Coast Magazine Spring 2006 by Coast Media Pty Ltd

coast Phillip Island to the Prom

Coastal living at its best! body beautiful the art of body painting

summer starters celebrate spring at local vineyards surfing life the surf is pumping at express AUS $2.50 (inc GST)

edition 4 Spring 2006

A magazine for living, relaxing & enjoying life by the coast SPRING FINAL.indd 1

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arah Ashe

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We stock a great range of bikes We can custom fit you to your bike (with 6 months free service)

BIKE WORKSHOP . Major overhauls . Basic adjustments . Wheel building . Fork servicing . Hydraulic brakes

We carry Spy, Oakley & Euro sunglasses. Netti, Fox, Mace and Oakley riding apparel. Shimano & Sram components.

. SCOTT . Norco . GT . Mongoose . Road, mountain, comfort, hybrid and BMX bikes . Electric bicycles & tricycles . Bike hire/free maps & tours Ride On Bikes, 2/17 The Esplanade, Cowes Phone (03) 5952 2533 Email. info@rideonbikes.com.au Website. www.rideonbikes.com.au

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22/8/06 8:18:16 PM

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40 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven Phone 03 5956 6900 PIAA member . CAH groomers

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22/8/06 8:18:39 PM

contents &features

regulars 10

Coast life Check out what locals are up to around the coastline

2 (coast) people Leila May and Sue Keogh ‘Unplugged’

Around town A snapshot of coastal life

15 minutes of fame Father Jacob Thadathill

Arts & Events guide Get out there and do something!

Coastal secrets - San Remo (pg 34) & Leongatha (pg 54) exposed

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

Dine out Lip smacking Cafe Lugano

Love that coffee Terry Valastro from Mezza Luna speaks about his enduring love affair with ‘Sophia’

My favorite Recipe Brent Davis from Cafe Tsunami shares a delicious dessert

Getaway Escape to Bear Gully at Cape Liptrap

Coast property A BRAND NEW lifestyle property guide

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features A surfing nature 19 Peter Baird talks of his love of surfing and nature Body painter Alejandrina de La Rosa shows off her body art

A colorful life 27 Artist Diana Bannister shares her colorful art Lolly legs 28 Legend - Maria Jackson, shows her softer side Artist profile 31 The whimsical work of Beryl King Naturally native 32 The wonders of native gardening Summer Starters 45 Celebrate the start of summer in vineyards of the region Health & Beauty 49 Start working out for that svelt summer body

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Yo u k i ’ s

on Phillip Island Luxurious waterfront accommodation

Picture yourself indulging in a 5 star hotel with all of the warmth and personal hospitality of a B&B. Youkis on Phillip Island offers you this rare combination in a truly romantic setting. In just 90 minutes from Melbourne, you can be relaxing on the waterfront in the seaside village of Rhyll with all of Phillip Island’s fabulous attractions at your doorstep. Youkis’ oriental themed accommodation options are all about opulence and romance, perfect for special occasions and creating lifelong memories.

ouki’s on Phillip Island

Your hosts; Peter and Sayuri Innes Ph: 03 5956 9022 Fax: 03 5956 9028 9 Beach Rd, Rhyll, Phillip Island, Vic. 3923 Em:bookings@youkisonphillipisland.com www.youkisonphillipisland.com

Secret Scrappers Business

Come and experience lake ﬁshing, indoor ﬁshing in the spectacular rainforest pool, or simply enjoy the fresh locally harvested trout and yabbies at the Rhyll Fishing Park.

www.rhyllﬁshingpark.com.au

OPEN EVERYDAY (closed Wed & Sun till the 1st Nov)

Scrapbooking Card making Workshops Social nights Birthday parties School holiday activities Kerry Mattsson 71 Phillip Island Road, San Remo Tel. 03 5678 5571 Fax. 03 5678 5573 secretscrappersbusiness@hotmail.com

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36 Rhyll-Newhaven Rd, Rhyll, Phillip Island. Ph. 03 5956 9255 Fax. 03 5956 9266 info@rhyllﬁshingpark.com.au

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Editorial Hello Spring! Pssssssssttttttttt! We’ve got a secret. With all the new growth of spring and all, we’d like to let you know that we have a brand new section in Coast magazine . . . more about that later. Have you noticed the air is starting to get just a little bit warmer, flowers are starting to bloom and the birds are singing? Even the sun seems a little brighter, and the sky is bluer? I love this time of year. The days are starting to get longer as we make a slow march towards summer. In this edition, you are invited to join the vignerons of Bass Coast and the South Gippsland region, to kick off the spring season with a bang! (do I hear the sound of corks popping?) Fourteen wineries are opening their doors for the Melbourne Cup weekend with lots of fun and festivities planned. Local musicians, artworks, gourmet food (and just a couple of drops of fine wine), will all be on the menu – don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate! Check it out on page 45. Okay, okay. We can’t help ourselves. The cat is outta the bag! The Coast team is very excited to announce the launch of COAST PROPERTY - a brand new, stylish, property and building guide. We look forward to bringing you the best properties, builders and designers of the region. We’ve shown you how fabulous the coast is. Now you have the opportunity to live the dream, with a beautiful home, or holiday home by the coast. Start dreaming on page 57. While were on the subject of secrets, we’re often asked if Coast is owned by a media corporation (or council funded at the very least). We are proud to answer ‘NO’ on both counts. Just between you and me, we are a small passionate team, who are dedicated to bringing you the very best of this region. We live here, we love it – and we hope you love it too! Till summer. . . Maria PS: If you love Coast magazine, spread the word – tell a friend, or a friend of a friend!

PPS: Check out the fabulous Coast web site at www.phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au Editor Sub editing Words Photography Design Sales/Marketing

Maria Reed Alison Hill, Anne Roussac-Hoyne Maria Reed, Lisa Valastro, Alison Hill Warren Reed, Maria Reed Positive Exposure Photography 0414 753 739 Maria Reed Tatia Weston 0432273107 For advertising enquiries please call Tatia or log onto our web site www.phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au to discover all the benefits of advertising Phillip Island to the Prom coast

PO Box 104, San Remo, Victoria 3925 Phone (03) 59 566 369 Fax (03) 59 566 369 Advertising ) Email info@phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au Web www.phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au Phillip Island to the Prom Coast Magazine © published by M & W Reed T/A Phillip Island to the Prom Coast. 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.

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Where can I get my own copy of Coast?

Bass General Store Cape Woolamai Mini Mart - Phillip Island Cowes Newsagent - Phillip Island Cowes IGA Supermarket - Phillip Island Cowes West General Store - Phillip Island Cowes Mobil - Phillip Island COAST Dalyston General Store Fish Creek Newsagency MAGAZINE, Foster Newsagent A BEAUTIFUL Foster Foodworks Grantville Newsagent FULL COLOR Inverloch Newsagent Inverloch Foodworks QUARTERLY Inverloch Mobil PUBLICATION IS Kilcunda - Killy Cafe Koonwarra Foodstore AVAILABLE FOR Korumburra Newsagent $2.50 AT THE Leongatha Newsagent Loch - Hard Loch cafe FOLLOWING Meeniyan Newsagent Meeniyan - Watson’s cafe OUTLETS Newhaven IGA Supermarket - Phillip Island Rhyll General Store - Phillip Island San Remo Supermarket San Remo Newsagent Silverleaves General Store - Phillip Island Smiths Beach Store Tarwin Lower Supermarket Tooradin Newsagent Ventnor Store - Phillip Island Can’t get to the Wonthaggi Newsagent Wonthaggi IGA shops? Don’t Wonthaggi Mobil forget - YOU CAN Venus Bay Store Yanakie Store SUBSCRIBE. Check

out page 22 .

23/8/06 10:17:42 PM

coastviews contemporary home solutions

We have received hundreds more emails and letters of support from Coast readers. Lets blow our trumpet!

Furniture & Homewares Carpet & Flooring Window Coverings Bedding & Manchester

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What a publication! I have viewed both of your editions of ‘Coast’ magazine and I am impressed. After residing in Inverloch on and off for the last 10 years I have finally seen a publication that truly represents the beauty and character of the regions’ people and natural surrounds. You have captured the essence of South East Gippsland. Thanks again for a great publication. James Archibald via email I picked up your magazine at Meeniyan Newsagent. I really enjoyed your stories about the characters from our Gippsland Coast, and I loved the photos. They are all exceptional. I have had the privilege of meeting “Tex” and it was interesting to hear his background and terrific view on life. Keep up the good work! Jenny O’Sullivan via email Tarwin Lower Just writing to say that we really enjoy your magazine. We have a holiday house in Cape Paterson and visit regularly. A suggestion to keep people happy and coming back - opening times in advertisements. Once again a great magazine. Merril Bolton Killester Catholic College via email Melbourne What a beauty! Thanks Coast for creating a magazine that truly reflects this area. I love the stories and photos - I even found myself pouring over the ads. I can’t wait to try out all the restaurants and wineries I didn’t know existed. Francis McKinley via email I am writing to compliment you on your magazine. It is a wonderfully tasteful and informative read, beautiful photography - and local which I love. Having a history in design and now a new found career in photography, I can fully appreciate the package that is COAST. Lachlan Moore via email North Fitzroy I was in Kilcunda overnight on Friday night and saw your latest edition in the Kilcunda café on

Saturday. It looks really great. Once again you have achieved a really high standard, and it has its own unique, attractive look. Susan Windmiller via email Cheltenham Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou, Coast! You’ve got a reader for life. I have to say it is one of the most beautiful publications I have seen. My subscription cheque is in the mail. Jenny Miles, Brighton via email My wife was recently on a business trip to your area and brought home your magazine. Having once published a high quality magazine/ directory I know how much hard work goes into a publication such as yours. All I can say is VERY NICE! I hope it continues to be very successful ... I’m sure it will. Keith Brinsley via email Ringwood Just a note to say congratulations on your second issue of Coast. I meant to write after the first issue but the second issue is even better. Sensational photos, sensational design and stories. Well done. Catherine Watson via email Wonthaggi Congratulations to you and your team for creating such a beautiful publication. It is both visually and informatively a true delight. We keenly look forward to future editions. Linda and Garry Gale via email Just wanted to congratulate you on a fabulous initiative. It looks wonderful! Lovely stories! The Bass Coast has never looked so good. Congratulations! Gill Heal via email Congratulations on a great magazine. Great to see someone at last showing how beautiful our island and district really is. We moved to San Remo nearly 5 years ago to be near family and have made so many new friends we have never regretted it for a moment. Look forward to the next edition. Barbara Payne via email San Remo

We love to hear from our readers. Have your say (about anything) in our regular Coast column. Email info@ phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au or snail mail to Coast Magazine - Coast views, PO Box 104, San Remo 3925.

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22/8/06 8:19:49 PM

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coastchat

French Island has been suggested (among other areas) as a possible nuclear waste site. What do you think of nuclear energy as a proposed alternative energy source?

Morgan O’Neill

Marilyn Treloar

Daniel Strachan

Anna de Bondt

Think of Chernobyl – effectively the area is dead. Nuclear waste takes up to 50 years to break down. Even then, it may still be radioactive. I saw a science program recently about a boat that goes out to sea to capture wave energy. If we can harness wave, wind and solar energy, these options would be much safer. I’ve never been to French Island, but I think nuclear waste wouldn’t be good for the trees or wildlife. Maybe they could store it under the factory where it is produced.

I don’t really know enough about it. I am not fully aware of the pro’s and con’s. Friends in Europe have tried to convince me that it isn’t so bad, but I don’t know. It would be a shame to use French Island as a dumping ground. I suppose waste is like rubbish, and you need to store rubbish somewhere – but I still remember Chernobyl, and how shocking that was.

I think it is overlooking the main problem - that we need to find a renewable energy source. Using nuclear energy is just sweeping the problem under the carpet, and later on we have to deal with the issue of waste. Solar and wind power should be explored as possible alternatives. French Island as a waste site? I don’t think Kylie Minogue would be happy with that – didn’t she just buy land there? I don’t think it is a suitable location for it. It doesn’t seem sensible.

Nuclear energy could be a good proposal, but it has to be explored – perhaps by a nationwide forum. Scientists should judge, not the layman. If it is a clean source of energy, and it is safe, then I think it would be okay. I can’t see French Island as a waste site – I mean, how accessible is it? We have so much land in Australia that we could store the waste somewhere – as long as the proper studies are undertaken.

