LOST Autumn 2024

ABOUT LOST MAGAZINE

Lost Magazine is an independent monthly magazine circulating throughout Daylesford, Hepburn Springs, Kyneton, Trentham, Glenlyon, Castlemaine, Woodend, Creswick, Clunes and surrounds. We also distribute to select Melbourne venues and to an ever-growing subscriber base.

LOST TEAM

PUBLISHERS

LOST MAGAZINE

3 Howe Street, Daylesford VIC 3460

found@lostmagazine.com.au

03 5348 2008

DISTRIBUTION

found@lostmagazine.com.au

ADVERTISING

found@lostmagazine.com.au

03 5348 2008 | 0436 344 935

SOCIAL MEDIA

@lostmagazine

COVER IMAGE

Printmaker Clare Ainsworth by photographer Chris Turner. Read the full story on page 50.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

All content in this publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without express permission of the publisher. All care is taken to ensure accuracy in editorial and advertising however the publishers and any contributors accept no responsibility for errors or omissions. All material herein constitutes information and not advice.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Turner

FEATURE WRITER

Michael Harden

FEATURE WRITER

Larissa Dubecki

EDITOR

Jessica Walsh

FEATURE WRITER

Mahmood Fazal

Tony De Marco & Theresa Albioli

on Board 180 x 90 cm

, 2023 Acrylic and

Wild Parterre

CASCADE ART GALLERY AUTUMN SEASON

THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY – SUNDAY 24 MARCH 2024

THURSDAY 28 MARCH – SUNDAY 21 APRIL 2024

THURSDAY 25 APRIL – SUNDAY 26 MAY 2024

Cascade Art Gallery, The Church, 1A Fountain Street, Maldon Vic 3463

Open Thursday – Sunday 10am - 5pm (closed: July, August)

Kareen Anchen - Gallery Director: 0408 844 152 | cascadeart.com.au | e: info@cascadeart.com.au

LIZ SULLIVAN Wild Parterre - New Paintings

(detail)

Oil

Primary No3. (detail), 2015 Acrylic on Linen 128.5 x 148 cm

CRAIG GOUGH 2006 - 2023 Selected Works

IMAGINATION Dean Bowen, Sam Varian, Jeff Gardner, Jan Palethorpe

(L-R): JAN PALETHORPE, Wave, 2023 (detail) Colour Lithograph 290 x 400 cm

JEFF GARDNER, Omnibus, 2022 (detail) Indian Ink and Oil on Cotton Duck 160 x 300 cm

SAM VARIAN, Gotto - Best of all Possible Worlds, 2024 Ceramic 57 x 43 x 28 cm

DEAN BOWEN, The Contented Parrot (Green), 2021 (detail) Oil on Linen 122 x 153 cm

Lost News

HWRAP UP OF NEWS AND HAPPENINGS IN OUR REGION

BY EDITOR, JESSICA WALSH

ello Autumn, you gorgeous thing! With the turn of the leaves pending, we enter the most beautiful time of year. As the harvest abounds and creativity flourishes, our region is painted with delight. What an incredible place we live in, where we are held by the seasons, as if they are our religion, offering something to look forward to at the turn of each leaf.

In this edition, Mahmood journeys through the realms of transformation and empowerment with Dr Matt and Tanja, the visionary couple behind The Alchemic Way. Their dedication to personal development and wellness shines through as they share their insights and experiences.

Next, we explore craftsmanship with Glen Rundell, a master whose workshop in Kyneton serves as a sanctuary for tradition and authenticity.

Moving on, we savor the culinary delights of The Virgin Kitchen, nestled within the historic Hotel Bellinzona. Larissa Dubecki takes us on a gastronomic journey, unveiling the versatile offerings that seamlessly transition from

a daytime café to a night-time restaurant, all while celebrating the richness of local produce and flavours.

We meet with Caroline Parker, the creative force behind The Cottage Herbalist, spreading a message of wellness and mindfulness, one cup at a time.

We dive into horticulture with Clair from The Lauriston Blend, whose deep connection with the earth has blossomed into a lifestyle of self-sufficiency.

Last stop is right next door to us - Wombat Hill Print Studio, with Loique Allain and Clare Ainsworth. Their collaborative venture serves as a haven for creativity.

As we immerse ourselves in these stories of passion, creativity, and innovation, may we find inspiration in the rich tapestry of culture that thrives in our region.

Happy Autumn!

Jessica Walsh, Editor

Potent with entrepreneurial innovation

THE

STORY

BY MAHMOOD FAZAL

PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER

TANJA LEE & DR MATT

“That's what alchemists do,” writes Paulo Coelho, “They show that, when we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too.”

