Gippslander April/May edition

Distributed in 6 Gippsland Shires

APRIL / MAY 2012

Circulation: 20,000

artsfestival

Kicks off in Gippsland, May 1 Gippsland is home to an enormous and growing Arts Festival, this year based on the theme of e-motions.

Organisers, Creative Gipps- 2, from 6-9pm at The Hub. Their land, have chosen the image for focus is eMOTION meets eART. this years Festival, from an entry A cocktail of of motion with emosubmitted by Darryl Whittaker. tion, spliced with the global “e” Seen on the left, it’s a photo- for online communication. graph of the inflatable Creative Sculpture in the gardens of ArGippsland Caravan, which will be chies on the Creek is happening travelling around Gippsland ac- on Saturday, May 5. Meeting the companying arts events during the emotional response of wanting Festival. to touch, hold and caress art. Top The caravan is very appropriate sculptors from the region will have to the 2012 event, as there will be their work on display. a live show, entitled Caravan BurYinnar will host Gippsland’s lesque, performed in each Shire by Creative Waste Exhibition, showFinucane and Smith. casing re-used, remade and reThey’re a globally acclaimed loved creations and inventions. salon of seductive, subversive Opening on Saturday, May 19 at and electrifying acts, and they’re 2pm, and contining through to flying straight from their South June 9, 2012.

American tour to spend a month in The Art Resource Collective at Gippsland.

Yinnar celebrates it’s 30th year as Bruthen will host two shows on an arts collective, the longest runFriday May 4 and Saturday May 5 ning in Victoria. at the Mechanics Hall in Bruthen.

More details and event dates Bbaa Arts Hub in Yarragon are can be found on the Arts pages inhaving their opening night on May side.

Cobb & Co Market Opens The opening weekend of the Cobb & Co Stables Market was successfully attended by hundreds of visitors, with crowds exceeding all expectations.

The Cobb & Co Stables was originally used by the Cobb & Co Stagecoach before the advent of motorised transport.

Situated between Raymond Street and Desailly Street, Sale, it’s become a popular “walkthrough” from the supermarket carpark to the main street.

Many old timer residents are happy to see the Stables come back to life, having fond memories of the horses and carriages that once frequented the building.

With over 26 indoor shops now nestled in the old Stables, it certainly has a “market” feel.

Mark Watson, the manager of the new complex, says the permanent shops are only the beginning.

“We have planned a variety of markets to be held inside the Stables on rotating weekends.”

“Variety Markets, a Craft Market, a Farmers Market and our specialty Art and Antique/Collectables market.”

See the inside back page for listings of all Gippsland Markets.

RAIL TRAIL LIFT-OUT • 4 page lift-out • Detailed maps • Tourist Info • Get out your bike

Strzelecki Track Rosedale Online Rip-out Trivia In our last edition, we printed an article about the benefits of small communities having their own website.

Unfortunately, we printed the incorrect website address, which was a very foolish mistake on our part, and we apologise to the Rosedale Business Community.

Their website is very comprehensive, listing tourist attractions, facilities and a full listing of local businesses.

It’s a perfect example of what a small community can do to promote their town to the region. Their latest addition is a local news section, featuring a full events calendar and community announcements that are likely to affect visitors and locals alike.

www.discoverrosedale.com.au

www.facebook.com/gippslander

That’s right, rip-out our Grand Strzelecki Track Trivia Quiz and take it with you on an adventure you may never forget.

Wild forests, wild rivers, wild animals ...

Come on, trek in the Wilderness.

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Shire News

April/May 2012

Latrobe Shire

Grand Strzelecki Tk Comedy community success @ Kernot

The City of Latrobe and the Wellington Shire are undertaking the transfer of all responsibility and management of the Grand Strzelecki Track to the Grand Strzelecki Track Inc community group.

The group formed as a result of a is to be produced, promoting the enseries of public meetings throughout tire region as an eco-friendly, natu2010, seeing the need for a united ral, tourist destination.

Local use of the track has inapproach to the managing of the encreased considerably, with hundreds tire Track.

The community group now has of bikers taking to the track every all relevant licences and agreements weekend. with relevant landowners along the The community has received a length of the Track. contribution from both Shires to the A track as large as the Grand Str- value of $10,000 per annum, with a zelecki, requires constant ongoing requirement for the group to raise a maintenance, requiring the organi- further $20,000 for maintenance.

To fully complete the infrastrucsation of groups of volunteers and ture of the Grand Strzelecki Track contractors.

It’s a large undertaking for a com- another $100,000 is required.

Fundraising activities are already munity group and they appear to be extremely passionate about their beginning, with support needed from local communities and business venture.

A comprehensive marketing plan groups along the Track.

Stuffing one of the world’s largest comedy festivals into the one show is no easy feat, but the Melbourne International Comedy Festival has done just that with Roadshow 2012 set to hit Kernot Hall, Morwell on Wednesday 2 May. But book early as tickets to this ever-popular show are already selling fast.

Offering a selection of Australian, international and special guest comedians, the Roadshow is literally all the best bits of the Comedy Festival condensed into the one ‘all killer, no filler’ travelling event.

Latrobe City’s performing arts and venues coordinator, Kathleen Roberts, said that the cast for the Morwell show would include some top picks from the festival.

“Daniel Townes will MC the show and comedians Mike Wilmot, Bob Franklin, Celia Pacquola and Anne Edmonds will star, delivering their own unique brand of humour guaranteed to have you in stitches,” Ms Roberts said.

To make your booking for the Roadshow, call the Kernot Hall box office on 03 5176 3559.

April/May 2012

Shire News

East Gippsland Shire

Gold in them there hills Pacific Minerals, an Australian mining company, presently based in Western Australia, is planning on striking gold in East Gippsland.

Greg Poole, Pacific Minerals Exploration Manager, says the drive to setup a major exploration project, north of Bairnsdale was driven by the current high price of gold.

With most efforts in the past focussed on Bendigo and Ballarat, East Gippsland’s gold reserves were largely left untouched during the late 1900s boom.

This was due to several factors, the main being the difficulty in extracting the mineral from deeper, inaccessible sites.

Greg and his team have been working on bringing three exploration licenses together over the

past 10 years, in an effort to construct a true goldfield.

In an interview on ABC Radio, Mr Pooley said these are early days yet, and a great deal of time and effort are still required to find out what’s actually going to happen.

Preliminary work has already been carried out, and the next step is to do extensive mapping of the

entire exploration area.

“The local community can rest assured we are a small company, with a small budget, and we intend to spend our money wisely.”

“The Victorian Mines Department are very stringent on work plans, and we intend to leave a very small footprint with very little disturbance to the surrounding farmland and forests.”

Nowa Nowa Ore Project Outstanding Metallurgical results have come primarily from 40 diamond drill holes made during the 1950s in Nowa Nowa.

Eastern Iron owns 100% of the project and are pleased with their initial estimates.

Greg De Ross, managing director, said “It is encouraging to have defined a resource in a short period, since acquiring the Nowa Nowa project.”

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“We will continue to investigate available options for a potential mining and development site.”

“In addition, we intend to expand the resource through further exploration of adjacent areas to the known deposits. Results anticipated in the coming months.”

Infrastructure is already in place, with rail, sealed highways and several port options being investigated.

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South Gippsland Shire

Shire News Bass Coast Shire

Staying active

Nature Retreat for Prom South Gippsland Shire has again come out winners, with the Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy formally approving the rezoning of land for a proposed international standard accommodation facility at the Prom Gate.

The Prom has long been the ultimate destination for tourists visiting the South Gippsland region.

However, there has always been limits to visitor numbers due to the restrictions placed on the current Tidal River accommodation precinct.

The proposed Nature Retreat intends to minimise the tourist footprint on the Prom, by housing all the infrastructure and accom-

modation just south of Yanakie, just 450m from the entrance to the National Park.

There is currently no public transport access to The Prom, car access is restricted during busy periods and visiting coaches must travel over 70 km to access viable accommodation.

With excellent nature based activities, there was a real need for an eco-friendly resort within easy access to the Prom. The proposed Retreat site is on 256 acres with a northerly aspect, and views of the mountains of Wilsons Promontory.

Improvements to the land, already completed, include the planting of 150,000 trees for shelter from the wind and the construc-

tion of three large water storages.

Having no access to town water, the resort will design it’s own water catchment and recycling system. Due to the northerly aspect, solar power may also be utilised to conserve energy and feed into the grid.

The entire philosophy of the proposed resort is a holistic approach, meaning community consultation and working with the existing environment.

Mr Tom Tootell, the landowner, has been promoting the creation of the Retreat for eight years and is eager to meet developers and investors who are interested in a sustainable, eco-friendly development.

Wellington Shire

A Shared Perspective Wellington Shire Council is proud to present A Shared Perspective, a collaborative exhibition between Hendrik and Kerryn Forster, at its Gippsland Art Gallery in Sale.

Over the last three decades,

Gippsland based artists Hendrik and Kerryn have become known as two of Australia’s leading metalwork artists.

Occupying all three gallery spaces at the Gippsland Art Centre, Sale, A Shared Perspective celebrates the creative vision of each artist.

Hendrik and Kerryn live in the hills north of Bairnsdale.