Cape Woolamai

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Venus Bay

Mirboo North

Leongatha

coast 9 22/8/06 8:20:09 PM

coastlife

spring

coast arts & music festival

After the overwhelming success of the Churchill Island Art Market (off Phillip Island), organisers have decided to reinvent the market into a Summer Festival of Art, Music and fun! Blues rock guitar legend Geoﬀ Achison (and the soul diggers) will be the headline act for the January 14 festival. Performing arts, fabulous food and wine, and quality art will be on offer, as well as a huge range of activities for the kids to enjoy. For more details phone Sian Adnam on 0418 519 181

walktall

festivalfun

Art on the cape presents

Come for a walk! is a brand new book that explores the great walks on offer at Phillip Island. A colloborative community project, the book showcases a variety of walks for different age levels and fitness. All proceeds of sales are given to local not-for-profit environmental and historical organisations. What are you waiting for? Slip on your walking shoes, grab a copy, and go for a walk!

Please note: Markets from Sept - December 2006 are cancelled

getcreative Have a creative itch that needs to be scratched? Artist John Adams conducts classes in watercolor, acrylic and gouache at the Phillip Island community learning centre. Learn different techniques and work from sketches to create light, space and atmosphere. For enquiries call PICAL on 5952 1131

Spring and spring fashions go hand in hand. For the latest looks check out Pomegranate Clothing and Influence on Dusk in Leongatha - the girls are sure to have you looking your ‘racing’ best. For your crowning glory, top it with a stylish hat. This little number was created by Karen from Kudos, San Remo.

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stupa. . endous The Gyuto Monks visited Inverloch recently to promote an awareness of Tibetan culture and advance world peace. They completed a Stupa, which is a classic form of Tibetan Art that brings peace and wellbeing to the community, and acts as a reminder for us to slow down, smile and breathe. The Stupa contains thousands of prayers, special herbs and medicines from the Dalai Lama. Community and personal possessions are also placed within the Stupa, all contained within to promote world peace.

kiteboarding

Kiteboarder Damien McKay died tragically on the 29th of November 2005, whilst enjoying his favorite sport at Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island. The Damien McKay Memorial Kite Boarding event has been organised in part by his wife Leah McKay. The event will highlight the skill and athleticism of kite boarders and aims to create a fun environment for participants and spectators. The organisers want to promote safety, and show that this extreme sport can be safe if the right equipment and good practices are employed. Share the spirit and take time to remember a young man, who passed away doing something he loved. November 18 & 19 Phillip Island.

Coronet Bay Unplugged Pack your tambourine and head on down to the Coronet Bay Hall on the first Saturday of every month for a night jammed full of musical talent. Everyone is welcome to perform their talents with an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;open mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; format. Rock, blues, jazz, folk, country and instrumental pieces are some of the performances featured to date. No talent? Come along and enjoy a cuppa, a chat, and a bucket load of raw talent. Entry is by gold coin donation and seating is 7.30pm for an 8pm start.

www.phillipislandkitesurfing.com/contact.htm

summerstarters Get out amongst the vines and enjoy a bounty of delectable wines and food on offer. With a selection of art and music at participating wineries, Summer Starters, Nov 4 & 5, is a great event to explore the wineries of Bass and Southern Gippsland For more information Call Liz Rushen on 03 5683 2441 curl design 03 5952 5333 coast 11

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Looking for a great brew? The newly opened HARD LOCH CAFE at 10 Smith Street in Loch oﬀers enticing organic coﬀee and fine food from Thursday to Tuesday.

Check it out!

what’snew around your coast

Phillip Island Getaway

This unique and quirky beach Art studio is a mere 300 meters from the spectacular Colonnades surf beach, boasting some of the Island’s most stunning walks. This two bedroom , double story hideaway is attached to the popular Arty Farty Sculpture Studio which runs classes in ceramic design and sculpture during the holiday periods as well as private sessions for those wishing for a creative weekend. For more details contact Sian on 041 5191 1

Gallery

Kongwak

hotel

Housed in an old general store, this fabulous 1950’s building has been transformed into an exceptional gallery. New curator, Jan Barton -Hillyard is excited to promote new artists, with regular exhibitions and occasional workshops. Drop in for a visual feast for the eyes, a coffee and a chat. Open from Thursday to Sunday 104, and public holidays. Definitely worth a visit. Kongwak Gallery, Wonthaggi/Korumburra Rd, Kongwak. Phone 040 409 449

The Jetty has undergone a transformation with a new bar and a new name. It’s called ‘Hotel’ ,and it’s hot! Get on your dancing shoes and head on down to the Esplanade, Cowes, Phillip Island on Friday & Saturday nights!

Rhyll Fishing Experience

The fish are so fresh they are literally jumping out of the ponds onto your plate. Need some time out? Why not drop a line at the Rhyll fishing park & relax while catching your own dinner? Don’t want to catch your own? Relax and have a coffee while Paul catches one for you! Rhyll Fishing Park, 36 Rhyll-Newhaven Rd Victoria. Contact Paul Mannix on Phone 5956 9255

furniture

fabulous

OPEN THURS - SUNDAY

Is your house in need of a Spring face lift? If so, why not visit Southern Bazaar & Eclecteca - two brand new businesses located in a huge warehouse full of funky furniture and home wares. Retro and vintage furniture and collectables, new and used traditional furniture and recycled brand name clothing are just a few of the treasures waiting to be unearthed. Cate & Wendy look forward to seeing you at 42 Cashin Street Inverloch.

the studio

San Remo has a brand new Internet cafe. Email friends around the world while enjoying great coffee, ice cream and snacks. Shop 8, 93 Marine Parade, San Remo.

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22/8/06 8:21:12 PM

coast people

words Maria Reed photo Warren Reed

Leila May and Sue Keogh are the best of friends, and the unofficial organisers of ‘Unplugged’ at Coronet Bay each month. They help organise a night of music, singing, and poetry where anyone is welcome to show up and perform. They laugh, “We just love it so much, we don’t care whether two – or two hundred people show up.” They talk about their friendship, pop stars, and a shared passion for music. Leila: “I remember seeing a lady with long hair and an Akubra hat standing in her driveway, and I used to wonder about her, and why she was standing in the driveway waiting - that’s my earliest memory of her. I found out later that she would be waiting for her daughter’s school bus to arrive. The first time I met Sue was at my son’s kinder. I saw her but I didn’t make the connection that she was the lady in ‘the hat’. I liked her straight away and I trusted her enough to bring my son home from kinder, which was a big thing for me at the time. We ended up sharing the kinder run, and that’s how we became friends. We have a very close relationship. I don’t have any sisters. Sue has five - and I only have one brother. For most of our friendship we were unaware that we shared a passion for music. I saw an ad for ‘Pop Stars school’ at Wonthaggi, and I went along as I’d always loved singing. I don’t think I’d even told Sue about it until after I’d gone. She was really interested and asked me all these questions about it. That’s when Sue told me that she’d always had this dream to be in a band. We knew we loved the same music – but this was a lovely surprise. I dragged her along to Pop Stars, and it just blossomed from there. I think we are the same in many ways, and where we are different – we complement each other. Sue is a calmer, quieter sort of person than me. It’s really hard for me to put into words, but there is a balance. I might be a bit more out there, but we balance each other. Like any relationship, it has its ups and downs, but the music has really bought us closer. We never fight. We are like-minded and share the same ideals. We are different, but we get on so well. If you were to put us in a pot and make a cake, you’d have the perfect recipe – or the right ingredients if you like.”

Sue: “I remember Leila being my saviour in a way. I was a young mum with kids, and to meet another mum, and one that I got on with so well, was a lovely surprise. I’ve lived in Coronet Bay for 20 years and when I met Leila I felt as if I’d found a kindred spirit. Our relationship just blossomed. I went along with Leila to this Pop Stars thing, and though we had a lot of fun, after a while we decided it wasn’t quite our cup of tea. We wanted to do a bit more folk music. We went to a singing teacher and she told us that we harmonised really well together. My husband joined in with his guitar, and now the three of us have a band called ‘Treble Bell.’ We try to get together when we can, but it can be hard at times because I’ve got four children and Leila has two. Trying to coordinate a family with singing can be hard. We wrote a song together for the Hinterlands project, which was all about telling the stories of life as a pioneer in the Gippsland area. The song was called, ‘Women of the South,’ and we have performed this song around the area. I love the fact that Leila and I seem to be on the same wavelength on just about anything. I hear a song, and I think straightaway, ‘Leila’s going to love that’ – and she does. We even share the same clothes. I’ve got five sisters myself, but I’ve never really had as strong a relationship with them, like I do with Leila. I moved away from my family – so we kind of feel like we’re sisters now. We share the same thoughts; I even know from a text message if she’s not feeling quite right. We’ve never had a fight. I’d say we have the ideal friendship.” C

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coast 13 22/8/06 8:21:18 PM

If you would like to appear in Coast’s ‘around town’ page, you can email your photo’s to info@phillipislandtothepromcoast.com.au (marked ‘around town’)

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22/8/06 8:22:08 PM

what’s goin’ on around your place

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aroundtown

22/8/06 8:22:51 PM

The Oriental Touch

Garden & Gift Gallery

For gifts with meaning

S.E.A.Stonemasonry 0438 488 407 8 Vista Drive, Cape Woolamai Victoria 3925 Mobile: 0408 575 452 Fax: (03) 5678 8406

The Concourse, COWES 3922 Fax: 613 59523770 Mob: 0418 523248 Email: cosier@waterfront.net.au ABN. 24 815 392 869

THE STUDIO Internet & Ice Cream Cafe

o Confectionery o Specialty & novelty cakes o Icecream cakes wholesale/retail o Award winning icecream o Homemade cookies o Smoothies o Jasper and Fair Trade coffee o Chai - Lattes o INTERNET CAFE o Photocopying

Shop 8/93 Marine Pde, San Remo 56785332 coast 16

The studio.indd 1

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Eclecteca & Southern Bazaar

email: kushkushtrading@yahoo.com.au

Open Thurs - Sunday les o b r t a Re ollect & ge nd c a t . Vin iture a d furn & Use me w a e n . N iture rand furn ycled b c . Re hing clot Cate Anderson 0400 498 804 Wendy White 0409 234 482

42 Cashin Street, Inverloch

24/8/06 11:42:08 AM

24/8/06 11:49:26 AM

Father Jacob Thadathill

fifteenminutesof fame

Father Jacob Thadathill is the new parish priest at St Joseph’s Parish in Wonthaggi. He has worked as a preacher in India for over 17 years, and spent several years as a priest in South Africa during the Nelson Mandela years. Father Jacob says of Mandela, “He is a very tolerant human being, and I believe he is the greatest living man at this current time.” We talk to him about life, religion and tolerance – and his love of art house movies. What are your impressions of the Bass Coast and its people? I have been living in Wonthaggi for two months and the people I have met are warm, friendly and loving. The scenery is beautiful – such panoramic views. I drove to Foster the other day and stopped at a lookout on the way that looked over the hills and mountains of the Prom – it was unearthly and beautiful. I find Australian people very friendly. They are open to other nationalities. Although this is a country with an enormous number of foreigners, there seems to be no overt racism.”

What was life like for you growing up in India? I had a joyous childhood. I was one of five children – three boys and two girls. We had a peaceful life, co-existing with different religions.

Your life as a parish priest in Wonthaggi must be very demanding of your time. What do you like to do in your leisure time? I love art house movies, poetry, music and art. When I have time I go and see a movie at the Nova (Melb). My favourite film would have to be Citizen Kane. I play table tennis and basketball. I used to paint, and I won a competition among the priests in India with my poetry.

What makes you sad? Religious, social and political fundamentalism. War, strife and racism all stem from fundamentalism. I am optimistic, however, that ultimately good will prevail and the world will progress.

What does religion mean to you? Religion is a relationship. It is having interpersonal relationships with God and your fellow human beings. I am fascinated by religions. Hinduism, Islam, and Catholicism – I take an interest in all religions. The Church is not an end in itself. I believe every religion is just a pointer, and you have to go beyond the realities of religion itself and look for love and tolerance. I have an interest in philosophy and the great Indian philosophers. What would you say is your personal philosophy? I would say the ultimate yardstick of life is love. Even people who have no religion can co-exist.

What makes you happy? Forward thinking. Being open to moving forward, and moving with the times, having an honest view of life. If people can work together and live in harmony as brothers and sisters, that makes me happy.

