERLOCH

THE CAPE – CAPE PATERSON ECO VILLAGE

Thirty-one lots have now been released for sale in this prized position, just a couple of minuteswalk to the foreshore. Originally slated as a retirement village, Broadbeach now has a new focus on conventional housing. With a six-stage development plan, this latest release of land is the third rollout, with stage two completely sold out. Lots range in size from 372 to 817m2, all on individual certificates of title.

Australia’s first truly sustainable residential project. Choose from one of ten house plans designed exclusively for The Cape, or design your own. Home sites are set amongst expansive open space including walking and cycling tracks, parks, bbq areas and a community garden, with easy access to a safe swimming beach and onsite sporting facilities.

Stage 1 now on sale.

Call 5674 1111 www.alexscott.com.au

Call 0413 265 362 www.liveatthecape.com.au

MOUNTAIN VIEW LEONGATHA

SHOALHAVEN ESTATE

Shoalhaven Estate in Phillip Island invites you to discover the next highly desirable stage release at the The Rise at Shoalhaven precinct. Situated on a gentle slope capturing rare natural vistas over wetlands and parks with the renowned Red Cove beach, 600m away. Establish yourself in Phillip Island now! Lot sizes in this premium release are up to an Call 1300 306 255 www.mountainviewleongatha.com.au impressive 857m2! Contact us for more information on how to secure your perfect island home site.

Mountain View Leongatha offers boutique retirement living.

Choice of 2 or 3 bedroom, master built, luxury home with low maintenance. Only 45 villas on completion. The Community Centre, including bowling green and indoor pool was completed and operational from the start.

Call 0414 477 611 www.shoalhavenphillipisland.com.au

“Called me back, friendly service, turned up when they said, good bunch of guys and worked on achieving my budget.”

Alex

Welcome to JAK Concrete & Excavation. We pride ourselves in being the BEST in the industry, providing you the highest quality service, product & workmanship. From EXCAVATION through to all your CONCRETING needs. There is no job too BIG or small. Call today for your FREE measure & Quote.

3/217 Settlement Road, Cowes | 0423 647 805 | adam@jakconcreteandexcavation.com.au | www.jakconcreteandexcavation.com.au

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ENERGY SAVING! Find the most cost-effective, practical ways to save energy in existing homes, extensions or new-builds.

Book a professional consultation and receive a full report with independent and accurate advice. We don’t sell energy products but will show you how to save energy in your home.

ECONERGY

Call Ian Oakley, 5672 2424 or 0412 019 716 econergy@optusnet.com.au | 42 Kirrak St, Wonthaggi

A good fence is all you need.

• All types of fencing – pool, ARC, brush, paling, decking, custom designs and more.

• Over 20 years experience.

• High quality workmanship.

• Family run business – locally owned and operated.

• We sell timber direct to the public.

0414 541 849

sales@islandtimberandfencing.com 28 Boys Home Road, Newhaven

Mojo Contracting

Safe, timesaving tree work by qualified professionals. Let us do the hard work to help you enjoy your garden!

Servicing Phillip Island, San Remo and Bass Coast.

Large/Dangerous Tree Specialists Tree Removal Stump Removal Pruning Cabling Block Clearing Hedge Trimming Weed Control Fire Wood & Mulch Supplies

Mojo Contracting | 273 Church St Cowes VIC 3922 Phone 03 5952 5542 | Mobile 0427 052 173 adam@mojocontracting.com.au

COASTAL PROJECT DESIGNS CONCEPTS | DESIGN MANAGEMENT 0412 563 718 cpdev@bigpond.com www.coastalproperty developments.com.au

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EFFECTIVE

INDIGENOUS & NATIVE PLANT FARM

‘Natives, because they’re beautiful’ Melaleuca Nursery has been supplying quality indigenous & native plants to West & South Gippsland for over 30 years.

Whether it’s a few plants for the backyard or thousands for a revegetation project; we provide excellent advice on what’s best for your area.

Domestic and commercial security products and service Competitively priced, value for money security solutions Alarms and installation CCTV cameras Access control systems Grade a1 24/7 security monitoring

ADDRESS: 50 Pearsalls Road, Inverloch Vic 3996 OPEN: Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5pm. Trade enquiries welcome.

