Our home june 2013

OUR

HOME • people • places • produce

Renovations

• Honouring home’s character • Open-plan brings outdoors inside

Bright ideas The lowdown on lights

gardens and

labyrinths

ISSUE 12: WINTER 2013

Glitz and glamour Black, white and plenty of bling

Sentimental, stunning and soothing to the soul

PLUS: UPCYCLING, RUSTIC WINTER FARE AND MARKET IN FOCUS Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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with up to

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our

HOME

Welcome

On the cover: Glitz and glamour – page 19

Take time to enjoy winter’s delights

Photograph: Jayme Lowndes

For those who dread colder months, English author Edith Sitwell aptly reminds us of winter’s beauty.

by bushland views and Nicki’s English heritage.

She wrote, “Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.”

In contrast, black, white and plenty of bling are the dazzling comforts of home for bling queen Lurline Le Neuf and Rod Higgins, who also shares with readers some of his favourite things.

Editor Corinna Boldiston Phone 5820 3183 Writers Kerri Thomson Jenna Bishop Laura Griffin Sub-editors Shepparton News sub-editing department Graphic design Teresa Lagozzino Photographers Ray Sizer Julie Mercer Simon Bingham Bianca Mibus Jayme Lowndes Contributors Alastair McDonald Wendy Rossignoli

As we retreat from the elements into our indoor havens, it is also a great time to survey our living space and find inspiration for new home-making ideas – big and small.

There is plenty to inspire you in this issue of Our Home.

We feature two stunning renovations which took seven to eight months to come to fruition.

The idea “to do a few little things” grew into an extensive renovation at John and Denise Howley’s Shepparton home.

The result is a seamless merger of contemporary design with the home’s original character.

We also love Glyn and Nicki Teale’s clever open-plan renovation of the indoor and outdoor living areas at their Kialla home.

The transformation of the kitchen/dining and living area with the outdoor entertaining area was inspired

Digital editor Lance Simpson

Contents

Advertising manager Aaron Brown Phone 5820 3187

HOMES 5

13

10

Light up your life The lowdown on lights

13

Renovation brings the outdoors inside Clever open-plan influenced by bush views

19

33

44 Published by Shepparton News PO Box 204, Shepparton, Victoria 3632. (03) 5831 2312

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From little things big things grow “Big picture” renovation honours home’s character

The Bling Queen Lurline Le Neuf shares passion for black, white and plenty of bling

21

These are some of my favourite things: Rod Higgins

24

DIY home ideas Projects which cost less than $50

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Style ideas: Colour and walls

29

Up for grabs Win a double pass to Build and Renovating Expo

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Building design Energy efficiency and sustainable design

We look at lighting trends, mood lighting and energy efficient LEDs and visit beautiful gardens (one complete with a nostalgic cottage) and discover our region’s growing interest in labyrinths.

Warm-up this winter with Nigel Robinson’s recipes for rustic winter fare, rug up and head to a market (we feature Violet Town) and escape the elements with a cuppa and delicious treat at one of the region’s many bakeries.

Enjoy the comforts of the season!

Corinna Boldiston Editor

Coming soon . . .

Our Home – online at mmg.com.au

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Labour of love brings past back to life Nostalgic cottage a sentimental feature

38

Labyrinth shows path to peace Interest grows in ancient patterns’ meditative benefits

40

A connection to nature A garden for all ages

LIFESTYLE 44

Hearty winter fare beckons Recipes: Nigel Robinson’s rustic winter fare

46

Coffee Culture a growing trend A way to spend time with family and friends

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Put your dancing shoes on Keeping the past alive

48

Upcycling: Re-purposing old items

50

Market in Focus: Violet Town

52

Destinations: Rural bakery trail ‘Village’ bakeries tempt during a winter’s drive

54

Journey of life: Janene Burt

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

from little things

big things grow story KERRI THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON BINGHAM

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before

after

before

home facade

open

This was the property that inspired John and Denise Howley to put their hand up at auction.

The appearance, position, space to make alterations and the fact little had been done, would allow them to stamp their ownership on the character-filled property.

An expansive centre window forms a frame for a continuous landscape portrait in the open-living area (left).

The table setting came from Empire Shepparton and was perfect for the room – Denise thought if she put highback chairs in the room it would look over crowded.

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after

before

living

after

outdoor entertaining area

“Originally we were looking at doing modifications to our other home, but we wanted to move closer to the CBD,” John said.

bricks and front façade which the Howleys found appealing, were retained and merged with contemporary design.

With some building experience behind them, the Howleys envisaged they would knock down a few walls and “do a few little things”.

Denise recalls they had bought a new front door but John wanted to save the original door because “We bought the house for its character!”

However, when Denise’s brother, builder Greg Bicknell, came on board armed with creative and practical ideas, he presented John and Denise with different options – and the bigger picture.

There was a discussion to determine if the house should be rendered, but the overall opinion was to retain the original feature brickwork.

And that was the beginning of a “few little things” morphing into an extensive eight-month renovation.

“He kept adding to the budget,” John said.

When pitching ideas for design, John was pleased 101 Architects architect Peter Finn reminded them they had bought the house because of what it was and to work within this framework. Hence, the timber floorboards, high ceilings, beautiful

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“But we did render and paint the new garage and front pillars the same colour to blend,” John said.

At the time of the 2005 renovation, the demolition of a house in the same street proved to be a windfall.

“It had the same roof tiles as our house so I bought the tiles for the garage and side extension,” John said.

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These two recessed units (left) were originally linen cupboards in the old hallway and have been cleverly reinvented and edged with a timber architrave, replicating the former style.

Denise recalls she wasn’t sure about this choice but Greg was adamant.

tip: There are advantages in consulting professionals from the architect, builder, excavator and landscaper to the audio specialist, because, as John explained, they are experienced in dealing with challenges and obstacles.

>>> 7 With the attention to detail of fixture and fittings to retain uniformity, Greg felt the double-hung timber windows should be replaced.

“I thought the windows were okay, but apparently not the case,” John said.

“Getting people on board who specialise in their craft helps the design get the right outcome.”

They removed a passage, small lounge room and kitchen/meals area which opened up the living space, and made the whole area much more useable.

“Once some walls were knocked down we could see how it was going to be,” John said.

A room between the master bedroom and kitchen was opened up and the ensuite and walk-in robe and a pantry were created.

Daughter Emila’s bedroom was the old garage and the floor level was raised to match the rest of the home.

“The room was one colour in the morning and a second attempt with a different colour at the end of the day – the flexibility of making choices as we went,” John said.

The outdoor extension wasn’t a part of the original design – an umbrella was going to suffice as the outdoor area.

The backyard was totally cleared ready to start again and as soon as they were in the process the new idea for the outdoor space unfolded.

“We went for the covered area for durability and practicality,” John said.

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Recycled bricks from an inside chimney were utilised to build the back veranda pillars to retain authenticity.

The design extends the use of the room in winter with the inclusion of patio blinds, four flat ceiling panel heaters and ceramic floor tiles.

“We were limited in choices as we needed a thin tile so as not to encroach on the ceiling height,” Denise said.

“This is an example of having someone like Greg in the know because we wouldn’t have given it a thought.”

“The water feature went from a bag of concrete to a Taj Mahal waterfall,” John said.

“But the retaining wall hides the vegie garden!”

John and Denise both love their outdoor area and during the summer are out there all the time – breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Denise said the kitchen was practical and convenient, with a glass side door access.

The adjoining garage was built from scratch and reflects the same roofline as the house.

“The front gates were made by my brother-in-law Trevor Seccull,” John said.

“We had a lot of discussion if the design was slide in or swing open but I didn’t like the bottom track for the slide open option so it swings open,” Denise said.

In the end, a timeless, minimalistic design that synchronises perfectly for the lifestyle the Howleys were seeking. v

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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New Homes Renovations • Kitchens • Vanities • Laundries • Entertainment Units • Studies • Office Fittings • Commercial homes » 9 Our• HOME WINTER•2013

lighting

light up

your life

Increasing in popularity, several ranges provide matching lamp and pendant shade lighting for uniformity.

LED lowdown Most home and businesses are wired for traditional globes and are held to ransom by the poor efficiency of halogen lights.

However, there is a swing toward the energy-efficient LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting. While LED light bulbs currently cost more than ordinary bulbs, they lose little energy in heat output and are a much brighter light.

Lights Plus Shepparton owner Mark Librio said a 10 watt LED downlight globe was equivalent to a 50 watt halogen light, equating to a one-fifth saving.

“An LED globe is rated at about 50 000 hours’ worth which works out to about a 25 to 30 year lifespan of domestic use,” Mark said.

“People are looking to save money and expect to save quite a bit of their electricity bill by converting to LED lighting, but the actual light consumption of a family home is about 15 per cent.

“It is affordable when you look at the bigger picture with less maintenance and the price of an LED globe is decreasing as there is an increase in demand.”

LED globes are not confined to just downlights; there is an extensive range of LED replacement globes.

To convert to LED lights, it may not be as simple as changing a globe but it’s worth consulting a lighting specialist or qualified electrician.

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Latest looks The choice of lighting effects has never been greater.

Minimalist downlights have been fashionable for the past 20 years and lighting trends are back to a blend of classical and flamboyant decorative styles.

Designer pizzazz can be achieved by hanging a decorative feature fitting over the dining table or the entrance is another popular space.

There are spectacular showrooms with different sizes, styles and textures ranging from cage designs, warehouse influence, drum pendant or modern chandeliers.

“There are so many funky lightning options from red, amber, crystal and chrome whereas the traditional styles are not as popular as most new builds are modern,” Mark said.

Extending beyond the front door, the focus on garden lighting is becoming second nature.

“Inground up-lighting is popular of trees, fences, water features, paths and deck lighting (and) is created by a flush fitting inground light that sits flat on the ground and the light washes up,” he said.

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

story KERRI THOMSON

In the mood Mood lighting can highlight and enhance rooms within your home, softly flooding them with mellow lighting.

There are different styles of mood lighting.