Are you optimistic about the world? Yes. I think that most people are good. The minority will take the world forward. We must be open, and have the sparks of good people to move forward. Life is a challenge. We all have to face risks and be open to them – otherwise there is no life at all. What is your next aim, or goal in life? I would like to get young people in the area involved. The Church has become irrelevant to young people and we would like to start a youth program at St Joseph’s. We have earmarked a Saturday, once a month, just for kids – to bring young people together in a friendly place where they can listen to music and have fun. It’s all about bringing people together in a caring and harmonious environment. C coast 17

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surferproﬁle

surfi ng nature words & photo Maria Reed

“The first time I really learnt to surf was at Smiths beach in the middle of winter,” recalls Peter Baird. “I was twelve years old, and the uniform of the day was a woollen jumper and a pair of board shorts.” While the lack of a winter wet suit would make most surfers’ toes curl, Peter shrugs, “it didn’t bother me at all. I just remember being so attracted to surfing from the very beginning – the cold didn’t matter.” Peter has had a long and enduring love affair with the ocean. His family has been coming to the Island since before he was born. “My father first came here surfing in 1954. It wasn’t long after the war and they used to body surf at the point at Summerlands,” he says. “They had no flippers or anything. Even in winter they went out in their speedos. They bred ‘em tough in those days.” As a child the family had to keep a close eye on Peter, as he wouldn’t stay away from the water. “I’d just walk into the surf and keep on going until I disappeared,” he laughs. “I learnt how to body surf when I was five,” he says, and at seven, he was given his very own board, a ‘junior occa’ that was a moulded plastic version of a Malibu, about five feet long. A windy night saw the ‘occa’ take off and break into pieces, so from then on Peter got by on surf mats, body surfing or borrowing other people’s boards. “When I was twelve, I was given a real surfboard for my birthday - and that was a fair-dinkum-custommade fibreglass board,” he marvels. It was the mid 70’s, and the beginning of a lifelong passion. Surfing for Peter is more than just a physical activity. “I love the look of the ocean, and the smell of it. When you’re a surfer you come to understand the cycles and the rhythms of the ocean,” he says. “You learn to work with nature and that’s what surfing is all about.” Just by looking out the window he could tell which direction the wind was coming from, which way the swell was running and what the tide was doing. “The texture of the ocean differs every day and the light differs with each seasons; it’s forever changing.” Most surfers have a deep understanding of nature and the elements that surround them, whether or not they articulate it. “Over the years, you develop this knowledge by being out there in it - looking and observing, and just interacting with it.” Surfers carry a huge amount of unconscious knowledge, and they are constantly positioning themselves and choosing how and where to surf a wave by their understanding of the mechanics of the ocean. Peter lives with his partner Nicky on the rugged coastline of Surf Beach. They are artists, composers, singers and musicians in their own right, and they both share a love of the ocean. Peter says, “The southern ocean has this look about it, because the sun continued over page. . . coast 19 SPRING FINAL.indd 19

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is always in the north, so it is always shining onto the ocean. It’s just so alive.” Being in tune with the coastal landscape is very important to Peter. “The fact that you’re in this big living ocean, there’s all this sea life underneath, and a swell generated from thousands of miles away, it’s pretty mind blowing.” Competitive surfing has never really been important to Peter. “I had a brief crack at it when I was 16-1 years old,” he says. He won a scholastic contest, and the Australian Surfing Association sponsored his $40 train trip to Queensland. “That was my professional surfing career,” he laughs. “I’ve been so motivated just to be out there, to compete is irrelevant. It’s the love of the ocean, the feeling it gives me, its beauty and power that draws me.” Surfing has been a huge determining factor in Peter’s life. Career wise, it has dictated what he has chosen (or not chosen) to do as a job, where he lives, and the friendships he has made. Surfing attracts such a diverse group of people. “You get every profession, every sort of person, and you just can’t typecast people.” In Peter’s experience, surfing “unites people and it’s great because it doesn’t create aggression in kids. It’s physical, it’s tribal and it builds that communal, sharing thing.” When asked his favourite surfing spot, Peter says Express would have to be up there. “In the early days, my mate Jeff Nelson and I would surf Magic lands and Express.” He describes Express as ‘a magnet.’ “It’s got a reef that goes out to sea a long way, pulling the swell into a peak from miles out, and those outer reefs focus the swell into this big powerful energy in the middle. Then they come in and hit a shallow basalt reef, so the power is condensed there. It has a very powerful aura about it,” he says. Peter has broken his hip, put his teeth through his lip, and been knocked out a number of times at Express. So what’s the attraction? “It’s the power of it that attracts you. It’s dangerous - but it’s an attraction. And you feel it when you’re riding the waves; all this water is sucking up the face. I feel like I’m utilising nature’s energy for my own enjoyment,” he laughs. “The ocean provides me with so much joy. Even pro surfers, often the first thing they want to do when they return from a comp(etition) is to surf for enjoyment. How many tennis pros do you hear running back onto the court after a competition for sheer pleasure?” Point taken. And does this surfer ever take the ocean at his back door for granted? “Never!” he says. We are incredibly lucky to live this kind of lifestyle in Australia. It’s rare in the world to have the wealth, accessible beaches and recreational time. Peter reflects,” Surfing affects your whole lifestyle because you are working around tides and winds that don’t coincide with nine to five living.” Those addicted to it will shape their lifestyles around it. “You don’t engineer a lifestyle around golf. With surfing, when it’s on, it’s on - and if you miss it, it’s over. When the wind’s right, the tide’s right, the swell’s right – you’ve got a window of opportunity - and then it’s ‘all over red rover’. Surfers have an awareness of the planet. It’s this whole rhythmic, moving, fluid thing that’s going on. You’ve got to be plugged into it, otherwise you miss out.” C

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arts & events guide September 2006

November 2006

Artworks by Vyvyan Owen Date: 18/08/06 - 12/09/06 Venue: Coalfields Gallery Contact: Janice Orchard 0419 301 363

Damien McKay Memorial Kiteboarding Event Date: 18/11/06 - 19/11/06 Venue: Phillip Island Info: www.phillipislandkitesurfing.com

Stilletto Sisters - European Gypsy Tango Date: 02/09/06 8pm Venue: Grand Ridge Brewery, Mirboo North Contact: 03 5668 2701

Kongwak Market Every Sunday 10-2pm Korumburra/Wonthaggi Rd Kongwak, Victoria Contact: Jane 0417 142 478

Island Shapes - Exhibition by Diana Bannister Date: 15/09/06 - 10/10/06 Official opening Sept 17 at 2pm Venue: Coalfields Gallery, Wonthaggi Contact: 03 5672 4004 Kongwak Market Every Sunday/Every week 10-2pm Korumburra/Wonthaggi Rd Kongwak, Victoria Contact: Jane 0417 142 478

October 2006 Phillip Island Jazz Festival Date: 06/10/06 - 08/10/06 Venue: The Continental Hotel, Cowes Contact: Clive Budd 5678 8041 Red Lion Craft & Art GRAND RE OPENING Date: 14/10/06 3-5pm Venue: Red Lion, Sunderland Bay Contact: Marlene Fisher 5956 7006 Art Exhibition - Local artists Boyd Maddocks, Tracy Lewis and Jaci Williams Date: 20/10/06 - 22/10/06 Venue: Rotary Federation Art Gallery, Commercial Street, Korumburra Contact: Doug 5655 1809

Summer Starters winery event Date: 04/11/06 - 05/11/06 Venue: Wineries of Bass & South Gipps Contact: Liz Rushen 03 5664 3204 liz@waratahhills.com.au Pen, Ink and Fire - Exhibition by Roger Ward Date: Opening Nov. 25 at 2.30pm Venue: Red Lion, Sunderland Bay Contact: Marlene Fisher 5956 7006 Artists society of Phillip Island Exhibition Date: 04/11/06 - 07/11/06 Venue: Cowes Cultural Centre Contact: Jenny Broomhall 5952 6167 Bass Coast artists “Unframed show” Date: 04/11/06 - 06/11/06 Contact: Gloria Growse 03 5674 1817 Stony Creek races “Ladies Day” Date: 10/11/06 Venue: Racetrack, Stony Creek Contact: 03 5664 0099 stonycreek@countryracing.com.au Cowes Night Market Date: Saturday 25/11/06 5pm - 9pm Venue: Cowes Foreshore Contact: Anne-Marie Emanuele 5952 1131 coast 23

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Main picture: Covergirl Kelly shows off one of Alejandrinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designs Right: Alejandrina with her painted belly

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photos Maria & Warren Reed words Maria Reed

Imagine standing naked (bar a thin covering of gold body paint) on a busy street in Mexico City. You think you’ve become unrecognisable made up as an Egyptian goddess from the “Mummy” movie, except when friends drive past shouting your name and hooting their car horns. Hard to imagine? Not for local body and makeup artist Alejandrina de La Rosa. Ally, as she is warmly referred to her by friends, has had a colourful life prior to becoming a new mother and settling down at Phillip Island. “I met my husband Nathan when he was working as a teacher in Mexico City and I was doing makeup and body art for short films and commercials,” she says. The two connected instantly, becoming engaged and moving back to Nathan’s home of Australia. “For three years we lived in Melbourne, where I was doing fashion shows and body painting,” says Ally. When Nathan was offered a job as a teacher at Newhaven College, the pair jumped at the opportunity to move to the coast. Alejandrina has always had a passion for painting. “I used to work on paper , but then I started painting on people. I thought it was the same thing really – painting on canvas or on people, and that’s how I started out body painting. Just by experimenting.” Unlike a canvas, this form of art is temporary, and must be captured on film for prosperity. Ally says, “it’s so many hours of work, at least 5 -7 hours; you have to take a photo to remember it - and then, just as quickly, it’s gone.” Working a body like a canvas requires different skills and techniques. The body is contoured, so there’s lots of careful shading and lightening involved. Special paints are used to allow the skin to breathe. These have to be blended quickly as drying times are short, and special care taken with the application so it doesn’t crack. “It’s much harder to work on a body, as people move all the time. I’ve even had models faint as they don’t get to eat, having to stay still for so long.” Ally is conscious of this, and always has some chocolate or soft drink on hand to give her models an energy boost. Using models

as a canvas can prove to be tricky; they get tired, they complain, and they have to stop for toilet breaks. “It’s a great challenge to work with a body,” Ally laughs, “but a canvas never complains!” Ally doesn’t mind spending 15 hours on a body if she knows the result will be good, and will photograph well. “My favourite piece was an outfit I did for a model. “Black pants with sequins, a large silver belt, and a boob tube with flowers and straps completed the ensemble. I stuck a ribbon on the back of the straps, so it looked like it was falling from the painted straps. No one picked it up, and she had a really good body so she carried it off really well. She was totally naked, but when she went out to model it, nobody noticed she was naked because it was so realistic.” Living in a small coastal community means slim pickings as a body artist. Ally says, “I don’t get a lot of body-art work here, but makeup is very versatile, so I find myself doing a fair bit of wedding makeup.” As body painting is her passion, she relished the opportunity of painting her own pregnant belly. “I know some people get casts made of their bellies when they are pregnant, but I didn’t know where I would put it. I thought a photo of my pregnant belly with body paint would be more meaningful to me, and it is something I can show, because it’s art. I made a splash of colours in the background, and then painted flowers and a sun over the top. The middle of my belly was painted in warm colours, and changed to cooler tones as it fanned out. In a sense, I was showing the warmth and life growing inside me.” Alejandrina completed her belly masterpiece just a week prior to giving birth to her beautiful baby boy, Santiago. C

painter body

a Sch

C Ilon r neide

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ARTY FARTY SCULP TU RE STUDIO

Curator - Jan Barton-Hillyard

Kongwak Gallery Call in for a viewing, a coffee and a chat. Open Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, and public holidays. Featuring regular exhibitions and workshops

Call Sian on 0418519181 or 59566377

Works in clay by Beryl King

Whimsical sculptures, specialising in oxide ﬁnishes

OPEN STUDIO

Studio hours Sat & Sun 10am-4pm or by appointment 34-36 Ocean Reach Cape Woolamai 5956 7645

CRAFT AND ART

Wonthaggi Korumburra Rd, Kongwak p. 03 5657 4433 m. 0408 409 449 e. janhillyard@hotmail.com

ISLAND SHAPES SEPT 15 - OCT 10

RE-OPENING OCT 14 Come and see our new face with our Spring Mask Parade. Oct 14, 3-5pm.

