May 12, 2014 Issue 19 Mark’s will to live inspired by Archer
The Local - Hepburn Shire’s own community publication
2 About Us The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Hepburn Shire. The next edition is due out on Monday, May 26. Advertising deadlines for the next edition of The Local: Space bookings: Wednesday, May 21 Copy provided by: Thursday, May 22 Editorial deadline: Thursday, May 22 Managing editor/sales: Donna Kelly General manager/photography: Kyle Barnes Graphic designer: Glen Heyne Sub-editors: Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Editorial and affordable sales - 5348 7883 / 0416 104 283 dhslocal@gmail.com e-photo sales - $20 e-editions at www.tlnews.com.au Like us on Facebook! facebook.com/DHSLocal
Front cover: Mark Ward is thrilled with life after surviving cancer and welcoming his first child, Archer, into the world. Read his story on p11. Image: Kyle Barnes
Happy Birthday Queen Elizabeth! The next edition of The Local, May 26, is the perfect time to announce any Queen’s Birthday long weekend events on June 7, 8 and 9! Make sure locals and visitors know what you’ve got happening on this holiday weekend. And if you’re wondering why The Local has so many advertisers choosing its pages, just call us for a quote. Then you’ll know! Oh, we’re also keen on the heads up on any amazing people and places we should be featuring. Just look left for our details. Enjoy the read! Cheers, Donna
The Local
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To vape or not to vape - that is the question By Donna Kelly/Kyle Barnes
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NEW phenomenon is hitting Daylesford – vaping.
Vaping involves the use of an electronic cigarette, powered by a battery, which produces a vapour from “juice” which is inserted into a canister. The juice has different flavours and can also contain nicotine. Some vaping advocates say it helps stop smoking with the nicotine level able to be dropped until it can be given up completely. Others say the vapour, which has relatively little odour and disappears quickly, is a better option than smoking cigarettes. However, e-cigarettes have not been tested by Australian drug and poisons authorities. The Therapeutic Goods Administration says any product for which therapeutic claims are made must be entered in its register before it can be supplied in Australia. On its website it says: “Electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, electronic nicotine delivery systems or e-cigs, are devices for making mists for inhalation, that usually simulate the act of cigarette smoking. “Unlike nicotine replacement therapy products, which have been rigorously assessed for efficacy and safety...no assessment of electronic cigarettes has been undertaken and, therefore, the quality and safety of electronic cigarettes is not known.” Good or bad, the biggest question around Daylesford and Hepburn Springs is “can I vape here”. Hotels have been smoke free for years now but a call to the Australian Hotel Association resulted in a “what is vaping” query – and no return phone call on its stance on e-cigarettes in pubs. On the home front, there was a mixed reaction with some hotels saying they already allowed vapers to enjoy their habit while others were totally against the use of e-cigarettes. “I don’t smoke but it doesn’t bother me at all,” said one owner. “I already let people vape here – and no-one seems to mind.” But another owner said that with cigarette smoke long banned there was no reason to bring back vapours to dining venues. And while gathering anecdotal evidence most people had the same question as the AHA. “Vaping...what’s that?”
Creswick celebrations
Unsung Heroes
To Dinner with Love
CRESWICK U3A will celebrate its fifth anniversary at the Tangled Maze on Thursday, June 19.
UNSUNG Heroes of Australian History will be staged at the Glenlyon Hall on May 24.
DAYLESFORD and Hepburn Springs’ community and businesses have been overwhelming with their support for “To Dinner with Love” held at Sault recently in support of Peta Teague.
Secretary Bill Morrison said the club was started when Lorraine David held a meeting to gauge interest in 2009. “Now with over 100 members we are taking the opportunity to enjoy new friendships (and) continue learning through social and educational activities, enabling us to keep mentally and physically alert and active amid happy and like-minded people,” he said. Events have included coach trips, Seniors’ Week events, barbecues, dinners and group activities. The celebrations start at noon. Details: 0459 981 066, u3a3363@gmail.com or creswicku3a.com
Songwriters and musicians Bruce Watson, Moira Tyers and Wendy Ealey have a passion for Australia’s history and have written fascinating stories about ordinary people who have done extraordinary things. Unsung Heroes of Australian History is a journey through Australia’s history, exploring and celebrating the life and times of those who have quietly shaped the nation. Audience members can also share their own stories about members of their family who may have led an ordinary life but done extraordinary things. The show is at 7.30pm. Tickets are $20 each which includes party fare at interval. Bookings: 0404 069 019 or lilyspr@westnet.com.au Proceeds will be donated to hall renovations.
Sault’s Jodi Flockhart said donations for the night had “been incredible to allow us to put together the silent auction, along with the 80 guests attending the fundraiser to support such a fabulous woman”. Ms Flockhart said the support had been absolutely amazing with too many businesses and organisations pitching in to list.
The Local
4 Our artists
New chapter for criminologist T HE Spa Country Sculptors is holding its “Under an Autumn Sky” Outdoor Sculpture Show at Lavandula from May 10 to June 9 which coincides with Lavandula’s Harvest Festival. Among those displaying their works is former criminologist Mark Cowie. The Local’s Donna Kelly caught up for a chat.
Donna: What got you started in art? Mark: Since childhood I have always enjoyed drawing, wood carving, whittling, some furnituremaking and constructing all manner of things. After a 20-year career as a criminologist I needed to embark on some new personal and creative challenges and I began sculpting some 12 years ago. From the moment a friend in Trentham Ronnie Thorpe - taught me to weld two pieces of steel together I was instantly captivated. I became driven to construct all manner of three-dimensional objects with a view to ultimately creating some satisfying sculptures. I simply had to commence a new chapter in my life and sculpting enticed me to do so. Donna: Why sculpture? Mark: Sculpting steps in to occupy a small part of the immense void in my understanding of pretty much most things. Put simply, I find creating abstract three-dimensional works a vividly expressive experience. For me, the process drills into and occasions the release of layers of feelings, sensations, intuitive responses and matters emanating from the unconscious. It raises questions of how much of my creativity is as a result of simply being a conduit for greater expressive forces distilled in hitherto mysterious domains. The capacity of art to encourage engagement, stimulate awareness and engender mindfulness continues to amaze and impress me. Donna: What sort of works do you do? Mark: Much of my short semi-professional practice has revolved around creating large outdoor works. In more recent times however, I have concentrated on developing a body of smaller works in an array of media including wood, terracotta clay and bronze. As a consequence of working in new media I have found much pleasure in being more closely connected to the works as I attend to the greater levels of detail and finishing
38 High St Trentham
required in these smaller pieces. As a consequence, my newer works in steel have also been on the smaller scale. Donna: What is your passion? Mark: As my skill-sets are always evolving, and as a means to developing my creative practise, I am always keen to tap into the experience of others and seek knowledge from those who have attained proficiencies and competencies in their chosen mediums. On a broader and less selfish note, I have a passion for egalitarianism and peace. Donna: Where is your work on show? Mark: My work moves through various galleries in Melbourne and is exhibited in numerous competitions across the state. I am looking forward to holding a major solo exhibition in 2015. Donna: Finally, what’s your story in moving to the region? Mark: Basically, some 20 years ago I needed to escape the madness of Melbourne suburbia, yet remain sufficiently close enough to maintain some work opportunities. I moved to Trentham in the early 1990s and then to Bullarto, an even more peaceful part of the world, some 10 years ago. I live on a small property on the edge of the forest surrounded by farm land. I feel fortunate to have the opportunities to live a quieter life, in some respects anyway, in a beautiful environment and to pursue my passion for creativity. I also love the fact that I can clamber up onto the roof of my house and sit up there among the trees staring out into the wideness of the world.
Ph 5424 1164 e: kuki@live.com.au
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Capital withdrawn
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EPBURN Wind has withdrawn “the planned return of capital” to its shareholders and will instead use its money to pay down debt.