Lights Plus Shepparton assistant manager Bec Taylor said a lamp could create points of interest and the more lamps in a room the increased transformation of mood lighting.

“Chrome cut-out lamp shades plus the combination of chrome and crystal can add class and sophistication and a different feel to the room.

“Traditional oriental hand-painted lamp bases are also popular for certain homes.”

“People usually buy lamps for lounge rooms and bedside tables, small or large and people like touch lamps,” Bec said.

Lamps can introduce splashes of accent colour into a room and popular are red, green, purple and always, neutral tones, and can be installed on a 24-hour timer for convenience.

“Reach lamps, industrial designs, wicker and timber style lamps and oversized lamps are really in at the moment.

“People are using lamps as a feature, instead of prints on a wall,” Bec said. v

Simply Stylish

Reach lamps are a current trend.

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WINTER 2013

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Country ViCtoria’s Hi Fi speCialists homes

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

renovation brings the

outdoors inside

The attentive design of this room is totally influenced by the landscape – and what an impressive combination they make.

As the change of seasons transpires within bird’s-eye views for the Teale family, everyday living inside this space is a joy. story KERRI THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY JULIE MERCER

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before

after

The English-style influenced kitchen was relocated to a defined space.

It has spectacular views of the driveway entrance and features a marble island bench top – a favourite of Nicki’s.

In 2007, Glyn and Nicki Teale’s Kialla home underwent a sevenmonth renovation which delivered a clever open-plan design with new kitchen/meals and living area with outdoor living and bushland views at their fingertips.

The style and decor is influenced by Nicki’s English heritage as she recalls choosing elements she enjoyed from family homes while growing up and living in the United Kingdom.

“It was handy to be living here during the renovation to monitor what was going on,” Nicki said.

“Like take two on the kitchen window – the window altered so it was flush with the kitchen sink.”

horrendous – especially the removal of the slate flooring. But despite the fine, black dust particles scattering everywhere, being deafened by the thunderous noise and vibration from the constant jack hammering for days on end, the result was a perfect black butt timber floor.

Once the space was gutted, a big solitary post remained in the centre of the room – definitely not in keeping with the open-plan design.

For the Teales, it was important aesthetically to find a solution to this issue.

“It was a point of being persistent and Glenn Rikys our builder managed to get rid of it,” Nicki said.

However, the downside was the overall upheaval and the challenge of living without a kitchen as well as dust and more dust.

“It was easier to leave it there as it was a big job but we upgraded the ridge and redeveloped the structure so it could be removed and the outcome was great,” Glenn said.

“The doorway separating the new extension to the rest of the house was only concealed by black plastic and netting just in case snakes came in,” Nicki said.

The wood fireplace is a strategic placement in front of glass windows and doors and the bold black flue soars up to the raked ceiling and is a highlight within the huge space of the room.

There were moments when living among the renovation was

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The three automatic flyscreens (left) were installed to extend the longevity of the outdoor space and for the practicality of a room secure from nature’s elements.

m und an er ag ne em w en t

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WINTER 2013

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The tiered raised deck is surrounded by lush foliage and overlooks the free-standing spa tub and Mediterranean swimming pool with uninterrupted views across the bushland landscape. It’s a special haven under a starlit sky.

<<< 14 On the west side of the room an undercover outdoor extension with hardwood timber deck, custom built bi-fold hardwood doors and timbers windows, views framed by three stacker stone pillars and remote-controlled flyscreens is a magnificent, secure outdoor room.

“This was a bit of a mission to recess the tracks for the blinds within the pillars so they didn’t protrude,” Glenn said.

At the time of the renovation remote-controlled flyscreens were a relatively innovative product and a high-end inclusion in this project.

On the north side French doors open onto an extensive terracotta tiled area flowing on to a pool and a raised point overlooking a luxurious spa tub that would be the epitome of relaxation on a moonlit night. v

Your complete decorating solution...

Don’t let your taste buds miss out, Experience Emerald PoP before it disappears.

The European inspired craze of Pop-Up Restaurants is hitting Shepparton, providing food lovers with a chance to experience dishes influenced by regional Chinese, South East Asia and Mediterranean cuisine, described as Eurasian.

The team at Emerald Bank Catering will introduce “Emerald PoP”, an al a carte restaurant experience within the Woolshed Function Centre, which is a new and exciting option for dining during the winter in Shepparton.

Open: Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday lunch through to mid-August.

Call now to book your table!

638 - 640 Wyndham Street, Shepparton P: 5831 5622

www.dcbdesigns.com.au www.dollarcurtains.com.au

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Special prize draw All diners at Emerald Pop will go into the draw to win a 90 minute master class for six people, including wines. The master class with Brendan will reveal the secrets behind some of his most popular dishes.

FOR BOOKINGS AT EMERALD POP CALL 0408 575 025

7719 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla VIC 3631

brendan.speed@gmail.com

www.emeraldbankwoolshed.com.au

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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Enjoy parklands and a community hub.

This estate is located closely to Wanganui Park Secondary College, sports facilities, supermarket and shops.

Please refer to our website for detailed maps of this estate.

SELLING NOW STAGE 1 & 2 This vibrant Northern Estate located off Parkside Drive, Shepparton, offers family friendly and affordable living with blocks priced from $72,500.

Enjoy parklands, waterways and wetlands as well as environmentally sustainable designed homes.

Please refer to our website for detailed maps of this estate.

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

5821 8388

12 Melville Street, Numurkah. Phone

5862 2611 homes

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Shepparton Dallas Moore 91 Fryers Street 5821 9033

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Violet Town 5798 1761 Agency - Alexandra

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

The queen of bling

Lurline Le nEUf is not intimidated by the glitz and brilliant flash of glitter.

Lurline cannot pinpoint the defining moment that started her love of bling, she simply has always loved it – it surrounds her, she creates it and she wears it. story KERRI THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY JULIE MERCER AND JAYME LOWNDES

It is everywhere, from jewellery encrusted with precious stones and bracelets laden with rhinestones, to glitter glued onto shoes to add flair and the bling artwork she weaves into the home she shares with partner Rod Higgins.

The most appealing part of Lurline’s designs is that they catch light to help the item sparkle, drawing the eye and inspiring one’s imagination.

“For me I like my own style influence and choice of decor as I enjoy it,” Lurline said.

“I also love diamonds and white and black is very much my wardrobe colour and influence my style,” Lurline said. >>> 20

Above: It was difficult to get a chandelier fitting from a dollar cost point of view Lurline said, prompting her to improvise. She designed and drafted a cluster of four different sized disco balls suspended from the ceiling above the entrance staircase and in the afternoon it is beautiful with the sunlight dancing on the reflecting balls.

Left: The black wall in the master bedroom allows Lurline’s bling features to ping. Lurline has decorated a papier-maché torso and dressmaker’s model, and dressed candles with shiny bracelets.

Right: The Audrey Hepburn fabric wall art is a handmade gift from her daughter and reminds Lurline of a movie reel. In true Lurline fashion, she felt a bit of bling was needed and crowned the tiaras with jewels and also added matching cushions for the black leather sofa.

Far right: Two modern white leather bench seats are great additions when entertaining on the outdoor deck, but aren’t always what they seem. Lurline explains they don’t have a lot of space, and ingeniously stacks them on top of each other to duplicate as sleek shelves in the lounge room rather than keep then in the garage and pull them out all the time.

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<<< 19 Lurline has worked in many fashion genres – clothes, fabrics and homewares. Her interesting fashion pedigree started as a girl Friday for English rock group Emerson, Lake & Palmer, who found success in the 1970s.

She then worked with the guru of fashion – Joan Burstein of Brown’s boutique South Molton St, London (one of London’s most important fashion destinations) – who is credited with bringing Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren to London.

“Brown’s are known for its famous clientele from Jackie O, Paul Newman and Mick Jagger and I worked for her as personal assistant for five years where I learnt to organise and style,” Lurline said.

“I have always been bling and people just expect it of me.”

Above left: Lurline revamped the sideboard with a distressed finish by applying a silver metallic paint and crystal-style handles. She picked up the stunning zebra skin rug while on a trip to Spain years ago.

Inset: Discovered on a visit to a night market in Melbourne, the enchanting crystal ball sits on a mirror tray on a refurbished old wrought iron stand Lurline painted black. “It looks yummy!” she gushes.

“It was initially on the outdoor table until the sun went through the crystal ball and marked the table,” Lurline said.

Above: The razzle dazzle in the guest room is a blend of Lurline’s ideas.

The bedhead is layered with a wooden-framed canvas painted black, covered in sheer netting fabric with sequins and a perspex sheet is bolted on top.

“The perspex was meant for a piece of artwork which didn’t work and I thought ‘I have this perspex what am I going to do with it?’ So I made it into a bedhead,” Lurline said.

october 19 & 20, 2013 Shepparton Showgrounds

Featuring everything great about Shepparton – gardening, landscaping, outdoor living, leisure, camping, cars, pools, spas, fishing, sustainable living, produce, art, craft and much more.

More stalls, A ShowcASe oF the beSt on more entertainment, oFFer in the region more activities, For more information or to secure your site, call more to see!

Andrea Mcnab at the community Fund goulburn

On a trip to Bali, Lurline saw a lot of these chandeliers and they were too heavy to bring back, so she sourced a wall art frame, discs and real crystals from Chicky Babes Jewellery Beads & Giftware in Shepparton and made it.

“At night the light gives the most amazing shimmer on the walls,” Lurline said.

Below left: Lurline loved the fabric of her dresses, which she used to upholster the chair and bedside lampshades.

Below right: A white tallboy displays ritzy stilettos and evening bag.

Valley on 1300 651 224 or 0409 323 842 or email info@thecommunityfund.com.au

Proudly presented by the Rotary Club of Shepparton Central, me the Community Fund Goulburn Valley and Hunter Home Timber and Hardware ardware.

pening today

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WINTER 2013

Rod Higgins enjoys life. He loves the stunning river and bushland backdrop of the home in Shepparton he shares with partner Lurline Le Neuf.

He has a natural tendency to take care of the down and out – thankfully for Brutus (dog) and Lance (cat) – but don’t underestimate Rod’s serious side.