14 The Esplanade Sunderland Bay Phillip Island (03) 5956 7006

OPEN Sat & Sun

Diana Bannister

A SOLO EXHIBITION BY PHILLIP ISLAND ARTIST DIANA BANNISTER

Classes available for adults and children in mosaic design & ceramic sculpture

Access Gallery @ Coalﬁelds Gallery

140 McKenzie St, Wonthaggi p. 03 5672 4004 Enquiries to Shearwater Studio’s 0408 341 898

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acolorfullife

artistprofile

words Maria Reed photo Warren Reed

Diana Bannister can’t sleep. She is having her first solo painting exhibition and she’s excited. “I’m so passionate about what I’m doing at the moment that there’s just not enough hours in a day,” she says with enthusiasm. She’s counting down the days until her exhibition at Coalfields Gallery in Wonthaggi. Artistry runs in Diana’s family, with her daughter being an accomplished artist with works exhibited in Sydney and Melbourne. Diana had always loved creating, and figured, “one day, when I’m old and retired, I might take up watercolours,” she laughs. Her daughter enrolled in a summer at school at Healesville, and persuaded her mother to join her, as “you always said you wanted to get into art.” She enjoyed the five day course so much she followed her teacher, Kayleen Stewart to Yellingbo for a further 12 months. As a budding artist, she began to study with John Adams on the Island, and remembers, “When I first started I believed everything had to be traditional, or look realistic, otherwise it wasn’t art.” Or so she thought. It seems that an ongoing theme in Diana’s training as an artist was pushing her out of her comfort zone – and pushing the boundaries of her artistic expression. “I studied painting and drawing with Vicky Nelson, and sculpture with Jo Jo Spook, and they both kept challenging me to find something within myself. After I went on a trip overseas I started using blocks of colour.” Her teacher at the time encouraged her to continue with this theme as she could see where the artist was heading, “even though I had no idea at that stage,” says Diana. Now it would be hard to imagine Diana Bannister as a realist artist. “As you can see, John Adams, an abstract artist and teacher, has had a bit of an influence on me,” she smiles. Her work is vibrant in colour, and uses bold shapes and forms to capture the everyday. She says, “Before I found my own unique style, everything was, well, a bit of a chore, but now I just love creating. I thoroughly enjoy what I’m doing.” Diana describes being lost in her work, and the adrenalin-like

endorphin rush she gets when things are flowing. We look at a portrait of Diana’s late mother which has a touch of Picasso’s influence. “I painted that picture of my mother not long after I lost her – capturing her hair in rollers, her pearls, mohair jumper, her flower gardens, her cups of tea. She was a bowling lady; it’s a bit of an abstract piece.” No doubt her mother would be flattered. Her current exhibition is all about Phillip Island. “We’ve been coming down to the Island for 36 years, and have lived here for 11 - we’ve never looked back,” she says. She loves the laid-back country feel of the Island, but also appreciates the energy and adrenalin rush that comes with the racing and summer crowds. “I was going to call the exhibition ‘Island Icons,’ but then I got to thinking, there are so many things I love about where I live - like the sand and pebbles on the beach. Even though I’m not into the cars and the bikes, it’s a great atmosphere they bring to the island,” she says. So what can people expect of Diana Bannister’s first exhibition? “Expect vibrant colourful paintings that will hit you in the face,” she says. She laughs, “some people’s first reaction (to her paintings) are ‘oh my god’ and others are ‘wow’. I’m hoping for the wow factor!” If you would like to see this vibrant exhibition and meet the artist, head on down to Coalfields Gallery in Wonthaggi on Sunday 17 September at 2pm for the official opening. The exhibition runs from September 15 to October 10. For more information call Coalfields Gallery on 03 5672 4004 or Diana Bannister at Shearwater Studios, Cape Woolamai on 0408 341 898. C

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words Lisa Valastro photo Maria Reed

The creases of her hands are black and her voice as rusty as an old chainsaw. She’s as rough and tough as corrugated iron. She swears like a trooper and works like a dog. “You b……s are late,” she bellows, her face forming an enormous grin, as she welcomes us through the gates of ‘Maria’s Recycling Emporium,’ together with a kiss on each of our cheeks.

That’s Maria Jackson for you, a well-known resident, almost an icon of Foster. Nearly everyone in and around the town knows or has heard of Maria. If you haven’t, just take a trip down Amey’s Track in Foster and you’re bound to hear the high flow of expletives amongst the broken toilets, busted television sets and even a few kitchen sinks. Maria is a scrap-metal dealer for Sims Metal, antique dealer, junkyard proprietor and she’ll even remove your furniture for you. She drives forklifts, trucks, tractors: “anything that’s got a motor underneath it I’ll have a go at,” she says. Maria has been in the Gippsland region a long time. On the 28th of July it was official. “40 years ago on the knocker” she started up in Foster. Though as tough as nails, her bark is much worse than her bite. On the outside, a grizzly bear, the ‘woman of steel’ they call her. However, if you take the time to sit down and have a cuppa and some sponge cake, you’ll find a gentle lamb. A joyous woman, a real gem, with a heart of pure gold. On our visit, we walk into the house and admire the many trinkets that she has accumulated in her living room… and in every other room, for that matter. “Don’t ask me to tidy up,” she says with a stern look, “because it’s a non-event, so shut up!” Deep in conversation, you tend to filter out the expletives flying high and low, and focus on the woman in front of you: a warm, sensitive, somewhat vulnerable lady. A loving mother of four, doting grandmother of two. She looks pretty damn good for someone who recently turned sixty. There were times during our conversation where my sides and jaw ached from fits of laughter, and I can honestly say that at other times I was fighting back the tears. But Maria is no pushover; she’s in the tough, male-dominated steel industry. “It’s an extremely hard business for a woman to be in.” But she’s tough. “You have to be,” she says. Just looking at her, you can tell that this woman has lived. She’s been out there and done the hard yards. She knows what it is to be poor, but also incredibly rich, though not so much in material

value. Having had her heart broken three times, Maria still believes that the greatest gift is to feel loved. “That’s the truth. That is the most precious thing in the world. I’d say that in a crowded room of people, and not be ashamed. And knowing (focusing on us), that you are here, that you made an attempt to come out in the cold, made an effort to make an appearance, and have shown enough love to walk through that door and say ‘we’re here for you’ – that’s what’s important. If you just analyse that, and focus on how many people have walked through that door, and have made an effort for you, just to acknowledge you – well that’s it – yunno.” Here is a woman who has the guts to stand up for what she truly believes in. “You have to be comfortable with what you believe.” And rightly so. Maria is determined to call a spade a spade. “If someone is a b…..d, I’ll tell them so to their face; I don’t f… around with ‘em. If someone is good to me, they get treated good back. That’s the rules of my game in life. I’ve got a motto: ‘If I can make just one person happy each day, I’m doing good.’ If you multiply that by your lifetime, you’ve done pretty f….ing. good, I reckon. That’s a f…ing lot of people.” You could say she’s had it tough, with her fair share of injuries and a whole lot of heartache, but time has taught her something- “Don’t get angry – just get even. There’s nothing worse than a woman’s revenge – bloody take it from me. I’ve had it hard, don’t get me wrong, and my job is extremely hard for a woman, but you just have to keep plodding along.” Some people call her the ‘woman of steel.’ I’d say a trooper, a real inspiration. “I don’t care what you call me,” she says “just don’t call me late for dinner. Forget what they call me, as long as they love me.” Maria told us that on a visit to the Philippines an elder had said to her, “Maria, you are not only beautiful; you are a woman of the world.” I think you would find for yourself that one visit to meet the ‘woman of steel,’ would prove just that. C

lollylegs mariajackson

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“If I can make just one person happy each day, I’m doing good.’ If you multiply that by your lifetime, you’ve done pretty good, I reckon. “

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artistprofile “The pieces start to develop their own personality, and I’ll say ‘hello!’ It’s not real of course, but my work speaks to me, and takes on its own character.”

Beryl King Art has given Beryl King a whole new lease on life. Early retirement gave her the opportunity to get out of the city, and move with her husband Bob to a house at Cape Woolamai “which we just fell in love with,” she says. The couple used to live in Cheltenham. Beryl remembers, “I just felt out of place. My neighbour would get her fluffy duster out and dust the fence. It was crazy – I just didn’t relate at all.” When she moved to the coast, she says, “I thought, finally, this is where I belong – this is it. I live in a creative area.” Beryl works in a converted studio next to her mud brick house, overlooking a beautiful garden filled with bird song. For Beryl, art and creativity have always been a passion. Celebrating 44 years of marriage, Beryl smiles, “my husband Bob has always been supportive, and he’s a great sounding board for my work.” As a dedicated wife and mother, Beryl didn’t find the opportunity to fully embark on her artistic career till later in life, not that she feels cheated in any way. “I’ve had a wonderful life,” she says, glowing. At 49 years of age, Beryl decided her boys were old enough, and it was time to do something for herself. “I’d always go to the National Gallery, and other galleries to view different artists’ work. I was passionate about art.” Strangely, it never really occurred to Beryl that she too could study and become a serious artist. “I just didn’t realise how much I could do.” To get back into the flow of studying, Beryl enrolled in Asian and Women’s Studies at Moorabbin Tafe. “I started to get much more serious about my art once I started studying,” Beryl says. When she moved to Phillip Island, she enrolled in visual arts at Wonthaggi Tafe, revelling in the opportunity to experiment with painting, drawing and sculpture over a period of five years. A new world blossomed for the budding artist. “I had great teachers – Jo Jo Spook in sculpture and Vicky Nelson in painting. I’ve made so many new friends in the arts community down here,” she says. Beryl loves experimenting with different mediums, and during a stint doing wheel work, she was led her to her ultimate medium of choice – clay sculpture. “I went along thinking I would be tossing these amazing wheel works. Well, 12 months later, I discovered I wanted to do sculpture, and my teacher at the time really encouraged me.” From this point on, there was no stopping Beryl. She read ceramics

books voraciously, and loved to experiment with different techniques and oxides. She says, “I am totally self taught (in ceramics) and I think that has been a help in a way for me. I haven’t been constricted by comparing myself to anyone, I follow my own path.” The artist’s work has a whimsical thread running through it. “I’m a positive person,” says Beryl, “and while I do some serious themes, generally there is a lighter side to my work.” It’s been five years since Beryl beat her fight against breast cancer, and her emotional struggle with the disease was transformed into ‘The Fallen Series’, shown at the ‘Beyond Boundaries’ exhibition on the Bass Coast. After a period of numbness, Beryl threw herself into her work, and created the series which includes, ‘falling into darkness’, ‘falling between night and day’ and ‘fallen woman.’ The pieces expressed how the artist was feeling at the time. “I went through a lot of emotions,” the artist reflects. Having always been fit, healthy and conscious of her diet, the diagnosis of breast cancer at age sixty came as quite a shock. “Now I’ve come through it, I feel like I’m a much better person. I’ve got a different outlook on life. I enjoy every day, and I tell myself to just go for it and do what I want to do.” Through the cathartic process of creating and healing, Beryl feels her work has reached a new level. “When it works”, she says giggling, “the pieces start to develop their own personality, and I’ll say ‘hello!’ It’s not real of course, but my work speaks to me, and takes on its own character.” It doesn’t happen with every piece, but Beryl senses when she gets the feel of a personality, it will develop into a great piece. The artist has exhibited within the shire, and has recently shown her work at Meeniyan Art Gallery, and Cube 37 in Frankston. Her ultimate goal is to exhibit at the Sydney Myer Sculpture Award at Shepparton. In the meantime she is happy to open her studio to the public. “I’m a working studio, and I always find it fascinating to visit other artists’ studios. You get to see artists creating works, it’s all very exciting.” If you would like to see the artist in action, you can visit her studio at 34-36 Ocean Reach, Cape Woolamai – on weekends from 10am – 4 pm, or by appointment, call Beryl King on 5956 7645. C coast 31

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words Maria Reed photos Warren & Maria Reed, Jacquie Chambers

native naturally

Have you ever noticed what a clever gardener Mother Nature is? Take a walk through the dunes at your favourite beach and you will discover a wonderful variety of grasses, shrubs, flowers and trees that not only look great, but manage to cope with the harsh conditions of wind, sand and salt in a coastal environment.

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“You are not limited when using Australian natives in garden design.”

Pat Barrett and Jacquie Chambers from Coastal Native Landscapes find their designs are inspired by nature. Qualified horticulturists, their philosophy is to work with existing conditions to design Australian native gardens which are water-wise, low maintenance, attract local fauna, and simply look beautiful. “ You can create a garden to attract butterflies, birds, possums, frogs - and if you’re lucky, a local blue tongue,” says Jacquie. Their gardens dispel the myth that native gardens are boring or woody. “You are not limited when using Australian native plants, and you don’t have to be restricted to a bush-style garden either,” says Jacquie. Formal, mediterranean, modern, arid, cottage, and blended gardens are just a few examples of the styles you can achieve. There is an abundance of choice with species that add colour, texture, shape and form to a well-designed garden. Jacquie says, “occasional pruning promotes longer flowering periods, with some species flowering on and off throughout the year.” Mass plantings of colourful species can be used to add immediate impact in a garden. Pat and Jacquie admit to being native collectors, and like to use unusual plants within their designs. “You can create a native garden to match your lifestyle, or the style of your home – to beautiful effect,” says Jacquie. Living in a coastal environment presents special challenges for a gardener. Jacquie and Pat design gardens to work with existing conditions. “We are sensitive to the needs and requirements of our clients,” says Pat. “We consider the surrounding environmental conditions, the use of the site, topography, soil type, aspect, and choose the plant species accordingly.” Coastal Native Landscapes use a mixture of local and non locally occurring materials, including bluestone and granitic rocks, sand and various pebbles and natural mulch. Indigenous plants such as Leucophyta brownii, Correa alba, Chryscepalum apiculatum and Ficnea nodosa are commonly seen throughout their designs. Also many hardy Australian plants such as dwarf Eucalypts, Grevillias, Banksias, Correas, various feature grasses and ground covers are used to complement the natural beauty of the area. The pair grow their own stock, making the plants hardier as they have been acclimatised to local conditions. C If you are thinking about creating a delightful native garden, call Pat Barrett or Jacquie Chambers from Coastal Native Landscapes on 0422 685 045 for a consultation.

