2 About Us The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Hepburn Shire. The next edition is due out on Monday, March 3. (Then we go weekly!) Advertising deadlines: Space bookings: Wednesday, February 26 Copy provided by: Thursday, February 27 Editorial deadline: Thursday, February 27 Editor: Donna Kelly Photography: Kyle Barnes Sales: Donna Kelly and Kyle Barnes Graphic designer: Glen Heyne Sub-editors: Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Editorial and sales - 5348 7883 / 0416 104 283 dhslocal@gmail.com / dhslocal.com.au e-photo sales - $20 e-edition at www.tlnews.com.au Like us on Facebook! Front cover: Begonia expert Jock Chase with the amazing display at the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. Full story p14. Image: Kyle Barnes
Make your next event count with The Local’s media partnership arrangements. Call Donna or Kyle to find out how The Local can help out your community event. 5348 7883
The Local
News 3
Not so good night but at least you can sleep tight
L
IKE most good ideas, once it’s made, it seems pretty simple.
A bed in a box. Retired plumber, and Daylesford’s Men’s Shed vice-president, John Smith, created the bed with the idea it would be perfect for use in evacuation scenarios. Mr Smith, pictured above right with Bob Thannhauser, ticked off three “musts” with his invention. “The first was that it was off the floor, because older people can find it hard to get down on a mattress on the floor, and probably not get up again without help,” he said. “Two was the privacy. It has curtains you can draw around it for women, children, families. “And three, in a situation where you have evacuated your home, you usually
have valuables, and it has a lockable storage area for jewellery or papers.” Mr Smith created his first bed in a box about two years ago and the Daylesford Men’s Shed is now talking with Rotary International about a joint venture. “The boxes can be stored and we thought they could be stored away by councils or emergency services and then shipped to wherever they are needed. “You can get quite a few on a trailer. They weigh just under 30 kilograms and were built with the idea they might be used by kids as a trampoline or a guy weighing 100 kilograms.” Mr Smith said the bed in a box prototype had cost about $600 to make but that cost would come down significantly if they were manufactured on a professional basis. “Australia has fires, floods, natural disasters. These are perfect for those situations.”
4 History
The Local
Couple far from interlopers as history shows
Holly Cottage: Isabella (Bella) McMaster (nee Atkinson) with seven of her nine children. Below, Isabella and her daughter Ret (Margaret). Left, Margaret and Rob McDonald.
W
HEN Margaret and Robert McDonald first settled at Sailors Falls in the 1980s they found it particularly galling to have a few “locals” refer to them as “interlopers from the city”. Here they reveal the truth in “a story untold”. “Little did they know of the rich history we brought with us,” Mr McDonald told The Local. “Margaret’s grandmother was born and raised on the very property we currently occupy. “She was born in 1889 as one of nine children and probably went to school at Muskvale. “Margaret’s great great grandparents settled in Sailors Falls around 1864 and initially occupied Holly Cottage which still stands today in Telegraph Road and is owned by Brian Boase.” In 1874 her great grandmother Isabella Atkinson
married David McMaster and lived in a miner’s cottage on the site of 1067 Telegraph Road. This cottage was demolished by order of the Hepburn Shire Council in the 1980s, he said. Mr McDonald said the cottage had two bedrooms - for a family of 11 - and featured a weatherboard structure, dirt floors, thatched roof and internal walls lined with hessian and newspaper. “Nine children were born here and times were particularly harsh,” he said. “The family engaged in mining, eucalyptus distilling and forestry. “Three of the children died here, one from burns, one from a forest accident and one is alleged to have been shot by bushrangers whilst guarding a gold shipment.” Mr McDonald said grandmother Isabella and
Margaret’s aunt Nance McPherson had left some records which showed that they had no transport and walked to Daylesford for supplies, probably because they could not afford the coach fares. Isabella worked in Trentham for a Scottish family as a servant and was also chosen to go to school because she was the only one who had shoes. The McDonalds now live on the site of the original cottage.
*Margaret and Rob McDonald own and operate Sailors Falls Estate’s Villas and Vines as self-contained accommodation and a vineyard/cellar door.
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News 5
The Local
Street fix
I
T WAS quiet enough to shoot a cannon down the main street of Daylesford last week.
Hepburn Shire Council closed off Vincent Street for resurfacing works on Tuesday and half of Wednesday. However many traders and residents said the job was “a patch up” and it would not be long before the asphalt would start to lift. One trader showed The Local a patch of asphalt which was clearly lifting already. The trader said the street should have been completely dug up and not just resurfaced. The council did not return calls by press time.
The Local’s Kyle Barnes was hoping to find someone with a footy to kick down the main street but Daylesford Museum curator Gary Lawrence went one step further...
Celebrating 50 years of history at museum
T
HE Daylesford & District Historical Society will celebrate its 50th birthday with an “Open Day” at the Daylesford Museum on Sunday, March 2.
The event starts at 11am with official proceedings at 2pm followed by afternoon tea. The doors close at 4.30pm. The Daylesford Community Band will provide entertainment. The society was formed in February 1964 after a public meeting at the Daylesford Town Hall. It originally held meetings in various places, including the town hall, the old police station, and private homes, including Wombat Park. It began accumulating its large collection, which was kept in storage until the unused technical school (previously the School of Mines) became its permanent home in December 1969. Work then started on establishing a museum for Daylesford. The museum was officially opened by Tom Evans MLA in April 1971 with 500 people attending. President Ken Warren, pictured with committee member Winsome Menadue, said many people had contributed “a great deal over the years”. “We hope the community, along with all members, past and present,
will join us to celebrate this special occasion.” The museum is at 100 Vincent St, Daylesford.
6 Opinion
The Local
I’m not fat. I’ve just got big bones... Curly’s Say Dear Diary,
I’ve decided it’s more about the exercise than dieting. I am going to run around the yard three times every day. Just the back yard. Mmm. Maybe just half the yard - it’s pretty big out there. And not today. It’s too hot. Perhaps I’ll just take a stroll around the house. Just the lounge. Maybe just to my bowl. Damn. It’s empty. I bet it’s that bloody kelpie cross. I feel exhausted already. I think I’ll take a nap. Zzzz.