On a lovely day you might pass Rod, a busy lawyer, suited up and riding his Honda Vespa on his way to court.

“ “ Vespa

“

This is my second Vespa. The first one Lurline’s daughter’s boyfriend bought for her because she didn’t have a licence and he thought it would be safer for her. Lurline ended up buying it and we both thought, `Why not?’ and got our licence.

Unfortunately it was victim to vandalsim. We enjoyed the Vespa so much we went and brought this one. Every day in the summer I ride it to work and sometimes I dink Lurline on the back – it’s great fun.

I was walking through the Block Arcade in Melbourne heading to Hague’s chocolates (a favourite) and passed a shop that restored frames and photos.

I noticed an old photo of West Melbourne Football Club in the window and stopped out of interest because my dad used to play with them.

On closer inspection, my dad was actually in the photo. I was as pleased as punch. I bought two copies, one for myself and one for my sister. It was special, because we didn’t have many photos of him.

“

Rod Higgins

“

“

Football photo

These are some of my favourite things . . .

“ “ “

WINTER 2013

“

Meet nine-and-a-half year old Brutus the St Bernard-German shepherd. I picked him out from the pound when he was six months old. I didn’t think anyone else would take him because of his size and I didn’t have the heart to let him be put down.

Lurline’s response was “You’ve got to be joking, he is huge”. He’s really playful and it’s like skiing when we take him for a walk.

“

Our HOME

“

Meet Lance our moggy cat, who thinks he’s human. Some friends rescued him from the RSPCA. Our friends were moving to Newcastle and asked if we would take Lance in, 10 years ago.

Lurline’s photo This photo was taken about two-and-a-half years ago. I moved to Shepparton in 2001 and 16 months later I met Lurline through a mutual friend. My place looked like a bachelor pad and when Lurline moved in she made my house our home. We love to cook and entertain and we have a great time together.

Two years ago in Bali we had a commitment ceremony.

“

“

Brutus

Lance

“

Even B Lurline rutus sparkle ’s love of blings with .

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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www.webbsfencing.com.au Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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diy

WITH TERESA LAGOZZINO

Decorating and customising your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little time and imagination you can create unique pieces for your home with your own personal creative touch.

DIY home ideas FOR LESS THAN $50

Here are a few recent DIY projects I have been working on. Hopefully they inspire you to get creative too.

after before hall table revamp

Cost: $48 Table: $35 3 Handles: $1 er ap p d n sa s Plu t n ai and p

Second-hand and antique shops are a great place to find pieces of furniture to revamp at low cost.

I stumbled across this hall table at a local second-hand store.

I gave this piece a quick sand and painted it with an oil-based satin black paint that I already had. (If the furniture is heavily stained or painted you may need to strip it back to its original state with paint stripper). I used a foam roller for the larger areas and a small brush to get into the corners.

While oil-based paint is messier and harder to clean up, it is harder wearing and I didn’t need to sand the original oil stain back as much as if I was painting with a water-based paint. I also used satin rather than gloss as it is more forgiving. Gloss paint will make any imperfections stand out.

To finish the piece, I replaced the old handles with two silver handles from Provincial.

before

stylish necklace holder There is nothing more annoying than finding your necklaces in a tangled mess. By hanging them on a corkboard they are easy to find and tangle-free.

I painted a corkboard that I already had with a beige paint. I then painted the frame with a black satin paint.

I purchased a roll of flower felt stickers from Spotlight and added a strip to the top and bottom of the cork board.

Cost: $6.89 r: $3 Felt sticke $3.89 Push pins: d and ar bo rk Plus co had) y d paint (alrea

I inserted some black push pins across the top of the board so they were disguised by the pattern in the felt sticker. These became the ‘knobs’ to hang the necklaces on.

You can use this to hang any jewellery (bracelets and earrings) and you could paint and decorate it to suit your own decor. Hunt around craft sections for other decorating ideas.

after 24 »

homes

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

before

after

Do you have the right cover for your assets

Cost: $10 ls: $10 Three stoo paper d n sa Plus and paint

worn-out stools I found a set of three barstools for $10 at a second-hand store. I sanded them back and applied three coats of white satin paint.

I chose a water-based paint for these pieces as it is easier to create the distressed look than using a tougher oil base.

With a medium coarse sandpaper I lightly sanded the edges to create a distressed and worn look. This style is great for less than perfect pieces because any imperfections look like they were intended to be there.

Cost: $9 le pot: $9 Paint samp rd paint oa kb ac Plus bl ad) h y (alread

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I found this tired old box in a relative’s shed.

After a good clean and a light sand I applied three coats of Dulux Namadji paint and painted one of the front panels with blackboard paint.

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

before

22 Welsford Street, Shepparton Ph: 03 5821 7777 | Fax: 03 5822 2916 Email: ggib@ggib.com.au | Web www.ggib.com.au

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style ideas

colour with confidence Using colour to decorate your home can be extremely rewarding and can completely transform a tired space into something fresh and modern.

Interior designer Wendy Rossignoli shares tips for using colour to decorate your home.

One of the most fundamental points is to never choose just one colour.

Select a colour and then introduce associated colours and textures.

White: uplifting, pure; a well-considered choice.

Visual continuity is important. You need to introduce a bridge moving from one room to another. For example, opening into a lounge room, it’s important there’s no confrontation – link the ambience.

Brown: substantial, earthy; a stable choice.

Consider texture and natural fibres, for example wood, glass, porcelain, linen and voiles (they give an element of transparency). Linen and voiles are wonderful when creating ambience and the light transfer is great too.

Green: natural, uncomplicated and restful, green is a breath of fresh air.

Nature is awash with this colour and it balances the nervous system.

Tonality of greens is strong with contrast, for example, with a green landscape vista, the interiors could be a palette of greens with a purple tone contrast.

Comfort is an art: nothing can look sorrier than decoration lost in time. To help gain a deeper understanding, become friends with colour. To create a home with style and grace, consumers need to be confident with colour.

Fear of colour is common, home owners may choose to not use colour in their decorating scheme in case they make a mistake.

In the home market, neutrals and whites are mostly the popular colour choice, with a splash of colour to add interest.

Matching colours with emotions and personalities could help in increasing confidence in using a particular colour in your home.

Black: a dramatic, confrontational tone; it would definitely become the feature.

Grey: natural, a quiet achiever; a great colour to round out an interior.

Purple: mystical, spiritual; promotes high ideals and increases creativity.

Blue: stable, calming, inspires optimism. Blue stimulates the pituitary gland, promoting deep sleep.

Orange: fun, creative, radiant; it opens up the emotions and is great for communication.

Yellow: playful, uplifting, happy; yellow stimulates the intellect and is excellent for making decisions.

Pink: innocent, comforting, soft; pink is the peacemaker, it will blend well with a broader palette.

Red: symbolises energy, passionate, increases vitality; it can be a difficult colour to live with all the time, so apply as accents in residential uses.

– Interior designer Wendy Rossignoli

Neutral base offers accent options There are endless colour swatches and sample pots to scrutinise when selecting a new interior paint.

One design option to consider is a neutral wall palette to allow diversity in the way you accessorise a room.

Paula recommends five neutral colours that may reveal an ideal colour solution for your home:

“Choose natural base colour paint to walls and accessorise with feature wallpaper and decor,” interior designer Paula Dohrman said.

Beige Royal – Dulux

Colour choice is personal and if you like the tone of a paint colour but think it might be too dark or too light for a room, sample full, half and quarter strength alternatives.

Burlap Beige – Taubmans

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Comfort – Haymes Grand Piano – Dulux Alta Sierra – Wattle

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

Take a fresh look at

wallpaper

We are spoilt for choice when it comes to wallpaper.

design styles such as contemporary,

If you are interested but don’t think you are brave enough to go through with it, sit down in a showroom and browse through the pile of wallpaper books – you will be intrigued by the wealth of options.

of patterns includes floral of all

classical, vintage or retro. The array descriptions, stripes and geometrics, while finishes can be embossed, reflective, textural, satin and velvet – the choices are endless. The vibrant

There are some you will instantly love and declare ‘I must have that’ and others will remind you why you were reluctant in the first place.

bold colours will blow your mind and

Wallpaper is a great way to express your personality or give the kids ownership in their bedroom.

thinking about applying wallpaper.

Change or add mood to any room within the home, office or commercial space by strategically covering one or more walls.

Wallpaper is a way to add various

tantalise the imagination.

Interior designer Paula Dohrman said you could really enhance a room by “Wallpaper has been evolving into a really exciting medium in either the home or office,” Paula said.

Wallpapers are easier to hang, vary in price and are relatively inexpensive.

Will you change your mind?

walls only limited by

your imagination

Do you fancy waking up with a view of a still, turquoise ocean and an azure sky extending to the horizon? How about having your living room framed by the backdrop of the alluring Manhattan skyline?

Or perhaps a world map could transport your child on imaginary faraway adventures, all within the comfort of their bedroom?

Images supplied by www.pickawall.com There is a new trend gaining popularity which recently appeared on the television show House Rules.

A wall image can be applied as a temporary measure for a special

Through unique imagery wallpaper, you can instantly transform your home or business with designer flair and evoke a particular mood with little fuss.

feature.

There are websites where you can choose from a gallery of supplied images ranging from landscapes to famous people, patterns, sport, art and much more. If you are more artistically inspired, you can upload your own image or make a signature design. This aspect can add a personal connection and in turn create a great conversation point.

such as plaster, timber and smooth concrete walls. The self-adhesive

Popular images include wood, stone or brick patterns and graffiti, including Melbourne laneway pictures.

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

occasion, party or corporate event, or can be used as a long-term Some products offer flexibility of use, with a self-adhesive backing that allows the image to be removed or re-applied to most wall surfaces wallpaper doesn’t require any glue; just peel off the backing sheet and apply the wallpaper to a smooth, clean wall.

So target the wall, choose an image which appeals to you, and transform your room.

The beauty of it is, when you want a change – just peel it off!