Matt and Tanja have devoted their lives to the alchemical practice of enrichment in every sense of the word.

Together they’re the power couple behind The Alchemic Way.

Tanja explains, “We are a personal development and wellness business devoted to empowering real estate and property professionals worldwide to fulfil their potential in the least amount of time whilst transforming the client experience from transactional to relational.”

Echoing Coehlo’s sentiment, Tanja highlights the biggest lessons she has taken away from her work; “To never underestimate your ability to make a difference. When you are fuelled by a desire to serve and make a

difference and you pour your heart and soul into what you do, the strategies and plans begin to organically appear and you attract people who believe in what you believe.”

Matt and Tanja recently migrated from the Mornington Peninsula to Porcupine Ridge, it was a dream they had been harbouring for years.

“We shared our intuitive pull to Hepburn and began to explore the possibility together.”

They have recently launched The Heart of Hepburn project and the Alchemic Embodiment six-day transformational retreat.

“We fully appreciate the natural healing properties of the land and the history it holds. With this in mind, we have designed a six-day ALCHEMIC EMBODIMENT experience that we will be hosting in the heart of Hepburn at least twice a year.”

“It is our intention to take our national and international clients through a personal and professional transformational program whilst showcasing the best businesses, artisans, and alchemistic experiences this area has to offer.”

They will be hosting guests at Hotel Bellinzona where they will complete daily transformational workshops and wellbeing practices. Each day is themed and will be amplified with bespoke experiences throughout Daylesford and surrounds. These include a customised day at Elevated Springs with Mark Kluwer and his wife Julie with breathwork in the tipi, a sweat lodge, ice-baths, creative art exploration and hot tub soaking.

And there’s more, Tanja adds, “A private introduction to Botanical Alchemy with Jessie Leith and the team at Enki Apothecary, learning about artisan tonics, skincare and aromatics using local flora. A private behind-closed-doors mystical experience at the crystal-filled Empress and Wolf. Some foraging time through The Amazing Mill Markets and all the delightful

local bespoke boutiques and retailers on Vincent Street.”

The week will also be peppered with dining experiences at the iconic cafes, restaurants and wineries the region is famous for such as Sault, Cliffy’s and Passing Clouds.

“There is a certain magic in the soil and air here. It is palpable,” adds Tanja. “It is why tens of thousands of people visit every year. It has an old-world charm yet is potent with entrepreneurial innovation and artistic expression. It is an unapologetic welcome home for all things queer and quirky and ensures anyone with an open heart and curious soul, with an appetite for finer things in life will feel right at home.”

The Alchemic Way

Tanja Lee & Dr Matt

thealchemicway.com

tanja@thealchemicway.com

matt@thealchemicway.com

To keep in the loop about the ALCHEMIC EMBODIMENT retreat, follow along on @the.alchemic.way

AWARD WINNING FLAVOURS FROM BLINGY TO TRADITIONAL

Reverance Tradition for

BY MAHMOOD FAZAL

GLEN RUNDELL

STORY

PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER

In the heart of Kyneton, Victoria, nestled away from the hustle and bustle, lies Glen's workshop—a bastion of tradition and authenticity. Upon crossing the threshold, visitors are transported into a realm where craftsmanship reigns supreme, where the echoes of centuries-old techniques resound through every inch of he space.

Here, amidst the scent of aged wood and the comforting sight of time-worn tools, Glen orchestrates his symphony of craftsmanship. Each tool, weathered with the patina of decades past, bears witness to the dedication and artistry that permeates every corner of the workshop. Draw knives, some tracing their lineage back to the 1830s, stand as silent sentinels of a bygone era, while coils of oak and elm embrace the workshop floor, awaiting their transformation into timeless pieces of furniture.

But it's not just the tools that tell the tale of Glen's mastery. It's the painstaking attention to detail, the reverence for tradition, that sets his work apart. From chairs to perches, each piece undergoes a meticulous process, layer upon layer, until it achieves the desired

finish—a testament to Glen's unwavering commitment to ‘the art of the handmade’.

Glen's journey towards becoming a maestro of his craft began over three decades ago, as a humble plumber’s apprentice. Yet, it was through a serendipitous pilgrimage to the United States that his true calling revealed itself. Under the tutelage of two esteemed chairmakers—one steeped in tradition, the other pushing the boundaries of contemporary design—Glen honed his skills in the art of American Windsor Chairmaking, a pursuit that would come to define his life's work.