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Cool cats keep warm at ARC
ARC youth activities coordinator Sebastian Klein said the money would be used for heating and the installation of audio visual equipment so teenagers using the Youth Space could plug and play instruments, iPhones and iPads. “We’re really grateful to the Longest Lunch, and in particular Bettina Ralph, Christian Reuther and all the other chefs for this money being donated. “Some of our kids also got hospitality certificates for working at the Longest Lunch and can use those for future employment.” Ms Ralph, who organises the event, said money should “always go to the youth and youth development”. “The ARC has so much potential and now it will be utilised to the maximum in the colder months.”
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AYLESFORD’S ARC will be kept warm over the winter months thanks to a $5000 donation from the Longest Lunch.
Above chef Christian Reuther, left, and organiser Bettina Ralph, second from right, hang out with some of the ARC’s Youth Space teenagers.
A number of shareholders have contacted The Local to express their disappointment especially after the co-operative said at last year’s annual meeting there had been “a healthy cash surplus” and it would take steps to implement its first capital return to members. An email to members said the board had “supported this initiative in recognition of the co-operative’s positive financial performance in the previous financial year and the importance of delivering responsible returns to our membership”. “However, in the months since our AGM, the outlook for the Australian renewable energy sector has deteriorated significantly. Negative political signals coming out of Canberra, and the consequent market reaction, have forced us to reconsider our short-term plans. “The staff and board have undertaken a full review of the co-operative’s organisational and financial structure and embarked on a significant cost-cutting program to ensure we are ‘fit to fight’ as we adjust to our new operating environment and plan for the future. “While our debt levels are relatively low for a renewable energy enterprise, we do not have a large balance sheet to help us ride out protracted periods of lower market prices and we cannot access the economies of scale of the big energy companies.” The email said if there was enough interest Hepburn Wind would host a Q&A forum for members. Hepburn Wind director Simon Holmes a Court said he was also very disappointed that there would be no dividends paid this year. “It was to be our first, and came on the back of a solid year of performance,” he said. “The goal posts have definitely changed. (But) despite the toxic political environment around renewable energy, our two turbines, Gale and Gusto, are performing well. “They just pumped their 30 millionth kilowatthours into the local electricity network. “To put it into context, as the average Victorian house uses about 15 kWh a day, we’ve generated enough to power a home for two million days.” Mr Holmes a Court also said Hepburn Wind had invited the Prime Minister’s Renewable Energy Target Review Panel to visit the community to hear how the review of Renewable Energy Target was already impacting on the enterprise.
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6 Opinion
My Say
The Local
by Donna Kelly
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APPY National Volunteers Week!
In this edition of The Local, we’re showcasing our volunteers with a huge six-page feature. We thought about writing a lot of words but decided to say most of it with pictures. So we went through our back editions, right back to September when we started, and found all the photos of volunteers we had taken. And then realised we could only fit about a third of them in. But we reckon they are pretty good snapshot of what’s happening around the region. Amazing work by amazing people. (Check it out from page 18.) But while many so many volunteers will spend the week, well, volunteering, there are two people who won’t be doing all they want. But not because of lack of commitment, that’s for sure. Annette and Alan Thomas had an idea last year. They decided to start a community breakfast at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre. How great is that. Alan is a chef and Annette is a great host, and with the help of a few others, it all got off to a flying start each Thursday morning. Now this was, yes, was, a really good breakkie. We tried it once. There were eggs and bacon, bubble and squeak, homemade sausages, lovely cooked tomatoes, mushrooms and loads of buttered toast. Oh, there was also cereal and fruit salad for the boring people. And it was free. And people just turned up and had a nice warming breakfast and had a great start to their day. And the people, well on the day we were there, came from all walks of life. Older, younger, down on their luck, just looking for a bit of a chat. Some were students getting a nutritious breakfast before school. You could say it was a win-win situation. But this year Annette and Alan apparently put their form in for funding from Hepburn Shire Council a week late. So no more money. It was only $2000.
www.abandonstress.com.au Contact Rosi 0401 369 743
Turning away volunteers not such a smart move The official word from the council was: “The Daylesford Breakfast Club application was submitted a week after the grants closed and was therefore not eligible and not assessed.” Really council? Really? So you have some people who are trained in their fields, happy to work for nothing, and provide a much needed service that was obviously welcomed. And don’t they, whoever they are, say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Now I know money doesn’t grow on trees. (But if it did you’d ban those trees from Vincent Street in case some notes fell and someone slipped on them...) But I know I would rather some of my rates went to providing a meal for someone who is in need rather than, let’s say, re-re-resurfacing Vincent Street, or, holding another streetscape meeting, or, ummm, another round of “let’s all learn about the Hepburn Hub”. (They’re holding another Glenlyon Streetscape meeting soon. There’s only one main street in Glenlyon, the one with the lovely trees, and I reckon it’s doing OK on its own. Come and have a look - it’s glorious.) But I digress. OK, you say they were a week late. They actually say they weren’t. That might be a story for next time. But in the meantime, can’t the council just cut them, and the people keen for a bit of a weekly chat and tucker, a bit of a break. For a bit of break...fast.
The Local
A
LL things spud were celebrated at the Great Trentham Spudfest last weekend. A huge crowd enjoyed entertainment, tasty spud treats and getting caught up in spud bags - even if there was a tumble or two.
Turning tattoos into works of art on the human canvas
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AVE was always creative and kept busy drawing designs.
So 11 years ago he decided to put his skills to the test, the permanent test, and started as a fine art tattoo artist. He hasn’t looked back and three years ago opened Motherload Tattoo in Howe Street, Daylesford. Dave chose the town because he liked the fact that Daylesford was “not a rat race like Ballarat” and closer to home. It’s also been a great choice business-wise because most days, from Tuesday to Saturday, he’s kept pretty busy. Busy enough that he’s now he’s taken on another tattoo artist, Rex, pictured right. Perhaps it’s because of Dave’s business motto of looking after whoever comes through his door. “I personally like doing black and grey work, and realistic skulls, but I make sure I concentrate in every field,” he said. “We don’t just go down one alley. We work with whoever comes in the door.” Dave said most of his clients were locals although there were a few from Ballarat and other towns, and most were younger people. He said the most popular designs right now was “anything and everything” and whatever was trending on Facebook and Google. Motherload Tattoo also has a computer full of images for clients to look through – or they can bring their own sketches for Dave and Rex to work from. “We really just offer a personalised service of fine art tattooing which can turn your tattoos into works of art on your human canvas.”
Contact Dave or Rex on 0407 389 172. Motherload Tattoo is at 4/11 Howe Street, Daylesford. Motherload Tattoo
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What’s up! Morning tea
A Biggest Morning Tea, to raise money for the Cancer Council, will be held at Daylesford Aged Care (Lumeah Lodge) Hospital Street, Daylesford, on Tuesday, May 20 from 10am. Gold coin donation and all welcome.
New members The Hepburn Springs Swiss Italian Festa, a community festival which has been running for 22 years, is after new volunteer committee members. Details: president Ian Head on 0408 360 101. Meet Your Neighbours
In the next in the series of Meet Your Neighbours, Trentham and Districts Primary School principal Liz Carmody will talk about the school. The event is on Monday, May 26 from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Trentham Neighbourhood Centre. Bookings: 5424 1354. Supper is provided. Gold coin donation.
Daylesford Probus Club
Daylesford Probus Club meets at 10am on the third Tuesday of each month at the Daylesford Bowling Club, Camp Street. Details: 5348 2553.
Glenlyon Market
A market is held next to the Glenlyon Hall on the third Saturday of each month from 9am to 1pm. Locals offer up fruit, vegies, baked goods, honey, olive oil and jams and spreads.
Daylesford Market
A Farmers’ Market is held on the first Saturday of the month at the Daylesford Primary School oval from 9am to 1pm.
Got an event happening? Email dhslocal@gmail.com
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HE Spa Quilters of Daylesford has its biennial Quilt Show coming up on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8.
Held at the Daylesford Primary School’s gymnasium the show, with a theme of Winter Christmas, is open from 10am to 4pm each day. As well as about 35 quilts made by members, the show will also have other quilted items and Christmas decorations for sale. Money raised goes to the club which then makes quilts for foster children at Ludbrook House in Ballarat. Each child receives his or her own quilt which is often the only personal item they have to take to their new foster home. There is also a quilt being raffled and a people’s choice. Details: President Janet Blain on 5348 3365.