Hendrik’s distinctive style is a rich hybrid of forms and ideas. Modernist geometric design comes in part from his training in Munich. Urban Germany and rural Australia is reflected in the materials, form, finish and symbolic meaning of Hendrik’s work.

Kerryn applies her training in gold and silversmithing to create precisely constructed sculptures.

Her work comprises organic and found objects, selected for the

April/May 2012

textures and colours that spark the design vision.

The exhibition is on display until Sunday May 20, 2012.

Also part of the exhibition is the Kid’s Cube, where children and families can construct a 3 dimensional house from paper. After creating, you use a leaf shape to alter it’s appearance, while exploring the use of colour, pattern, texture and symbols.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s new Home Carer recruits are about to start their 12 month traineeship in Home and Community Care.

Upon completion of their and in addition to their training are course, they will have a profes- given up to 15 hours a week work sional qualification and the oppor- in the HACC program. tunity to continue their work with Home Carers give practical the Shire. support and active assistance to Each year, up to six students people who are frail, aged or disaare selected for the traineeships, bled.

Climate change in Inverloch Residents and businesses at Inverloch are being requested to participate in a survey as to how their climate-adapted community will fare in 20 years time.

Dr Janet Stanley, Chief Re- ability of Inverloch to adapt to clisearch Officer at the Monash Sus- mate change. tainability Institute, says the InverFactors include personal, soloch advisory group will represent cial, psychological, environmental the views of the local community and economic issues. By including and give suggestions on how they the community in discussions, it is could use the survey results. hoped they will then have more inWorkshops will be run, with in- put when government adopts politerested participants, to assess the cies that will affect them.

Baw Baw Shire

Heart Starters

Neerim District Community Bank Branch in partnership with St John Ambulance Victoria has presented four sporting clubs and two CFA branches with life-saving automatic defibrillator units.

This comes off the back of St John’s new community pro-

gram, Heart Start, launched last month, which will see it give away $385,000 worth of lifesaving defibrillator equipment and training to Victorian sporting clubs, ahead of the 2012 winter sports season.

The program comes in response to the spate of cardiac arrests that occurred at community sporting events last year, and St John’s desire to help avoid preventable deaths in the 2012 season.

Paul Bright, Chairman of the Neerim District Financial Services Limited which operates the Neerim District Community Bank Branch said the Board saw our involvement in the program as being a big step towards equipping sporting clubs and community groups with defibrillator units that may help to save lives.

“Access to a defibrillator is the most important factor in saving a life following cardiac arrest according to St John Ambulance and we wanted to ensure the best possible chance of a good outcome.

April/May 2012

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Mirboo North Art Gras

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Arty Gras - not your ordinary parade

you’ve got to come along and see ...

Mirboo North, renowned for scenic views of the Gippsland hills, has much more than spectacular landscapes to offer over the Mother’s Day weekend.

Mirboo North’s grand festival will take over the town in May, with the centre piece being the Art Show.

Voted South Gippsland’s Event of the Year in 2011, Arty Gras is a prestigious annual event on the Gippsland Arts calendar.

Categories in the Art Show will encompass 2D, 3D, sculpture, photography, textiles and jewellery, with prize money exceeding $5,000.

Featured activites on the weekend will be lots of activites for children, exhibitions of photographs, quilts, model railways, vintage cars and dancing chooks.

CircaNICA’s performing trio, KnockOff, will be one of the headline acts during the parade and afterwards on stage.

A feature event for local teenagers will be a two day performance workshop focussing on contemporary dance, improvisation, circus arts and physical theatre.

It will be conducted by Steph Hutchison, an independent choreographer, performer and teaching artist and will culminate in a free public presentation, followed by a solo performance from Ms Hutchison.

(This project was made possi-

ble by the Australian Governments regional arts program, the Regional Arts Fund, which gives all Australians, wherever they live, better access to opportunities to practise and experience the arts. The Regional Arts Fund is administered in Victoria by Regional Arts Victoria.)

An exciting addition to this year is the travelling organ, Australia Fair, which links Arty Gras to the grand tradition of festivals in Europe. The music from the travelling organ provides a carnival atmosphere and plays the happiest music in the world.

Traditionally, it has been the parade that has attracted the greatest number of smiles and pulled in the most visitors. But this year, with such a lineup of talented artists, the music and art shows may just surpass everyone’s expectations.

The historic Shire Hall will exhibit the artwork. Rich in local history, it has been the home of community events for the last 74 years.

Friday night sees the official opening, with artwork winners being announced. Intense bidding will then begin on the auctioning of the Primary School children’s artwork. Live music and ample food and refreshments will be served.

Live music is the order of the entire weekend, with more than a dozen acts performing on one of the main stages or in the more inti-

mate locations.

Visit Mirboo North’s website for detailed information and event schedule www.mirboonorth.vic. au/artygras or www.mirboonorthartshow.com.au.

Mirboo Nth puts on a show

This year’s Arty Gras is more than just Art and Parades. With a great line-up of talent over the Mother’s Day weekend, be sure not to miss the music, workshops and theatre.

Jane Coker and Friends

Along with friends Jane has gathered together, Betty McLoughlan, Wendy Sellings and Sue Cullen, we’re likely to be treated to banjos, ukuleles and perhaps some saxophone.

They’ll be performing on Saturday, May 12 at the Bullock Dray Cafe from 10-11 am.

The Nigellas The local Celtic music group, the Nigellas are performing on the Baromi Park stage on Saturday, May 12 from 12:45 to 1:25pm.

Eddie Rayner and Brian Baker With a sound that incorporates their pasts in Split Enz and The Makers, Eddie and Brian are back, offering what they do best.

For more information on show times and locations, visit the Mirboo North website, www.mirboonorth.vic.au/artygras.

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Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally

April/May 2012

Vintage Rally set to impress Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally Saturday & Sunday May 19 & 20 at the Gordon Street Reserve

The noise of Clanking Tractors, Putting Engines and Steam Whistles echoes around the town of Heyfield on the third weekend of May every year.

Locals know only too well the tralia’s heritage being preserved sights and sounds of the Heyfield for future generations to admire and District Vintage Machinery and also learn about.

Group’s Annual Rally.

Gates to the Rally open at 9am, Every year Club Members, closing at 4pm on Saturday and along with fellow enthusiasts from 3pm Sunday. Onsite catering is other Clubs throughout Victoria also available over the weekend and even New South Wales, fill the at the Rally grounds. Admission is Gordon Street Recreation Reserve $10 per adult, $5 per child (5 -16), with their pride and joy. Every- $25 per family, under 5 is free thing from Stationary Engines of So remember to put the 14th all shapes and sizes to Steam En- and 15th of May down in your gines and Boilers, Vintage Cars, diary as a weekend to reminisce Trucks, Tractors, Motorbikes and amongst the machinery that was Memorabilia can be seen over the such a common sight many years course of the weekend. ago.

The Family always has plenty The family orientated Club, to look at at the Rally. Blacksmith which began in 1983, is based in Demonstrations, Working Exhib- Heyfield but has Members spread its, Various Stalls, Daily Grand from Pakenham to Bairnsdale and Parade, Tractor Pull and this year beyond. New members are always sees the introduction of Miniature welcome, Meetings are held on Paddle Steamers to the Rally. It is the first Wednesday of the month more than enough to keep every- at the Clubrooms in Fawaz Street, one entertained, from the toddlers Heyfield. The Club can be conthrough to the grandparents! tacted at hdvmg@bigpond.com The Exhibitors, proud of their or by ringing the Secretary, Barb restorations, are only too happy to Cook, on 03 – 5148 0531. More talk about their treasure to anyone information will also be available wanting to learn about part of Aus- at the Rally

All photos of the Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally courtesy of www. http://modelsteam.myfreeforum.org, user ozsteamdemon, who must have visited last years Rally.

Sustainable town thrives on farming and timber At the southern extremity of the Snowy Mountain range, is a rural township called Heyfield.

Situated on the Thompson River, Heyfield services the timber industry and a large dairy farming community.

Originally the area was named Hayfield, having been described by an early settler as a “field of waving corn”.

Australia’s first self made millionaire, James Tyson, then purchased the property, and took advantage of the growing population of diggers passing through to the goldfields.

A Post Office was opened in 1870 as the population began to expand. At it’s peak, 8 sawmills operated within close proximity.

Today, Heyfield still has the largest sawmilling centre in Victoria. It’s nestled at the foothills to the Alpine National Park, and is

nearby the pristine Avon Wilderness reserve.

Heyfield has also become involved in a Sustainable Smart Town program.

They are winners of the United Nations World Environment

Day Award for working through a program to have 25% of their population reducing their carbon footprint considerably. The program reduces household energy consumption and encourages recycling of solids and water.

April/May 2012

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Creative Gippslanders

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Creative Gippsland 2012 e-motion across Gippsland The month of May will see Gippsland transformed into an artistic adventure playground, with events and shows planned throughout all Gippsland Shires.

An exhibition not to be missed is a solo exhibition by Rod Bechaz, focussing on beach and coastal themes.

Rod specialises in Pin-Hole photography, creating much interest in this re-developed artform.

Rod will be displaying his works at the Gallery arc, in Yinnar, until May 12.

The Gallery arc is a very unique centre for creativity and contemporary arts, with eight small galleries available for hire by artists.