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

expo

be inspired at Home builders, renovators, tradespeople and industry business people will find an array of inspiration at one of Australia’s leading building and renovation expos in July.

As well as including some of Australia’s most recognised brands, the expo will be a launching pad for many new products and services that are entering the market.

Running in partnership with the Master Builders Association of Victoria for eight years, the Building and Home Improvement Expo has undergone its own renovation.

Visitors will find ideas for bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, lighting, heating/cooling, doors and windows, energy efficiency and solar products, roofing, fencing and gates, building materials, outdoor living, pools and spas, finance and sustainability solutions and more.

More than just a name change, the Build and Renovating Expo at Melbourne Exhibition Centre from July 12 to 14 will reflect a shift in focus and will put visitors in the spotlight.

The expo will feature ideas from more than 250 industry leaders specialising in innovative building materials and products.

There will be free industry seminars, an `Ask an Expert’ feature, and a family activity area by The Lighthouse Foundation.

Opening times are: Friday, July 12 from 10 am to 9 pm; Saturday, July 13 from 10 am to 8 pm; and Sunday, July 14 from 10 am to 5 pm.

Ticket prices are: $20 (adults); $15 (student / pensioner); free (children under-14 years); and $16 (adults) for pre-purchased online tickets at www.buildexpo.com.au

Our Home has five double passes, valued at $40 each, to give away to the Build and Renovating Expo at Melbourne Exhibition Centre from July 12 to 14.

win

To enter, address an envelope to: Our Home Build and Renovating Expo Competition, Shepparton News, PO Box 8000 Vic 3632.

Remember to write your name, address and phone number on the back of the envelope.

Entries close on Monday, July 8. Winners will be notified by phone.

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www.carpetcourt.com.au Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

The Lockhart

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WINTER 2013

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building design

Alastair McDonald – Ecotecture Design Group director and Building Designers Association of Victoria vice-president

Energy efficiency . . .

Is it really a sustainable design?

Energy efficiency has been a hot topic in the building industry during the past decade, with a growing number of people making a conscious effort to protect the environment by incorporating environmentally sustainable design principals.

manufacture and transport.

Sustainable design is more than just a high performing, energy efficient house.

Fixing of materials is also a consideration. If materials are screwed instead of nailed and glued, they can be removed without damage.

This will allow recycling of the materials when the life of the building is reached, ultimately reducing landfill and the production of new materials.

Energy ratings are a method of determining the thermal performance of a building.

Designers and occupants also need to consider the embodied energy in material; renewable materials as well as the occupant’s habits, lifestyle and building area to truly embrace sustainable design.

The energy rating tool only looks at the building envelope.

The lifecycle of a building has become shorter in recent years, where a building may be built for a sole purpose. When the occupant’s stage of life has changed, they move on.

Consideration should be given to adaptability of the design, including flexibility for different occupants and their stages of lives. This will in turn prolong the life of the building.

By designing a building which is easily adaptable, the building’s lifespan is increased and the possibility of it being demolished and becoming landfill to make way for a new building is decreased.

Renewable materials such as timber are an excellent choice of material and require a lot less embodied energy to extract from the environment,

Other materials such as concrete, steel and composite consume a much larger amount of embodied energy to source and manufacture. Locally produced materials should be sourced where possible.

Water capture, usage and reuse are important. Rain water can be easily captured and reused within a toilet’s flushing systems, the laundry and in the garden. Rain gardens are a clever way to naturally filter the water before reuse.

All the above considerations are in vain unless the occupant’s lifestyle and habits are thoroughly examined.

The occupants should be prepared to reconsider the need for a fourth bedroom, and multiple living areas and bathrooms. The smaller the building envelope, the less energy is required to condition these spaces.

Occupants should consider wearing warmer clothing in winter rather than having their home’s heating on high.

In recent years there has been a substantial increase in the number of solar power systems retrofitted to houses, which is great. However, without a well-performing house and educated occupants it will do little for the environment and the electricity bill. It all comes down to the occupants’ habits and the performance of the building.

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O F

O U R

I N D U S T R Y Our HOME

WINTER 2013

labour of love

brings past back to life The violin music of Andre Rieu in the air was spellbinding.

When I entered the cottage bearing the name of Lawrie Merritt’s parents – ROY ALMA – and absorbed what he had created, I shed a sentimental tear.

Lawrie Merritt has lived at the Toolamba farm all his life, and his humour, simple approach to life and enjoyment of his family’s history have combined to create a project with a powerful and emotional impact.

STORY KERRI THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY BIANCA MIBUS

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Above left to right: The combination of the glowing fire and soft lantern light spreads a warm mood.

The rock wall is a talking point. Lawrie collected the stones, which have names underneath, from places they have visited. “Some I picked up from a beach in Scotland, put them in my pocket, and they came home with me and I made a timber frame and put them on tartan fabric.”

Family photos of in-laws, a 100-year-old oil lamp from Lawrie’s brother-in-law and doilies from Carol’s mum. “I thought if we have them we use them and find a way for them to work,” Lawrie said.

Left: Lawrie Merritt is full of interesting stories and he has the gift of being able to play on the piano any music he hears.

The Generation wall features milking cups and signs. The view through the window extends to the tree, which was the site of the original home where Lawrie grew up.

Above: “The two irons are the original ones my mum used to heat up on the stove and iron my clothes. I hunted everywhere for an old stove.” Lawrie asked his next-door neighbour if he had one and there it was out in the garden. Lawrie has restored it.

Carol brought the Willow pattern dinner set new for the sideboard.

There was no plan – Lawrie just did it.

way from design to planting.

Although he didn’t realise it at the time, he was embarking on a twostage project which would showcase his upbringing.

“Carol would bring roses home and I would say, ‘Yes dear’, and just plant them.”

Behind Lawrie and his wife Carol’s home, he transformed a lifeless, disused maternity paddock into an adventurous garden with abundant and attractive blossoms.

During this project, there was the evolution of stage two.

“I pulled the fence down and decided I was going to build a garden,” Lawrie said.

“I would sit for a spell on a particular rock in the garden and it all happened from there – I decided to re-build the cottage.

“It has been a labour of love and it is pretty much self-sufficient.”

“I got the excavator in and two days later it had just happened.”

To Lawrie, everything is simple. He just builds things.

It was no half-hearted effort; the garden contains a man-made lake, arched timber-plank bridge, rock, a cascading water feature, an arbour walkway and flower beds, all of which were built by Lawrie.

“I have made everything and I didn’t want it perfect,” he said.

“But the flagpole is from the original Toolamba South school. I remember it as a boy.“

“My friend would come over every Tuesday for the day and help and we would work for half-an-hour, then rest for three-quarters of an hour.”

Lawrie said every plant put in the garden had to flower regardless of the season.

Lawrie has reclaimed corrugated iron from the old sheds, and used second-hand ironbark timber from Jones Timber Mill at Rushworth to make all the fittings and furniture. >>> 36

The garden has been a family affair, with many helping hands along the

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“The bricks for the floor were hard work; I used a crowbar, pick, shovel and wheelbarrow.

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WINTER 2013

Left: Lawrie sourced the branch to hang a sign with the St Kilda emblem.

“That’s the interesting part – it’s the chase, like finding the arm on the log.”

Top: The olive tree is a focal point when entering the garden. “I wanted something that was different and a talking point.”

Above: An old wagon Lawrie dragged into the garden. “The wheel fell off and that’s where it stayed,” Lawrie said.

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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Left to right: There are about 111 rose bushes in the garden.

The fuchsia pink flowers taste sweet like honey or nectar.

A pink and lime grevillea is harvested by a bee.

<<< 34 “Inside here is a wasp nest and people want to know why I don’t knock it down,” Lawrie said.

“When I was working I watched the wasp build it and he worked his heart out – I can’t knock it down.”

Lawrie recalls everyone throwing prospective cottage names at him but sentiment was strong and although he knew all along what he was going to name the cottage, for a long time he kept it to himself.

“When my older sister came and she saw what I had named it she hugged me and we both cried,” Lawrie said.

Most days at about 4.30 pm Lawrie wanders down to the cottage to listen to music, sit out the front with a glass of wine and watch the wrens come out in the garden.

“Sometimes Carol joins me and I make a plate of cheese and bikkies, it’s just wonderful,” Lawrie said.

“It’s magnificent to sit here in the middle of winter with a bottle of red – it’s simple.” v

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Our HOME

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

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Yoga and pilates instructor Jen Scandolera has a labyrinth that she and her family use to meditate.

Labyrinth

shows the path to peace Labyrinths are meditation tools that have been used across cultures and religions for thousands of years.

The ancient patterns are enjoying a resurgence of popularity in the Goulburn Valley as ADULTS AND SCHOOL CHILDREN discover their power to calm the mind and refocus.

Labyrinths are a pattern laid into the ground that people walk to meditate, refocus or pray. In the Goulburn Valley, you can find them in private gardens, public parks, church and health services’ courtyards and educational settings.

Labyrinths are not mazes. They have one path that leads to a central point.

People walk to the centre and then retrace their steps to exit the labyrinth.

A labyrinth can be made of different materials – they can be mowed into grass, painted, paved or laid out in rocks, bricks or timber.

Yoga and pilates instructor Jen Scandolera and husband Mike laid out a labyrinth the day they moved into their Orrvale home.

“We did it the day we moved in because the labyrinth had made such a huge difference to our lives,” Jen said.

They had a labyrinth for two years at their previous house. They walk the labyrinth together four or five times a week. Jen also walks it by herself.

“Sometimes we’re quiet, sometimes we talk about things,” Jen said.

It helps them deal or settle with unrest or worry and has been a “beautiful thing” for their relationship.

Both labyrinths are the classic seven circle pattern mown into grass. Mike mows the pattern once a week on average and defines the edges with a lawn trimmer every second week. Jen likes that it is natural, grows and

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changes with the seasons. Mike has added solar lamps to the labyrinth.

To Jen, the Labyrinth’s outer layer represents the outside world; when they walk in, they draw their thoughts into and connect with themselves.