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Phillip Island

Cowes

1300 366 422

895 Phillip Island Tourist Road Newhaven Victoria 3925 piinfo@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Cnr Thompson Ave & Church St Cowes Victoria 3922 cowesinfo@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Inverloch

6 A’Beckett St Inverloch Victoria 3996

1300 762 433

invyinfo@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Wonthaggi

Watt Street Wonthaggi Victoria 3995

1300 854 334

woninfo@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Bass Coast Visitor Information Centres - Information about accommodation, attractions, walks, ﬁshing and much more...

sanremo coastal secrets

photos Warren Reed & Morgan O’Neill words Maria Reed

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feature area

San Remo at a glance LATITUDE – Simply beautiful gifts THE STUDIO – Friendly Internet cafe PELICANS BISTRO – Best meals in town SECRET SCRAPPERS – Sensational Scrap booking BASS COAST Sports & Spinal Osteopathy SAN REMO PHARMACY – Friendly, helpful advice SAN REMO REALTY – The Professionals in R/E DARREN BROWN DESIGN –Building design

A picturesque little fishing village, San Remo is the gateway to Phillip Island. Situated approximately 125 kilometres South East of Melbourne, the area is known for its beautiful beaches and fishing. It was named San Remo in 1888, after the famous resort on the Italian Riviera. In the early 20th century, commercial fishing commenced when railways offered access to Melbourne markets. The town grew around the fishing port, and from very early on, became a draw card for tourists. The area comes alive with a number of festivals held throughout the year. The San Remo Channel Challenge in February attracts hundreds of locals, and competitors from around the state, with a vigorous swim under the bridge that connects San Remo to Phillip Island, and a run back across the bridge. The village has a variety of eateries, pubs and great shopping. San Remo offers a wide range of accommodation choices and sporting facilities. Families can enjoy sheltered swimming at Children’s Beach, while Foots Beach offers a good surf break. A perfect destination for a leisurely holiday or day trip. C

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MEZZA LUNA

Coffee Shop

60 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi. Tel: 5672 1611

Coffee Excellence - Quality and service - Terry & Laura Valastro

Coffee & Cakes - a variety of coffex Coffee beans, foccaccia’s, gourmet panini and pasta. Fully licensed - quality range of wines & beer. Coffee garden, Bialetti Range of Coffee making accessories & parts, coffee loyalty programme, open 7 days.

A great place to stop, a great place to stay...

New ﬂavour... great wine... cold beer... menu featuring local produce... Warm & welcoming... cosy ﬁre-places... comfy couches... friendly faces... The way you imagine a country pub to be...

Nick & Misha Say

a/ 161 Marine Pde San Remo t/ 03 5678 5205 e/ info@thewesternport.com.au www.thewesternport.com.au coast 36 SPRING FINAL.indd 36

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wheretoeat A quick guide for great places to snack, wine & dine

Sarah Ashe

23 Graham Street Wonthaggi, Victoria Phone 03 5672 1216 Intimate dining

Cafe Lugano

Mezza Luna

60 McBride Avenue Wonthaggi, Victoria Phone 03 5672 1611 Fabulous coffee, cakes & meals

Hard Loch Cafe

71 Thompson Avenue Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 5636 Modern style cafe food

10 Smith Street Loch, Victoria Phone 5659 4466 Fine food, organic coffee

The Foreshore

Cafe Tsunami

Island food store

Chicory Restaurant

2/75 Chapel Street Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 6400 Simply good food

115 Thompson Ave Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 2655 Modern Australian food with Asian influences

Harrys on the Esplanade

Pelicans Bistro

Tudor Treats

Watsons on Whitelaw

Restaurant & Bar 11 Beach Rd, Rhyll, Phillip Isl. Phone 03 5956 9520 Lunch & dinner by the bay Substantial a la carte menu

17 The Esplanade, Cowes Phone 03 5952 6226 Fine dining - Fresh seafood

Shop 2, 72 Chapel Street Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 2951 Delicious home made foods

Hotel

The Esplanade, Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 2060 Modern Contemporary food

8 Williams Street Inverloch, Victoria Phone 03 5674 2129 Modern Australian and international cuisine

161 Marine Parade, San Remo Phone 03 5678 5205 Live acoustic guitar and great meals

South Gippsland Hwy Meeniyan. Ph 03 5664 0088 Quality dining experience

Sandbanks

8-10 Forest Ave, Newhaven, Phillip Island Phone 03 5956 6766 Modern Australian cuisine coast 37

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the foreshore bar & restaurant

The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant is situated in the quiet little village of Rhyll on Phillip Island. This unique setting with its amazing 180 degree water views has helped us to create a warm and relaxing environment for people to sit and enjoy good food, great coffee or a cool drink. Open all day from 11am.

Spring opening hours saturday & sunday lunch thursday to tuesday dinner

Modern Australian food with some Asian inďŹ&#x201A;uences

115 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922 Victoria p. 03 5952 2655 f. 03 5952 6540 e. info@chicory.com.au w. www.chicory.com.au

Our menuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprise of local produce, fresh seafood and dishes & influences from around the world. At lunch time, we offer light snacks as well as main meals. In the evening we have a full a la carte menu which includes starters, mains and desserts. Please refer to our web site for our menus. 11 Beach Road, Rhyll, Phillip Island Victoria Phone 03 5956 9520 Fax 03 5956 9039 Email enquiry@theforeshore.com.au www.theforeshore.com.au

Local fresh produce with seafood straight from the boat, in house bakery and home made icecream

Waterfront dining with panoramic bay views 17 The Esplanade Cowes, Vic Phone (03) 5952 6226 coast 3 SPRING FINAL.indd 38

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dineout

cafereview

Cafe Lugano 71 Thompson Avenue Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 5636 Open 7 days catering & evenings on request

words Maria Reed photos Warren Reed

ollow your eyes to the candy-striped façade on the main drag at Cowes, and your nose will lead you to Café Lugano’s enticing aromas. You’ll find the only thing hotter than the hot pink walls is the exciting menu - and their piping hot coffee. New owners Wayne Foster and Amy Luke decided the café was in need of a bright new facelift. The pair met over a scrabble board, “and whoever hosted the game had to cook lunch,” Amy grins. Amy studied history and philosophy at university, and has her own personal philosophy which is, “don’t take life too seriously, and have fun.” Amy makes great coffee and designed the bright interior, which “matches her personality and taste in music perfectly – it’s loud!,” laughs Wayne. Amy brings her sunny nature to work, and as Wayne admits, “she has a flair with the customers.” Wayne, on the other hand, made a life change at 27, swapping his profession as a building estimator for a life of cooking. “I couldn’t stand the 9 to 5 grind, and numbers going around in my head all the time, so I decided to become a chef,” he says. Together, the pair make an energetic team. Wayne says, “All our meals are cooked with love, and everything is cooked to order.” Their café is small enough to be adaptable and tailored to their customers’ needs. However, with such an extensive menu and abundance of choice you can’t imagine the need to create something new. Café Lugano offers an ‘all day’ breakfast menu, with the usual favorites like a big brekkie, pancakes and muesli. There is a vegetarian option, and if you’re feeling in the mood for something deliciously different, try the French toast with fresh fruit. The main menu features a selection of soups, salads, foccaccias, pasta, and more substantial meals – all made to order. They have a small range of wines by the glass, and a delicious selection of freshly squeezed juices. “We have great cakes,” says Wayne. Along with divine coffee, “the apple and cinnamon muffins smell and taste fantastic!” For lunch I had the lentil burger with satay sauce and salad. (Now you can put away your headbands, and forget about flavourless ‘hippy’ fare!) This is one of the tastiest lentil burgers I’ve gotten my chompers into for a long time. I don’t know if it’s because it’s Amy’s mum’s secret recipe, but I would put my money on this lentil burger over a regular hamburger any time. It was full flavoured, and the satay sauce left my taste buds craving for more – mmmmm! My companion chose the saffron chicken risotto, which looked visually fabulous. The rich golden saffron rice, with the redness of tomatoes, and the vivid green capsicum looked very appetising. My partner described the dish as full flavoured, with a great texture, and a subtle smoky flavour. Either dish would match beautifully with a freshly squeezed juice, or a glass of wine. A quick browse at the specials had our mouths watering. Indian butter chicken, Mee Goreng with chicken and shrimp or tofu, and braised lamb in red wine made us check our diaries for a return visit. Café Lugano is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week. They take group dinner bookings for dinner for 10 or more people. Finger food is a specialty, and they would welcome catering enquiries for parties and special events. C

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Hotel

map coffee & homemade food

Freshly shucked oysters

giftware & specialty christmas decorations

monthly roast lunches

Modern Australian cuisine

fibre optic christmas trees Woodﬁred pizza

Tudor Treats Shop 2, 72 Chapel Street, Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 5952 2951 Fax 5952 2951

8-10 Forest Avenue Newhaven 3925 Phillip Island, Victoria t. (03) 5956 6766

Coffee Food Bar Music Fun cnr The Esplanade and Thompson Ave, Cowes, Phillip Island Tel: (03)5952 2060 Fax: (03) 5952 1829

WAT S O N S O N W H I T E LAW

For a “Quality Dining experience”

food glorious food

Fully Licensed & Air Conditioned Wheel chair access

Hours of Operation BRUNCH / LUNCH Wed - Sun 9am-4pm DINNER Friday - Sat 4pm-12pm On the South Gippsland Hwy, Meeniyan Call us on 03 56 640 088 or Mobile 0434 614257 Bookings appreciated

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lovethat coffee

coﬀee words Lisa Valastro photos Warren Reed

At Mezza Luna Coffee Shop, you are welcomed by a warm Mediterranean feel and the smooth aroma of Arabica beans. Come in and meet Terry, who doesn’t mind sitting down for a coffee or a chat. He’s bound to tell you about his love affair with his coffee machine, Sophia, who has a personality of her own. But don’t get on her wrong side; she may just let off a little steam! Those who know Terry Valastro would agree that he has more energy than a hyperactive Jack Russell. Terry is also the proud proprietor of ‘Mezza Luna’ Coffee Shop in Wonthaggi, together with his wife Laura. Moving from the hustle and bustle of café life in the city almost four years ago, Terry and Laura have comfortably settled into Wonthaggi. As well as being a qualified chef and food technologist, Terry is an authentic barrista who has had over thirty years’ experience in the colourful world of the continental café scene. Some may be foolish enough to refer to themselves as barrista’s, but be very careful, because it’s that deep seated passion and many years of experience that will earn you that title, according to Terry. “The best analogy I can give is that I can teach anyone to use an espresso or cappuccino machine, but I can’t teach people to make good coffee. People will label themselves anything they want you to believe they are, without understanding the product or the concept, or most importantly, without having the heart. Coffee is very much a creative passion, because if you don’t have that true sentiment, you will not last five minutes in the industry.” It is fair to say that Terry has that genuine passion for coffee running deep in his veins. It came about from his ancestry, originating in the old country of southern Italy. “I think my empathy for coffee comes automatically because of my Italian heritage. In Italy, coffee is more than just a social event. It is part of the inherent culture.” It is evident when walking into the café that Terry has a profound enthusiasm for coffee, but also for sharing that social interaction with his customers. “People will come into the café and I don’t mind having a coffee and a chat.” So what would be the greatest gift Terry could give to anyone? “Honestly”, he says, “the greatest gift I can give anyone

is my time and experience.” You may ask where the name Mezza Luna comes from. Terry found inspiration in his childhood fascination of the moon. The word for moon in Italian is ‘La Luna’ “but there were two of us” he thought, my wife Laura and myself, so he decided to call it Mezza Luna, which means ‘half moon.’ Their café logo represents a dark and a light side of the moon. “Laura is the dark half,” he says cheekily. You could say that Terry is a lucky man having two women in his life. “Two women,” you gasp. Yes, his wife Laura and…. Sophia, the temperamental coffee machine with a unique personality! “All my coffee machines have a personality” Terry says “And I think they can have different personalities on different days. Sophia can sometimes let off a bit of steam, but we usually get on well on a daily basis. She’d be the woman I’d have if I wasn’t married”, he adds with a grin, “but don’t tell Laura, she’s a bit jealous of Sophia.” Is a sassy espresso machine like Sophia the secret to great coffee? Or, is it perhaps the beans or the operator? “All of those” says Terry, “as well as the understanding and the love of making coffee. With a good espresso, you should be able to see the coffee oils, the ‘crema’, which is how I love to drink my coffee. Unfortunately, nowadays, people don’t fully appreciate that unless you keep your equipment in top hygienic working order, you cannot produce a top standard coffee. So, when people say I am fussy”, says Terry, “in the words of some kids today... Damn straight!” “All of us at Mezza Luna take great pride in ensuring that our customers’ expectations are fulfilled. In our establishment, we would not serve anybody a cup of coffee if it were not to our standard.” C

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my favoriterecipe Sticky date puddings Having managed pubs and worked previously as a chef in Melbourne, Brent decided a sea change was in order. A move to Inverloch with his wife Linda saw them take over business at Café Tsunami. That was 3 ½ years ago – and their delighted customers haven’t looked back. With a passion for cooking, Brent and Linda train all their own staff, and they are doing such a great job that they recently won a guernsey in the Victorian State Training awards. Many of their staff have gone on to work at 4 and 5 star hotels, - obviously a job well done!

fabulous food & provisions

the island food store shop 2 / 75 Chapel Street,Cowes tel: 5952 6400

Brent Davis from Café Tsunami in Inverloch shares this delicious dessert with our Coast readers.