Daylesford District Community Bank Branch
Community Partnership Consultation Senior Citizens Centre, 76 Vincent St. Daylesford
7pm Thursday 5 June 2014
Daylesford District Community Developments Limited ABN 72 149 943 067 operates the Daylesford District Community Bank Branch as a franchise of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL 237879
The Local
Rockin’ The Look 9
Rockin’ The Look with Vivienne
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OU might have seen Vivienne at Breakfast and Beer. Or maybe dreaming up floral arrangements at the Lake House.
She’s the one in the pretty sixties dress and the striking eye makeup. Or perhaps a more classic outfit with some amazing earrings. She’s clearly the one rockin’ the look! The 29-year-old said she was always the child wearing the bright sneakers or colourful clothes and starting op shopping in early high school years. Her look is based on “feeling free” which means being able to put away the rule book, take clothing designs out of their prescribed boxes, and wear what feels good. “It is inspiring when you see someone wearing something that noone else would wear. It might look silly to other people but I like the freedom of that,” she said. “I don’t like rules or putting things in boxes. “I do a lot of op shopping and I like going to little vintage stores. I do like designer pieces but I don’t have many of them. “I don’t have a lot of money and I like working to a budget – like most other people. “People will often comment on something I am wearing that only cost $2 or $3. And I love to talk about my bargains.” Vivienne, who lives in Daylesford, said she mixed old and new and really enjoyed obscure looks. “They might not always be appropriate but it’s always something interesting. I have had different fads with things and I think I still do.” Vivienne, who once lived in a train carriage for a few years, said she also had her “safety” dresses”. “I have a few of those, mostly sixties dresses, similar to the one I’m wearing, that are simple classic cuts and really easy to wear. You can just slip them on. “Or a black skirt and tights. Something that you can wear with whatever. “I used to share a house with a friend and we had a communal top that was our safety top. It just always felt good to be in it.”
Location courtesy of the Hepburn Chalet, a venue which also definitely rocks the look! Thanks Deb and Jaret!
“I don’t like rules or putting things in boxes.”
Know someone who rocks the look? Email dhslocal@gmail.com - and we’ll give them their 15 minutes!
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The Local
Spirit of China takes over Creswick
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F YOU haven’t been already, you have until June 15 to see the Spirit of China in Creswick at the Creswick Museum.
Curator Margaret Fullwood said the exhibition had created a lot of interest from locals, tourists and organisations like Parks Victoria. “We started with the story boards and got the Creswick Men’s Shed to make the bottoms of the scrolls. The Chinese characters along the side say “Spirit of China”. “We also found some of the family histories of Chinese residents in Creswick. And not all of them lived down in Chinatown, or Calembeen Park as it’s called now, some were at Slaty Creek, mostly the miners.” Ms Fullwood, pictured right with opium pipes, said among the items on display was a rice grinding wheel, pictured below left, which council workers had found being used as road ballast in the Slaty Creek area. Other interesting artefacts include embroidered clothing – on loan from the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo, two huge pots from Slaty Creek, a headstone from the cemetery and a basket and unique Chinese field coat on exhibition for the first time from the Melbourne Museum. The coat, pictured below right, is believed to date back to the 1860s and still has researchers puzzled as to the make-up of its fibres. Then there are plenty of photographs and those story boards – written by Ms Fullwood. There are also two watercolours by Horace Burkitt. One shows the shops in Albert Street before the Great Fire, after which the Chinese did not rebuild, and the other is of a joss house or temple. Ms Fullwood said she had long wanted to create a Chinese exhibition. “We don’t have the space to have exhibitions on display full-time – we have one major exhibition a year, and had done the Lindsays for the last couple of years, so finally decided to exhibit the Chinese. “And while we didn’t get very much interest from the locals now it’s open they are coming out of the woodwork. We’re very happy with the response.” Creswick Museum is in the old Creswick Town Hall and open Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 3.30pm. Groups and schools are welcome midweek by appointment. Phone: 5345 2845.
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njoy a holiday at Bells By The Beach with nothing else to bring except your food, personal items and your furry friends!
Contact: Jan and Lin Bell - 0403 221 737 bellsbythebeach.com.au bellsbythebeach@bigpond.com
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Just 500 metres (or a 10-minute walk) to one of the safest and best dog beaches in Victoria Your dogs will be treated like canine royalty and can stay and sleep indoors on their own personal pet bed Dogs play in a large garden with plenty of lawn and are safe and secure behind high fences Dogs enjoy a freshly baked crunchy gourmet treat on arrival with comfy pet beds for big and small dogs Self catering, large living area, gas log fire, spa bath Plenty of walking and cycling trails The Bellarine Taste Trail – local provedors selling fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, seafood delights, chutneys, jam, honey and fresh crusty bread On-site vehicle parking Inspection invited, brochure available From $165 per night – 2 to 6 guests Bring your own linen or hire ours
The Local
Mark thrilled with life
News 11
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UST 19 months ago, Mark Ward seemed to have it all.
He had taken over the popular Daylesford, Ballarat and Newcomb Mill Markets, at 56 was looking forward to the birth of his first child, son Archer, and life was good. But Mark wasn’t feeling 100 per cent. He put it down to having “a bad back”, popped it on the back burner and got stuck into his new business. It was a decision that almost killed him. When Mark finally went to see his doctor, six months later, and after physio had failed to help with the now unbearable pain, he was sent for tests. He knew it was bad news when he saw the face of his doctor of 25 years. “Unfortunately the tests came back showing I had cancer in the spine, which was a complete and utter shock,” Mark said. “It was something I wasn’t prepared for and even my doctor had tears running down his cheeks. It was an absolute nightmare. When I was diagnosed Archer was just two months old and here I am thinking I’m not going to see this kid grow up.” The cancer was aggressive, had been in Mark’s system for some time, and he was given a 50/50 chance of survival. To make matters worse, two months into chemotherapy treatment he contracted pneumonia which put him into intensive care for a month, with two weeks on life support, and another three months in hospital to recover. “It was another stage of my life where it was touch and go whether I was going to survive. I was in hospital recovering from pneumonia and still getting chemo at the same time.” But after eight months of chemotherapy a scan last December had doctors delivering the news that Mark was in remission. “There was no cancer showing and I have had three other scans, the last two weeks ago, and nothing is showing up at all. The doctors and I are all looking at it from a very optimistic point of view and my life should be normal now – for a very long time – and that’s terrific.” Mark credits Archer as his inspiration for living. “Where I thought it was a nightmare with Archer coming into the world at that time he definitely was my inspiration in living. I often said to the people in intensive care that I wished I was alone on a desert island. If it was going to happen to just me, then so be it, but when you have other people they are the ones you care about. “Now I see Archer as an absolute blessing for giving me something special to fight for. He was one of the main things that got me through this whole thing.” Mark also credits the support of his partner Ainsley Ball, his brother Bernard and his parents, for their support during the really dark times. “They knew how positive I am but you still need people to give you reassurances sometimes. I really appreciated their support. And there were times when Ainsley and mum and dad had to meet with specialists and walk out of those meetings with the thought of me not being here. “That was probably the most upsetting thing for me. They put on brave faces but they knew what the outcome could have been. And there were grim times but we got through.” Mark said he had been back on board with the Mill Markets for the past five months and loving his work. “The specialists said the biggest thing you can’t do when you are recovering from cancer is put yourself in a stress situation. But if I was home watching television I would be stressed. I get up every morning and do what I love.” Mark said while he was 100 per cent mentally fit now, the treatment had taken a toll on his body and physically he was about 85 per cent but well on the way to a full recovery.
Mark said his battle with cancer had changed his personality. “I feel so happy with life. Something previously I would have worried about now doesn’t concern me. I wake up and want to enjoy life. Previously I was very driven by things like fortune but now that is a big second to the people that I love. “Everything seems so much better. I am just so thrilled with the world.” Mark said he was also spreading the message that people should take heed of their health and if they were feeling unwell take a few minutes to visit a doctor. “Us blokes are a stubborn breed. I just thought I had a bad back. But there is no doubt if I had left seeing my doctor for another three or four weeks I would not be here.” Mark also added that May is Bowelscan Month. “It’s not that nice but everyone should just go and do it. It costs nothing and if the government is providing services then take advantage of them. “Don’t be scared because if something is wrong you need to be fixed up. At the end of the day if you don’t do anything, you are not going to be here.”