“The different twists and turns can represent those in life. But unlike a maze, there are no tricks. There is just one path, so people walk the same path but do it their own way.”

Jen said the gentle turns left and right also activated both sides of the brain and could help people look at things differently.

They encourage their children to walk or even run through the labyrinth.

St Mel’s Primary School and Kindergarten built a Petite Chartres – named after the Chartres cathedral in France – labyrinth in January 2012. Staff, students, families and parishioners use it as a sacred space to pray, release stress, quiet the mind, discover their inner self or focus and prepare for learning.

Curriculum support teacher Luisa Cassise said school classes, parish meditation groups and staff groups scheduled to use the labyrinth and individuals walked it before school and during breaks.

“Labyrinths have one entrance and are designed to help you find your way,” Luisa said.

“They have strong, clear boundaries and make people feel safe. Labyrinth

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

storY Laura griffin

Above left and right: Chiropractor and meditation teacher Lisa Shortridge, pictured with Helen Malcolm, has helped build 27 labyrinths in the Goulburn Valley.

Left: St Mel’s Primary School students, staff and parishioners use the school’s labyrinth to meditate, pray and prepare for learning.

patterns are calming because they reflect circles and spirals found in nature.

•

Be clear about the reasons why they want a labyrinth;

•

Pick a space. Dr Shortridge said the minimum area needed was a circle of about 8 m in diameter because if it was any smaller it would be difficult to traverse;

Luisa walks it every morning and takes small groups of children through it before lessons.

•

Choose a style. The most popular patterns are the classic and the Chartres labyrinths.

“I feel more calm and centred after walking the labyrinth and I think the children are more focused during lessons.”

•

Choose a material. Dr Shortridge said people should consider the level of maintenance different materials would need;

The ancient centring tool is found across the world and in different cultures and religions. Luisa said Chartres labyrinths had a long Christian tradition – many were built in cathedrals in Europe during the crusades to signify a journey because most people could not make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

•

Consider the location of the entrance and the path width;

•

When laying the labyrinth on grass, mark it out with spray paint. Dr Shortridge’s husband Wayne has designed a labyrinth measuring rope that makes this process easier and more accurate;

•

Place other materials, such as rocks;

•

Dr Shortridge suggests doing a dedication or blessing before using the labyrinth.

“I think it’s a little bit like fitness, it is more beneficial the more often you walk it.”

How to make a labyrinth Chiropractor and meditation teacher Lisa Shortridge has advised on the development of 27 labyrinths in the Goulburn Valley.

Dr Shortridge suggested that people considering building a labyrinth should:

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

For more information, call Lisa Shortridge on 0419 562 790 or email dr.lisashortridge@gmail.com

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» 39

Verity Murray relaxes in her garden.

a connectioN

to nature

story LAURA GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY RAY SIZER Verity and James Murray have created a garden that their nine grandchildren enjoy as much as they do.

As well as many pleasant spots to sit and enjoy the outdoors, there is also a slide built into a garden bed, a trampoline under an oak’s canopy, a sandpit, a cubby house and a pool with a shallow section.

Every day the Murrays are home, they spend time in the garden, and their passion shows in the flourishing plants.

“When I’m gardening, I feel I’m doing something worthwhile and have a connection to the natural world,” Verity said.

“One of my aims now as a grandmother is to give children the opportunity to experience the joy and peace to be found in nature, and to experience the satisfaction of planting and watching things grow.”

When they decided to move from Melbourne to the country, the Murrays were keen to live by a river. They found a 28 ha property at Trawool by the Goulburn River which looks onto the Great Dividing Range.

The Murrays had wanted to use exclusively native plants, but the former owner had planted oaks and elms, which Verity described as having grown into “beautiful, big trees”, so they broadened their plant selection to include an eclectic mix of natives and exotics.

“There is always something of interest and in flower,” she said.

were a sea of flowers, including pink Japanese wind flowers. By a bird bath nestled into the bank, Arisaema grows. The distinct plant is also known as jack-in-the-pulpit because of the appearance of the flower.

Beside the birdbath is one of Verity’s favourite spots. The couple deepened a natural hollow in a granite rock they found in one of the paddocks to form the bird bath.

Another garden bed between the house and the river features gum trees and succulents. Verity wanted this bed to blend in with the bush background.

They have also made a campfire by the garden’s edge.

“We love camping, so we come out here and have a barbecue,” Verity said.

The couple grows vegetables in raised beds. In autumn, the asparagus becomes thick and bushy, and Verity cuts it back to ground level before the next growing season.

She said her favourite plant was rhubarb; “It’s quite decorative and I love stewed rhubarb. Four plants give me rhubarb all year round.”

The garden also contains citrus and stone fruit orchards. The couple keeps chooks, ducks and a guinea fowl and has a belted galloway breeding herd.

The garden surrounding their rammed-earth house occupies about 1 ha.

The house and garden have five water tanks – three rainwater tanks and two river water storage tanks – and all household water is recycled through a worm-waste system that goes back onto the garden.

There are steep banks on one side of the house and Verity said it took many years to work out what grew best there. In autumn, the banks

The section of garden nearest the house has an automated watering system and Verity and James have chosen plants for the rest of the

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homes

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

“There is always something of interest and in flower.” VERITY MURRAY garden that should not need watering.

“For the first time since we’ve been here, the rainwater tanks are empty so we have drawn water from the river for our household use,” Verity said in mid April.

Verity said wind was another challenge in the garden.

The former primary school teacher made the garden’s first public opening fun for children by giving them an activity sheet to find fairy and animal statues throughout the garden. More than 600 adults and children visited on the weekend of April 13 and 14. Proceeds went to the Fred Hollows Foundation.

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Our HOME

WINTER 2013

ECHUCA Ph: (03) 5481 3800

219 Numurkah Road Telephone: (03) 5820 9700

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www.kevinhicksrealestate.com.au

SEVEN CREEKS ESTATE The beautiful Seven Creeks Estate boasts breathtaking wetlands full of wildlife, large parklands, close proximity to a multitude of family friendly services and easy access to north and south bound main roads - all this 10 minutes from the heart of Shepparton.

Its namesake, Seven Creeks, meanders through the quiet estate lined by towering river gums. Coupled with fully serviced, large blocks and established top quality homes, it is the perfect place to call home.

On Seven Creeks Estate’s doorstep is the Kialla Children’s Centre with kindergarten and child care services, multi-million dollar sports precinct with cricket/football ovals, state of the art bowling greens and club house, tennis courts, walking and bike tracks. There is also a large hotel with quality dining and TAB, and a large shopping centre with restaurants, specialty stores and Coles supermarket close by. Seven Creeks Estate has easy access to the Goulburn Valley Highway direct to Melbourne, is a short distance to north bound alternate route around Shepparton and the Shepparton Airport.

Please refer to our website for detailed maps of this estate.

Priced from $105,000 Large residential allotments

Grammar Park Estate Shepparton’s elite residential estate, Grammar Park, located off Verney Rd, is now selling stage 7, presenting a rare and exclusive opportunity to join an estate that features some of Shepparton’s most beautiful and prestigious homes.

A family-friendly neighbourhood that enjoys a quiet, out of town location, but close enough to make the most of all that Shepparton has to offer.

Blocks include town services, some with the option of a 1Ml stock and domestic water right.

Priced from $165,000 Average half acre allotments Only 7 lots remain

Please refer to our website for detailed maps of this estate.

228 - 232 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Phone

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homes

5821 8388

12 Melville Street, Numurkah. Phone

5862 2611

Our HOME

WINTER 2013

LIFESTYLE • people • places • produce • recipes and more

The comforts of winter can be found in the aroma and social experience of our growing coffee culture (page 46) or a night at home with rustic winter fare (recipes page 45).

Meanwhile couples will escape the elements by swirling around the dance floor in scenes reminiscent of yesteryear (page 47) and upcyclers transform old junk into new treasures (page 48).

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WINTER 2013

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hearty winter FARE BECKONS Nigel Robinson has prepared delicacies for royals, popstars and movie icons, but earthy home-grown dishes are now among his favourite meals to share with family and friends. Rustic winter fare is a season specialty.

Yorkshire-born Nigel loves the change of seasons – and the arrival of winter is no exception.

“As the days draw in and the light changes, it gives signs and signals of cooking more rustic, body-warming food and using your chutnies and preserves that you’ve made over the year,” Nigel said.

“For me, it’s time to start thinking about planting bulb vegies like onions and leeks.

“As the temperature drops and the snow starts falling, there is nothing better than a crackling fire and rustic winter fare to warm the soul.”

NIGEL ROBINSON

“I like to plant on the shortest day of the year and harvest them on the longest day.”

A crackling fire, roasting chestnuts, foraging for edible mushrooms, and eating traditional European food with hearty root vegetables from their Euroa garden are relaxing winter pastimes for Nigel, wife Claire and son Daniel, 5.

It’s a far cry from the fast and competitive pace of his days as an apprentice chef at one of Europe’s top five-star hotels, The Savoy in London.

Up to 90 of the hotel’s 150 chefs would work in the kitchen at a time and Nigel said minimum 60-hour shifts were the norm during his apprenticeship in the ’80s.

“Sometimes a chef would come into the kitchen and say ‘Make sure this is good because it is for the Queen Mother.’ ” Nigel also prepared meals for Queen Elizabeth II, the Sultan of Brunei, Elton John, Paul McCartney and Sean Connery among other high-profile diners.

At times, the executive chef would entertain VIPs in his glass-fronted office and guest dining room which featured panoramic views of the kitchen.

Nigel’s career spanned 10 years in England and Germany, and another 10 years in Canada before he moved to Australia in 2007.

These days Nigel enjoys the balance of family life in the Strathbogies – “an easy drive to the snowfields” – and catering for News staff.

He couldn’t be more content.

“As the temperature drops and the snow starts falling, there is nothing better than a crackling fire and rustic winter fare to warm the soul,” he said.