- Curly - the tired cocker spaniel cross Dear Diary,
Dear Diary,
Who’s it calling fat? Stupid kelpie cross. I’m just big boned. Well, OK, I might have put on a few pounds and yes, it’s true, I did have to let my collar out a notch, but come on. I’m...14 years old...times...seven dog years....ummm...you do the maths. Surely you’re allowed to slow down a little? Mmm. Perhaps I’ll go on a diet. Big breakfast, small dinner, cut down on the drinking. Water. I feel a little dehydrated just thinking about it. I think I’ll take a nap. Zzzzz.
- Curly - the slightly confused cocker spaniel cross
- Curly - the thirsty cocker spaniel cross
Dear Diary,
Dear Diary, I’ve been so good - but does anyone care? I left three kibbles in my bowl last night but the carers didn’t even notice. Hang on, I think I just saw the kelpie cross eating them. It’s smiling at me. It’s definitely evil. When the carers first took me home it bit me. Hard. They should take it back to the pound. It’s clearly defective. I’m feeling a bit famished. I think I’ll take a nap. Zzzzz.
- Curly - the hungry cocker spaniel cross
I’ve been thinking. I may be carrying a little extra weight but when we went to the vet for my annual check-up Emma said I was fine. I like Emma. I wonder when we are going to see Emma again. Emma, Emma, Emma...Mmm. Maybe if I have a little sleep when I wake up we’ll go and see Emma. I think I’ll take a nap. Zzzzz.
What a great day. I had a big breakfast, walked around the yard, drank plenty of water and the carers tightened my collar a notch. It’s all working. Best of all when me and the kelpie cross were play fighting I bit her really hard. The carers thought the squeal was me and I got lots of pats and she was told she was a “BAD DOG”. I smiled at her. I think I’ll take a nap. Zzzz.
- Curly - the contented cocker spaniel cross
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ChillOut Festival 7
The Local
Decisions, decisions...
I
T’S that time of the year.
Max Primmer, usually mildmannered handyman about town, has to decide what to wear for the ChillOut Festival. Long or short. Sleeves? Ruched? Hot pink? Electric blue? So many decisions. Max is keeping it close to his chest, literally, with a window shopping session at the Daylesford Mill Market resulting in a number of possible options. But, as usual, he’ll probably just get out the sewing machine. The drag queen, in his 60s, takes about 90 minutes to transform into the elegant DiAlysis for Sunday’s street parade. There’s shaving to be done, makeup to be applied, the wig, a dash of jewellery and the heels go on last. And you can be sure Di-Alysis is not a big believer in Coco Chanel’s famous quote “Before you leave the house, take a look in the mirror and take one thing off”. If it’s over the top, glam or bling, it’s just her thing. And where does the name Di-Alysis come from? Max had kidney failure in 2008 but is one of the lucky ones receiving a new kidney in 2010. After dialysis.
Meanwhile, the ChillOut Festival for 2014 starts on Friday, March 7 and will keep its 27,000 plus visitors happy and entertained until Monday, March 10. Friday events include the Slowest Lunch, Heather Peace, Short Fuse and Nat Allison Saturday starts with a scenic bush walk and then there’s high tea, a garden party, CREAM 2014, Dolly Diamond and the ChillOut Bush Dance. Sunday’s street parade is a must-watch event with floats of all shapes and sizes. Then there’s the ChillOut Carnival Day at Victoria Park along with the Dance Party and a Women of Rock show. Plenty of venues are also hosting events - check out the website at chilloutfestival. com.au for all listings. And make sure you grab your copy of the March 3 edition of The Local. As media partners for ChillOut, the edition will have all the listings, events and timetables needed. Local businesses supporting the festival will also be letting readers know what’s available to keep them fed and watered and taking home a few souvenirs. Want a sneak peek? The Local’s March 3 edition will be online at www.tlnews.com.au on Sunday, March 2!
The Local is ChillOut’s Media Partner
The Local’s March 3 edition will have all the maps, events, times and listings of each and every ChillOut venue. Make sure your business makes the most of the festival weekend, and its 27,000 visitors, through The Local. (Advert bookings close on February 25) For the best advertising rates in the most colourful read contact Kyle or Donna on 5348 7883 or dhslocal@gmail.com *The Local is always ready to read at www.tlnews.com.au
8 Our students
The Local
Confidence the key
T
EACHER Elaine McKenna has a lot of faith in her students. And in return her students place their faith in her.
In her fourth year teaching literacy for the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning at Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, Ms McKenna said her first step was building confidence in students who, for one reason or another, the mainstream education system has not worked. “I think you can get kids to do anything if you can get them believing in themselves,” she said. “Building their confidence is the most important thing. Making them feel capable. Because these kids are capable of so much – they are very clever.” Ms McKenna said the smaller class size, ability to have a more flexible teaching style and being able to individualise lessons meant students were graduating with the opportunity of either finding work or moving on to further education. “VCAL is a real stepping stone for these kids. We have had some students who have gone on to do bridging courses for university and I think that’s pretty phenomenal. “I just keep telling them how smart they are and they just need a break.” Ms McKenna said when she first started she used a lot of Michael Moore movies showing students how irony and humour can be used to get messages across. And then there’s Shakespeare. “I never dumb down the work for them. I do Shakespeare with them by putting something on the board and asking them to explain what it means. “Then I tell them ‘well, you understand Shakespeare, so you must be pretty clever’. “It’s all part of getting their confidence up.” Ms McKenna said enrolments were still open and she hoped to hear from “anyone sitting at home who is disengaged from school, it doesn’t matter how old, or just someone wanting to get better qualifications. “They can always just come for a month and see how it goes.” VCAL subjects include literacy, numeracy, work-related skills and personal development skills. Details: daylesford@ourneighbourhood.org.au
Artedeco Artedeco at shop 3/27 Vincent Street, Daylesford specialises in Art Deco, 20th Century and Vintage and the shop is piled high with an everchanging selection of pieces bought on European and American buying trips. Just arrived – a revolving cocktail bar, beautiful dressing table and some occasional tables, jewellery from New York, French Art Deco Bronzes and some vintage dresses from London. With a diverse collection of the best pieces from these eras, there is furniture, lighting, porcelain, original posters and everything else to furnish your home. If you are interested in vintage and couture fashion there is original pieces from 1920 to 1960 including beautiful dresses, costume jewellery from the Art Deco period to the 1960s, hats, and purses all purchased from the best collections in Europe and the U.S At Artedeco everything is chosen for its quality, originality and condition. . We are members of the Australian Art and Antique Dealers Association and CINOA guaranteeing you are buying genuine pieces and have specialised in Art Deco for 12 years.