CONTACT: Phone: 03 5674 1014 | info@gonativelandscapes.com

www.melaleucanursery.com

Secure. Safe. Peace of Mind.

1 3 0 0 4 7 4 7 4 8 | W W W . B A S S C O A S T S E C U R I T Y. C O M . A U

S

E E W BOX LL

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Melaleuca Nursery

Island Secure Storage

Easy car and truck access.

Wide range of unit sizes to suit all your needs.

We stock all your packaging requirements.

Access is 24/7.

On-site manager during business hours.

All units have an individual alarm and the facility has security cameras inside and out.

Storing with us will be a breeze. mob: 0400 214 446 4 Industrial Way, Cowes VIC 3922 e: storage@islandsteel.com.au

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www.islandstorage.com.au

EXPERT ADVICE AND GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE. TIMBER

HARDWARE PAINTS HUGE RANGE OF WATER TANKS

TOOLS

EST. 1965

Cnr. Bass Highway & Glen Forbes Rd, Grantville 03 5678 8552 421 Princess Hwy, Officer VIC 3809 03 5943 2371 www.vansteenseltimbers.com.au

Clean, fresh, light accommodation – family villas and studios with ensuite

We offer a wide range of holistic treatments.

Be inspired – start your pathway today.

RECHARGE, RELAX AND HEAL.

#1 on Tripadvisor 97 Church St, Cowes VIC 3922 Phone: (03) 5952 2548 Email: info@amaroopark.com

www.amaroopark.com

Bass Coast

Float and Massage 0400 318 833

64 Tulloch Street, Dalyston

A TREASURE TROVE OF PRE-LOVED, RETRO, VINTAGE & MORE...

FURNITURE HOME DECOR LIGHTING & ART

INDOOR & OUTDOOR GIFTS

NOW OFFERING STORAGE FOR BOATS, CARAVANS AND TRAILERS

Opens at 10 every Sunday in Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.

Closed 24/12, reopens 31/12.

RE GE TO N. HU E S SOO N LI NG ON OMI C

Main Street, KONGWAK, Victoria

(only 10 minutes from Inverloch) For more info call Jane on 0417 142 478

Weekends 10am – 4pm and Mon, Thurs & Fri 10am – 5pm 34 Bear Street, Inverloch Phone: 0402 712 707 www.salasiam.com.au

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Sensory flotation tank and healing pathways.

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

“

lasts all of a second, but the memory lives on forever” A moment 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

Creating videos for every occasion.

• • • •

Wedding Videography.

Memorial Tributes (Funerals) Presentations Events

• Various Media Transfer • VHS, Cassette, Record, Camcorder to CD/DVD

P.O. Box 353, Wonthaggi, 3995 | Bev Main, 0418 345 460 e: M.M.V@bigpond.com | w: mainmemoriesvideography.com.au

WE’RE COUNTING DOWN TILL AUTUMN.

As your local Member of Parliament I am keen to hear from the community and assist with any State Government matter.

Warm regards, Daniel Mulino a: 1/23 James Street, Pakenham, VIC 3810 p: 5940 5010 f: 5940 5011 e: daniel.mulino@parliament.vic.gov.au daniel.mulino.1 Authorised by D Mulino, 1/23 James Street, Pakenham. This material has been funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office & Communications budget.

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We’re already thinking about our next edition.

Here’s the simple truth: More people read Coast than any other local magazine. And readers love our great photos and stories. If you’re looking for quality and style, talk to us about the best ad package for you.

Talk to Robyn about your ad or your promotional campaign on 0432 273 107 or email ads@coastmagazine.net Edition 50 – Spring 2018 Ad booking deadline: 8 February On sale: 5 March 2018

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA P R I M A RY S C H O O L

Catholic education on Phillip Island.

TAK I N G E N RO L M E N T S NOW.

Please call Cathy Blackford on 5951 1700 to enquire or to make an appointment to enrol at Our Lady Star of the Sea in 2018. All welcome. Coeducational, Foundation (prep) to Level Six, contemporary learning based around innovative, indoor and outdoor learning spaces.

Island Shoes 134 Thompson Avenue, Cowes, Vic. 3922 Ph: 03 5952 2515

6 Cowes – Rhyll Rd, Cowes | 5951 1700 principal@olsscowes.catholic.edu.au

NEW & GENTLY USED QUALITY GOODS

‘Browsers Always Welcome’

Organic Body Treats was born out of a life-long passion that needed to be expressed, explored and most importantly, excelled at.