He recalls a moment, “I went to study with master craftsman Curtis Buchanan.” Curtis had so much faith in the power of his work, he once sent his work to a customer who refused to pay until he received the chair. Enchanted by its arrival, the customer paid promptly. Glen says, “I asked him if I could buy some of his blueprints.” Curtis refused to accept any payment, he believed in keeping the artisanal legacy of his trade alive through the free flow of ideas, open source, so he allowed Glen to take whatever he needed.

Glen’s Windsor chairs are best described employing the words of Clarence P. Hornung, they’re chairs of “a delicate balance and harmony".

Since then, Glen has become synonymous with the art of chairmaking, his creations sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs alike, both in his native Australia and beyond. From settees to barstools, each piece bears the hallmarks of Glen's singular vision—a vision rooted in the belief that true craftsmanship transcends mere utility, becoming instead a timeless heirloom to be cherished for generations.

As Glen continues to ply his trade, each commission becomes more than just a piece of furniture; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship. With each bespoke creation, he reaffirms his commitment to crafting not just chairs, but pieces of art— individual, unique, and destined to stand the test of time in a world that often values quantity over quality. In Glen's workshop, the true essence of handmade beauty thrives, a beacon of tradition in a massproduced world.

Glen extended this passion by initiating the Lost Trades Fair in 2013, which has since been running as an annual event in Bendigo, that showcases artisans from around the world. In the past, metalsmith Seth Gould travelled from the USA to exhibit his fine tool making skills, and traditional cooper George Smithwick hand-carved wooden buckets, a tradition that began in his family sometime in the 18th century. This year, the 180 participants must demonstrate an element of their trade to immerse the punters in the theatre of these age-old examples of human ingenuity.

Rundell and Rundell Chair Maker

rundellandrundell.com.au

@glenrundellchairmaker

The Fair celebrates skills, craftsmanship, making things by hand, heritage crafts and traditional trades. Great entertainment, demonstration program and live music on stage. Watch demonstrations by blacksmiths, woodworkers, metalworkers, instrument makers, potters, tailors, stonemasons, leatherworkers, sinners weavers, decorative artists, see vintage machinery and take part in activities.

9 - 10 MARCH 2024

9.30am - 4.30pm. Bendigo Racecourse

From morning coffee and croissants to dinner and a nightcap, this charming hangout has all bases covered.

Definitionally speaking, a hotel restaurant must be many things to many people. A breakfast spot for families, a

place to do business or catch up with friends at lunch, the scene for a romantic rendezvous at dinner.

Hepburn Springs' landmark Hotel Bellinzona has all those hallmarks – and many more besides – sewn up with the versatility of The Virgin Kitchen.

The

Blessed be Virgin Kitchen

THE VIRGIN KITCHEN

STORY BY LARISSA DUBEKI PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER

The heart of the heritage hotel, which was established in 1903 and relaunched in 2021 after a multi-million-dollar makeover, morphs easily from daytime café to a nighttime restaurant.

“At a venue like this it’s important to be a breakfast, lunch and dinner proposition –and to do them all equally well,” says

Tony Barradale, Chief Executive of The Houses Hotel Group, owner of Hotel Bellinzona and The Virgin Kitchen. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re after a drink or a snack, brunch or a three-course dinner – and of course we’re happy to serve eggs at 3pm for anyone rolling out of bed late.”

The Virgin Kitchen is an elegant backdrop for an egg and bacon roll, albeit one elevated with excellent local produce including Istra bacon and smoked tomato and onion chutney. Decked out to impress – the vibe is French country house, meets modern mansion - its insouciant mix of antiques and contemporary fittings hits the eclectic-donewell note. Upholstered in black leather, the central banquette is the spine of a room picking up the energy of the semi-open kitchen.

If it’s coffee you’re after, The Virgin Kitchen has a Central Victorian monopoly on beans from artisan roaster Proud Mary. Keen for something stronger? The wine list celebrates local heroes including Passing Clouds and Sutton Grange, both among 20 available by the glass, while the 300-strong reserve list spreads its wings across the globe.

Come evenings, the eclectic menu makes a focus of house-made pasta in all its shapeshifting forms: classic ricotta gnocchi in Napoli sauce jazzed up with confit heirloom tomatoes, or pappardelle with a local mushroom ragu. Mains stick to a loosely Italian theme with chicken Milanese, pork belly in a honey and date jus, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with pea puree and a refreshing mix of cherry tomatoes, fennel and mint. Just add fries and a salad and call it a feast.

The Virgin Kitchen’s outdoor dining setting is a particular drawcard on these mild autumn nights. Seating up to 100 people against a backdrop of manicured gardens and mature deciduous trees, it’s a rarity for this part of the world, and the perfect place for aperitivo hour (the Bellinzona spritz, made with violet liqueur, prosecco and soda will go nicely, thanks very much).