Our shop is open 7 days 10.00 to 5.00pm. Artedeco, 3/27 Vincent Street, Daylesford 3460 T 0407321865 www.onlineantiques.com.au
The Local St Michael’s Daylesford
St Augustine’s Creswick
Our preps 9 Creswick
Creswick
Yandoit
Newlyn
Creswick
Congratulations to our 2014 Preps! Enjoy the journey. Up, up and away!
10 News
The Local
Facelift for lake change rooms > Celebrate the Power of women with mary Crooks ao international women’s Day honour roll Civic function Mary Crooks will be the keynote speaker at the International Women’s Day (IWD) Honour Roll Civic Function. The civic function will include the announcement of inductees to the 2014 Hepburn Shire Women’s Honour Roll. Mary has been the Executive Director of the Victorian Women’s Trust since 1996. She has an extensive background in public policy and a passionate commitment to social justice.
T
HE change rooms at Lake Daylesford have had a facelift thanks to Daylesford Secondary College students.
The students, including pictured above from left, Nicole Pedley, Leroi van Baer, Liam Murray and Lotus Hackenberger, made the change rooms their community project while attending the School for Student Leadership camp at Dinner Plain in 2012. The students then obtained a youth grant from the Hepburn Shire Council and were also supported by the Daylesford Open Water Swimming Club which provided labour and materials. About 60 volunteer hours went into the project.
Date: Thursday, 6 March 2014 Time: 3pm Venue: Daylesford Town Hall Come along and celebrate the 10th anniversary of International Women’s Day celebrations in Hepburn Shire - there will be entertainment and light refreshments. RSVP by Friday 28 February 2014 to Michelle Collett on mcollett@hepburn.vic.gov.au or (03)5321 6423.
> are you a Quilter? Get involved in an exciting Community Project To commemorate the ten year anniversary, IWD Committee has decided to create the Honour Roll for Women in the form of a quilt, with one square for each of the 36 women who are on the roll. The creation of the quilt is proposed to be a community project. Quilting groups and individual quilters from across the Shire are invited to a meeting in the Council Chambers at the Daylesford Town Hall at 5.00pm on Thursday 27 February 2014 to discuss the project.
Going, going, gone
The Local
News 11
O
NLOOKERS were left stunned as they watched historic gum and cypress trees being felled at 37 Raglan Street, Daylesford earlier this month.
The trees were legally cut down after two aborists’ reports, with one including a risk assessment, were given to Hepburn Shire Council saying the trees were dangerous. Hepburn Shire Mayor Don Henderson said it was “sad to see mature trees cut” and that the council had “demanded a second arborist report from the owner”. “The second report included a risk assessment,” he said. “I have been contacted by people who live in the area and have seen limbs dropping and are glad the trees are gone, to those who say every mature tree should stay. “The problem for council is that we have no legal right to do anything other than what we have already.” The felling has prompted calls for the council to complete its Significant Tree Register. In December last year, after queries from The Local, council chief executive officer Aaron van Egmond said the council had met with Planit Urban Design and Planning, the consultants responsible for the register’s report, and council planned to place the report on public exhibition early this year.
flightplan@daylesfordtravel.com.au
holiday@daylesfordtravel.com.au
03 53484266 4 Howe St Daylesford Vic 3460
BEHIND THE EIGHT BALL: Daylesford’s Senior Constable Ian Wallace with Joell Pudley at The ARC Youth Space
B
ORED teenagers? The ARC Youth Space is open after school every week night. Different activities are held from
3.30pm to 5.30pm with trained volunteers. Activities include creative writing/youth newspaper/study group on Monday nights, art attack with Art with Heart on Tuesdays, a games night with video games, role-playing and board games on Wednesdays and girltalk on Thursdays. The week finishes off on Fridays with movies and 8-ball pool. The ARC is always looking for more volunteers to complete their training and do either regular shifts or just be on call. The centre is run by the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre for the Daylesford Community Action Network and the Daylesford Secondary College. All secondary school-aged teenagers are welcome with the activities complementing The Lounge and holiday programs already in place.
The Local
12 News
Tourism struggle
D
W
ITH The Truman Show Daylesford Secondary College’s year 9 English film text for study for the first term, students made their way to the Daylesford Community Theatre last week.
Teacher Michelle Ainley said viewing the film text on a big screen, as a combined year 9 group and at the local cinema was an invaluable opportunity for students. “It certainly made an enjoyable start to many hours of classroom discussion of the themes and big ideas in The Truman Show,” she said. Daylesford Community Theatre volunteer Stan Harris ran with Ms Ainley’s initial idea for the special group screening and quickly secured permission from the distributor. Costs were covered by the Daylesford District Community Bank.
AYLESFORD Regional Visitor Information Centre is struggling to fill volunteer shifts.
The centre saw three tourism and visitor services staff leave over the past few weeks – one as a redundancy and the other two as resignations. A number of volunteers quit the centre and other said they would not work unless they were in pairs and had support from the back office available when needed. Hepburn Shire Council chief executive officer Aaron van Egmond has kept to his promise to carry out some of his duties from the office behind the centre and it is believed he has also worked at the front desk helping volunteers. Community and Economic Development manager Adam McSwain took on a shift on Saturday, February 8. Meanwhile, Visitor Services team leader Merle Alexander sent an email on Friday, February 7 to the remaining volunteers saying she was in “desperate need of volunteers” in February. A total of 31 shifts from February 10 to February 28 were empty.