That’s what makes Organic Body Treats different...

34 Thompson Ave, Cowes | 5952 2297, 0467 638 764 www.organicbodytreats.com.au

31 MAIN STREET, FOSTER PH: 5682 1381 WEEKDAYS 10AM–5PM SAT 9.30AM–4PM SUN 10AM–4PM OPEN 7 DAYS NOVEMBER – APRIL

www.mainstreetrevelations.com.au

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Now available at Island Shoes for Summer 2018

coast directory www.coastmagazine.net

directory Artists & Galleries Annette Spinks Gallery & Studio ArtFusion Gallery Artistic Murals ArtSpace Wonthaggi Gecko Gallery Goat Island Gallery The Goldsmith’s Gallery Gooseneck Pottery Gordon Glass Blowers La Casa Sawtellis Gallery Laurie Collins Sculpture Garden & Red Tree Gallery Manyung Gallery Melbourne Murals Mingara Gallery Mosaics by the Bay Sol Studio & Gallery Without Pier Gallery

42 83 91 6 92 79 51 51 91 73 85 49 54 77 87 89 82

Automotive Edney’s Leongatha Wonthaggi Toyota & Holden

102 29

Builders & Designers Aspire Designer Homes 204 Beach House Constructions 2 Beaumont Concepts 179 Coldon Homes 191 CP Design 193 CP Development 160 DB Design 189 Ecoliv 179 GJ Gardner Homes 182 Graeme Alexander Homes 148 Harkaway Homes 171 Hotondo Homes 166 Langford Jones Homes 175 On Site Design 165 S J Vuillermin Master Builders 138 Trease Builders 140 TS Constructions 143

Entertainment The Briars, Mt Martha Islantis Surf Experience Kongwak Market Main Memories Videography Meeniyan Garlic Festival Music for the People Over the Top Events Turn the Page The Wonthaggi Market

79 81 195 196 77 89 4 199 53

Fashion Island Shoes 197 Island Surfboards 83 Islantis 81 Main Street Revelations 197 Mookah Studios 12 Norte 35 Sketa 25 Tyde 29

Government & Schools Bass Coast Shire Council Brian Paynter MP

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135 97

Mornington Peninsula Shire Daniel Mulino Newhaven College Our Lady Star of the Sea PS South Gippsland Shire Council West Gippsland Regional Library West Gippsland CMA Westernport Water

79 196 101 197 90 92 136 18

Green & Gardens Conquest Pools The Country Gardener Grace Landscapes Melaleuca Nursery Mojo Contracting

144 191 162 194 193

Hair, Health & Beauty Bass Coast Float & Massage 195 BH Beauty, Skin, Body 35 Broadbeach Inverloch Health Club 79 Organic Body Treats 197 Wellness Manor 71 YMCA 200

Homewares & Furniture Nest Homewares 181 Mookah Studios 12 Offshore Designs 187 Organature San Remo 152 Sala Siam 195 South Coast Furnishings 175 Southern Bazaar 27 Tyde 29 The Wonthaggi Market 53

Jewellery The Goldsmith’s Gallery Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery

51 9

Professional Services Bendigo Bank 102 BRB Law 189 Econergy 193 Mark Farmer Financial Solutions 101

Property & Accommodation Alex Scott Phillip Island Amaroo Park Anchor Belle Apartments at Glen Isla Basia Mille Broadbeach Inverloch The Cape Eco Village Lauders Shoalhaven Long Jetty Caravan Park Mountain View Leongatha Phillip Island Off-Track Accomm RACV Inverloch Vista de Phillip Island Yanakie Caravan Park

203 195 65 83 111 151 147 168 60 185 91 124 87 61

Restaurants, Cafes & Food Angel’s Healthfood 104 The Beach Box 104 BEANd 110 The Black Sheep Cafe 106 The Boat Ramp Cafe 77 The Burger Bar Inverloch 112