“It’s a really relaxed vibe where people can relax and eat and drink, European-style,” says Tony. “You can also bring your dog, which is very popular with locals.”

Locals are also well cared for on Wednesdays locals’ night, which offers two courses and a glass of wine or beer for $39.

“People are careful about where they spend their money, especially at the moment, and we’re keen to offer an amazing evening that they can treat themselves to every week.”

THE VIRGIN KITCHEN OPEN 7 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

thevirginkitchen.com.au

03 5348 2271

77 Main Road

Hepburn Springs, Victoria, 3461

@thevirginkitchen

Hana House

Escape to the serene countryside with a stay at Hana House, a charming holiday cottage nestled between the picturesque towns of Hepburn Springs and Daylesford. This quaint weatherboard miners cottage offers a cozy retreat for up to four guests, with two inviting bedrooms and a shared modern bathroom. One of the highlights of Hana House is the expansive back deck, providing a tranquil setting amidst the lush greenery and towering trees.

4 2 1

(03) 5348 2008

thehousesdaylesford.com

stay@thehousesdaylesford.com

FEATURE PROPERTY

The Houses

Daylesford have a portfolio of beautiful accommodation rental properties interspersed throughout Daylesford & surrounds. Our 100+ properties provide the perfect setting for couples, families, groups, corporates, photo shoots and location hire.

Cuppa

Goodness

CAROLINE PARKER

STORY BY MICHAEL HARDEN PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER

If you were after an example of someone making a career from their passion, Caroline Parker is an excellent candidate. Owner of The Cottage Herbalist, a business based in the town of Barry’s Reef, that specialises in hand blended and herbal tea and holds workshops in herbal medicine and foraging, Caroline has seamlessly combined things she’s trained in – Western herbal medicine and visual arts –with the passions she’s been drawn to since childhood.

“Tea was my in,” she says. “I have a cottish dad who was an avid tea drinker so I’ve been making tea since I was old enough to be trusted with a kettle. Then I have a hippy aunty who always liked jasmine and peppermint tea which intrigued me, especially when I worked out that I could grow plants – something I’ve always loved to

do – that I could make tea with. I could grow it and then drink it. I was sold.”

Caroline is from a family of health professionals – her mum and sister are nurses and there are physiotherapists in the mix too – but it wasn’t until she was introduced to the world of herbalists and naturopaths while working in an organic café that she realised her love of tea and gardening offered her a chance to work in the wellness space too.

“After I studied herbal medicine,I began to see my own clients and always proscribed teas that I blended myself,” she says.“It was an accessible and easy way for people to learn about herbs and whodoesn’t love a good cup of tea? I just added the bonus of introducing a wellness element, whether that’s physical, mental or emotional.”

There’s an aesthetic side of the equation too. Caroline’s training in the visual arts have given her an eye for the beautiful so her tea blends include floral elements like calendula or cornflowers that she grows and dehydrates to make the tea look visually appealing. But it’s about how it tastes too, so she includes ingredients that mask some of the more funky, earthy, grassy flavours that medicinal herbs often have on their own. Good looking, good tasting, good for you.

The Cottage Herbalist started when Caroline noticed that some of her clients were asking her for blends they could give to their friends. Some of these blends – an immune system booster called Elderberry Blush that includes elderberry, hibiscus, rosehips, cinnamon and echinacea and a hay fever blend of sencha green tea, nettles, eyebright and calendula called Bless You – are now a permanent part of her range.

Caroline also includes ingredients that she forages from wild plants that grow in and around the Wombat Forest region where she lives. Her foraging workshops introduce people to how they can find and use ingredients themselves like yarrow, hawthorn berries, dandelions and elderberries.

She also has a book coming out this year called The Medicinal Gardener, which will be published by Thames & Hudson in August.

“It’s a snapshot of 40 herbs, what they can do and how you can grow, nurture and harvest them to use in herbal remedies, tea

The Cottage

and cooking,” says Caroline. “Foremost is the wellness effect, even if that’s just about slowing down to brew the tea then taking a moment to drink it and collect yourself. It’s all part of my philosophy: not always telling people what not to do, but rather adding something good to their life in a simple and tasty way. It’s not all woo-woo; it can just be about enjoying a cup of tea.”