BIG SCREEN: Back row, from left, David Gilbert, Jordan Jobe, Steven Mason and Gerard Horvat, middle row, Ngahuia Thompson, Miranda Turbitt, Aidan Mayger, Ethan Daly and Trish Stannus, and front row, Daisy-Bell Kilbourne, Stan Harris, Daylesford Community Bank manager Steven McKinley and Tiger Callahan
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The Local
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News 13
Don’t mix your mushrooms By Alison Pouliot
F
ORAGING for mushrooms is becoming an ever more popular pastime in Victoria. With their earthy fragrances of wet forest, mushrooms truly capture the essence of autumn and add interest to a forest stroll.
Once a tradition of European countries, these days Aussies are also likely to be found in the forest on a misty autumn afternoon foraging for mushrooms. However, those who fancy collecting a few mushies for dinner need to take heed. Among the tasty edible species lurk dangerously poisonous species that could land you up in hospital or even in the grave. If you’re keen to forage for edible mushrooms, always remember that you should never eat a wild mushroom unless you are absolutely certain of its correct identification. Unfortunately the various folkloric sayings about edible fungi always have their poisonous exceptions. As a reminder of the toxicity of some fungi, the appropriately named death cap (Amanita phalloides) has been found in rural Victoria and lived up to its sinister name on two occasions in Australia last autumn. However, there is much more to fungi than those destined for the pan. Although we often don’t think about fungi until mushrooms push through the soil, fungi exist all year underground and are at work maintaining the health of ecosystems. Many species play a vital role in decomposing organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. The Trentham and Creswick neighbourhood houses will hold workshops this autumn to help participants correctly identify fungi and also learn about their important roles in ecosystems. Details: creswicknc.org.au or trenthamnc.org.au
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14 Community Events
What’s up! International Women’s Day Honour Roll Victorian Women’s Trust executive director Mary Crooks will be the keynote speaker at the International Women’s Day Honour Roll civic function on Thursday, March 6 at 3pm. The event will include the announcement of inductees to the 2014 Hepburn Shire Women’s Honour Roll.
DHSBATA Networking The Daylesford & Hepburn Springs Business & Tourism Association is holding the first of its regular business networking sessions for 2014 on February 26 from 8am to 9am at Frangos & Frangos. Members and prospective new members welcome. Details: dhsbata.org.au
The Junction Trivia Night The Junction will provide a space for young people aged 13 to 24 to access weekly educational and social programs. A Trivia Night will be held at the Daylesford Town Hall on Saturday, February 22 from 7pm. Tickets from Fairs Fair, 1 Knox St, Daylesford or Carmel Thannhauser on 0481 022 823.
Piano recital Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, Beethoven’s monumental final sonata Op111 and a selection of the elegant Pieces de Clavecin of Couperin is the program to be played at the 2014 Don Huntley Memorial Piano Recital on Saturday, March 15 from 7.30pm at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts. Ballarat Grammar’s special guest is Dr Timothy Young, head of piano at the Australian National Academy of Music. Details: wcpa.com.au
Got an event coming up? dhslocal@gmail.com
SIP AND MAKE WORKSHOP Make a funky macrame or crocheted cord necklace while enjoying a glass of champagne and a social afternoon
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Workshop is a collaboration between Moss & Burrows and
The Local
Begonias in bloom
P
EOPLE from around the world are taking the time to visit the begonia display at the Wombat Hill Botanic Garden in Daylesford.
The display, which is open every day, will last until Easter, according to Hepburn Shire Council staffer and begonia expert, Jock Chase. Mr Chase has been tending the begonia display for the past eight years adding to stock from Alf Headland’s collection with varied cuttings. “We have people coming from around the world,” he said. “And they’re saying it’s better than Ballarat’s display.” A visitor’s book, only placed by the display recently, has hundreds of comments with people clearly grateful for the work involved. Among them are “have never seen begonia’s so huge” from Japan, “absolutely beautiful and romantic” from Italy, “stunning” from South Africa and “lovely” from Slovenia.
The Local
My Story 15
Rose Moody’s parliament far from riff raff
Wise owls: Rose Moody with just some of her collection
“All my owls have something about them – they’re not riff raff owls.”
W
ATCH out Australian pollies – Daylesford’s Rose Moody has created her own parliament – and even better, not a single one speaks.
Ms Moody, who has had a fascination with owls since childhood, has collected more than 100 of the birds with more on the way. There are ceramic owls, glass owls, metal owls, photos of owls and even owl towels. And the collective noun of owls, as we all know, is parliament. Ms Moody, who grew up in the UK, said she visited a farm in Wales when she was just five and was surprised, knowing owls are nocturnal creatures, to see them flying around during the day. Her mother informed her they were little owls – and the only owls which are non-nocturnal. The family also visited Ireland regularly and spending time in the barn at night she became acquainted with barn owls. “I was fascinated as a child and all my life I have collected owls. When I go on holiday I might buy one and friends give them to me. “All my owls have something about them – they’re not riff raff owls.” But the owls do have something in common. They are all named using the three letters OWL. There’s Bartholomew, Oswald, Woodly, Waldo, Owlusious, Willow and, the very proper, Sir Laurence Owlivier. Sir Laurence is also the oldest owl, dating back to the 1850s, and given to Ms Moody by her mother, who was given it by her own mother. “I told my mother that owl was all I ever wanted and she came over on a holiday and had it all wrapped up in bubble wrapping. “She said ‘I’ve got you something from duty free’. I
just cried.” The next step for Ms Moody and her owl fascination is an arctic owl tattoo on the back of her neck. “Then I’ll have eyes in the back of my head – what a hoot!” When she’s not collecting owls, or thinking up names, Ms Moody works as an oncology nurse at Ballarat Base Hospital. She describes it as “the best time in nursing” in her 40-year career. “We laugh, we cry, it’s death, it’s living. There are sad times with the young ones - but I love my job.” Ms Moody moved to Daylesford with her partner Helen Hucker 13 years ago. They bought, and Ms Hucker ran, Daylesford Country Classics for six years. “Helen was in the rag trade and it was a very stressful job. One weekend here we saw the shop and as we crossed the road I knew we were going to buy it.” And the move to Australia? “I came to Australia in 1989 because my twin brother said I should come out on a holiday. “I would have loved to have lived in London but I couldn’t afford it – and when I came to Australia, I thought ‘I can afford to live here’.” Another brother, actor Colin Moody, also made the move. And you can see Ms Moody too has a bit of “acting” spirit in her. Literally. She has just finished filming an episode of Millionaire Hot Seat and it should run next month. Meanwhile, Ms Moody wants anyone else with a collection to get in touch with The Local. “Not owls, of course. That’s done. But it would help us to learn a little bit more about each other,” she said. The Local agrees. Too wit too woo!