Ingredients

Full a la carte menu all day Modern Australian and international cuisine Fully licenced Gourmet Pizzas Spring Hours Mon-Fri 11am till late Sat-Sun 10am till late 8 Williams St, Inverloch 3996 Ph: 5674 2129

225g dates 250ml water 2g bi-carb soda 110g butter 185g sugar 110g plain flour 110g self raising flour 3 eggs Toffee sauce 265g brown sugar 150g butter 185ml cream A dash of vanilla essence

Method Chop dates and place in boiling water with bi-carb soda. Cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time until light and fluffy. Fold flour through mixture and fold in the dates. Place mixture in single cup cooking moulds and bake in the oven at 375 F for approximately 40 minutes. To make toffee sauce, melt all ingredients together in a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes. Turn out the individual cakes onto a serving plate and top with toffee sauce. Serve with a dollop of double cream and a strawberry. Dust with icing sugar. Note: Whenever baking, make sure all your ingredients are weighed, your moulds are greased, and you have all the equipment you require on hand. These delicious puddings can be frozen and reheated at your convenience in the microwave. C

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Lyre Bird hill Winery & Guesthouse

Come and enjoy the open fire with a glass of fine estate wine, then stay the night in 4 1/2 Star comfort for Dinner, Bed and Breakfast. Refresh with a garden and vineyard walk.

Cellar Door open every day except Tuesday, for tastings & sales.

Lyre Bird Hill Winery & Guesthouse, 370 Inverloch Road, Koonwarra Phone 03 5664 3204 www.lyrebirdhill.com.au

Promontory Road, Fish Creek, Victoria 3959 Tel: 5683 2441 e. vineyard@waratahhills.com.au w. www.waratahhills.com.au

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drink&bmerry A grape grazing guide

NYORA

COWES

PHILLIP

ISLAND

LOCH Corinella GRANTVILLE Coronet Bay > Bass River KORUMBURRA Bass winery LEONGATHA San Remo Kilcunda Koonwarra Dalyston > Lyrebird Hill winery Meeniyan WONTHAGGI INVERLOCH FOSTER Cape Paterson FISH CREEK > Windy Ridge winery Venus TARWIN LOWER Bay > Waratah Hills Venus Bay Corner winery Inlet Waratah Bay Sandy Point Walkerville Waratah Bay WILSONS PROMONTORY

Come and sample the fine wines on offer in this vibrant wine region.

Windy Ridge

527 Fish Creek - Foster Road Foster. Phone 0416 192 264 www.windyridgewinery.com.au Beautiful Prom country vineyard

winery

Bass River

1835 Dalyston-Glen Forbes Rd Glen Forbes. Phone 5678 8252 www.bassriverwinery.com Boutique winery

Waratah Hills

A boutique winery with a fine selection of locally produced wines

Cellar door open 10am-5pm daily 1835 Dalyston-Glen Forbes Road, Glen Forbes Victoria 3990 Ph. (03) 5678 8252 www.bassriverwinery.com

Promontory Road Fish Creek. Phone 5683 2441 www.waratahhills.com.au Exciting varieties

Lyrebird Hill

370 Inverloch Road Koonwarra. Phone 5664 3204 www.lyrebirdhill.com.au Winery and B & B

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summerstarters Enjoy the start of summer in vineyards of the region >

words Maria Reed photos Warren & Maria Reed

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summerstarters Sitting amongst the vines, you feel the sun on your back, and the smell of freshly cut grass and ocean spray fills your senses. The air has a breezy warmth, and you listen to the birds twitter. You take in the view and enjoy a fine local wine. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? Well, winegrowers of the Bass Coast and South Gippsland region have joined forces for the second year running to make your dreams come true, in the shape of Summer Starters. It is a weekend of fine wine, food, art and music at local wineries of the region. Liz Rushen from Waratah Hills vineyard says, “we’re celebrating the start of summer, and giving people permission, “not that they need any,” she laughs, “to come and visit after a winter hibernation.” The emphasis is on local produce, and participating wineries will be showcasing the best wine and food of the area. “We have some brilliant muso’s in this region and a great selection of local art will be on show,” says Liz. The event has been timed for the Melbourne Cup weekend, November 4 and 5 , to allow wine ‘punters’ ample time to explore the 14 venues at their leisure. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet the makers and sample the delectable cool climate wines of the region. One of the many highlights of the program includes Ian McMullan’s classical, slide and blues guitar, accompanied by oven-roasted bruschetta, Krowera olive oils, tapenade and marinated goat fetta at Paradise Enough Winery. “You’ll get to meet many of the winemakers of the region who put their heart and soul into nurturing the vines, and you’ll feel the love they have for their profession,” Liz says. “What makes this region quite distinct is the fact that we rarely employ cellar door staff. We can tell the tales of what was happening when the grapes were picked, or what the seasons were like – it makes for a very rewarding experience,” she says. The launch of Summer Starters will kick off with a cocktail party at Harry’s on the Esplanade at Cowes on October 12. Ever mindful of drink driving, the group has organised a wine tour bus for the Summer Starters weekend, with a choice of two routes that have been designed to incorporate six wineries. Now there is no excuse – get out there and celebrate summer! For further enquiries contact Liz Rushen, secretary of Southern Gippsland Wines Inc. on phone 5683 2441 or email liz@waratahhills.com.au. For details on the wine tour bus please call 5664 3204. C coast 46 SPRING FINAL.indd 46

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body&soul a guide to health & beauty

Jeminy Hair & Health

Amcal Cowes

Island Healing

Bass Coast Osteopathy

Shop B, 10a Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett Street Inverloch, Victoria Phone 03 56743122 Hairdressing & Health

6 Forrest Avenue, Newhaven, Phillip Island Phone 03 5956 7886 The art of wellbeing

24 Thompson Avenue, Cowes, Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 2061 Clarins stockist

Dr Mathew Holmes & Dr Donovan Strachan

2B Hazelwood Rd, San Remo Phone 03 5678 5966 Sports & Spinal Osteopathy

Future Pure Water

San Remo Pharmacy

Expressive Therapies

Darren George Hair

Optometrist

Personal trainer

PO Box 225, Cowes Phillip Island Ph 03 5952 6735 0400 432 149 Water purification systems

Jo Ablett - Counsellor 51 Harris Road, Ventnor, PI. Ph 5956 8306 0417 078792 Meditation, workshops & more

Graham Street Wonthaggi, Victoria Phone 03 56722 927 For all your optical requirements

123 Marine Parade San Remo, Victoria Phone 03 5678 5202 Friendly, helpful staff

6-14 The Esplanade, Cowes Phillip Island Phone 03 5952 2647 Beach style, city chic

Simone Lawson Phillip Island Mob. 0407 553 211 Be your best

Angela Murray

18 Park Street, Inverloch Ph. 03 5674 2351 Massage therapist - shiatsu, lymph drainage, reflexology

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BASS COAST

Sports & Spinal Osteopathy

Let us help relieve your aches & pains. Osteopaths are highly qualified primary health care practitioners who provide safe and effective hands on treatment of musculoskeletal pain and a wide range of general health problems.

Dr Mathew Holmes

We invite you to join our Innoxa Beauty Club: * Every sixth product absolutely free * 20% off initial purchases on joining Erin and Julie, our Innoxa beauty consultants, look forward to seeing you.

Available at San Remo Pharmacy

BSc(Clin Sc) MHSc(Osteopathy)

Dr Donovan Strachan

BSc(Clin Sc) MHSc(Osteopathy)

Hypo-allergenic . Fragrance free . Not tested on animals

123 Marine Parade, San Remo, Victoria Tel. 03 5678 5202 Fax 03 5678 5376 Email: sanremo.pharmacy@nunet.com.au

By appointment Phone: 5678 5966 2B Hazelwood Road, San Remo, Victoria

feel better. . .

island healing

. . . live better . Bowen . Yoga . Pilates . Wellness consulting

Massage

. Aromatherapy . Remedial . Relaxation . Pregnancy

6 Forrest Avenue Newhaven, Phillip Island p. 5956 7886 f. 5956 7880 islheal@bigpond.net.au www.islandhealing.com.au

SATURDAY AM PILATES NOW AVAILABLE

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health&beauty

imone Lawson

words Lisa Valastro It’s a little easier to be motivated to get out there at 6.30 in the morning when there is someone there doing the kilometres with you. A personal trainer is a qualified fitness motivator. They can individualise fitness programs, catering for differing levels of fitness and individual capabilities. With obesity levels in Australia on the rise, it is important to get out there and try to improve fitness, and also to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Simone Lawson, a personal trainer from Cape Woolamai, believes that “a healthy diet, exercise, relaxation time, socialization and a sense of purpose in life are all contributing factors to living a healthy lifestyle.” There are numerous benefits from doing some form of exercise; these range from a decreased risk of coronary heart disease to decreased stress levels. The easiest way is to try and get out there and enjoy the fantastic scenery. You don’t have to run. You can walk, swim, run, surf, bike ride, whatever you like. Simone suggests aiming to exercise at least three times a week. “It may seem a little hard at first, but you can make it a social event, go with a friend or a get a small group together.” There are obvious advantages in exercising, but some people may feel a bit discouraged if they don’t see results straight away. Simone recommends starting off slowly. “Focus on short term goals which are achievable, for example running or walking a certain distance. Then, set long-term goals, say entering a fun run or walk. Follow up by trying to better your times for future runs/walks or increasing distances. Also, a good motivator is running in an attractive environment.” What better way to see some of our stunning beaches and picturesque surroundings? “Some of the locals are unaware of the beautiful places you can run. My favourites are the Cape Woolamai quarry and the Churchill Island track. Also, running to the rock pools at the beach is quite amazing. You get to explore while you’re getting fit. So many people are surprised by these little secret spots that are so nice to be out running in.” Once reaching personal goals and increasing general fitness, it would only be natural that people’s confidence levels would skyrocket. Simone says, “People can function at a more efficient level just performing everyday tasks. Changes in body shape and reaching goals they have set for themselves are huge confidence boosters!” “A client of mine did a half-marathon (21.1km) not long ago in Melbourne, and he had only been training with me since February. When he started training, a 1km run was a struggle, and now he’s just completed his first half-marathon! Most people I train want to run, but I don’t mind if we walk or bike-ride or swim; it’s up to the individual. I train all age ranges. You’re never too old to get fit. We should feel blessed that we have such beautiful scenery to take advantage of.” The warmer weather is fast approaching. So what are you waiting for? Grab your mum, your neighbour or your dog and head down to a nearby beach or walking track. There are so many to choose from along the coast, so take advantage of the sunshine to get fit, stay healthy (and work off Mum’s hearty winter casseroles). C

beach style, city chic Darren George Hair 6-14 The Esplanade, Cowes Phone 03 5952 2647

personaltrainer

Around this time of year, some people may find it a little difficult getting out of bed. The nights are icy and the mornings a bit fresh, and even though you spot your runners in the corner of the room, your doona or electric blanket are looking a lot more inviting than donning a pair of shorts and going for a run. That can take a bit of will-power.