12 HOWE ST R E E T , DA Y L E SF OR D
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New business manager
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in so that gives you some indication. And the AVID Sproules is the new business banking manager for the Daylesford shops up and down the street are occupied.” Mr Sproules said he looked forward Community Bank. Mr Sproules, who has been with BankWest in Ballarat for the past six years, is available to businesses keen to lend $500,000 or more. “The branch has a threshold of $500,000 and then I develop business opportunities for bank customers in the Daylesford area who go above that,” he said. “My objective is to put on new business customers and manage them. We already have 15 or so business customers we are looking after, who are reasonably prominent in the area, and they are all lending above that $500,000 level.” Mr Sproules said the business world was challenging at the moment, in the lead up to the release of the federal Budget, coming off the back of last year’s election uncertainty. “There is quite a bit of uncertainty about where we are heading with budgets at the moment. It’s really front and centre with everyone because they are all impacted by state and federal budgets.” Mr Sproules said Daylesford was a good tourism region and always appeared to be “pretty productive with a lot of money in the town”. “And either side of here (the Daylesford branch building) there are businesses going
to meeting with businesses, with branch manager Steven McKinley also involved, and offering them his expansive banking expertise. He agreed that swapping banks was a big move but said there were many reasons for business customers to make the move. “The first thing I would say is that you are putting part of your profits directly back into your community by supporting this branch,” he said. “Then you have local people servicing customers, supported by the branch manager, and other banks can’t do that to the same level. They have too many customers and not enough staff. “Finally, the other advantage is the infrastructure I have access to in Ballarat. It’s probably more than I have had at other banks to support businesses. I have a lot of experience in the business banking world but at Ballarat I have even more access to experienced people. “And we’ll also always do a price that people will be happy with.” Mr Sproules said the first step was to “come and have a chat”.
Skill level in every job
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ARY Tyson has been painting for 20 years.
He’s covered every facet from industrial to domestic to “everything that’s come along in-between”. “I worked in the industry to gain a lot of knowledge which is why I have been in so many different areas of painting,” he said. “It’s also something I really enjoy and gain a lot of job satisfaction from every day. I like that you can see what you have done – from where you start out to creating something that looks fantastic.” Gary, who established Daylesford Painting last year after moving to the town two and half years ago, said most people knew what they wanted. “I generally try and steer people in the right direction but most people have a fair idea of what they are after. I just deliver the best quality, best product and best finish possible.” Gary said people needed to keep a check on their painted surfaces because if they were left too long they started to deteriorate. “Paint lasts about 10 years inside and out and if you don’t take care of that the paint and wood starts to deteriorate. “And it’s always more expensive to paint over something that’s been left too long. The prep work is twice or three times more involved.” Gary said he always provided a fixed quote – and with his experience “generally things flow pretty smoothly”. “I have been doing this for a quite a while know. I know what I am doing.” And while people will often tackle a painting job on their own, Gary says there is a skill level needed in every job especially for that perfect finish. “There is a learning skill in every job you take on and it took me eight years of working with other people before I ventured out for myself. “I have painted a huge variety of homes – before moving here most of my work was in places like Toorak, South Yarra, Hawthorn, Kew and Armadale. “And everyone has been extremely happy with my work. At this home here the owners are ecstatic with what I have done. I do a really good job not only for the client but also for myself.”
Contact Gary Tyson at Daylesford Painting on 0432 428 364.
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Gary Tyson outside his latest painting job
14 News
The Local
Devouring newspapers leads to Current Affair
W
HEN Daylesford’s U3A started in 2000 people were asked to contribute ideas for courses.
So Frank Page put his mind to it and, with his penchant for devouring newspapers and following politics, came up with Current Affair. “I love news and current affairs so I crafted sessions around that – and it’s been held on and off since then,” he said. “It started weekly but then went fortnightly and in the sessions I identify a range of subjects from local and state to federal and international. We also cover zany items, celebrities, anything and everything. “In the early days we did field trips to places like the Supreme Court and The Age newspapers, and had speakers. “We had a person from a Palestinian group who came and talked to us and that was followed by someone from an Israeli group. They swept the building for bombs and even looked under cars. “We also had a young Muslim woman at one session at Borsa Hall in Hepburn Springs who answered many questions.” Mr Page said the group, which now meets in the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre courthouse every second Wednesday, was usually about 15 strong and was open to anyone, not just U3A members. “It’s an opportunity for people interested in a variety of subjects to talk about them. And for me it’s an opportunity to be further involved in the community. “It’s proven very popular.” The next Current Affair is this Wednesday, May 14 from 10.30am to noon. Registrations are encouraged on 5348 3569. A gold coin donation is also appreciated.
Celebrating International Nurses Day From left, dedicated Springs Medical Centre nurses Karen, Vicki and Jill
Advertorial
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prings Medical Centre, co-located in Daylesford and Trentham, proudly acknowledges the individual achievements and dedication of their nurses leading into International Nurses Day on Monday, May 12, 2014. All the nurses at Springs Medical Centre are recognised for their dedication in improving the health of the community by providing nurse-led clinics promoting awareness and well-being on such things as Diabetes (Anne) Chronic Disease Management (Jennie, Josephine), Wound Care (Karen), Flu Vaccine Clinics, Nurse run PAP clinics (Shannon), Breast Care (Cheryl) and Smoking Cessation. Vicki, one of the nurses at Springs Medical Centre has been at the forefront in setting up a Smoking Cessation Clinic, providing people within the community information and encouragement to quit smoking. Since May 1, 2014 Springs Medical Centre has been a Smoke and Tobacco Free organisation. Any people wishing to join the Smoking Cessation Clinic or any other nurseled clinic are encouraged to contact Springs Medical Centre (5348 2227) and speak with one of the highly valued and experienced nurses.
The Local
Thruppences lead to jug collection
News 15
Peta Heyne and her mother’s Toby jug
N
EED something to serve up cream or milk? Peta Heyne has it covered.
“And really, what else do you give to someone when they already have everything they need.” Peta said she was always on the lookout for more jugs but didn’t buy any jug The Hepburn Springs resident started collecting jugs 30 years ago and that came along. has about 250 on display in her home. “They have to do something for me.” And that’s after “culling” more than 100 when she and husband Glen downsized Peta also collects souvenir jugs which are no longer make and are similar to the six years ago. more readily available souvenir spoons. Peta said her first memory of a jug was one that belonged to her mother. “I have a dear friend in Tasmania who has a list of every souvenir jug I have and “My mother had a little Toby jug and she used to put all her thruppences in it. It when she goes to the op shops and sees a jug she looks at my list and if it’s not on was in a glass cabinet in the kitchen. there, she buys it for me. They used to $2 or $3 but now you are looking at $20 “And when we went out, shopping or somewhere like that, that would be our each.” spending money. All the thruppences – which shows my age. Peta said her Toby jug collection, which are Royal Doulton, would be her “I always used to admire that little Toby jug – and I have it now.” favourites but she is not precious with her collection. Peta said her own collection started more than 30 years ago when the couple They come off the shelves, clearly not all at the same time, for dinners, and to were living at Sunbury in a log-style house. be used as simple cream and milk jugs. It had plenty of wooden beams which proved the perfect place for cup hooks And what do you call something with a penchant for jugs? and a jug collection. “I’m not sure what you would call someone like me,” Peta said. “My first jug was a Bunnykins jug my mother gave me. She said she used to “Perhaps just a jugaholic.” warm my milk in it. And that’s how I started. “Then I just started collecting, friends gave me jugs and a lot of my jugs remind me of my friends or special times.
16 News
The Local
Environment Victoria CEO guest speaker at Trentham
E
NVIRONMENT Victoria acting chief executive officer Mark Wakeham will be guest speaker when Trentham and Macedon Ranges sustainability groups celebrate World Environment Day on Thursday, June 5.