One of Rod Bechaz’s coastal images on display in Gallery arc, Yinnar

The Big Matrix 3D is a celebration of young creative energy.

Artwork from twelve Gippsland Schools created a beautiful exhibition in 2010.

This promises to be a unique experience and a chance to view

Last year’s Big Matrix 3D - young creative energy

the work of up and coming local Gippsland artists.

Their show runs till August 12 at the Gippsland Art Gallery, Foster Street, Sale.

If you’re looking at releasing your own creative genius, get along to a weekly workshop where artists create their own projects.

BYO your materials and enjoy a relaxed, friendly, creative group of like minded people at the Uniting Church Hall in Drouin.

Groups meet weekly from 12:30 to 3:30 each Tuesday for an afternoon of creative bliss.

Another form of art, with plenty of controversy surrounding it, is portraiture.

The Prom Coast Arts Inc is proud to present their annual Great Southern Portrait Prize exhibition, on again till May 8 at the Stock-

Cassandra Rijis’ winning portrait in 2011 - Waiting

yard Gallery in Foster.

Last year’s winner was Cassandra Rijis, with her stunning portrait seen above.

Great prize money is being offered to tempt some high quality artists and portraits.

Portraits have always be controversial. Such that there’s a

discussion being held at the Fish Creek Memorial Hall on Saturday, April 28 to engage and share your thoughts on portraits, and what should be allowed and what not.

As per this year’s winner of the Archibald prize, Tim Storrier, with a self-portrait, but no face. www.creativegippsland.com.au

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April/May 2012

Creative Gippslanders

(F)route ... what is it?

artistofthemonth

Wendy Worner: Felt/textile artist

(F)route is an arts project that is now buzzing across East Gippsland.

“It’s a big project that is exploring wild, backyard, secret and public fruit - through art. Eating it, bottling it, growing it and everything else related to it,” says organiser Andrea Lane.

After a summer full of (f)route breakfasts, “CARTography” is the next stage stage of the project, with three contemporary artists Samara McIlroy, Georgia Snowball and Chaco Kato returning to EG to help us “map” our fruit culture - artistically.

To register your interest and participate in the fruity breakfasts visit their website at www.froute.com.au.

Lakes Entrance Rotary Art Shows Once again, the Rotary Club of Lakes Entrance is busy organising their two annual Art Shows.

First up is the annual Schools Art Show, encompassing all schools in the Gippsland area.

Held at Mechanics Hall in Lakes Entrance on Saturday May 26 and Sunday May 27, it will consist of artwork produced by Gippsland school children.

Hundreds of pieces are expected to be on display, with some very special prizes in stall.

A select group of local Gippsland artists will also select groups of children for workshops aimed at fine tuning their artistic skills and broadening their horizons.

Riviera Art on Show is scheduled for the June 8 weekend.

Opening night will be on Friday night, with tickets available from the Lakes Entrance Rotary Club.

The entire weekend will be a feast of Art with artists from all over Victoria and Australia presenting their works for show and sale.

Riviera Art on Show is held in the iconic Forestech building, a few kilometres west of Lakes Entrance, on the Princes Hwy. www.lakesentrancerotary.org.

Wendy began her adult life as an art-teacher and artist in New Zealand. Her Australian career as a felter began after attending felting lessons where she was smitten and excited by this creative process.

She was invited to have her first exhibition at the Briagalong Art Gallery, where her work engendered much interest and many positive comments. Initially she explored creating large wool, alpacca and silk discs, inspired by the night sky and Hubble Space Station images; and experimented with whimsical three dimensional silk and wool felted insects and animals.

Wendy has an abiding passion for texture and colour and gets her inspiration from the plant and mineral kingdoms. She is cur-

rently creating beautiful silk and wool scarves, wraps, dolls and wallhangings exclusively using natural fibres ,-merino and alpacca wool and the finest Indian tissue silks.

Wendy’s collection is based on three felting styles…cobweb, nuno, and fabric felting. Her collection includes gossamer lengths of felted silk and wool dyed in gloriously vibrant colours, to be worn as long or short scarves and wraps. The textures of her creationsare unbelievably soft and warm, as light as air, and the delicate and lustrous embellishments reflect seasons and moods. Her attention to detail is faultless, and her placement of patterns and design are organic and irresistable.

Wendy’s creations are on exhibition and for sale at SPLASH Women’s Co-operative, next door to the Ticklish Turtle Coffeehouse, in Stratford.

Calling all artists Wellington Shire Council’s Gippsland Art Gallery is now calling for entries for the 2012 John Leslie Art Prize.

The John Leslie Art Prize is one of Australia’s most prestigious prizes for landscape painting, and is open to all artists living and working in Australia. John Leslie OBE, Patron of the Gippsland Art Gallery generously sponsors this non-acquisitive Prize.

The 2012 John Leslie Art Prize is offered in four award categories: 1st Prize: $15,000, 2nd Prize: $3,000, 3rd Prize: $1,000 and Best Gippsland work: $1,000.

Entries close at 5.00pm Tuesday 31 July, 2012.

An exhibition of the selected paintings will be held at the Gippsland Art Gallery from 29 September to 25 November, 2012 with the winners of all award categories being announced at the official opening on Friday 28 September.

“Each year the John Leslie Prize brings to light some extraordinary work by a wide range of very talented artists from across the country. I encourage artists to take up the challenge and look forward to seeing this year’s entries, said Mayor Peter Cleary.”

Entry forms are available online at www.wellington.vic.gov. au/gallery or by telephoning (03) 5142 3372.

April/May 2012

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Creative Gippslanders

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Old world comes Read about a fly who writes Local writer Andy exposes his issues with flies to Warragul I awoke yesterday morning with a bit of a twitch. Not a continuing thing… just the one. As my eyes started to focus I gazed upon a fly on the ceiling.

Seeing that I still had another fifteen minutes to sleep I rolled over and shut my eyes. A moment later, I was again disturbed by the small dance of the fly on my cheek. I lazily waved my hand at it and upon investigation, found it again at rest on the ceiling.

It stared at me as if to say…

“No way Dave, you’re not sleeping anymore this morning.” What could I do? I got up and switched off the alarm and went to get a cuppa.

Later as I left, with my wife yelling something about letting her oversleep, I battled with a fly as I headed out the door. As I hopped in the car it insisted in joining me for my short drive to our little shop, perched on windscreen just kind of twitching, as flies do.

Swatted away the fly as I booted my PC

Baroque costumes featured at the opening of the Renaissance Warragul on March 25.

The Early Arts Guild of Victoria are putting on a Mother’s Day concert entitled “Wild Melancholy”.

Featuring Kari Lyon, Saman- with a splendidly decorated Queen tha Cohen and Ryan Williams, the Elizabeth virginal, made by Marc concert will be performed at the Nobel, being the centerpiece. The Wesley of Warragul, 62 Victoria virginal was the Queen’s main St, Warragul, on Sunday, May 13, keyboard instrument.

2:15pm.

Also on show will be a number Henry Purcell’s famous aria, of the fascinating double reed wind “Sweeter than Roses” will be a instruments of the period. These feature of this concert. will include the cornameuse, Up and coming events, include dulzaine and the strangely curved a colorful Renaissance spectacle, krummhorn, which was a favorite unmatched elsewhere in the na- at the court of King Henry VIII. The curtal, from which the tion, – The Dancing Priest of Lanmodern bassoon evolved, will also gres.

The Rippon Lea Renaissance be heard. Plucked string instruDancers, Early Music Consort of ments will be represented by the Melbourne and vocalist Caitlin lute, and bowed types by the fidel Noble will be wearing spectacular - an ancient offshoot of the mediperiod court garments when they eval guitar family.

With such an array of early inperform for Renaissance Warragul at Wesley of Warragul in Victoria struments, The Dancing Priest of Langres will be a veritable gold St., on July 22.

All presentations will com- mine for music students. And it mence at 2.15 p.m. and will be of will also offer much to history, dance, drama and period costume one hour duration.

An extensive range of rare 16th enthusiasts.

For bookings and enquiries call century musical instruments will be a feature of these performances, 03 9699 8417.

Comedy in Sale!

The Entertainment Centre in Sale is about to host an internationally acclaimed Comedy Festival. The Esso BHP Billiton Centre has once again scored a major drawcard for visitors to the region.

Two shows will run for 90 min- centres around Australia. utes, the first on Thursday, May 3 Last year they also performed and then on Friday May 4. in Singapore, and a sold-out conThe idea is to bring all the com- cert in Hong Kong. edy we’ve been used to seeing in Book your tickets online at Melbourne, to over 60 regional www.ebbwec.com.au.

Once there, I decided to leave the car window open, so I wouldn’t have the same passenger on the way home. As I wiggled my key into the lock I began to wave a fly away. Had he followed me?

It looked suspiciously like the same damn pest. I went through my usual morning routine. Filled the till, turned the sign to ‘open’, poured myself some coffee, and swatted away a fly as I booted my computer.

As I poked away at dozen or so keys an hour, trying to find something to write, a fly landed right there on my screen. Surely not the same little insect. Or was it?

It looked about the same size and color. What other means had I to differentiate between flies. I had no way of telling it’s demeanor at this point. But it sat there, staring at me as I stared at it. Was it mock-

ing me in some way?