0407 553 211

Be your best

Jo Ablett m a l c o l m

g i n

O P T O M E T R I S T

Counsellor

OPTICAL SOLUTIONS 55 GRAHAM STREET WONTHAGGI T. 03 5672 2927

. meditation . counselling . art classes . workshops . retreats . painting sales

51 Harris Road, Ventnor p. 03 5956 8306 m. 0417 078792 ablett@waterfront.net.au coast 49

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where stay A great getaway guide

Youkis

Sarah Ashe

9 Beach Road, Rhyll, Phillip Isl. Phone 03 5956 9022 www.youkisonphillipisland.com Five star luxury on the water

23 Graham St, Wonthaggi Phone 03 5672 1216 www.sarahashe.com.au B & B and restaurant

Eugenies

Bear Gully cottages

Lyrebird Hill

Across the Moors

Marks Villa

Wonthaggi Cottage

16 Ramsay Blvd, Inverloch Phone 03 5674 6121 www.eugenies.com.au Luxury boutique style

33 Maitland Court, Cp.Liptrap Phone 03 5663 2364 www.beargully.com.au Spectacular ocean views

11a Chale Crt, Silverleaves, PI. Phone 03 5952 2282 Elegant luxurious accommodation for couples

370 Inverloch Rd, Koonwarra Phone 03 5664 3204 www.lyrebirdhill.com.au Winery and Guesthouse

22 Baillieu Street, Wonthaggi Phone 03 5672 3346 B & B Accommodation - fully self contained

24-26a Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett St, Inverloch Phone 03 5674 1311 www.promcountry.com.au Disabled rooms & facilities

We offer professional Clarins make-overs for weddings, debutantes and special occasions. Bookings essential.

Cowes Pharmacy 24 Thompson Ave Cowes Vic 3922 Tel. 03 5952 2061 Fax. 03 5952 2499 cowes@waterfront.net.au

OPEN 7 DAYS

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EUGENIE’S luxury accommodation

Across the Moors Luxurious accommodation for couples

INVERLOCH

Your host Michael Malone welcomes you to this boutique hotel style accommodation. Eugenie’s is all about indulgence. Located in the heart of Inverloch, just 50 metres from the beach, every room is luxuriously appointed and has an ocean view. Guests have the choice of a private spa and direct pool access, or the Penthouse suite, with views stretching across Bass Strait. Enjoy champagne and chocolates on your arrival. Eugenie’s has a small conference facility so corporate clients are welcome.

www.eugenies.com.au 16 Ramsay Blvd, Inverloch p. 03 5674 6121 m. 0407 343 843

Disabled rooms and facilities available

* One single and one two bedroom unit for people with disabilities * Hydraulic lift for easy access to pool *12 units, 9 double & 3 family rooms * Indoor heated pool & spa * Breakfast/Conference room * Austar Pay TV * Easy walk to shops & beach * 24 hour security 24 - 26a AʼBeckett Street Inverloch Victoria 3996 Ph 03 5674 1311 03 5674 1377 Fax 03 5674 2173 web www.promcountry.com.au email marksinverloch@bigpond.com.au

stay

Your host, Susie Stoppa welcomes you to enjoy a tranquil and serene escape in luxury surrounds . . .

Across the Moors, 11A Chale Court, Silverleaves, Phillip Island, Victoria Enquiries - Phone 03 5952 2282 Fax 03 5952 5226

Bear Gully Coastal Cottages AAA Tourism Star Rating Four charming contemporary style seaside cottages have been specially designed for you to enjoy the spectacular ocean views across Waratah Bay to Wilson’s Promontory in complete comfort and privacy

play getaway

33 Maitland Court, Cape Liptrap Victoria

Tel. 03 5663 2364 E. beargully@bigpond.com www.beargully.com.au coast 51

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beargully breathtaking

words Maria Reed photos Warren Reed

‘Patience is a virtue’ – or so my mother told me. The trip to Bear Gully cottages at Cape Liptrap may take a little longer than expected, but your patience will be well rewarded by breathtaking ocean views and warm hospitality.

We are met by the unofficial welcoming party, (labradors Angus and Flynn), who wag their way, after a friendly greeting, to our hosts Jill and Gary Butterfield. The couple have created a retreat where peace and relaxation are paramount. Situated on a spectacular property at Cape Liptrap, four oceanfront cottages nestle beautifully amongst native gardens which look out over Wilson’s Promontory. Jill says, “It’s a really special place.” Looking across to Tidal River, Skull Rock, and Rodondo Island, you’ll see beautiful contrasting views of mountains, islands and the ocean – “it’s just spectacular,” she says. The couple started from scratch. Rewind six years, and the 5 acres of lush native gardens and manicured lawns that exist now, were just a mere patch of paddock. The planting of indigenous trees and shrubs has encouraged a family of koalas to move in. “We used to see them all the time,” says Jill, “but since the trees have become more established, we only hear them.” As we sit and chat and watch a contented flock of galahs pick through the lawn, Jill speaks of the amazing array of bird life attracted to the garden. “There is such a diversity of birds; little white-faced chats, finches and firetails are regular visitors.” Wedge-tailed eagles and albatrosses often glide by. The cottages are only a few steps from an unspoilt beach. The foreshore is a haven of little sandy coves and rock pools to explore. Coastal walks, swimming, diving, boating and fishing are all on your doorstep. For the ultimate in relaxation, laze away the afternoon in the hammock on the deck. The hardest decision is whether to continue

that novel you never got to finish, or indulge in an afternoon siesta. The chances are you’ll find it impossible to take your eyes from the mesmerising view. The light-filled, breezy cottages are designed for relaxation. Soft colours on the walls are complemented by furnishings, artworks, and special little touches which are designed to help you unwind. All facilities are present for your convenience; television, video, dvd, stereo, microwave, gas pot-belly stove and a barbeque. The cottages are fully self-contained, but Jill advises, “bring a hamper of goodies,” as the nearest restaurant or shopping centre is quite a journey. Bedrooms sit to the side of the living and dining area, allowing for magnificent sea views from all rooms. At night, enjoy stargazing from the comfort of your bed, with perfectly positioned portholes giving you a unique window to the universe. Cottages are equipped with a combination of two queen rooms, or a queen and twin rooms, which makes an ideal getaway for 2 couples, or friends. The ‘rookery’ is currently under construction, and will be able to accommodate groups of up to ten people. “It’s such a spectacular spot”, Jill says, “we are even starting to get wedding bookings”. It’s the perfect venue. C For bookings please call Jill or Gary on 03 5663 2364 or email beargully@bigpond.com - for further information check out the website at www.beargullycottages.com.au

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“It’s a really special place. Looking across to Tidal River, Skull Rock, and Rodondo Island, you’ll see beautiful contrasting views of mountains, islands and the ocean – it’s just spectacular. “

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coastal secrets

Prom Country Visitor Information Centre

South Gipppsland Highway, Korumburra, VICTORIA, 3950. Phone: 1800 630 704 infocentre@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.visitpromcountry.com Phone us for your FREE Prom Country Vistor Guide & Touring Map.

leongatha lively

photos Warren Reed & Maria Reed

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feature area

Leongatha is a bustling township in the heart of Prom Country. Home to one of Australia’s largest milk producing plants, Murray Goulburn, Leongatha provides a central location to explore the attractions and destinations of the Gippsland Region. In the township itself there is plenty to discover. The Great Southern Rail Trail starts in Leongatha and stretches almost 50km past the townships of Koonwarra, Meeniyan, Fish Creek and Foster. The graded track is suitable for cycling, walking or horse riding and shorter sections can be completed to accommodate all levels of fitness and enthusiasm. The main street of Leongatha offers a variety of fine shops and eateries to choose from. If you are looking to update your spring wardrobe, visit Pomegranate Clothing and Influence on Dusk. They have a gorgeous selection of spring wear for any occasion. Hungry? Carino’s Cafe and Wine Bar is the perfect stop for a coffee, tasty meal or refreshment. The Stadium cinema, located next door is the place to catch up on the latest movies, and offers regular theme nights. Just out of town is the Firelight Museum, an amazing collection of antique lamps and firearms dating back to the 1880’s. Owner and resident expert, Ted Hattam, has a wealth of information and makes a journey through the Firelight Museum an immensely entertaining experience. If you are a wine buff, be sure to visit Windy Ridge, Waratah Hills and Lyrebird Hill wineries. They are all just a short drive from Leongatha. With so many attractions in town and others only a short drive away, it’s no wonder many people choose Leongatha as a base to explore the wider Prom Country and Gippsland regions. C

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beach house constructions www.beachhouseconstructions.com.au

pty ltd

Have you ever dreamt of owning your own beach house?

designers & builders

DISPLAY NOW OPEN

at 50 Anderson Road, Cowes. Phone Mark Plant 0418 595 410

p.o. box 5106 cowes, victoria 3922 fax: 59 523 900 email: info@beachhouseconstructions.com.au SPRING FINAL.indd 56

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coast property

Your dedicated lifestyle property guide featuring homes and real estate from Phillip Island to the Prom.

a surfers paradise

A family friendly feat of modern architecture at Surf Beach - pg 62 coast 57 SPRING FINAL.indd 57

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coastal property lisitings

your coastal real estate specialists AREA

ADDRESS

Kilcunda Cowes Surf Beach Silverleaves Rhyll Cowes Ventnor Sunderland Bay Surf Beach Surf Beach

EPR

34 Mabilia Road, Kilcunda 21 The Esplanade, Cowes 2/104 The Esplanade ,Surf Beach 21 Martin Street, Silverleaves 62 Beach Rd, Rhyll 340-342 Church Street, Cowes Lot 18, Victoria Rd, Ventnor 74 The Esplanade, Sunderland Bay 150 The Esplanade, Surf Beach 100 The Esplanade, Surf Beach

Thinking of a sea change? Talk to our coastal real estate specialists. The grass is ‘greener’ on the Coast!

AGENT/CONTACT

POA from $660K $540K $445K $900,000 $from 390K $1,200,000 $679,000 $695,000 $565,000

PG NO.

Judith Wright 03 59525100 Judith Wright 03 59525100 Judith Wright 03 59525100 Judith Wright 03 59525100 Judith Wright 03 59525100 Judith Wright 03 59525100 foxsocks real estate 03 5952 6633 foxsocks real estate 03 5952 6633 SOLD foxsocks real estate 03 5952 6633 foxsocks real estate 03 5952 6633 NYORA

59 59 59 59 59 59 61 61 61 61

LOCH Corinella GRANTVILLE COWES Coronet Bay KORUMBURRA Bass LEONGATHA San Remo PHILLIP ISLAND Kilcunda Koonwarra Dalyston BASS STRAIGHT Newhaven Meeniyan WONTHAGGI Cape Woolamai INVERLOCH Surf Beach FOSTER Cape Paterson Sunderland Bay FISH CREEK Sunset Strip TARWIN LOWER Venus Smiths Beach Bay Venus Bay Corner Berrys Beach Inlet Ventnor Silverleaves Rhyll

colin vanderstaay

building your dreams

Waratah

Sandy Point Walkerville Waratah Bay

WILSONS PROMONTORY

live your dream

Registered building practitioner Vanderstaay & son Pty Ltd abn 17 064 900 223 dba 6261 mba 46870 po box 312, San Remo Vic 3925 ph 0409 694 270 fax 0359 566 611 www.colinvanderstaay.com

Reg i s te red B u i ld i ng P rac t i t io ne r

BUILDING DESIGN & DRAFTING BUILDING CONSULTANTS 3/65 Backbeach Rd, San Remo 3925 p. (03) 5678 5226 m. 0418 379 301 e. darren@dbdesign.com.au website. www.dbdesign.com.au

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34 Mabilia Road, KILCUNDA

Cape Inspiration

POA

Innovatively designed to capture the extraordinary views over Bass Straight. 2 Acres of foreshore land & unique architect designed home (4 bed, 5 bath, gourmet kitchen). Amazing & inspiring views from every room.

21 The Esplanade, COWES

Brand new apartments

21 Martin Street, SILVERLEAVES

2/104 The Esplanade, SURF BEACH

Simply Stunning

$540,000

This state of the art, architect designed home is situated opposite the beach with water views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & 2 large living areas. Enjoy the style and sophistication of this unique home.

62 Beach Road, Rhyll

Foreshore Haven

$900,000

Absolute foreshore - 4 bedroom residence with 3 living areas capturing amazing 180 degree views across the bay to the San Remo hills. Stroll to the shops and Foreshore Tavern. Inspection will be a delight.

Judith Wright

real estate 03 5952 5100 www.judithwright.com.au

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from $660,000

Directly opposite the beach. Architect designed, modern and quality fittings. Be quick to take advantage of the stamp duty savings.Only 2 apartments left with stunning water views.

Belle Cottage

$445,000

Immaculate cottage style home-polished floorboards throughout the generous living areas. Located in the beautiful area of Silverleaves, only a five minute walk to the a stunning front beach. Inspection will impress.

340-342 Church Street, COWES

Make that sea change

from $390,000

Almost completed. Set on large allotments - sun drenched north facing living areas and deck - enjoy water views. 3 bed, 2 bath & DLUG. Live & entertain in style!