Trentham secretary Charles Sherlock said World Environment Day celebrated the environment, stimulated awareness of environmental issues and enhanced political attention and public action. “It calls on everyone to realise not only our responsibility to care for the Earth, but also reminds one and all of our individual capacity to become agents of change,” he said. “The day is celebrated on June 5 each year and engages millions of people across the globe through events in over 70 countries. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972.” Mark Wakeham has degrees in economics, Australian history and adult education and has worked in the solar industry, as a radio operator in the Australian Army, with Greenpeace Australia Pacific and Northern Territory University. The event will be held at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham from 6.30pm. Cost is $30 for a two-course dinner. Bookings close May 30. Bookings: mrsgonline.org.au, tsg@trentham.org.au or Glenda Holmes on 5424 1727 or Mr Sherlock on 0423 020 699.
Shamanic Healing Healing is within Us Intuitive Counselling Illuminations Soul Retrieval Extractions Readings
Jaqi Mudge 0423 499 901
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A Lifestyle Store. For Everyone.
108 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs Tel: 5348 4353 Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun & Pub Hols 10-4 www.portal108.com.au
8/2/13 1:12:03 AM
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Happy & Healthy 17
Natures Wheel
Massage Therapy and Body Mechanics
Therapies available: Relaxation Massage, Deep Soft Tissue Massage, Myo Facial Manipulation, Therapeutic/Remedial Massage Reiki For Bookings: Phone: 0400
017 623 Email: paul@natureswheel.com.au
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daylesford
SPICE daylesford would like to announce our beloved Adam Lee has returned!!! To celebrate Adam’s return, SPICE daylesford has autumn specials for its valued clients! It may be cool outside but you can always have some warm highlights! We are offering 20% off a colour, cut and blow-wave service on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and 10% off your next appointment when booked on day of treatment. Make sure you mention this advert to receive our special deals.
Phone 5348 1313
18 National Volunteer Week
The Local
Keeping rail history alive
S
TEVEN Fiume has always been interested in railways and growing up in Daylesford, the Sunday Market and train rides were always front and centre.
And the history side of things is something that keeps Steven, one of three local volunteers with the rest coming from Melbourne, at the station most weekends four years on from that first day. “It is a nice feeling that you are helping keep “It seemed like good fun so I turned up one day a major part of Daylesford’s history alive. And and said I would like to help, not really knowing while some people don’t realise how important the what they did up here,” he said. railway was for the establishment of Daylesford, it “Like a lot of people in town I thought it was was here for 99 years before the line closed and a just about the train ride on a Sunday or maybe lot of things, including tourists, were carted in and putting in a few sleepers. out by rail. “But it’s a massive operation. I started in the “And that’s why we want to keep it going. It’s shed doing restoration work. I had no skills, but hard but worthwhile. We do get the odd grant now they just start you off on something small and I and again but the income from the market and rail picked up an enormous amount of skills – more trips is used for everyday stuff. We are a pretty than I ever learnt at school or work.” sustainable group but without volunteers it just “Then there is the train running side. I did wouldn’t happen.” my guard and signalman’s course and then I Steven, an apprentice carpenter, said volunteers was interacting with the public. I wasn’t overly came from all backgrounds and usually just found confident about that at the start but it is really “something clicks”. good fun chatting with passengers and they are “People don’t need to come every weekend, amazed it is all run by volunteers.” just once a month can make a big difference for The 23-year-old, pictured right with beagle us, and we are also encouraging people to come Charlie watching on, said other areas for volunteers included track work, customer service mid-week. “We have women, men, retired people, young and even catering for the monthly Silver Streak. “Track work isn’t everyone’s cup of tea because people. And we would love more locals and the community to get involved. There’s also a great it is manual labour but it’s something not a lot of social side.” people get to do. Not everyone is putting down Details and Silver Streak bookings: Jenny a sleeper on a 135-year old railway track in the Davies at jjdavies@gmail.com or 0421 780 100. middle of the forest.”
HEPBURN HEALTH SERVICE SAYS ‘THANK YOU’ TO ALL OF OUR WONDERFUL AND VALUED VOLUNTEERS Right: Daylesford Campus volunteers Roger Kurtaj, Monika Hare, Judy Brown, Coreen Kimstra, Betty Weston, and at the piano, Bruce Orford and Adrian Holmes
Left: Clunes Campus volunteers George Abela, Eileen Bradsworth, Syd Tancredi, Pearl Tancredi, Mark Byrnes, Marie Herman and Satch Niemiec
Right: Creswick Campus volunteers Stewart Neil, Ken Neil, Quentin Turner, Maisie Turner, Laurie Porter, Dot Porter, Pat Greenwell and Joyce Perry
Left: Trentham Campus volunteers Janet Zappula, Hazel Gibbons, Vicky Stretton, Kevin Mc Cormack, Rosemary Cowell, Vin Cowell, Sharon van Rysewyk, Max Manning, Kath Morrison, front Vanessa Craven and Zdena Schwangmeier
For further information about volunteer opportunities available at Hepburn Health Service please contact Janine Fleming – Manager, Volunteer Services, 5321 6556 / 0457 851 953 or janinef@hhs.vic.gov.au
20 National Volunteer Week THE Local congratulates all the region’s volunteers and thanks them, as does everyone, for all their hard work. Here, and on the following pages, are just a few volunteers we have been lucky enough to feature since The Local started in September last year.
The Local
The Local
National Volunteer Week 21
22 National Volunteer Week
The Local
Different dining venue
O
K, so there are a few things a little different to your usual dining establishment. There is no wine on the drinks menu. In fact, there is no drinks menu. And there are no tables for two. Oh, there’s no soft music playing in the background. And it’s only open for a few hours on a Friday. But there are waiters greeting you on arrival, the tables are all nicely decked out and the aroma of promising good food is in the air. It’s the 5000 Club lunch at Stanbridge Hall in Daylesford. The club provides a weekly free, or gold coin donation if you have a little to spare, lunch, to people living in the Daylesford and district area. Earlier this month we, Kyle and I, found ourselves there for a photo shoot for National Volunteer Week. And, with a few coins dropped in the donation tin, decided to stay on for lunch. Why wouldn’t you? I opted for the pumpkin soup and it was fabulous. Clearly homemade, thick and full of flavour. Kyle had the Italian bean soup and also declared it a winner. For mains, I couldn’t go past the pasta bake. It was a freezing day outside and pasta is my comfort food. It was really good and served with a side of crunchy coleslaw. There was also a green salad that looked good – and you can even have both. Or the vegies. Kyle chose the lamb casserole – that was the delicious aroma – with mashed potato, peas and carrots. The lamb was perfectly cooked and ready to fall apart and the vegies were just right. Dessert offered up three choices – pavlova, a just-baked apple pie or fruit salad. With loads of cream ready nearby. I love pavlova – but can’t seem to make it myself – so that was a no-brainer. Kyle chose the apple pie and made good use of the cream. All just yum. The 5000 Club lunch is a place where everyone is welcome. It really is the more the merrier. A donation is appreciated if you can afford it but there is no pressure involved. And with the mixed seating you’ll always find someone interesting to chat to, if you want, or just enjoy your meal while reading a copy of The Local. You probably won’t find it rating on Urban Spoon but it’s real, homemade, warming, tasty food. With friendly, talented cooks and wait staff. And affordable.
Volunteerism...
the greatest affirmation of community life
Hepburn
SHire CounCil aCknowledgeS itS dediCated volunteerS
Hepburn Shire Council would like to thank all its wonderful, talented and committed volunteers. Your contribution is appreciated by Councillors, staff, the community and visitors to the Shire. Volunteers play an important role in supporting the delivery of services to the community by Council. Volunteers work in a variety of areas, some of which include: • Visitor Information Centres • Planned Activity Groups • Advisory Committees
• Community Visitor Scheme
• Special Committees
• Friends of Groups
We would like to thank all volunteers that contribute to making the Hepburn Shire a great place to live, work and visit.
