Artist’s advice for inspiration? Take a hike A SELF confessed latecomer to hiking, Red Hill artist Michael Leeworthy managed to turn the restrictions of COVID-19 into positives: publishing three books on walking around the Mornington Peninsula. Weaving narratives derived from his own observations and research Leeworthy has colourfully illustrated each book with his own paintings, many featuring creatures that can be encountered on the various trails. “What started as something to do during COVID-19 became a true labour of love. Having so many walking trails at my front door was a blessing,” Leeworthy said. “When we were allowed to go further than five kilometres, I took the opportunity to explore some trails I had not explored before. “I took my son Jesse on a few, and he was impressed with the old boy.” Leeworthy said many of the walks covered in his books had “never been documented before” and he decided to include tips on “responsible and safe behaviour when hiking in the bush”. Admitting to having “a couple of phobias”, he also provides information about snakes and bats. “The more information people have, the better. On average, three people die of snake bites each year,” he said. “Surprisingly, 226 people die from falling off ladders each year.” His latest book includes a section on powerful owls. “One great joy is seeing hikers carrying my book and not looking lost when I am out walking,” Leeworthy said, before describing having “an actual author moment” when being asked to sign a copy of one of his books while sitting at a cafe. “She asked me to sign her copy. I nearly cracked up but stayed nonchalant and signed the book for her,” he said. His latest book, 12 Hidden Walks on the Mornington Peninsula, includes 20 original paintings and illustrations and the walks range from four to 30 kilometres. “I had thought three walks books would be enough, but I have found two more tracks recently,” Leeworthy said. “I may consider doing a coffee table book of my favourite walks illustrated in watercolour when I have time. Who knows? In the meantime, I have some children's books to finish.” Leeworthy’s 12 Hidden Walks on the Mornington Peninsula completes the trilogy with 12 Walks from the Red Hill South Post Office and 12 Coastal and Wetlands Walks. To find out where to buy Michael Leeworthy’s books email michaellee48@bigpond.com or visit his gallery at 133 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South. Keith Platt
Mornington
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Prior fire warning PROPERTY owners should let the CFA know about any planned open air burning to avoid unnecessary fire alarms being raised with fire brigades. To give prior warning to the CFA about a planned fire call 1800 668 511.
Members sought THE Rosebud Lions Club is looking for new members over the age of 21 that would like to help raising money and helping on community projects. The club has been reduced to seven members since the COVID-19 pandemic. This club meets on Tuesday mornings. Call membership chairman David on 5986 2261 or the club president on 0418 322 315.
Scones at Hastings THE next Scones on a Hastings will be held at the Hastings Bowls Club on Marine Parade on Friday 3 November between 10am and 11.30am. All welcome.
Picnic performance
ARTIST Michael Leeworthy and the cover of his latest illustrated guide to walks on the Mornington Peninsula. Picture: Yanni
THE Southern Peninsula Concert Band will perform at a picnic and in the Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens from 2pm on Saturday 18 November. Cost is $30 and on arrival at the gardens in Civic Reserve, Mornington ticket holders will be given a picnic box. Numbers are limited to 50. Tickets at: eventbrite.com.au/e/a-picnic-in-therose-gardens-with-the-southern-pentickets-736947197907
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THEY SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS IN YOUR COMMUNITY! Mornington News
31 October 2023
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