The Cape Kitchen Cape Woolamai Bar & Bistro Chill Bill The Chutney Bar The Coffee Collective Freedom Organics Gatha Food Store Gourmet Paddock Harry’s on the Esplanade HeadQuarters Cafe at Gecko IGA San Remo Kernot Food & Wine Store Kilcunda General Store La Casa Sawtellis Leongatha Health Nutrition & Wholefoods Manhattan in Mornington The Old Print Shop Cafe The Palms Restaurant & Bar Paul the Pieman Phillip Island RSL Porter Republic RACV Inverloch Relish Mama Saigon Maggie Sweet Life Cafe Sweet Life Cakes

105 122 107 107 125 104 112 117 106 92 107 115 115 115 113 121 116 116 123 121 116 124 114 122 111 122

Tourism, Travel & Recreation A Maze N’Things Cowes Boat Hire Eagle Ridge Golf Course Island Surfboards Islantis Surf Experience Lang Lang Golf Club Mornington Racecourse Phillip Island Camping Hire Phillip Island Chocolate Factory Phillip Island Grand Prix Track Phillip Island Helicopters Phillip Island Nature Parks South Gippsland Tank Adventure Sport Phillip Marine State Coal Mine Wonthaggi Vietnam Vets Museum Wildlife Coast Cruises

43 77 57 83 81 85 67 85 40 90 82 68 87 91 92 89 82

Trades & Hardware Bass Coast Security Capeview Building Products Carpet Court Phillip Island Coastal Refrigeration Island Secure Storage Island Timbers & Fencing JAK Concrete South Coast Kitchens TJ’s Timbers Van Steensels Timbers

194 181 187 159 194 193 192 157 157 194

Wineries Basia Mille Bellvale Wines Dirty Three Wines Lucinda Estate Mordialloc Cellar Door Purple Hen Wines

111 127 128 58 196 127

Stockists Aspendale News Anchorage Store, Ventnor Balnarring Village News Bass General Store Baxter Newsagency, Frankston Beach St Newsagency, Frankston Benton Square Newsagency, Mornington Berwick Newsagency Black Rock News Blairgowrie Newagency Bunyip Newsagency Caltex Bass Carrum Newsagency Carrum Downs News Cape Woolamai Bottlo Cellar & Pantry, Red Hill South Chelsea News Cheltenham News Corinella General Store Coronet Bay General Store Cowes IGA Cowes Mobil Cowes Newsagent Cranbourne Newsagency Dalyston General Store Dromana Newsagency Drouin Newsagency East Brighton Newsagency Edithvale Newsagency Fish Creek BP Fish Creek General Store Flinders General Store Foster BP Foster Newsagency Gardenvale Newsagency Garfield Newsagency Grantville Newsagency Hampton East Newsagency Hampton Newsagency Hastings Newsagency Highett Newsagency Inverloch BP Inverloch Foodworks Karingal Hub Newsagency, Frankston Kilcunda General Store Koonwarra Store Koo Wee Rup Newsagency Korumburra BP Korumburra News Kunyung Newsagency, Mt Eliza Lang Lang Newsagency Leongatha BP Leongatha Newsagency Longwarry Newsagency Lonsdale News, Dandenong Meeniyan Newsagent Mentone Newsagency Middle Brighton News Mirboo North BP Mornington News Morwell Newsagency Mt Eliza Newsagency Mt Martha Newsagency Narre Warren Newsagency Narre Warren North News Neerim South Newsagency Newhaven Newsagency Newsxpress Inverloch North Brighton News Orbost Newsagency Pakenham Newsagency Parkdale Newsagency Pearcedale Newsagency Rhyll General Store Rosebud Newsagency Rye Newsagency San Remo - Freedom Fuels San Remo IGA San Remo Newsagency Sandringham News Sandy Point General Store Scribes News & Tatts, Mornington Seaford Newsagency Seaview Newsagency, Beaumaris Silverleaves General Store Smiths Beach Store Somerville News & Tatts Sorrento News Strzelecki News & Tatts, Mirboo Nth Tarwin Lower Supermarket Toora Newsagency Tooradin Newsagency Traralgon Newsagency Tyabb Newsagency Venus Bay Store Warragul Newsagent Warren Village Newagency, Mordialloc Wilsons Prom - Tidal River Store Wonthaggi BP Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi Ritchies IGA Yanakie Store

a good read This summer, plan the perfect garden, whip up a feast, relive your misspent youth or escape into an imaginary world.