Cr Don Henderson Mayor
E
VERY day millions of people volunteer their services expertise and kindness and make often unaffordable program’s doable for the benefit of people in need. The roll on effects of this generosity has many levels of success and transformative change. Volunteering saves millions of dollars which can then be focused on addressing community need. It offers focused care which on a one to one contact brings a sense of belonging to both the recipient of the volunteer’s care and to the volunteer as well.
Volunteers will often become effective mentors because of the opportunities of listening and friendship, creating the potential for positive transformative change in the life of the person or group being cared for and in the wider community. It is becoming the answer to addressing basic needs in small communities like Hepburn Shire and offers evidenced based response to real need in the area. The challenge to the shire will of course be their response both materially and financially in their responsibility for the support and management of need in their area. It places in our sights and life experience our own personal responsibility to be a neighbour. Real concern and friendship flows out of volunteerism and ultimately makes us better citizens. It takes little time and leaves us with a sense of making a difference to the lives of others. In a community like ours, with many newcomers, it connects us in a deeper way and teaches us to be real members of a community we have found and feel good about coming to. Give it a go...even create a new opportunity as you identify a need in your community. The 5000 Club is a great example of this and one the whole community should be proud of. We live in a great community, and it will continue to be so as we support one another practically and thoughtfully. Fr. Jeff O’Hare Vicar of Daylesford
THANK YOU!
The Local
National Volunteer Week 23
The Daylesford Community Op Shop thanks all its wonderful volunteers for their hard work, dedication and great humour! Without our volunteers our doors would not be able to open. You are all so appreciated!
Vinnie’s Volunteers Financing Community Welfare in Daylesford $89,000 in welfare distributed in Daylesford community 2013/2014 $17,900 to community Foodbank this year All profits stay in this region
More volunteers always welcome - flexible hours - good atmosphere Donations of good clothing, furniture and bric-a-brac always welcome Saint Vincent de Paul volunteers offering a “hand up not a hand out”
24 National Volunteer Week
The Local
Hepburn Wildlife Shelter
Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
THANK YOU
We would like to send out a very big thank you to all the wonderful people who volunteer their time and resources to keep the Hepburn Wildlife Shelter operating. To the rescuers who go out day and night to help an injured animal, to the member of public who stops to help an animal in distress on the side of the road despite being in a hurry, to the person who forgoes a cup of coffee once a week to make a regular donation, thank you. But especially to those that volunteer to work at the shelter week after week, year after year, a very special thank you. The value of your commitment and compassion for wildlife is beyond measure. If the hundreds of animals that you have rescued, cleaned up after, fed, hung out mountains of washing for, washed bottles, and cared for could talk, I know they would thank you from the very depths of their hearts.
The Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a lively and dedicated group formed in 1995 with the aim of promoting and supporting Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. A huge thank you to all those who have volunteered over the years and helped to conserve, protect and enhance the wonderful gardens for all to enjoy.
26 News
The Local
Deadly mushroom mix-ups by Alison Pouliot
The appropriately named Death Cap (Amanita phalloides) has been found in rural Victoria and lived up to its sinister name on several occasions in Australia as ecently in Canberra three people made a mistake with mushroom well as destroying the kidneys and livers of several others. This species is responsible for the majority of fungal poisoning fatalities identification that landed them in hospital. Two years before, a similar mistake tragically resulted with two people worldwide. The Death Cap is a European species that appears to be increasing in in the grave. All of these people had mistaken the deadly mushroom known as the distribution in Australia, especially in urban areas, but also in country Victorian towns. This species contains exceptionally powerful toxins and can be fatal even in Death Cap (Amanita phalloides). This is one mistake you don’t want to make. very small quantities. The basic message is always remember that you should never eat a wild The Death Cap grows in association with English Oaks (Quercus robur) in mushroom unless you are absolutely certain of its correct identification. Australia and is recognisable by several features including: While some mushrooms are eaten all over the world for their nutritional and Habitat: Grows in soil in association with oaks. therapeutical properties, unfortunately the various folkloric sayings about edible Cap: Mature cap is typically 10-16cm wide, varying in colour from cream to pale fungi always have their poisonous exceptions. green to olive brown. It is typically smooth in texture but can also have a sticky Many poisonings result from incorrect identification of species based on texture when wet. The cap is generally curved, convex, and flattens with age. traditional knowledge beliefs that are then applied in geographical regions other Gills (underneath the cap) are white, crowded and free from the stem. than from where they developed. Spores: White Stipe (stem): The stipe is white and typically 5-15cm in length and 1-2cm wide. It has a membranous ring or skirt (the remains of the partial veil) around the upper stem. The base of the stem is typically swollen (bulbous) with a cup-like structure (volva). You may have to part the leaf litter or dig a little into the soil to observe this feature. Always remember that you should never eat a wild mushroom unless you have the identification skills to correctly identify fungi.
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Link: alisonpouliot.com Left: The Death Cap (Amanita phalloides) grows under English Oaks (Quercus robur) in Australia (Photo: Alison Pouliot).
Business Cards | Post Cards Booklets | Brochures | Flyers Posters | Photo enlargements Banners | Pull-up banners T-Shirts | Transfers Promotional items Tourism souvenirs Printers | Copiers Ink | Toner Basic IT hardware Paper | Envelopes General office supplies Café & Restaurant docket books Shop 18 The Rex jonathon@copyworx.com.au 47 – 53 Vincent St www.copyworx.com.au Daylesford 3460 0408 416 881
phone: 03 5348 3097
ADVANCED TREES & SCREENS Open weekends to JUNE 1 Trentham Ancient Natives Sat & Sun 9-5 or by appointment Delivery & EFTPOS Nick: 0422 736 165 Plants grown on farm to 1.5m-3m and 10” screens at 1/2m-1m 100 + species. See website for list. Discounts for grow-to-order and custom treescapes available. 609 Spring Hill Road, Spring Hill. Melways Ref: X909 E9. www.ancientnatives.com.au
K
The Local
INGSTON teenager Thomas Williams has been selected as the recipient of the Leila Watson Memorial Scholarship at the recent Bendigo Eisteddfod held on May 2 and 3.
Thomas, who is in year 11 at Ballarat Grammar, won five first and four second places. His teacher is Newlyn’s Bronislaw Sozanski. Five of Mr Sozanski’s students competed in the piano competition with exceptional performances also by Daylesford Primary School student Cooper Harwood and Daylesford Secondary College student Isabella Thomas. Cooper won three first and two second places. Earlier this year he auditioned for a music scholarship and sat the entry exam at Ballarat Grammar. He has accepted offers of both music and academic scholarships and will enter Grammar at year 7 in 2015. Isabella, who is in year 9 at Daylesford Secondary College, was awarded one second, one third and two honourable mentions. Mr Sozanski said he put a lot of time into preparing his students for competition, scholarship auditions and exams. “Music tuition is so much more than a weekly lesson. The students all study different music programs chosen to suit their individual likes and technical development. “They perform at regular concert classes and attend performance workshops where they learn to bond as a team and work on all
News 27
Piano students prove worthy winners at Bendigo Eisteddfod
aspects of stagecraft and presentation. “Students also explore performance nerves and anxiety, and learn how to use this heightened tension to improve their performances and enjoy the experience.”
Now Showing@ New Month - SAME VENUE! Tuesday 13 May 6pm Mr Morgans Last Love (M)
Tuesday 20 May 6pm The Invisible Woman (M)
Friday 16 May 7pm The Invisible Woman (M)
Friday 23 May 7pm X-Men Days of Future Past
Saturday 17 May 1pm Never Ending Story (G) 3pm The Invisible Woman (M) 7pm Grand Budapest Hotel (M)
Saturday 24 May 1pm Princess Bride (PG) 3pm Grand Budapest Hotel (M) 7pm X-Men Days of Future Past
Sunday 18 May 1pm Never Ending Story (G) 3pm The Invisible Woman (M) 6pm Grand Budapest Hotel (M)
Sunday 25 May 1pm Princess Bride (PG) 3pm Grand Budapest Hotel (M) 6pm X-Men Days of Future Past
www.therex.org.au
daylesfordcommunitytheatre
The Daylesford Community Theatre, 47-53 Vincent St, Daylesford VIC 3460
28 Out and About
The Local
Fully Licensed
Call for bookings 0414 830 435 Try our sumptuous winter warmer menu including homemade soup and damper and our deliciously spicy mulled wine
Autumn splendour. How a garden in Raglan Street, Daylesford can look. Just sayin’...
