Coast Magazine Summer 2012

magazine

Coastal living at its best! gotye man of the moment amber goldsbury surf mama building + reno your ultimate guide

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

Seagrove is Phillip Island’s premier environmentally-sensitive estate – superbly located in Cowes just 700m from a sandy, safe swimming beach and walking distance from shops, restaurants and cafes.

Master-planned by award-winning designers, Seagrove features over eight acres of landscaped parks, wetland habitat, underground services, including gas and broadband, rich birdlife and regionally significant eucalypt woodland.

Select from a range of premium home sites - up to 800m22 plus - including lots with bay views. Titles are available now so you can start building your dream home straight away.

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“sets a new benchmark for sustainable

residential development�

Urban Development Institute of Australia Awards for Excellence

Freecall 1800 61 61 06

www.seagrove.com.au coast 3

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Water Sensitive Urban Design Award Winner 2009

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Fine Dining • Weddings • Conferences • Events • Art Modern Steakhouse Restaurant • Lounge Bar • Cellar Door • Cafe & Wood-fired Pizzas • Sports Bar

81 Archies Creek Road, Archies Creek. For bookings or enquiries: 03 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au coast 6

For that intimate dinner for two, a get together with family & friends or that special occasion celebration...........

Nothing compares to Archies on theCreek........

Vibrant events, adventurous art, culinary excellence & superb functions await... coast 7

Join a solar powered sustainable community over

www.capepatersonecovillage.com.au coast 8

looking the beauty of Bass Strait

The Ecovillage will be a place where people can enjoy a strong sense of community, an active healthy lifestyle and contribute to the restoration and ecological values of the coast. The project will combine beautiful parks, ocean views and open space, walking and cycling tracks, and the light footprint solutions of modern sustainable architecture, solar energy and water sensitive design.

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Wilsons Promontory and surrounds Accommodation Booking Service

100 places to stay. Book online or phone the property.

Availability calendar and secure online bookings.

Fish Creek Farmview Cottages 4.5km to Fish Creek

Hudspeth House B&B, Meeniyan 2 blocks to the town centre

Gully Humphrey Cottage 10 minute drive to Toora

Long Jetty Caravan Park, Port Welshpool Beach Frontage

Bimbadeen Retreat 10 minute drive to Waratah Bay

Prom Coast Holiday Lodge 5 minute drive to Waratah Bay

Sabrelyn Park 10 minute drive to Waratah Bay

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Bass View Cabins, Yanakie 10 minute drive to the Prom

Black Cockatoo Cottages, Yanakie 5 minute drive to the Prom

Buln Buln Holiday Cabins, Yanakie 10 minute drive to the Prom

Elouera Cottage by the Sea, Yanakie 10 minute drive to the Prom

Prom Gate Vista Cabins, Yanakie 3 minute drive to the Prom

Tingara View Cottages, Yanakie 2 minute drive to the Prom

Vereker House, Yanakie 5 minute drive to the Prom

Wilsons Prom Retreat, Yanakie 5 minute drive to the Prom

Yanakie Caravan Park 5 minute drive to the Prom

Properties in and around all South Gippsland towns on the way to the Prom...

Fish Creek, Foster, Grand Ridge Road, Inverloch, Kilcunda, Koonwarra, Korumburra, Leongatha, Meeniyan, Mirboo North, Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Sandy Point, Tarra Bulga, Toora, Venus Bay, Walkerville, Waratah Bay, Yanakie and Yarram.

Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages, Yanakie 5 minute drive to the Prom

www.promcountry.com.au coast 11

the coast team

from the editor

publisher Maria Reed editor Sally O’Neill sub editor Anne Roussac-Hoyne

The youngest member of the Coast team is now over two years old. Miss Patika Reed constantly amazes us with her humour, insights, and rapid development as she changes day by day. Looking back on 25 editions of Coast – representing a period of three times Patika’s lifetime – I see the faces in the photographs and wonder how those people’s lives have changed in the ‘lifetime’ of Coast.

So this Summer, we celebrate the milestone of 25 editions with our usual fabulous feature articles on amazing coast characters. I first met the phenomenon Gotye backstage at a gig – his professionalism struck me then, and I knew he was a rising star. We chat to Gotye (Wally de Backer) and also look back on 87 years of life with Ruth Heffer, the human dynamo from Maru Craft in Grantville. Lou Storti, a veteran of Wonthaggi’s coalmine, recalls life in the mine, and we also meet lifesaver Trevor Clauscen who has been patrolling the beach at Woolamai for over 50 years. Our artists Fleur Speed and Janine Daddo each have stories to inspire, and we travel with Maria to an orphan village in Kenya. We present the full round-up of festivals, events and summer on the coast, our annual building and renovation feature, and much more. We wish you season’s greetings and great things in the new year.

SALLY & THE COAST TEAM

photo editor Warren Reed photography Warren Reed, Lucas Piera coast photography - 0414 753 739 design Ryan Thomas, Maria Reed print manager Nigel Quirk advertising Paul Coleman 0432 273 107 ads@coastmagazine.net

coast magazine

subscribe to coast...

Me

words Katie Cincotta, Sue Webster, Sally O’Neill, Maria Reed

PO Box 104, San Remo, Victoria 3925 Phone. (03) 5678 5600 Fax. (03) 5678 5600 Ads. 0432 273 107 Email. editorial@coastmagazine.net Web. www.coastmagazine.net Coast Magazine is published by Coast Media Pty. Ltd. on a quarterly basis.

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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.

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

All rights reserved.

SKETA AUSTRALIA

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

and stores throughout Melbourne and Noosa

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132 Whitelaw St Meeniyan VIC 3956 | Phone 5664 0055 | Please visit www.lacyjewellery.com.au coast 14

contents &features

regulars

features

16.

Coast Life

26.

30 Something – Actor Simon Russell shares his story

20.

Arts & Events

30.

Gotye – meet the man behind the mirror

22.

2 (Coast) People - Eli Curry & Simon Chipper

34.

Artist Profile – the colourful life of Janine Daddo

25.

15 minutes of fame - Carlos Checa

40.

Lifesaver – Meet Trevor Clausen

77.

What’s New this Summer (130&139)

44.

Surfer profile – Amber Goldsbury

84.

Feature area - Magic Mordialloc

48.

A living treasure – Meet the dame behind Maru Craft

98.

Where to eat guide

52.

Super Groms – meet the surfing stars of the future

100. Coast good food/wine guide

56.

Summer on the Coast – what’s going on this summer

154. Coast Lifestyle - A dream house in Inverloch

70.

Godfather of the mine – Coal miner Lou Storti

175. Coast Property

78.

Kayak Kruising – the Coast team takes to the water

194. Coast directory & stockists - Find what you need

92.

A heart’s voyage to Kenya

141. Building + Renovation – the ultimate guide

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coastlife summer

help homeless hounds

in my quiet body This new CD is a collaboration between Jo Ablett and son Zac who composed and played the music and created the graphics from Jo’s paintings. Jo created and guides the visualisations designed to introduce children to relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. The CD can be purchased for $25 from Latitude in San Remo, Angel’s Health Foods in Cowes and through Jo’s website www.intoblue.com.au

This non-profit organisation rescues dogs and cats from pounds around Victoria and NSW before they are euthanased. The dogs are then transported to foster homes until a permanent home is found.

The animals are advertised on Facebook and through the pedigree adoption drive. All animals are temperament-tested and are matched to foster carers’ needs, and all expenses are covered the organisation, which is in desperate need of foster carers. Find them on Facebook: Homeless Hounds.

head to the hills Boolarra Folk Festival is a free annual community event held in the beautiful country township of Boolarra. Enjoy the friendly, relaxed vibe and great music under the trees. There’s also a market featuring art, craft and food. Saturday 3rd March 2012.

surfing academy Newhaven College is proud to announce the formation of its Surf Academy. Newhaven has nurtured many budding surfers through the years with their surfing curriculum that offers a pathway for students interested in surf event management and perhaps taking on a professional surfing career. Offering VCE VET Sport & Recreation (Surfing) with a dedicated room for lessons, meetings, specialised coaching and guest speakers, and specific training equipment and programs, the Newhaven College Surfing Academy offers a unique opportunity for students. Please contact the College Registrar, Mrs Mary Brown, on 5956 7505 for further information and enrolment details.

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paw a little love Chrisp Pictures has again teamed up with South Gippsland Animal Aid to produce the 2012 Paw a Little Love calendar. Proceeds from each sale go directly to South Gippsland Animal Aid. Email christina@ chrisppictures.com.au, or call 0400 981 090.

bluekingbrown photo © Tajette O’Halloran

meeniyan magic “I feel like I’m in a place of prayer and song,” said acclaimed songwriter, author and poet Simone Felice when he recently performed at the gorgeous Meeniyan Hall. Lyrebird Arts Council continues to deliver fab music events for Gippsland. Become a member to enjoy receiving event information, discounts and to support such a wonderful institution. www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

Phillip Island Food Fanatics is a collective of people keen on organic fruit and vegies. They organise a weekly delivery of fresh wholesale produce from the Footscray Market to Phillip Island. The group is not-for-profit and run by volunteers. Check out their website for more info and some great recipes, too! www.foodfanatics.com.au

food fanatics

Natalie Pa’apa’a - singer, guitarist, songwriter and band leader chats to Coast…

How did Blue King Brown begin?

We started as a percussion duo on the streets of Byron Bay, then moved to Melbourne, expanded the line up significantly and started touring the country and now the world, keeping those percussive beginnings in tow.

Describe your style?

Urban Roots. Super energetic. Freedom fighters.

Your first gig?

An anti-nuclear fundraiser upstairs at the Laundry Bar in Melbourne, we were the first band on and played to about 10 people. It was awesome.

Your most memorable gig?

Touring and jamming with Santana and his band in Australia in 2008.

Is there a message in your music?

Our music carries in it our philosophies on what it’s like to be alive, from our perspective, at this point in the history of the Earth. Our social commentary and insights come from what we see and what we’ve seen travelling and meeting a wide range of members from our global community. Our songs may focus on individual issues but there is an underlying thread and that is our sentiment that it’s so important to remember that we are mentally, spiritually and physically connected to our planet and therefore to each other and all living beings on our Earth.

Our music aims to inspire and raise awareness in new minds but also to encourage and remind those people who are fighting daily to make positive change that they are not alone and that their work inspires and activates us. In turn we hope our music can return the favour and keep them energised in the battle for justice and real democracy.

Your new year’s resolution?

I don’t have one yet, but i would like to do more Yoga!

If you were Prime Minister for a day, what would you do?

I can’t answer that question simply, however I will continue to support just policies for a healthy future for our planet and our people, and I believe that’s something we all should and can do with the resources at our fingertips and our ever advancing technology, whether we’re Prime Minister or not.

Blue King Brown will be performing at the amazing WOAMDelaide World Music Festival in 2012 along with a stellar lineup of artists from around the world. www.womadelaide.com.au

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coastlife summer

waterfront wonderland Jill and Gary Butterfield are living the dream on a beautiful property at Waratah Bay overlooking the exquisite international icon of Wilsons Promontory. For 12 years they have shared this coastal wonderland with guests staying at their four coastal cottages. The Butterfield’s decision to take an early retirement has opened up an opportunity to share in this coastal paradise. With absolute beach frontage and beautiful native gardens, 4 contemporary, fully selfcontained cottages along with a three-bedroom managers residence (or group accommodation) is up for offer. This special property could appeal to family groups or friends to share in this dream, or to continue as a growing concern.

For more details, log onto the online brochure www.ljhooker.com.au/1FEH58

dinosaur dreaming takin’ it to the streets

Inverloch-based radio station 3mFM recently took their studio to the South Gippsland Lions Club Dairy Expo at the Korumburra Showgrounds. The team broadcast live from 10am-2pm bringing all the action to 3mFM listeners on the radio and web.

Outside broadcasts are a great way to promote your business or event. Contact 3mFM for more details. www.3mfm.com.au

15 and focussed Claire Davie and Craig Justice are two Phillip Island locals who share a love of photography. Phillip Island Winery recently gave the pair the opportunity to mount their own exhibition. “We didn’t really want to have a theme,” says Claire. “We just wanted to show the world through our eyes. Because both of our families have been on Phillip Island for generations, our images reflected that. We feel so lucky – it was such a great experience for us!”

cambodia healing Phillip Islanders Chris Dallinger and partner Courtney recently travelled to Cambodia because they wanted to help orphans there.

The couple found a relatively new orphanage called CDO (Children and Development Organization) in Siem Reap, home to the world’s largest religious building, Angkor Wat. During their time there, they donated over $1000 worth of building materials, mattresses, pillows, school books, school bags and toys, and spent time helping to build shelters, giving impromptu English lessons and playing games with the children. “The kids make so much fun out of the smallest things.

Although they have very little, they are very happy, and the littlest donation can make a massive difference.” www.cdochildren.org

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Each summer, intrepid paleontologists flock to the Bunurong coast to dig for fossil bones. Over the years, many different animals including at least five types of dinosaur as well as the fossil bones of other reptiles, birds, mammals and fish, have been found at the Flat Rocks site. Find out more about the Dinosaur Dig at the Bunurong Environment Centre in Inverloch. Corner of Ramsay Boulevard and The Esplanade, Inverloch.

Photo: Lesley Kool

Mossvale Park

One Perfect Day March 17 2012

www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

Celebrate ten years of mighty Mossvale!

The Dirty Three Formed in Melbourne in 1991, this violin-led trio has earned an international fanbase through years of relentless touring and spellbinding performances.

AHAB (UK) The Bamboos (Aust) Charles Bradley & His Extraordinaires (USA)

Discovered at the age of 62 by Daptone records, he delivers one of the most amazing & soulful performances you’ll ever see.

Australia’s greatest modern Funk & Soul band,the Bamboos have a unique sound of their own, combining elements of oldschool funk, hip hop, Mod rock, psychedelic & northern soul.

Krystle Warren (USA) “Krystle’s voice is an extraordinary instrument, murmuring with tenderness at times, growling with intensity at others... “ - The Guardian

Sal Kimber & The Rollin’ Wheel (Aust) Eric Bibb & Stefan Astner (USA & Sweden) With masterful musicianship and trademark velvet voice, Eric Bibb will be accompanied by the beautiful guitar of Stefan Astner to some weave musical magic.

Ben Sollee (USA) Ben is a genre-bending cellist and vocalist known for his percussive playing style, genre hopping songwriting, wide appeal, and political activism.

Described by Rolling Stone as “Australiana-soaked alt-country at its finest”, Sal Kimber & The Rollin’ Wheel have been winning hearts at shows and festivals around the country.

Cited as the best thing since Mumford & Sons, their gorgeous melodies, soaring harmonies and masterful songwriting are worth raving about.

Liz Stringer & Van Walker (Aust) It is appropriate to have these songwriters sharing the stage at Mossvale for our tenth anniversary........something not to be missed!

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Past & Present Exhibition by Judith Garde When: 3 – 27 Dec Where: Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au Binn’s Track - Yvonne Renfree and Carol Monson (textiles) with Trevor Renfree and Russell Monson (photos) When: 23 Dec – 19 Jan Where: Meeniyan Art Gallery, 84 Whitelaw St Meeniyan Who: Call 5664 0101 www.meeniyanartgallery.org.au Open Mic at Archies on the Creek When: 18 Dec Where: Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au ‘Quiet Down’ - new paper & glass works by Sarah Dingwall When: 18 Dec – 21 Jan Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au

december 2011 Footprints – The Journey of Lucy and Percy Pepper When: Until 20 Dec Where: Coal Creek Community Gallery, Korumburra Who: Call Suzanne 5655 1811 coalcreekvillage.com.au snAPP! - Mobile Phone Camera Art When: Until 17 Dec Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Seldom Seen Fantasies by Kathy Salmons When: 1 Dec – 27 Feb Where: Leongatha Art + Craft Gallery Cnr Michael Place+ McCartin St, Leongatha Who: Call 5662 5370 Jo Darvall landscapes and etchings When: Dec-March Where: Mingara Gallery 242 Thompson Ave, Cowes Who: Call 5952 3722 www.mingaragallery.com.au Arty Farty Christmas Art Show When: 9-10 Dec Where: 21 Second Ave, Cape Woolamai Who: www.artyfarty.com.au Mt Eliza Christmas Fair When: Sat 10 Dec 2-7pm Where: Streets and laneways of Mt Eliza Who: Alison Doherty, Event Coordinator 0487 649 204 www.mtelizavillage.com.au Kongwak Market When: Dec 4 & 11 from 10am. NOTE: Closed Sun 18 Dec & Sun 25 Dec Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478 Sculpture in the Vineyard - 19 Artists show their work When: 11 Dec – 29 Jan Where: Lyre Bird Hill Winery, Koonwarra-Inverloch Rd Who: Call Angela 5668 8213

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Pyramid Rock Festival When: 29 Dec – 1 Jan 2011 Where: Pyramid Rock, Phillip Island Who: www.thepyramidrockfestival.com Red Hill Community Market When: 1st Saturday of every month from Dec - May Where: Arthur’s Seat Rd, Red Hill Who: Red Hill Community Market & Red Hill Lions Club http://www.craftmarkets.com.au Coal Creek Farmers’ Market When: Second Sat of each month 8am - 12:30pm Where: Coal Creek Community Park carpark, Korumburra Who: Call Suzanne 5655 1811 coalcreekvillage.com.au

january 2012 Kustom Nationals When: 6-8 Jan Where: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Who: www.kustoms.com.au Bass Coast Agricultural Show When: Sat 14 Jan, 9 am – 5 pm Where: Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve Who: Rosemary Loughnan, 5672 3259www.basscoastagshow. org.au Woolamai Picnic Races When: 8 Jan, 21 Jan, 11 Feb (Cup) & 25 Feb Where: Trews Rd, Woolamai Who: 5678 2344 www.countryracing.com.au Cowes Night Market: Where: Cowes foreshore, Phillip Island Time: 5pm – 9pm Dates: 14 Jan + 27 Jan, 18 Feb, 10 March & 7 April Who: Anne Marie Emanuele 5952 1131 www.cowesnightmarket.org.au 2011 Australian 4WD Mud Racing Championships When: 9 Jan, 11 am Where: Dalyston Recreation Reserve, Tulloch St. Who: Hans Kamphuis 0418 529 310 www.a4wdmra.com.au

Inkworks - printmaking from Lyndy Lord, Amanda Thompson & Elisabeth Scott.

When: Jan 22 - Feb 18 Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au Fibernaut - installations, sculptures & prints by Leslie Monahan When: 20 Jan - 16 Feb Where: Meeniyan Art Gallery, 84 Whitelaw St Meeniyan Who: Call 5664 0101 www.meeniyanartgallery.org.au Thomas Trinkl Exhibition When: 7-28 Jan Where: Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au A Day at the Cape When: Sat 21 Jan, 9am – 4pm Where: Cape Paterson Bay Beach Who: Lisa Archibald, 0417 008 729 Kilcunda Lobster Festival When: Sun 29 Jan, 9am – 5pm Where: Kilcunda foreshore Contact: Call 0400 045 130 kcda@waterfront.net.au Cranbourne Rodeo When: Sat 28 Jan Where: 1450 Ballarto Rd, Clyde Who: www.cranbournerodeo.com.au Kongwak Market When: Every Sunday Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478

february 2012 Ships that Shaped Australia - The Jack Koskie Exhibition When: 3 Feb – 31 Mar Where: Coal Creek Community Gallery, Korumburra Who: Call Suzanne 5655 1811 coalcreekvillage.com.au Phillip Island Superbike World Championship When: 24-26 Feb Where: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Who: www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au Multifold Narrations - Frank Wildenberg When: 19 Feb – 24 Mar Where: Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek Who: Kerry and Michael 5683 2481 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au

Bunyip Country Music Festival When: 26 Feb Where: Bunyip Recreation Reserve, Nar Nar Goon-Longwarry Rd, Bunyip Who: Call 56295388 San Remo Channel Challenge When: Sat 11 Feb Where: San Remo foreshore Who: www.basscoast.vic.gov.au Foster Agricultural Show When: Saturday 25 Feb, 9am – 4pm Where: Foster Showgrounds, Station Road, Foster Who: Denis O’Neill 5611 7980 Kongwak Market When: Every Sunday Where: Kongwak General Store Who: Jane 0417 142 478

march preview World’s Longest Lunch - Phillip Island When: 2 Mar 12 - 4pm Where: Rhyll Trout & Bush Tucker Farm, 36 Rhyll-Newhaven Road, Rhyll, Phillip Island.

Who: Call 1300 366 422 www.visitphillipisland.com Glass Exhibition by Marlene Kasper When: 3-25 March Where: Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au Boolarra Folk Festival When: Sat 3 March Where: Railway Park and Centenary Park, Boolarra Who: www.boolarrafolkfestival.com Inverloch Food and Wine Festival When: 3 Mar 10.30am – 5.30pm Where: The Glade, Inverloch Who: www.visitinverloch.com Inverloch Jazz Fest When: Fri 9 – Mon 12 Mar Where: Inverloch Town Who: www.inverlochjazzfestival.com Port Fairy Folk Festival When: 9-12 Mar Where: Port Fairy Who: www.portfairyfolkfestival.com

Rustic & Rural Paintings by Robyn Rinehart When: 5-26 Feb Where: Archies on the Creek Who: Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au

Music Fest for Phillip Island When: 11 Mar Where: Phillip Island Winery, 414 Berrys Rd, Ventnor Who: Call 5956 8465 www.destinationphillipisland.org.au

Littoral Shapes - sculptures by John Carlson When: 17 Feb – 15 Mar Where: Meeniyan Art Gallery, 84 Whitelaw St Meeniyan Who: Call 5664 0101 www.meeniyanartgallery.org.au

Mossvale Park Music Festival When: Sat 17 Mar Where: Mossvale Park Rd, Berry’s Creek Who: www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au/mossvale

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Simon Chipper travels six months each year and spends the other six surfing and teaching on Phillip Island. He and son Eli find their common ground in the surf, travel and their deep respect for each other‌

coast people

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words as told to sally o’neill photo warren reed

Simon Chipper I was born in New Zealand and my parents decided to settle in Australia. I grew up in Sydney, just across the water from Taronga Park Zoo – in fact I’d wake up in the morning to the sound of lions roaring.

My parents loved the beach, so we were always swimming, riding rubber mats and that sort of thing. As soon as I saw a surfboard, I knew I wanted to try it. I got a surfboard for my thirteenth birthday. My first wave was at Manly Beach on an old 9-foot board. I still remember the smell of the wax, the colour of the board and the feeling of running along like on ball bearings – it was a fabulous experience.

I moved in with a couple of mates on the northern beaches when I was 16. I started work as a copy boy and then cadet photographer with the Daily Mirror, mainly doing the night shift so I could go surfing. A friend of mine was working as a sub-editor on a magazine called Tracks, and when the photographer left, he offered me the job. I took it, much to my parents’ disappointment that I had left a legit job on a newspaper to work on a surfing magazine. It was a great job, but lousy money.

But I’ve always had the idea that money is not important – it’s more important that you enjoy yourself. I covered the Australian legs of the competitions, (they couldn’t afford the airfares for the international legs!). It was a wonderful part of my job to see the world’s best surfers doing amazing things in Australia’s best waves. It was a tonne of fun. It was also the birth of pro surfing, so a lot of guys who are now mythical figures were in their prime.

When I finally realised that working this job wouldn’t pay the bills, I left the magazine and got a job as a builder’s labourer so I could also pursue the surfing thing. I ended up working as an orderly in a large hospital and met Jo who would become my wife. We were in love, and Eli soon arrived. Sydney was a bit crowded so we decided to head to the country. Some friends of ours had travelled around Australia and settled in Wonthaggi and really loved it, so we thought we would go and have a look. We came down, I had great waves and we saw a house for $10,000. So we went back to Sydney, loaded our life into the family car and took the plunge and headed south when Eli was one!

It was a choice between Sunderland Bay for $20,000 or a house in Wonthaggi surrounded by paddocks, and we finally chose Wonthaggi as I found a job there. It has beautiful beaches: my favourite is Williamson’s Beach where the desal plant is now. I had a funny experience there recently – I had a surf and came out into a traffic jam – first gear all the way to the main road. That road used to be very rough: you’d hardly see another person there.

My first memory of Eli is of him being born. During her labour, I remember Jo punching me and saying this was all my fault! He was always happy and extremely social – he’s very much a people person.

We went to the beach all the time when he was young, but we were always carrying stuff and walking over sand dunes: it was hard yakka. I tried to get him into surfing, but didn’t push too hard. When his mates started surfing, it became more fun for him. He was a good teenager comparatively – he’s always been pretty damn sensible.

We worked hard to pay off the small loan on the house and this was a very good lesson for Eli – to live within your means. Then we went to Timor for two months. It was a wonderful thing to do as a family: it took us out of who we were. When you are at home, you are Eli’s dad … when you are overseas, you are just yourself and people accept you for who you are. There were also smoking waves including a machine-like left-hander which gave Eli the chance to get good really quickly… and he did.

Travelling and surfing are the best things we have done together. When we first started surfing together, people would say to him, ‘Oh, you’re Simon’s son’ and now they say to me, ‘Oh, you’re Eli’s dad’.

Eli’s mother unfortunately died way too early. She was such an influence

in our lives. The sad part is that she didn’t get to see the full story of Eli, and she was really angry about that! It was a long and devastating illness, but because we had each other we made it through. Neither of us fell apart because we had each other. The only good thing to come out of it was that it was a wake-up call to everybody. You have to live your life; you can’t wait until later.

A single word to sum Eli up would be ‘empathetic’. He tries to see what is important in other people’s lives and what motivates them and treats them accordingly.

He is a real inspiration to me, with his attitude to situations and people, and the way he carries himself. I think we are here to create better children than we are. I feel really proud that, together, his mother and I have done that.

Eli Curry My first memory of Dad is looking through the glass front door waiting for him to come home when I was really little. Luckily, I was surfing from a very young age, and we were at the beach all the time. Mum and Dad were very beach orientated. Playing in the water then matured into surfing. I have very vivid memories of my first wave – Dad pushed me into it and I rode the white water and stepped over a little double-up – I thought it was awesome.

Dad was always very supportive of my surfing, but he never pushed me. Initially I was not entirely comfortable with the ocean and he’d take me where I wanted to go even though it was probably not where he wanted to go – and now it’s sort of vice versa!

I’m totally in awe of Dad’s lifestyle. He lives a simple life. He doesn’t drive a flash car; he’s built his own house – he has a very basic lifestyle. I moved over to Phillip Island as all my surfing mates are here. The house in Wonthaggi holds a lot of special memories for Dad. Mum passed in 2003, so that will always be a special spot for him. Her passing bought us even closer together.

I work at an adventure resort. I used to work in Leongatha at a disability care centre for people with extremely high needs. I’m not going to beat around the bush: it was tough. But, in the end it was the travel that got me. Disability care is a big passion for me: we get groups with disabilities where I work now and it’s a real buzz.

Dad’s lifestyle is great. I want to follow in his footsteps, be outdoors and be around young people.

Dad’s very understanding and always extremely calm. I wasn’t a hellraiser teenager or anything, but he’d always deal with situations in a cool, calm, collected manner. Hopefully I can carry that on – that’s one of his attributes I really respect.

He’s very level-headed – he’s made smart decisions to create a great lifestyle. There will probably be a time when I will chase the dollar a little bit, but after losing your mother, you realise life is for living – it’s not for slaving away. I would rather enjoy life in my prime surfing and travelling.

I don’t have the nest egg mentality, but who cares?

We’ve travelled a fair but together, and when I was a kid, we had a van and did road trips to places like Cactus – Mum didn’t surf but just loved the beach. Later, we went to Indonesia: Mum’s ashes are actually spread over there.

I’m looking forward to more travel and good times together. I could not respect a man more than I do my dad. He’s given me everything. All my mates are mates with my dad. It’s not really like a father-son relationship – we talk like mates do, and there’s no awkwardness. I know he’s always there if I need advice. He’s been a huge positive influence on my life.

If I had to use one word to describe Dad, it would be ‘hero’. If I can be like him, then that’s what I want to be.

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Known as ‘King Carlos’, Carlos Checa Carrera is the current world Superbike Champion. At 39, he has raced professionally for nearly twenty years, participating in championships such as 125cc, 250cc, 500cc, MotoGP and Superbikes.

fifteenminutesoffame words as told to sally o’neill photo supplied

Where did you grow up?

In a small town called Sant Fruitos de Bages, outside Barcelona in Spain. It is a very small place with about 8000 people and everyone knows each other. In June this year, the town council built a statue in my honour. My family and friends still live there, and the town held a big party for me after I won the world title! I am very close to my mother, father and brother David, who also races bikes. My father and brother were at the track to see me win the title – Mum was too nervous to watch, so she waited at home.

Your first memory?

A feeling of freedom.

Your first ride?

My father bought me a Mecatecno when I was ten. I had to learn how to pick locks, though, because my father wouldn’t let me ride it if he wasn’t around – and I wanted to ride all the time!

Describe the feeling of becoming world champion: did it change your life?

It is the perfect reward after so many years of hard work. I don’t know if winning has changed my life, but the path to get here has taught me many things!

What do you love about your homeland?

The weather and the food.

How do you relax and switch off from bikes?

In my spare time I read a lot, and enjoy sports such as skydiving, cycling and horseriding. I spend a lot of time in the Pyrenees, so I can train in different ways such as climbing, mountain biking, hiking and skiing.

Do you have to make a lot of sacrifices for your profession?

A few – but this is the life I have chosen.

I travel a lot and miss family and friends when I’m away, but that’s the price I pay.

I’m lucky because I like to do all kinds of sports and I like to eat healthily, so training comes quite easily to me.

Your hero?

Wayne Rainey, one of motorsport’s greats.

Your philosophy?

My ‘philosophy’, if you can call it that, is to continue to grow and learn more with every experience that I have. Each racing season I try to work our how to be a better rider, as well as a better person.

What do you enjoy about Phillip Island?

The weather, the space – and the track, of course! My favourite part of the track this year was the finish line! I didn’t really expect a win to come so early, let alone a double win, although I knew we’d done a lot of groundwork and that we were in a good starting position for this season. That first round in Australia was really special. When I’m in Australia I like to make the most of the good weather, so I go cycling a lot. There are also loads of places to surf, though I’m no expert! Around Phillip Island we are always made to feel very welcome. The people are very friendly and I think most riders, me included, really enjoy racing there.

Your most memorable moment?

I would have to say winning the 2011 SBK title! There will be some tough competition in 2012 but I’m looking forward to the challenge.

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something

30 simon russell

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Just 30-something, actor Simon Russell has found his place in a challenging industry.

In a career spanning more than 15 years, Simon has played a diverse range of roles on stage, television, film and radio. This self-taught actor isn’t limited to a particular genre – he has tackled the serious stuff, been hilarious on many episodes of ‘Thank God You’re Here’, and done most things in between.

Simon recently featured in the ABC2 comedy ‘Twentysomething’. We laugh as we recall some of the funny moments on the show. And, even though Simon played the ‘sensible older brother’, his comic timing and character development hit the mark perfectly.

“We are really lucky in Australia that the industry, as small as it is, does really interesting projects that need interesting characters. I’m not that sort of ‘leading man, good-looking guy’, so I’ve never angled myself towards that,” says Simon over a cup of herbal tea – he’s currently having a go at a detox diet. Having tried exercise, he’s decided this may be more to his liking.

Is there pressure on male actors about their looks? “I always say if I have to take my top off in a show, I need at least six months’ warning so I can get buff!” he jokes. Speaking of buff, it’s not unusual for Simon to be competing with male models at an audition. “I just laugh – it puts me in an interesting position as I stand out a bit more. But it’s often the roles you think you are not going to get that are offered to you. It amazes me every time.”

The rollercoaster of auditions, waiting, work… and no work… is familiar to all actors. After a rocky start (more on that later), Simon now finds himself consistently employed. And he’s come to terms with the fact that he is allowed to have a ‘back-up plan’ job. His is a graphic design business started when a friend asked him to design a logo – although he is completely untaught, it worked well and his natural talents have developed from there.

“I remember an older actress saying: ‘If you have a back-up job, you’re not really an actor.” So he often felt really guilty about taking on other work. “But then a director I often work with said: ‘In what other profession can a person survive mentally and financially on a couple of months’ work a year?’ I have>

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to be realistic – I have bills to pay.”

Born in Dandenong, Simon’s primary education was colourful and multicultural. The family moved to Phillip Island and he started high school. “Coming from a school of 400 kids with every nationality under the sun to a school with one nationality and only 30 kids in the class was a culture shock. I might have thought I was a bit better than some people, but I was very quickly brought down to earth!”

His initial aspirations were in the direction of psychology and law rather than the performing arts. In fact, when he first took a drama class in high school, he was horrified. “We had to pretend to walk through jelly, and I thought it was bullshit!” But, much to his mother’s disappointment, “something clicked” in about year 9 or 10. “I went and saw a few theatre shows in the city and thought yeah – this is really good.” Aspirations toward the law were put on hold. “Mum still is devastated by that! She still puts brochures for Monash Uni in my bag and says it’s never too late.”

Simon emerged as a rising star on Phillip Island, singing and acting in school shows and local theatre. He was well known for his singing, but has now traded that talent for acting. (“My last singing gig was New Year’s Eve at the Windsor. We did a few jazz sets. I just decided I couldn’t sing those same songs anymore! Then an old lady shoved fifty bucks in my pocket and I thought: ‘I’ve got to change my scene!’ ”) In year 12, he landed a part playing a boy with leukemia in the Melbourne Theatre Company production of ‘Away’. His first day on the set goes down as the most memorable of his career – and not for all the right reasons. He “bluffed” his way through the morning, and after lunch when he asked everyone to check their shoes because there was a funny smell in the room, he was the guy with the doggy-doo on his shoe! On the drive home from rehearsal he nearly killed an innocent colleague who had hitched a ride. He had only been driving for one day! “It was a baptism of fire – probably the most memorable day of my career so far!”