SUNBURY

by Peter Evans After 45 years, here is the first book on the Sunbury rock festival, often referred to as ‘Australia’s Woodstock’, that heralded a revolution in Australian music and culture.

This book explores the history of the Sunbury rock festivals, staged over the Australia Day long weekends from 1972 – 1975. It was a time of renewal in Australian political and cultural life and a new awakening of national identity. The book concentrates on the first festival in 1972, a ground-breaking event which, if it did not conceive Aussie pub rock was, at the very least, the midwife. The strength of the Sunbury festivals was the organisation behind them, which allowed them to be more than just a single event. The book explores the musical highlights of the festivals and the experiences of those who attended.

NON- FICTION SWEET

by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh ‘There’s nothing like a perfectly light sponge flavoured with spices and citrus or an icing-sugar-dusted cookie to raise the spirits and create a moment

of pure joy.’ In his new baking and desserts cookbook Yotam Ottolenghi and his longtime collaborator Helen Goh bring their hallmarks of fresh, evocative ingredients, exotic spices and complex flavourings including fig, rose petal, saffron, aniseed, orange blossom, pistachio and cardamom to indulgent cakes, biscuits, tarts, puddings, cheesecakes and ice cream. Sweet includes over 110 innovative recipes. There is something here to delight everyone – from simple mini-cakes and cookies that parents can make with their children, to show-stopping layer cakes and roulades that will reignite the imaginations of accomplished bakers.

NON- FICTION THE NEW AUSTRALIAN GARDEN

by Michael Bates An insider’s account of the journey to design, construct and plant 18 landmark gardens that represent a new movement in Australian landscape design. Landscaper Michael Bates, working alone and in collaboration with some of the greatest design talents in the field, creates spaces that connect indoor to outdoor through masterful use of levels, innovative materials and experimental planting. The resulting gardens are destination spaces, sanctuaries and breathtaking backdrops for everyday life.

FICTION FIRST PERSON

by Richard Flanagan By turns compelling, comic, and chilling, First Person is another astonishing book from Man Booker prize winner, Richard Flanagan. A young and penniless writer, Kif Kehlmann, is approached by the notorious con man and corporate criminal, Siegfried Heidl. About to go to trial for defrauding the banks of $700 million, Heidl proposes a deal – $10,000 for Kehlmann to ghost write

A book is a version of the world.

If you don’t like it, ignore it or offer your own version in return.

- Salman Rushdie

his memoir in six weeks. As the deadline draws closer, Kif becomes ever more unsure if he is ghost writing a memoir, or if Heidl is rewriting him – his life, his future.

TEEN FICTION TURTLES ALL THE WAY DOWN

by John Green Sixteen-year-old Aza never intended to pursue the mystery of fugitive billionaire Russell Pickett, but there’s a hundredthousand dollar reward at stake and her Best and Most Fearless Friend, Daisy, is eager to investigate. In his long-awaited return, John Green, the acclaimed, awardwinning author of Looking for Alaska and The Fault in Our Stars, shares Aza’s story in this brilliant novel of love, resilience, and the power of lifelong friendship.

KIDS’ PICTURE BOOKS THE LOST WORDS

by Robert MacFarlane and Jackie Morris Once upon a time, words began to vanish from the language of children. They disappeared so quietly that at first almost no one noticed - until one day, they were gone. But there is an old kind of magic for finding what is missing, and for summoning what has gone. If the right spells are spoken, the lost words can be brought back. The Lost Words is a joyful celebration of the poetry of nature words and the glory of the British countryside. This enchanting book captures the irreplaceable magic of language and nature for all ages.

40a Thompson Ave, Cowes P: 03 5952 1444 E: info@turnthepagebookshop.com.au W: turnthepagebookshop.com.au

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the right fit

CLEAR PATH TO GOOD HEALTH

Mindfulness is a simple, therapeutic technique with many benefits for your health.

What is it?

Mindfulness: a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations.

Why practice it?

We live in a society that encourages us to ‘do’ more which means we are busy most of the time and this may have a negative impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. Practicing mindfulness allows us to create time and space to just ‘be’.

The benefits of practicing mindfulness include reducing stress, improving health,

increasing your ability to deal with illness, reducing symptoms of depression, improved academic results, and enhanced resilience.

These benefits can be applied to personal, family and work life.