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lifestyle

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WINTER 2013

Nigel’s Rustic Winter Fare

story Corinna boldiston PHOTOGRAPHY Simon bingham

Serves four

Entrée Winter Portobello mushroom salad – 9 large Portobello or Swiss brown mushrooms – 1 heart cos lettuce – 100 g shaved parmesan cheese – 50 g red onion, sliced in rings – 50 ml extra virgin olive oil – Salt and pepper

Cut the stalks off the mushrooms.

Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Wash cos lettuce. Char grill mushrooms and lettuce for two minutes. Set to one side.

Lay the mushrooms on a plate. Place lettuce leaves on top and then shaved parmesan cheese. Garnish with cracked black pepper and red onion rings.

Wine suggestion: Elgo Estate 2012 Allira Riesling

Dessert Pink Lady tarte tatin – 5 Pink Lady apples, peeled, cored and cut in half – 120 g castor sugar – 120 g butter – 1 sheet frozen puff pastry – 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tsp water

Main Braised beef brisket with Worcestershire sauce and baked cheese potatoes – 1 kg beef brisket

– 2 litre beef stock

– 100 g diced onion

– Garlic powder

– 100 g diced celery

– Salt and pepper

– 100 g diced carrot

– 4 medium Desiree potatoes

– 150 ml Worcestershire sauce

– 200 g salt

– 100 ml tomato puree

– 60 g Swiss cheese

Pre-heat oven to 200˚C. Heat the sugar in a non-stick pan until caramelisation occurs. Add diced butter and stir with wooden spoon until it becomes a golden brown sauce.

Add nine apple halves and turn after one minute.

Turn again for one minute, until tender. Remove the apples from the pan and place in a square baking tin the same size as the puff pastry sheet.

Arrange the apples so the core side is facing up and pour the caramel sauce over the top.

Place the puff pastry sheet on top of the apples and caramel. Brush with egg yolk and water mix.

Bake in oven for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and place a serving plate (upside down) on top of tarte tatin. Turn out onto the serving plate, displaying the caramelised apples on top.

Cut crossways into four slices and serve with icecream or thick cream.

Wine suggestion: Longleat Estate 2002 The Founder’s Semillon

Braised beef brisket Pre-heat oven to 170˚C (or alternatively use a slow cooker).

Season the beef brisket with salt and pepper. Rub in garlic powder. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce.

Place the brisket in a pre-heated pan and brown on both sides.

Add the remainder of Worcestershire sauce, tomato puree and beef stock and return to a cast-iron pot for oven baking, or alternatively into a slow cooker. Cook for three hours.

Remove the beef and reduce the liquid to a sauce consistency on a stovetop. (Note: if you used a slow cooker, you will need to first transfer the sauce to a saucepan.)

Baked cheese potatoes Prick the washed potatoes with a fork and place on an oven tray. Sprinkle with salt and cook for 45 minutes at 170˚C. Remove potatoes from oven, cut in half and place cheese inside.

Wine suggestion: Cape Horn 2010 Primitivo

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lifestyle

» 45

people

Coffee culture a

growing trend Australia is a nation with a caffeine addiction – it seems we can’t get enough of the rich, creamy and slightly bitter brew. story JENNA BISHOP photography SIMON BINGHAM

Picturesque vineyard on your doorstep Come and let us show you our new release reds and enjoy an antipasto platter with your friends on the deck overlooking the vineyard.

This picturesque vineyard is owned and operated by Guido and Sandra Vazzoler.

All wine is handmade on site by Guido and is available to sample and purchase at the cellar door. Our cheese is handmade by Sandra, a qualified cheesmaker.

Come and taste the wine with the winemaker and the cheese with the cheesemaker – a truly unique experience.

A special offer for Our Home readers: Buy any dozen bottles of wine and receive two extra bottles free.

Open Sat and Sun 10am - 5pm Lunch bookings are required 105 Old Weir Road, Murchison Ph: 5826 2294 www.murchisonwines.com.au

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lifestyle

With this addiction has come a coffee culture – a social experience which has evolved to become much more than just enjoyment of a beverage.

Although coffee first arrived in Australia with the First Fleet in 1788, it wasn’t until an influx of European immigrants in the 1950s that Australia was introduced to the quality-style coffee served in cafes and restaurants now.

GB Coffee owner Mark Shadbolt also attributed the rise of Shepparton’s coffee culture in part as a result of Melbourne’s famous food culture.

“Once people start out on the journey of learning about coffee, the more they want to know, (for example) learning about a particular blend from Brazil or Guatemala,” he said.

Australians are predicted to spend almost $800 million on coffee in 2013, not including those bought in cafes or takeaways.

The same research on Australia’s coffee habits by Datamonitor predicts Australians will buy 23.4 million kg of coffee products in 2013.

Separate research from Ibisworld has indicated the cafe and coffee shop industry will grow to an

estimated $5 billion value in the next five years.

Mr Shadbolt said the coffee culture had emerged as a way to spend time with family or friends.

“You can take 15 minutes out of your day and enjoy a cup,” he said.

“It’s a joyful thing – a very social experience.”

Mr Shadbolt said one of the most appealing things about coffee was its affordability.

“It’s an enjoyable experience and it doesn’t cost a lot of money,” he said.

Mr Shadbolt said the variety of coffee styles available was one of the reasons the drink had enjoyed enduring popularity – the choice between soy or light milk, hazelnut or vanilla shot, mocha or traditional means there’s something that will appeal to everyone.

However, it’s a coffee made in Indonesia that Mr Shadbolt said was the strangest he’d ever heard of – made by using coffee beans that had been eaten by animals (civet cats) and then excreted. He said it sold for hundreds of dollars (per 500 g).

“It’s not something we’ll be selling!” v

Top left to right: Australians consume about 2.9 kg of coffee per capita annually.

Mark Shadbolt said coffee was a way to spend time with family and friends.

Australia has an increasing coffee culture.

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WINTER 2013

story AND PHOTOGRAPHY JENNA BISHOP

It’s a scene reminiscent of days gone by – the swish of full skirts as women twirl across the floor and the click of their heels as they walk through a sequence of steps.

put your

dancing shoes on A predecessor to modern ballroom dancing, old time dancing is a form of sequence dance, where couples perform the same steps at the same time and then repeat the sequence.

Introduced into Australia in the 1930s by English immigrants, old time dances are graceful and elegant with many variations and styles of classic dances.

Once an incredibly popular Saturday night entertainment option, the number of attendees has slowly dwindled as dancers become older.

The decline in numbers has seen numerous clubs across the region fold in the past two years, including dances at Kialla, Tallygaroopna and Congupna.

The St Augustine’s dance is one of the few dances still running in the Goulburn Valley and almost folded until interest from the current organisers saved it in 2008.

Dance committee president Robin Sharp said the dances were not only social gatherings, but also unintentional exercise programs.

Meryl Fitzgerald and John Mennen are regular attendees at the St Augustine’s dance.

“People don’t know how much exercise you get out of dancing,” he said.

For the love of dancing

Robin said dancing was something everyone could try, regardless of age or ability, and three young girls had attended the dance in May with their grandmother.

“It’s an enjoyable fitness kick.”

A love for dancing keeps Shepparton’s Meryl Fitzgerald and Swanpool’s John Mennen searching across the region for opportunities to dust off their dancing shoes.

The St Augustine’s dance is run as a not-for-profit organisation, with any extra funds raised at the dance donated to Goulburn Valley Hospice Care Service.

“We go wherever there’s a dance,” Meryl said.

The next dance will be at St Augustine’s Hall on August 3 at 7.30 pm with all welcome.

“We enjoy it.”

They regularly attend the St Augustine’s dance, as well as dances in Benalla, Echuca and Mulwala.

John and Meryl said it was the social aspect of the dances and the chance to meet new people that kept them coming back.

“It would be lovely to see a lot of younger ones come in, the older ones would be happy to help them learn,” Meryl said.

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WINTER 2013

Tickets cost $8. For more information, phone Ted Stephens on 5822 0424. v

Popular old time dances include: •

Pride of Erin

•

Mayfair Quickstep

•

Charmaine

•

Alpine Stroll

Queen of Hearts Rumba

•

Sallyanne Cha Cha

•

Sindy Swing

•

Balmoral Blues

•

Emmerdale Waltz

•

Evening Three Step

•

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turning old junk into

new treasures What was old is new again, but with a unique twist in the latest home decorating trend: upcycling.

Not to be confused with recycling, in which materials are broken down into base components and then made into something else, upcycling is all about re-purposing items and giving them a new and different life.

Although it seems to be a relatively new phenomenon, basic upcycling has been around since the 1930s, when families had few economic and material resources and were forced to become innovative.

Upcycling also stems from an increasing ‘greener’ conscience in society, as the upcycling process makes a positive impact on the environment by saving items destined for landfill and minimising the use of new raw materials.

A wooden sign welcomes you into Sophie Douglas’ house – but you would never know it was created from an old desk.

A self-confessed lover of upcycled and op-shop furniture, Sophie said at least 80 per cent of the objects and furniture in the house were items she’d either thrifted or revamped.

A $5 wooden ladder now serves as a pot plant display, loose socks have found themselves a new life as monkey and owl toys and old suitcases are now bedside tables.

When Sophie realised herself and her daughter needed new bed frames, she decided to make her own – out of upcycled wooden pallets.

Even junk mail isn’t safe: instead of recycling it, Sophie glued rolled pages together to create

Making it themselves

a unique paper bowl to keep keys and other miscellaneous items in.

One of her most innovative upcycling ideas was to turn an old wooden cable drum into a unique bedside table, complete with vintage rustic transformation after a bit of creative chalk painting.

Sophie said upcycling was about reusing items and being environmentally friendly – many of the furniture items she has upcycled were destined to be firewood.

“What a crying shame for anything to be burnt,” she said.

“We live in a throwaway society and it’s disgusting.”

Carol Fraser and Vicki Woodhouse’s cosy craft nook in Mooroopna is a haven of upcycled handcrafted goodies.

“dumpster divers” and chronic crafters, everything is salvageable according to Vicki and Carol.

Made It Myself features upcycled crafts made by more than 40 people across the Goulburn Valley who give old objects a new life and new purpose.

“Nothing is wasted when we’re around,” Carol said.