With the disastrous first day over, the show went on to be a hit and Simon tasted fame and fortune. “I was being paid really well, and I went nuts – I bought designer clothes, presents for people and went partying …it was crazy. I finished the show owing $800.”

Despite landing himself an agent, a year later he’d hardly had an audition. “I went from working for the biggest theatre company in the state to doing nothing at all. I was the best-dressed guy in the dole queue!”

That year he hit rock bottom, living in a horrible share-house “with two ultra religious nuts and no telly. I’d just sit there staring at the wall

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trying to figure out ways to be an actor.” He didn’t know how. Did he just wait for the agent to call? “I used to literally wait for the phone – I’d pick it up to make sure it was working and if it rang, I’d rush to it in anticipation. Mum would call and I’d say: “Get off the phone: Hollywood might be calling!” One day he broke down at a tram stop. “I had no money, I owed everyone and didn’t know what to do. I just went through this hideous disbelief in myself.”

Simon spent a few weeks on Phillip Island to “regroup” and then braved the city once more with a new house, new agent and new outlook.

Second time around, he discovered that to be an actor you have to create your own opportunities. “It’s a real partnership – you and your agent make things happen. You can’t sit on your bum and wait.”

Momentum gathered: he took to the stage and then a bank ad led to parts in ‘Blue Heelers’, ‘Stingers’, ‘Neighbours’ and then his first regular TV roles in ‘Thank God You’re Here’ and ‘Twentysomething’.

“As an actor you have to be prepared for highs and lows – I’ve been doing it for nearly 16 years, so I’m used to it now. One minute you have so much work, then suddenly there’s none… and no money. It is really hard not to take it personally – especially in the beginning.”

Simon and his “incredibly supportive” wife Alana decided to move to Phillip Island when their cosy, one-child family that fitted perfectly into a St Kilda apartment grew to five with the birth of twins. “Career-wise it was a big decision to live on Phillip Island, but it was no decision kidswise – we are 300 metres from the beach and they love it.”

Life on the coast also helps to maintain perspective. “I try not to limit my friends to just people from the industry: even though other actors try to be supportive, inevitably it gets competitive. If you live in that world constantly you lose touch with reality. Acting isn’t glamorous – it’s just hard work. There are seriously early mornings and 15-hour days – but at the same time we’re not performing brain surgery! Actors who take themselves too seriously get on my nerves!”

Breaking in to the overseas market does not appear to be a lure for Simon. “It’s been suggested, but for now I’m regularly employed and quite happy here. I’m not going to walk out on my family for a month just on the off-chance.”

I suggest that the story of his rocky beginnings in the industry would form the basis of a good comedy script. “Yes, that has been suggested,” he concurs. “Perhaps I could write something one day – but every time I sit down to think about it I get the shakes and start to sweat a lot - it makes the pen far too slippery to hold!”

(Note: Simon tells me that at the time of publication, he has given up the herbal detox diet and has returned to coffee and booze!)

SOUTHERN

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Retro - Antiques - Art - Quality used furniture Located in a massive warehouse at 42 Cashin St Inverloch (behind Mitre 10) Ph Wendy White on 0409 234 482 coast 29

Coast took a few minutes to chat with the man of the musical moment, Wally de Backer, (AKA Gotye), about music, performing live, new year’s resolutions and op-shopping‌

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man in the mirror man in the mirror

Gotye words sally o’neill photos supplied

Gotye’s smash hit ‘Somebody That I Used To Know’ has already gone platinum and the album Making Mirrors is destined to finish 2011 on a high note.

Your first musical memory?

It would have to be a song from Sesame Street. When I was about five or six, I used to record songs from the show onto my much-loved stereo tape recorder. I’d set it up with the microphone in front of the speaker and record it and then make my own radio shows and listen to them later.

How did your parents influence who you have become?

My parents were not overbearing in any way: they never set me up or urged me to be creative – they just let me follow my heart, to use a stereotypical phrase. For a good part of my childhood I was just happy billy-carting and riding my bike and was obsessed with video games – on Nintendo and the PC. Was it a risk to choose music full time?

I took a big risk in 2006 when I still hadn’t quite been paid some of the royalties I was owed. I was working in a library in the south-eastern suburbs when I decided to quit my job and move back to my folks’ place for a while to save on rent. I just eked out a living while I tried to work out how to play my music live. That was kind of a struggle and a transition period where I thought I probably wouldn’t be able to sustain a career in music and would have to go and find another job. But I’ve been lucky that it’s been going from strength to strength since then.

I’ve been a full-time musician for five years now.

How does it feel to have gone from recording in your lounge room under a doona to the world stage?

It’s exciting. The pressure sometimes feels a bit overwhelming.

Especially with a record like mine at the moment that crosses over into a broader audience, I feel there is even more sense of anticipation.

About performing live?

I have high aspirations for everything I do – but I never really intended to push the live side with the Gotye project. The way I put my music together in the studio is so finicky and complex, but I’ve never been naturally drawn to the incredible amount of work that goes into putting a large band together and producing a live show. It’s a completely different experience from making a record. It’s really challenging just keeping the energy up. You have good shows and bad shows and sometimes you feel like you’ve let yourself down. I feel I’m now striking a balance with my performances, but it does get you down. I’ve seen some negative comments on Twitter here and there and I think, ‘Ohh, I worked so hard’. But you also get people saying ‘Best show I’ve ever seen’. You get that and everything in between. >

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Gotye will be performing at The Pyramid Rock Festival, Dec 29 – Jan 1 www.thepyramidrockfestival.com

When I’m recording in the studio I’m in a bit of another world. I’m kind of completely unselfconscious, which is a really nice feeling.

What does your new album mean to you?

I felt really good: there was a sense of relief when it came out. It’s the first time I’ve licensed a record to a label, and there’s a certain satisfaction in handing everything over – it’s done and finished and being manufactured. There were moments when I was making this record where I felt like I wouldn’t get over the line and I wouldn’t have enough to offer. It was a real up-and-down experience for me: sometimes I was feeling really depressed, sometimes feeling really happy with everything I’d put together, especially key songs I was really proud of.

Would you say the album has a happy vibe?

I think it starts in a quite frustrated, dejected space and takes until about six songs in, until ‘I Feel Better’, to become very exuberant and playful and more open and free – then there’s a sense of hopefulness. It’s weird when people say that the song ‘Somebody I Used To Know’ makes them feel great, because it’s an angst-y, bitter song about something hurtful to me – it feels peculiar when people say, ‘I love the way I feel when I hear this song.’ On the one hand it’s kind of cool that people are connecting with what you do, but…

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Where are you when on stage?

When I’m recording in the studio I’m in a bit of another world. I’m kind of completely unselfconscious, which is a really nice feeling. Sometimes I can achieve that feeling on stage, but it’s not always easy with 1000 people looking at me. It’s a bit of a struggle, and there’s an internal monologue which means I don’t genuinely let go or step outside of myself in some songs. But sometimes I get there and it’s really good.

You come down after the song and there’s applause and you think, ‘I’ve just been away for the last four minutes’.

If you could be born in any musical era, which would you choose?

There is the nostalgic part of me that thinks it would be awesome to be living through the early to middle to late sixties because so much happened then in terms of the way recording techniques changed, as well as new instruments, electronic music and the first mass approach synthesizers like the Moog coming out. It was such an exciting period.

But the present day has so much interesting music in so many fractured and niche genres and different directions. And there are so many ways to make and disseminate music and for people to access and comment on it. I think that is really great.

If you could play with anyone, who would it be?

It would be earth-shatteringly awesome, but potentially kind of devastating, to play with Prince. He is the most amazing singer, guitarist, dancer, drummer, instrumentalist and pop songwriter – to play some music with him would be awesome.

What do you love about the coast?

I grew up in Montmorency but my parents bought a block on the Mornington Peninsula in 1990. They came down regularly and I’d come with them. They eventually moved down permanently. I really fell in love with the place and this is where I wanna be, too. The coast is great!

Your new year’s resolution?

I’ve never really done resolutions, but if I did have one it would be to be less busy, to make sure I say ‘no’ at the right times, and leave myself the headspace to enjoy what I’m doing in my life rather than always be under pressure.

Best op-shop find?

I once found a real treasure-trove of mid-sixties Moog records. When the Moog synth [synthesiser] came out it was a real phenomenon, and as a result, heaps of American artists put out Moog music records – like songs of the Beatles and Burt Bacharach. Some are incredibly cheesy and some are really progressive and have fantastic sounds on them. I found one dude’s entire personal collection – ten records for one dollar each – and I was like: ‘Wooh hoo!’

What are you looking forward to?

I just want to take the Gotye show to a whole new level. I’ve got a lot of touring overseas and in Australia, and then I’ll finish the year with the Pyramid Rock Festival, which will be great. My live performances will be a big part of next year, and if I can stay creative and produce stuff for my girlfriend Tash, or friends, that would also be fab – but I get the feeling I might be too busy for that…

Gotye will be performing at the Pyramid Rock Festival. We have 1 Full Pass to give away. Email editorial@coastmagazine.net and tell us why you would love to go in 30 words or less by Dec 20 2011.

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

Tel. 5678 7346 Mob. 0412 105 841 Also represented at Mingara Gallery, Cowes

Anita Stepano Ross_v1.indd 1

11/11/11 11:01 AM

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The whimsical, wonderful art of Janine Daddo is all about cherishing moments and the connections we make in life. The self-confessed ‘big picture gal’ tells us about life, symbolism and love . . .

words maria reed photos supplied & maria reed

janine daddo coast 35

“I just had a birthday and I got a whole lot of cards from people that said, ‘Life’s about the journey, not the destination’. It made me laugh, because I’m not that type of person. I’m always . . . ‘In six months’ time I’ll be . . .’ or ‘In a year I’ll be . . .’ People say, ‘Enjoy yourself today’, and I do, but I’ve always got a plan in mind,” she laughs.

And that’s a good thing, considering the prolific artist has grown and developed her talent over 15 years by being driven, thinking ahead and painting every day. Janine is often asked how long it takes to complete a painting. Breaking into a laugh, she says, “I’m almost painting my next painting whilst I’m working on the current one. I’m in the moment with that piece, but ideas are constantly forming and I’ll start to imagine . . .

Wouldn’t that look wild on that piece? – so I’m working on many things at once.”

As a child, Janine loved to draw and colour in, but always found it hard to work within the confines of what ‘kids were supposed to do.’

“I remember in kinder they’d tell us to do ‘this’, and I’d be, ‘Oh yes, but I could do ‘that’ . . .!’ ” Always arty, Janine found her time at MLC (Methodist Ladies College) challenging. “I loved the social side but I didn’t really fit in the mainstream academic program.” Her parents sent her to a more alternative school, Kingswood College in Box Hill, where she thrived. “I was a bit like a cannonball going off. We got to wear casual clothes, call the teachers by their first names, and choose which subjects we wanted to go to.” But it wasn’t just the freedom that set her imagination on fire. It was the first time she had the opportunity to do art at school. It was a subject called Visual Communication and Design - and that set her creative wheels in motion. She finally found her ability to draw could act as a means of communication, rather than just producing a ‘pretty picture’. She’d found her language.

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Finally feeling she had some kind of academic worth, she went on to a Tertiary Orientation Program at Box Hill. “I was like a kid in a candy shop! With 23 subjects to choose from – anything from ceramics to printmaking and photography – it was just incredible.” For the first time she found herself working alongside industry professionals such as photographers and graphic designers. She recalls being absolutely awestruck when she watched her first photographic image appear in the darkroom tray. “I met many gifted people and I came to realise how amazing it was to be given this inherent ability to be artistic or creative,” she says.

She was accepted into Fine Arts at RMIT in the days when it was a “really grotty old building that was a potential fire hazard”, she laughs. “All the art disciplines were on different levels, and fine art was on the top floor. . . and I just loved it.” However, her father was concerned with Janine’s employment prospects. She reflects, “He thought being an artist was a bit of an indulgence, like being a poet or some such, but not a career.”

After some discussion Janine transferred to Graphic Art & Design, which turned out to be a very insightful decision. “It was amazing – I felt like I was back at school doing visual communication, and it just made sense. We learnt to paint and illustrate, even spent hours on life drawing and landscape painting. The thing I loved the most (and had never been privy to before) was working with real businesses. We’d find a project – it may have been launching a new product, or designing a brand or new signage. It was so exciting and it was more mature in a way. We had to present concepts and make them financially viable,” she says.

After a year off, she came back to a job at Myer in the advertising department. “I was referred to as ‘The Wrist’,” she laughs, “as I could draw up all the required advertising concepts.” Back in the day, illustrations took the place of photography, and she was very adept at drawing with

an eye for detail. Though enjoying the work, she found it a bit restrictive and finite, and explains, “It gave me such a strong work ethic and understanding of time and deadlines, that in the end, it was very valuable.”

This gave her a start in advertising that would span a career of over 16 years.

She loved the challenge of being part of a large team to produce a dynamic ad campaign. “As a designer, I met all these different people from musos and voiceover people to models and photographers who were all just little pieces of a puzzle, all working to create a fantastic campaign.” During this time she also painted background sets and storyboards for film directors, which she says “were a bit of fun!” She was still itching to paint, and more than once she would tell her colleagues that one day she’d have an exhibition . . .

When Janine fell pregnant with her first child she decided to take a few years off. “ I was so into being a parent,” she says. She started to paint again and spent time learning how to apply paint to canvas and paper without feeling inhibited.

“I remember meeting a mum from my kids’ school who was a ‘real artist’, and it was quite daunting!” she recalls. They soon became friends and shared a studio in one of the old sheds on her friend’s property. “That’s basically how all the painting started, and I became hooked!” That was over 14 years ago and she hasn’t looked back.

The stillbirth of her beloved third child Hudson awakened a desire to explore people’s relationships through art. “It was all about cherishing the connections and moments you do have, rather than regretting the ones you don’t. It’s about painting an expression of honesty, I guess,” she shrugs. After years of life drawing, the artist still struggled to draw faces, so, she says, “I kind of developed a generic platform for people – it wasn’t any particular race, size or colour – that everyone could see or imagine themselves in. Her paintings are often inspired by the people she has met, the things she’s done, or something as simple as a colour or a lyric from a song. “I’d just read a book by a man who said you could survive with only 13 things, and it got me thinking about an idea that translated into a series about moving house. When the kids were growing up, a lot of the work was about being in the bath, or sitting on a chair and having to behave, and the chair becoming something more dynamic within the work – it’s drawing from life.”>

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Symbolism and the use of visual devices to tell a story play a large part in the artist’s work. “A man from the National Gallery came to write a piece about me and he was asking about the symbolism in my work. To tell you the truth, I hadn’t really thought about it. But my works feature hearts, and I realised that’s not just about relationships; rather, it’s the positive thoughts you send out to people and the desire to have that love and respect returned. I also use birds as messengers, as they are transient creatures that allow us to talk to people beyond this realm.”

The artist considers it a privilege to be commissioned for work, which happens often. “I’ve just finished a piece for a gorgeous, crazy young couple in Perth.

They had a surprise wedding: she was waiting for him out on a pier, and he picked her up and they got married on a boat. Even their vows were made up from a poem from Dr Seuss! Though their parents were terribly disappointed at not being able to be a part of the planning, they put in together to buy this painting – and it was their way of being part of the journey.” She reflects on meeting many inspiring people. “I met an older couple who had worked and had kids, and they were looking for something meaningful to do together when the kids had left. They took up cycling, and they have cycled thousands of miles around Australia. On one of these journeys they were involved in a car accident: miraculously, they emerged unscathed. They felt they were given this opportunity in life, and I feel privileged to be painting their journey. You get to hear all these incredible stories and you just think, ‘Wow, how amazing is life?’

It’s like a constant reminder of that moment, and cherishing how special life is.”

It’s not all so easy however. Painting can be quite a solitary pursuit. “It’s funny with painting and art. It’s this kind of a bubble. You imagine that these artistic people and their lives are really different to your own, but most of the artists I meet spend so much time on their own. When you see their studio and how they work, you begin to understand that we’re all kind of in the same process.

We’re all just real people doing the best we can to tell our stories,” she says.

The artist has embarked on a new journey and is trying her hand at sculpture.

“I didn’t want to do anything heavy in bronze or wood, but I had this idea that I could do something in layers – kind of 2D but 3D at the same time.” She started out creating small cardboard models and sourced materials like steel offcuts, old biscuit tins and pressed- metal ceilings. “I’d never worked in metal, but like everything else, I thought, ‘I’ll give it a crack’.” She met with welders and sheetmetal workers, and continued to collect all varieties of metals. “I had all this stuff, but I didn’t quite know where to start. I ended up meeting a young guy called Clinton who not only helped me to learn how to work with metal, but is now my partner,” she smiles. With Clinton’s mechanical engineering background, she describes herself and her partner as ‘the yin/yang’ of the art world. “He has an understanding of the materials I wanted to use. Through a process of exploration, she realised you could mix and match (and attach) any medium to create a piece. She is now learning how to use a plasma cutter, and together, they’re having a ball.

The first time she showed her sculptures she was extremely excited, and so was Clinton. “He hadn’t been a part of the art world before, and it was so much fun. I was so proud, saying, ‘Clinton did this, and Clinton did that’. A man came up excitedly and said, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s a bit of one of those old Commonwealth piggy banks!’ We’d used them for flower petals, and it was really fun after that because people were looking at the artworks saying, ‘Oh, that’s a such-and-such, and that’s off a . . . it was great fun!

Next on the artistic agenda? “I’d love to do some large scale community sculptures. When I backpacked through Europe I discovered an amazing sculpture park, and I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful to create something like that here?’ If you could make the works tactile so they’re not remote and forbidden, rather something that you’re encouraged to touch, climb over or through, wouldn’t that be amazing?” A move to a 3-acre Peninsula property will give the artist the opportunity to try her hand at some larger-scale works.

“I’ve always had a thing for rabbits: they’re like my muse, or story-time partner.

I’ve got a vision of huge rabbits on stilts – I just think they would be amazing . . . bizarre circus rabbits. I’ve been collecting old pressed-metal ceilings, so I can do this kind of patchwork bunny of sorts – I reckon it would be so much fun to make. It’s just a matter of time . . . stay tuned!

If you would like to see more of Janine’s amazing works she has an exhibition coming up on Saturday the 21st January at Manyung Gallery, Mt Eliza (03) 9787 2953 and Sorrento www.manyunggallery.com.au

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trevor clauscen

lifeass

s v aa e vv r e e r r

Saving lives has been a way if life for lifesaver Trevor Clausen. We revisit the waves with this man of action.

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

As a teenager in the 60s, Trevor Clauscen was interested in chasing the surf, not skirt. He barely noticed dimpled beauty Judith Durham singing at the island surf club’s summer dance, or those squeaky girls in bikinis gyrating to The Beatles, nor the shiny new lines of his older brother’s Ford Falcon. That luxury white XK, the first Falcon model sold in Australia, could tow a 26-foot long surf boat, and that’s all that mattered. “Because I didn’t drive, we roped my brother in,” he laughs.

At 17, Trevor’s older brother Graham wore out that first Ford Falcon of his, which took 19 seconds to get from 0 to 100kph, ferrying his brother to surf boat races around the coast. Together, they ditched their hometown of Brighton to spend most summers with white zinc cream on their narrow Nordic noses, braving the rugged stretch at Woolamai, where Trevor had volunteered to be a lifesaver at the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

Seems the cheerful, no-nonsense builder liked the gig. Now 67, he’s been on active patrol for the last 50 years, and still loves the rush of coming to someone’s rescue at sea. He says what’s changed dramatically on the beach, beyond the rowdy crowds, is resuscitation technique, with artificial respiration introduced in the early ‘60s, and more recent technology like portable oxygen and heart-starting defribillators on hand.

“You used to just lay them over and press the back to try and get water out and air in. Lifesaver Ian Mackay was one of the first to devise this mouth to mouth system and the successes were phenomenal.

Now we have defibs and it’s got more and more sophisticated, and the latest training is - don’t worry about the breaths, just get the heart going with chest compressions.”

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After his parents bought an old fibrous asbestos shack in San Remo, Trevor began a long time love affair with the sea. The beach crowd nicknamed him ‘Belts’ because he used to lead the March Past – surf life saving’s traditional march formation at the beach carnival – which still embarrasses him today. “You had to have 12 in a team and you’d march up the beach to God Save the Queen and I was the only guy who could march and keep everyone in time, so they put me in the belt attached to the line, which we used back then to rescue people.”

Trevor says in the 60s there wasn’t much going on in Melbourne, so to get away for the weekend and be on your own – sleeping in the club’s basic hut – was a real lifestyle. “You could come down to the beach and be independent, spend the weekends surfing, lifesaving and going to the pub, doing all the things that young kids do.”

But come beach patrol time, the party stopped, and it was all eyes ahead for one of the most dangerous beaches in Australia – Woolamai – one of only three category 3 beaches in Australia alongside Gunnamatta and Portsea. “Woolamai is a very rugged beach so we have a lot of rescues, up to 12, 15, or 20 a year.”

Trevor remembers one of the more dramatic rescues that involved several ‘blow in’ teenagers from Melbourne who got into trouble at Smiths Beach. “There were eight kids in trouble. So we drove from Woolamai to Smiths Beach and pulled them out. One of the girls wasn’t breathing very well so we gave her some resus, took them to hospital and they all survived. But it was the trauma of driving from here to there because back then they’d ring or drive to get help, and if an hour has passed, by the time you would get there, most of those times they’re dead.” >

dave finch

er and tre

vor clausc e

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“People can change their whole mental approach under stress.

Some people give up and die. Other people will fight to the bitter end.”

Today, there are phones around the coast, numbers on the beaches, and of course mobile phones, which have helped keep lifesavers reach beachgoers in minutes.

change their whole mental approach under stress. Some people give up and die. Other people will fight to the bitter end. There’s no rhyme or reason for that.”

In more than 50 years of life saving, Trevor has yet to witness a fatality, which he says is testament to the success of preventative action. Since its inception in 1959, the club has attended more than 3000 life-threatening rescues and some 10,000 preventative interventions.“Most of those people would have drowned. But I mean what price to you put on saving people’s lives? We’d rather be well in their faces to help them recognise the danger rather than let it evolve into a really bad situation. Even if they’ve only gone from here to the wall, we’re on them. “ He says most beachgoers react well if you just start with ‘G’day. What are you doing out here? Are you all right?” And if they recognise they’re in trouble, they’re happy to take a lift back in the rescue boat, ‘the rubber duckie’. It’s the tourists who don’t speak English, or the big male egos, that take more convincing. “Some of them think they’re alright so we just sit back and wait a minute and then go back.”

He says if you treat the sea with reverence, you can generally avoid getting into trouble. “You’ve got to respect the sea for what it is. It’s living, breathing, an active ocean and it’s just doing its thing.”

Trevor has put that extensive surf and lifesaving knowledge to use in surfboat racing, training hundreds of crews as the ‘sweep’ at the back of the boat, winning championships for more than 27 years.

Where lifesavers really prove their mettle is for mass rescues, and Trevor has been part of a few.“Sometimes the tide will change and the banks collapse and all of a sudden the big wave comes and takes maybe 10 or 15; they go out into the run out and they can’t get back in. That’s really when you’re put to your test.”

Trevor says most people are grateful to be pulled from danger, some even give money, while others say nothing and walk off. “Most of them we get early so they’ve only had a bit of a taste of it, but it gives them a real awakening for what the sea can do, and what their abilities are. They all feel a bit embarrassed that they’ve been picked up so it’s a short and sweet thank you. Then they go back and sit down and reflect.”

In the 90s, a military delegation from Russia had a close call at Woolamai, with the number two honcho and his henchmen pulled to shore – in shock and hypothermic. Needless to say the reward dinner for the lifesavers in question involved a great deal of vodka. “That was our celebrity dash, and it was a close call for him and his bodyguards.

All the boys reckon it was the Russian mafia.”

Once at Express Point, Trevor recalls a former school principal who fell to pieces in a crisis. “We were paddling out this day and this huge wave wiped our skies off us and we were stuck out there. It was so strong we couldn’t swim in, and mentally he just gave up and said, ‘Just leave me, I can’t do it.’ He had three kids. We said, ‘Oh bugger you, we’ll drag you.’ So we put up with him for an hour and got him to the rocks. He got up walked away and never said a word. People can

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Being a surf lifesaver taught him how to read the surf and get the boat in the right position. “They’re a big boat – so there’s not much you can do with them if they go the wrong way, so it’s all about balance, timing and the team working really well together.”

Like a lot of things in life, the measured baby boomer says it’s not so much about the results, but the journey. “I watch these young boys grow up. When they start they have no idea what they’re doing – both in life and in sport – and they learn about themselves.”

Trevor has relished that mentoring role, which requires navigating a team through unpredictable conditions, where sometimes the surf can get as big as a roof. “I train them, I coach them – you’re mother, father, uncle, friend, coach. It’s very intense, you’re training two or three days a week and the weekend. My forte has probably been taking ordinary people and making them into champions. Even if they’re not a star in themselves, they can grow within the group and strive for excellence.”

Trevor says many of his boys become so confident and self-reliant negotiating the surf in these huge fibreglass boats that they go on to start their own businesses. “They use this discipline and adventure in rowing and it changes their character. They have to work with people, they have to be on time, they’ve got to be disciplined, commit themselves to the program, and make sacrifices, and I think they come out of it better people.”

Yes, he says surfboat racers cop flak for wearing ‘budgie smuggler’ Speedos; and suffer the indignity of baring their bum cheeks when they race. “When you row, you can’t leave your togs down. They have to wedgie. You’ve got to pull them up so there are bums everywhere.

Because if you didn’t, you’d rub yourself raw.”

But there’s one great positive in that – the girls have to do it too, which is a great crowd-puller. “That’s the great thing about girls racing that they’ve brought into the comp. When the girls are racing there are all these guys around checking them out.”

Seems the salty dog eventually discovered girls after all.

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Surf mama

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Former Victorian women’s surfing champion Amber Goldsbury has the dream life – a house by the sea, two gorgeous kids and a very understanding husband.

On most weekdays Amber will have dropped her kids at school and be checking the waves at Woolamai by 9.15am. Other women go the gym: Amber surfs. “That’s how I try to justify it, anyway,” jokes the bubbly blond.

“Cam knows if the surf’s been really good that the house may not be tidy when he gets home from work!” Then, on weekends, the whole family hits the waves.

Annual beach holidays gave Amber a love for the water, and a chance surf lesson in her teens set her on the path. “It just went from there – one thing led to another,” she says at her island home with views across the ocean, which today is stormy and uninviting. “I’ve got softer as I get older,” she remarks. “I wouldn’t have thought twice about going out on a day like today when I was sixteen, but now I do!”

Taking the surfing path wasn’t a conscious decision. “It just turned into Mum and Dad forever driving me around to surf comps.” At 17, she moved to the island full time with her mum – a lucky break that provided the opportunity to devote herself to surfing in every spare minute. “It was a dream come true,” says the girl who used to walk down to Express Point – simply because it was the closest break to her house. “I’d catch a few waves on the shoulder and watch the guys surf the point and think, ‘One day I’ll do that’. But as you get older, things change and you have kids – you think, ‘No way!”

She surfed with a few other gals and joined the Phillip Island Boardriders’ Club. “The Club was great when I started out as you’d know people in the water and it also helped in competitions.”“Did you win any?” asks six-year old son Eden. “A couple,” she replies. Amber Reason, as she was then known, won more than a couple of comps. She was Victorian Junior Champion in 1997, won both Junior and Open Championships in 1998 and won the Open again in 2000.

“Surfing did take over my life, but in a good way. I’d just go to comps and have a good time. There were a few girls who were really serious and you knew they were going to have a future in the sport.” Does she wish she’d taken that next step? “Well, I met Cameron when I was 19 and that changed things. I wanted to be home more. The whole competition thing was a short phase –but surfing has always been there for me.”

This ‘short phase’ saw Amber competing in some of surfing’s most iconic events. A wildcard at Bell’s enabled her to pitch her talents against Layne Beachley – which she does admit was ‘nerve-wracking’. Layne went on to win the competition that year. Other great opportunities came her way while she was sponsored by Roxy, including travel overseas and teaching surfing in Japan.

Was it harder back then as a surfing female? “I never found it hard. Being out in the water with people you knew was great. In tricky situations like a wipeout, I’d look back and one of the guys would be watching to make sure I was ok, especially when I was younger. If anything, you feel >

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“I feel proud not to have given up my board, and hope to be a real role model for my kids.” feel more looked after as a girl.” Even today, she sometimes still has to get a couple of waves to prove to the guys that she can actually surf.

“But that’s ok – I think everyone has to prove themselves on the waves in summer.”

take surf lessons, and recommends investing in a good wetsuit. “You always get those crazy kids that go out in their undies and don’t feel the cold, but most do.”

This gutsy gal does have one weakness. “I always think of sharks when I surf! As a teenager I thought it would be a cool way to die. But now if I get an uneasy feeling or see a shadow, I’ll get out of the water. I know it’s all in my mind, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think about it.”

Surfing is also a great social outing. “You go to Smiths Beach on a day when it’s offshore and really small and you know that you’ll meet other kids. There are a lot of beach families, and there are surfing families as well.” Amber dreams of the day her whole family can paddle out at her favourite break – Woolamai.

Today, for the mother of two, surfing is more a family thing. “I try to surf during the week so Cam can get out on the weekends. It was a real juggle for a while. Now we all go down to Smiths Beach after school and on holidays.” Amber still competes with the Boardriders, works as a school integration aide and gives surf lessons with Island over summer.

“Being a mother hasn’t taken away from surfing – it’s added to it. Your accomplishments change – just getting out there is great now. I feel proud not to have given up my board, and hope to be a real role model for my kids – to show them that you can be a parent and still do the things you love.”

Eden was two and Sage three when they had their first surf in the shore break at Smiths. ‘I would just hang onto the board and go in with them the whole way – it keeps the board stable and you need to be with them all the time. It really needs two parents and you have to keep pretty close.”

And back to Amber’s supportive husband, Cam, who is a surfer in his own right. “I can clearly remember going for a surf when Eden was two weeks old. I looked back at the shore and saw Cam with this tiny baby in a papoose, and two-year-old Sage running along the beach. I thought, ‘Gee, it’s wonderful that he is prepared to wait on the beach, that he’s happy to share the time.’ I’m so lucky he’s like that.”

Amber feels that kids need to have confidence in the water before they

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Eighty-seven is a lot of years to recall – especially lived at the lightning pace of Ruth Heffer. My taped interview (which is over three hours long!) is full of laughter as between the two of us, and with the help of an Excel spreadsheet, we work through the years and events of an extraordinary life.

a living treasure ruth heffer

words sally o’neill photos lucas piera

Born in Shepparton, Ruth started school in Rushworth before moving to boarding school in Tatura, and then to Frankston. “I just adored Frankston,” she gushes. “The boronia was growing by the acre out at Langwarrin – it was so different then. It was a lovely little seaside place, a close community – I called every second man ‘Uncle’.” In the “childish mind” which she says still characterises her, there was the conviction that nobody could ever die in Frankston.

Even though she desperately wanted to be a nurse, her family needed the help provided by her bookkeeping skills.

She joined a telephone exchange on the night shift. “It was great being with the girls. We had all the service people from Balcombe, Mt Martha and Crib Point knocking on the door at midnight to be connected.”

It was Frankston in the 1940s. “There was a young set going, with dances every Saturday and Wednesday night at the Soldiers’ Hall,” she recalls. It was at one of these dances that she met the love of her life, George. “I was 17, he was 19 and he’d dance with me – it was rather romantic. I thought he liked dancing, but when we got married, I found he didn’t like it at all!”

After a stint share-farming in Flinders, the now married couple secured a soldier- settlement block in Waaia half-way between Numurkah and Nathalia in Victoria’s north. “It was hard work from the get-go. The heat was enormous day and night – there was only one tree on the whole place. We lived in a garage – for what seemed to me forever – while the house was being built.” They stayed on the farm for ten years and then moved into the town of Numurkah. That’s where she and her daughter started Maru Craft in 1974, creating the name from the first letters of theirs: Ma (Marilyn) and Ru (Ruth).

“But George was a real gypsy, and got the bug for us to go to Lightning Ridge and become millionaires!” The couple went for three months, living in a tent in the primitive, maledominated environment. “In 1969 it very crude. If I wanted to coast 48

go to the toilet, I had to walk quite a long way and then check under the door for a big pair of boots with opal dust all over them – then I’d know it was occupied!”

The couple returned to Victoria but “George really had the bug, so he took his great big tractor and went back there for nine months, leaving me with two kids”. He was going to make a fortune, but George came home penniless after the men he was working for turned out to be crooks.

Frankston was always calling, so the couple returned “home” and set up a large workshop and kilns to make pots and ceramics to sell at the newly-emerging Esplanade Market in St Kilda.

“One stinking hot January day, we had a high firing going and George said we’d go for a drive. We headed over to Phillip Island, where I’d only been once before. We got to Grantville (where there was just one store, a hall and a petrol station) and passed a property with a big ‘for sale’ notice. George stopped. It was ten and a half acres of pine trees from the road to the bay. I could see his brain was ticking over, but I didn’t think much more about it.” But as soon as they got home, George asked Ruth to go back and put a $100 deposit on the property. “I did it, but I told George that I would never ever leave Frankston.”