“You got nothin! What are you going to write today?” As I looked closer, I couldn’t help but notice where he had parked himself. He sat atop the letter R in the word randy (As I had been writing a naughty story out of boredom.) thus revealing the word or name as it was, Andy. So I thought this should be his name.

“Well Andy. What do you think of my story so far?” He seemed to turn round a bit on the screen, then flew off. Perhaps he thought it sucked. Maybe the screen was too warm, or maybe I should just hit delete and get on with more serious issues.

I watched him circle then land

I stared at my blank screen for awhile, wishing I had some inspiration. Wishing the fly would come back. Sure the fly was a pest, but he did get me back on target.

Or back to a blank screen.

Damn fly, I thought as I waved my hand around my head. HEY! That’s Andy. I watched him circle then land on my keyboard. I poked at him with one finger half hoping to squish him. I missed but typed the letter ‘A’.

He circled my head as I swatted again then landed once more on the keyboard. I struck and missed again, this time typing the letter ‘M’. He continued to taunt me and I continued my one fingered pursuit of the tiny creature. ‘O’ came next, then ‘R’. I then pecked out an ‘A’, then an ‘L’.

I could see that I was typing the word ‘amorality’. Which was exciting, as I never write anything that highbrow. I eagerly typed away at about two words a minute as the fly needed to circle between letters. Growing more excited I looked up at the monitor and saw that I had written amoralqureldsnvgd. “What the hell is that?” I shouted as I slumped in my chair.

The fly was now perched atop the monitor just laughing at me.

He cleaned his tiny legs and sat there mocking me. At swatted at him as I got up to refill my coffee cup.

Near the end of the day, I had still had nothing to write and the pesky little beast had taken a lot out of me. I found myself dozing in my chair. The little bastard had the nerve to perch himself on the tip of my nose. I opened my eyes and looked at him cross-eyed. I couldn’t be bothered. I let him rest there as I had a little rest.

Five o’clock came and I drove home with the windows down, as looked at him, this time on the dashboard. Still taunting me. “You got nothing to write.”

I got home and waved my hand around my head as I walked in the door. I kissed my wife then sat down with my laptop as she cooked dinner. There he sat on top of the screen. He flew off, circled my head twice, then landed on my forehead.

You look like an idiot

I leaned forward and began to type with the tiny pest at rest on my face. I was inspired. I began to write a story about a rather persistent fly.

My wife came in and sat down in the chair next to me. She looked over at me curiously and said, “You know… you have a blowfly on your forehead?” I said, “Yes I do.”

She turned away and looked at the television for a moment then in frustration turned back and said, “Well why don’t you swat it away?

You look like an idiot.” I replied calmly as I typed. “It’s fine, his name is Andy and he’s helping me write a story.”

David Kupisiewicz is the author of Becoming Johnny Nova, available at Amazon.com.

Off the Leash - video art Off the Leash theatre returns to the Be Inspired Creative Gippsland festival with four nights of video art and performance gallery including a special final night with live music and burning angels.

The west Gippsland based notfor-profit theatre company is newly formed but with a wealth of experience in cultural enrichment of, and utilisation of the artistic skills of people in the local community. (dis)connect includes the dramatic skills of Trafalgar High School school students with the talent of well know local actors and artisits including Warragul’s Bec Vandyk, Yarragon’s Wombat

Lyons, Drouin’s Jeannie Haughton and Trafalgar’s Laura Hartnell under the direction of music master Steven Forster and creative director Steve Wiegerink.

(Dis)connect interprets & performs images of emotion, which is the theme of this year’s festival.

Using video as an art medium, we have then created a rich tapestry of interrelated images, music, sounds, emotions, and cognitive concepts from local emerging artisans.

For more information, follow off the leash theatre with teeth on facebook, visit www.offtheleashtheatre.com.au or contact Wombat Lyons on 0409015662

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Chef’s Inside Tips & Tricks

Floating on the Lakes enjoying Cantonese Cuisine

Situated on the picturesque Gippsland Lakes, in Lakes Entrance, the Floating Dragon Restaurant specialises in the most delightful Cantonese dining.

Lakes Entrance has always been renowned for its fresh local seafood, being the fishing capital of Victoria. However, times are changing, and so is Lakes Entrance, so here’s a small story about change.

Kohn was always interested in tonese, influenced with a variety food. When he ran a motel, he fo- of westernized dishes. cussed on running the restaurant.

“Floating Dragon offers an exWhen the ex- Nautilis Float- perience for patrons to dine aboard ing restaurant in Lakes Entrance floating restaurant that offers unbecame available, Kohn couldn’t obstructed water views overlookresist the challenge. ing the Cunningham Arm,” said So, like all “life changes”, Kohn.

Unique to the Floating Dragon Kohn took to it with a passion.

“There is nothing more enjoya- is it’s Yum Cha or Dim Sum served ble for me than to cook Cantonese every Sunday from noon.

Yum Cha offers a range of food for the shared table. I receive so much pleasure spending an homemade dumplings and small evening amongst friends and fam- appetizers in which customers get ily, while sharing good food, wine to pick and choose as much or as little as they desire. Whilst Yum and company”, says Kohn.

“It is this simple pleasure that Cha is a common outing to those led me back to food and take on you live close to major cities, it the opportunity of the now Float- has not been so common to those residing in regional areas. ing Dragon dockside restaurant”.

Fortunately this is no longer the The Floating Dragon was established in late August 2011 and case, and those that wish to try a is situated on the Western Boat truly authentic Cantonese expeHarbor on the Gippsland Lakes. rience can now do so at Floating The cuisine is traditionally Can- Dragon.

Steamed Baby Snapper. A particularly delightful dish, bringing good fortune and peace on Chinese New Year.

Yum Cha, served every Sunday

Reservations are necessary especially if you’re after a sunset view. You can call (03) 51551400 to reserve your table. They are currently open Tuesdays through till Sunday from 6pm till late and serve Yum Cha from noon on Sunday. No B.Y.O, as they are fully licensed and their prices are very reasonable.

April/May 2012

The power of Raw

Who wants to live a long, healthy, balanced life? What does it take to be clear skinned, energetic and vibrant? Is a healthy body conducive to a clear mind?

Do you get the feeling, that all those books on health, by perfect looking people, are just another marketing campaign, similar to the fashion industry?

“You too can look like me, if you follow my advice and buy my products.”

As with all lifestyle changes, you start off, week one, enthusiastic and excited. Week two you’re scouring the markets for fresh produce. Week three you’re sick of cleaning the juicer, and week four, you’ve had enough. “Give me a roast dinner,” you cry.

I’m sure we’ve all been through the mill when it comes to fad diets and quick weight-loss programs.

All having great merit, and success for some, but somehow they just never last. Why? When it comes to our food intake, I think it takes more than just a desire to loose weight, or feel more energetic.

It takes passion and research.

Not one fad, nor one food regime, but a total understanding of what you eat and why you’re eating it.

What is food for? How does it affect you? What reactions do you have to eating certain foods?

Why even bother to change your diet? What benefits are you going to attain?

It really must be a holistic,

overall approach. Not just a focus on your weight, your complexion or your stamina.

A total lifestyle change is required to truly change your diet, permanently and for the better.

You must cultivate a desire to understand your body and it’s requirements. Your entire body and mind must be involved, not just your waist, your skin, your shoulders or your thighs.

The internet is a treasure trove of information for those interested in their health and wellbeing.

You can discover the truth about the connection between your health and the food you eat.

When that connection is made, within your own being, your change in diet becomes a total lifestyle change, as opposed to just another fad.

No longer stressing about weight, or energy levels, but instead thoughts of nutrients, digestion, quality of food and the source of food.

And talking about the source of your food, there are some great Gippsland food suppliers at your local Farmers Market. Most produce sold there is picked daily straight from the farm to you. :)

April/May 2012

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Ride the Gippsland Rail Trails

Bass Coast & Great Southern Rail Trails 4 Page Lift-Out

Leongatha Anderson

Meeniyan

Kilcunda

Wonthaggi

Fish Creek The Bass Coast Rail Trail is a spectacular coastal railtrail which can easily be ridden in both directions in a few hours.

Starting at Wonthaggi, it’s a 10km easy ride to Kilcunda.

The Bourne Creek trestle bridge (pictured) at Kilcunda is right on the beach, offering magnificent ocean views.

The scenery is a mix of farmland and

coastal heath, with beaches, rockpools and stands of paperbark along the way.

The trail from Kilcunda to Anderson is a steady climb, offering views of the large tailings heap at the old Mitchell Mine.

There are diversions off the original railway at Kilcunda, but after a short, steep climb it continues through rolling hills to Anderson.

Length: 16 km Surface: Fine gravel Terrain: Wonthaggi to Kilcunda flat, easy climb to Anderson Location: Wonthaggi Railway station site, carparking and shops close by. From Anderson, access the carpark opposite the roundabout to Phillip Island on the Bass Highway.

Prom Country Visitor Information Centres Tel: 1800 630 704 Open 7 days a week.

Korumburra South Gippsland Highway (Coal Creek) Foster Cnr McDonald & Main Streets, Foster

Foster

Walk, cycle or ride 50kms on The Great Southern Rail Trail. The trail is suitable for all energy levels.