16 What’s happening
The Local
Jimmy Frangos is almost ready to throw open the doors to the Frangos Swiss Mountain Hotel and Store
Jimmy breathes life into Swiss Mountain
A
NYONE driving through Blampied lately would have noticed a couldn’t drink it, and I’m not talking St Patrick’s Day, but still people came. It is the oldest continuously running hotel in Australia. fair bit of activity at the Swiss Mountain Hotel.
Closed for a few years, the hotel is starting to really take shape again under the watchful eye of owner Jimmy Frangos. That’s Jimmy from Jimmy’s Bar and Frangos and Frangos in Daylesford. The Daylesford long-termer took time out to chat with The Local’s Donna Kelly. Donna: So Jimmy, what are you hoping to create at the Swiss Mountain Hotel? Jimmy: Well, like you, I am very much aiming for locals and a local pub. I want to recognise the drinkers who come in here and have them feel they don’t even need to ask for a drink because myself and the staff will know what they drink. We don’t want to be just grabbing their money, that’s the last thing we want. We will pull them a beer and if they are just having one they can put their money down, or if they’re having another, they put their money down after that. That’s old school and that’s want I want. Donna: What’s on the menu? Jimmy: We’ll have good food at a price that’s affordable. I want to provide good hotel food of excellent quality and ingredients. Like we aim for at Jimmy’s and Frangos. And there will be what I call pub favourites – food that never goes out of style. Donna: Anything else happening? Jimmy: We’ll do functions for people, we’ll do art exhibitions and we’ll also have a food store here with local wines, vegetables, food. Like a farmgate but one gate for all the farms. We’ll also have a brewery and we’ll be baking our own bread. But that’s all down the track and we’ll develop as we go like Frangos did. Donna: You seem to have an affinity with buildings with history? Jimmy: Yeah, but I fell in love with the Swiss Mountain back in 1972. I came out here with a bloke who used to work with me. They were holding a walkathon to raise money for something and he wanted to show me the local pubs. But he really just wanted to show me there was a photo of him on the wall. I’ve got a load of old photos of people like the LaFranchis and others who have owned the pub going back to the 1980s. From that day on I just came out here. The beer was green, you
Donna: So when can people expect the Frangos Swiss Mountain Hotel and Store to open its doors? Jimmy: I’m aiming for end of February or March. I’ll open in a fashion. It won’t be complete – I just want to get the bar open. It might even just be an ice bucket full of cans and I’ll give them away. *Trivia: The Swiss Mountain Hotel was named the Manchester Hotel in the 1860s by its builder Louis Blampied – after whom the town was named. It was changed to the Swiss Mountain Hotel in the 1880s by Andre LaFranchi.
“Like a farmgate but one gate for all the farms.”
The Local
News 17
Council recognises hard work and commitment
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WO community groups and two citizens have been recognised for their hard work and commitment by Hepburn Shire Council in its Australia Day Awards.
The council could not choose just one Community Event of the Year, instead honouring both the 175th anniversary celebration of Smeaton Settlement and the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens’ Great Day in the Gardens Smeaton spokesman Rod Cosgrave, pictured with the group above, said the recognition was “a great result for the community”. “Smeaton residents came together and were so enthusiastic about doing something for the 175 year celebrations. “It’s a great reward for them.” Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens president Patrice O’Shea, pictured above right with some of the Friends, said it was wonderful to be recognised by the community. “And that particular 150th event represented our gift to the gardens of the comprehensive restoration of the cascade. “The cost was $65,000 but then there was just the enormous physical effort. In terms of volunteers’ labour of love - at times we had up to 50 people. “So it was the money and time and just real physical effort - and to have that recognised was wonderful.” Meanwhile, Young Citizen of the Year, Dylan Godfrey, pictured below right, said he was “pretty surprised” when his name was called at the Daylesford Town Hall ceremony. The 18-year-old, who joined Daylesford CFA three years ago, said his family had a tradition of fire-fighting with his grandfather, cousins and uncle all involved. “It’s kind of a family thing. I’m actually turning out tomorrow.” Dylan said he had finished Year 12 last year and was taking a couple of months off to decide on what further learning was best for him. He said his family were “happy as” with the recognition. Citizen of the Year went to Robert Kennedy for his work at the Glenlyon Reserve. Mr Kennedy was not able to be contacted before press time.
18 Advertorial
The Local
Some real advice on financing your new home
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HEN it comes to finding your dream home, it pays to have a plan that will take into account all the factors needed to make your dream a reality.
Buying your home doesn’t have to be the stress filled experience that many people go through and, with the right approach, it can be a smooth undertaking. Daylesford District Community Bank manager Steven McKinley offers a sixstep plan to help guide you through the process - it’s a useful guide to help you attend to the more important issues involved in getting into your dream home. Step 1: Set a budget Review your income and regular expenses as well as money left over at the end of the month - this can be put aside for your deposit. Your Community Bank can help you with a savings account with fewer fees, a good return and the features you need. Step 2: Eliminate debt The less money you owe elsewhere, the better position you’ll be on for a home loan Set about consolidating any other debt or look for a credit card like the Bendigo Basic Black Credit Card, with an every day low interest rate. Step 3: Little things add up Simple changes to your spending patterns can mean big savings with minimal impact on your lifestyle. Identify your discretionary spending - and cut back! Step 4: Be realistic Even though some lenders may let you borrow up to 100 per cent of a property’s value, this can put you under pressure when it comes time to make your repayments. Save as big a deposit as possible to minimise the amount you need to borrow. Step 5: Talk to your lender Before you start actively looking for your new home, your community bank can tell you how much you can afford to borrow. This is a critical step that will give
you a guide as to what you can afford Step 6: Budget for the unexpected Before you make your leap into the property market, make sure you’re aware of all the unexpected costs and build a buffer into your budget.