Never say ‘never’. Before she knew it, Ruth was living in a caravan and working around the clock to clear the overgrown pine forest. The family all came to help, camping on the block, sitting around the fire on moonlit nights and swatting mosquitos that Ruth swears were “as big as elephants!”

Tourism was far from their minds as they set up a shed for their kilns. Ruth describes their lifestyle at that time as “very alternative” – living rough, making pots for the Esplanade market, and pursuing other crafts.

The pine forest was eventually removed and all the timber was either milled to be used for the house, or sold as chips on the roadside. “I asked the boys to build me a little shop if there was>

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any timber left over.” So, in 1985, Ruth re-started Maru in its new location, selling ceramics and local craft goods on consignment. “I had no idea of it as a business – it was just a hobby.”

It took off. The first small coach rolled in one day while Ruth was out shopping – she couldn’t quite believe it. Then it was double-decker buses – four at a time. Visitors from around the world loved Ruth’s warm hospitality and Maru’s unique atmosphere. The urn was always ready for a cuppa along with teddy bear biscuits – all complimentary. “That was my philosophy – just to make people feel welcome. I thought life would never change.” But it did.

In 1987, Ruth’s beloved son Graeme died. Her face clouds for a moment, and then brightens again as her mind turns to the ‘emu’ phase when George and son Ian got caught up in the hype. “A big truckload of emus arrived. I didn’t know what we were going to do with them, to be honest! George said we were going to make a fortune, but they ate us out of house and home and, guess what, we couldn’t give them away!” she laughs. In 1990, Ruth’s son Ian took over the business and it grew to include native animals and a themed mini-golf course and café.

Ruth has definitely walked her own path through life with a philosophy of just being herself and striving to be happy.

“Happiness is a state of mind. You can be as happy as you want wherever you are: it’s up to you.” She also feels very protected by the “guardian angels” that look after her – especially over the past few years as she has experienced some health problems.

A second fire in January 2009 was terrifying and shattering for Ruth. Woken by the loud banging of rescuers in the middle of the night, she fell and hurt herself badly. “I was shaking like a leaf. All I could see in front of me was flames and water. I begged one of the firemen, Geoff, not to let my house burn down. He said, ‘I promise you I won’t.’ And it didn’t.”

Again the locals rallied around, but the clean-up after this large fire took much longer. “The fire affected us all very much: I was having nightmares,” says Ruth. Within six months she decided to leave her beloved house at Maru and move back to Frankston to live with her daughter. “It was very, very difficult for me to leave,” acknowledges Ruth.

She still returns to Maru to mingle with the guests on special occasions. And when there, she is a celebrity! “I miss everyone here. I love the place because George and I started it – and I just love the people.”

Then September 11 and the SARS virus virtually killed international tourism overnight. In 1994, Maru had its first fire, started by an electrical fault in the ceiling. “The shop was completely gutted. It was devastating, but we got over that and the community and the tourism industry rallied around us.” They rebuilt and reopened within three weeks - thanks mainly to builder son Stepehn.

One couple from Swan Hill recently came back to find her, their last visit having been two years earlier. “They’d left holding hands. I called out to them, ‘Never stop holding hands!’, because my husband had taken my hand as we crossed a road a week before he died and at the time I resented it, but now I regret the way I felt.”

Ruth lost her cherished husband George in 1997. Again her face clouds at the recollection, so I try to guide her to talk a little about herself outside of Maru. Her sense of community has always prevailed, with ongoing work for Legacy (a charity that helps war widows), being a counsellor for Lifeline, and the fostering of eight children over the years. She now loves the Dream Nights held at Maru to help children with special needs.

I doubt many people could forget meeting Ruth Heffer. I’m sure she charmed everyone who met her at her craft store in Grantville – probably even the birds from the trees! Her infectious personality built Maru into the success it is today. We hug goodbye and off she flits, this “five-foot-nothing” dynamo, in a constant state of movement … flitting here and there … dancing her way through life ... coast 51

supergroms surfing’s next wave

words sue webster photos warren & maria reed

s

Health experts who worry about girls’ lower participation rates in sport should be ecstatic … the gender balance at Phillip Island’s Supergrommet program has swung decidedly towards gal power.

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The summer surfing program started by islander Bob Matthews in the 1980s and run by the Phillip Island Boardriders has seen an increase in female students over recent years. The program introduces kids to surfing, having fun in the water and learning about competing. It also introduces them to other surfing kids and their families.

Kick-off this year was in early November, the first of six to eight sessions in a program that runs through to early March. The sessions are held in the mild-mannered waves of YCW, “so they can surf in the nice weather!” says Zena Archibald, the first-ever female club president, and mother of two boys, one of them a past Supergrom.

Participants are from both surfing and non-surfing families. Ironically, Zena is Scottish-born and has never been on a surfboard in her life – but strongly supports the program that attracts 80 to 100 kids per session. “We have lots of Melbourne kids come down for it, kids from the Peninsula and the holiday house kids,” says Zena.

“They go from little tackers up to 13 years. They are split into eight divisions by age and into boys’ and girls’ groups.”

s

Over the last two years, the number of participants – particularly girls – has risen. Zena attributes part of the increased interest to the ABC teen soapie series ‘Bluewater High’. “A lot of kids thought Nikki van Dijk was actually one of the actors,” Zena laughs.

The Phillip Island-based movie ‘First Love’ has also been a big motivator, says Zena. The documentary featured Nikki and two other local girls, Jess Laing and India Payne. It was Jess, in that movie, who said: “If you fall in love with the ocean, the sound, the smell, the stormy peaks … when you fall head over heels in your first attempt to catch a wave… you’re gone.”

In real life, it would seem that capturing surfing moments on camera is a big part of parental involvement. “You always see the parents up there recording the kids on their cameras,” says Zena. She would be keen to see some of the video clips, possibly with the aim of making a compilation DVD as a record of those early surfing moments … possibly capturing future surfing greats taking their first wave.

Regardless of their backgrounds, the kids respond to the challenge of surf in an almost universal way. “When they ride their first wave, when they stand up for the first time, you see great big smiles spread across their faces. It’s wonderful,” says Zena. “The parents are usually pretty pleased, too,” she adds.

For each participant an adult is required to be in attendance on the beach throughout the session, and the youngest kids must have a responsible person alongside them in the water.

There is no competitive component to the program, and the only awards presented at the end of the season are for participation.

Rather than just surfing lessons, Supergroms is a pathway to competing in club events, state rounds and other junior competitions. In addition to warm-up regimes such as beach running and belly-to-standing exercises, surfers progress to independent paddling, riding the face of the wave … and then move to increasingly larger waves. “Some of Victoria’s best male surfers have progressed through the Supergrom program,” says Zena.

The older participants are gradually introduced to the world of competitive surfing – and some take it further. Nikki van Dijk has twice won an International Grom Search Final and also numerous Victorian state titles. >

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s

“When they ride their first wave, when they stand up the first time, you see great big smiles spread across their faces. It’s wonderful.”

Back at the beach the volunteer older surfers offer their advice, but the emphasis is on fun and meeting other young surfers and their families. “It also helps with the car-pooling,” adds canny Zena. Ferrying kids and their boards is another major part of parental involvement.

The program has attracted some sponsorship and the cost is remarkably low – $50 for the entire program. Participants bring their own boards and wetsuits. At the end of the program, there is a celebration event where each kid is required to make a presentation on what they’ve gained from their involvement – and also to thank the adults who have done all that ferrying and photography. And that’s not the only social angle to Supergroms. There are regular barbeques, with a special Christmas ‘do’ where even Santa has been known to turn up for a BBQ sausage.

Supergrommets has become the prototype for similar programs established elsewhere, and in 2004 the club’s efforts were recognised with the awarding of a Surfing Hall of Fame innovation award.

What is Zena’s hope for the future of this successful initiative? “More kids discovering more fun through surfing.”

## Grommet is ‘surfer slang’ and mostly refers to surfers under 15 years old.

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summer on the coast

stay safe this summer swim between the flags The ocean can be unpredictable. At patrolled beaches, always swim between the flags. Lifeguards will be on duty every day between 10am and 6pm at Inverloch, Cape Woolamai, Smith’s Beach and Cowes from 26 December 2011 to 26 January 2012.

Volunteer patrols will operate every weekend from 3rd December 2011 to 9th April 2012 at Cowes, Smith’s Beach, Cape Woolamai, Inverloch, Cape Paterson Bay Beach and First Surf.

For more information on patrols, visit www.surflifesavingvictoria.com.au If you are boating or fishing, check tides and conditions online or talk to a local about the conditions before heading out.

emergency All Bass Coast beaches have yellow triangle signs with numbers on them. Quote this number in an emergency so you can be quickly located. Call 000

party responsibly Don’t let your holiday fun impact on those around you. Please don’t drink in the streets or on the beaches, sleep in cars or camp without a permit, light campfires, or disturb your neighbours by having unreasonably loud parties.

www.basscoast.vic.gov.au coast 56

Bass Coast is about nature, the beaches and local attractions.

People flock to this coast each summer to escape the city and wind down. Please remember – enjoy it, don’t spoil it.

having fun at the beach our favourite bass coast beaches - Smith’s Beach - Cape Woolamai - Coronet Bay - Rhyll - Inverloch – Anderson Inlet - Cape Paterson/Harmers Haven

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a wondrous place where art + nature meet 1

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

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

info@mcclellandgallery.com www.mcclellandgallery.com

Artwork Key: 1. Lisa Roet White ape 2005; 2. Ken Unsworth Annulus 2007; 3. Foreground Burns and Clark Plantation 2003, background Peter Corlett Tarax play sculpture 1969; 4. John Kelly Alien 2006; 5. Andrew Rogers The Winding Path, the Search for Truth 2010; 6. Norma Redpath Paesaggio Canatide (Landscape Caryatide) 1980-85; 7. Geoff Ricardo Rhino 2010

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summer on the coast Celebrate the sun and fun with the amazing range of events and festivals on offer.

For a full list of local events, check out the events calendar on the Bass Coast Shire Council website www.basscoast.vic.gov.au and South Gippsland Shire Council www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au and see our arts and events guide on p.21 & 22

summer events Bass Coast Series of Biathlons takes in events at Cape Paterson, San Remo and Cowes. Competitors accrue points by competing in each event and are in the running for overall prizes in a number of categories. The events highlight the unique aspects of three of Bass Coast’s iconic beaches. www.basscoast.vic.gov.au Cowes Night Market is a collective of stallholders presenting handmade creations brimming with individuality and flair. Discover award-winning provincial wines, culinary flavours with influences from around the globe, and traditional home-style pantry foods. www.cowesnightmarket.org.au Inverloch Food and Wine Festival. Enjoy a relaxing day of delicious local and regional cuisine, boutique wines and music..

Sat 3 March www.visitinverloch.org Phillip Island Food and Wine and events, see page 62 Mossvale Music Festival. One Perfect Day in Gippsland. Enjoy amazing artists, great food, wine and market stalls all in the magical surrounds of Mossvale Park. 17 March. www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au Sculpture in the Vines. Renowned sculptors present their works in the open air setting of Lyrebird Hill Winery. 11 December – 29 January www.lyrebirdhill.com.au

fireworks update New Years Eve fireworks at Inverloch and Coronet Bay start at 9.30pm. If you are spending New Year on Phillip Island, remember there are no New Year’s Eve fireworks or entertainment in Cowes.

Enjoy Carols by Candlelight at six different locations across Bass Coast.

Visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au for details. Carols by the Bay in Cowes on Tuesday, 20 December also includes a community fireworks display at 9.30pm.

Carols are also held within South Gippsland Shire, including at Coal Creek on December 16. www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

Janine Daddo

artists and galleries o Anita Stepano Ross p.33 o Archies on the Creek p.6 o Celia Rosser Gallery p.43 o Cheryl Petersen p.55 o Coal Creek Community Gallery p.75 o Deb Halpern p.50 o Gecko Studio Gallery p.188 o Gooseneck Pottery p.69 o Art Gallery of Inverloch p.188 o Leongatha Gallery p.129 o Manyung Gallery p.38 o Mc Clelland Gallery p.58 o Meeniyan Art Gallery p.69 o Mosaics by the Bay p.188 o Shearwater Studios p.188

Photo Tajette O’Halloran

Check out the wonderful galleries around the coast!

Anita Stepano Ross

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promotional feature

sweet rewards Debbie Schonewille worked in the local ice-cream and lolly store in Cowes when she was fourteen.

She never thought she’d do that kind of work again. But today she proudly creates her own ice creams and gelato at Phillip Island’s popular and wacky tourist attraction, A Maze’N Things.

“Gelato is the Italian word for ice-cream,” says Debbie, as she takes us on a taste tour of her delicious house-made ice confections. “I always laugh when kids come in and say they don’t like gelato. I ask if they like icecream, and when they say they do, I say, ‘Well, you like gelato then!”

Debbie can hardly believe that she has worked at Phillip Island’s A Maze’N Things for so long – she has just clocked up 19 and a half years with the team. “I started in May of their first year of operation – it was quite small and we all did everything then,” she explains.

Her long-term employers Geoff Moed and Sandy Bell are “more like friends” to her now. It was Sandy who suggested that she might like to run ‘Lolly Lips’ – the ice-cream and lolly shop on the premises. “I was taken aback, but we did a course in Melbourne and I just love it now.”

She has since perfected the Italian-style recipes, but remembers the day she put lemon in the mango sorbet and just improvised and called it ‘tropical’!

1805 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes

Debbie makes all the ice-creams on the premises using fresh ingredients, and orders all the lollies that amaze and tempt kids of all ages. The store is a confectionery wonderland and is adored by locals and visitors alike. Debbie is also renowned for her spectacular icecream cakes.

When not in the store, she is a supervisor in the main attraction which features outdoor Mini Golf and a huge maze, and the indoor attractions of mazes, puzzles, games and illusions.

“It’s never boring, and I’ve made lasting friends with the staff through the years,” says Debbie. “I love Phillip Island – it’s peaceful, and it was great bringing up my children here.”

And does it get tempting being surrounded by ice-cream all day? “Well, I’m lactose-intolerant, so I don’t get to enjoy it,” laments Debbie.

Call 5952 2283

www.amazenthings.com.au coast 61

This March, Phillip Island will host seven delicious events as part of the 2012 Melbourne Food & Wine Festival See more at visitphillipisland.com

promotional feature

The World’s Longest Lunch at Phillip Island Phillip island producers will come together to stage a regional world’s longest lunch in the tranquil eucalypt woodland of Rhyll Trout & Bush Tucker Farm. Freshly caught trout, lamb, local cheeses and indigenous herbs and spices will leave diners with a full belly and happy heart.

The delicious menu will be prepared by Phillip Island’s best chefs, with offerings from Harry’s on the Esplanade, Spice Island, the Foreshore Bar & Restaurant and of course Rhyll Trout & Bush Tucker Farm, as well as local wines from award-winning local vineyards, Purple Hen and Phillip Island Wines. There will be local entertainers and this is a fundraising event for local organisations.

When: Friday 2nd March 2012, 12:00pm – 4:00pm Where: Rhyll Trout & Bush Tucker Farm, 36 Rhyll-Newhaven Road, Rhyll Cost: Tickets are $125.00 per person.(limited capacity, book early) Bookings: 1300 366 422 Web: www.visitphillipisland.com

Music Fest Phillip island

hosted by Phillip Island Winery A lively full day celebration of music and food, Music Fest will be set on the lawns of Phillip Island Winery with beautiful views over Bass Strait.

Featuring ‘unplugged’ performances from local and visiting artists including Lisa Miller, Mike McLellan, Hugh McDonald, Jacqui Sterling, Doc White, Vivace and lots more. Phillip Island wines, Gippsland chesses and fresh produce will be served, along with a gourmet long barbeque of delicious ‘enviromeat’ from quality Phillip Island butchers.

When: Sunday 11th March 2012, 12:30pm – 10:00pm Where: Phillip Island Winery, 414 Berrys Beach Road, Ventnor Cost: Prices from $40.00 Concert ticket only per person.

Concert plus ‘long barbeque’ enviromeat gourmet meal ticket $80.00 per person.

Bookings: (03) 5956 8465 or enq@phillipislandwines.com.au Web: www.phillipislandwines.com.au

Grill & Brew

hosted by Rusty Water Brewery, Restaurant and Bar Join a relaxing afternoon surrounded by bushland as chefs prepare a gourmet BBQ using the highest quality local produce. Enjoy alfresco dining at its best with great food, handcrafted ales and great company.

When: Saturday 10th March 2012, 12:00pm – 3:00pm Where: Rusty Water Brewery, Restaurant & Bar, 1821 Phillip Island Road, Cowes Cost: Tickets are $60.00 per person, includes a sample paddle of matched ales. Bookings: (03) 5952 1666 or enquiries@ rustywaterbrewery.com.au Web: www.rustywaterbrewery.com.au

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Deli Secrets at Home

hosted by Cleanskin Kitchenware & Larder Phillip Island and Gippsland’s produce and people come together over a weekend of fun, hands-on workshops held in Cleanskin Kitchenware & Larder’s spacious and professional classrooms.

Choose from cheese making, smoking, sausage making or pâtés & terrines. The ‘meet the makers’ forum will provide the opportunity for visitors to mingle with professionals in a relaxed setting.

When: Saturday 10th March 2012, 10:00am – 3:30pm Cheese Making @ Home; Sunday 11th March 2012, 10:00am – 4:00pm Smoking @ Home; Monday 12th March 2012, 9:00am – 12:00pm Sausage Making @ Home; and 1:30pm – 4:30pm Pâtés and Terrines @ Home Where: Cleanskin Kitchenware & Larder Cooking School, 158 Thompson Avenue, Cowes Cost: Prices start from $99.00 per person. Prices vary according to workshop type and duration.

Bookings: (03) 5952 3494 or michele@cleanskinkitchenware.com.au Web: www.cleanskinkitchenware.com.au

Melting Pot - Curry & Wine

hosted by The Gurdies Winery & Clay Pot Curry House Clay Pot Curry House and The Gurdies Winery have collaborated to give foodies a special experience. Upon arriving at The Gurdies, guests will be greeted by traditional Sri Lankan dancers before touring the winery and sipping on local wine. Clay Pot’s talented chefs will create a delicious lunch of Sri Lankan cuisine to be enjoyed in the company of the winemaker.

When: Sunday 11th March 2012, 10:30am – 2:45pm Where: The Gurdies Winery, 215 Gurdies – St Hellier Road, The Gurdies and Clay Pot Curry House, 733 Turnbull-Woolamai Road, Woolamai (Bass) Cost: Tickets are $55.00 per person.

Bookings: 0425 748 907 or spe10437@bigpond.net.au Web: www.thegurdieswinery.com.au and www.claypotcurryhouse.com.au

Cooking for kids

hosted by Spice Island & Silverwater Resort Children between the ages of 7 – 12 can enjoy a parent- free cooking master class hosted by Paul Stafford from Spice Island Cooking School. The fun-filled cooking adventure will run for 1 ½ hours during which the kids will get to cook two courses using local seasonal ingredients. During the class mini chefs will be quizzed about sustainable practice and environmental issues relevant to food. All participants will take home cooking utensils and a professional chefs’ hat and apron.

When: 17th March 2012, 9:00am – 10:30am, 11:30am – 1:00pm and 2:00pm – 3:30pm Where: Silverwater Resort, 17 Potters Hill Road, San Remo Cost: Classes are $35.00 per child.

Bookings: (03) 5678 5999 or paul@spiceisland.com.au Web: www.spiceisland.com.au and www.silverwaterresort.com.au

Island Produce - Meet the makers Explore the island to meet local food and wine producers at their own establishments. Travel by bus starting at a local farm in Ventnor that farms environments - free-range, grass fed healthy beef. Then a scrumptious morning tea at Panny’s Chocolate factory before continuing on to Purple Hen Winery for a sneak peek into the bottling area and tastings of their award-winning wines. Then it’s down the road to the Rhyll Trout & Fishing farm to collect ‘bush tucker’ samples and local smoked trout from owner Paul Mannix. The tour will finish with a delicious three course feast of all the fresh produce collected along the way at the Phillip Island RSL. When: Saturday 17th March 2012, 9:00am – 2:00pm Where: Bus departs from the Phillip Island RSL 225 – 243, Thompson Avenue, Cowes Cost: Tickets are $75.00 per person.

Bookings: (03) 5952 1004 Web: www.pirsl.com.au

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What’s on in Summer December – Carols galore

• Carols at the Creek – Christmas Carols at the beautiful Coal Creek Community Park & Museum in Korumburra • Carols at the Drome – Christmas Carols at the Leongatha Velodrome

January

• South Gippsland Summer Festival – Toora, Welshpool, Pt Welshpool, Mt Best • St Paul’s Festa – Mirboo North

February

Prom Country Arts & Culture Brochure – available now.

This great guide to arts and culture in South Gippsland has comprehensive listing of galleries, annual events and festivals, music, theatre and a great map of South Gippsland, available by post; request your copy from Sophie at South Gippsland Shire Council.

Phone: 5662 9202 or email at sophie.dixon@southgippsland.vic.gov.au

• Mossvale Park, Music for the People, last Sunday in February 2012 – featuring Victorian Concert and South Gippsland region Orchestras

March

• Mossvale Park Music Festival – March 2012 –International, National and Local Musical Acts. Check the Lyrebird Arts website for details –www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au

9 Smith Street • Leongatha • Vic • 3953 • 03 5662 9200 www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

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on the watch for the vulnerable hooded plover text and photos graeme burgan & danene jones

advertising feature

Hooded Plover Watch Volunteers and Nature Parks’ rangers

This summer, Phillip Island Nature Parks’ rangers and volunteers will be working hard to protect some very rare and special shorebirds - the threatened Hooded Plovers.

Phillip Island is home and sanctuary for many seabirds. One of the most threatened is the Hooded Plover and these tiny birds need our help.

During autumn and winter, Hooded Plovers form flocks and can be seen on a select few of Phillip Island’s beaches. “Total numbers of these birds on Phillip Island varies each year from 30 to 55,” says Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Environment Supervisor Jarvis Weston.

The birds then make their nests on local beaches over spring and summer. This is when they are most vulnerable because their nest is a mere scrape of sand on the beach – just above the high tide mark.

Records show that a dangerously high number of eggs and chicks are lost; 60% of chicks die before they leave their parents and become independent – a process known as fledging. This lack of breeding success is not exclusive to Phillip Island – Victoria’s total population is estimated at less than 600.

Thanks to the dedicated work of Phillip Island Nature Parks’ rangers, researchers and volunteers, Phillip Island is one of the few places in Victoria where Hooded Plover numbers are actually increasing.

Hooded Plover Watch is a community-based initiative aimed at monitoring and improving Hooded Plover breeding success on Phillip Island. Volunteers spend many hours sitting on beaches guarding nest sites and educating the public about the importance of keeping themselves and their dogs away. The program is conducted from late spring to early autumn. Volunteers also participate in quarterly bird counts on beaches across Phillip Island through the year.

!! please watch out for me !!

Hooded Plovers are between 19-23 cm long and are easily distinguished by their black ‘hood’. They are often confused with the Masked Lapwing – a much larger bird that nests across Phillip Island.

They are mostly seen along Phillip Island’s south coast foraging along the waterline and on rock platforms at low tide. They lay between one to three fawn, speckled eggs between August and March and both parents share the 28-day incubation. Once the chicks hatch, the parents teach them to feed by themselves from day one. Chicks are able to fly at about five weeks old. When the parents are guarding the chicks, they use a lot of their precious energy trying to distract potential threats (such as a human with a dog) or by fleeing from the impending danger.

This can result in poor breeding success. C

you can help:

• Read signs before you enter an area – please don’t enter or take your dog where you or they are not allowed. Note: Look out for temporary signs on beaches during the breeding season.

• Where possible please walk along the low tide line to avoid disturbing nest sites.

• Pick up any plastic rubbish you may find as you walk along the beach and put in the bin.

• Contact the Nature Parks if you see Hooded Plovers nesting or roaming dogs, cats or foxes.

• Become a Hooded Plover Watch volunteer!

Phillip Island Nature Parks Call 5951 2800 www.penguins.org.au

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Chocolate Cafe

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

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

• Daily hot curry lunch from 12 – 3pm • Hot Chocolate made with real chocolate • Choc dipped frozen bananas

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, 930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven phone 5956 6600 web www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au coast 66

summer on the coast our coast has so many glorious places to stay and play this summer…

stay

• Silverwater Resort, San Remo is the perfect getaway, and with all the fun of a resort including their famous Kids Club, you’ll never want to leave! www.silverwaterresort.com.au • Inverloch RACV Resort This magnificent eco-friendly resort is the ideal base for a wonderful coastal holiday. Check out their new deluxe cabins. www.racv.com.au/inverloch • Cape Beach House This funky beach house in gorgeous Cape Paterson can be yours for a night, a week or more…

Call 0417 106 781.

• Wilson’s Promontory and Surrounds Accommodation Booking Service has over 100 properties in one place online. www.promcountry.com.au

play at these summer attractions Bunurong Environment Centre in Inverloch features educational displays, gift shop, shell collection and dinosaur info. Summer activities and walks. See p. 191 A Maze N’Things p. 60 Phillip Island Nature Parks Explore the world-famous natural attractions including the Penguin Parade, new Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island and Nobbies Centre. Buy a 3-Parks Pass and save. See p. 65 National Vietnam Veterans Museum This nationally-recognised Museum details the history of Australian involvement in the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1972. Open seven days. See p. 191 Wonthaggi State Coal Mine Discover the fascinating history of coalmining with displays, above-ground walks and underground tours! See p. 72

coastal secret . . . yanakie Nestled on the isthmus between Shallow Inlet and Corner Inlet Marine and Coastal Parks and at the gateway to the Prom is the tiny town of Yanakie. The sheltered waters of Shallow Inlet provide a secluded and peaceful setting for a wide range of water-based activities and Corner Inlet is a safe haven for over 180 species of birds.

The peaceful atmosphere of Yanakie is perfect for a relaxing getaway and offers some great fishing and walking. There are some lovely walks including the Duck Point Loop Track that showcases panoramic views of Corner Inlet and Wilson’s Prom. Local and migratory birds can often be seen along the way. Hourigan’s Camp Walk starts from the car park off Millar Rd and leads you through a variety of coastal vegetation before opening out onto the Shallow Inlet Coastal Park. The amazing ‘Big Drift Sands’ are like a mini Simpson Desert and can be accessed via Stockyard camping ground.

As the gateway to the Prom, Yanakie provides the perfect base to explore the Park’s more mysterious north, including walks like Miller’s Landing, Cotter’s Lake and Darby Saddle. Many of the southern walks are still closed due to flood damage earlier in the year.

In the Yanakie township you will find a picnic and barbeque area, children’s playground, public toilets and a General Store. See p.10 & 68 for accommodation information.

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summer accommodation guide

LANES BEACH HOUSE, WALKERVILLE NORTH ONLY 20 METRES TO THE BEACH

Book these and over 40 more at www.promcountry.com.au

8 ACRES GUEST HOUSE 10 MINUTE DRIVE TO FOSTER

Self Contained 8 Acres Guest House - Foster North: $200-$600 per night Abington Briars Cottage - Foster: $275 per night Bass View Cabins - Yanakie: 2x1BR cabins & 1x2 BR cabin Benaway Cottages: $140 per night Bimbadeen Retreat - Fish Creek: $110 per night Birchwood Retreat Country Cottages: $140-$260 per night Black Cockatoo Cottages - Yanakie: $120-$190 per night Buln Buln Holiday Cabins & Boutique Barn: Yanakie Carrelly Garden Accommodation: $150-$245 per night Eagles Outlook - Foster $100 per night Emerald Hills Cottage - Koonwarra: $145-$205 per night Fish Creek Farmview Cottages: $140-$280 per night Garden Farm Cottage - Hiawatha: $100 per night Gooseneck Pottery - Kardella: $80-$100 per night Gully Humphrey Cottage - Toora North: $180-$230 per night Koonwarra Cottages: $130-$205 per night Leongatha Country Cottages: $110-$155 per night Loves Lane Cottages - Mirboo North : $150-$195 per night Oaklane Retreat - Foster: 2BR - 1xqueen & 2xsingle, sleeps 4 Prom Gate Vista Cabins - Yanakie: panoramic sea views Sabrelyn Park - Waratah North: $130-$250 per night The Moilong Express Train - Inverloch: $120-$160 per night Tindoona Cottages - Foster: $160 per night Venus Bay Eco Retreat: $250-$400 per night Zenergie: Villas - Kongwak: $130-$205 per night

Bed & Breakfast 0418 341 537 5682 2502 5687 1207 5657 2268 5683 2687 5668 1757 0438 506 468 0427 339 268 5668 6390 0407540269 5664 2414 0427 636 376 5185 1235 5655 2405 5686 2684 5664 2488 5662 4444 5664 1212 5682 2797 5687 1156 0428 571 008 0439 842 334 5682 1072 5663 7525 5657 4490

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Bentleys - Korumburra South: 2 rooms, romantic getaway Blithe Spirit - Port Albert: 3 rooms, on the waters edge House on the Hill - Kilcunda: 1xunit & 3 rooms Hudspeth House - Meeniyan: $170-$190 per night Karingal Homestead - Inverloch: $130-$175 per night Percanta - Koonwarra: 2BR - 1xqueen & 2xtwin king Tarra Bulga Guest House & Lyrebird Café: $100-$120 p/n Tingara View Cottages - Yanakie: $130 per night Vereker House - Yanakie: $150-$180 per night

5655 1592 5183 2399 5678 7350 5664 7461 5674 3029 5664 2479 5196 6141 5687 1488 5687 1431

Motel & Unit My Place - Inverloch: motel style unit, sleeps 4 Opal Motel - Leongatha: 13 ensuite rooms, picturesque views

5674 3504 5662 2321

Caravan Park Long Jetty Caravan Park - Port Welshpool: cabins & camping Yanakie Caravan Park: 3BR cottage, cabins & camping

5688 1233 5687 1295

Apartment

By The Beach - Inverloch: $140-$150 per night

0418 397 739

Group Lodge Prom Coast Holiday Lodge - Waratah North: lodge & cottages

5684 1110

Resort Broadbeach - Inverloch: units, restaurant & more

5674 6290

For Sale

Beach House 22 Acacia Street - Sandy Point: $110 per night 60 The Boulevard - Sandy Point: $170-$200 per night A Funky Sandy Beach Shack - Sandy Point: $145 per night Anderson Beach House - Inverloch: $200 per night Blakey’s Losman - Sandy Point: $160-$180 per night Blue Oar Cottage - Port Welshpool: $150 per night Elouera Cottage by the Sea - Yanakie: $150 per night Lanes Beach House - Walkerville North: $250-$315 per night Sandy Point Beach House: $125-$145 per night Sandy Point Road: $150-$200 per night Sandy Point Holiday House: $140 per night The Beach House at Sandy Point: $180 per night The Beachfront - Sandy Point: $140 per night The Bothy - Sandy Point: $160-$210 per night The Point - Sandy Point: $170-$200 per night The Quirky - Sandy Point: $150 per night The Studio at Sandy Point: $125-$145 per night Wilsons Prom Retreat - Yanakie: $250-$300 per night Yaringa Cottage - Walkerville North: $150 per night

YARINGA COTTAGE, WALKERVILLE NORTH ONLY 20 METRES TO THE BEACH

1800 889 966 0425 802 669 5689 1311 0431 473 640 0429 822 602 0427 812 203 5687 1239 5663 2291 9015 8581 5687 1367 0400 078 713 0418 595 023 9890 2104 0408 599 732 0400 477 794 0408 599 732 9015 8581 5989 7224 5663 2291

Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages - Yanakie: Prom views

0419 900 302

Rates are for two people. Extra adults and children rates apply at most properties.

School/Public Holidays and weekends are a higher rate at some properties. Visit www.promcountry.com.au or phone the property to check the current rate.

Minimum stay: 2 nights applies at most properties.

PROM VIEW FROM HODDLE LOOKOUT BETWEEN FISH CREEK & FOSTER

60 Kardella - Fairbank Rd, Kardella. (via Korumburra)

Pottery open over Summer.

Phone.

Www.

(03) 5655 2405

Email.

gooseneckpottery@dcsi.net.au

gooseneckpottery.com.au

Upcoming Exhibitions at Meeniyan Art Gallery this Summer Binn’s Track Dec 23 - Jan 19 Yvonne Renfree & Carol Monson (textile) with Trevor Renfree and Russell Monson (photographs)

OPENING Wednesday Dec 28 @ 2 pm Fibernaut Jan 20 - Feb 16 installations, sculptures and prints by Leslie Monahan

Littoral Shapes Feb 17 - Mar 15 sculptures by John Carlson

Leslie Monahan

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

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If you put all the tunnels of the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine end to end they’d stretch 4800km, the distance from Melbourne to Darwin. Lou Storti knows that underground map by heart, even in the dark.

Now 81, Lou started as a miner there at 19, fresh off the boat from northern Italy. The humble, down-to-earth Italian spent most of his life down those blackened burrows, hacking away by hand at the coal seams.

Volunteer tour guide Kevin Guthrie, who leads tourists along the historic passageways, tells me locals have dubbed Lou the ‘Godfather’ of this mine. It’s a title bestowed with genuine respect on a man who has dedicated his life to the 100-million-year-old carbonised plant matter that lies beneath the town of Wonthaggi.

Although coal production in the mine ceased in 1968, every Tuesday night the hulking Italian and a band of six to eight volunteers still make the 400-metre descent to that underground world to keep its 95- yearold structures in good repair. After four hours of lugging timber, and reinforcing the roof with steel bolts, they head off to the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club for a hot meal.