The 50km fine gravel trail winds between Leongatha and Foster, with many access points on the way. The trail is mostly flat or gently undulating with moderate gradients from Fish Creek to Foster, an easy/ medium level of difficulty.

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The Great Southern Trail: • Leongatha to Koonwarra: 8km (2-3 hours return) • Koonwarra to Minns Rd: 3km remains closed. Due to limited shoulder on the highway we recommend you do not ride on the highway.

•

• • • •

•

Minns Rd to Meeniyan: 6km (2 hours return) Meeniyan to Stony Creek: 3.5km (1.5 hours return) Stony Creek to Buffalo: 8km (3-4 hours return) Buffalo to Fish Creek: 8km (4 hours return) Fish Creek to Lowrys Road: 5km (3-4 hours return) Lowrys Road to Foster : 7.5km (3-4hours return) Foster to Charity Lane: 1km (30min return)

Phone 1800 630 704 for further information and a brochure on the rail trails.

Length: 49 km Surface: Fine gravel Terrain: Leongatha to Fish Creek, hilly; easy ride to Foster.

Location: Leongattha east of the Railway station. Meeniyan, 100m north of the main Sth Gippsland Rd and 1km south of Foster on Station Road.

Grand Ridge Rail Trail

infocentre@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.visitpromcountry.com.au

Boolarra

Mirboo North

The Grand Ridge Rail Trail winds 13 picturesque kilometres between Mirboo North and Boolarra in the Strzelecki Ranges.

The rail trail is unique as it runs continuously along the site of the former railway track. The Grand Ridge Rail Trail has start/end points located within the two townships, and an access point midway at Darlimurla.

A two car shuffle may be employed by leaving car at either end. It is approximately 20 minutes by car

between the two towns. Surrounding track vegetation is dense and lush with towering Eucalypts a recurring feature.

A shorter walk can be done by starting/finishing at Darlimurla which is roughly half way between the two towns.

It takes approximately 3 hours (one way) to complete. The surface is gravel and slightly undulating, an easy/medium level of difficulty. Toilets are located in Boolarra and Mirboo North

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April/May 2012

Ride the Gippsland Rail Trails

Trestle Bridges, Tall Forests and Two Towns

Two Towns Trail

Noojee Trestle Bridge The restored Noojee Trestle Bridge is a legacy from the old railway which ran from Noojee to Warragul from 1919 until 1954.

You can actually begin this trek from Rokeby, north of Warragul, following the original formation for 4km to Crossover.

There is another wooden bridge over the railway, and following this track brings you to Neerim

South, then another 5.6km to Neerim.

Gorgeous hills and valleys with seats spaced at 1km intervals for weary travellers.

The Noojee Trestle Bridge is situated on a 1.48km trail amongst tall forests, just south of the Noojee township.

Access is via the Mt Baw Baw Tourist Road, with signs directing

you to the Trestle Bridge.

Information can be accessed via the Railtrails Australia website www.railtrails.org.au.

Record numbers of Baw Baw Shire residents continue to use the Two Towns Trail, with the trail attracting over 2,800 people per month.

The 8km trail that runs between installed behind the Warragul MoWarragul and Drouin has expe- tel and in Civic Park, Drouin.” rienced a 30 per cent increase in The Drouin section of the trail usage compared to the same time that runs through Gums Scrub last year.

Creek wetlands, sections of which Baw Baw Shire Mayor Coun- are being re-vegetated by Drouin cillor Diane Blackwood said the Landcare, is used the most with trail is a beautiful asset to the over 700 people per week walking Shire and the recent beautification or cycling. works have enhanced the trail.

“It’s great to see people using “Last year pause places com- the trail for walking, jogging, cyplete with mosaics by local artists cling and families spending time were installed, along with seats, together by walking the dog,” said bike racks and bins,” said the the Mayor.

Mayor.

“Some residents are even using “There is still more works to the trail to commute to and from be conducted with the Council en- work on their bikes.” dorsing the gateway feature conFor more information about the cept designs at a Council Meeting Two Towns Trail visit the Baw in March.

Baw Shire Council website at “The gateway features will be www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au.

Walhalla Goldfields

Visitor Information Centre - Yarragon Tel: 1300 133 309 123 Princes Hwy Open: Mon-Sat 6:30am-5:30pm Sunday 7:30am-6pm Website for info www.walhallarail.com This trail from Erica to Thomson is approximately 7km one-way of compacted earth. It is interesting for its history and variety. The trail follows part of the route of the narrow gauge railway that once ran from Moe to Walhalla.

It features tall forests and views es. The section of the line from of the Thomson River. Please note Thomson to Walhalla has been that this trail can become muddy restored as an operating railway and slippery after rain and is suit- and trains operate on Wednesday, able for mountain bikes and hy- weekends and holidays. brids only. The last 300 metres of To access the trail, turn down the trail near Thomson follows a Henty Street, Erica, and follow the steep and narrow deviation from road until the end where there is the original rail formation to avoid space for car parking. Follow the some badly damaged trestle bridg- signs along the trail.

April/May 2012

Ride the Gippsland Rail Trails

Gippsland Plains Rail Trail

www.gippslandplainsrailtrail.com.au

Moe-Yallourn Rail Trail

www.visitlatrobevalley.com

Latrobe Visitor Information Centre The Old Church, Southside Central, Traralgon Tel: 1800 621 409 www.visitlatrobevalley.com

The Moe-Yallourn Rail Trail is a short quick ride through some beautiful countryside with magnificent mountain views.

It’s a flat ride suitable for all great spot for a picnic lunch. Demembers of the family with a good tour at Sullivans Track to access solid surface, ensuring no nasty the lake. surprises.

Wildflowers abound along this The finale of the ride is the ma- section of the Trail, making it esjestic Yallourn power station, that pecially gratifying in late winter looms up ahead in the distance. and early spring.

From Moe, the Trail is accessed You’ll know when you’ve from Bennett Street, on a gravel reached the end, as the Yallourn driveway on the east side.

Power Station will loom before The Moe Botanical gardens are you. along the way, and a crossing at An easy trek back is via John Narracan Creek.

Field Drive.

Along the way, make sure you stop off at Lake Narracan, as it’s a

Grand Strzelecki Track

See our double page feature on the Opening of the Grand Stzelecki Rail Trail on page 16.

Cut-out the Trivia Questions and test your skills

www.gippslander.com.au - 13

Length: 42-67 km - nearly completed Surface: Coarse and Fine Gravel Terrain: mostly flat Location: Begins near Traralgon, through to Cowwarr, Heyfield, Glengarry then Stratford.

The Gippsland Plains Rail Trail is the easiest and most gentle of all the Rail Trails. Passing through generally flat dairy farm country, it offers magnificent mountain views and is accessible via many of the towns it passes through.

Unlike all other Rail Trails, this dairy farms of the region. trail is connected at either end by The centre point of the Maffra a fully functioning V/Line railway trail is the Gippsland Vehicle Colstation. So, you can bike it one lection Musem. A must stop on way, then catch the train home. your travels.

Funds have been secured to finThe trail runs alongside the ish the Trail, so it extends from existing V/Line tracks and then Traralgon through to Stratford. reverts to the original branch line.

The priority section is the You’ll then arrive in Stratford, bridge over the Latrobe River and situated on the Avon River. the 3 other bridges prior to this Stratford has full visitor facilisection. ties, and if you’re lucky, you’ll arBeginning the Trail at Traral- rive during one of their festivals. gon, you take the C105 road to Information on this trail can be Glengarry. Then the real Rail Trail accessed from www.gippslandbegins. plainsrailtrail.com.au or www.

The 19km section to Cowwarr railtrails.org.au. can be a bit rough, but is fine with a mountain bike. Around Toongabbie there is a wetland area, abundant with local birdlife and a park with visitor facilities.

About 6km from Cowwarr the path crosses a deep gorge with stone walls and steel barricades.

They were installed in the 1950’s to slow down the erosive effects of the Fells Creek.

Trekking on towards Heyfield, the track again is a bit rough, but Visitor Information manageable for most bikes. Beau- Centres tiful dairy country and the mounSale: tain views will amaze you.

Tinamba comes up next, with 8 Forster St, Sale some more wetlands areas and Tel: 1800 677 520 forest areas. The trail surface here Yarram: is excellent and you’ll encounter a Commercial Rd, Yarram few restored creek crossings.

Maffra is the next major town, Tel: 03 5182 6553 with full facilities for recharging Maffra: your batteries and taking a rest.

96 Johnson St, Maffra Maffra is a gorgeous small country town nestled amongst the Tel: 03 5144 1108

www.tourismwellington.com.au

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Ride the Gippsland Rail Trails

April/May 2012

East Gippsland Rail Trail & Mountain Bike Park

www.eastgippslandrailtrail.com

Length: 97 km Surface: Coarse Gravel, fine gravel and sealed sections.

Terrain: Mostly level with few gradients. Some steep sections when approaching bridges and creeks.

Location: Bairnsdale, Howett Park; Nicholson, from Sarsfield Rd; Bruthen, access via pedestrian bridge on east side of Hway; Nowa Nowa, west side of Kingston St; Newmeralla, at Burns Road; Orbost, from Forest Park.