The Cottage Herbalist

thecottageherbalist.com.au

@thecottageherbalist Award Winning

Herbal Medicine Workshops

Foraging Walks

Book Release August ‘24

www.thecottageherbalist.com.au

meets Creativity Cultivation

CLAIR DERWORT THE LAURISTON BLEND

STORY BY MAHMOOD FAZAL

PHOTOS BY CHRIS TURNER

Clair from The Lauriston Blend has always harboured a profound connection with the earth and its cycles, a bond that has flourished alongside her, from her childhood days to the establishment of her property in the Macedon Ranges with aspirations of self-sufficiency. Her journey through the world of horticulture traces a transformative path from simple gardening to a lifestyle entrenched in the rhythms of nature.

Her initial foray into gardening was inspired by a neighbour’s pumpkin that straddled their shared fence, "Growing up, our childhood neighbor had a pumpkin that grew over the fence" Clair reminisces. This early experience taught her valuable lessons about sharing, growth, and the genesis of her green thumb.

Years later, the desire to elevate her gardening to a lifestyle of self-sufficiency prompted Clair and her partner to purchase their property. It was a pivotal moment

that led her to seek formal education in horticulture. Opting for a diploma over a certificate, Clair unlocked a world brimming with opportunities. “I just thought I was going to learn to grow things better. But instead, I realised that there's no limit to what you can achieve within the horticultural space. It's as big as your imagination," she states. This educational pursuit shattered her preconceived notions of horticulture, propelling her into a vast realm where creativity meets cultivation.

Clair’s journey was not without its challenges, particularly in learning to navigate the whims of Mother Nature. Understanding the intricacies of growing seasons, soil health, and plant varieties required adaptability and resilience. "The hardest thing to navigate," she acknowledges, "is the growing seasons and the soil." This realisation underscores the dynamic relationship between gardener and garden, a continuous dance with the elements.

Clair’s achievements, including her participation in the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, underscore her innovative approach to garden design.

Clair’s philosophy reshapes conventional views of gardens, transforming them into canvases of colour, texture, and tone.

"As a photographer," she explains, "I think that I look at tone, texture, and colours, and it's really painting with plants." This unique perspective marries her love for

photography with her passion for gardening, enabling her to inspire others through her work.

Clair's aspiration to author a book marries her twin passions for gardening and photography, aiming to inspire others to explore the world of horticulture. Her affinity for roses, with their evocative fragrances and stunning beauty, speaks to the emotional depth of her gardening

philosophy. "Roses are my favourite flowers," she muses, emphasising their power to evoke profound memories and emotions.

Clair's story is more than a narrative of gardening; it's a testament to the transformative power of horticulture.

From a child marvelling at a neighbour’s pumpkin to a visionary reshaping perceptions of garden design, her journey illustrates the limitless potential from learning to grow.

The Lauriston Blend

Horticulturalist, Farmgate, flowers & education

@the_lauriston_blend

thelauristonblend.com

7-11 MARCH 2024

of

Spontaneity Sense A

CLARE AINSWORTH & LOIQUE ALLAIN

STORY BY MAHMOOD FAZAL

BY CHRIS TURNER

“Printmaking encompasses many different techniques of printing ink and paints with a matrix onto different surfaces including but not limiting to paper and fabrics,” explains Loique Allain, who has been practising the linocut method since she was 11 years old. She says, “The method involves carving the lino with woodcarving tools and then rolling ink evenly onto the surface and then printing onto paper or fabric. I use a baren to handprint all my prints now.”

In the verdant expanse of Daylesford, where the rhythms of nature orchestrate the daily symphony of life, two artists have found a sanctuary for their creative endeavours. Local artists Loique Allain and Clare

Ainsworth have recently opened Wombat Hill Print Studio.

In her early years, Clare wasn’t as enthusiastic about becoming an artist, she says, “the idea of becoming a vet, a fashion designer or an archaeologist were all far more exciting to me.”

Clare has been working as a graphic designer and illustrator for 12 years, I’ve found myself specialising in artwork and posters for the food and wine world. I’m now making artwork for myself too. After so many years working to express the ideas of my clients, it was inevitable that one day I would want to focus on some of my own.”

Passing Clouds Winery

cellar door & Dining Room

9 minutes from daylesford

Cellar Door: THURSDAY - MONDAY 10am -5pm

TUES & WED BY APPOINTMENT

Dining Room: FRIday - Monday for Lunch

30 Roddas Lane Musk VIC 3461

passingclouds.com.au | (03) 5348 5550

For Dining Room reservations VISIT OUR website

A few years ago, Clare met Loique through friends when she moved to Daylesford from Sydney. Around the same time she was gifted a printing press and began utilising it in her practice.