You can understand Lou’s ongoing connection to the earth. For the northern Italian, the land has always been significant. He was born in Recoaro, an hour inland from Venice, and his mountain village was famous for mineral water sourced from the local thermal springs. The mountain had 52 secret tunnels dug through it during World War II. As a child, Lou loved that land – growing apples, pears, and potatoes. He never knew his father, who left for Australia in the late 1920s to work as a miner in Kilcunda, and only returned for a few months when Lou was an adult.

When Lou made his own journey to Australia, he admits it was a difficult transition, a huge culture shock. “The first year was very hard. If I could have walked back to Italy, I would have.” He’d traded the wide-open spaces of his rugged mountain village for the damp, dark confines of a coalmine – crawling on all fours with a pick in his hand, and a tiny light on his helmet.>

words katie cincotta photos warren reed

godfather of the mine coast 70

The ďŹ rst year was very hard.

If I could have walked back to Italy, I would have.

Godfather of the mine

By Katie Cincotta

coast 71

The Friends of the State Coal Mine invite you to experience the primitive underground conditions of black coal mining during the 1900s.

Let one of their volunteers enthrall you with stories of tunnels filled with men and pit ponies, dust and dim lights. See how their tools and equipment are still in place as if the miners have just walked away...

Tours daily • Garden Street Wonthaggi • Phone. 5672 3053 coast 72

Instead of ‘Good morning’, they told me the normal greeting was ‘f*** off’. Little buggers. Luckily, the older Italians told me it was swearing.

Paid per ton, Lou remembers earning seven pounds a week – decent money, but the work was dirty down there, where the air was thick, the toilets were emptied only once a week and you had to hide your lunch from scurrying rats. I grimace in horror at the thought, but Lou remains calm and philosophical about the conditions. It was hard, but you got used to it. And the money wasn’t bad.”

When my seven-year-old son and I venture into the mine, our guide Kevin points to a strange wooden box in a small hollow off the main track. He asks Ben what he thinks it is. “Is it a treasure box?”

Kevin laughs. “Well… not quite: it’s a toilet, a miner’s dunny. There was one of these every 1000 metres. It was pitch black in these tunnels, so if you were bashful you’d just turn your helmet light off. But you had to keep whistling and singing. Because if somebody raced along the tunnel and dropped their strides to jump on, and it was already occupied, ‘Sorry’ didn’t quite cut it!”

Lou laughs into his espresso when I tell him that story. He remembers the indignities well.

His first job down the hole was to direct the horses with voice commands including ‘gee off ’, ‘come here’ and ‘giddy up’. But his poor English had the horse confused, and unwilling to work. “The boss told me the words, but then I forgot them and the horse kept going the wrong way. I went back to the boss and told him I couldn’t get the animal to do what I wanted. And he said, ‘There’s nothing wrong with the horse, mate – you just need to learn English.’ ” Lou admits there were solid friendships formed among the miners, but some Aussies played a prank on him when he first started. “Instead of ‘Good morning’, they told me the normal greeting was ‘F*** off ’. Little buggers. Luckily, the older Italians told me it was swearing.”

As a young man, Lou was a smoker, and once did a deal with the mine supervisor promising to deliver 36 skips of coal in a day to earn a smoke break on the surface. “We did it every day for a week, making about 30 ton of coal every day. That’s what we did for a smoke.” He shakes his head in disbelief, having given up now more than 10 years ago.

Like most miners, he had close calls, including a blasting where his partner set off the detonator at the wrong time. “By jeez, I was lucky.

Two blokes walked past and one of them said ‘Righto’, but my partner thought it was me giving the signal, so he set it off. Luckily the blasting wasn’t very big and the material was soft, otherwise it would have blown my head off.”

11Kevin says that some 80 men and 422 horses lost their lives in the mine. For Lou, what made the risks worth taking was the opportunity to provide for his wife Ida, a local woman of Italian descent, and their four children: a carpenter, a plumber, an agriculturalist now in North Queensland and his only daughter, a psychologist – a ‘psycho’ as Lou jokes. For him, family came first, unlike his estranged father who had abandoned his brood, leaving Lou’s mother in Italy to run a guesthouse over the summer, and handcraft shoes in the winter, struggling to support four young children.

Not long before he left for Australia, Lou recalls the German occupation of his town, and the day 18 U.S. fighter planes dropped 300 bombs over the region. “The Yankees were flying and there was an Italian pilot from Recoaro who missed the town and blew up the Germans. When they dropped those bombs, it felt like the end of the world. I was out in the paddock cleaning up, and it shook the whole mountain.” He shows me the history as he leafs through books brought back from his recent seven-week trip to his homeland, which he made sorrowfully without his wife, who passed away in May. He speaks beautifully of Ida, who he says was the ‘Belle of the Ball’ three times at local functions, and a wonderful dancer. Regretfully, Lou never managed to master the upright grace required on the dance floor, having spent much of his life hunched inside a tunnel.

“I was a shocking dancer. I’ve got legs like bloomin’ tree stumps. We only had one dance – at our wedding.”

Lou reckons the secret to his longevity is Ida’s cooking. “She was a good woman, laughed all the time, and never hated anybody.” And, six months after her death, he still thinks he hears her calling him from the back door, asking if he wants a coffee. ‘Vecchio (old man)!

Want a cuppa?’ she’d tease him. After 52 years of marriage, some habits are hard to break.

But the mine and 14 grandchildren keep Lou busy, giving him a sense of purpose. When they begin ferrying tourists to the tunnels on a new skip which he calls the ‘monkey cage’, the Godfather will be there at the helm, guiding curious visitors down to his second home – a place that made a man of him, and unearthed the riches to be found in hard work among trusted comrades.

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Coal Creek...

promotional feature

a whole new world! words jeannie hicks photos lucas piera and coal creek

A dynamic program of fun family events has been the key factor in the dramatic revitalisation of Korumburra’s iconic attraction, Coal Creek. Halloween in October was one such example, inciting over 4000 visitors from across Gippsland and Melbourne to dress up in the macabre and join in the fabulously spooky event.

And Coordinator Rowena Ashley couldn’t be happier. “The Village was established in 1974 to preserve the unique mining and railway history of the area,” she explained. “But new technologies and time have changed the ways families use their leisure time and it became evident that we needed to look at the village concept afresh and adapt to modern demands.”

As a result, the Village was revamped by South Gippsland Shire Council in 2008 to become the Coal Creek Community Park and Museum. In the ensuing three years visitation has leapt by a staggering 463%.

“We abolished the admission fee, community groups became involved using the Park as their home base, and the historical buildings and collections were refurbished,” said Rowena.” The events program was expanded to include a Giant Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday, a Teddy Bears” Picnic on the Queen’s Birthday weekend, Pirates Day in September, Halloween, regular evening ghost tours and our much loved Christmas Carols in December. We also host conferences, festivals and weddings, so it’s an extraordinary resource for the community.”

Ensuring there is something for everyone, a Farmers’ Market is held in the car park on the second Saturday of the month, and artists queue to have their exhibitions back to back in the Community Art Gallery in the foyer next to the Visitor Information Centre.

You’re bound to meet Edward and Edwina, the cheeky and curious resident emus, as you stroll through the grounds. You can feed the ducks and water birds on the lake, and grab a light lunch or Devonshire tea at the cafe next to the lake ...or bring a picnic!

“The park is also very popular with school groups which can participate in fun sessions that include school lessons, bush cooking and bush skills. Often students will return to the park with their parents on the weekend and become tour guides themselves, imparting the knowledge they have learnt during their school visit. This is when we know that our Education Program, which is based on the Victorian Essential Learning System, has given the children a truly unique experience.”

Over 13 community groups use the Park, including the Grow Lightly Group that packs their locally grown veggie boxes at the Sustainability Centre each week. There is a playgroup each Friday, a Men’s Shed and Coal Creek Probus members regularly meet at the Park.

“At Coal Creek, everything old is new again,” says Rowena. “This is a great community story with a very happy ending, and we have so much fun working with our volunteers to put smiles on faces!”

Upcoming Events:

When there’s not an event on, there’s still plenty to see and do: spinning and blacksmith demonstrations, giant chess to play in the sun, a ride on the bush tramway, fascinating history of South Gippsland that is captured in the buildings and collections to explore, and if you’re old enough you’ll swoon with nostalgia in the General Store, packed to the rafters with old kitchen gadgets and groceries you will remember from childhood.

• Carols at the Creek - 16 Dec

“If we had a dollar for every time someone said: ‘my mum had one of those’, we’d be very profitable!” laughed Rowena. “Few people are able to resist the old fashioned lollies that we sell there too.”

• Australian Fine Art Investment Exhibition & Seminar - 3 - 30 May

• Farmers’ Markets - Second Sat of the month • Ghost Tours - 10 Dec 2011 & First Sat of the month 2012 • The Ships That Shaped Australia Exhibition - 3 Feb - 31 Mar • Easter Egg Hunt - 8 April • Teddy Bears’ Picnic - 10 June

Coal Creek Community Park & Museum, Silkstone Rd, Korumburra Call 5655 1811. www.coalcreekvillage.com.au coast 74

The all new Hyundai i40 Tourer has arrived at Edney’s Leongatha.

Features 2.0 petrol or 1.7 turbo diesel, 9 air bags, esp & abs & a maximum 5 star ANCAP safety rating.

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

Community Park & Museum

Community Gallery

Ships that shaped Australia Australian Masters of Art

Regular Events

Monthly Farmers Market, Ghost tours. Easter Egg Hunt, Teddy Bears picnic, Pirates day, Literary festival & Halloween

Education Programmes

Coal Creek offers a unique learning environment. Set in the time of Federation the village depicts life in early settlement

Available for

Weddings, Corporate Events, Group Bookings, Birthday Parties or any special occasion

FREE ENTRY Pack a picnic lunch for an affordable family day out Open Thursday to Monday, 10.00AM to 4.30PM 7 Days during Victorian School Holidays South Gippsland Highway, Korumburra 5655 1811

www.coalcreekvillage.com.au coast 75

A shop that is......

SO! AMAZING, SO! VIBRANT, SO! ALMOST OVERAWING...

It takes shopping to new heights.

Come and see!

GIFTWARE JEWELLERY

SCARVES

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57 Bair St Leongatha.

Open weekdays 9–5:30 Sat 9–1 Ph 5662 3103

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’ whatsnew this summer

pantai living Your one stop shop for stylish, quality decor.

If your looking for indoor and outdoor furniture, look no further than Pantai Living, Shop 113B Thompson Ave, Cowes. www.pantailiving.com.au

There are now enough styles of Crocs shoes to wear every day! Comfortable, colorful, lightweight, fun and stylish shoes for women, men and kids. Croc: more than just a clog! Available at Rod Bendings World in Inverloch and select outlets.

crocs

mookah

rainbows @ cowes A multi-colour adventure for the shopaholic, this funky emporium offers retro, vintage, collectables, antiques, books and pre-loved designer-brand gear all under one roof. Check it out! 223 Settlement Rd, Cowes.

mookah is a small, independent, handmade label offering a range of stylish, contemporary and eco friendly homewares. A visit to their new store is a must at 32 Cashin Street, Inverloch www. mookah.com.au

linton la fontaine eve fashions Eve specialises in fashions for women of all shapes and sizes. Come and check out their fabulous range - either in store at 113B Thompson Ave Cowes, or online at www. evecreations.com.au They specialise in PLUS size resort wear and offer an online measurement and purchase service.

Linton la Fontaine’s garden boutique has a unique range of fashion, jewellery, bags, homewares and gifts for everyone. Make sure to drop in at 42 Ranelagh Drive, Mt Eliza or shop online at www. lintonlafontaine.com.au

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words sally o’neill photos warren reed

It’s not such a hard day at the office when you have to take to the waters of Inverloch’s Anderson Inlet to test drive the new hybrid kayaks. Why paddle when you can peddle . . . or sail.

We’re here to trial the craft leading a new era in kayaking under the expert tuition of David Walsh. I’m given a quick run-down on how the kayaks work and we take to the water in a tandem Adventure Island. David shows me how to pedal gently, how to turn and to unfurl the sail. It is surprisingly easy to put it all together. Gone are the days of building up the biceps paddling in kayaks – these newgeneration craft offer paddle, pedal and sail. Before I know it, I am flying solo – alternating between pedalling and catching the gentle breeze with the sail.

The ride is comfortable: the seats allow you to lay back, so it’s easier to pedal. This also makes it very kind on your back, as you’re not holding yourself up like in many paddle-only kayaks I’ve been in.

As I hit the open water and convert to sail, I lay back and drink in the sounds of the lapping water and feel the sun on my face. It has literally taken only fifteen minutes to graduate from novice to solo skipper en route to new adventures.

It takes no time for the entire Coast team to get the hang of it, so we take off across Anderson Inlet and land expertly on the deserted beach of Point Smythe. It feels a world away. And that is the magic of having a craft such as this: you can get to remote places – without fuel or noise. They are also perfect for fishers and bird watchers as they are stable, quiet, and leave your hands free for binoculars and cameras.

It seems a few intrepid explorers have been here before us, and we ‘discover’ a gorgeous tepee made of smooth, weather-sculpted branches. I step inside, and for a moment I am in my own dream home – until the tide comes in.>

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coast outdoors

Sailing takes me away . . . kayaking inverloch in style

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UpBeet is all about creating solutions and supporting people who want to have a happier, healthier, upbeat lifestyle...come relax, have aCore branding San Remoin,Pharmacy. chat while grabbing a fresh juice or You have a number of elements smoothie from our very popular Juice you’ve used, or w medical crosses, san serif type, Bar. Try our home-made yoghurt, orange panels. As muffins made from our freshly milled I have devised a cunning plan. flour, or our new gourmet salads orA contemporary br which has embedded in it, the iconic cross. ready made meals that you can eat in, or take away for lunch or dinner...

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123 Marine pde, San Remo, 3925 Fax: 5678 5376 Email: sanremo.pharmacy@nunet.com.au 23/11/11 1:42 PM

coast outdoors

We hop back in the kayaks to head across the inlet. The weather continues to be kind to us and I chat to David as we glide along. After working in retail for the likes of David Jones, David realised his dream of owning a pub with a partner. “We made it happen, and had seven good years running the Standard Hotel in Fitzroy. It was hard work, but lots of fun. It’s great that there’s a party always going on around you, but eventually you’ve had enough,” says David.

A friend Rick Swaney was building a house in Venus Bay, so he went down to help him – and loved the place. “I was lucky that the general store came up for sale and I ran that for five years. You always have the idea that you move to the country to chill out, but it was busy,” he admits.

He gradually expanded the store and “added a little life to it”. Then, as with many great ideas, the next phase of his life was born over a few drinks one night. The name ‘Rod Bending’ came up, and David started to run with. Melbourne artist Declan Hallinan created a logo and signage, and David translated his love for fishing into a business plan. They expanded the store to include fishing and beach items.

In an even more unlikely twist, David turned his hand to writing. “I found

that there were very few books about fishing for kids that were non-technical. We wanted to emphasise the lighter side of the sport, so I went ahead and wrote one myself. I only got 50 for HSC English, so thank god for SpellCheck!” he laughs. A third book is now in the making, and David is working on a pilot for an animated version for television.

The Rod Bending store has now moved to Inverloch and keeps David busy with little time for enjoying the sport he loves. When he gets the chance, he loves night fishing on the Venus Bay beaches and kayak fishing on the mighty Tarwin River.

He is passionate about the kayaks we are trialling today – or maybe a better word would be ‘evangelistic’. “I was introduced to the Hobie Mirage Drive kayaks in an American magazine, chased them down and bought one sight unseen,” says David. In the first two to three years 80% of the craft were bought by fishermen, but now about 40% of buyers are families, nature lovers and birdwatchers. “They are perfect for the family and have beena great way to introduce my daughters Kiarra and Juanita to the water,” says David as we glide into the shore on Anderson Inlet.>

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Rod Bending’s World PEDAL,PADDLE,SAIL

www.rodbendingsworld.com Your local Authorised Hobie Kayak Dealer.

Family, fun and fishing in your Hobie Kayak, the kayak you can peddle paddle or sail.

Call David on 0428637471 for a test drive of the Hobie Mirage Drive Kayak.

Feel the comfort, the stability and the performance. Sit back and enjoy the hands free experience. For recreation or fishing, there is a Hobie Kayak to suit your needs.

Rod Bending’s has a full range of accessories and specialize in fishing fit-outs.

BOOK A FREE TEST DRIVE 0428637471

VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE FOR ALL YOUR KAYAKING & KAYAK FISHING NEEDS

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE VIDEO’S rodbendingsworld.com

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

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What makes Hobie Kayaks the best ride: • Hobie has been making watercraft since the 1950s, and its latest creation is the result of years of experience combined with the introduction of pedals. The Miragedrive is easy to use, quiet, and creates no splash.

• Leaves your hands free for fishing, photography or holding a drink.

• Your feet rest naturally on the pedals for quick, effortless, back-and-forth motions.

• Much faster and more efficient than paddling.

• The large muscles in your legs produce more powerful propulsion than your arms in a paddled kayak.

• No annoying water dripping from a paddle.

Features include moulded carrying handles, large covered bow-hatch, sail mount, twopiece fibreglass paddle, cockpit-mounted pedals and rudder control. They are available in one- or two-person options.

Models we tested: Single and Tandem Adventure Multisport Trimaran, Paddle, Pedal or Sail.

David offers test drives’ of Hobie Kayaks on Anderson Inlet in Inverloch for prospective buyers.

Call 0428 637 471 or visit him at 8 Williams St, Inverloch or www.rodbendingsworld.com

promotional feature coast 83

magical mordialloc

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

This seaside suburb has charm, style and more than one secret to discover…

The palm trees that line the promenade of Mordialloc’s main shopping strip ooze history – it all feels a bit LA, actually. The Nepean Highway dissects the village and city-bound traffic rushes by. But stop for a while and you’ll find that behind these historic palms is a town bustling with life – and plenty of character.

There’s a friendly vibe in ‘Mordy’, as the locals refer to it. There’s also a ‘solid’ feel – many business owners have been happily settled here for years. The shopping strip offers friendly service, style and a huge variety of unique retail experiences – with the bonus of good, fresh sea air.

The vibrant shopping village captures the Mordy essence – everyone is friendly and bubbly and full of fun. Some businesses warrant the title of ‘institution’: Mordy Surf, for example, has been operating here for over 40 years. The closest surf break would be Gunnamatta, but the team tells me that the waves across the road in Port Phillip Bay occasionally become surfable.

The extensive range of unique stores covers everything from flowers to homewares, organic goods and fashion. Salons offer all manner of

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hair and beauty treatments, and cafes, restaurants and bars open from sunrise to well past sunset. As the day draws to a close, workers unload from the train station to walk to meet friends at bars, and families and friends come out for a casual meal. The Mordialloc Wine Bar has the unique offer of BYO food: you can buy fresh fish and chips next door and enjoy them with a glass or two of wine al fresco as you watch the world go by. In winter, you can cosy up in front of the fire.

The sculpture at the roundabout marking the entry to the town is a poignant tribute to the boating tradition etched out on the banks of the Mordialloc Creek. For over 100 years, the Pompei family has been building exquisite wooden boats on this site. During these 100 years they have also been rescuing people from the hazards of Port Phillip Bay – Leon Pompei estimates that 2000 lives have been saved in total, and says the family still responds when the call comes.

The imposing timber boatshed, cobwebbed and filled with the remnants of a century of creation, encapsulates the essence of old-time Mordy. We are privileged to take a peek inside and meet Joe Pompei, who at over 70 now tinkers away on his own after losing his brother

promotional feature

Jack several years ago. The pair has built craft for clients worldwide, and Joe tells me they have built several for our local San Remo fleet. “I keep away from the limelight,” he says. “Someone’s gotta pay the bills.”

Down by the Mordialloc Creek, the Pompei family continues to operate its business from a shed just near what used to be called Mordialloc Bridge. It was renamed Pompei Bridge in 2009, the year after Jack died of a heart attack. From the quaint little shed, Rosie and her team sell a wide range of marine paints and boat accessories. They are currently restoring Jack’s old craft, and she says how happy he would have been with the current restoration works along the creek. ‘Mr Mordialloc’ was as well known for his campaigning to improve Mordialloc Creek as he was for his boatbuilding.

A stroll along the creek reveals colourful wooden boats bobbing on the tide. The path leads to the iconic jetty where hopeful fishers dangle their rods in the bay. The wide beach stretches into the distance and you can just glimpse a hazy city skyline across the bay. A huge playground is buzzing with happy kids. Along Beach Road, dozens of fluorolycra-clad cyclists whizz by toward the inner bayside suburbs.

Mordialloc is a unique coastal town with a strong sense of both its heritage as a small seaside village and its modern-day presence as a vibrant retail destination. The Kingston City Council recently completed a plan to guide future developments while carefully preserving and promoting the suburb’s unique character, which is much loved by the community and visitors alike. >

Arts & Events

•

Mordialloc By the Bay - Fine Food and Wine Festival Sat 17 + 18 March 2012 - Peter Scullin Reserve

•

February Summer Revival Event series – through February.

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mordialloc at a glance Love Paris - The brainchild of sisters Lisa and Sass, this is a bold and brassy shopping experience with something for everyone – from an extensive range of homewares, including an interior design service, through to toys, fashion and an amazing Christmas range. Named after Lisa’s daughter, the store donates funds towards children with special needs. “We want to help children to fly as high as they can,” says Lisa.

580 Main Street, Mordialloc Call 9588 2112 and 67 Warren Rd, Parkdale Call 9587 1310 Mordialloc Florist - This is no ordinary florist. Walk into a haven of colour and fragrance where Megan specialises in unique blooms and arrangements. She also offers same-day delivery anywhere in Melbourne.

495 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9587 8595 www.mordiallocflorist.com.au Mordy Surf - This surfing institution has been supplying Melbourne with surf gear since 1970. Mike and his team have an extensive range of boards including many exclusive brands along with fashion, accessories and ski and skate wear. 628 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9587 4485 www. mordysurf.com.au Pompeis Marine - One of Mordialloc’s institutions, the Pompei family has been supplying premium marine and house paints, oils, stains and primers for a lifetime. Their shed by the creek is jammed full of quality marine products and accessories, and their experienced team offers advice on everything marine.

561 Main St Mordialloc - down by the creek. Call Rosie 0418 553 918 www.pompeitrading@bigpond.com Mordialloc Cellar Door - A unique independent wine store and bar. Enjoy wines by the glass or take home by the bottle. Dine in with their unique concept of BYO food – you bring the food, they supply the wine!

622 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9580 6521 www.mordycellardoor.com.au Ella Bache Mordialloc - Indulge in a range of treatments including facials, body treatments, manicures and pedicures. This salon has won the National Ella Bache Award of excellence two years running. Sam says it’s their customer service, professionalism and range of services that puts them above the rest, and their loyal clientele agrees.

485 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9587 4323 www.ellabache.com.au

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www.mordialloc.com

Mordialloc Main Street is a traditional mixed use commercial centre incorporating quality retail, professional services and great dining opportunities. In addition to some great brand names there are also innovative specialty businesses.

It is unique in its location and iconic with its avenue of palm trees and famous blue charter boats. Bordered by, and moments from, picturesque Mordialloc Creek and the beautiful bay beach –it is a real destination, easily accessed by both public bus and train.

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www.mordialloc.com

Love Paris Love Paris Gorgeous Gifts & Homewares.

Be amazed at the incredible array of unique gifts and homeware products.

A memorable shopping experience – something for everyone. • Magical range of Christmas items. • Tempting fashion • Heaps for kids. • Gift registry. • New stock arriving daily. • Sas, Lisa and our devoted team looks forward to welcoming you.

Mordialloc & Parkdale 580 Main St Mordialloc Call 9588 2112 67 Warren Rd, Parkdale Call 9587 1310

Mordialloc Florist

Bayside’s Creative Florist.

Specialising in unique blooms and arrangements.

Just call and we will deliver anywhere in Melbourne the same day.

Open 7 days 495 Main St Mordialloc Call 03 9587 8595 www.mordiallocflorist.com.au

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Ella Bache Established for over 19 years in Melbourne Bayside, our qualified beauty professionals always strive to provide the very best in customer service and excellence.

Come and visit Sam and her team of exceptional Ella Baché Beauty Therapists and let them relax, rejuvenate and de-stress you!

• Give your skin a boost with our specialty facial & body treatments • Manicures & pedicures • Waxing & tanning • Expert advice

485 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9587 4323 www.mordiallocellabache.com.au

Mordialloc Cellar Door 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

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www.mordialloc.com

Mordy Surf Shop Selling surfing dreams since 1970.

Specialising in • Vouch• McTavish• Gato • Takayama• Surf Tech• Town + Country• Al Merrick• Firewire• Seven S• JS Huge range of boards, surf, skate and snowboarding gear.

Come in and chat to our experienced team.

628 Main St, Mordialloc Call 9580 1716 475 Riversdale Rd, Camberwell Call 9813 0433 www.mordysurf.com.au

Pompei’s Marine Trading for over 70 years.

We search the world to being you the best products at the best prices.

Premium paints and accessories • Marine paints • House interior and exterior • Decking oils • Paving paints • Fence paints • Colourbond colours • Galvanised and zinc oxide primers

561 Main St Mordialloc - down by the creek Call Rosie 0418 553 918 pompeitrading@bigpond.com

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Pompei’s Marine

A beautiful contradiction.

Fun yet frugal, the sporty and stylish CT 200h is the world’s first compact luxury hybrid hatch. Balancing power with fuel efficiency, the 1.8 litre four-cylinder petrol-electric hybrid engine produces low emissions and features an all-new Luxury model alongside Prestige, F Sport and Sports Luxury grades. L Finesse styling combines with four driving modes: refined and efficient in EV, ECO and NORMAL, or switch to SPORT for more fun behind the wheel.

Find out why Lexus of Brighton is Victoria’s number 1 Lexus dealer.

Contact us to book your test-drive today.

Lexus of Brighton

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99 Nepean Hwy, Elsternwick VIC 3185

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(03) 9524 2099

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lexusofbrighton.com.au

Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick is 45km southeast of Melbourne.

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

Princes Hwy, Berwick 3806 Tel: 03 9707 5818 www.wilsonbotanicpark.com.au coast 91

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A personal journey of loss led to a joyous discovery of love, life and laughter 7000 miles away in a small African village. words & photos maria reed

a hearts‘ voyage

kager village

Standing high on a hilltop singing with small Kenyan children, holding hands and exchanging smiles, it’s hard for me to imagine that these are some of the world’s most disadvantaged children. So many sad stories, yet these orphans are considered the lucky ones.

Heartsprings Children’s Village (a project supported by volunteer organisation Orphfund Australia) cares for and educates Kenyan orphans, providing them with hope for a brighter future.

hosts Tom and Rose, we were soon introduced to the children who grabbed our hands, squealed, laughed and danced around us. They asked many questions and eagerly showed us where they ate, slept, studied and played. We took photos, and in no time the photographers became the photographed. When our cameras were returned (many hundreds of shots later) we giggled at shots of handstands, faces up close and friends striking poses.

Leaving my beloved husband and two-year-old daughter behind*, it was with a heavy heart that I boarded a flight from Melbourne to Nairobi to join a small group of volunteers. Our family has always felt passionately about helping children, and after several years of waiting to adopt an orphaned child from China (which sadly never came to pass) we decided we could help by working with orphaned children in their own countries.

We were led, hand-in-hand, to the place we’d call home for the next month or so. A simple brick bunkhouse, it could accommodate up to 30 volunteers with their backpacks, muddy boots and steaming socks – a smell we all became accustomed to very quickly. A mattress and mosquito net were more than we had expected, and made sleeping a joy after a hard day’s labour. Pit toilets and bucket showers were rudimentary – but practical, given the lack of sewerage or running water. Life was pared back to simple basics, but we all seemed a little happier in these surrounds.

Our volunteer group was about to embark on a project to build extra housing and give support to a small community orphanage in the village of Kager. The 8-hour drive from Nairobi to Kager gave us plenty of time to get to know each other and marvel at the expanse of the Great Rift Valley on the way. All too soon we became familiar with the African pit toilets and food staples of ugali and skummerwiki – a filling meal of ground maize and greens.

In my imagination we were headed to a dry, desolate country, but travelling to the village we were surprised to see green hills and fertile crops. Unlike East Africa, which is suffering the ravages of drought, this part of Kenya is receiving abundant rains. After several hours on bumpy roads, our matatu driver manoeuvred the small bus up a treed, rocky driveway and announced that we had arrived at Heartsprings. Welcomed like long lost friends by our Kenyan

Our volunteers met with another highly organised group from Orphfund Israel, who quickly whipped our ‘laid-back Aussie style of organisation’ into shape. Rosters were drawn up for breakfast and dinner duty, dish-washing, buying food and fetching water supplies.

Despite some initial grumblings the work was done (and some fun was had along the way!) Communal dinners gave us the chance to get to know each other and compete for the ‘most imaginative cook’ title whilst working with the simplest ingredients.

Tom and Rose gave generously of their home for use as a communal meeting space, and also shared meals with us there. We felt like members of their extended Kenyan family, and their hospitality made us feel very much a part of village life. Arriving late on a Saturday>

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afternoon, we were all invited to join them at the outdoor village church the next day (even though Orphfund is a non-religious/ political/denominational organisation). It turned out to be a marathon spectacle of several hours, and we only discovered later that it was the finale to a church conference that had been going on for days. The children sang and the preachers gave their feistiest sermons (not to be outdone by other visiting preachers). It was an enlightening experience.

We woke early the next day to make a start on the building works.

With our small team, we surveyed a mountain of handmade bricks that needed moving and stacking into piles, ready for the Kenyan bricklayers. A national teachers’ strike for fair pay coincided with our arrival, so we had an eager audience of children who laughed as our over-loaded, wonky wheelbarrows tipped over whenever we hit a bump. Deciding there was a better way, we set up a brick ‘chain gang’ with many eager volunteers, making the process much easier. In our gang, young brothers Vincent and Bruno and their friends laughed and joked along, making the task much more enjoyable. We had so many helpers and it was such a lovely, natural way to make friends with the children and find out more about their personal stories.

At lunchtime we would all sit down in the shed and eat a filling meal of ugali (maize), skummerwiki (green leafy vegetable), beans and the occasional treat of eggs or fish cooked in pots over charcoal. In true African style, no one would miss out, and any visitors, (including a local farmer who volunteered his time to mend worn-out school shoes) were given a hearty plateful.

Back on the job we realised the great need here, not only for tools (theirs were the most basic and were falling to pieces), but for so many other things we take for granted. It’s hard to believe that people can really survive on so little, but seeing children dressed in clothes of the barest cloth held together with a few stitches, we were confronted by this stark reality.

As we prepared foundations for the slabs to be laid, we realised the importance of ingenuity, of which the Kenyans have bucketloads. A piece of wood becomes a digger, leveller, bracer and compactor all in one. Our soft hands began to harden with each barrow of sand and gravel moved. It was a good feeling at the end of each day to have that serene physical tiredness only a good day’s work can achieve.

The team worked hard, but there were also many opportunities for fun. A party was organised for the little kids, with music, food, drinks and presents. They were all given balloons, but they stood somewhat awkwardly holding them aloft, unsure of what to do with them. Once

a volunteer bounced one and went chasing after it, they all started to volley their balloons to each other, laughing when they popped and hit the ground. A disco for the older kids was a hit, and I don’t think we had all laughed, boogied and sweated so much in a long time. It made me understand the old cliché about ‘white people can’t dance’: Kenyan kids sure can!

Every project run by Orphfund sees each volunteer pay their way and raise money (in a variety of fun or wacky ways) to contribute to the building works undertaken. Our team managed to collectively raise enough funds to buy materials and employ a Kenyan building team for 2 houses and a rotunda, several water tanks, bunk beds and 100’s of fruiting plants. Previous projects created a school, clinic, library and chicken farm, and there are future plans to create a dairy to help make the village sustainable. We were all desperately awaiting the arrival of staff for the newly-built clinic, as the shock of a seriously ill child drove home the reality that no medical care was available. They were completely vulnerable in a situation of illness or accident – there was literally no help at all.

Individual child sponsorship is helping orphans to look forward to a brighter future, and sponsorship will continue to assist the evergrowing population of youngsters. During our stay we created space for approximately 15 more children. When word of this spread through the community, 130 orphans arrived to be interviewed and registered. Under the shade of a tree, we heard heartbreaking stories of poverty and sadness. Trying to decide which children were most in need was one of the hardest tasks to be faced.

Volunteering, which creates a deep understanding of those genuinely in need, is such a valuable experience for an individual (or family) to participate in. Meeting the children, teenagers and adults made us realise that they have the same needs and desires we all do – a safe and healthy environment, food, shelter, education and love. In situations of poverty, they are looking for a ‘hand up’, rather than a handout. This is abundantly clear when you see how enthusiastic the children are to learn. Education is seen as a gift rather than a 11right, and we were amazed to find the children studying hard at every opportunity.

Orphfund is desperately seeking more sponsors for projects throughout Africa and Asia. For less than a dollar a day you can help provide an orphaned child with food, shelter and an education. If you have ever thought of being involved in a volunteer project, you can join an organisation such as Orphfund www.orphfund.org or one of the many similar volunteer organisations such as www. australianvolunteers.com or www.voluntourism.org.

*Footnote: We were to travel over to Kenya as a family, but last minute word from our travel doctor advised against taking our 2 year old girl as the malaria risk was very high.