The East Gippsland Rail Trail is by far the longest and most developed of the Gippsland Rail Trails.

Maintained and managed by the Friends of the East Gippsland Rail Trail Association, the trail winds it way through East Gippslands forests, creeks and grasslands.

Beginning at Bairnsdale, the first leg of the trail is sealed bitumen and follows the original rail cutting through to Nicholson.

The first few kilometres takes you through the Broadlands, being the flood plains of the Mitchell River. Vegetation includes Kangaroo grass, blackwoods, pine trees and flocks of black cockatoos.

Magnificent views of the Gippsland Lakes come into view as you climb out of the plains. As the trail approaches Bosses Swamp, the surface is slightly uneven, so care must be taken.

Wetlands are teaming with wildlife, Spoonbills, Swans, Wombats and even the odd tortoise. If you stop and listen, your ears will feast on the orchestra of frogs and birds.

Spanning the Nicholson River is a magnificently restored trestle

bridge. Constructed from reinforced concrete and steel, some of the original timber still exists.

Local folklore tells of an attempt in the 1950s to blow up the bridge, because of competition with road transport.

Sadly there are no remnants of the many train stations or sidings, as Vic Rail policy was to strip all assets when a rail line was closed.

Make your own Rail Trail Map or view hundreds of Maps & Trails at www.railtrails.org.au Nicholson provides an ideal resting spot, with milk bar, post office and excellent picnic facilities on the river bank.

Onward to Bruthen (20km) on a surface of hard packed gravel.

Some great views of Slaughterhouse Creek Valley and steep embankments.

Perhaps the most scenic of all the sections is between Bruthen and Nowa Nowa (30km). The surface is hard packed gravel, with a steady climb into Colquhoun forest.

The Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail branches off to connect you with Lakes Entrance.

About 5km out of Nowa Nowa is the impressive Stony Creek Trestle bridge. Disused but impressive all the same.

On arriving in Nowa Nowa, besides the beautiful walks, is the Nowa Nowa Mountain Bike Park.

Situated at the foot of Mount Nowa Nowa there are two tracks, depending on your abilities. Definitely worth a visit.

Now for the last and longest leg of the Trail. Nowa Nowa to Orbost, 38km over a fine, hard compacted gravel. Easy riding.

Lots of shade along the way, making it an ideal summer ride, and three major wooden trestle bridges to delight the rider.

Watch out for goanna’s, wombats and wallabies.

The next major construction is a spectacular curved timber bridge crossing Wairewa Rd. The track deviates around the bridge because of the expense of restoring it to a safe condition.

After crossing Jonson Road there is another historic old timber bridge. Great place for a stop for lunch and refreshments.

Friends of the Rail Trail have installed picnic tables and seats on your way to Burn Road, nestled in farmland and light bush.

The Rail Trail Committee have been instrumental in restoring much of the vegetation along the Trail, with plenty of specimens of local native plants now thriving.

April/May 2012

www.gippslander.com.au - 15

Spirit, Mind & Body

Fear is a part of Healthy Communities your being ...

Swami K ingsley Who loves a good old dose of fear? Everyone by the looks of it.

Fear is present in our economy, politics, communities, families and individually in each and every one of us.

What if I told you, there was a Next time you’re sitting quietly, way out. A way to eradicate fear recall an event that creates fear in from your life for good. your body, because that’s where If you’re still reading, then you you feel the fear. That’s the fear must be interested. that cripples, aches, debilitates and First up, we need to identify causes your cancers and sickness. what fear is. No good looking for Let that fear consume your enthe enemy if we don’t know what tire body. The more painful and he looks like. scary, the better.

The mental health system and However, don’t focus on the gurus will tell you to deal with situation. Only use a situation to each fear as you find it. So you’ve initiate the fear. Ignore the situagot the conscious and sub-con- tion, just focus on the feeling of scious to deal with. I say nonsense. fear that is arising.

Do not judge it, condemn it, rationalise it or explain it away. Ignore it, just feel the fear.

Then, realise within yourself that the fear is actually you. It’s all yours. That dreadful feeling belongs to you, your body, your mind, your consciousness.

It’s a part of you just as much as the warmth, beauty or love you sometimes feel. It’s all yours and no-one can take it away. Love it, look at it, experience it.

Fear is fear. Period. It doesn’t Then, if you’ve managed to matter what the situation. It may keep your thoughts at bay, you’ll be your fear of competitors, fear of losing your spouse, fear of being “found out”, fear of going broke.

They’re all mental thoughts circling around the basic feeling of fear.

How do you feel fear? What is the difference between one man looking at his bank account, and feeling peace, and another feeling fear? It’s the thoughts associated with the situation, not fear itself.

Again, fear is fear. You’ll feel it in your body when it’s there. And, notice it isn’t that bad afterall. we’ll all agree, it’s actually pain- And, if you’re fortunate, you’ll ful. That nagging gut feeling that suddenly have an insight into the hangs around in the background, situation at hand. because we’re too fearful to actuThe fear will no longer be asally look at it. sociated with that situation, and Instead, we usually have the you’ll find solutions you never thought, feel the feeling of fear, thought possible. then push it aside, or rationalise it Don’t be afraid, allow the fear away. to envelope you without thought.

Here’s a handy way to deal with It’ll set you free, and you’ll no all your fears in one go. Look at longer fear it’s arising in the futhe fear itself. ture.

Consciousness?

Ever wondered what that word meant? What’s the connection between consciousness and your everyday life?

It’s quite simple. If you think about it for a while, with a clear mind and don’t jump to conclusions.

Some spiritualists confuse the issue, by creating a lower consciousness and a higher consciousness. The latter is what you’re supposed to be striving for in your meditations.

I take the lead and propose, with your cooperation, that your consciousness, and my consciousness are the sum total of all our thoughts, emotions, feelings, ideas, insights and whatever else exists in your awareness during you life on this earth.

In other words, take away your body, and everything that is left is your consciousness. Whoever, or whatever you are, apart from your body, is your consciousness. That wasn’t too complicated, was it?

Baw Baw Shire Council is promoting to it’s citizens a healthier approach to living through it’s Healthy Communities initiative.

This is possibly the first time a local Shire has focussed on improving the living standards of it’s citizens through food and exercise.

Mayor Diane Blackwood said she was “very excited about the prospect of Baw Baw Shire Coucil taking the lead on this project.

Funding has been obtained to raise community awareness of key physical activity and nutritional messages.

Healthy lifestyle eduction and training will be provided to all residents, with the outcomes measured to ascertain their effectiveness.

Prevention is better than cure, says the Mayor. If we can help our citizens to lead healthier lives, then the whole community will benefit.

Initially the focus will be on the indigenous community, older people and the long term unemplayed.

Image courtesy of www.healthykids.nsw.gov.au

Local Healthy Community teams will be formed for each area, and supported in their roles by project workers.

To be involved in the initial workshops on April 17, contact the Healthy Community Facilitators on 03 5624 2411.

Hypnosis for Healing Obsessive behaviour has been with us humans for generations before us. How do we overcome those behaviours we’d rather be cleansed of?

Addiction to tobacco, cannabis and alcohol, is no different from addiction to food, gambling and stress.

Most obsessive behaviours can now be gently healed with a technique that is safe, non-invasive and “gentle to the stomach”, as the saying goes.

Jacinta and Mandy from “Look into Me Eyez” are both certified Practitioners of Hypnotherapy.

Both have studied the Krasner Hypnotherapy technique, a highly effective method perfected by Dr A.M. Krasner over 50 years ago.

Hypnotherapy is really a natural state of your mind, with you in control throughout the entire procedure.

Mandy said, “It’s much the same as relaxing in your favourite chair. That quiet, mellow, weightlessness feeling you have when you’re totally calm.”

When questioned as to how it can assist someone to stop smok-

ing, or loose weight, Mandy replied that the first and foremost requirement is the desire in the client to change.

“The client must want to stop their sub-conscious or obsessive behaviour for hypnotherapy to be really effective.”

“Hypnosis cannot make you quit smoking, but it can make the process a very simple one.”

Mandy and Jacinta also offer “body wraps” for a natural way to

loose weight.

The body slimming applicator is infused with an all-natural botanical formula that is absorbed through the skin and breaks down fat cells, along with extracting toxins from your body.

The perfect way to detoxify, tighten and tone your skin.

With such a huge range, you can check them out in Morwell or Sale, please refer to their advertisement below.

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Strzelecki Track

April/May 2012

April/May 2012

Strzelecki Track

www.gippslander.com.au - 17

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Gippsland Travel & Fishing News

April/May 2012

The Prophets of Doom and Gloom Professor Ray Hilborn and Dr Bob Kearney have released a paper titled “Australian Seafood consumers misled by prophets of doom and gloom”.

Professor Hilborn is the author of four books, 250 scientific papers and Professor of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences at the University of Washington.

With predictions that the world commercial fish stocks will be collapsed by 2048, Professor Hilborn has fought back with facts.

“There has been not one sin-

gle case of a marine fish becoming extinct in Australian waters.

Australians should question where these overfishing facts are coming from,” says Professor Hillborn.

“Australia has a great record for improving the management of it’s fisheries.”

The only threats to Australian fisheries are ocean acidification and foreign species, not overfishing.