105 Central Springs Road
The Local
Nom Nom Nom! 29
Fine dining, with a nice twist, at Cosy Corner
I
T’S fine dining, without the starch – or the prices.
That’s one way to describe Cosy Corner, nestled down in Tenth Street in Hepburn Springs. We arrived earlyish on a Monday evening. It was freezing outside but inside a lovely fire and peaceful tunes offered warmth and comfort. Jenny was the perfect host, while husband Shane, a chef for 30 years, provided a fantastic dining experience.
Entrees
For entrees Jenny suggested the saganaki ($16.50) – served with poached pear, house-made tomato relish and grilled Turkish bread. The combination was delicious. The cheese was perfectly cooked, the pear sweet and the relish spicy. Pile up all up on the bread and it was little bites of pure delight. Kyle opted for the pan-fried scallops ($17.50) with lime and tequila homemade mayonnaise and salad greens. The scallops, with beautiful roe attached, were plump and cooked just right. I managed to get just one. Yum. My entree for another time will be the chargrilled capsicum and house cured salmon roulade ($16.50). It was certainly tempting - capsicum, roquette, red onion, Meredith goat’s cheese and salmon roll served with grilled Turkish bread, roquette and parmesan salad. The in-house flat breads ($8-$8.50) which floated past a bit later also looked incredible.
Mains
Choosing the mains was difficult. There’s the set menu with seven dishes – then there’s the special’s board with 11 dishes. I don’t know how Shane does it – but he does. Kyle couldn’t go past the pork rib-eye ($33) with slow cooked pork belly, mash, roasted and steamed vegies with an apple/rhubarb chutney. It was huge. And delicious. Perfectly cooked pork, wonderful light mash, great vegies and the sauce was a big hit. “Definitely homemade,” was the pronouncement from a very happy camper. I chose the prawn and scallop spaghetti ($28) with roquette, spinach, tomato, garlic and chilli. Again, a huge serve, and every bit as tasty with those plump scallops making another appearance along with tender prawns all in a slightly spicy tomato sauce. How long’s this been going on for? As I said, there are 18 main choices, too many to list but including chicken kiev, dukkah crusted barramundi, fish pie, Cosy carpet bag steak and eggplant parmigiana.
Sweet things
We passed on desserts, although Jenny said most people manage to complete the dining trifecta, and opted for a lovely single shot long black to finish our meal. (If you’re a dessert person, and who isn’t, think rhubarb and apple crumble, sticky date pudding and toffee sauce or chocolate terrine. Oh, there’s also a dessert special’s board – of course.)
Something special
Cosy Corner also offers a local’s night on Tuesdays with curries and hot pots for just $18. There’s also Fish Night Friday with fish dinners just $26.50 with a glass of wine. And no rest for Shane – the a la carte menu is also available.
Drinks
Jenny and Shane are big supporters of the local wine industry – think Captains Creek, Barcaldine House, Sandy Farm and Sailors Falls. House wine is just $7 a glass and $28 for a bottle. Fine dining, fine wining, no starch and great prices. What’s not to love.
30 The Garden
The Local
THE GARDEN by Jackie Airey
I
REMEMBER when I would walk to Lee Street Primary School in North Carlton, my route would take me along Canning St, with its nature strip planted with very fat old date palms, and past the local park, Curtain Square. Outside the fence of the park and overhanging the footpath were a number of mature London Planes, the public landscaping tree of choice in Melbourne in the first half of the 20th century, but since fallen out of favour. In summer, they would cast a cool and shady apple green haze over the lawn and footpath, providing some much needed respite on those searingly hot afternoons when hats were not compulsory schoolwear, nobody wore sunscreen and the walk home meant traversing sticky, melting asphalt, reflecting the heat at us from all angles.
By autumn, their buttery yellowness lit up the shadows till the walk to school meant falling leaves brushing against my cheek as I passed. At this time, they were prime candidates for “show and tell” when I could regale the class with all of the obvious stuff about changing seasons, sap flow and sugar levels. Then they became a tactile delight, providing everyone’s image of the typical autumn leaf - all brown, crinkly and more importantly, crunchable. Wading through deep drifts of them became the favourite part of the trip, often translating into being marked late at both ends! (If it was dry enough, I’d lay down on the grass, try to cover myself with them and completely lose all sense of time.) Even with their foliage gone, they were beautiful, with smooth, mottled grey and cream trunks. And they still provided more distraction on chilly mornings, as I dodged the melting frost dripping from their branches and passing them became like an obstacle course. But this was also the time when their stubbly round golf balls of seed pods became the favourite weapons of the local bullies. They were full of fibrous seeds and generally known as itchy balls. The boys would sneak up behind us, pull at our collars and shove squashed pods down our backs. They thought it was “oh so funny”, watching us squirm and squeal, trying to get rid of the stuff - of course, they were hoping that we’d just pull all of our clothes off to free ourselves. I suppose this was one of the reasons, along with the planes tendency to send out huge roots that lifted up asphalt, concrete, lawns, fences, roads, house foundations and anything else in their way, that caused them to fall out of favour with the municipalities. I wonder if any of the older ones remaining in various Melbourne suburbs are still appreciated by passing children on their way to school. I’d like to believe that they are.
Bronze sculpture gift S
TUART Rattle’s family has gifted a bronze sculpture, Boy with Thorn, to the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens as a memorial to the interior designer.
The sculpture, of a boy removing a thorn from the sole of his foot, comes from the sunken garden at Musk Farm. The property will be up for auction later this month. Friends president Patrice O’Shea said the sculpture was “a beautiful and valuable addition to the botanic gardens and so evocative of Stuart and his own garden”. The Friends are in talks with Hepburn Shire about where and when the sculpture will be installed. Meanwhile, garden designer Paul Bangay has arranged for a book celebrating Musk Farm to be published by Penguin Books. Mr Bangay and Simon Griffiths will work with Annemarie Kelly and editors at Penguin to produce a testament to Stuart’s consummate house and garden design. The proceeds of the book will go to Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.
The Local
Dining 31
Welcome to The Farmers Arms Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner The Farmers Arms Daylesford offers the perfect blend of country charm combined with a sophisticated menu, wine list and professional service. 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
32 The Scene
The Local
Friday night raffles
W
ANT to help a local organisation - and have fun?
Time to take part in a Friday night raffle. The Farmers Arms Hotel in Daylesford holds its weekly Friday night meat tray raffle to help local organisations raise much needed funds. For the next fortnight members of the Daylesford Netball Club will be selling tickets to raise money for new uniforms. Tickets go on sale around 6.30pm and the raffle is held at 7.30pm. Meanwhile, the Old Hepburn Hotel also holds its weekly Choke a Chook raffle on Friday nights. Call the Old Heppy to book your organisation’s raffle.
red nonna Simple food. Simply Italian. 3 Howe Street, Daylesford // (03) 5348 3367 Open every day (except Wednesday) 8am – 5pm
Locals’ deals
F
OR the locals - by the locals
Locals are always looking for a great deal – and the region’s restaurants and hotels are keen to make sure there is plenty on offer. Weekday specials are available from a host of establishments. Mondays, fittingly, is Mercato and also The Grande while on Tuesdays it’s hard to choose between Cosy Corner, Kazuki’s and Daylesford’s Royal Hotel. On Wednesdays it’s time for Sault or The Larder. And Thursdays head to The Daylesford Hotel or Daylesford Inn.