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COWES DOCTORS Medical Clinic Phillip Island

Come in and Meet our friendly team and expert GPs at our new location in cowes DR AZAD KADOM (FRACGP, MBChB)

Dr Kadom has many years of experience in general practice.

Trained in the UK, she obtained her higher degree of general practice from the Australian College of GPs. She has worked at the Northern Hospital, Bendigo Base Hospital Emergency Department, the Austin Hospital, Mercy Women’s and the Royal Women’s Hospital. Her many years experience in Women’s health - looking after pregnant women and shared maternity care make her expert in her field.

DR RAWA FADHEEL (MBChB)

Dr Rawa Fadheel is well known by the Island since 2005. She joined Cowes Doctors in November 2011 (and also works as a part-time GP in Melbourne).

She enjoys the challenge of working as a GP on the Island, with many complicated cases. Dr Fadheel graduated in Bagdad, Iraq and has worked in New Zealand and Australia for the last 12 years.“I love dealing with people and giving the best of my knowledge and compassion to help them,” she says

DR TAREK IBRAHIM (MBChB)

Dr Tarek Ibrahim has vast experience in general practice - particularly in rural areas. He has a strong interest in Men’s Health and in emergency medical procedures. He gained his qualifications and completed his initial training in Egypt. In 1999 Dr Ibrahim and his family left Cairo and migrated to Australia. He has practiced in every state of Australia except WA and NT.

12 warley avenue, cowes 3925 www.cowesdoctors.com.au

03 5952 coast 5877 95

Use technology to reduce paper waste.

Make the switch to online marketing and sales.

A website is a dynamic business tool to promote your products and services around the clock to every business and household worldwide, reducing the need to print brochures.

If you rely on paper-based brochures, catalogues, newsletters, price lists or order forms, talk to Meehan Design and move your business online. Engage and educate customers, increase sales, cut down costs and reduce your impact on the environment with a website.

Electronic brochures Email newsletters Mailing lists Search engine optimisation

Product catalogues Online shopping portal Image galleries Update content instantly

Visit www.meehandesign.com.au or call (03) 9495 1265 and make the switch.

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Archies on the Creek

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

Banksia Cafe

Promontory Rd, Fish Creek Call 5683 2628 Coffee, amazing food and art

Boyz@Manyung

1408 Nepean Hwy, Mt Eliza Call 9787 7911 Fresh and tantalising fare

Carmies Kitchen

144 Marine Parade, San Remo Call Call 5678 5589 Delicious homemade food

Cafe@Churchill Island Off the coast of Phillip Island Phone 5956 7834 Fresh produce and great coffee

Claypot Curry House

733 Turnbull-Woolamai Rd, Woolamai Call 0425 748 907 Delicious curries

Coast Restaurant and Bar 2827 Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie Call 5988 0700 Great food by the sea

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Champions Cafe

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

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

Cafe Chocolatte

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

Esplanade Hotel 1 A’Beckett St Inverloch Phone 5674 1432 Delicious meals

Harry’s on the Esplanade

17 The Esplanade Cowes Phone 5952 6226 Fresh seafood & more

Henriettas

48 Bair St Leongatha Call 566 25856 Coffee and meals in style

La Provincia

Red Elk Coffee Lounge

Mc Clelland Gallery Café

Silverwater Resort

Nobbies Centre

Upbeet Health Foods

Old Dalyston Deli

Vietnam Vets Museum

105 Corinella Rd, Corinella Call 5678 0382 Cafe & farmgate produce

Call 9789 1671(ext 110) www.mcclellandgallery.com Dine amongst the sculptures

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

74 Glen Forbes Rd Dalyston Phone. 5678 7377 Breakfast, Lunch & Pizza

Mordialloc Cellar Door 622 Main St, Mordialloc Phone 9580 6521 Fine wine, BYO food

RACV Resort

70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd Inverloch Phone 5674 0000 Contemporary cuisine

27 A’Beckett St, Inverloch Call 5674 3264 Brilliant coffee, contemporary menu.

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

125 Graham St Wonthaggi Fresh healthy food and juice

25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven Call 5956 6400 Coffee and light meals

Welshpool Hotel 21-23 Main St, Welshpool Call 5688 1209 Voted best country bistro

Wonthaggi Health & Ecology

117 Graham St, Wonthaggi Call 5672 2685 Healthy snacks, lunches and juice

Infused

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

Let’s eat! coast 99

Above Images - Archies on the Creek

Above Images - Infused Restaurant

Above Images - Harrys on the Esplanade

Archies on the Creek

Infused Restaurant

Harrys on the Esplanade

‘Country friendly – City sharp’ Country Victoria’s finest modern steak house, and winner of a Chef’s Hat Award in the AGFG 2011, this stunning lakeside à la carte dining room showcases seasonal produce in an elegant setting. The wine cellar boasts over 20,000 bottles, many from Gippsland’s top vineyards, as well as international wines and those hard-to-find varieties sourced by the cellar-master.

The combination of professional, relaxed service with fresh and innovative modern Australian cuisine at Infused ensures a memorable dining experience. The casual outdoor wine bar offers the perfect place for a glass of wine or beer and some freshly shucked oysters. A smart wine list, over 16 different beers, and an extensive cocktail menu ensures there is something for everyone.

With unsurpassed views of Cowes beach and the bay, Harry’s Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining on fresh local produce, meats and seafood personally selected by Harry.

An understanding of flavour combinations that complement – not overwhelm – combined with the best ingredients, is the signature of Harry’s culinary creations. Every dish is an experience to savour.

Open Wednesday to Sunday 81 Archies Creek Road, Archies Creek Call 5678 7787 www.archiesonthecreek.com.au

Open 6 days - closed Tuesday 115 Thompson Avenue, Cowes Call 59 522 655 www.infused.com.au

17 The Esplanade Cowes Call 5952 6226 www.harrysrestaurant.com.au

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Above Images - Esplanade Hotel

Above Images - RACV Inverloch Resort

Above Images -Watermark @ Silverwater

Esplanade Hotel, Inv.

RACV Inverloch Resort

Watermark @ Silverwater

The Captain’s Lounge/Restaurant and function rooms upstairs at The Esplanade Hotel are the perfect way to wine and dine your Summer away. Offering dishes with a multicultural influence, there is something here for everyone. Come on a Sunday afternoon for acoustic entertainment, tapas and cocktails made by the friendly staff!

This stylish resort features a bistro and lounge with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows maximising wonderfully dramatic ocean views.

The à la carte menu offers some of the region’s best produce and the wine list showcases a strong selection of hand-picked local Gippsland wines and beers. The Restaurant is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Lounge area is available all through the day and into the evening.

Dine indoors or outdoors overlooking the bay at Watermark@Silverwater. The Bass Coast and neighbouring Gippsland are regions known for their seafood, beef, dairy products and vegetables, and the executive chef’s inspired restaurant menus make the most of these fresh local ingredients and flavours.

1 A’Beckett Street, Inverloch Call 5674 1432 www.invyespy.com.au

70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch Call 5674 0000 www.racv.com.au/inverloch

Phillip Island Tourist Rd, San Remo.

Call 1800 033 403 www.silverwaterresort.com.au

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

aptain’s ounge coast 102

Captain’s hours: Now open Thursday Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday lunch! Now every Sunday afternoon from 12 midday: live music, tapas, cocktails Captain’s Cruisy Sundays Weddings, Engagements, birthdays, conferences & an amazing dining experience.

1 A’Beckett St Inverloch

03 5674 1432

Above Images - Banksia Café

Above Images - Red Elk

Above Images - La Provincia

Banksia Café, Celia Rosser Gallery

Red Elk

La Provincia

Enjoy fresh, simple and tasty food created by the gallery’s new chef. Relaxing lunches and tempting afternoon teas along with great coffee are served in the casual, yet stylish setting. Whilst there, enjoy the spectacular works of world renowned botanical artist Celia Rosser.

Faded claret floorboards, retro décor and a relaxed vibe greet Inverloch’s caffeine addicts at their mecca. Red Elk coffee lounge specialises in a brew to rival Melbourne’s best and its freshly baked treats are impossible to pass by. Licensed and boasting a wraparound deck, Red Elk is the perfect spot for foodies to wile away the summer.

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine made with love and fresh produce grown by the Riccardi family. Open for amazing breakfasts, coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and the occasional dinner, you can dine indoors or al fresco amongst the vines. Purchase fresh produce, cakes, pastries, breads, meats, cheeses and wine all made on site.

Open Friday through Monday 10am - 4pm Promontory Rd, Fish Creek Call 5683 2628 www.celiarossergallery.com.au

27 A’Beckett St Inverloch Call 5674 3264

105 Corinella Rd, Corinella Call 5678 0382

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

ClayPot Curry House

Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine 733 Turnbull-Woolamai Rd Woolamai

2012 Melbourne Food & Wine Festival to be held on Sunday 11th March in conjunction with The Gurdies Winery.

Please check our website for more details & bookings.

Opening Hours Tuesday - Sunday Lunch: 12noon to 2pm Dinner: 6pm to 9:30pm

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phone. 03 9705 2370 mob. 0425 748 907 email. spe10437@bipond.net.au www. claypotcurryhouse.com.au

Above Images - Coast Restaurant

Above Images - Clay Pot Curry House

Above Images - Welshpool Hotel Motel

Coast Restaurant & Bar

Clay Pot Curry House

Welshpool Hotel Motel

Just across the road from Blairgowrie beach, this well-established venue offers modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The executive chef trained with Guy Grossi at Florentinos and his salt and pepper calamari is definitely his signature dish!

There’s an extensive wine list, wide range of beers and live music on Sunday arvos.

This unique restaurant exudes the ambience of Sri Lanka. The owners have recreated a traditional kitchen, transforming it into a fine dining restaurant and cooking school. Menus are carefully selected and the vegetables are grown in the garden on site. Bookings essential. Melbourne Food & Wine Festival event 11 March.

This hotel is rapidly gaining a reputation for its food and friendly service. Its kitchen team has just released an exciting new Summer menu featuring fresh local produce and old favourites. Finalist in the 2011/2012 Australian Hotel Association State Awards for excellence including Best Bistro (Country), Industry Rising Star Award & Overall Hotel of the Year (Country).

Open 7 days, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

2827 Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie Call 5988 0700

733 Turnbull-Woolamai Rd, Woolamai Call 0425 748 907 www.claypotcurryhouse.com.au

21-23 Main St, Welshpool Call 5688 1209 www.welshpoolhotelmotel.com.au

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Summer Fresh Summer Fresh

l Ahern and his team aregiven busy day sourcing the finest freshest On any Paul Ahern and and his team are local busy produce. sourcing the finest and freshest local produce.

kets to the farm gate and Paul markets ensures to all the produce is personally selected From thebeyond, Melbourne farm gate and beyond, Pauland ensures all produce is personally selected and esh blueberries being delivered by fresh Ian from his nearby Ameys Track Berry quality assured,today like the blueberries being delivered todayFarm.

by Ian from his nearby Ameys Track Berry Farm. phy of fresh, quality produce, extensive range and attention to customer service. range and attention to customer service.

Enjoy the Aherns philosophy of fresh, quality produce, extensive

ou will discover . . .

You will discover . . .

resh, ripe fruit and vegetables • Fresh, ripe fruit and vegetables Deli and gourmet goodies such as yoghurt, iceand cream, • Deli gourmet goodies such as yoghurt, ice cream, mallgoods and dips. smallgoods and dips.

Artisan breads • Artisan breads auces, biscuits, drinks, cheeses, antipasto items biscuits, drinks, cheeses, antipasto items • Sauces, Organic and gluten-free goods and rare •gourmet treats.

Organic and gluten-free goods and rare gourmet treats. resh flowers • Fresh flowers

s definitely worth a detour or its own trip journey It’stodefi nitely to worth a detour or its own trip to journey to herns – for a special picnic or dinner party, stocking up Aherns – for a special picnic or dinner party, stocking up n goodies for camping at the Prom and on justgoodies everyday for camping at the Prom and just everyday esh produce and fine food. fresh produce and fine food.

promotional feature Follow them on Facebook

Follow them on Facebook

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Above Images - Churchill Island Café

Above Images - Mc Clelland Gallery Café

Above Images -Old Dalyston Deli

Churchill Island Café

Mc Clelland Gallery Café Old Dalyston Deli

Country charm and quality local produce combine to make this café one of the area’s best-kept secrets. The licensed café offers panoramic views across historic Churchill Island and Westernport Bay. Enjoy great coffee, a menu complemented by constantly changing specials, and functions to suit the seasons. Easy access by bridge.

Enjoy the McClelland Gallery Café for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea. The venue can also be booked for private functions after hours including Mondays. Overlooking a beautiful lake and spectacular sculptures, the café offers elegant seasonal menus and daily specials ranging from soups, sour dough toasties, pizzas and summer salads to our delicious fish of the day. Prices range from $9-$21. Great coffee and brilliant Australian wines.

In the delightful setting of the old Dalyston Church, the current owner – a professional chef – shares his love of good food. Drop in and try the Big Church Brekky on a Sunday, or enjoy a coffee anytime and dig into the chef’s homemade cakes and biscuits. Sunday night is pizza night – eat in or take away. Sunday 8.30 am to 9.00 pm, Wednesday - Saturday 9 am to 3 pm.

Churchill Island, Newhaven Call 5956 7834 www.churchillislandcafe.com.au

McClelland Gallery Café is open Tuesday - Sunday from 10am - 4.30pm Call 9789 1671(ext 110) www.mcclellandgallery.com

Extended summer hours.

74 Glen Forbes Rd Dalyston Call 5678 7377 www.olddalystondeli.com

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Carmie’s Kitchen

Carmie’s Kitchen

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

• Group bookings • Weddings • Private functions

Open 9.00am-4:30pm daily for Breakfast, Lunch, Morning & Afternoon Tea. Please check our website for extended opening hours during Holidays & Weekends Ph. 5956 7834 www.churchillislandcafe.com.au

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Above Images - Carmie’s Kitchen

Above Images - Nobbies Centre

Above Images -Henriettas

Carmie’s Kitchen

Nobbies Centre

Henriettas

Now a San Remo institution, this café serves fresh, quality food with old-fashioned hospitality. Select big breakfasts, delicious lunches, cakes, pastries, milkshakes or coffees and enjoy them in the cosy café, or outdoors with a view across to the bay.

Perched on a cliff with spectacular views over Bass Strait, this café offers light meals, coffee and cake throughout the day. The kids’ play area will keep the children entertained while you relax and enjoy the views. A perfect venue for functions.

The re-opening of this Leongatha icon has been long awaited since a fire devastated the store in May 2010. The new premises incorporates the café into the gorgeous gift shop. Enjoy excellent coffee, lunch, brunch and decadent cakes in a stylish atmosphere

144 Marine Parade, San Remo Call 5678 5589

Open 10am – 8pm during summer Call 5951 2800 www.penguins.org.au

Open Monday to Saturday.

37 Bair St Leongatha Call 5662 5856

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Good Food for all Occasions Weddings • Functions • Pizza • Cafe

Old Dalyston Deli. 74 Glen Forbes Rd Dalyston

Phone. 5678 7377

www.olddalystondeli.com

admin@olddalystondeli.com

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

105 Corinella Road Corinella Phone: 5678 0382 Sat & Sun: 8:30am–5:00pm Monday: 8:30am–3:30pm No credit card facilities available, cash sales only

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Phillip Island Chocolate Factory This unique venue is a chocolate-lover’s dream, featuring chocolate drinks, desserts and treats to die for. The café offers casual dining including foccacias and other favourites, and a range of traditional Malaysian-style dishes cooked on request by Panny himself during weekends and school holidays.

930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Call 5956 6600 www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au

Open Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 Days Live music Sunday afternoons

We can cater for functions & special events Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Come out to Champion’s Cafe where you will enjoy our delicious home made meals including, soups, pastries, foccacias and our famous V8 Burger. Enjoy being surrounded by our beautiful water gardens and wildlife.

Bookings and large groups welcome.

Open every day from 9.00 to 4.30pm.

Back Beach Rd, Cowes Call 5952 9400 www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au

Ph. 5988 0700 2827 Point Nepean road Blairgowrie coast 111

2 • BOTTLE SHOP WITH GREAT WINE SELECTION • TAB /ATM / FREE Wi-Fi • BEER GARDEN • KIDS PLAY ROOM • AMPLE BOAT AND TRAILER PARKING

Hotel Motel

BISTRO OPEN 7 DAYS LUNCH / DINNER

4

FINALISTS IN THE AUSTRALIAN HOTELS ASSOCIATION STATE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE in the following categories:

•Best Bistro (Country) •Best Presented Beer •Best Pub Style Accomm •Industry Rising Star Award (Eithne Ryan) •Overall Hotel of the Year (Country)

Hotel Motel

MOTEL STYLE ACCOMMODATION 21-23 Main St, Welshpool 3996 (03) 5688 1209 www.welshpoolhotelmotel.com.au welshpool hotelA2.indd 1

HENRIETTAS

17/11/11 2:27 PM

C A F E & H O M E WA R E S Largest range of homewares in South Gippsland.

Stockists of Pandora.

You can now visit us online at: henriettas.com.au

relax, browse, coffee, lunch, brunch, decadent cakes Trading hours Cafe

8.30 – 4.30 Monday – Friday 8.30 – 2.00 Saturday

Homewares 9.00 – 5.30 Monday – Friday 9.00 – 3.00 Saturday

37 Bair St Leongatha 3953 03 5662 5856 Henriettas_v5w.indd 1

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24/11/11 2:13 PM

Lolly Lips Ice-Creamery & Café Chocolatte

Hillies Meats

Aherns Fruit and Vegetable Market

Located at A Maze’N Things, this colourful store offers house-made Italian ice creams and gelati, and lollies galore! The café sells coffee and decadent chocolate treats.

Hillies Meats in San Remo recently won the state title of Sausage King for its poultry snags.

Stop in and say hi to Brad and Jill, and check out their range of gourmet goodies, meats, seafood and wine. Hillies stocks a wide range of meats including free-range and chemicalfree cuts.

Best described as a greengrocer, gourmet deli and health food store rolled into one. Aherns offers a wide range of fresh, ripe fruit and vegetables expertly sourced by Paul and state of the art fridges and freezers glistening with deli and gourmet goodies such as yoghurt, ice cream, smallgoods and dips.

1805 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes.

Call 5952 2283 www.amazenthings.com.au

Open 7 days.

119 Marine Pde, San Remo.

Call 5678 5489.

29 Toora Rd, Foster Call 5682 2095

coffee lounge. retro chic. bar. contemporary menu. coffee specialists. wraparound outdoor deck. freshly baked treats. licensed. central location. organic drinks and gluten free friendly. beautiful atmosphere. good for your soul.

“If you want a decent coffee and wholesome food, head to Red Elk cafe and idle away an hour or two on the sunny deck.”

- The Age, Nov 2011 27 A’Beckett St Inverloch

E redelk@aapt.net.au

T 5674 3264

Open 7 days for Breakfast & Lunch

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Even in winter, this is a magical place... For a weekend escape, a wedding or to taste our wine, oil & cheeses.

Vineyard, Olive Grove, Boutique Accommodation & Cellar Door

On the ridge overlooking Wilsons Promontory, Corner Inlet and Waratah Bay. At Waratah North, off Savages and Mathers Roads, at 1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek Victoria Weekend afternoons or by appointment on 5687 1453.

www.basiamille.com.au

1835 Dalyston-Glen Forbes Rd, Glen Forbes

@bassriverwinery coast 114

03 5678 8252 www.bassriverwinery.com

goodwineguide

what’s in a name? words Rick Lacey, Purple Hen Winery

Years ago, wine names were simpler – there was less variety and in the main, names were simply borrowed from Europe. I listened to a 1970 interview with the iconic Australian actor Chips Rafferty in which he recalled he had been a wine salesman – selling Hock and Claret to restaurants around Sydney. In Europe, Hock meant a white a wine from Rhine region of Germany and Claret was a term used in England for a red wine from Bordeaux region in France.

In Chip’s days in Australia the terms meant – a dry white and a dry red, and that really summed up the scene, there were these two wine styles (made from just about any variety or combination of varieties) plus Riesling – which translated to sweet white – and Champagne which meant a local sparkling wine.

With the growth in Australian wine consumption in the 1970s, choice expanded and hence we were treated to names such as Cold Duck (a sweet carbonated red) and Spatlese Riesling (a very sweet white). Thankfully the EU stepped in did us all a favour by insisting that we stop using (abusing) names borrowed from Europe. So Australian producers, along with most other parts of the world, swung over to using the principal grape variety on the bottle – Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, etc.

A great leap forward for clarity, but not the complete journey. New confusions arise. Some are echoes from the past, like the misconception that a Riesling (a variety) must be sweet, whereas, like any variety it can be dry or any degree of sweet – this is a winemaking decision.

Some are completely new – like the confusion about Pinot Gris and Pinot Griggio – different names (French and Italian) for the same grape, and simply meaning Pinot grey. We could add to that confusion by naming this wine Ruländer – the German name for this variety (there is more of this variety grown in Germany than either France or Italy).

The lessons of all this:

Makers of wines that are meant to be sweet will almost certainly tell you on the label, don’t assume it from the variety; and

don’t get hung up about Gris versus Griggio – just try the wine.

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What’s the rush? Relax...

PHILLIP ISLAND WINERY, 414 Berry’s Beach Road, Ventnor. Phone: 5956 8465. www.phillipislandwines.com.au Open daily over summer from 11:00am-6:00pm (and sometimes later into the evening). Live Music every weekend.

Music at the winery every Friday evening in January (weather permitting) Music 6pm - 8pm, Bring your own food or buy a platter.

Bring your own chair or rug if you can.

Winner of Best Pinot Noir, Best Shiraz, Best Sparkling Wine 2011 Gippsland Wine Show Best Red Wine & Most Successful Exhibitor at both 2010 & 2011 Gippsland Wine Shows

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

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Above Images - Bass River Winery

Above Images - Phillip Island Winery

Above Images -Purple Hen Wines

Bass River Winery

Phillip Island Winery

Purple Hen Wines

Bass River is a tiny winery that resembles a small domaine in South Gippsland – in size, approach, passion and very often in the glass.

The vignerons – The Butera Family place emphasis on producing small quantities of premium wines grown only from the estate vineyard, expressing terroir, organic principles to hand craft distinctive regional wines.

Is there a better way to melt the stresses away than with a glass of fine wine, good company and the rolling coastal views of Phillip Island Winery? Fresh platters of Gippsland cheeses, sliced meats and dips, homemade condiments and generous crusty breads make the perfect accompaniment to Phillip Island Winery’s peppery mouth-filling reds and crisp, lean whites.

This award winning local winery is located in a quiet part of Phillip Island near Rhyll - great views and great wines. Winner of Trophies for Best Pinot Noir, Best Shiraz, Best Sparkling Wine and Most Successful Exhibitor at the 2011 Gippsland Wine Show. Light platter available at cellar door.

1835 Dalyston - Glen Forbes Road, Glen Forbes Call 5678 8252 www.bassriverwinery.com

414 Berrys Beach Road, Ventnor Call 5956 8465 www.phillipislandwines.com.au

96 McFees Rd, Rhyll Call 5956 9244 www.purplehenwines.com.au

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EnjoyFineWine and DeliciousFood Come and experience the premium range of some of South Gippsland’s finest wines - Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Rosé and Sparkling. Treat yourself to lunch from our cellar door cafe, serving a range of sumptuous regional platters in a beautiful natural setting.

Browse our cellar door shop offering high quality design and lifestyle products.

20 Cottmans Rd, Fish Creek 3959

www.waratahhills.com.au | P: 03 5683 2441

promotional 30/11/11feature 11:02 AM

Warata Hills_v6W.indd 1

the waratah hills experience

words judy travers

Sophisticated Waratah Hills wines are well known throughout Gippsland, and more recently the vineyard’s Pinot Noir has been on offer in some of Melbourne and Sydney’s best-known wine bars.

Owners Judy and Neil Travers’ prime objective for Waratah Hills is to be a single vineyard producer of high quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Located six kilometres from Fish Creek on the road to Wilson’s Promontory, the 10-acre vineyard was established some 15 years ago.

Seven acres of Pinot Noir and three acres of Chardonnay are planted in the Burgundy style of low trellising and close planting.

Wonthaggi-based Marcus Satchell is the winemaker and vineyard consultant, and is considered one of the rising stars on the Australian winemaking scene. Marcus was recently selected to participate in the prestigious Len Evans Tutorial Week in the Hunter Valley – an event for some of Australia’s most talented emerging winemakers and sommeliers. Waratah Hills also produces a Sparkling Pinot Noir produced

by Gippsland ‘sparkling specialist’ Mal Stewart.

Since taking on the well-established Waratah Hills three years ago, the couple has concentrated on maintaining the vineyard to a high level.

Vines are cane pruned and a strict program of spraying, soil management and maintenance is in place. In recent weeks Neil and Judy have also launched a secondary label called ‘Prom Road’ for a select range of Chardonnay, Pinot Rose and Sparkling all produced from

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grapes grown in South Gippsland. This new range of wines has been produced by Marcus Satchell and Mal Stewart exclusively for Waratah Hills.

Branding of wines has also been a key focus, with new contemporary wine labels launched for Waratah Hills and Prom Road this year. The couple’s own background in public relations and marketing is being used to promote the wines and vineyard via the website and social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

Waratah Hills operates an attractive cellar door that is framed by the rolling green hills of the Hoddle Ranges, and the vineyard picnic area makes an ideal stop for visitors to and from Wilson’s Promontory.

Meals are also available every weekend, and every day throughout January. Next to the cellar door an interesting shop stocks local produce such as olive oil and jams as well as a range of design and lifestyle products.

Opening hours as follows: 11 am to 4pm - Weekends, Public Holidays and daily from 27 December to 15 January.

Above Images - Mallani Wines

Above Images - Basia Mille

Above Images -Waratah Hills Vineyard

Mallani Wines

Basia Mille

Waratah Hills Vineyard

2010 Chardonnay - Crisp and fresh, made from hand-picked, barrel-fermented grapes grown by Don McRae in the hills of Woolamai.

The result is a lightly-oaked, chablis-style wine with hints of citrus. 2009 Pinot Noir - Smoky undertones balance with berry flavours to create a wine that is full and rounded. Made by whole-bunch pressing, it captures the delicious complexity of the fruit.

On the ridge overlooking Wilsons Promontory, Corner Inlet and Waratah Bay, even in winter, Basia Mille is a magical destination. For a weekend escape, a wedding, or just to sip their wine or taste their olive oil and local Tarrago cheeses at their cellar door. Play a game of golf in private, weekend and holiday afternoons, or by appointment.

Waratah Hills Vineyard is located 6 kms south of Fish Creek on the road to the world-famous Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Promontory National Park.

The Travers family is passionate about South Gippslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool-climate wines and operates an intimate cellar door that is both welcoming and relaxing. Enjoying award-winning boutique wines and a quiet lunch of regional platters and plates.

1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek Call 5687 1453 www.basiamille.com.au

11 am to 4pm - Weekends, Public Holidays and daily from 27 December to 15 January.

Call 5683 2441 www.waratahhills.com.au

Both available at Archies on the Creek & other local outlets. www.mallani.com.au

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Munster • Minti • All about Eve the Lost Girls • Kutie Protocol •

Littlehorn • Sudo • Paper Wings • Snugglebum • Seedling Chook Leaf Nutcase Helmets Oishi M • Native Shoes & more...

For every parent and child

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Shop 2, 18-22 Thompson Ave Cowes

mobile: 0403 124 806

www.oyako.com.au

The Speed of Light fleur christie-speed

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

“I knew who I was from the day I was born,” states Inverloch-based artist Fleur Christie-Speed. I don’t doubt that for a second. There’s more than a little of the rebellious teenager she describes left in the lady before me with the skinny black jeans and sparkly eyes.

Not one to follow convention or fashion, Fleur has always marched to her own drum. As we sit surrounded by her works in the Art Gallery of Inverloch, she describes a strong-willed teenager coping with the grief of losing her mother at 16. None of her art teachers liked her. “I was pretty radical with Mum being sick. I’d write on the back of my maths tests: ‘I don’t need this – I’m going to be an artist’. I was really arrogant,” says Fleur.

Her artistic talents were well recognised – and led to an offer to study Fine Arts at RMIT. But the orientation day put her off. “They were all trying to be so different with their shaved heads and blue mohawks. I don’t know if I was intimidated or just wasn’t ready to study art at the time.”

It was the passion for history she had developed at her Nan’s house that directed her next step. “We stayed there a lot during Mum’s illness. I just loved old things – Dad used to call me ‘Birdie’, as I’d pick up anything that shone.”

Aged 17, she left for London on a one-way ticket, bought a suit in an op-shop and walked the High Street to find an apprenticeship. She landed one in hallmark reading (for objects 1837 – 1901). “I stayed for nearly two years and travelled Europe between jobs – I’d just stop and do tattoo designs and things before moving on again.”

So Fleur wore a suit by day and had to conform to the English class

system in a male-dominated industry in the Kent High Street. Her home in the East End with its colour, multiculturalism and markets was more her style. When she broke the ‘Don’t speak unless you are spoken to’ rule one day, her employer apologised. But the client (who was in with her son to get her tiara fixed) found it ‘refreshing’. “Her son invited me out the next day! We went for a walk in the park and he said, ‘My father’s a baron’ and I said, ‘Like the Red Baron?’ He never asked me out again!”

One day on the way to work, she didn’t think twice before jumping onto train tracks to save a man who had thrown himself in the path of an oncoming train. “I jumped on top of him and rolled him off the tracks. I didn’t know that train lines in England are electrified.” She became the first Australian woman to be awarded the British Humane Society Award for bravery. Fleur has always been fearless. She blames her father. “We used to abseil off the house roof as kids, and then Dad took us travelling around Australia for two years in a converted furniture van. We lived with the Aboriginals and Mum schooled us, and we had lots of amazing experiences. Jumping onto the tracks seemed like nothing to me.”

Back from England, Fleur joined a Melbourne antiques firm. “I was the youngest female in that industry at the time and people would often ask to speak to someone older! It was the old boys’ club.” Still restless, she combined periods of travel with work. In Indonesia, she “met a French boy” and lived in Paris for a year – it didn’t work out. >

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‘My work is like me – a bit of everything. I like to play on humour: I have just carved the ‘holy tea-set.’

“My father was so strong and loyal to Mum that he set a high benchmark for men for me,” she says. “I couldn’t settle with men because I had such high expectations.”

A relationship breakup led Fleur to Wonthaggi as a single mother of two. She sold all the antiques she’d collected over the years and bought a little miner’s cottage. “Then I met my husband Tony and we had two kids together, so now we have four. He is the opposite of me: he’s really straight – just an old surfie… cruisy. He just sits there while I yabber on.”

The couple set up an antiques business and bought a house in Inverloch. Art was finally able to re-emerge. ”Because I hadn’t been trained in drawing, I found it hard to mature in my painting. I did a ceramics course and started pushing the boundaries and carving the clay – I wanted to make it sculptural.” Eventually, she left the class and kept creating at home. The delicate, olive-green ceramic bowl currently sitting in the art gallery is more holes than whole but cleverly captures the beauty and form of a sea urchin.

Fleur plucked up her courage and bought her work into the Art Gallery of Inverloch – and Helen and Tamsin liked it. “My work is like me – a bit of everything. I like to play on humour: I have just carved the ‘holy tea-set.”

Her art is varied and includes paintings in pastels, oil, acrylic and multimedia, and ceramics using different glazes and techniques. “Not being trained is really liberating: I can experiment freely with colours and mediums. I don’t like reading too much into artwork – if you like it, you like it. It’s more personal taste.”

And she is quick to add that there’s no real message in her work.

“That’s why my art teachers didn’t like me. I’d always ask, ‘How can you ever know what the artist thought?’ I’m just really spontaneous. Art for me now comes from the same place as it did when I was a kid. Art is my release; it is where I can go to my own place.”

Fleur acknowledges that many people have helped her along the way including “three amazing women Elaine, Jocylyn and Trish.” She

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also believes in giving back and is currently involved in many causes locally and beyond, including sponsoring two girls in Indonesia and putting them through school. “The Balinese and Indonesian people are the most natural artists in the world – they inspire me.” She is also studying social work, and aims to set up an organisation to help get more Indonesian girls off the street.

Fleur does travel at the speed of light: she has a thousand things on the go, and doesn’t want to waste a minute. It was her mother’s death that made her realise that ‘you only get one shot at it’. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes but they are the things that have made me who I am now.

When I look back, it’s like I’ve had 20 lives, and it all seems a bit surreal.”

art gallery of inverloch Helen and Tamsin have spent the past year moulding this charming gallery, sourcing quality art supplies, developing a stable of impressive artists, and improving the gallery layout. Both artists themselves, they have put their own work on hold to nurture local talent, especially up-andcoming artists. Their range spans paintings, prints, kilnfired glass and jewellery. Artists include Adrian Johnson, Marlene Kasper (glass and jewellery), Bob Pelchen (watercolours) and Patricia Hill (glassware). They also stock a range of Art Spectrum Australian-made art supplies and artist materials.

Open Thurs – Mon 10am – 4pm through summer.

www.xover.com.au

Bike hire, Bike sales and repairs, Large range of hybrid and family bicycles, Huge range of bmx and scooters 118 Graham Street Wonthaggi ph: 5672 2270 info@xover.com.au shop online at www.radtothemax.com.au

17B Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett St, Inverloch

Ph: 5674 1133

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Do you Live, Work, Rest or Play in the Bass Coast?

Would you like to give something back to this unique region? Let us show you how

Joanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s donation of $50 assisted someone to attend a specialist appointment in Melbourne, provided through BCCHS Volunteer Medical Transport Program.