Our past has not always been so rosy. Up to the end of the 1990s there was serious concern that the

overfished stocks were increasing.

As recently as 2004, 40% of Australia’s fish stocks were fished too hard resulting in overfishing.

This led to an efficient fisheries management strategy, which by 2006 had revived 85% of the overfished species. A very successful endeavour, and proof that Australia’s fishery management is sustainable and effective.

Whilst Australia has an impressive record for controlling fisheries, it has limited fishery production.

We import more than 70% of our seafood and there are suggestions that by 2020 we will require an estimated 610,000 tonnes of seafood imports.

Lakes Entrance Fishing Co-op General Manager, Dale Sumner, says “Lakes Entrance is one of the largest fishing ports in Australia, with approximately 10,000 tonne

of sustainably harvested seafood entering port each year.”

“Consumers can be confident that when they buy Australian seafood, they are buying a sustainable product.”

So when you’re making your next purchase, enquire of the origin of your seafood, so you can make an informed choice.

Madagascar - not the movie

Question: What’s the difference between a lemur and a fossa?

Answer: A lemur doesn’t eat your undies.

Not the sort of question that you think to ask when going to Madagascar, but certainly the sort of thing that you laugh a lot about later.

Madagascar is not well known as a travel destination but is certainly worth going to. Its amazing wildlife, fabulous scenery and gentle culture are beautifully blended with a touch of magic.

It is the world’s 4th largest island and has been isolated for 65 million years, giving rise to a splendid array of natural features. It is famous for lemurs – the only place on earth where they are naturally found.

These gentle mammals look a bit like tree - climbing dogs with a long tail for balance, a long snout and fingers tipped with velvet. They get around in family groups and are led by the females who leap many metres in their arboreal acrobatics.

Madagascar is also famous for its bottle trees (or baobabs), the so called up-side-down trees that look as if they have been uprooted and stuck in trunk first.

There are 6 species of these spectacular trees and one of the highlights of a trip to Madagascar is to photograph them at sunset - a photographer’s dream come true.

The people of Madagascar are also unusual, be-

Recreational fishing forums

ing derived from African, Indian, Arabian, Asian and French cultures. And the cuisine and accommodation reflects the varied backgrounds. There are 18 different language groups, so when exploring Madagascar you certainly need a guide.

For those who love to delve into the culture and the wildlife of a country, there is a fantastic tour to Madagascar in September 2012 led by local ABC radio presenters Michèle Adler and Rod McMIllan (see advertisement on this page).

PS. Just in case you are wondering, the fossa is Madagascar’s only carnivore.

Anglers can have their say about growing fishing opportunities, and learn more about what Fisheries Victoria is doing to improve angling through forums being held in Gippsland.

Fishers from multicultural communities are encouraged to attend to expand their local knowledge.

Two sessions will be held in Gippsland. First will be in Bairnsdale, on May 15, 7pm at the DPI Offices in Main Street, Bairnsdale.

Darnum will host their Forum on May 23, 2012 at the Darnum Football and Netball Club in Shady Creek Road. The Darnum Forum will particularly cater for female fishers.

More information can be obtained from the DPI by phoning 136 186 or visit their website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing.

April/May 2012

Travelling Gippsland

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April/May 2012

Home & Garden

Who to subsidise? Big Mining or home solar kits The ongoing debate about how our taxes are used - for the benefit of us or business?

The introduction of the Victorian transitional feed in tariff on January 1, 2012, was a big disappoint for those who missed the original Premium feed in tariff.

The original Premium feed in tariff could have gained you up to .66c for every kilowatt you fed back into the grid.

As of January 1, 2012, that tariff was reduced to a minimum of .25c per kilowatt.

Now, the Baillieu Government is reconsidering their options by conducting a new review by the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission.

Victorians will have to act quickly to gain the full benefits of installing solar electricity while the government incentives are still available.

We’ve all learned from past experiences, that when a government becomes nervous about handing out money, they certainly don’t increase those handouts, but instead, reductions are usually in order.

With electricity prices expected to rise by over 10% in the coming quarters, and the imminent introduction of the much maligned Carbon Tax, solar power may be the only way households can buffer themselves against skyrocketing energy prices.

On a more positive note, the Federal Opposition has introduced a bill into Parliament, requesting

Killer on the loose

the government to re-introduce the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme.

This scheme assisted households in replacing their hot water systems with a renewable alternative. The scheme is due to be finalised by June 30, 2012.

“$4 billion each year to large mining companies” In contrast, solar rebates pale into insignificance when compared with government subsidies to the fossil fuel and mining industry.

Like any fledgling industry, government cash and rebates are designed to stimulate the uptake of the new technology, until it’s able to stand on it’s own two feet.

Subsidies to the mining sector by the Federal Government totalled approximately $4 billion

last year, according to a report produced, entitled “Pouring fuel on the fire.”

It makes one wonder who has the most powerful lobbyists in Canberra, the mining industry or the fledgling solar industry.

Total pre-tax profits for the year 2009-10 in the mining sector totalled over $51 billion. They are exempt from the fringe benefits tax on goods and services provided by the mining companies, amounting to an additional $490 million per year.

This doesn’t include the State Government subsidies. A report released earlier this year estimated the Queensland Government is spending $1.4 billion per year in subsidies to the mining sector.

This is all happening on the back of a resources boom, where mining companies are making record profits.

Nicole K idd - Student at Forestech TAFE It’s yellow, spreads like wildfire, it’s spores can devastate both native and introduced plants and trees, and in only 12 months the innocent-sounding myrtle rust has become “probably the biggest threat to Australia’s ecosystem”.

Myrtle rust (Uredo rangelii) is a serious fungal disease that affects plants in the Myrtaceae family, such as lilly pilly, tea tree, bottle brush and also including eucalyptus.

Myrtle rust was first discovered in Australia on the central coast of New South Wales in April 2010, but the disease may have been present two years prior to detection. It has now made its way down to Victoria and is found on 25 different sites, mainly at production nurseries and wholesale outlets in and around metropolitan Melbourne.

The fungal disease cannot be eradicated and will continue to spread around Victorian nurseries because it produces thousands of spores easily spread by wind, human activity, vehicles, animals and bees.

Juvenile plants are the most vulnerable, as once the fungal is spread around the plant, it becomes stunted or it simply dies.

Although Myrtle rust cannot be stopped, we can limit its spread, manage its impact and seek long-term solutions.

April/May 2012

Home & Garden

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Bright - 50th Autumn Festival

April/May 2012

Bright Autumn Festival Gala weekend on May 5

Gala Day in Bright is a day of festivities and celebration, in the middle of their Autumn Festival throughout April/May. On Saturday, May 5 the Markets and Street entertainment begin.

Starting at 9am in Main Street there will be loads of market stalls, live bands, food, entertainment and fun. Kids activities begin after 9am.

In Howitt Park, the Bright Vehicle Preservation Society and the Early Ford V8 Club will display a selection of classic, vintage and veteran vehicles throughout the

day. There will be other activities and a sausage sizzle.

The Grand Parade begins at 1:45pm, the highlight of the festival, with “150 Bright Years” as the theme.

Floats from local businesses, community groups and social groups will cruise the street, along with brass and pipe bands and street entertainment.

The RAAF Roulettes will be performing an aerobatic display, showcasing their flying skills in the Pilatus PC-9/A aircraft.

On Saturday night, after the day of festivities, the Bright Singers

Buckland Riot

Bright Autumn Festival brochure available for download from www.brightautumnfestival.org.au

Little is known about the Buckland Riot of 1857 in this sleepy little mountain village, formerly known as Morse’s Creek.

During the Victorian Gold Rush there was a rush to the nearby Buckland River by the Anglo-Saxon miners.

After they’d diminished the deposits considerably, the Chinese miners arrived in the area to sift the abandoned claims.

Tensions then grew over the success of the Chinese miners, and a violent riot ensured between the two groups.

Eventually the riot was quelled by the Beechworth Police, lead by Robert O’Hare Burke, after some 2000 Chinese miners scattered.

After renaming the town to Bright, in honour of the British orator and politician John Bright, in 1866 the town flourished as a tourist destination. It’s main attraction was the magnificent display of Autumn foliage produced by the many European trees planted by the original inhabitants.

For experienced gold seekers, there is still gold to be found in and around the hills or rivers of Bright.

Gold panning tours are arranged during the Autumn Festival, and a trip down the Buckland River valley is a must to observe the remaining relics and remnants from the days of the Gold Rush.

will perform at the Bright Community Centre, starting at 8pm with music from yesteryear.

And the Festival continues on Sunday, May 6, with many of the Open Gardens accessible, some winery tours and a Bush Market in Freeburgh. 9km from Bright on the Great Alpine Road, it opens at 9am till 1pm with a variety of stalls, morning tea and BBQ. Funds raised from this market go towards the building of a new hall.

The SES will hold demonstrations in Howitt Park, showing their expertise and skills.

Make it Bake it Grow it Every 3rd Saturday of the month sees Bright’s Make it, Bake it, Grow it market happening beside the Ovens River.

From 9am till 1pm it is believed to be a shoppers paradise.

Many original, handmade, recycled or organic products are produced and displayed by the locals of Bright.

Being situated in the heart of the Great Alpine Valleys, makes Bright some what of a food bowl.

