LEONIE KEYNES

1.Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do?

After a successful 28-year career in the Aviation Industry, I now work 2 jobs in Daylesford - Admin for the Catholic Churches of Daylesford & Creswick, and Casual Customer Experience o cer for the Hepburn Shire, where I am often at the Visitor Information Centre on weekends.

3. What do you love about Daylesford and our community?

Located in a picturesque region of Victoria, just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne to me lies the epitome of serenity. The moment I exit the freeway, inhale the crisp pure air, I feel instantly at ease, away from the chaos of the bustling city. The elegant harmony of nature, history, art, charming cafes & restaurants, bountiful fresh produce, and wine make for an appealing and relaxed way of living. Moreover, the community is welcoming, supportive, and diverse, which I enjoy being part of.

4. Tell us an interesting Visitor Info Centre happening – something out of the ordinary you have experienced?

I recall a gentleman who walked in with an eagerness to visit the hot springs. Although this is common inquiry, he was insistent that he had reached the Mornington Peninsula. He showed me his GPS device and phone, both of which showed ‘Mornington Peninsula’ as his destination. Despite delicately pointing out his current location on a map of Victoria, he remained unconvinced, & a tad exasperated with me. Subsequently, he requested information on the nearest beach, which I happily obliged showing him on a map and wished him well. Having been in customer service and training it for a long time, I am familiar with handling some odd requests with good humour and patience.

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

I would arrive Friday afternoon grab a co ee at Brew Jays and a stroll around either Lake Jubilee, Lake Daylesford, Hepburn Reserve or Botanical Gardens. Upon checking into my accommodation, I would get a massage from one of the many masseurs in town or a luxurious facial at Eko Skin Care Spa. Friday evening a drink at Daylesford Brewing Company before dinner at Frank & Connie’s Kitchen or Farmers Arms Hotel.

Early Saturday morning I would head to the Warm up Café in Mink St Daylesford to get a fantastic Smoothie Bowl. After that I would do a walking tour with Alice’s Journeys for a fascinating historic intro to the area, followed by a visit to the Museum & Mill Market. After a bite to eat at Harry’s Hepburn or Pancho, I would explore the Convent Gallery & the Black Gallery Daylesford for some art appreciation. Some shopping in Vincent Street then I would enjoy a decadent hot chocolate at the Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company. Dinner would be at Radio Springs Hotel, Beppe or Royal Hotel and then I would head to The Palais for some live music.

Sunday Morning a visit to the Sunday Markets then brunch at either Cli ys, Wombat Hill Café or Virgin Café. A drive to Lavandula, Chocolate Mill or a visit to Daylesford Cidery, Herbal Lore or one of our many wineries in the region.