The Phillip Island Specialists Judith Wright 0407 558 933 Mike Foenander 0408 547 677 Peter Buitenhuis 0407 045 525

Judith Wright

real estate

LICENSED ESTATE AGENT

email: jwright@waterfront.net.au 54 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 3922 23/8/06 10:25:16 PM

“This property has been described by many as the most splendid and exciting ocean view anywhere along the coast of Australia.”

oceanluxury

Watch whales and dolphins cruise by your window at this stunning Kilcunda property. This cliff top masterpiece is the ultimate in ocean front luxury.

photos Maria Reed & Warren Reed The only way to describe this property is ‘breathtaking!’ An architect designed home of approximately 50 squares is set on a magnificent two and a half acres of cliff top, with absolute ocean frontage, and sweeping views along the coastline out to sea. This property has been described by many as the most splendid and exciting ocean view anywhere along the coast of Australia. The home itself boasts 10 large rooms, all bedrooms are opulent and feature ensuites and spa baths. The home is designed to capture views from every room. The kitchen is huge, with the very best of everything. The ‘piece de resistance’ is the lounge/dining area with huge glass panels and views to die for. There is also a beautiful Japanese garden with ponds and an outside spa - all very protected, and very private. The property has been divided into 3 paddocks and at one stage was set up as a breeding business for boutique dogs. This property would suit all types of uses from a B & B (for which it has a permit), to permanent living, to dog breeding or breeding of boutique stock. Kilcunda is only a short drive to Phillip Island and Wonthaggi and only about one and a half hours from Melbourne. Ocean beaches with wild surf and magnificent golden sand is what attracts people to this beautiful piece of coastline. This unique property only comes along once in a life time. Don’t miss your chance of paradise!

Private sale $1.85M, call Mr Peter Buitenhuis from Judith Wright Real estate on 0407 045 525 for a private viewing. coast 60 SPRING FINAL.indd 60

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elite coastal properties LOT 18 VICTORIA ROAD VENTNOR

Hard to find...Impossible to forget!

$1,200,000

100 THE ESPLANADE SURF BEACH

Can you believe this? So close to the beach

$565,000

One of the most magnificent beach front acreages on the Victorian Coastline. Situated at the end of a quiet road, with no passing traffic. This lot is treated to uninterrupted views of the barreling surf actually breaking on the sand - plus the rugged coastline - plus seal rocks and multicoloured sunsets. Pure magic!

Explore the captivating views on offer here at Surf Beach. Utilize this home or get creative and redevelop in order to maximise its obvious potential (STCA). The property is situated on the foreshore with easy access to one of Phillip Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular beaches. Views across Bass Strait and Cape Woolamai.

74 THE ESPLANADE SUNDERLAND BAY

150 THE ESPLANADE SURF BEACH

Remarkable Views For This Stunning Address

$679,000

Get swept away in the sheer beauty of rolling waves and magnificent coastlines, all viewed from this spectacular home in Sunderland Bay.Three outstanding bedrooms and a floor plan that is synonymous with free flowing, contemporary living. Embarking on a further look will delight, and fill your hearts desire!

Sea the view...Love the view

$695,000

Absolute foreshore position. A rare and magnificent vacant allotment. With an array of bonuses such as underground electricity services, close proximity to the general store and being positioned in an enviable vantage point right above the crashing surf, it has everything that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for . . . and then some!

85 Thompson Ave, Cowes, Phillip Island. p. 03 5952 6633 www.foxsocks.com.au SPRING FINAL.indd 61

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surfersparadise Colin and Melinda Vanderstaayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning property has the local surfers looking twice. The iron and fibro masterpiece mimics the waves rolling in beyond the dunes at Surf Beach, Phillip Island.

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the

couple moved from Traralgon in 1996, when Mel was offered a job at the Phillip Island Nature Park. The couple spent almost every weekend down at the coast prior to moving, enjoying beach walks and surfing, so it made for an easy transition. They bought their first block of land at Cape Woolamai and would often sit on the grassy dune with a wine in hand, watch the sun set, and dream of the house they would build there one day. Mel Vanderstaay married every girl’s dream - a husband that is a designer AND a builder. The couple have been able to shift and build to accommodate their lifestyle changes. So it begs the question, how often does a designer/builder move house? “As often as your lifestyle changes,” says Colin. “The first house I built was purely a bachelor pad, a place where a young guy could hang on his own, or with his mates. When we moved to the Island, we built a house together designed for a couple, and as the kids came along, we built a house that we live in now. I wanted this house to be child friendly – a place where all the family could be together, and the whole back yard could be used as a play area.” With three new additions Will (6), Kelsey (3) and baby Alana (4 months), Colin has created a stunning, architecturally designed home that’s family friendly to boot! Their current home pushes the boundaries of what you’d imagine a family home to be. It is a light, chic and stylish contemporary home, with the surprising feature of being entirely practical for raising a family. “Bikes come inside the house, chooks, whatever, it’s designed that way - you can’t ruin anything,” Colin laughs. “We’ve used inexpensive surfaces that are low maintenance, so it doesn’t matter.” His philosophy for building and designing is that houses should ‘work’. “By work, I mean they should capture the best elements of the day. Houses don’t need to be just shelter.” Not all elements of weather are bad, and Colin considers this carefully when designing a house for a site. “The wind is good on a hot summer’s day, and the sun is good on a cold winter’s day. So it’s these desirable elements you try to capture. I think you always start with a site and that poses problems. Good design is just problem solving – which is the hardest part. Architecture is solving the problem beautifully – which makes it even harder.” Looking around their home makes Colin’s theory come to life. The large cantilevered glass door panel seamlessly joins the kitchen and dining room to the back deck, garden and play area. In summer, the upstairs windows are opened to allow cooling easterly winds to flow through the house, eliminating the need for air conditioning. As the

house is low and squat to the south, and high to the north, the sun can penetrate deeply into the house during winter, providing an abundance of natural heating. Colin likes to use ordinary materials in an extraordinary way. “ If I can help it, I don’t use paint – so the house ages gracefully.” Products like fibro cement and corrugated iron can be left unpainted for a lifetime, and, in Colin’s opinion, “they get better with age.” He laughs, “Laziness leads me to using maintenance-free materials which blend beautifully with the surrounding vegetation and sand dunes. The colour of iron reflects the colours of the day, and on a blue day the roofline blends into the horizon. Clever features in the house have been designed with a young family in mind. Glass portholes at ankle level give little people a view of the world, while also allowing for light and privacy. Col mentions that when visiting kids come over, rather than playing with other toys, they will sit for hours rolling toy cars in the windows. “We’ve tried to cater for different age groups and different hobbies and combine them all into one practical space.” Col and Mel can enjoy a drink with their friends at the dining table, and be only a few feet away from the kids bouncing away on the trampoline, or climbing on the play area. “It’s about keeping the family together,” says Col. “Just because adults and kids are in a house, doesn’t mean they can’t all be doing what they would like to do, and be together in the same space.” The house is cleverly zoned, which means the family area is open and available to all of the family’s needs, while the bedrooms are set off to the side for privacy and quiet time. Mel’s favourite part of the house is the view she gets from the bedroom window. “We look out onto the dunes and see echidnas and wallabies – it’s very special.” Col has designed the garden with wildlife in mind, and it has become so attractive to local wildlife that they have come to expect a visit from white heron at their pond every day. The pair discovered Landcare, and have planted hundreds of native species in their garden. Col says,“You can emulate what you see on a beach or a riverbank in your garden,” and he has done this very cleverly. As the sun starts to sink in the sky, the huge glass door is closed. Shearwaters fly in over the dunes looking for their burrows, and the family snuggles up around the fire for another night in their own little hideaway. Their perfect family home. C If you would like to contact this visionary building designer, call Colin Vanderstaay on phone 0409 694 270.

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San Remo Realty When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re selling

what you want is... Professional Service Knowledge Experience Honesty

Work with us to achieve the best possible outcome 9/95 Marine Parade, San Remo Ph: 56785 141 www.sanremorealty.com.au

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onnature’sdoorstep A pocket of pristine wilderness snakes its way down to Anderson’s Inlet, right past the front doors of Inverloch locals.

Words Benjamin Wells Photos Maria Reed & Warren Reed It’s hard to believe the Screw Creek reserve was once just a big beach. This was over 25,000 years ago, possibly around the time the Aboriginals of the Bunurong tribe first fossicked for shells and fished for the abundant bass yabby and bream. The beach is now further out to sea, but fishermen still chase the same catch, which remains prolific. Nobody, including those at the Inverloch Historical Society, is sure how the creek was named. Perhaps a settler in the late 1800’s merely noticed how it winds its way down from the nearby foothills, turning this way and that. The locals consider themselves privileged to be so close to the reserve, especially those who’ll be moving into the new residential retirement development, Broadbeach Inverloch. Just outside their doors, they’ll have to share it only with bushwalkers, nature observers and the gentle folk of bird watching societies.

Beautiful birds and beasts make their home in and around Screw Creek and its surrounding wetlands. Swamp Harriers and White Faced Herons are regularly magnified under bird watcher’s binoculars. Most impressive are the majestic Royal Spoonbills. You might spy them feeding on crustaceans and molluscs by sweeping their spoon shaped bill side to side through the water. If you are lucky you might spot the famous but endangered Orange Bellied Parrot. The subject of recent publicity and controversy, this parrot is rumoured to use the reserve as an occasional resting place. Screw Creek is home to some of the world’s southern most mangroves and is one of Inverloch’s major attractions. As an unspoilt estuarine sanctuary, it offers a variety of scenes to soothe the senses - water, land, flora and fauna. It’s easy to get to and there are several walking tracks, so you can explore it for yourself. C

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words Jamie Pollock, foxsocks

missing your target

On the surface it just appeared like any one of thousands of property transactions I had witnessed through the years in real estate - but it wasn’t. As an agent, this sale would prove a defining moment in my life. A young independent women, Charlie (not her real name) had recently landed a job here, making the great sea change. Charlie was quite matter-of-fact. She was organized and deliberate in the way she went about her search for a new home. I’ll never know her motive for moving here. I assumed without prying that she had recently returned from a lengthy stint abroad, her guarded emotions left me wondering if perhaps she was starting fresh after a failed painful relationship. Whatever the motive, I was now showing her through prospective new homes from a list which she had prepared after weeks of painstaking research and deliberation. Within days her list had narrowed to just one property. Although she insisted there were others of interest, I intuitively knew she had fallen for this one and was now preparing me for a negotiation. After her second inspection she presented me with a fair offer, during the ensuing phone calls over the next 48 hours a deal was reached, with the only condition pending the approval of bank finance. I prepared all the relevant paperwork which goes with making such a transaction legal, and had them ready for Charlie to sign at the agreed time of 5.45pm the following evening in my office. Charlie walked into the office with her father who was providing moral support. Charlie’s father was a tall powerfully-built man with a slow rolling gait. Dressed in dusty jeans, t-shirt and steel capped work boots, he had obviously walked straight in from a days work. He shook my hand, and I embraced the rough dry grip of a man who’s body had been no stranger to a honest life of hard physical labour. Like my own father, Charlie’s dad was a man who kept his feelings hidden…a man of few words. His strong physical presence may have provided Charlie with that childhood feeling of invincibility and reassurance. Both father and daughter seemed awkward and tentative as Charlie signed her purchase contracts, exhaling a painfully drawn out sigh. Although I knew instinctively Charlie wanted this home, I could now sense a painful apprehension within the office. The inner sanctum of my thoughts was then interrupted by the sound of Charlie’s mobile phone ringing. Upon answering she stared expressionless at the wall behind my desk. Charlie was concentrating intensely on every word uttered by the caller. “Mmm, okay, okay. . .yes, okay, thankyou.” The call ended. Charlie calmly returned the phone to her hand bag and turned to her father and said, “that was the bank manager. I got the loan!” In that split second every negative emotion was washed from the room with Charlie’s glowing smile. Her posture became upright and she now viewed the paperwork with great optimism rather than apprehension. She was like a child - beaming! Still her father had not moved a muscle, I caught a glimpse of a single tear drop running down the old man’s giant cheek. It was a priceless moment to witness the emotion of a father seeing his child achieve one of life’s defining moments. I would never be privy to all that had taken place in this girl’s life, but I somehow knew this purchase represented a monumental turning point; an exciting new start to her life. I too, felt a renewed wave of appreciation to all my clients that had not merely had me trading their houses, but rather I was helping them all achieve their dreams. The privilege of this moment lives with me today. Only ever seeing my father once cry, I may have been forgiven for once saying that real men don’t cry. But I can tell you Charlie’s father wasn’t the only bloke in the room with a tear in his eye that day. I was moved beyond words. Upon reflection I feel blessed to be a part of some of your neighbours’ life-defining moments. Helping people to fulfil their dreams - like Charlie’s…that’s the real deal! C

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