White crocheted doilies make an interesting and unique lampshade, soft toys have been crafted from old chenille blankets, while an old Warrnambool Woollen Mill blanket has been felted and turned into children’s shoes.

Even plastic bags can’t escape the upcycling trend, after being shredded and knitted into what will eventually become a plarn (plastic yarn) hand bag.

Self confessed charity bin

“We really love old stuff and we can’t bear to think of it not being used.”

Carol and Vicki said an awareness and interest in the upcycling phenomenon had definitely developed during the past year.

“People have become more aware of what they buy and where it comes from,” Vicki said.

Carol said she probably inherited the upcycling gene from her father, who grew up in the Depression era and taught her how to rag rug old material, among other upcycling techniques.

Clockwise from top left: Carol Fraser and Vicki Woodhouse with some of their upcycled crafts, including a giraffe which was formerly an old chenille blanket. Wall hangings made from old embroidery hoops. A lampshade fashioned from old doilies. Old sheets have a new life woven together as bathmats, bowls and coasters. Plastic bags are knitted into handbags. Booties made from Warrnambool Woollen Mills blankets.

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WINTER 2013

storIES JENNA BISHOP

Opposite top left to right: Sophie Douglas with her soft monkey and owl toys she creates from old socks.

Sophie used a metal fruit bowl to create an outdoor feature light.

A table leg and a saucer are now a unique candle holder.

Opposite bottom: A sign created from an old desk.

Above: Old pallets were used to create a bed base, with old suitcases as a bedside table. A wooden cable drum also serves as Sophie’s bedside table.

Left: Jacki created a tent out of an old sheet for Darci.

Above: One of Jacki’s favourite upcycled projects is her collection of succulents in old jars.

Old is beautiful

Little vintage treasures are scattered around Jacki Irwin’s house – but they’re most definitely not used in conventional ways.

Most of her finds are hunted down in op-shops and garage sales and then upcycled and given a new purpose.

For Jacki, who confessed she’s a “little bit of a greenie” recycling and re-using is almost a way of life.

“I love vintage things – there’s beauty in the older stuff,” she said.

“My other half always thinks it’s junk, but I see what it could be.”

Jacki has re-homed her collection of succulents in old jugs, cups and bowls, which makes an eclectic and unique backyard feature.

Teacups and saucers have new lives as homemade soy candles, an old wooden speaker cabinet now serves as a potato storage while a retro thermos is now a flower vase.

For her daughter Darci’s first birthday, Jacki upcyled decorations for the house, cutting out colourful pages from children’s books and turning them into bunting.

Clockwise from top left: Teacups are now home to handmade natural soy candles. Glass jars make excellent terrariums. Jacki transformed an old silver platter into a blackboard. Pages from illustrated children’s books were used as bunting decorations for Darci’s birthday. An old speaker cabinet houses Jacki’s potatoes. Vintage scales are used as fruit bowls.

Jacki’s passion for upcycling has also led her to work with Shepparton organisation Little Ship, which builds toys for children and furniture using upcycled and reclaimed materials.

Old better than new Vintage lover and crafter Caitlyn Phillip’s obsession with upcycling came after friends continually asked her to make upcycled crafts for them.

Caitlyn has been selling her upcycled goodies on online craft store Etsy for about 18 months, and began making the upcycled earrings from old buttons and other materials a year ago.

Caitlyn Phillips turns old buttons salvaged from opshops into earrings.

“I like vintage and old school things,” she said.

“It was really nice to be able to take older things and turn them into things people wear these days.”

Caitlyn said one of the most frustrating parts of her hobby was sorting through the big tubs of buttons in op-shops to find matching pairs.

“It often takes a lot of foraging around in little baskets,” she said.

For Caitlyn, who confessed to having many jars full of buttons, upcycling is all about finding a way to

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WINTER 2013

re-use things rather than buying new things.

She has also upcycled doilies into bunting and is currently experimenting with making clothes from old materials, including old bed sheets.

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markets

story JENNA BISHOP photography JULIE MERCER

market in focus Violet Town Market

Where: Recreation Reserve, Tulip St, Violet Town When: Second Saturday of each month Time: 8.30 am to 1 pm Phone: 0416 233 584 or email market@violettown.org.au

The mouth-watering smell of 40 food stalls wafting into your car means you’ve arrived at Violet Town Market, one of regional Victoria’s largest and most successful markets.

The market, held on the second Saturday of every month in rain, hail or shine, attracts about 4000 people to more than 200 stalls.

Since its inception more than 35 years ago, the market has become a vibrant, eclectic and classy hub of food, produce, homemade goodies and artistry.

Market co-ordinator deSales Turner said the market ran on a “make, bake or grow” philosophy, meaning many of the products were grown or crafted locally.

“Violet Town Market has a wonderful selection of produce, plants and craft ... there’s pretty much something for everyone,” she said.

Since May, the market has also featured a children’s entertainment area with free face-painting and storytelling and, for a small fee, children can play with animals including Flemish rabbits, cashmere goats, mini pigs and Finn sheep in the Hard Hill Farm petting zoo.

Ms Turner said the market had an emphasis on returning money into the community, with any profits donated to the Violet Town Action Group to help develop and support local initiatives.

children, and many of the younger children thought the life-like puppets were actually alive.

“They fall in love with them,” Ms Lawrence said.

Above left to right: Crowds browse the many items on offer at Violet Town Market. Heather Lawrence with some handmade Australian animal puppets.

“It’s a very magical thing to see.”

The sound of blues music draws people to Rodney Horsfall’s market stall, where he can be found playing an assortment of cigar box guitars.

deSale’s market tips: •

Bring a sturdy reusable bag to carry your purchases – because you’ll definitely buy something.

•

Wear good walking shoes so you can explore the whole market – it’s spread over a large area.

As a retirement hobby, the Euroa man has made about 40 guitars from recycled materials to sell at markets, with each instrument taking about a week to craft.

•

If you can’t find a specific stall or product, the information centre at the market entrance has a full exhibitor listing.

He said the guitars originated from southern America during the Great Depression of the 1920s, when the rich would throw out cigar boxes and poorer people would make musical instruments out of them.

•

Come with an empty stomach and eat your way across the market for breakfast or lunch.

•

Come and visit the market as an outing for yourself or your family and enjoy the lovely products and produce.

Mr Horsfall discovered cigar box guitars while on holiday in Queensland, and when his wife Mary offered to buy him one, he decided he could make his own.

“They’ve got a rich sound and you generally play them with a slide,” he said.

“It’s quite an incredible sound.”

She said tin rattlers for local organisations were also welcomed at the market, where a tin rattle for the Boho Fire Brigade raised more than $4800 in February.

Violet Town Market regular stallholder Heather Lawrence, from NSW’s Secret Gully Puppets, said the market had a variety of great stalls.

“It has a wonderful range of local produce, but there’s also interesting handmade things and a delicious range of food,” she said.

Secret Gully Puppets sells a range of Australian animal-based puppets, including sugar gliders, kangaroos, bilbies, echidnas, wombats and koalas.

Rodney Horsfall entertains passers-by with one of his cigar box guitars.

Ms Lawrence said the puppets were a hit with

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WINTER 2013

Chicken Breast, stuffed with bacon, shallots, olives, peppers & pesto, with roasted vegetables & romesco sauce

good food in good company and much more...

Café-Bar-Restaurant Having a reputation for delicious food and excellent service makes the Parklake a popular dining destination.

Enjoy a modern Australian menu seven days a week for breakfast, lunch or dinner and everything in between.

Dine indoors in the stylish and comfortable surroundings, or enjoy a meal on the terrace

overlooking Lake Victoria and surrounding parklands.

It is the perfect place to catch up with friends for a latte after lunch, or to enjoy a cocktail before the sun goes down.

The Parklake Café-Bar-Restaurant is open from 7 am until late (closed Sunday nights).

For table reservations please call 5821 5822.

Café-Bar-Restaurant All-day dining in a great relaxing atmosphere.

Function & Wedding Venue Bring your function to life at the Parklake in Shepparton.

With stylish function rooms, superior customer service and a delicious range of menus to choose from, you can be confident that every last detail will be taken care of.

The Parklake boasts five function rooms, catering for smaller groups or large gatherings seating up to 250 people. The team of highly skilled staff pride themselves on meeting your

individual requests and budget.

Your experience can be further enhanced by access to discounted accommodation for your travelling guests.

Being centrally located with stunning views of Lake Victoria and surrounding parklands, the Parklake is the perfect venue for your next occasion.

To discuss your function requirements please contract Audrey Ash on 5821 5822.

Function Room 250 guest capacity, perfect for your next event.

481 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5821 5822 www.parklake.com.au

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destinations Hides Bakery’s Emma Osborne with some of the bakery’s fresh meal options.

TAKE A DRIVE AND

go bakery browsing

Hides

Bake

ry

Tatura Hot Bread staff display the baked goods.

There’s nothing better than hopping in the car on a miserable winter’s day to search for new adventures and favourite places.

Combine this with one of winter’s indulgent food groups, bakery food, and you’ll find yourself on a rural bakery trail.

Our Home has put together a guide to some of the tempting ‘village’ bakeries within an hour’s drive of Shepparton.

a Hot Tatur

NORTH

as the pies and foccacias.

Brereton’s Bakery & Coffee Lounge 20 Blake St, Nathalia Phone: 5866 2466 Open: 6 am to 5.30 pm weekdays, 6 am to 1.30 pm on Saturdays and 8 am to 2 pm on Sundays.

Strathy Hot Bread 41 Main St, Strathmerton Phone: 5874 5398 Open: 6 am to 6 pm every day.

64 Meiklejohn St, Numurkah Phone: 5862 1790 Open: 7 am to 4 pm weekdays and 8 am to 2 pm on Saturdays.

Brereton’s Bakery & Coffee Lounge is a family owned bakery in Nathalia and Numurkah with specialty home-baked goods.

Try: The bakery’s pies, especially the Angus beef pie.

Ambience Bakery and Cafe 46 High St, Cobram Phone: 5871 1560 Open: 6 am to 5 pm weekdays and 6 am to 4 pm on weekends.