“I made a lino print poster for an event at Bar Merenda called Pranzo in Sicilia. I love the balance between simple solid shapes and areas of more chaotic, painterly detail. It’s a simple idea, a table set under a lemon tree, but I think it’s perfectly evocative of a long, leisurely lunch in Sicily.”

Her work amplifies the pleasure of the world’s languorous moments, “Our life here revolves around the seasons - watching vegetables and flowers grow and die, growing grapes and making wine, cooking, drinking wine, eating. A glass of wine or a plate of food is usually a feature of my work!”

“I think printmaking appeals to me because it lies somewhere between design, illustration and art. The graphic designer in me needs to plan out the artwork to some extent, but it’s always the mistakes and accidents that happen during the process that give it the most character…a sense of spontaneity, an embrace of the hand-made and the imperfect.”

In the context of art, mistakes and accidents can also be viewed as fateful coincidences where chance becomes the sum of our actions. Making sense of the chaos is what we all do to keep moving forward, in Clare’s work it’s a lively feeling of atmosphere.

Loique’s work n the other hand is very much grounded in the vitality of the world around her, the works are a reflection of the vast and noisy symbiosis of nature.

“These recent prints are of Cornish Hill Reserve in Daylesford,” says Loique. “I walk regularly here and have always felt inspired by the landscape. I endeavoured to convey our connections to the landscape by exposing changing perspectives.”

“The region is inspiring as there are so many different formations and life in these countries. There are so many native and introduced species of animals and birds

there is forest, body of waters, rivers, aquatic plants, rock formations and many more.”

Works are for sale at Wombat Hill Print Studio, open most days between 10am - 4pm. Loique is running monthly linocut workshops of up to 6 people details can be found on her instagram or via email and Clare’s work is available for purchase from her website.

Wombat Hill Print Studio Howe Street, Daylesford

10am - 4pm most days

Clare's workclareainsworth.cargo.site

Loique's workloiqueallain.com

Reasons to Get Lost in Autumn…

COMPILED BY JESSICA WALSH

Clunes Booktown Festival

The charming Goldfields village of Clunes is internationally recognised as a Booktown. It is a hub of ideas and the arts… along with a disproportionately high number of bookshops.

Each year, an army of local volunteers and a small team of staff, host the annual Clunes Booktown Festival, which attracts 18,000 people to enjoy the most amazing whole town bookshop in the world. Think author talks, workshops, live entertainment, a kids village, and good food.

23rd & 24th March 2024

clunesbooktown.com.au

CRESFEST

Creswick's very own Folk and Roots Festival. Enjoy dancing in the street, concerts across 10 stages over 48 hours, great food and a fabulous small town. More than concerts, you’ll have the chance to participate through a densely packed program of workshops including singing, dancing and playing. Learn new skills and take part in the mayhem when KlezFest comes to CresFest and the streets are filled with klezmer dancing.

5-7 April 2024

cresfest.com.au

The Great Trentham Spudfest

Good old fashioned fun! Celebrating the humble potato. The Festival is now running over two days. Growers, cookers and enthusiasts unite. Local food & produce, artisan stalls, music, entertainment & activities. Set in the quaint town of Trentham, where the rich red volcanic soils produce the finest potatoes. One not to be missed!

4th & 5th May 2024

trenthamspudfest.org.au

Ballarat Heritage Festival

Celebrate Ballarat’s rich cultural history, inviting you to discover hidden gems; uncover untold stories; and explore the vibrant tapestry of Ballarat's golden past and evolving future.

From night-time heritage walks to interactive exhibits; hands-on workshops, a tweed ride and a vintage car show, the Ballarat Heritage Festival offers exciting events and activities to fill a weekend getaway. Experience the city’s diverse cultural landscape through live performances, traditional crafts and delicious local cuisine and produce.

17th - 26th May 2024

ballaratheritageweekend.com.au

AUTUMN LOCAL MARKET GUIDE

FIRST SATURDAY

WOODEND FARMERS MARKET

9am-1pm High Street, Woodend

FIRST SUNDAY

CASTLEMAINE FARMERS MARKET

9am-1pm Forest Street, Castlemaine

FOURTH SUNDAY

CASTLEMAINE ARTISTS MARKET

9am-2pm Western Reserve, Castlemaine (Opp Farmers Market)