You can make a difference

Bass Coast Community Health Service (BCCHS) depends on funding, fundraising, volunteers and donations like yours.

Give us a call and pledge your support PH 5671 9200.

Donations can be made over the phone, via our website, or you may choose to drop it in or post it to the address below.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Pole walking group

Your Donation can assist your neighbour, your friend, your co worker, your family member, someone from the community to access affordable high quality health services and support. It may even be you.

Community engaged in a flag raising ceremony

Electrical Trades Union (ETU ) Members $ 13,000 enabled a MCH Nurse attend the Grantville Playgroup for 6 months, providing a valuable service to parents and children

Maternal child health service

Lifestyle for hearts program Cardiac rehab

Who is Bass Coast Community Health Service (BCCHS) and What do we offer the Bass Coast community?

In previous issues we informed readers about Community Health and BCCHS services. If you are only discovering this outstanding magazine and were not privy to reading the Winter & Spring editions, this brief outline may assist your knowledge.

Bass Coast Community Health Service is a charitable not for profit organisation and was established in 1975 for the community by community.

Services include; Nursing, Physio, Podiatry, Dietician, Occupational Therapy, Chronic Disease Management, Counselling, Support Groups, Community Services, Volunteer Medical Transport, Child Youth & Family Services, Drug & Alcohol Support, Diabetic Supplies & Education, Medical Equipment Hire, Emergency Relief and Maternal Child Health Services.

Your donation or bequest will make a difference to the health outcomes of your community and will be received and acknowledged with appreciation.

Visit www.bcchs.com.au for

1 Back Beach Road,

OTHER LOCATIONS:

SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE AT

further information on services or

San Remo 3925.

Cowes, 03 5952 1200

COMMUNITY VENUES IN:

click the Donate Now button for

T 03 5671 9200

14 Warley Ave.

Inverloch, Grantville, Corinella

a safe and secure way to make a

F 03 5678 5595

Wonthaggi, 03 5671 3500

and home visiting

www.bcchs.com.au

Cnr Watt & Billson Streets.

ACN 136 473 660

difference. coast 124

Young Adult

Non-Fiction

Adult Fiction

Hallowed

Hiroshima Nagasaki by Paul Ham (rrp $55.00 (hardcover))

Forecast: Turbulence

by Janette Turner Hospital

“Nobody is more disturbed ... when you have to deal with a beast you have to treat him as a beast” said President Truman three days after the destruction of Nagasaki. This is a story told in great part through the eyes of 80 Japanese survivors of the two bombs which instantly killed more than 100,000, mostly women, children and the elderly, while many hundreds of thousands more succumbed to their horrific injuries later or slowly perished of their radiation-related sickness. Paul’s research is meticulous and he challenges the Allied perspective that the Japanese “deserved” to have these bombs dropped on them and that it is this that ended the war in the Pacific. His eyewitness accounts and his discussion of the Allied strategies of this war, will open a new insight into what lead up to these horrifying events.

Janette is an outstanding and internationally acclaimed Australian author who brings us a breathtaking and exquisitely lyrical collection of 9 short stories and one memoir piece. Her characters are compelling and enigmatic and include: a teen who hasn’t seen his father since the breakdown of his parents’ marriage; a child and grandmother sitting out a hurricane; the mute skipper of a whale-watching boat; a young woman deeply ashamed of what her father has become. All the stories have been woven sensitively with raw emotion, heartbreaking vulnerability and resolve.

Each character reveals their quest to maintain their balance in a turbulent and uncertain world as Janette gives us another beautiful piece of writing to enjoy.

by Cynthia Hand (rrpNew Release January 2012 $19.99) In this is the sequel to Unearthly, Clara is faced with the choice between love and duty. She is drawn further into the titanic struggle between the angels and the Black Wings and she will have to choose who to save when the lives of Christian and Tucker are in danger. She must face the reality that someone close to her will die, but with her future uncertain after a shocking revelation, she will be forced to make decisions that will decide the destiny of her world. This is a captivating story full of supernatural powers, forbidden romance and the choice between your destiny and following your heart.

Proudly independent ...a book is a place

• Over 10 years experience in the book trade • Life-long love affair with books • We specialise in finding that difficult to find title • We can help find that special book for yourself or to give as a gift

40a Thompson Ave Cowes

Phone. 03 5952 1444

Email. lois.turnthepage@bigpond.com coast 125

Summer Season the perfect time to shine DESIGN your desires

CREATE your dreams

Summer is your time to shine. What better way to do this than with a stunning piece of jewellery from Studio 41. We now carry the latest range of Jewellery from Tresor Paris which make for perfect gifts with bling!

If you’re after a truly unique piece of jewellery for yourself or a loved one, Elayne and her team of specialist jewellers can work with you to create stunning, original creations. Or if you have an old item that may be broken or unworn for years, Studio 41 specialise in restoring and rejuvenating old jewellery – ask for a complimentary appraisal.

REJUVENATE your memories

Awarded

Mornington Chamber of Commerce Long Term Trader Award

Finally, don’t let time slip away from you over the summer. Check out our range of Swiss Classique watches – we have the largest range on the Mornington Peninsula!

For further information about Studio41 and promotions visit: www.studio41.com.au 41 Main Street, Mornington, VIC 3931 P: +61 3 5977 0080 designs@studio41.com.au www.studio41.com.au coast 126

all that glitters promotional feature

words sally o’neil photo lucas piera

Renowned jeweller and businesswoman Elayne Vears recently received an award from the Mornington Chamber of Commerce for her 17 years of trade in the seaside town. With a career spanning 34 years, Elayne cites hard work, intuition and taking calculated risks as the keys to success.

Elayne grew up in Highett and lost her mother when she was six. “Two years later, Dad remarried and we became a real Brady Bunch. There were four children from each family – eight kids!” she recalls.

At high school, the girls were expected to study sewing and cooking.

But Elayne didn’t want to do that; she wanted to play with metal. The family split and Elayne moved back to a school in Highett where they let girls do metalwork, woodwork and jewellery. “After a few years, I decided to be a jeweller.”

She got an apprenticeship and rode her bike determinedly to work each day. “I was sharing a little place and got paid less than a checkout chick while I was an apprentice. Women were not welcome in the jewellery industry and we were reminded of that every day. The men thought we would just go off and have babies.”

Work for a jeweller in Richmond led her to Melbourne in the time of the establishment of the Meat Market Craft Centre and Elayne worked in a few craft venues. “This opened up my design sense and allowed me to be more creative. The styles were not so strict and regimented.”

A move to Dandenong led to work for two Armenian gentlemen.

“They couldn’t speak much English but had two lovely jewellery shops.

They needed me to speak to the clients and design the jewellery.” This provided another level of experience for Elayne.

In 1988, she joined an artists’ collaborative at ‘The Barn’ in nearby Merricks North. “I met a lot of amazing people there. Each of us had a little place in the large coolstore. I was there for six and a half years.

It was a really great venue, big enough to attract attention and small enough to be creative.”

As the era of ‘The Barn’ drew to a close, Elayne chose Mornington for her next venture. “It offered job security and I could keep my clients.”

She entered a joint venture and they rented a small shop. “It was all we could afford at the time.” After two and a half years, business was going well and needed to grow. They moved to 65 Main Street, and then a few years later, she was on her own and Studio 41 was born.

“Sometimes in business you have to gamble: you realise that you need to move and expand, and it’s important to take those opportunities when they arise. The move meant a doubling of rent, but as soon as we

opened the doors, the income also doubled. Business sense is not my real forte, but I believe if you create, growth will follow.”

Thirteen years on, the studio is going strong. Her team of five repairs, rejuvenates and creates jewellery on site as well as offering a wide range of jewellery, furniture and giftware for sale. “Jewellery is what I want to do. I love creating pieces for people. When you meet them and ask the right questions, new horizons are opened up for them. It just takes a bit of time, but the smile on their face when the piece is finished is so rewarding.”

Elayne is realistic about the current retailing scene, which she says is “going to get really tough”. She acknowledges the role of online shopping but also reminds people that buying locally has many benefits – including the employment of local people. “They are the students who will become doctors and travel agents and need a job to support their studies.”

Also shopping in-store enables people to see the items at close range, to inspect the quality and workmanship. “We can make and create in a few days because of the resources we have available. I have been in the field for 34 years, and my team is also very experienced. I know there are a lot of imports and other items available online. But the price is actually often less when you have things custom-made here. “You don’t really know what you are getting online. People often wonder why the prices differ, but they usually reflect the quality of the materials and workmanship. Australia has the best pearls and diamonds, and they are ethically sourced.”

But Elayne and her team are confident that they will keep creating.

“We craft each piece by hand – and that same piece can’t be found anywhere else.” In her retail lines, she plans to keep a steady hand and just keep doing what they do well. That includes sourcing locally-made items to support artists in the area.

After more than 30 years, Elayne’s business advice is simple: “Go for your dream. Don’t settle for anything less. But don’t jump too high. I’ve had to build everything from nothing – nothing has been handed to me on a platter.”

Studio 41 Main St, Mornington

Call 5977 0080

www.studio41.com.au

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2011 Mayoral Charity Ball

C’est tres bon!

The success of this year’s French provincial Mayoral Charity Ball brings the total amount raised for the Bass Coast Community Foundation in the past eight years to over $115,000.

promotional feature “An overwhelming 24 businesses sponsored the ball, which is a record in the eight year history. I am thrilled that so much has been raised to help projects in our community and that would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors,” said Mayor, Cr Veronica Dowman.

“In particular, our thanks goes to our Platinum and Gold sponsors. Tabro Meat Pty Ltd have been gold sponsors of the ball for seven years, they supply produce free of charge and Lisa Brorsen also does the floral arrangements with the assistance of volunteers.

“Retravision Wonthaggi has been a regular sponsor and over the years has generously supplied the major prize for the raffle,” continued Cr Dowman. “This year, they went one step further with their commitment to become a gold sponsor.

“Since arriving in Bass Coast three years ago, ongoing sponsorship of the Mayoral Ball has been a major part of Aquasure and Thiess Degremont’s commitment to the local community.

Platinum Sponsor

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promotional feature

“Gold sponsors McArthur are another long term supporter.

For the fifth year in a row, staff from the Melbourne based company attended the ball and stayed on to enjoy the whole weekend in Bass Coast.“ Without support and commitment of these companies, the ball could not be the success it is,” said Cr Dowman.

This year, three new gold sponsors supported the gala event.

Workplace Training Advisory Australia, Parklands Wonthaggi and Southcoast First National Real Estate.

Bass Coast Shire Council together with the Bass Coast Community Foundation would like to acknowledge and thank this year’s sponsors; Silver Sponsors: Coldon Homes. Bronze Sponsors: Wonthaggi Recyclers, Wonthaggi Fabric & Beads, Beveridge Williams and Phillip Island Nature Parks. Support Sponsors: Phillip Island RSL, TS Constructions, The Wonthaggi Club, Stockdale and Leggo Wonthaggi, Westpac Wonthaggi.

In-kind Sponsors: AFI Branding Solutions, COAST Magazine, Phillip Island Printers and DAS Constructions.

Gold Sponsors

Artisan and seller of Traditional & Contemporary Jewellery

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

KOONWARRA STUDIO & GALLERY 11 Swan Road, Koonwarra Village | Tel. 0428 685 282

Leongatha Art and Craft Gallery

Quality local Art & Craft

‘Liberated Books’ Artist’s book competition September 2012, Celebrating 40yrs of Leongatha Arts and Crafts Society, prizes to $1750.

Information and entry forms lacs@live.com.au or our website leongathagallery.org.au Changing Exhibitions Cnr Michael Place and Mc Cartin St Leongatha - Opposite the Post Office & next door to the CAB & Visitor info centre.

Closed; Sunday, Tuesday. Open; Sat 10am-2pm. Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-4pm or when the sign is out.

Gallery; 5662 5370. Contact; 5662 2029 email. lacs@live.com.au www. visitpromcountry.com.au

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’ whatsnew this summer

how to find finding the grain

Finding The Grain has moved to a new factory at 7/28 The Concourse, Cowes.

The huge showroom is stocked with new furniture, chairs, tables and more.

Stop in and talk to the team about a new piece for your home.

all in the family for IMOTO Motorcyclists will tell you that their passion for their bike, be it dirt, road or race, makes them part of a dedicated community. We caught up with Haydn Jones from iMoto and got the low-down on family and the business of bikes.

Natural Pet Solutions Some pets suffer with the same allergies as humans. Itchy skin is the most common symptom along with itchy eyes, sneezing and sometime hives (small raised lumps that itch like mad). Natural Animal Solutions has created a range of products to fix rather than mask the symptoms of allergies in pets.

Now available at UpBeet Health and Wholefoods, 125 Graham St, Wonthaggi.

What is the best thing about your work?

In July, Kate and I became parents and we are all at the shop most days so we get to spend quality time together, even when I’m putting in long hours. We have also made awesome friendships with many of our customers because we share the same passion for our bikes.

Discover Your Hidden Potential Need a change of life? Then Your Hidden Potential Life Coaching may assist you by empowering you to change your life, to reach your potential and to create the life you want, through creating a supportive environment for positive, goal oriented change and growth.

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Haydn, what led you to open up shop in San Remo?

After 15 years in the motorcycle trade, and having met my partner Kate, it was time to start something of our own. I’d been coming to the island for years, club racing and coaching with the Superbike School and fell in love with the place.

Hillies is King!

Hillies Meats in San Remo recently won the State title of Sausage King for their poultry snags. Call in and say hi to Brad and Jill and check out their range of gourmet goodies, meats and seafood.

Open 7 days. 119 Marine Pde, San Remo. Call 5678 5489.

We are definitely settled into island life and along with our mechanic Clive and the shop dog Tonka, it’s fair to say that we’ve become an iMoto family.

For more information, visit them at Keam Cres, San Remo or www.imoto.com.au

South Gippsland Family Medicine

Skin checkup Early detection of melanomas is an step towards a reduction in

SERVICES: Early detection of melanomas is a step towards a reduction in mortality. Computer-aided mortality.

Computer-aided of to digital images obtained by analysis of digital images obtained by dermoscopy has beenanalysis reported be an accurate, x Full body dermoscopy photos. practical and time saving as a tool for the evaluation of moles. dermoscopy has been reported to be an accurate, practical x Surveillance of moles.

and time saving as a tool for the evaluation of moles

How it works? x Patient receives a personalized folder and CD with the images. x Follow up by a GP.

x

x

South Gippsland Family Rural Award Recipient

You will be given a gown to change into, and wear during the

Respected local doctor, Dr Maurice Haddad from South Gippsland Family Medicine, was honoured for his Outstanding Contribution to Rural Communities last Friday entire procedure 11th November. At a function attended by the Premier and the state Minister Health, Dr Haddad receivedwill the award the Ruralof Workforce AforRegistered Nurse takefrom photos your Agency. entireIt body, acknowledged his impact on the health of Wonthaggi and the Bass Coast region.

and

will take more detailed photos of any suspicious areas.

x

x

Dr Haddad came to South Gippsland Family Medicine in January 2009, after working in a variety of Melbourne hospitals since arrived inand Australia 5 years Your images, will be saved on a he secure encrypted earlier. He is the only doctor in the Bass Coast Region treating drug and alcohol patients via a Methadone Program. Currently he is looking after more than 120 drive. such patients.

hard

You will later a come in for a consult with your doctor. Your He has been instrumental in setting up the first local skin cancer clinic and whole body scan.will Suspicious moles are photographed to allow the patient andand doctorgive doctor discuss recommendations with you to follow their progress. If any spots need to be removed, Dr Haddad has been trained to undertake these the procedures. also skin been passing his knowledge folder containing DVD He ofhas your checkup images on to the next generation of doctors, as he is involved in training both medical students and GP registrars.

Spokesperson for South Gippsland Family Medicine, Dr Howard McCormick reinforced the important work Dr Haddad was undertaking in the community. On behalf of all the doctors and staff he congratulated him on the prestigious award.

In accepting the award, Dr Haddad insisted that his wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name be included with

on the award. said 5672 that the 4111 only way he could continue his5672 work in the 5/1 Billson St, Wonthaggi, Victoriahis 3995 Tel: He (03) Fax: (03) 4011 country was with the support of his wife and family.

Email: skincheckup@bigpond.com.au

Visit the website: www.skincheckup.com.au

South Gippsland Family Medicine 4-6/1 Billson Street, Wonthaggi, Victoria 3995 Tel: (03) 5672 4111 Fax: (03) 5672 4011 Email: skincheckup@bigpond.com

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you a

Two great stores at one location!

furniture and decor

Fashion for real women of all shapes & sizes.

Specialising in PLUS SIZE Resort Wear and All Seasons stylish and affordable womens fashion. Online shopping and measurement service available

Quality Furniture & Decor for Indoor & Alfresco Living.

Unique Individual Pieces, Settings, Houselots & Commercial to order.

Phone: 5952 2210 Open 10am - 4pm or by appointment Visit our website or online shop at www.pantailiving.com.au

Phone: 0422 395 168 E-mail: evecreations1@hotmail.com

www.evecreations.com.au

Showrooms: 113B Thompson Ave Cowes

Seedlings • Herbs • Plants • Bird Baths • Stone + Timber pots • Outdoor • Driftwood Furniture • Giftware

151 B Thompson Ave Cowes coast 132

p. 5952 2726

e. rsgrow@bigpond.com

promotional feature words & photos Bernard Hanily

moonya . . . people with plenty of ability By now, most people living or holidaying in coastal communities surrounding Phillip Island through to Venus Bay and beyond have heard of the growing not-for-profit – Moonya Community Services. The organisation has provided services to the community for people with a disability for generations.

Over five decades on from their humble beginnings in 1957 in a rented hall with six customers, Moonya Community Services caters to more than 120 people with a disability, employs over 60 staff (around half have a disability), provides four support services, has two Australian Disability Enterprises (a full commercial printing business and a commercial gardening business), and provides the community with a Disability Employment Service (or job placements).

While Moonya’s mission remains simple – to fulfil the aspirations for life of people with a disability – there have been tireless community minded people working quietly behind the scenes of this great organisation to ensure the lives of people with disabilities living in our community are better off.

Past President of the Board, Joe Basten.

Recently Joe was honoured at a testimonial dinner in celebration of his remarkable distinguished volunteer service history and for his personal contribution to the lives of people with a disability.

Moonya is not allowing Joe to leave all together; as the immediate Past President Joe will continue to be an active Board Member and engaged in furthering Moonya’s work.

Usually these ‘background people’ do their work with little fuss, they allow others to bask in the limelight while they get (and perhaps want) little acknowledgement for their efforts – Joe Basten is one of these people.

One campaign started during Joe’s time as President of Moonya – the ‘Friends of Moonya’ campaign is seeking to attract 2000 members to the organisation to help improve the lives of people living with a disability.

In his twentieth year on the Board of Management, and after twelve years of dedication and hard work volunteering his time as President of the Board, Joe Basten has decided to pass on the mantle of the Presidency of Moonya Community Services.

To join as a member, volunteer, to donate (as a charity Moonya is a tax deductible gift recipient) you can find out more on Moonya’s new look website: www.moonya.org.au which was recently launched by staff at Moonya Printworkz.

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aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

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Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith and Warren Reed

Rainbows at Cowes

Bazaar & Gallery

Antiques & Collectables, Vintage & Recylced Fashion Hand Crafted Goods from around the World Furniture & Books & Great Coffee

223 Settlement Road Cowes (next to the Sunday market)

Mon, Thurs, Fri 11 – 4 Sat - Sun 10 – 5 School Holidays 7 days

Call: 0447 609 169 Email: kiln@waterfront.net.au

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shaping our water future Westernport Water is busily engaging with its customers and listening to how it can improve its products and services. There are a number of ways through which the community can become involved and provide valuable feedback.

Water Plan 3 have your say!

Westernport Water is currently developing Water Plan 3 and is seeking feedback from the community. Water Plan 3 documents all the major projects and developments planned, sets the pricing path for the 2013-2018 period and is designed to meet the region’s rapidly growing water needs. This is a great opportunity for the community to help shape future planning for water and wastewater services.

Westernport Water encourages anyone who would like to contribute to register their interest for upcoming consultation sessions email westport@westernportwater.com.au or by contacting our Customer Service team on 1300 720 711.

promotional feature

customer consultative panel The Customer Consultative Panel (CCP) represents our customers’ interests on a wide range of topics.

The Panel works with Westernport Water in reviewing performance and making recommendations for the benefit of customers and the community.

Membership of the CCP is voluntary, with the Panel comprising of representatives from the wider community. Members come from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, helping provide a broad view of customers’ needs. We are always accepting expressions of interest for membership and welcome applications from people in the community who are ready to assist.

The CCP provides valuable feedback in a number of ways: • offering customer views and how they should be reflected in Westernport Water’s short and long term business strategy.

• providing input and opinion on tariff structuring, price levels, customer service, community consultation and other areas.

• providing input into decisions for capital works and major projects, as well as exploring how they benefit the community.

The community is encouraged to provide any questions or feedback about water issues for CCP discussion. Please submit any queries to Geoff Russell at grussell@westernportwater.com.au or by calling 5956 4140.

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Initiatives that the CCP has consulted on;

Since its formation, the CCP has provided input to many major projects and corporate initiatives, advocating courses of action that involve minimum disruption to the local community and debating the best possible outcome for customers. Recently, the CCP has been involved in the following areas and projects: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Under Channel pipeline Candowie Supply Project Phillip Island Recycled Water Scheme New corporate logo Chloramination treatment upgrade Water Plan 3 consultation Drought restriction guidelines Corporate Plan Hydration Station Community drinking stations Communications feedback

community projects Westernport Water, in conjunction with San Remo Foreshore Committee and Bass Coast Shire Council, has provided the community with a convenient way to fill up their water bottles by launching three custom drinking stations across San Remo and Cowes.

The drinking stations have a fountain for use as well as refill points that allow you to easily top up your water bottles free of charge. Two stations feature a dog bowl built into the base of the fountain, giving pet owners the ability to give their thirsty canine companions a drink while out walking.

One drinking station has been installed at Erehwon Point in Cowes while the other two are located in the San Remo Lions Park and San Remo Foreshore area.

Water connection points have also been installed at the Jetty Precinct in Cowes and Woolamai Surf Life Saving Club for convenient connection with the Hydration Station to provide water at local events.

see how water works in the westernport region!

Westernport Water is offering guided tours of its water facilities at Candowie Reservoir to the local community. Tours are available to the general public and will showcase the water treatment process in action, providing a unique perspective for customers.

To register your interest, please contact Geoff Russell from Westernport Water on 1300 720 711.

WESTERNPORT WATER

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www.westernportwater.com.au coast 137

centennial centre words eleanor mckay photos warren reed

Wonthaggi celebrates the opening of their new Centennial Centre that acts as a gateway to Wonthaggi and South Gippsland, and provides locals and visitors with all the information they require.

Walking into the new Wonthaggi Centennial Centre is like stepping back in time. The dark stained timber roof evokes the feeling of entering a coal mine, a nod to Wonthaggi’s celebrated mining heritage. Take a few more steps though and you arrive in a fantastic wide open space filled with light. Just like Wonthaggi itself, the building is a fascinating mesh of proud history and new endeavours.

The heart of the new building is the Visitor Information Centre, which was previously located in a small office near the Wonthaggi Library. Meeting Debbie Adamson, the Visitor Services Officer for the centre, takes the mining connection one step further. Before moving to Wonthaggi in 2009, Debbie spent nine years working at a mine site in Port Hedland, WA. This new role combines her administration skills and love of interacting with people. “I love that we are here to help people enjoy visiting our area,” enthuses Debbie.

“Working here has helped me find out things about our area that I never knew. The amount of things that you can see and do within our region is just amazing.”

Visitors to the Centennial Centre can find out about Wonthaggi’s history through the interpretive wall panels showing the important role Wonthaggi has played in providing resources for Victoria, including the State Coal Mine, wind turbines and the Desalination Plant.

The environmental features of the new building are also on display, with a real time energy generation meter, showing how much the solar (photo voltaic) panels are putting back into the electricity grid.

The new site on the Bass Highway is ideally placed for travellers

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and includes a picnic area and ample off-street parking. When you venture inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about attractions and accommodation in Wonthaggi and right across Bass Coast. “We want everyone to stop by and see the new centre and talk to us,” invites Debbie. “There is a meeting room that local community and business groups can book and I am sure that even our locals will be amazed at what they can find out about where they live. The staff and volunteers at all our centres are so knowledgeable and all have their favourite spots and recommendations. We are lucky to have people who want share their passion for the area.”

And share their passion they do! Across the four Visitor Information Centres – Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Phillip Island (Newhaven and Cowes) – the team serviced more than 256,000 visitors last year.

That’s not including the 80,000+ who rang or searched the website for information.

The ticket sales, accommodation booking and merchandise sales from the four centres contributed $2.8 million to the local tourism economy last year. With annual visitor numbers steadily rising (last year it was estimated 4.3 million people visited Bass Coast), things can only get bigger for our Visitor Information Centres.

For more information log on to www.visitbasscoast.com or call the Visitor Information Centres on: Inverloch 1300 762 433 Wonthaggi 1300 854 334 Phillip Island (Newhaven & Cowes) 1300 366 422

’ whatsnew this summer

pannys chocolate factory

cowes doctors has moved!

The experienced, friendly and professional team at Cowes Doctors has a new clinic in Cowes which will allow the practice to keep its service up to the high standards an evergrowing patient list has come to expect. Dr Rawa Fadheel has also joined the team.

Find them at 12 Warley Ave. Call 5952 5877cowesdoctors.com.au

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is pleased to announce their new attraction! Pannys Family Window is an animatronic celebration of chocolate making that follows Panny and his family for a day.This enchanting and humorous display uses skillfully crafted 3D characters to take visitors on a magical journey to discover the tongue-in-cheek secrets of Pannys chocolate.

wooli races

goldsmith’s double act

Summer is the time for the gorgeous Woolamai Picnic Races. Lunch under the trees in a relaxed country setting and have a flutter on the horses.

This year, races are being sponsored by Parklands Estate in Wonthaggi. woolamai.countryracing.com.au www.parklandsestate.com.au

happy new year @ RACV

Bronwyn Pratt has been joined by qualified jeweller Steven Nicolaou. “We make a great double act in the gallery,” says Bronwyn.

“No request is too hard - what one cannot do, the other can!” See them in action at the gallery in Bridgeview Arcade, Marine Parade, San Remo.

Bring in the New Year at RACV Celebrate the New Year at Inverloch Resort with a magnificent five-course table d’hôte dinner. The feast includes canapés on arrival and a delectable dessert buffet. All house wine, beer and soft drinks are included. With live entertainment throughout the evening, and hats, streamers and whistles thrown in to ensure guests really get into the party mood, it promises to be a sensational way to ring out the old and bring in the new. Fireworks will be on the big screen at 9pm and midnight.

Bookings essential! Call 5674 0000.

Ready Set Grow Ready Set Grow has just received some amazing new driftwood furniture and homewares check them out at their store and nursery in Cowes.

151 Thompson Ave Cowes Call 5952 2726

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• Registered Master Builders • New Homes & Extensions • Townhouse/Unit Developments • Design & Drafting Services

Please call to discuss your building requirments

p. 03 5678 5777

f. 03 5678 5515

Open 7 days, for expert advice

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Weekends by appointment Inquiry office 75-77 phillip island tourist road, san remo 3925

Visit us at www.homedesignandconstruction.com.au coast 140

guide Building by the coast? It’s a dream come true!

When building or renovating, there are many things to consider. Trades to organise, choosing the right builder, materials and fittings. Coast magazine has done the research required for you to create your perfect ‘nest’ by the coast. Read on for more . . .

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Designs to suit waterfront living

The new Alto 30 by Metricon sliding door

BEDROOM 2 3260 x 3420

LEISURE 4960 x 4570

W.C.

LAUNDRY

BATHROOM

sliding door

linen

KITCHEN

robe

robe

W.I.R.

DINING

LIVING

2850 X 4620

4080 x 5140

pantry

PWDR linen

ENSUITE

robe

BEDROOM 3 3300 x 3200

W.C.

DOUBLE GARAGE

3

robe

5530 x 6010

MASTER SUITE 4120 x 4740

3120 x 3630

W.I.R.

robe

ENTRY STUDY

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PORTICO

Visit a display centre in your chosen dream location

TRARALGON DISPLAY CENTRE Open weekdays 1–5pm Jane Grieco Weekends 12–5pm Ph: 0403 003 292 Andrew Radford Hammersmith Circuit VicRoads 343 L5 Ph: 0421 228 093 Ph: 5176 4063

1300 METRICON metricon.com.au

BAIRNSDALE DISPLAY CENTRE Open Mon - Fri 1pm-5pm Sat - Sun 12pm-5pm Flinns Road, Bairnsdale VicRoads 689 M5 Ph: 5152 1332

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Graham Bugbird Ph: 0415 132 446

Images are for illustrative purposes and may include upgrade items above standard specification. R2195

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INVERLOCH NEW HOME SALES OFFICE Open Mon–Tue 10–3pm Thur-Fri 10–3pm Saturday by appointment 17A A’Beckett St, Inverloch Ph: (03) 5674 6451 Stacey Wilcox Ph: 0423 428 704 WARRAGUL NEW HOME SALES OFFICE Open Mon–Fri 12-5pm 54 Queen St, Warragul Ph: 5623 3059 Angela Williams Ph: 0414 807 462

Builders, Designers + Architects

Bass Coast Builders

Beach House Constructions

Custom building gives you the freedom to make decisions during the building process without any additional costs. This local team takes pride in its skills, producing quality, costeffective houses. Let them take the hassles out of building your home.

Call Andrew Cochrane 0418 749 237 www.basscoastbuilders.com.au

This established company designs, builds and decorates sustainable homes primarily in Gippsland, the Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne. They focus on sustainable building and energy efficiency, and the multiple industry awards they have won are a testament to their high standards. Greensmart accredited.

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

Beaumont Concepts

Bluecoast Builders

Darren Brown Design

Multi award-winning building designer Beaumont Concepts delivers a unique look and creates functional designs for easy living.

In every project, the company endeavours to find and apply innovative building solutions and excellent home design that enhances the clients’ investment. Beaumont Concepts prides itself on providing superior design and drafting services for residential and commercial projects and has the experience and knowledge to create designs to suit all geographic areas and architectural styles.

Call 5672 5196 www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

Based on the Mornington Peninsula, Bluecoast specialises in quality construction for the domestic market. Don’t be fooled by the name - Bluecoast Builders is equally comfortable with urban, suburban or coastal builds. There is no single flavour to Bluecoast builds. Each house is unique, whether it’s a new home, renovation or extension.

Call Graeme Anderson 0418 388 159 www.bluecoastbuilders.com.au

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

Call 5672 1144 or 0418 379 30 www.dbdesign.com.au

Archiblox

Archiblox homes are designed for you, your lifestyle and the environment that you live in.

A unique collaboration between an architect and builder, Archiblox delivers modular and bespoke homes that are not only stunning but affordable and sustainable.

Call 0410 480 255 www.archiblox.com.au

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Your building partner on the Island and Bass Coast

experience the difference

yes we build on sloping blocks yes we build units and townhouses yes we can build to your plans

yes we tailor your home to suit your needs yes we build on stumps or concrete slabs yes we specialise in knockdown rebuild projects

Visit our display home at 184 Thompson Ave Cowes. Open Fri, Sat & Sun 1-4pm Enquiries call Colin Dartnell: 0416 152 075 House & Land Packages Available

www.newdimensionhomes.com.au coast 144

(03) 8773 0777

Langford Jones Homes

Imagine... beachside, tree side, countryside Imagine living life tree side, countryside or beachside. Well it’s all within reach with Metricon, building award winning homes throughout regional Victoria.

So take a drive and discover the wonderful homes on offer. Whatever your dream, Metricon can make it a reality.

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Builders, Designers + Architects

Soho

Home Design & Construction

Langford Jones Homes

Metricon Homes Why Metricon is Victoria’s leading home builder

This family owned and run company offers This company has been building quality a team of skilled and creative designers affordable homes in predominantly coastal and builders who will take your new home, areas across Phillip Island, the Bass Coast extension or project from concept to reality. and South Gippsland for over 40 years. The Their commitment to high standards and company offers flexibility in design with Visit Langford Jones Homes Display Centres: Phillip Island and Wonthaggi. NEW DISPLAY: Leongatha continual improvement assures that they a large variety of plans, and builds homes can provide9579 the most designs consisting of either lightweight construction Melbourne: 2277 innovative Email: sales@ljhomes.com.au and outstanding finish to your new project. or brick veneer. www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au Servicing all areas, the team includes Call 9579 2277 architectural draftspeople, master builders, www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au skilled tradespeople, interior designers and professional consultants.

Call 5678 5777 www.homedesignandconstruction.com.au

Over the past 35 years, Metricon has grown to Visit a display centre in your chosenone of the largest homebuilders in become dream location Australia.

The team is committed to remaining 1300 METRICON metricon.com.au a leader in everything they do - from customer service to their outstanding new home designs, house plans and display home network. When you build your new home with Metricon, you are building with the best.

Call 5674 6451 www.metricon.com.au

New Dimension Homes

Nott Architecture

SJD Homes

Experience the New Dimension difference.

The team understands that finding the right builder who can provide quality construction and excellent customer service is a high priority. Their goal is to create a pictureperfect home for you to enjoy. They provide personalised service, and can customise your home, building on sloping blocks, stumps and slabs. Say YES to New Dimension Homes and experience the difference.