The Rex Community Theatre
Customer Service officer Yvette Muratti talks home loan steps with a customer *To discuss your personal banking requirements, call into the Daylesford District Community Bank at 97 Vincent Street, and speak to our friendly, experienced staff or call 5348 4186 to make an appointment. We’re also open 9am to noon on Saturdays for extra convenience.
47-53 Vincent St
What’s Tuesday 18th February! 3pm! Philomena (M)! 6pm! Saving Mr Banks (PG)! Wednesday 19th February! 8.30pm Rod Quantock! Friday 21st February! 7pm! The Railway Man (M)
Saturday 22nd February! 4pm! Philomena (PG)! 8pm! The Railway Man (M)! Sunday 23rd February! 3pm !The Railway Man (M)! 6pm! Philomena (M)
Daylesford VIC 3460
On Tuesday 25th February! 3pm !The Railway Man (M)! 6pm! Philomena (M)! Friday 28th February! 7pm! Anchorman 2 (M) www.therex.org.au daylesfordcommunitytheatre
News 19
PLANTS ON SALE 10 - 12 am every Thursday morning and first Sunday morning each month at the
Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens potting area, adjacent to Wombat Hill House
Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens POBox 267 Daylesford friends @wombathill.org
Bullarto residents keep busy
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ULLARTO residents will get together at the Bullarto Hall this month to meet each other and celebrate the return of the Daylesford Spa Country Railway service and the construction of new buildings in the station area. The event is planned for Thursday, February 27 from 7pm. A range of volunteer organisations will also be offering information. Bullarto Community Planning Group members Gary McIntosh, Gayle Walker, Meredith Borlin and Mary and Don Harvey are organising the event. Mr McIntosh said residents were encouraged to discuss ideas that interest them, join a volunteer group or simply get information. Other events happening soon in Bullarto are the 20th Bullarto Tractor Pull on Sunday, March 9 and the formal reopening of the rail services to Bullarto on Saturday, March 15. Details: bullartocommunity@skymesh.com.au
Grants up for grabs
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OMMUNITY groups and organisations looking for funding help for projects and activities involving community strengthening and/ or events, arts and culture, small equipment, defibrillator, sustainability, LandCare and Anzac centenary celebrations can apply to Hepburn Shire Council. The council’s second round of 2013-14 Community, Sustainability, LandCare and ANZAC Centenary Grants Program opens tomorrow, February 18. Guidelines, writing tips and application forms are available on the council’s website and from offices. Applications close on March 28. Details: Dianne Van Der Veer on 5321 6461.
5348 2130
Wednesday 6pm – 8pm
Raising funds for Daylesford Youthspace is a great excuse for a very long lunch
Dining 21
The Local
I Fully Licensed
Call for bookings 0414 830 435
F YOU’VE ever needed an excuse for a long lunch – it’s here.
The Regional World’s Longest Lunch will be held at the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve on Friday, March 14. And it’s all for a good cause. Money raised will go to the Daylesford Youthspace – a “third-space” for kids to hang out, learn new skills and have fun. Event organiser Bettina Ralph said it was the fifth longest lunch she had “been honoured to be able to help with”. “We are so lucky to have such amazing chefs, producers, musicians and artisans whom are all coming together with such gusto to raise money for our kids.” Part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the longest lunch will include entertainment from the Daylesford Swing Band, who will also offer silver service, and an array of left bank-style artists courtesy of Clay Space artisans in Daylesford. The lunch includes the best produce the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region has on offer with chefs Christian Reuther, Andrew Dennis, David Wilcocks, Richard Mee and Kylie Himmerman looking forward to wowing diners. Daylesford Hotel’s Anne-Marie Banting will match a selection of top shelf-wines from around the area. Ms Banting said it was an exciting opportunity to match great regional food cooked by passionate local chefs with fantastic local wine. “Macedon Ranges and Daylesford surrounds boasts an array of cool climate wines made by equally passionate winemakers.” Community causes to have previously benefited from the lunch have included the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden at the Daylesford Primary School, the Daylesford Circus kids and young people in hospitality training locally. Tickets for the lunch are $140 per head. Bookings essential at melbournefoodandwine.com.au, info@specialtouch.com.au or 0423 630 674.
“We are so lucky to have such amazing chefs, producers, musicians and artisans.”
105 Central Springs Road
Photo courtesy of Best of Daylesford
The Local
22 Dining Review
Vegan virtuosity Words: Nick Bunning Image: Lindsay Smith
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AYLESFORD and Hepburn have garnered a well-deserved reputation as being a paradise for lovers of good food. The quality of food and range of cuisines on offer to us is staggering. However, in recent times, those searching for a dedicated vegan or vegetarian menu haven’t exactly been spoiled for choice.
Luckily that situation has taken a distinct turn for the better, as Hepburn Springs Chalet recently started holding a Vegan Night every Thursday in its funky 60s-style Lounge Bar. Manager Jarret Hogarth wanted to create something new, which would entice locals to experience the buzz of an evening spent chilling out with great food, wine and music in the Chalet’s unique retro atmosphere. So he got together with renowned local chef Alexis Pitsopoulos, who spent around 25 years creating vegan banquets on Saturday evenings at Hepburn’s Continental House. They started the Vegan Night at the Chalet about six weeks ago, and both say the response from locals has been “excellent” – and it’s continuing to grow! Alexis focuses on sourcing the best quality, freshest ingredients (locally wherever possible) with
an emphasis on seasonal availability. And it works, because his food is delicious. On arrival, affable barman Owen suggested we start with a ‘Spring Sling’ cocktail ($12). Among its ingredients are gin, apple and plum vinegar – and local mineral water, straight from the pump. A perfect drink for a warm summer evening. A quick peruse of the ‘mirror menu’ (which changes every week) revealed such tempting delicacies as samosas with lemon pepper, tomato and capsicum sauce ($8), locally made tempeh with steamed carrot, green beans and sweet soy sauce ($8) and fried enoki and shimeji mushrooms ($8). Also available were four enticing salads at just $4 each, and two dips (zucchini/bean/garlic, and cauliflower with pickled green chili) at $10 for the two, including shepherd’s bread.