GISBORNE ALL SEASONS MARKET

9am-3pm Gisborne Village Shopping Centre, Gisborne

SECOND SATURDAY

BALLAN FARMERS MARKET

9am-1pm Mill Cottage, 96 Inglis Street, Ballan

KYNETON FARMERS MARKET

8am-1pm St Pauls Park Piper Street, Kyneton

SECOND SUNDAY

CLUNES FARMERS MARKET

9am-2pm Collins Place, Clunes

MALDON MARKET

9am-2pm Cnr Church & Edwards Street, Maldon

THIRD SATURDAY

CRESWICK MARKET

9am-1pm Napier & Victoria Street, Creswick

GLENLYON VILLAGE MARKET

9am-1pm Glenlyon Hall, Glenlyon

LEONARDS HILL HALL & COUNTRY MARKET

9am-2pm Ballan-Daylesford Road, Leonards Hill

TRENTHAM FARMERS MARKET

9am-1pm Trentham Town Square, Trentham

THIRD SUNDAY

WOODEND LIONS CLUB MARKET

9am-1pm High Street, Woodend

THIRD SUNDAY

TALBOT FARMERS MARKET

9am-2pm Talbot

WANT TO BE

FOR A CURRENT MEDIA KIT CALL THE TEAM ON 5348 2008 FOUND@LOSTMAGAZINE.COM.AU

'LAST SATURDAY

LANCEFIELD & DISTRICT FARMERS MARKET

9am-1pm High Street, Lancefield

EVERY SATURDAY

WESLEY HILL COMMUNITY MARKET

9am-1pm Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine

EVERY SUNDAY

DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET

8am-4pm Daylesford Railway Station, Midland Hwy

found@lostmagazine.com.au

Loved dearly by visitors to the region and local alike, Lost has always been the go-to guide for what’s on, what to do and where to find what a visitor most wants.

RESTAURANTS, CAFE'S & FOOD STORES

HEPBURN GENERAL STORE

102 Main Rd Hepburn Springs.

Open 7 day from 7am. (Sundays 8am).

hepburngeneralstore.com.au

PALAIS-HEPBURN

5348 1000

New chef serving up Modern Australian cuisine in a luxurious setting. Open Thu 5pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 4pm-12am, Dinner from 5pm-9.30pm palais-hepburn.com

SAULT 5348 6555

2439 Ballan-Daylesford Rd, Sailors Falls. Seasonal Modern Australian dishes in a scenic homestead. Dinner Wed-Sun. Lunch Fri-Sun. sault.com.au

SWISS MOUNTAIN HOTEL

5345 7006

3454 Midland Hwy, Blampied. Pub meals & Functions. Dinner TuesSan. Lunch Wed-Sun. Closed Monday. swissmountainhotel.com.au

THE VIRGIN CAFE 5348 2271

77 Main Road Hepburn Springs. Open 7 days from 8am. Part café, part gallery. Enjoy some of the finest culinary delights in Victoria. bellinzona.com.au

WINERIES, DISTILLERIES & CIDERIES

BIG TREE DISTILLERY

1300 040 573

Producing Award Winning Farm Crafted Gin Distillery Tasting Room open most weekends and Mondays. bigtreedistillery.com.au

DAYLESFORD CIDER

5348 2275

155 Dairyflat Rd, Musk. Craft Cider, Tastings, Lunch & cellar-door sales. Online reservations, visit website for info on opening hours daylesfordcider.com.au

PASSING CLOUDS

5348 5550

30 Roddas Lane, Musk. Winery open daily 10am5pm. Lunch 12pm Fri-Mon (bookings are essential). passingclouds.com.au

WINE BARS, HOTELS & BOTTLE SHOPS

FARMERS ARMS DAYLESFORD

5348 2091

1 East Street, Daylesford. Open 7 days lunch & dinner. Hotel and accommodation. thefarmersarms.com.au

FOXXY'S AT CELLARBRATIONS

5348 3577

55 Vincent St Daylesford. Open 7 Days until late. Local and international wines, beers and spirits. cellarbrations.com.au

RED HARE WINERY

0499 607 609

Boutique vineyard & cellar door. 1225 Daylesford Malmsbury Rd, Denver Open Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon 11.00 - 4.30 redhareestate.com.au

THE LOBBY BAR

5348 2271

77 Main Road Hepburn Springs. Ope from 5pm until late. Swing by and settle in for the evening. bellinzona.com.au

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

PORTAL 108

5348 4353

108 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs

Clothing, shoes, handbags, designer pet gear, homewares and jewellery portal108.com.au

VENUES

PALAIS-HEPBURN

5348 1000

Serving up the best cocktails in the shire. Selected French and local wines. Boutique bottle shop. Thu 5pm11pm, Fri-Sat 4pm-12am Dinner from 5pm-9:30pm palais-hepburn.com

THE FARM DAYLESFORD

0406 690 775

Daylesford's newest event space. Built from recycled tin, wood, striking power poles and 160 year old trusses.