Locally made cheeses, trout and meats abound, as well as fresh nuts, fruits, vegetables and baked breads.

Whilst roaming the many and varied market stalls you will be entertained by many local performers, as well as activities for the kids.

The local Rotary Club also organises markets, one of which is during the Autumn Festival.

For information on the markets and festivals, visit their website www.brightvictoria.com.au.

50th Autumn Art Exhibit Coinciding with the 50th Bright Autumn Festival this year, is the 50th Anniversay Autumn Art Exhibition.

Held in the Bright Art Gallery during May, this exhibition promises to be the best yet.

The Bright Art Gallery has been displaying local art and hosting exhibitions since 1982, with a Committee of Management overseeing all facets of the gallery.

As well as regular exhibitions, the Gallery has built up a wonderful collection of artwork, by the acquisition of the section winners in the annual competitions.

There are many great pieces of work from Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra artists, as well as paintings from locals.

This year, a bonus Special Prize of $3000 has been allocated to the best local Alpine Shire scene.

April/May 2012

LATROBE REH Cork Club Craft Market 2nd Saturday of the month (Sept to May) Kay Street Gardens, Traralgon Contact 0487 342 675

Markets & What’s On

1st Sun of month 9am-3pm Contact 5153 1916 Metung Farmers Market Village Green, Metung 2nd Sat of month 8:30am-1pm Contact 0458 431 844

Latrobe Country Market Every Sunday 8:30am - 1:30 pm Latrobe Road, Morwell Contact 0407 532 957

Paynesville Lions Club Market Gilsenan Reserve, P’ville 2nd Sun of month 8am-1pm Contact 0400 327 526

Traralgon Farmers Market 4th Sat of the month 8am-1pm Kay Street Gardens Contact 5174 2279

Bairnsdale Uniting Church Car & Boot Market Great Alpine Road, Lucknow 3rd Sat of month 8:30-11:00am

Old Gippstown Market - Moe 3rd Sat of the month 9am-2pm Old Gippstown Heritage Park Contact 5127 3082

BAW BAW

Bruthen Village Market Bruthen Mechanics Hall Main Street, Bruthen 4th Sat of month 9am-1pm Contact 0428 501 634 or 03 5156 4148

Drouin Craft & Produce Civic Park, Drouin 3rd Sat of month 8am-12:30pm Contact 0428 252 440

Lucknow Market Howitt Park, Lucknow 4th Sun of month 8:30-1pm Contact 5152 4662

Rokeby Community Market Main Road, Rokeby 2nd Sat of month 8am-1pm September to May Contact 56 26 8523

Makers Market Emporium of Handmade Wares from Maker to you.

Boucher Hall, Bairnsdale Saturday, June 2 - 9-2pm Contact 0412 870 605 or 5152 5484

Longwarry Fire Brigade Market Bennett St, Longwarry 1st Sunday of Month 8am-1pm March to December Contact 0419 158 946 Yarragon Community Craft & Produce Market 4th Sat of the month 9am-2pm Yarragon Public Hall Campbell St, Yarragon Contact 5634 2209

EAST GIPPSLAND Farmers Market Secondary College Oval, McKean St, Bairnsdale 1st Sat of month 8am-12pm Contact 5156 9342 Surf Club Market Foreshore Rotunda, near the Footbridge Lakes Entrance

WELLINGTON Heyfield Market John Greaves Memorial Park, Temple St, Heyfield 1st Sat of month from 8am Contact 5148 0505 Wellington Farmers Market 3rd Sat of month 8am-1pm Cobb & Co. Stables Raymond Street, Sale Maffra Variety & Farmers Market 1st Sun of month 9am-1pm Contact 0408 057 772 Cobb & Co Stables Markets 1st Sat - Variety Market 8am-1pm 2nd Sun - Craft Market 9am-1pm 3rd Sat - Farmers Market 8am-1pm 4th Sun - Art & Wine Market 12:30-4:30 Contact Mark 0408 057 772 www.cobbandcomarket.com.au

Stratford Variety & Farmers Market Apex Park, Princes Highway Stratford 4th Sun of month 9am-1pm Contact 0408 057 772 Rosedale Community Market Prince St Park, Rosedale 2nd Sun of month 7am-1:30pm Contact 5199 2818 Sale Charity Market Thompson River Canal Reserve Sale, Gippsland 3rd Sun of month 7am-1pm Contact 5144 1258 Yarram Variety Market Guide/Scout Hall Cnr Church Rd & Sth Gipp Hwy 1st Sun of month 8am-1pm Additional markets in Yarram: Port Albert Regatta - April 8 Rutters Park.

Yarram Tarra Festival - April 9 Monster Market Showgrounds, Buckley St Port Albert Hall, Victoria St, 5th Sun in month Contact 5183 2649

SOUTH GIPPSLAND Prom Farmers Market Foster Showgrounds, Foster 3rd Sat of month 8am-12pm Contact 5682 2654 or 0427 809 509 Promontory Home Produce & Craft Market Sundays - April 8, 8am-2pm Foster Showgrounds, Foster Contact 5682 2654 Prom Country Farmers Market Main St, Foster 3rd Sat of month 8am-12pm Contact 680 8509 Tarwin Lower Market Tarwin Lower Memorial Hall Contact 5663 7345 or 5663 7505 Venus Bay Farmers Market Venus Bay Village Jupiter Bvd, Venus Bay Every Sunday in January Contact 5664 0096

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Mirboo Nth Market Baromi Park, Mirboo Nth Last Sat of month, 9am-2pm Contact 5668 2465 Sth Gippsland Farmers Market Koonwarra Memorial Park Koonwarra 1st Sat of month 8:30am start Contact 0408 619 182 Kongwak Market Korumburra-Wonthaggi Rd, Kongwak Sundays 10-2:30pm Contact 0417 142 478 Coal Creek Farmers Market Coal Creek Community Park Korumburra 2nd Sat of month 8am-1pm Toora Market Former Bonlac Store, Jetty Road, Toora 2nd Sat of month 8:30am start Contact 5686 2690 Loch Public Hall - Winter Market Loch Public Hall, Smith Street, Loch 2nd Sun of month 9am-1pm May to September only Contact 5659 4305 Loch Village Market Railway Siding, Loch 2nd Sun of month 8:30am start Contact 5659 0212 Inverloch Farmers Market The Glade, Inverloch 3rd Sunday of month 8am-1pm Contact 5664 0096

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Gippsland Market News

April/May 2012

Gippsland’s flourishing market economy Get your precious goods valued

When it comes to getting fresh produce to stock your larder, Gippsland has an abundance of farmers and fresh food markets.

A stroll through one of the many Saturday and Sunday markets will expose you to freshly produced honey, fresh fruit and vegetables and an array of home made delights.

If the supermarkets were to cease trading tomorrow, we’d all probably be healthier, fitter and suffer less visits to the doctor.

Instead of the weekly supermarket trip, you can imagine instead, a weekly regime of visiting one of the many local Farmers Markets for your kitchen stocks.

Shopping under fluorescent lights could be replaced by fresh air, sunshine, exercise and the social interaction that naturally happens at your local market.

Cash would be the order of the day, which brings along with it the natural ability and inclination to barter, just like the old days. Pull out some loose change and buy a bunch of parsley or a bag of apples. It’s just not the same handing over a credit card for a jar of home-made jam.

Anywhere you live in Gippsland, you probably have access to two or three different small town local markets.

These are usually run on alternate weekends. A farmers market on the first Saturday of the month here, then another one over the hill and around the corner on the third Sunday of the month.

In East Gippsland, for example, on one weekend is the Metung Farmers Market, then the Bairnsdale Farmers Market, then another weekend there’s one at Bruthen.

All have fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs and home made goodies.

Buying in bulk, on a weekly or fortnightly basis, not only saves you money, but also allows you to go shopping less, thus, saving energy and resources.

Packaging from supermarket food is another issue. Shopping at your local market eliminates many toxic plastic containers and bags, so detrimental to our waterways and landfills.

Market stall holders also pay fees to community groups to display their goods at the markets.

Clubs such as the Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs and Surf Lifesaving Clubs benefit greatly from your patronage at their events.

The stall holders themselves, are also locals, producing or growing their own goods to support themselves and their families.

Big news for those who have mysterious valuables lying around their home, perhaps from an inheritance or a lucky find at a local variety market.

Cobb & Co Stables Market as the Cobb & Co Stables in Rayhas confirmed the first ever Art mond Street, Sale.

N Antiques Roadshow, to be held There are still stalls available on Sunday afternoon on May 27, for sellers of antiques and col12:30 - 4:30 pm. lectables, so if you’re interested, Mr Bruce Arnup of ABC Radio contact Mark on 0408 057 772. fame, will provide expert advice The old Cobb & Co. Stables and free appraisals from 2:00 - has been transformed from the old 4:00 pm on the day.

Cobb & Co. Coach Stables to 26 You’re welcome to bring your mini shops all under one roof. valuables and collectables for a Open 7 days a week, it gives free look over by Bruce, as well Sale residents and visitors a place as peruse the Art and Antiques/ to browse and shop in a market Collectables stalls inside the beau- like atmosphere. Everything from tiful, old world building, known food to hypnosis is available.