Call 8773 0777 www.newdimension.com.au

An award-winning architectural practice specialising in the design of environmentallysustainable new houses and extensions, Nott Architecture offers architectural services in Bass Coast and South Gippsland. Principal architect Terence Nott has over thirty years’ experience in a wide range of projects statewide. Consultations held locally in Bass Coast, South Gippsland or in Central Melbourne.

Call 9489 8863 www.nottarchitecture.com.au

SJD leads the way in stylish eco-friendly homes, personalised service & competitive pricing. As a registered HIA Greensmart Builder, SJD Homes’ Eco Collection can improve the energy rating of your home to 7 Stars & beyond with innovative design & add-on energy-saving products such as solar power & double glazing. Choose from their floorplan range or customise to suit your lifestyle & block.

Call 5940 4204 www.sjdhomes.com.au

TREE SIDE

BEACHSIDE

COUNTRYSIDE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SALES OFFICES

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

Tom Wilson Architect Tom Wilson is an award-winning architect with over 39 years’ experience. All facets of design, documentation and contract administration are part of the very personal service that Tom provides for his clients. Tom offers advice on siting, orientation, materials, budget, and builders, whilst providing up-to-date solutions for individual situations. A practical, hands-on professional, Tom specialises in designs that are simple, elegant and economical.

Call 0411 464 838 www.hipages.com.au/professional/52656

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Multi Award Winning Building Designer of Contemporary Sustainable Homes.

www.beaumontconcepts.com.au 53 Graham St. Wonthaggi - Tel. (03) 5672 5196 coast 146

| Level 2, 75 Chapel St. Cowes - Tel. (03) 5952 6868

Grove of Grandeur

promotional feature words sally o’neill photos warren reed

Doug and Sharon Merritt are enjoying life in their dream home overlooking their productive olive grove in Meeniyan’s hinterland.

Regular holidays to Inverloch led the couple to discover South Gippsland, and purchasing a picturesque 20 acres behind Meeniyan five years ago put them one step closer to their retirement dream.

Within a year they had planted several European varieties of olives in their 400-tree olive grove, and in 2011 they reaped their first commercial harvest and produced their own olive oil. Called ‘Stone’s Throw’, the oil is already for sale in Carlton. Doug and Sharon are committed to producing single estate artisan oil and hope to increase production as their olive trees mature.

The next step was to repeat the success of the olive grove with the building of their home. They worked closely with the team at Beaumont Concepts to create a design that engaged the environmental qualities of the site and captured views from every room. Carefully-considered design elements addressed issues such as building mass, double glazing, shading and cross-flow ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling. An energy-efficient hot water system, independent water supply and maximum-rated fixtures and fittings further reduced the home’s carbon footprint.

The façade avoids dominance of the landscape, instead encouraging a variety of visual and sensual experiences as it connects with the earth. The stained timber cladding and charcoal Alutile reflect the colours of the surrounding eucalypts and olive grove.

The aim of the design was to link the external and internal environments. The internal material palette is made up of reclaimed timber, concrete, stainless steel and a touch of olive green in the kitchen ensures a seamless connection of internal and external areas.

The oversized entry door created from recycled timber provides the perfect introduction to the house, and the Mark Tuckey barbed-wire pendant light hovers overhead creating a fractured reflection of light on the elevated ceiling.

A commercial-grade kitchen concealed within the pantry provides an ideal area for processing the couple’s olive oil. Directly connected is the cellar which has been intentionally located in the climate neutral area of the home. The separation of the bedrooms from the main living areas provides privacy and encourages zoning to reduce energy usage. A corner butt window in the study captures the vibrant green of the surrounding eucalypts to inject a sense of peace and harmony into the workspace.

“I adopted a less-is-more philosophy in designing this Meeniyan house,” says Ashley Beaumont. “The house represents a perfect harmony between design, inhabitant and environment.”

Beaumont Concepts 53 Graham St Wonthaggi Ph: 03 56725196 Level 2, 75 Chapel St. Cowes Ph: 59526868 www.beaumontconcepts.com.au

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Leading the way in stylish, innovative Eco friendly homes, personalised service & competitive pricing!

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Our Eco Upgrade options can improve the energy rating of your home from 7 Stars & beyond with a combination of innovative design, add-on energy saving products such as solar power & double glazing, and energy efficient building products. The choice is yours as to how eco friendly you would like your home to be.

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Casiana Grove Display Centre Cranbourne

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Cardinia Rd

Tarago – Loxton – Caversham Phone: (03) 5940 4204 Emerald Court, Devonia Park, Pakenham.

Mel Ref. 215 D8 Open: Saturday to Wednesday 12-5pm

Emerald Ct

Loxton Way

Mob: 0418 596 324 Crepe Ave, Casiana Grove, Cranbourne.

Everl Mel Ref. 133 B7 astin g Blv d Open: Saturday to Wednesday 12-5pm

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Henry Rd

Hayman – Everly – Albany

Devonia Park Display Centre Pakenham

Village Way

Caversham Dr

On your way home from the beach, drop in to visit our display homes in Pakenham and Cranbourne.

Talk to us about how we can help build your next home or holiday house in South East Victoria.

We can customise plans to your lifestyle and block or choose from hundreds of floorplans we have on offer.

Call 1300 SJD HOMES (1300 753 466) coast 148

www.sjdhomes.com.au

Climate + Energy Solutions

Bass Coast Refrigeration and Electrical

Coastal Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

Colin and Caroline Donohue have been providing refrigeration and electrical services in the area for the past 40 years. They pride themselves on professional service with a respectful attitude. They sell, service and offer warranty repairs for Daikin air conditioners, which recently won a prestigious Canstar award.

Call 5672 2426 1/13 Inverloch Rd, Wonthaggi

Deb and Rick North are here to meet all your air conditioning requirements in sales, installation and service. Rick is a fully qualified and accredited refrigeration and air conditioning technician servicing Phillip Island/San Remo and surrounding areas. Call or drop in for your no-obligation free quote.

Call 5678 5190 Shop 2, 65A Back Beach Rd, San Remo.

New World Solar Solutions

Island Energy

New World Solar Solutions specialises in off-the-grid solar power systems. They can also maintain and repair your systems and are clean energy accredited.

Call 0407 524 244

This new family business has been built up over two generations. Their combined 40 years of experience in the industry is a huge advantage when it comes to getting great advice when powering with solar, lighting with LEDs or heating and cooling your new home or renovation. Visit their new factory in San Remo.

Call 0439 323 043 www. islandenergy.com.au

Sunplus Solar Going solar doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean having to change your lifestyle. Sunplus Solar is a local business that offers premium equipment, qualified tradesmen and a focus on providing customer satifaction and not just aiming for the lowest price.

Call 1300 007 652 www.sunplussolar.com.au

Sunscape Electrical This locally-owned and operated electrical contracting business located in Lang Lang specialises in energy efficiency and solar power installations. They are fully qualified to assess, design and install a solar system to meet your energy needs.

Call 1300 733 332 www.sunscapeelectrical.com.au

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promotional feature

words supplied db design photos lucas piera & warren reed

the db design difference The focus of db design is to provide each client with choice and flexibility throughout every stage of their building project.

With a strong network of designers, consultants and local builders, db design aims to remove confusion throughout the building design and documentation process - making home building a seamless process from start to end.

From initial meetings and concept drawings, dealing with relevant authorities and obtaining permits, final detailed drawings and documentation, through to selecting a builder and even project management services, they provide clarity and direction that exceeds all expectations.

For clients who have a picture in their minds of what their perfect home could be, or simply have a wish list of their lifestyle requirements, they develop a client brief from an initial meeting and site visit, then sit down with a blank piece of paper and start creating a unique custom home design.

The team has also developed a boutique range of innovative designs that cater for any stage of life. From compact and practical living spaces through to expansive family homes, they have house plans and façade options that will suit or can be altered to suit any chosen home site and your living

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requirements. These designs may also be used as a starting point to base a custom home design.

You remain in full control of the design, style and layout of your project, whilst working closely with a db design qualified building designer, as well as a unique level of assistance in selecting the right builder.

When every idea has been captured and you are satisfied with the design of your home, the plans and specifications will be developed, ready for construction. From here they will guide you through the selection process to find the right builder for your project. Going through a tender process to build your home (on a strict ‘like for like’ basis) enables accurate comparisons to be made.

In such a competitive environment, it ensures value for money.

The purpose of this transparent process is to clearly indicate what is and isn’t included in your home (and the associated costs).

This gives you the unique ability to confidently choose the best building partner for your project who is committed to providing a quality home that is tailored to your lifestyle and budget.

At this point your chosen builder takes over the project to see it through to its conclusion. However, db design doesn’t necessarily step back from the project. If required, they can provide additional services throughout the construction period to ensure the finished product remains true to its design intent.

From first homes, large custom-designed homes through to multi dwelling and commercial developments, the multi award-winning team at db design is highly motivated and approachable. With a focus on providing absolute clarity, direction and choice, they will push the boundaries of good design in the pursuit of exceeding their clients’ expectations.

db design also has off the plan designs to suit all tastes and budgets

Complete design & documentation service for all residential & commercial building projects • • • • • • • • • •

Building Design Architectural Drafting Project Management Town Planning Energy Ratings Bushfire Assessments Soil Tests Structural Design Land Surveying Interior Design

Darren Brown Design Pty Ltd. t/as dbdesign

Office & Display Home:

47 Graham Street, Wonthaggi, 3995, Victoria

Phone: 03 5672 1144

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Langford Jones Homes

Visit Langford Jones Homes Display Centres: Phillip Island and Wonthaggi. NEW DISPLAY: Leongatha Melbourne: 9579 2277

Email: sales@ljhomes.com.au

www.langfordjoneshomes.com.au coast 152

Interiors

Finding The Grain

Invisage Interiors

Metrix New Kitchens

The team at Finding the Grain is passionate about creating beautiful, handcrafted furniture and timber solutions for your home using unique, reclaimed timbers. Environmentallyaware clients can enjoy lasting timber furniture without the elevated price tag. Visit their new Cowes showroom.

Mark Davis 0418 355 148 Nick Kershaw 0421 867 476 Factory 7/28 The Concourse Cowes www.findingthegrain.com.au

Operating since 2003, Invisage Interiors and Quality Window Furnishings specialises in the supply and installation of internal and external window coverings, and selection and specification of colours and finishes for residential and commercial projects. The experienced and qualified team provides clients with utmost professionalism, and offers full service including free advice, measures and competitive quotations for all window coverings, including external awnings.

Call 5674 6247 www.invisageinverloch.com

This family-owned business has been established for 22 years and, with over 32 years of experience, the team designs and liaises personally with clients to provide beautiful new cabinetry or facelifts to existing rooms or pieces . Their new venture uses recycled engineered granite processed from quarry off-cuts. It is a locally-produced, visually beautiful and practical material with many applications.

Call Peter 0428 142 020 www.metrixkitchens.com See ad on p. xx

Paint Place Phillip Island & Wonthaggi

South Coast Furnishings

Woodwork Solutions

With two great locations, this local team will provide all your contemporary interior solutions. The Cowes store has all your flooring and window furnishing needs covered, while the showroom in The Concourse showcases contemporary tastes and arrangements to spark design ideas with prices that are sure to please. Open seven days.

155 Thompson Ave, Cowes.

Call 5952 1488 ww.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

With over 30 years’ trade experience (cabinetmaking, joinery and stairmaking) we are able to offer a wide range of services.

If you require beautifully designed and crafted woodwork, please contact us. We will manufacture not only fitted interior furniture (kitchens etc) but furniture, staircases, doors and windows. Certified Designer with the Kitchen & Bathroom Designers Institute of Australia.

Call 0458520347 www.woodworksolutions.com.au

The guaranteed experts in paint products, advice and professional service. Stocking all major brands (Wattyl, Solagard, Taubmans, Haymes, Solver & Dulux) and a full range of painting accessories, they also offer advice on colour selection and hints for your next DIY project. Stop in for a chat with the friendly team.

215 Settlement Road, Cowes Call 5952 2522 21 Billson Street, Wonthaggi Call 5672 5522

Hot tips

Kerryn from Southcoast Furnishings gives the hot tips for your home decoration or renovation: Bamboo Floor coverings The durable, green, natural & beautiful choice. With a higher dent resistance than any common timber flooring available, Strand Woven Bamboo offers practicality, durability and a clear conscience.

Plantation shutters on feature windows give style and that ‘wow factor’. With their custom-made fittings and simple form, they will make the rest of your decorating easy. Choose from a range of white and timbers to match your façade or architraves.

Sheer curtains soften and add a dramatic edge to otherwise standard roller blinds.

A floor-length sheer half-open on a window can give privacy options and a sense of character to an otherwise sterile window fitting.

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living the dream

words sue webster photos supplied

An elegant, light-filled house directly facing the beach … a glistening backyard pool … sleepy visiting grandkids bunking down after a day in the surf… is this a dream you share?

For Ted and Lyn Martin it’s a reality: Cup Day holiday saw their six grandkids all bundled into custom-built triple-level bunks downstairs while the adults relaxed in the stylish surrounds upstairs.

The architect-designed house they built two years ago on the site of their former holiday home is really hitting its straps. Previously living in Leongatha, the couple are semi-retired from the business they built up selling fibreglass pools, and all three of their kids are now involved in expanding the business.

“The holiday house was built in the 1950s,” says Lyn. “It was a nice house, smallish but really pretty. But when we decided Inverloch was where we were going live, we realised that to redo the old house wasn’t economically viable. Plus there was the possibility of a sea view.”

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And what a view! To get a better idea of the vista, the couple hired a scissor-lift platform before they started building. Now a huge 4.5 by 3m picture window – the biggest that could be hoisted into place by a crane – looks across the beach. “I love it in the winter when the sea gets wild, or in summer, when people on the beach look up and wave at the grandkids.”

The main bedroom also offers an expansive view across the water, as does the natty study through a clever cutaway design. There are other ingenious touches throughout the house, most of them designed to maximise light and the views. Most spectacular is the glass-ceilinged hallway. “When it rains, it’s like a waterfall,” says Lyn. It links the main body of the house with a self-contained guest wing, as does the internal lift.

Lyn explains: “It’s important to plan ahead, and because of our age, we

promotional feature installed a lift for the coming years. We have a fireplace upstairs, so the wood comes up in the lift … but mostly it’s used to store things!”

The house is tastefully decorated with artworks and lots of family photos.

“We now have a third generation enjoying this piece of land,” says Lyn, hitherto a fan of ‘ye olde’-type houses.

She explains: “This house wasn’t a ‘me’ house. I thought I was going to have a place with verandahs and things. But we knew the architect; he’d renovated a traditional house for my son and daughter-in-law in Flemington. The house he drew up for us was nothing like we’d originally envisaged. We took the plans to the family and they said, ‘Go for it’.”

“We spent a lot of time with the architect planning the house over a long period: it was probably 12 months in the planning and then 18 months till completion.”

The builder – their nephew David Martin – moved into the ‘love shack’ next door and worked on the project continuously. It was a steep learning curve for the young craftsman, and Lyn believes a more established builder wouldn’t have had the adaptability needed to cope with the building’s individual quirks.

“It’s not different just for the sake of being different. It’s really lovely to live in: there’s a bit of timber, a lot of light and quite a few very interesting features. Everything is angled – even the cupboards aren’t built along ‘straight’ lines. The architect played with perspective a lot. It took the builders and carpenters to a new level.”

Another example of the architect’s innovative style is the external aluminium cladding. “It hadn’t been used in a domestic setting on the Bass Coast before,” says David. Because of the angles, the bonding technique was difficult. David had to learn how it was done and now incorporates that technique in the other seaside buildings he constructs through an offshoot company Archiblox. (See breakout).

The overall ultra-chic look of the house also acts as a stylish counterpoint to some more homely elements – a huge antique billiards table in the downstairs games room, space out the back for a chook run and vegie garden and, upstairs in the kitchen, a fire-engine red Aga stove, perfectly positioned to allow Lyn to warm herself while nursing a morning cuppa looking across the water. “I bought it with money I inherited from my mother. She would be turning in her grave: she had a slow-combustion stove that she came to thoroughly detest!”

From the builder: “This house has been a real challenge, and it’s quite rewarding,” says builder David Martin. “It’s not stock- standard. It forced me to think more, to work out processes and ways of handling a lot of the interesting detail.”

The legacy of this house has been the collaboration with the architect Bill McCorkell. David says: “We worked really well together, and from that came the idea of building contemporary homes that can be customised to the client’s site, environment and lifestyle with a cost effective solution.

Building a contemporary, very stylish home usually entails a large budget, but with the architect’s design sense and my expertise in construction – and our shared sense of passivesolar design – we produced other more cost-efficient plans working on a modular system.”

The pair combines energy-efficiency with the needs of each block and every client. “Our modular design means we can easily take into account the block, the environment, flora and fauna and neighbouring properties,” he says. “And living in a passive solar house makes a huge difference.”

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Bass Coast Builders

REG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DBU 23403

phone 5674 9251 fax 5674 9324 mobile 0418 749 237 email. aandvcochrane@bigpond.com

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new display home

now open at 201 thompson avenue phillip island

sustainable living from a multi award winning builder

visit this outstanding quality home built for the environmentally aware come and see what is possible in comfortable living and sustainable design & construction now building in melbourne and mornington peninsula

beach house constructions contact mark plant 0418 595 410

GreenSmart accredited

pty ltd

www.beachhouseconstuctions.com.au coast 157

Creating masterpieces from recycled native hardwoods Mark: 0418 355 148 Nick: 0421 867 476 www.findingthegrain.com.au factory@findingthegrain.com.au Factory 7/28 The Concourse Cowes Phillip Island coast 158

coast gets eco organised!

promotional feature

The Coast team recently moved office to set up shop in the town of San Remo. We wanted to make the best use of the space, so we called in professional eco-organiser and home styler, Tanya Lewis.

First visit:

Tanya arrives at our just-moved-in jumble of an office to survey the space and discuss our individual and group needs to make sure Coast runs as efficiently as possible! Amidst many lively discussions, Tanya takes photos and measurements, and we all enjoy a fun and relaxed morning.

Second visit:

zonin tes

crea lind B espac rest te orial t i i d d n E s ad o t o Ph

g

Tanya comes back to deliver our styling scheme. She has devised floor plans outlining furniture placements to meet our office needs and systems. She then presents us with the mood board she has created to ensure that the Coast office reflects us as a team.

The results speak for themselves!

We loved: - Tanya’s philosophy of not spending a fortune to make our space functional and beautiful - Bringing personal objects into the space to make it our own - Deck chairs in the office – they act as a funky coastal decoration as well as giving us the chance to sit outside and have meetings in the sun ‘coast style’ - Reinventing objects and furniture that we already have - Creating a central message-board by painting a door with blackboard paint

t h new pain rniture wit Recycle fu s sion office emis Plants absorb

Tanya works on the basic organising principles of: o o o o

Zoning Furniture placement Traffic Storage solutions

‘Organise Your Office’ says Tanya

Meeting room Functional polished concrete floors

EcoOrganiser and home styling Tanya Lewis Call 5989 2009. www.ecoorganiser.com.au

“We enjoy a home that nourishes and supports our lifestyle, and since we spend so much time at work, why shouldn’t we expect the same from our office? In these competitive times businesses are always looking for efficiency and a way to stand out. A well-organised office that functions and flows increases productivity, reduces stress, saves money and reduces our carbon footprint.

My role is to create inspirational spaces that make people want to come to work, that improve relationships and increase productivity.

Eco Organiser creates customised solutions to help others get organised, find balance, restore order and maximise resources. They work with what you already have to create the space you want.

‘A place for everything and everything in its place’ – this may sound dull and boring, but there is so much truth in it.” Eco Organiser Tanya Lewis

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promotional feature

Kevinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work features in European luxury house and lifestyle magazines.

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Holden on to tradition kevin holden

words sally o’neill photos warren reed

After travelling the world for over 14 years crafting timber kitchens and interiors for the rich and famous, Kevin Holden has settled his skills in Gippsland.

Born in England, Kevin emigrated to Australia with his parents in 1972. “The BBC did a program on us called ‘The Immigrants’,” he recalls as we sit in his Wonthaggi factory. “It’s embarrassing to look back on now – I had long hair and pimples and loved Abba!”

Work in a drawing office just wasn’t for him, so he landed a cadetship at the Herald and Weekly Times as a photographer. Despite being voted Australian Cadet Photographer of the year in 1979, Kevin still felt that it wasn’t the right career choice. “It sounds crazy, but at 22 I just knew.”

His short stint in photography did leave him with some memorable moments, however. Like the time he went to photograph tennis legend John Newcombe. “We knocked on the door and he was in the shower. He said, “ If you want a photo, just take it now!” “In the shower?” I ask. I took it, and back in the darkroom, there he was in all his glory. We cropped it, but his people got wind of the fact that the negative was very explicit. The picture editor, editor and I had to sit there while the neg was cut into little pieces, and we had to sign affidavits that we would never use it.”

He married and moved to Gippsland to set up a business in joinery and cabinet making at Mirboo North. “It felt right; I liked working with my hands. I found out later that my uncle had been a cabinetmaker at Buckingham Palace.” A marriage breakup in 1992 redirected his life. “I sold the business and decided to do something really radical.”

He took off to England for three months. “I got to work on projects you can only dream about. The boy from Mirboo North was working on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s kitchen!”

Travel, reputation and opportunity led to a phone call from Sweden out of the blue.

The man on the end of the line was about to restore a 400-year-old home, and he wanted Kevin for the job. Kevin decided to stay in Sweden, establishing a business and working with the likes of Christel Knappe, known for her interior fit-outs in Parliament House, Canberra.

It was love that eventually led him back to Australia. “In Sweden, I was on a date one night and it fizzled out. I was walking past a bar and some Canadian friends called me inside and I met my wife Cecilia. We hit it off and the rest is history.” The couple came back to Australia in 2002. “That was hard for me. I had been working on iconic projects and was back to smaller budgets and little respect from the architects.” He studied kitchen and bathroom design and the couple moved to Gippsland to be near Kevin’s children.

When he was headhunted for a job in Dubai, his wife Cecilia encouraged him to take it. It was totally consuming. “I was at work all the time and had to jump whenever I was told to. They have bottomless pits of money over there, but it was such hard work – they demand your soul.”

“A big budget doesn’t necessarily mean great work: you need good people involved, too. More money allows you to use higher quality finishes, but the craftsmanship>

coast 161

Kevin pictured with wife Cecilia at her shop - fitted out by Kevin

“I was told that the owner wanted a fireplace on the aircraft. We knew it was impossible, but I had to check it out anyway. I contacted Boeing and said, I know this is crazy, but…”

needs to be there to start with,” he explains. “I was technical designer for the fit-out for one of the restaurants in the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai. We had a budget of $14 million and, I kid you not, they used leather made from ostrich scrotum for the seats! It’s the softest leather you can get. They could have used normal leather, but they had to go the extra mile for the world’s only seven-star hotel.”

One of the most ridiculous requests he received was during the fit-out of a 747. “I was told that the owner wanted a fireplace on the aircraft. We knew it was impossible, but I had to check it out anyway. I contacted Boeing and said, ‘I know this is crazy, but…’

They said: ‘No worries; we get this all the time from people with more money than sense!’ ” Burnt out from the constant stress, and missing his family, Kevin came home. “So I did the only thing I know, and set up shop.” Woodwork Solutions specialises in quality design and craftsmanship including interior fit-outs (kitchens, bathrooms etc) as well as furniture, staircases, doors and windows. Kevin was delighted when clients he had worked for 30 years earlier – some were rebuilding homes lost in the Boolarra bushfires – tracked him down and engaged him for their projects.

In a world of cheap imports, Kevin offers the kind of quality craftsmanship that is getting harder to find. He crafts everything by hand, his workshop housing more specialised equipment than many larger factories that work with pre-fabricated panels.

“My point of difference is my experience, and my focus on European styling.” He uses only sustainable, renewable timbers.

“A lot of my customers have ecological concerns. I won’t use rainforest timbers. I love timber and I use natural oils rather than lacquers. If you do it right, it lasts.” Woodwork Solutions - Kevin 0458 520 347

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specialised joinery solutions Custom made: • Bathroom Interiors • Kitchen Interiors • Furniture • Staircases • Windows • The only Certified Kitchen and Bathroom Designer in Gippsland Kevin Holden PO Box 789, Wonthaggi 0458 520 347

www.woodworksolutions.com.au coast 163

155 Thompson Avenue, Cowes Ph. 03 5952 1488 Fax. 03 5952 1348 www.southcoastfurnishings.com.au

Furniture

Homewares

Floor Coverings

interior - exterior - packages

vases - cushions - rugs

carpet - vinyl - timber

Bedding

Window Coverings

mattresses - beds - manchester

interior - exterior - motorisation

ISLAND GARDEN SUPPLIES

DISPLAY GARDENS NOW OPEN 886 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, 3925 Ph: 5956 7397 Fax: 5956 7929 Sand, Pavers, Blended Soils, Screenings, Rocks, Pebbles, Sleepers, Barks, Mulches, Path and Driveway Toppings & Mesh and Trench Reinforcement, also PHILLIP ISLAND PRE-MIXED CONCRETE. We also have a large range of beautiful Garden Ornaments and Pots. coast 164

Pools, Spas, Gardens + Outdoors

Compass Pools

Island Landscape & Design

James Ross Landscape Design

Making the most of limited space.

It’s sometimes hard to foresee how clever design can transform an uninspiring space.

The addition of a pool and some creative landscaping can convert even a standard suburban backyard into a space that will be practical and exciting for a couple or a family who want to enjoy their time together outdoors. Working closely with each client, the team at Compass Pools will create a pool that perfectly meets the client’s need for a truly beautiful pool with simple, clean lines designed to match modern or traditional homes with ease.

Call 1300 764 270 www.compasspoolsvic.com.au

Matt and his team believe there is great benefit in starting with a landscape design or master plan for your outdoor area. You will save money in the long run and achieve the desired outcome for your garden. A welldesigned outdoor area is a fantastic way to maximise your appreciation of our stunning coast.

Call 0419 356 222 www.islandlandscaping.com.au

James specialises in contemporary, sustainable design and coastal landscapes. His construction background also allows him to offer project management which benefits his clients and allows the design process to flow through to the completion of the project.

Call 0401 669 927 www.jamesrosslandscape.com.au

Pristine Pools

Van Steensel Timbers

As a Just Spas dealer, you can view a range of spas including an operational swim spa at the Pristine Pools showroom. The team offers regular servicing, professional and friendly advice and free water-testing in-store. You can view their range of outdoor furniture and giftware along with all the pool and spa equipment you need.

Call 5952 1414 www.pristinepools.com.au

The friendly team in Grantville stocks a range of water tanks and building materials for all your building projects. Their staff provides friendly, professional service and advice.

Corner Bass Highway and Corinella turn-off.

Call 5678 8552 www.vansteenseltimbers.com.au

Alufab

Island Garden Supplies

The team specialises in custom stainless steel balustrading perfect for your coast home. They will assist you with design, supply, installation and repairs and can preserve your exsisting balustrades.

Call 0418 149 114 alufabvic@bigpond.com

Offering quality garden products to the public and trade for over 35 years, Island Garden Supplies has everything you need.

Be inspired by their great garden displays.

Call 5956 7397 886 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven

Mojo Contracting These professional arborists are proud to service Phillip Island, San Remo and beyond. They specialise in awkward access areas, confined spaces, and tree and stump removal. With 15 years’ full-time experience in the amenity tree industry, they have the experience and equipment to do the job the job safely, professionally and efficiently.

Call 5952 5542 www.mojocontracting.com.au

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Rooftop solar power is a better investment than shares An independent think tank believes Australian retirees investing in solar power will find it a more profitable investment than Blue Chip shares and safer than bank shares.

Phone: 1300 007652 for more information www.sunplussolar.com.au or check out your local distributor at www.phazer.com.au

Coastal Refrigeration & Airconditioning we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just install, we look after you . . .

Servicing Phillip Island & surrounding areas

Commercial & Domestic Refrigeration & Airconditioning Sales, Installation & service of all major brands.

Rick North is a fully qualified refrigeration & airconditioning technician with over 20 years experience in the trade. Coastal Refrigeration and Airconditioning provide professional before and after sales services.

ARC Authorisation No: AU22840

Shop 2/65A Back Beach Road, San Remo 5678 5190 Coastal refrigeration2.indd 1

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After hours commercial breakdown coastalrefrigandaircon@bigpond.com 24/11/11 3:51 PM

Property + Lifestyle

Alex Scott Phillip Island

San Remo Realty

Stockdale & Leggo+ Judith Wright Phillip Island

Mr Alex Scott established his company in the pioneering district of Gippsland in 1886.

Built on a strong foundation of honesty and integrity, the company continues to enjoy a long association with generations of loyal clients. We can help you with buying, selling, renting or holiday accommodation. Visit us at our office in Cowes.

Call 5952 2633 www.alexscott.com.au

Let the ladies at San Remo Realty make your dream coastal lifestyle a reality. The team has many years of local experience, a reputation for being the ‘San Remo experts’ and a proven sales record. Dedicated to providing superior customer service and honest Real Estate advice, they are enthusiastic about their profession and the beautiful area they represent. Whether buying, selling or just getting a feel for the local market, the girls are more than happy to help you.

Call 5678 5141 www.sanremorealty.com.au

Cape Paterson Ecovillage

Seagrove

Shearwater on the Island

This is your chance to be a part of Australia’s first zero-carbon housing project championing biodiversity, sustainability and community. Located on the stunning coast of Cape Paterson, this is a unique lifestyle opportunity. www.capepatersonecovillage.com.au

Phillip Island’s premier environmentallysensitive estate, Seagrove is superbly located in Cowes just 700m from a sandy, safe swimming beach and within walking distance of shops, restaurants and cafés.

Seagrove’s generously-proportioned home sites average well over 700m2, offering more space for quality homes, outdoor entertaining and our island lifestyle. Land in the new Boobook release is now selling from $153,900.

Freecall 1800 61 61 06 www.seagrove.com.au

Enjoy your piece of island life on Phillip Island with the newest land release at Shearwater on the Island. The Pavilion 1 Release offers a stunning sense of lifestyle, community and family featuring parks, playgrounds, BBQs and architecturally-designed shelters. A social sanctuary designed with lifestyle in mind.

Call1300 743 279 www.shearwaterestate.com.au

Stockdale and Leggo Inverloch, Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson and Grantville are a highlyawarded team. Specialising in Bass Coast Real Estate, they are passionate about the region and extremely knowledgeable about the benefits of living and holidaying on the best piece of coastline in Australia. Stockdale and Leggo is a powerful brand well recognised and respected in Melbourne and interstate.

Call 5952 5100 www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/cowes

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

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

RTA: AU11737

Bass Coast Refrigeration_v1.indd 1

6/03/11 10:58 PM

Offices located at Wonthaggi, Warragul and Traralgon • Building Permits

Tel: 03 5672 4655

• Building Inspections • Building Regulation Advice

Servicing Gippsland for over 17 years Fast Building Permits Victoria wide Building Code & Regulation consultancy Owner Builder reports

R APP

D OVE

Online lodgement of building permit applications Suppliers of HIA stationery, contracts and specifications Members of the Building Practitioners Board of Victoria Members of the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors Members of the Housing Industry Association

Building Surveyors and Building Inspectors

www.gbas.com.au coast 168

Advice

For all your pool and spa needs.

Gippsland Building Approvals Country Victoria’s largest building surveying and inspection practice, Gippsland Building Approvals has been servicing Gippsland for over 16 years, with offices in Wonthaggi, Warragul & Traralgon. Their wealth of knowledge makes your permit experience an easy one. All staff are registered building practitioners and have the skills & knowledge to complement your building project. Lodge your building permit application online and save precious time & money. Fast turnaround times for all services let you get on with what you do best... building!

Call 5672 4655 www.gbas.com.au

Bass Coast Shire Council Working in one of the fastest-growing areas in regional Victoria, the Bass Coast Shire Council Planning and Building Team is well equipped with the knowledge, advice and skills to help you with your building project.

For more information, contact the team on 1300 BCOAST (226 278).

Your one-stop pool shop!

• Mobile Pool & Spa Servicing • Free water testing in-store • Huge range of Pumps, Filters & Equipment • Free professional advice

Pool Safety It’s about your kids. When you clean your pool this summer, remember to think about pool safety. Check the pool barrier and surrounding area.

Over winter gates can jam, poles can shift and vegetation can grow, obstructing the barrier and affecting its efficiency. When you use the pool this summer, make sure you supervise children when they are playing in or near the pool area.

• Focus pool & spa chemicals • Limited display of outdoor furniture • Outdoor living accessories

Being Water-Wise While Building When building or extending your home, make yourself aware of existing services located in your property or your street. By obtaining locations of the water pipes that may exist on your property, you can avoid unnecessary damage during construction. Contact ‘Dial Before You Dig’ on 1100.com.au to find the location of all underground utilities in your area. Do not build directly over any services, and ensure minimum clearance between buildings and pipes.

All work on your property involving water and sewerage pipes must be performed by a licensed plumber. Home-owners are encouraged to have alternative water sources such as water tanks or greywater systems to help conserve drinking water. All alternative sources of water require backflow protection to prevent contaminates entering and to protect the quality of the drinking water supply.

Call. 5952 1414 www.pristinepools.com.au Factory 5, 26 The Concourse, Cowes

“When building or renovating your home, it is important to consider installing water-efficient products. By using the WELS Star rating system as a guide and purchasing appliances with a 4 or 5 Star rating, you can help conserve valuable drinking water. Additionally, the Living Victoria Water Rebate program offers rebates of up to $1000 for products that can help save water.”