thefarmdaylesford.com.au

SERVICES

OZ-TRANS 0407 697 877

Professional removals, general, furniture & produce freight. Art, piano's, pallets & parcels. Regular runs to Melbourne, Geelong & west/central Vic oztrans.com.au

SIGNSATION

0427 425 577

We specialise in hand painted signs and murals. We also offer the most up to date methods in digital printing to our customers. signsation.net.au

ACCOMMODATION

THE AMALFI

5348 2008

A beautiful self-contained property featuring 20 en-suited guest rooms, commercial kitchen and conference spaces. thehousesdaylesford.com

HOTEL BELLINZONA

5348 2271

77 Main Rd Hepburn Springs. Open 7 days. Bespoke accommodation in the heart of Hepburn Springs. bellinzona.com.au

PARKSTONE REAL ESTATE

9115 7328

Shop 6/22-24 Howe Street, Daylesford. Real Estate Sales & Property Management. Servicing Daylesford, Castlemaine & the Macedon Ranges. parkstonerealestate.com.au

THE OXFORD

5348 2008

Historical property catering to large groups of up to 24, in the scenic Hepburn Springs area.

thehousesdaylesford.com

PEPPERS HOTEL

5348 2202

124 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs. Open 7 days. 1930's Daylesford hotel, transformed into a deluxe retreat.

mineralspringshotel.com.au

THE HOUSES DAYLESFORD

5348 2008

Office located at 3 Howe St Daylesford. Full service agency specialising in corporate retreats and both large & small groups. thehousesdaylesford.com

WOMBAT EDGE

5348 2008

A beautiful and modern country home for up to 11 guests. Set on 10 acres with a lake, and only 15 minutes from Daylesford. thehousesdaylesford.com

THE GARDEN HOUSE

5348 2008

You could easily forget that you are so close to Daylesford’s thriving town centre, when inside these remarkable grounds. thehousesdaylesford.com

LEWELLYN HOUSE

5348 2008

Accommodateing 18 guests with 9 bedrooms & 9 ensuites. Positioned opposite The Convent Gallery. thehousesdaylesford.com

2008

co ee looking at an old nursery that stood in the Coles car park and thinking to myself, wow imagine living here and having my own nursery, it would be a dream come true. That was 27 years ago. I finally moved here in my early 30's and have never looked back.

What brought me here is the charm of this small town residing on a hill that is nestled in a forest of green. I love the seasons and the changing colours, flowers and temperature. I have to mention good co ee and food at every turn.

Tell us, what is so special about the climate here? What works well in the garden?

Our climate is very varied which allows for a large palette of plants, trees and shrubs to be used. There is something for every season. We are fortunate that we can use both exotics, Australian natives and English perennials when planting. After living here for many years, I have been fortunate to visit many extraordinary gardens in Daylesford and surrounds that are hidden away that rival any grand European estates. What we have found that works best at our home garden

are European trees and shrubs such as Ginkgos, Beech trees, Acer Crimson Centry (for extraordinary colour) , Silver Birch Forest and majestic Cedrus trees etc. We Have underplanted these with deciduous shrubs and an array of English perennials. As I write this our garden is brimming with colour from Hydrangea Paniculatas, white Salvias, Dahlias in full flower, Agastaches and Verbena Bonariensis.

We are sad to hear that your reign at The Secret Garden is coming to an end - whats next for you?

It has been a wonderful opportunity and privilege to establish and operate The Secret Garden of Daylesford for the last 17 years. We are not disappearing, we are transitioning to our home garden where we will open our garden for two weekends in spring and two weekends in Autumn. It will be like the Secret Garden on steroids accompanied with music, food and fun. We will be collaborating with two other magnificent country properties 15 minutes apart, celebrating gardens in this region. I will also be hosting private garden tours through Spring, Summer and Autumn.

If you were to be a tourist in our town on a weekend, what would your itinerary look like?

I would begin my morning with a walk around the stunning Daylesford Lake followed by breakfast at one of our many fantastic cafes in Daylesford. I would then walk around the Botanical Gardens followed by a visit to the Convent Gallery and stunning grounds - the views over the town are stunning from here. Then my afternoon would be spent strolling around the streets of Daylesford looking at the gardens and what people are planting. Dinner would be at one of the brilliant pubs and then if I'm not too tired, a night walk in the cool crisp air of Daylesford.

I would definitely go to the Sunday markets to find an old treasure and then down to Hepburn to walk the Springs trail and visit Lavandula.

To keep up to date with Lou and her open gardens, be sure to follow along on Instagram;

@thesecretgardendaylesford