By this stage we were dizzy with indecision, so took the sensible option of sharing a mixed platter ($30 for two people) which allows you to sample most of the menu items. We couldn’t resist adding a serve of wedges with smoked paprika and a tomato, capsicum and lemon pepper sauce ($8) – and were glad we did. Best wedges we’ve had in ages. The Chalet offers a good selection of local wines from $7 a glass, or $25 per bottle. We both opted for a glass of Fontanella pinot grigio ($8) which proved an ideal accompaniment to our meal. There is plenty of room to spread out so we chose a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the retro music being spun on vinyl (remember that?). Before long our mixed platter arrived. It was beautifully presented and without exception, everything we had was fresh, tangy and delicious. We were both raving about the sprouted red lentil salad, and my partner Lindsay loved the cucumber, wood ear and walnut salad. I couldn’t get enough of the dips, and the broccoli with fried ginger was yet another winner. It was a great way to spend a Thursday evening, and we can’t wait to go back and see what Alexis has on the menu next time!
Hepburn Springs Chalet, 78 Main Road, Hepburn Springs. Phone 5348 2344. Lounge Bar open Thurs - Sun 4pm till late. Vegan Night every Thursday.
The Local
Gigs 23
Gigs!
Glenlyon General Store, Glenlyon Mark & Miles - Friday, February 21 - 6.30 pm Bella Frisky - Friday, February 28 - 6.30 pm
The Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Nat Allison - Friday, February 21 - 9 pm Taylor Sheridan - Saturday, February 22 - 9 pm Sarah Wilkinson - Sunday, February 23 - 5 pm Desperately Seeking - Friday, February 28 - 9 pm Cyndi Boste - Sunday, March 2 - 4 pm
Perfect Drop, Daylesford The Cartwheels - Saturday, February 22 - 7pm Pugsley Buzzard - Saturday, March 1 - 7pm
The Savoia Hotel, Hepburn Live music - Saturday nights
Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville Cat & Clint - Thursday, February 20 - evening Table Hill - Friday, February 21 - evening Pennyweight - Saturday, February 22 - lunch Geoffrey Williams - Saturday, February 22 - evening Liz Frencham - Sunday, February 23 - lunch
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USIC in the raw, crafted from real life, infused with sounds from Memphis, to the Mississippi Delta, to the hills of Central Victoria.
Table Hill consists of a mountain dulcimer playing gal from Memphis - Carla Maxwell, a local singer songwriter steeped in folk and blues - Adrian Kosky, and a saw playing, harmonica wielding local poet who brings triangle playing to a whole new level Phil McNamara. Together they weave and spin a gumbo of fiddle tunes, original songs and timeless traditions, bound together with a sense of lively fun. Table Hill occasionally has friends joining them in the musical mayhem, like Tony Soccio on the mandolin and Ken Parfrey on the slide guitar. They play where they are invited, and sometimes when they’re not‌
Welcome to The Farmers Arms Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner
No bookings are required, simply come in, grab yourself a seat and order food and drinks at the bar For more information about the pub and also our current menu, please visit our website:www.thefarmersarms.com.au 1 East Street Daylesford ph. 03 5348 2091
24 News
The Local
Swimmers take on lake
red nonna Simple food. Simply Italian.
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3 Howe Street, Daylesford // (03) 5348 3367 Open every day (except Wednesday) 8am – 5pm WIMMERS braved chilly waters on Sunday to take part in the annual Lake Daylesford Classic.
The event raises money for the Fundacao Lafaek Diak (The Good Crocodile Foundation) which is based in the Triloka area of the Baucau district of East Timor. The foundation’s centre provides health care, training, education and employment opportunities to 12 villages in the region. Last year the race raised US$400 for the centre. One of the organisers, Greg Stewart, pictured finishing above left, with Ross Hardie, said a number of Springs Medical Centre staff had visited the centre. “It’s a community based health care centre, a grass roots organisation - a great little clinic,” he said. Dr Stewart said last year 25 swimmers had taken part. On Sunday, a record 39 swimmers started with just one not completing the lap around the lake. Men’s winner was Martin Joy in 14 minutes and 51 seconds while the women’s winner was Amanda Flattery in 18 minutes and 23 seconds. And for the record, Dr Stewart came fifth overall with a respectable time of 17 minutes and 54 seconds.
Image/Words: Donna Kelly
DAYLESFORD HOUSE n The Germa u a st rant Country Re
105 Vincent St Daylesford Vic 3460 Tel 03 5348 4224 daylesfordhouse.com
The Local
Our musos! Words/Image - Jack Larm
M
ICHAEL Sunjack was born into a musically rich family. His mother was the singer of the iconic O’Dowd Family Showband and, even while she was pregnant with Michael, she took to the stage.
At the age of six, he had a deep fascination with music, remembering clearly how he had to reach up to the keys of the family piano on tippy toes just to make a sound. At 13, he was recruited to play bass guitar for the family band. But Michael was always enchanted by the piano and as a young man he practiced for up to eight hours a day. During this time, he immersed himself in almost every musical genre from classical, rock, blues and, in particular, jazz and improvisation. One pivotal moment came when he discovered an album of Beatles’ ballads. “I played that record until it was worn out,” Michael recalls. “Suddenly, I realised the power of lyrics and how they could transport you to other worlds.” As much as he understood the influence of music to stimulate emotions, Michael had one burning question for which he never really received a satisfactory answer: how does music work? In many ways this enigma forced him to always think about the music he was creating. “As strange as it sounds, I try never to lose sight
Musos 25
of the negative space, the silence,” he says. “Often you have to find a way to frame the sound and I think you do this with silence.” As an established musician, he has performed in the Middle East and Europe. He and his partner, Lola Dubois, performed almost 450 gigs on a cruise ship. Time out meant spending four months camping on a Canadian island writing and recording an album. Never one to sit idle, Michael usually has several projects going at once. He and his partner perform regularly at Crown Casino’s Mahogany Room as Lola and the Love Cats, covering such greats as Miles Davis, Nina Simone and Billie Holiday. This week, Michael Sunjack released his latest offering, Sunshine Alibi, which finds him back to his songwriting roots and, perhaps, to his continued exploration of that one burning question. However, one can’t help thinking that the nine songs on offer go a long way to answering that illusive question. It’s quite obvious that Michael is not only an accomplished singer and songwriter, but also someone who does it with honesty and passion. To find out more, visit sunjack.net His current CD is available at the Red Pepper Gallery, Daylesford.