Know a locals’ deal and want to share? Email dhslocal@gmail.com
The Local
Musos 33
Our Musos Words/Image: Jack Larm
“I would have listened to one of Gillian’s albums four times a day for a year,” she says. “She had an amazing ability to find the perfect melodies for her IZANNE Richards childhood offered her many opportunities to develop her lyrics. They were the kinds of melodies that you could sing along to even after hearing them just love of music. once.” Her family was involved in missionary work Part of Lizanne’s journey to get to the front of in Africa and it was a golden period for a young the stage was learning to play the guitar. Her father creative because she was encouraged to sing and taught her three chords and this allowed her not play instruments. only to learn the songs she loved, but also gave her Her grandfather was a poet who enjoyed own voice something to pitch off. entertaining for family and friends. Her father, Her own songs started to emerge and she put although a hard-working medical practitioner, together a band called Lady Grey. With seven found time to sing and write songs. original songs and a few choice covers, she finally In high school her music developed even further got to the front of the stage. One of the highlights of as she focused on classical violin, piano and that time was winning first place with a song called trombone. The latter because there was a shortage of trombone players and lessons were being offered Of Wifely Constitution in the Good Folk Club competition. for free. Now more confident, she started performing After university, with a teaching degree, she under her own name. In 2011, she was offered a headed for London with her violin. She found work teaching and, more importantly, a musical outlet in songwriting mentorship with established musicians, which eventually led to her meeting music producer Glasgow, Scotland with a band called Oldsolar. Shane O’Mara. “The music scene in Glasgow was enthralling,” He was instrumental in helping and guiding her she says. “It was there that I knew I wanted to come while they recorded her self-titled debut album to the front of the stage with my music.” which received glowing reviews. Having been so inspired and finding less and less joy in teaching, Lizanne devoted more time to her music. The central dilemma, of course, was how to go about writing the songs that would transform her into a singer-songwriter. She found inspiration in the music of Gillian Welch.
L
Show this ad in store and receive
20% off 4 or more bottles of wine One per customer per day.
Conditions apply - see staff for details Offer ends 25/05/14 Cellarbrations @ foxxy’s our region’s largest local and boutique wine specialists Open every day until late 55 Vincent Street Daylesford Tel: 03 5348 3577
34 The Scene
Gig Guide! Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Springs Benny Walker - Friday, May 16 9pm $5 Sarah Wilkinson - Sunday, May 18 4pm gold coin Nat Allison - Friday, May 23 9pm $5 Cam Kettle - Saturday, May 24 9pm $5
Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville Liz Frencham & People We Know - Thursday, May 16 dinner Grumpy Neighbour’s Lazy Dawg - Friday, May 17 dinner Lily P. - Saturday, May 18 lunch Family Farm - Saturday, May 18 dinner Lark - Sunday, May 19 lunch Russack Sisters - Sunday, May 19 dinner
Perfect Drop, Daylesford Charlotte and Annie - Friday, May 16 Jennie Brown and Bruce Miller - Saturday, May 17 Cartwheels - Friday, May 23 Family Farm - Saturday, May 24 Tania Petrini and Vida Jazz - Friday, May 30 Pete Rowland and Jenny Brown - Saturday, May 31
The Daylesford Swing Band is looking for a drummer & lead guitar player. If you have a passion for swing/jazz music, can read music & would like to play with 19 other likeminded people. Please contact Sarah 0414 079 562 or Marc 0418 560 477 to organise an audition.
The Local
The Local
Dining American style
The Scene 35
B
URGERS and fries. Fried chicken and tender ribs. Onion rings and blistered corn. Yessiree. It’s all made with love and it’s all now available in Daylesford.
The Galley Diner, at 105 Vincent Street, opened a fortnight ago, and is quickly becoming “the” place for lunch, dinner, takeaways and everything in-between. Owners Anna Van Lieshout and Dorian Padgham were keen for a tree change to bring up their young son in the country – as Anna was. So with Dorian’s passion for hearty, affordable, American-style food they found a beautiful old building and transformed it into the perfect American diner. That would be The Galley Diner. A relaxing place to enjoy a great meal. And it’s working. Locals have quickly found The Galley Diner and word of mouth has allowed the couple to enjoy and share their passion for great meals. They include “The Heart Starter” burger – with thick cut bacon, fried egg, avocado, lettuce and mayo, “The Woods” burger – portobello mushroom, avocado, haloumi, grilled eggplant, tomato and pickles and “BBQ Baby Back Tender Ribs” – smoked over applewood for eight hours and served wet or dry as a half or full rack. Think prices from $10 for the American Classic Cheese burger to just $25 for the half rack of ribs. Oh, there are also amazing sides like blistered corn with paprika lime butter, fried chicken, apple cider onion rings or house Asian slaw. Yum! On the drinks side, The Galley Diner is licensed with a range of spirits, beer and wine available, and there’s also, of course, Coke or malt shakes and spiders. The Galley Diner is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11am to 9pm. Reservations are welcome and feel free to call ahead with takeaway orders if you’re in a hurry. And watch this space – dinners are set to become even more interesting with steak and seafood on the way. And the couple is also available to cater for events. Nom nom nom!
Reservations and orders: 5348 3884
Bellinzona
in the Heritage Restaurant
Come and try our new High Tea menu served in our Heritage Restaurant every Saturday from 12noon to 3pm Ribbon Sandwiches Begin your journey with a selection of delicate ribbon sandwiches Scones & Conserve Savour, Bellinzona’s Honey & Fig scones, with double cream and strawberry conserve Petit Fours Spoil yourself with dainty handmade petit fours Tea & Coffee Your choice of expresso coffee or the following tea selections: English Breakfast Irish Breakfast Earl Grey
a popular tea with a strong, full bodied blend of North Indian, Kenyan and other select black teas (Loose Leaf) A strong, full bodied black tea blend with a rich flavour and aroma (Loose Leaf) a black tea scented with bergamot oil that is extracted from the rind of the bergamot orange (Loose Leaf)
Green Tea a smooth and rounded tea with a slightly nutty flavour. It is very high in antioxidants and contains no caffeine (Tea Bag) Peppermint, orange, lemon & chamomile (Tea Bag) High Tea $39.00 per person Royal High Tea $49.00 per person Includes: High Tea and a glass of Sparkling wine
36 Business Guide
Promote your business here from just $25!
ian petty legal 53 North Vincent Street Daylesford 3460 5348 1080 Fax by arrangement ianpettylegal@gmail.com
Call Malcom Tyquin for all your septic tank and grease trap de-sludging. 7 days a week 0418 507 172 All areas!
Miles Electrical.Rec15116.
Small Job Specialist All household electrical work guaranteed Daylesford /Hepburn region... Phone Gary Miles 0458 112 777 106 Albert St, Creswick garymiles5 @gmail.com
Looking for The Local? The Local is at newsagencies, information centres, general stores, Hepburn Post Office, Daylesford Coles Liquorland, Daylesford IGA, Flemo’s and Cellarbrations Daylesford. And cafes and hotels! Or 24/7 at www.tlnews.com.au
Railway Crescent, Daylesford Phone: 03 5348 2586 Fax: 03 5348 1200 Email: sales@chss.com.au
Promote your business here from just $25!
Business Guide 37
Mccarthy Firewood Sugargum firewood sales Bags of kindling & Bags of small wood. Leonards Hill 0418 137 195 Mob 0407 688 792 Mob
COMPUTER PROBLEMS? I will come to you! On-site support for PCs and Macs, home and business. Phone: 0466 238 178
Moss Shading Solutions For Hepburn Shire’s total shading solutions talk to Brian & Deborah Moss
Exterior Awnings Folding Arm Tension systems Drop screen Traditional canvas
Internal Blinds Roller & sunscreen Roman blinds Shutters
SOMFY MOTORISATION SPECIALISTS
RING FOR QUOTATION / ADVICE 5348 4045 8B, 37 EAST ST, DAYLESFORD (NO SHOWROOM)
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
Qualified Arborist - Jason Scholten Tree & Stump Removal Tree Pruning Storm Damage Removal Mulch Sales
Outdoors 39
Mother’s Day Massacre YESTERDAY was the Daylesford Speedway’s Mother’s Day Massacre - clearly a long way from a quiet breakfast in bed. It was also a time members remembered Roz Moynihan, a true speedway enthusiast and volunteer, pictured left. About 14 women drivers were ready yesterday to contest the Roz Moynihan Memorial Trophy. Roz, a tireless volunteer in many organisations, passed away in May last year after a sudden illness. Main photo: Dean Miller Inset photo: Classic Thunderstruck
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