Find fresh, handmade goodies which are all made on the premises at Ambience Bakery and Cafe.

Try: Some of the bakery’s winter warmers such

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Bread

Strathy Hot Bread is a gold medal winner for its pies and also has a large range of freshly baked pastries, sausage rolls, cakes, slices and sandwiches.

Try: Bee stings are popular – a sweet dough with a creamy custard filling topped with almonds.

SOUTH Murchison Bakery and Tea Rooms 39 Stevenson St, Murchison Phone: 5826 2336 Open: 7 am to 5 pm weekdays and 8 am to 4 pm on weekends and public holidays.

Rushworth Bakery Cafe 13 High St, Rushworth Phone 5856 1828 Open: 6 am to 5.30 pm weekdays and 6 am to 4 pm on weekends and public holidays.

Rushworth Bakery Cafe is a haven for those with a sweet tooth or those looking for a winter warmer pie.

The bakery, owned by David and Nicky Chillingsworth, runs with the motto: ‘A treasure for your tastebuds’.

David said there was a huge array of baked goods to try and products were continually changing depending on the tastes of the Rushworth community.

“I get bored making the same thing,” he said.

After suggestions from players at the Rushworth Football Club, David also developed a lamb souvlaki pie, which has become one of the bakery’s popular items during the past three years.

Spacious with a river view, Murchison’s Bakery and Tea Rooms has an extensive range of savoury and sweet treats.

In addition to the sweet things, David said the bakery had several signature pies, including chunky pepper, chicken satay and chicken curry pies.

Try: Chocolate éclairs are popular or a chicken parma pie.

Try: White chocolate and raspberry mud muffins.

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WINTER 2013

COMPILED BY JENNA BISHOP Rushworth Bakery Cafe owner and baker David Chillingsworth with some of the bakery’s popular treats.

Strathmerton Nathalia

Echuca

Mooroopna Tatura

Elmore

Rushworth

Cobram

Shepparton Benalla

Murchison

Nagambie

Nagambie Bakery and Coffee Lounge 333 High St, Nagambie Phone: 5794 2414 Open: 6 am to 5.30 pm weekdays and 6 am to 3.30 pm on weekends.

A lovely, old-style bakery in the heart of Nagambie, the Bakery and Coffee Lounge has plenty of fresh baked goodies.

Try: A vanilla slice or a chocolate éclair with fresh cream.

EAST Hides Bakery 111-115 Bridge St, Benalla Phone: 5762 2324 Open: 6.30 am to 5.30 pm on weekdays and 6.30 am to 3 pm on weekends.

Benalla’s Hides Bakery is famous for its winter warmers, especially the pies. The bakery also makes different kinds of soups in the winter months.

Try: The pumpkin or chicken, bacon, potato and leek pies, spinach rolls and lemon cheesecakes.

Bertalli’s Alpine Breads 51 Bridge St, Benalla Phone: 5762 1200 Open: 7 am to 5.30 pm weekdays, 7 am to 2 pm on Saturdays and 8 am to 2 pm on Sundays.

Artisan bakery Bertalli’s Alpine Breads is focused on creating innovative products.

The bakery sells a full range of traditional and artisan baked goods and also supplies wholesale products to grocery chains like Coles and Woolworths.

Andrew Bertalli, who runs the third-generation bakery, has always had a passion for baking and developing new products.

“I’m very big on research and development of new lines of bread, especially using spelt flour, quinoa and different types of grain,” he said.

One of his latest innovations is bread baked from sprouted grains, which Mr Bertalli said made the bread easier to digest and gave it higher vitamin content.

“It’s probably one of the healthiest breads on the market.”

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Andrew said bakeries were integral parts of the community with employment opportunities, passing on artisan bread knowledge and supporting local sporting teams.

Beechworth Bakery

“I’m very big on apprentices and training young kids how to bake bread,” he said.

Day.

Try: The specialty sourdough breads.

WEST The Elmore Bakery 104 Railway Terrace, Elmore Phone: 5432 6558 Open: 6.30 am to 5 pm weekdays and 6.30 am to 4 pm on weekends.

The Elmore Bakery is renowned for its awardwinning pies and has plenty of fresh healthy options in addition to the classics.

Try: The pizza, lamb and rosemary, plain, bushman’s and Mexican pies.

Tatura Hot Bread 130 Hogan St, Tatura Phone: 5824 1267 Open: 5.45 am to 5.30 pm weekdays, 6 am to 2 pm on Saturdays and 8 am to 2 pm on Sundays.

If there’s one thing you should know about Tatura Hot Bread, it’s the vanilla slice.

513 High St, Echuca Phone: 1300 233 784 Open: 6 am to 6 pm every day except Christmas

Relax at the two-storey Beechworth Bakery overlooking the Campaspe River, with live music on Sunday afternoons to go with your bakery treats.

Try: One of the great pies or a bee sting.

Mooroopna Bakery 124 McLennan St, Mooroopna Phone: 5825 3100 Open: 7 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 2.30 pm on weekends.

Located in a former bank, the Mooroopna Bakery is home to some of Greater Shepparton’s tastiest baked treats.

Try: The chunky meat pie, winner of the Official Great Aussie Pie competition.

Billy’s Bakehouse and Tearooms 52 McLennan St, Mooroopna Phone: 5825 2649 Open: 6 am to 4.30 pm weekdays and 7 am to

The bakery, owned by Jeff and Glenda Alexander, has been making the slice for more than 14 years, with the slice winning its first award placing in 2004.

2 pm on weekends.

Since then, the slice was named the best in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2011.

using fresh ingredients.

“That’s our biggest seller,” Glenda said.

However, the cooler weather has meant an increase in winter warmer-style food.

“Pie sales have gone through the roof since the weather cooled down,” she said.

The bakery is also renowned for its award-winning pies, notably the chicken, cranberry and brie cheese pie.

Glenda said bakeries were a central part of a community, and were often the first place people went when arriving in a town.

“It’s a central point for people to go to for food, they’ve got a lot of variety for people to have,” she said.

Try: The award-winning vanilla slice.

The home-style goods at Billy’s Bakehouse and Tearooms are all freshly baked on the premises Try: The award-winning vanilla slice, the corned beef and white sauce pie and the beef and Guinness pie.

Closer to home in Shepparton: •

Degani Bakery Café

•

Baking Dough Bakery

•

Freeman’s Bakery Cafe

•

Golden Star Hot Bread

•

Higgins Bakery

•

Fairleys Cafe

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interview JENNA BISHOP photography BIANCA MIBUS

journey of life

with Janene Burt

The indefatigable passion Janene and Trevor Burt have for the community of Murchison and its bakery has seen the couple through 18 years of good times.

However, at 11.30 pm on May 6, 2003, Janene and Trevor saw something that no-one ever wants to see – their business, Murchison Bakery and Tearooms, completely engulfed by flames and surrounded by 70 firefighters.

Despite the fact the 150-year-old building was almost gutted – the only thing that survived was the bakehouse – the Burt family had the bakery running again within six weeks.

A decade later, the integral part of the Murchison community is flourishing and the fire is firmly in the past for Janene.

Janene Burt relaxes at the rebuilt bakery and tea rooms.

Framed photos (left) are the only visible reminder of the fire.

I never imagined we would run a bakery.

I think that was because it was my husband’s dream – and of course I was more than happy to go along with it. I guess too, our in-laws made it possible – we would never have been able to do it on our own, financially, without either sets of parents, really.

We came to Murchison with (Robert and Judy Burt, Trevor’s parents) 18 years ago and were originally only going to be here for a couple of years, and like the story goes, we thought we’d see how we go. We loved it that much, and it’s such a beautiful town to raise your children in and to work in, that we decided to stay on.

We were in our early twenties when we bought the bakery. We had one child, a two-year-old, and obviously it’s a seven-day-week business and was open every day of the year when we first came over. It was a lot of hard work, and our in-laws put in a lot of hard work on the weekends, so that I could still be a hands-on mother as well as work.

As time went on and the kids went to school, it got a little easier. My husband and I would tag team – he would sleep during the day and get up, and I would come to work when he woke up. The kids really loved the fact that mum and dad have a bakery, there’s food whether I’m home or not!

It’s really funny – we don’t have baked food at home.

Like a mechanic’s car is never serviced and a painter’s house always needs painting, we never have fresh bread at home! And then we will say, ‘Well, you were there last’, and I’ll say ‘Well, you baked it!’ It’s really quite funny! For a family, we don’t really have a sweet tooth, it’s more our teenaged children in the bain marie in the kitchen with the hot fried food – because we do burgers and schnitzels and all that sort of stuff. It’s very handy for them!

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My favourite thing about running a bakery in Murchison is the people: you know their name and you’ve developed a bit of a relationship ... you get to learn quite a bit about people and develop some lovely acquaintances.

The fire was just pure panic. I don’t actually think straightaway there was a thought, it was just hysteria.

Our phone was ringing at home; it was 11.20 or 11.15 at night. My husband and children were in bed, so I answered the phone, and it was the alarm going off. I woke my husband up, and we thought someone was down there. I don’t know what I was going to do, but I jumped in the car with him – my natural instincts were: ‘I’m coming; you’re not going by yourself.’ We got to the roundabout and it was one of those foggy nights and we could see all this smoke and flames and we drove up a bit closer and I was just screaming, ‘Oh my god, it’s us’, and us it was. The fire brigade siren was going off by that stage but what seemed like an eternity – it was probably three or four or five minutes, tops – and they were here. That five minutes was terrible.

The amazing job the fire brigade did was that it didn’t spread through the rest of the building, they were able to save the pub and it didn’t get down as far as the petrol station. It could have been so much worse.

I guess the fire at the time was just absolutely devastating, the building was so old and there was so much history there that I felt a real sense of loss for the community. It was an electrical switch in a fan that caused the fire so we were totally just blown away by it. We were really underinsured as well, 60 per cent of people are. My father-in-law’s a builder, and he dropped everything for well over a year and got us up and running, along with a lot of community members. v

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