2/03/14
The Local
Producers Day draws crowd to Lake House
A HEARTY breakfast with producers and foodies alike started the 11th Producers Day at Lake House. And many of the producers, like Wayne Burt (pictured above next to Alla WolfTasker) offered up interesting tidbits about their businesses.
News 27
28 Business Guide
Promote your business here from just $25!
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HOME DELIVERY COMING SOON!
Country Environmental Waste Mario and Jeanette
Weekly/fortnightly/monthly rubbish collections 0434 170 482 | 5348 4605 cewpl@iprimus.com.au
ian petty legal 53 North Vincent Street Daylesford 3460 5348 1080 Fax by arrangement ianpettylegal@gmail.com
For your new business website Scalable, flexible, to do business On time, to spec, no surprises Handover to you or a hands off plan
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Daylesford Newsagency & Tattslotto 45 Vincent St, Daylesford 5348 2061 Newspapers, magazines, Tattslotto, drycleaning, stationery, photocopying and more. We stock The Local!
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Business Guide 29
Lic No. 39900
Specialising in: . .Water . . Drainage Gas
Rooong
PENSIONER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
NOW INSTALLING BUSHFIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS Aordable Fire Services to suit most budgets
Phone Gary Wilkinson: 0409 131 128 or 5348 4373
Moss Shading Solutions for Hepburn Shire’s total shading solutions talk to Brian & Deborah Moss
> COunCil COmmunity miCROCHiPPing Day Responsible Pet Ownership in the Hepburn Shire To encourage responsible pet ownership in our Shire, Council will be holding a community microchipping day on 2 March 2014.
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RING FOR QUOTATION / ADVICE 5348 4045 8B, 38 EAST ST, DAYLESFORD (NO SHOWROOM)
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TI SA RI TS TO IS O L M CIA FY PE S
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Internal blinds Roller & sunscreen Roman blinds Shutters
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Exterior awnings Folding arm Tension systems Drop screen
Microchipping provides animals with a permanent and lifetime identification chip (injected between the pets shoulder blades). Pet owners are required by law to have their dogs and cats microchipped before Council can accept registration applications, including animals being registered for the first time with Hepburn Shire. Microchipping will be offered at a discounted rate of $30. The service will be available at the Council’s Duke Street office in Daylesford from 10am until 1.00pm. To make an appointment call Julie Breed on 5321 6444 or jbreed@hepburn.vic.gov.au.
DAYLESFORD FLOOR COVERINGS Your LOCAL flooring experts cnr East and Mink Streets, Daylesford Phone for a chat about your flooring needs on (03) 5348 4097
The Local
For the fridge! Emergency: 000 Springs Medical Centre: 5348 2227 Daylesford Hospital: 5321 6500 after hours GP Helpline: 1800 022 222 Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 Poisons Information Centre: 131 126 Life Line: 131 114
Community Information 31
SES: 132 500 Hepburn Wildlife Shelter: 5348 3932 Hepburn Vet: 5348 4851 Daylesford Vet: 5348 1088 Hepburn Shire: 5348 2306 CFA Bushfire Information Line: 1800 240 667
For all your power equipment needs we service all makes and models Sales, Service and Spare Parts
1 Howe Street Daylesford 5348 2649
Qualified Arborist - Jason Scholten Tree & Stump Removal Tree Pruning Storm Damage Removal Mulch Sales
32 Sport
The Local
Winning streak for racing car driver Will Lamb
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ILL Lamb and his six-cylinder Commodore, The Red Rocket, have been busy notching up wins across the state over the past couple of years.
WINNER: A year of firsts for racing car driver Will Lamb
Lamb, who says he feels safer racing than driving on the roads, will be heading to Horsham’s Blue Ribbon Raceway on March 22 to defend his state title. Other wins include the Mick Woodham Memorial race for 2012 and 2013 at Alexandra Speedway, the ARB Blue Ribbon race for 2012 and 2013, the feature race at the Rushworth Speedway for 2013 and 2014, the Kevin Toms Memorial race at Swan Hill for 2012 and 2013 and “every feature race until last weekend”. “At Wangaratta we finished second,” Lamb said. “It was just a tough track with 43 degree heat. Myself and the other 14 drivers did well to keep our cool with the harsh track conditions.” Lamb admits setting the car up in those conditions was very challenging, getting off to a rough start for the night, finishing in fourth and fifth places in the first two heat races. “We came home with a win in the third heat and that qualified us third for the final but with the track conditions and track having only one race line, we couldn’t do anything with the car in front of us except follow. “(And) the other driver, Jamie Lock from Bendigo, was too good as he drove really smart, really well. He brought home his first three-litre feature win.” Lamb said he raced in a restricted class, three-litre, which brought a lot of challenges to the table. His VL Commodore is powered by a Nissan RB30 engine. There are around 25 same class cars registered in the state. Lamb, 26, has been racing for 14 years after starting at the age of just 12. He said he enjoyed the team bonding, including with his father, Albert, and getting together with “a great bunch of drivers”. “You also learn a lot of skills about chassis set up and the understanding of how a vehicle reacts to different changes,” he said. “Without the team at Howe Automotive I wouldn’t be able to achieve what I have done.” And any safety concerns? “Definitely not. I feel a lot safer in that car than driving on the roads. “Knowing the team at Howe Automotive has built the car from the ground up gives me good peace of mind. “Also knowing the car is thoroughly checked after each meeting by the guys ensures that the car is the best it can be. “Each car goes though a scrutineering check-over before being allowed to enter the track. ” And the best part of racing? “It’s a lot of fun.”
Howe Automotive Your Safety is our priority
Automotive Electrician on site Front end wheel alignments
Servicing all automotive air conditioning 4X4 Servicing and repairs
19 East Street Daylesford
Ph: 53482389
Repairs@howeauto.com.au