3. Sit in a comfortable position, in a chair with your feet on the floor, cross-legged, in lotus posture or you can kneel. Make sure you are able to stay in the position for the duration.

Specifically, research has found practicing mindfulness can increase brain functioning, increase immune function, lower blood pressure and heart rate, increase attention and focus, increase clarity in thinking and perception and lower anxiety levels.

4. Follow the sensation of your breath as it goes in and out of your lungs.

Getting started.

1. Find a place to sit that feels calm and quiet to you.

5. If you notice that your mind has wandered, return your attention to the breathing.

Join the YMCA for monthly Full Moon Meditation classes from December. Details available on the YMCA website or Facebook page. Bookings required. Sessions are FREE for all community members of all ages.

2. Set a time limit. If you’re just beginning, 5 or 10 minutes is a good start.

Find your fit.

With the Y, everyone can be healthier, happier and connected to their community, and help those who are not.

WONTHAGGI 41 Wentworth Rd 5672 4194

COWES 10 –14 Church St 5952 2811

www.basscoast.ymca.org.au coast 200

young & inspired as told to christina aitken photo warren reed

When she was 17, Paris Wynen shaved her head and raised more than $11,000 for research into neuroblastoma, an aggressive childhood cancer.

When I was in Year 11, I started wondering what it would be like if I shaved my head. I thought, ‘If I’m going to do it, I may as well make some money for someone’, so I contacted the You Are My Sunshine (YAMS) Foundation. When I was two I had neuroblastoma, and YAMS raises money to fund research into the disease. I’m not a hero, just curious. I wanted to know what my head felt like shaved!

When I met with Judy, the founder of YAMS, she said, ‘We’ll set you a goal of $10,000’. I’d been thinking of $1000! We fundraised on the street outside the newsagency and people came up and told me their stories. I didn’t think anyone would care if I shaved my head … I guess it was my story that made people donate. I raised around $11,500. It was fun: I really liked it. I kept shaving my head for another year or two.

I had Stage One neuroblastoma, so luckily I missed out on chemo. It was in my bowel and stomach and they managed to cut it all out. I had extra surgeries to reorganise things because they put all my organs back in wrongly. How did they manage that? I always found that entertaining.

I was in hospital for around six months. Both of my sisters were dragged out of school to take me to hospital, but all I remember is playing in the art room. My parents did their best to hide their fear.

I’ve got a couple of scars but that’s all: I’ve been lucky. For lots of people, having cancer changes

their lives forever. In a way, I feel like I can’t claim I’m a survivor – I was only two and don’t remember it.

I used to do Relay for Life every year with my family at the Cowes footy ground. You walk around the oval for 24 hours in a team.

I remember walking the survivor’s lap at the start. There was this funny old girl who’d survived cancer. She walked barefoot around the oval, yelling out, ‘Oh this grass, it’s so spiky, it’s worse than cancer!’ Everyone cracked up laughing.

I’m currently studying nursing at ACU. I live in Melbourne during the week and then I’m back on the Island to work every weekend.

I prefer it here – much more relaxed. There’s lots of fundraising here for injuries and illnesses.

If something bad happens, everyone knows that people care.

In the next five years, I hope to be working as a nurse and travelling. Maybe I’ll go to a developing country – that would be an experience. In my third year of study, I have the opportunity to do a placement in the Northern Territory. That’s something I want to try, although it might be a bit scary. It’s always been part of my family to help others and be part of the community. I guess you don’t get anything out of life unless you give something, so hopefully that’s what happens.

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where am I?

On the cusp of summer, a little winter chill still lingers in the early morning.

Driving to work, I caught the sun rising while wisps of fog rolled across the hills.

Coast photographer Warren Reed captured this stunning landscape on one of his drives.

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 Don’t forget, limited edition images such as this can be viewed and purchased at warrenreedphotography.com.au The Spring 2017 edition – Where Am I was taken at The Nobbies, Phillip Island.

Printed using vegetable based inks on an elemental chlorine free paper. Sourced using sustainable forestry practices and manufactured using the ISO 14001 environmental management systems. Coast is printed in Australia under ISO 14001 Environmental Certifications. Coast magazine has chosen to print on FSC certified stock. FSC certification ensures traceability and verification of well managed forest timber, from mill to printer to you.

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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.

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