For further information please contact Westernport Water on 1300 720 711.

Finally, remember that anything that holds more than 300mm of water is a drowning risk. Supervise children around water-filled buckets, fish ponds and inflatable pools. Call 1300 BCOAST (226 278) for free advice and inspections of pool barriers.

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Harness the power of the sun: Install solar panels on your roof to start turning sunlight into electricity.

$150

off for Coast Readers just mention this ad

Why should you choose us to install your solar power? ✔ We offer a thorough and honest on site assessment of your home’s potential for solar power. ✔ We believe you need to be educated about all the options available to you, and what type of system is best suited to your needs. ✔ We guarantee quality installation that is conducted with care. ✔ We are an owner-operated local business who prides itself on its reputation.

enquiries@sunscapeelectrical.com.au www.sunscapeelectrical.com.au 35 Station Street Lang Lang, VIC 3984 Sunscape Electrical Pty Ltd is a local owner-operated electrical contracting business based in Lang Lang. We aim to help our clients use modern electrics in ways which improve the comfort and convenience of their every day lives, while at the same time helping them to minimise their carbon footprint. We specialise in solar power installations, and are fully qualified to assess, design and install a solar system to meet your energy needs. Visit our website to find out more.

Call. 1300 733 332 coast 170

Coast Complete Building and Reno Guide A-Z Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s THE list with all the contacts you need to get your home project started! Check their ad for further details...

Advice and Information

Heating & Cooling

Outdoor/Pools/Spas/Gardening

Bass Coast Shire Council 1300 BCOAST (226 278) basscoast.vic.gov.au

Bass Coast Refrigeration & Air Conditioning 5672 2426

Amada Inverloch 0413 013 433 amadabyamalee.com.au

Dial Before You Dig 1100 1100.com.au

Coastal Refrigeration & Air Conditioning 5678 5190

Arborzone 5674 3566

Interiors + Furnishings

Island Garden Supplies 5956 7397

Amada Inverloch 0413 013 433 amadabyamalee.com.au

Island Landscape & Design 5952 3838 islandlandscaping.com.au

Architects

Finding the Grain 0418 355 148 findingthegrain.com.au

James Ross Landscape & Design 0401 669 927 jamesrosslandscape.com.au

Terrence Nott Architect 9489 8863 nottarchitecture.com.au

Henriettas, Leongatha 5662 5856 henriettas.com.au

Mojo Contracting 0427 052 173 mojocontracting.com.au

Tom Wilson 9830 4904 wilson.tom1@bigpond.com

Invisage Interiors 5674 6247 invisageinverloch.com

Pristine Pools 5952 1414 pristinepools.com.au

Westernport Water 1300 720 711 westernportwater.com.au Gippsland Building Approvals 5672 4655 gbas.com.au

Compass Pools 1300 764 270 compasspoolsvic.com.au

Ready Set Grow 5952 2726

L&J Tuddin Antique & DĂŠcor Gallery 5674 3982

Builders & Designers Archiblox 0410 480 255 archiblox.com.au.

Beaumont Concepts 5672 5196 beaumontconcepts.com.au Bass Coast Builders 0418 749 237 basscoastbuilders.com.au

Linton la Fontaine, Mt Eliza 9787 2899 Manyung Gallery manyunggallery.com.au Metrix New Kitchens 0428 142 020 metrixkitchens.com Paint Place Cowes 5952 2522 + Wonthaggi 5672 5522 Pantai Living 5952 2210 pantailiving.com.au

Property Agents Alex Scott, Phillip Island 5952 2633 Inverloch 5674 1111 alexscott.com.au San Remo Realty 5678 5141 sanremorealty.com.au

Ready Set Grow 5952 2726

Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island 5952 5100 stockdaleleggo.com.au/cowes

Bluecoast Builders 0418 388 159 bluecoastbuilders.com.au

South Coast Furnishings 5952 1488 southcoastfurnishings.com.au

Solar Solutions

Darren Brown Design 5672 1144 dbdesign.com.au

Southern Bazaar 0409 234 482 southernbazaar.com.au

Island Energy 0439 323 043 islandenergy.com.au

Home Design & Construction 5678 5777 homedesignandconstruction.com.au

Woodwork Solutions 0458 520 347 woodworksolutions.com.au

New World Solar Solutions 0407 524 244

Lifestyle Options

Sunscape Eelectrical 1300 733 332 sunscapeelectrical.com.au

Beachouse Constructions 0418 595 410 beachhouseconstructions.com.au

Langford Jones Homes 9579 2277 langfordjoneshomes.com.au Metricon Homes 5674 6451 metricon.com.au New Dimension Homes 8773 0777 newdimension.com.au SJD Homes 5940 4204 sjdhomes.com.au

Sun Plus Solar 1300 007 652 sunplussolar.com.au

Cape Paterson Ecovillage capepatersonecovillage.com.au Parklands, Wonthaggi 1300 467 898

Trades and Hardware Supplies

Seagrove1800 616 106 seagrove.com.au

ALuFab 0418 149 114

Shearwater on the Island 1300 743 279 shearwaterestate.com.au

Van Steensels Grantville 5678 8552 vansteenseltimbers.com.au

The Mews, San Remo 0416 034 044

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PE N O NO W

Now Leasing Cowes Phillip Island

DUNSMORE RD

THOMPSON AVE

CHURCH ST

CHURCH ST

CHURCH ST

CHURCH ST

DUNSMORE RD

THOMPSON AVE

SETTLEMENT RD

SETTLEMENT RD

SETTLEMENT RD

SETTLEMENT RD

Join Woolworths, Woolworths Liquor and approximately 13 specialty stores in this exciting new retail precinct located on Thompsons Ave Cowes, Phillip Island.

Limited opportunities exist for a café/restaurant, fashion and service providers.

Franchise opportunities exist for Muffin Break & Cold Rock.

Areas: 104m², 96m²& 40m².

For leasing information contact:

David Warren 0410 464 470 coast 172

www.woolworthsshoppingcentres.com.au

Has your property lost its Mojo?

Tree & Stump Removal Tree Pruning Cabling Dead Wooding Tree Reports On Site Mulching Garden Clean Ups Garden Maintenance Mulch & Firewood Supplies

Ph/Fx.

5952 5542 | Mobile.

0427 052 173 | Web.

mojocontracting.com.au

Specialists in: -LED Lighting -Solar Hot Water -Solar Power -Split System Heating and Cooling -Test and Tag

Island Energy are specialists in sustainable living through energy efďŹ ciency.

Contact us for a no obligation quote on making your home more energy efďŹ cient!

www.islandenergy.com.au sales@islandenergy.com.au Kai 0439323043 Ben 0438097405 Wayne 0418529082

New Premises, Factory 3, 64-66 Genista st, San Remo Island Energy.indd 1

25/11/11 6:02 PM

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coast property

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

New Dimension Homes coast 175

coastal property lisitings

your coastal real estate specialists AREA Cape Paterson

ADDRESS

EPR

AGENT/CONTACT

Ecovillage

POA

www.capepatersonecovillage.com.au

Cowes

183-189 Justice Rd (The Island Spa)

POA

Alex Scott & Staff, Cowes 5952 2633

Cowes

‘Holmwood’ 37 Chapel Street

POA

Alex Scott & Staff, Cowes 5952 2633

Cowes

Seagrove Estate

From $158,900

Call 1800 616 106

Cowes

Shearwater on the Island

POA

Alex Scott & Staff Cowes 5952 2633

Cowes

Whytesands

Blocks from $129,000

Alex Scott & Staff, Cowes 5952 2633

Kilcunda

545 Densley Rd

$1,495,000

Alex Scott & Staff Wonthaggi 5672 1911

Rhyll

14 Hastings St

POA

Stockdale and Leggo Cowes 5952 5100

San Remo

6 Ocean View Drive

$639,000

The Professionals San Remo 5678 5141

San Remo

13 McCarthy Street

$595,000

The Professionals San Remo 5678 5141

San Remo

The Mews

Starting at $259,000

Call Peter 0416 034 044 or Garth 0408 351 294

Smith Beach

11 Beach Court Over $1.5 million

POA

Alex Scott & Staff, Cowes 5952 2633

Surf Beach

6/1 Stradbroke Cres

$380,000

The Professionals San Remo 5678 5141 The Professionals San Remo 5678 5141

Sunderland Bay

24 Sunderland Bay Road

$259,000

Wonthaggi

Parklands

Blocks from $138,000 Stockdale & Leggo Wonthaggi 1300 467 898

Walkerville

Bear Gully Coastal cottages

POA

.

LJ Hooker Inverloch 5674 2888

discover your coastal dream property!

BEAR GULLY

this very special property is for sale

Waterfront accommodation overlooking Waratah Bay with views to Wilson’s Promontory Scott Hughes 0488 748 888 03 5674 2888 Inverloch Office For an 8pg electronic brochure go to www.ljhooker.com.au/N01Fe85

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The professionals team put the fun into selling houses!

FOR SALE

san remo realty

Shop 2, 129 Marine Parade, San Remo

Phone: 5678 5141 www.sanremorealty.com.au coast 177

words supplied photos warren reed

Seagrove coastal livin living

promotional feature

in harmony with the environment On Seagrove Way in Cowes, a pair of large bronze Great Egrets Ardea alba on a simple rock plinth take pride of place. Sculpted by award-winning Mornington Peninsula-based artist Heather Ellis, this public art is symbolic of the way in which high-quality design and the protection of the island’s pristine environment have been brought together at Seagrove.

Located just 800 metres from the main street, and even closer to the beach, Seagrove has been recognised as setting a new benchmark for environmentally-sensitive coastal living.

Immediately beyond the two bronze birds, Seagrove’s distinctive, fiveacre wetland is a stunning example of both form and function. Within the wetland, a series of curved rock gabion weirs creates striking, leafshaped patterns. This leaf motif is also reflected in the shape of the picnic shelter at the end of one of the long elevated boardwalks.

Each of the leaf-shaped spaces – or cells – has been designed with a specific depth and selected plant species. Together, all of the cells work as a natural filter system for the entire estate. Using computer modelling developed by Monash University, the wetland has been

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designed to increase the quality of water reaching the bay from Seagrove by a factor of twenty.

Less than 100 metres from the wetland in Seagrove Park – the second largest of Seagrove’s three parks – an architecturally-designed picnic shelter overlooks the children’s playground. The skillion form of the shelter’s roof has been angled northward in order to capture the power of the sun with its six integrated solar panels. The captured energy more than offsets the energy consumed by the park’s barbecues.

The barbecue and playground area is set amongst over 60 highconservation significance remnant eucalypts. Surrounding these important trees is over 4,300m2 of mulched garden beds featuring

“Rain gardens have been designed to harvest and naturally filter rainwater.”

massed plantings of indigenous groundcovers. In addition to providing habitat for native animals such as Echidnas, the mulched beds delineate the areas of the park away from the grassed playing areas where trees may senesce and regenerate naturally. These older, hollow-bearing trees are critically important for nesting birds.

Seagrove’s parks are linked by extra-wide streets featuring garden beds with indigenous groundcovers and native trees. Integrated into this streetscape landscaping is an extensive network of smaller, rock-mulched gardens – or rain gardens. These rain gardens have been designed to harvest and naturally filter rainwater. Each garden is planted with selected wetland species, and is designed to fill and then slowly empty after rain, returning naturally-filtered rainwater to the surrounding soil. Seagrove streetscapes also feature bespoke silver-coloured street lights with low-energy lamps and highefficiency optics to reduce power consumption by almost half.

The benefits of this emphasis on design and sustainability can be best appreciated by the residents, who enjoy coastal living surrounded by landscaped open spaces and rich birdlife.

seagrove facts • A 23-million litre, computer-designed wetland works in concert with smaller “rain gardens” located in every street to make stormwater up to twenty times cleaner before it reaches Western Port.

• Over 800m of existing overhead powerlines were replaced with underground power to improve views and allow trees space to grow.

• Seagrove’s 35,000m2 of landscaped open space includes over 130m of elevated boardwalks as well as extensive walking and cycle paths.

• Over 2,500 indigenous trees, 50,000 indigenous mid- and groundstorey plants and 30,000 wetland plants have been planted at Seagrove.

• 4,500-litre rainwater tanks in every home save over 10 million litres of clean drinking water each year.

• An underground LPG network reduces greenhouse emissions by 3,000 tonnes annually by reducing demand on conventionallygenerated electricity.

• Energy-efficient street lights powered by accredited green energy reduce energy consumption by 48% and greenhouse emissions to zero.

• The barbecues in Seagrove Park are powered by six solar panels on the roof of the picnic shelter.

For a copy of Seagrove’s complimentary environmental guide, call 1800 61 61 06 or visit www.seagrove.com.au

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UNVEILING THE ULTIMATE LIFESTYLE WATERVIEW RETREAT...

Property Address: 545 Densley Rd, Kilcunda Asking Price: $1.495,000 Contact Dennis Ginn 0412 317 360

Indulge yourself with the stunning panoramic picture perfect coast line views of Bass Strait and Western Port Bay, from every aspect of this meticulously maintained property, situated on 5 acres, on the crest of the Kilcunda hills.

Fastidious attention to detail is on display from the choice of location, to the classical and timeless design of this light filled northerly orientated first class passive solar residence. Offering luxurious accommodation and quality appointments throughout, with two expansive living areas, elegant main bedroom, ensuite and parents retreat, two further generous bedrooms and bathrooms, deluxe kitchen, office/study, country laundry plus integrated double garage.

Entertain with the outdoor living terrace, while marvelling at the wondrous natural landscape and ambience of the picturesque pond on property and beyond the title boundaries, a presentation of arguably the best views available in the Bass Coast region.

Situated close to pristine beaches and within 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD. Inspection by appointment will leave you absolutely awestruck!!

7 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett Street, Inverloch, Victoria coast 180

03 56741 111

The benefits of going green at cape paterson ecovillage

promotional feature

The figures are in. The sustainability features planned for Cape Paterson Ecovillage will do more than save the planet: a new study shows that there are also substantial financial benefits to going green.

The ecovillage is based on a commitment to best practice housing design combined with smart, efficient technology in the home and the use of electric vehicles . The team recently undertook a rigorous study to determine if its commitment to sustainability will also benefit residents financially.

Two assessments were undertaken, the first with in-kind expert advice from the Alternative Technology Association, Master Builders Association, Sustainability Victoria, Moreland Energy Foundation and local builders and designers. Then Tosh Szatow, former CSIRO researcher specialising in decentralised clean energy and energyefficiency solutions went over the figures again with support from Sustainability Victoria.

The study found: • Cape Paterson Ecovillage buyers could achieve cumulative savings of more than $300,000 over 25 years on in-home and transport energy, water and mortgage costs compared to buyers of a conventional 6-star home and vehicle.

• When the energy and water savings accrued by the sustainability features are used to accelerate mortgage repayments, almost eight years could be shaved off a 25-year mortgage. The higher the deposit paid on the Cape Paterson Ecovillage home, the faster a mortgage can be paid off and the bigger the overall savings.

• The money saved by going from a house of 250m2 (the Victorian average for new homes) to 200m2 (the size proposed for Cape Paterson Ecovillage homes) is more than enough to pay for the cost

of all sustainability features, so it pays huge dividends to design smart homes that eliminate unnecessary space.

• Sustainability features proposed for the project, as a package, are likely to generate, at worst, between 6-10% returns after tax. This compares quite favorably with other investment options and is likely to improve as designs are refined and a bulk-build program enables project efficiencies that reduce costs.

Best practice design will see a minimum of 7.5 stars achieved with orientation to the northern sun, intelligent use of internal thermal mass to hold warmth in the winter, and external shading to keep summer sun out.

Award-winning Project Architect Adam Dettrick has a strong track record designing homes that achieve high star ratings without the green-premium, and developments that work as social communities.

This takes experience and expertise, as well as a philosophical commitment to making sustainable living affordable.

“Sustainable housing not only offers superior liveability and comfort, but can deliver much lower energy bills and maintenance costs. The starting point for any sustainable home is an intelligent and practical layout that optimises solar orientation and natural ventilation. A house designed along these lines does not have to cost any more to build, so it’s amazing that so few homes in Victoria have been designed this way, even today,” says Adam.

The project will commence in 2012.

The final detailed study and information on how to register your interest can be found at www.capepatersonecovillage.com.au

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aroundtown what’s goin’ on around your place

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Photos by Lou Curtis-Smith and Warren Reed

Positioned on a gentle valley rise off San Remo beach, The Mews is a rare opportunity with unprecedented potential.

The Mews San Remo The Mews is a rare boutique estate with a unique opportunity for the buyer who wants to build that special home or those who are ready for a sea change.

Privately located in an elevated cul-de-sac overlooking the beach and ocean, these spectacular San Remo home sites offer breathtaking ocean views and creature comforts that are second to none.

Located opposite a linear park that gently meanders down to the secluded back beach, each home site offers ocean views across to Cape Woolamai and is only a short stroll down the boardwalk to the beach, from your front door. Just a little further

to San Remo village, you will find yourself immersed in a myriad of restaurants and boutiques, or, if you are feeling decadent, a day at the beach swimming, surfing, or fishing, is only a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw away. What a lifestyle!

With such a limited supply of quality home sites available, The Mews has become the needle in the hay stack. This is a one-off, cannot be repeated opportunity to buy a signature home site with stunning views and, as such, is a superb opportunity to find yourself ensconced in your dream home and be lavished by spectacular surrounds.

Only 6 Blocks Left. Starting at $259,000

For more information please call Peter 0416 034 044 or Garth 0408 351 294 today. coast 183

aroundtown whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on around your place

Archies on the Creek - Cup day

Simple, stylish, and sustainable.

Tom Wilson Architect T. E.

9830 4904 M. 0411 464 838 wilson.tom1@bigpond.com

P.O. Box 195 CANTERBURY VIC. 3126

Original Logo colour C= 100 M= 55 Y= 10 K= 48

Black

Bluecoast specialises in quality construction for the domestic market.

With Bluecoast, you and your project will receive the individual attention you deserve.

Greyscale

Graeme Anderson 0418388159 Reversed Out

graeme@bluecoastbuilders.com.au www.bluecoastbuilders.com.au

coast 184 bluecoast builders.indd 1

16/11/11 10:51 AM

By Metrix Kitchens

Specialist Interior Finishes Granite made in Melbourne by

Custom stainless steel balustrading by Alufab, specialising in: • •

Design, Supply and Installation Repairs, Restoration and Preservation of existing balustrades

Stunning granite benchtops for your home or business.

Quality for less than you think.

Face lifts & renovations

Phone Peter 0428 14 20 20 www.metrixkitchens.com

Call 0418 149 114

alufabvic@bigpond.com

VAN STEENSEL TIMBERS BUILDING MATERIALS & WATER TANKS

www.coastmagazine.net

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

COWES 215 Settlement Road Tel 5952 2522 Fax 5952 2593

coast directory

Granite Benchtops

• PAINTS • TOOLS

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

WONTHAGGI 21 bilson St Tel 5672 5522 Fax 5672 5533

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coast directory

Specialising in Remote solar living

Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring Inspiring island landscape + design

Off the Power Grid Solar Power Systems - Including maintenance and repairs.

Large Range of products to customize each system to customers needs Matt Crooks . Smiths Beach . Phillip Island. 0419 356 222 t. 5952 3838 e. info@islandlandscaping.com.au www.islandlandscaping.com.au

Island landscape and design.indd 1

Supporting Australian Manufactured product suppliers

Call Warren 0407 524 244

23/11/11 11:47 AM

“Performing quality work on your gardens biggest assets”

Pro m p t Professional Qualified

www.coastmagazine.net

• • • •

Tree pruning and planting selections Tree preservation and maintenance Tree removal Consulting and Arboricultural reports

Call Peter Bateman 5674 3566 or mobile: 0411 072 929 arborzone@dcsi.net.au Servicing Gippsland, Bass Coast & Peninsula

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

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

make your home your haven

Stone baths

Marble basins Homewares

Outdoor furniture Water features

Garden accessories If you’re building, renovating or just looking for a unique piece to

complement your home or garden, amada has something for you.

34 bear st inverloch 3996 | m 0413 013 433 www.amadabyamalee.com.au

mookah studio offers a range of locally made, stylish, contemporary, eco-friendly homewares, textiles accessories and funky womens skirts 32 cashin st, inverloch www@mookah.com.au

32 Cashin Street,

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

showroom/office 22a cashin st inverloch 3996 tel 03 5674 6247 • fax 03 5674 6249 email invint@bigpond.net.au • www.invisageinverloch.com

Ph: (03) 9787 2899 In store at 42 Ranelagh Drive, Mt Eliza Or online at www.lintonlafontaine.com.au

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www.coastmagazine.net

FASHION | JEWELLERY | HOMEWARES | GIFTS | BAGS no obligation free advice, measure and quotes for all your interior & exterior window covering needs

coast directory

mookah studio

Portraits

Fiery Red Head by Rachel Bennett

• Paintings • Linocuts • Limited edition prints • Sculpture • Kiln fired glass • Ceramics • Jewellery • Photography • Artist quality art supplies • Giftware & more.

OPEN Thurs to Mon 10am - 4pm (Tues and Wed by appointment) Ph 5674 2145 Helen 0417 954 731 Tamsin 0402 647 915 Located in arcade next to Alex Scott Real Estate 7 A’Beckett St

www.artgalleryofinverloch.com

L&J TUDDIN restorations

Servicing Gippsland and Mornington Peninsula Lucas Piera Mobile 0414 343 104 Email lpiera@lenstolife.com.au www.lenstolife.com.au

Lucas.indd 1

24/11/11 11:10 AM

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

sculpture in the Opening 11th Dec at 2pm - 29th Jan 2012

not christmas day

www.coastmagazine.net

sian adnam • margaret balfe • helen bristol • john carlson • laurie collins • pat dale • paul hearnshaw bob hickman • barry hill • patricia hill • andrew kasper chris josephs • helen mcinnes • margaret mcpherson john mutsaers • angela newberry • deidre spencer-

Over 20 years experience. Private restoration available. Antiques to contemporary.

The Antique gallery is located between the Inverloch Motel and Inverloch Nursery.

Open Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. Public & School Holidays or by appointment.

RESTORED FURNITURE FROM EUROPE & CHINA

37 Powlett Street, Inverloch Tel/Fax (03) 5674 3982 Email ljrestore@live.com.au coast 188

fletcher • rachel warren • grant flather • martin keogh

vineyard

coast directory

Weddings

Wood fired pizzas some days. Local cheese platters & wine tastings each day - visit www.lyrebirdhill.com.au at lyre bird hill winery 370 Inverloch Rd, Koonwarra Ph. 5664 3204

for exhibition info: Ph. 5664 3238 margaret.mcp@bigpond.com

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

15 Falls Road Fish Creek

Summer Mosaic Workshops with Heather Fahnle Learn the art of mosaic. You will create your own mosaic guided from design to completion.

A great way to spend a day with your friends.

All materials and lunch supplied.

Email or phone for bookings.. www. fahnle.com.au | heather@fahnle.com.au | mob. 0417 562 625

03 5683 2481 0423 721 593 0421 209 878

monthly exhibitions of contemporary artwork | art materials | picture framing e: framing@geckostudiogallery.com.au w: geckostudiogallery.com.au opening times thurs-mon 10am-5pm

Kerry Spokes & Michael Lester

Shearwater Studio Presents ‘Flotsam and Jetsam’ an exhibition of contemporary oil paintings by Phillip Island artist Diana Bannister.

CHRISTMAS SOIREE

Friday 9th & Sat 10th Dec doors open from 4pm friday

see you there . . . . . . 0418519181

The exhibition will open on 7–29 Jan 2012.

Official opening Saturday 7 Jan 2–4pm Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm Eftpos and credit card facilities will be available for the duration of the exhibition

83 Lantana Road Cape Woolamai Mob. 0408 341 898 Email. dianab@waterfront.net.au www.shearwaterstudio.com.au

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www.coastmagazine.net

21 Second Ave, Cape Woolamai

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g estudio c kgallery o

coast directory

New & Gently Used Quality Goods

acupuncture traditional chinese medicine naturopathy bowen therapy

14 Graham St, Wonthaggi - PH 5672 2692 27 Bair St, Leongatha - PH 5662 5644 www.naturalmedicinecentre.net.au or find us facebook johng@naturalmedicinecentre.net.au

31 Main Street Foster Ph: 5682 1381 Weekdays 10am-5pm Sat 9:30am-4pm Sun 10am-4pm Open everyday except Christmas Day

RAMALAMA BOOKS Gippslands largest range of 2nd hand books for all booklovers.

Established for over 30 years

www.coastmagazine.net

Stocking a comprehensive range of health care & food products.

Qualified skin care specialist available for consultation.

1 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi

3995

Ph: 03 5672 4790 coast 190

Ramalama_v2.indd 1

117 Graham St, Wonthaggi 25/11/11 1:06 PM

Ph. 5672 2685

Overnight, Weekly Holiday Accomodation 3 Park Pde Rd, Cape Paterson

Marianna Hinch

hinchs5@bigpond.com 0417 106 781 or 03 5674 8343

Bunurong Environment Centre

NOT JUST FOR GROWN UPS

explore … discover … have FUN!

Café provides light snacks and great coffee.

Visit our website to view our Online Shop.

We ship merchandise all over Australia and overseas.

(03) 5956 6400 www.vietnamvetsmuseum.org 25 Veterans Drive, Newhaven

VietnamVets1.indd 1

21/11/11 4:15 PM

Gift & Book Shop Extensive range of environmental books, goods and Aboriginal crafts Shell Museum Over 6,000 specimens from around the world Coastal and Dinosaur Display Learn about fascinating Marine Biology and Palaeontology discoveries Education Centre and Programs School and Holiday Activities, call us for details.

Shop Open: Friday - Monday, 10 am - 4 pm During school & public holidays, 10 am - 4 pm each day Cnr The Esplanade & Ramsay Blvd, Inverloch 5674 3738 www.sgcs.org.au

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www.coastmagazine.net

NVVM is an award winning museum recognized nationally for its dedication to the preservation and presentation of the story of all Vietnam veterans in Australia’s longest war.

coast directory

The Cape Beach House

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SUNDAY

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

Freshest local seafood on the Island Local fresh produce with seafood straight from the boat, Island grazed beef and lamb and in-house bakery. Accommodation available.

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

Closed Sunday 18 & 25 December only.

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

For more information call Jane on 0417 142 478

Ph (03) 5952 6226

HILLIES MEATS

More than just a butcher . . .

SAGE HE SAU LIES T

HIL

KING!

inner!

title w State

www.coastmagazine.net

Extensive range of gourmet products, meats - chemical & hormone free, seafood, wines and cheeses.

Bass Coast SuperPages 2011 Business of the Year, Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Award, Retailer of the Year, Business Excellence, State Sausage King & Gippsland Retailer Finalist

119 Marine Pde, San Remo

Mallani Wines.indd 1

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4/2/10 3:16:37 PM

5678 5489

“FUEL BY THE TANK OR TANKER FULL” LEONGATHA DEPOT

Transforming you for Success in all areas of your amazing life.

PH.

03 5662 2217

A/H

0418 595 346

You Are Amazing!

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

Scott Brelsford - 0419 182 235 or yhp@mail.com

www.yourhiddenpotential.com.au

COWES

www.evanspetroleum.com.au

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www.coastmagazine.net

I’ll encourage you to live your life....

On Your Terms

coast directory

Distributors for South Gippsland

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

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directory Accommodation

Gardens & Green Living

Prom Country 10 & 68 Bear Gully Coastal Cottages 176 Cape Beach House 191 RACV Resort 24 Silverwater Resort

Arborzone 186 Compass Pools 196 Crossover Cycles 123 Island Garden Supplies - Donmix 164 Island Landscape & Design 186 James Ross Landscape & Design 186 Mojo Contacting 176 New World Solar Solutions 186 Pristine Pools 169 Ready Set Grow 132 Sun Plus Solar 166 Wilson Botanic Park 91

Antiques L&J Tuddin Antique & Décor 188

Artist & Galleries Anita Stepano Ross 33 Arty Farty Sculpture Studio 188 Celia Rosser 43 Cheryl Petersen Galleries 55 Deb Halpern 50 Gecko Studio Gallery 188 Gooseneck Pottery 69 Inverloch Gallery 188 Leongatha Art + Craft Society 129 Manyung Gallery 38 Mc Clelland Gallery 58 Meeniyan Art Gallery 69 Mosaics by the Bay 188 Shearwater Studios 188

Automotive Imoto 193 Edneys 75 Lexus of Brighton 91

Builders, Architects, Designers Archiblox 156 Beaumont Concepts 146 Bass Coast Builders 156 Beachouse Constructions 157 Darren Brown Design 151 Bluecoast Builders 184 Home Design & Construction 140 Langford Jones 152 Metricon 142 New Dimension Homes 144 Nott Architecture 152 Tom Wilson 184 SJD Homes 148

Entertainment Kongwak Market 192 Baker Boys 120 Cowes Night Market 76 Inverloch Food & Wine Festival 191 Mossvale Music Festival 19 Phillip Island Food & Wine Fest. 62 Pyramid Rock Festival 33 Ramalama Bookstore 190 Sculpture in the Vines 188 Turn the Page 124

Fashion Crocs 97 Eve Fashion 132 Haze 123 Oyako Living 120 Sketa 13 So! Me! 76

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Government Bass Coast Shire Council 137 South Gippsland Shire 64 Westernport Water 136

Hair, Health & Beauty Amcal Chemist Cowes 46 Bass Coast Regional Health 124 Cowes Doctors 95 Ella Bache Mordialloc 89 Nautral Medicine Centre 190 Mt Eliza Optical 96 San Remo Pharmacy 80 Sth Gippsland Family Health 131 Upbeet Health Foods 80 Wonthaggi Health & Ecology 190 YMCA 135

Homewares & Interiors Amada Inverloch 187 Finding the Grain 158 Henriettas 112 Invisage 187 Linton la Fontaine, Mt Eliza 187 Love Paris 88 Mordialloc Florist 88 Main St Revelations 190 Mookah Studios 187 Pantai Living132 Rainbows at Cowes 135 South Coast Furnishings 164 Southern Bazaar 29

Jewellery Denis A Hawkins 129 Goldsmiths Gallery 50 Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery 14 Studio 41 126

Professional Services Gippsland Building Approvals 168 Meehan Design 96 Moonya 133 Lens to Life 189 Your Hidden Potential 193

Property & Retirement Alex Scott, Phillip Island 195 Alex Scott, Inverloch 180 Cape Paterson Eco Village 8 FKP Shearwater 4

Stockdale & Leggo Phillip Island 177 Parklands 174 Harcourts - Woolworths 172 San Remo Realty 177 Seagrove Estate 2 The Mews 183

Restaurants, Cafes & Produce Archies on the Creek 6 Aherns 106 Carmies Kitchen 108 Churchill Island Café 108 Claypot Curry House 104 Coast Restaurant and Bar 111 Old Dalyston Deli 110 Esplanade Hotel 102 Harry’s on the Esplanade192 Henriettas 112 Hillies Meats 192 Infused 104 La Provincia 110 Mordialloc Cellar Door 89 The Welshpool Hotel 112 Red Elk Café 113 Upbeet Health Foods 80 Wonthaggi Health & Ecology 190

Tourism & Travel Amaze n Things 60 Bunurong Environment Centre 191 Coal Creek 75 Destination Phillip Island 62 Island Surfboards 46 Mordialloc Traders 87 Mordy Surf 90 Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 66 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit 64 Phillip Island Nature Parks 65 Pompei’s Marine 90 Rod Bendings World of Fishing 82 Vietnam Vets Museum 191 Wonthaggi State Coal Mine 72

Trades & Hardware Alu Fab 185 Bass Coast Refrigeration 168 Coastal Refrigeration 166 Evan’s Petroleum 193 Island Energy 173 Metrix New Kitchens 185 Paint Place 185 Sunscape Eelectrical 170 Van Steensels Timbers 185 Woodwork Solutions 163

Stockists Balnarring Newsagent Bass General Store Beaumaris News Berwick Newsagency Blairgowrie Newsagency Black Rock Newsagency Corinella General Store Coronet Bay General Store Cape Woolamai Bottlo Cowes Mobil Cowes Newsagent Cranbourne Newsagency Daylston General Store Dumbalk Store Fish Creek Newsagency Fish Creek BP Flinders General Store Foster Newsagent Frankston Newsagency Grantville Newsagent Hampton Newsagency Hastings Newsagency Inverloch BP Inverloch Newsagent Inverloch Foodworks Kilcunda General Store Koonwarra Store Koo Wee Rup News Korumburra Newsagent Lang Lang News Leongatha Newsagent Loch - Hard Loch Cafe Meeniyan Newsagent Mirboo North Newsagent Middle Brighton News Mornington Newsagent Mt Martha Newsagent Mt Eliza Newsagency Newhaven Newsagency Pakenham Newsagency Pearcedale Newsagency Rhyll General Store Silverleaves General Store Newhaven Newsagent Smiths Beach Store Red Hill General Store Sandringham Newsagency Sandy Point General Store San Remo Foodworks San Remo Newsagent San Remo - Freedom Fuels Sorrento Newsagency Tarwin Lower Supermarket Tooradin Newsagent Tyabb Newsagency Venus Bay Store Ventnor Store Wilsons Prom - Tidal River Store Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi Ritchies IGA Wonthaggi - Mezza Luna Cafe Wonthaggi BP Yanakie Store

Wineries Basia Mille 114 Bass River Winery 114 Mallani Wines 192 Phillip Island Vineyard 116 Purple Hen 116 Waratah Hills Vineyard 118

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