Mornington Peninsula Magazine January 2023

Young Peninsula scientists make important dolphin discovery

In 2005 a remarkable event occurred. A tiny group of common dolphins came into Port Phillip and decided to stay. It was remarkable because, everywhere else in the world, common dolphins live in the open ocean. Almost 20 years later, this small group of dolphins has grown to more than 100 individuals, with multiple generations being successfully born and raised inside the bay. Piecing together an understanding of these remarkable dolphins combines regular research surveys and painstaking analysis by the Dolphin Research Institute team. A new Research Fellowship initiative in 2022 has propelled our understanding of these dolphins to another level, also giving two very passionate young scientists a step towards their dream careers in marine science. The institute’s inaugural Research Fellows, Ella Hutchinson and Leanne Nguyen, trawled through the archive of more than 100,000 images of dolphin fins to unlock new insights into our dolphins.

The institute’s researchers have long suspected that not all 100 dolphins stay inside the bay year-round and that some transient individuals come in from Bass Strait for brief visits. However, there was no proof until Leanne and Ella discovered a dolphin called

Traveller. Traveller was first recorded off Phillip Island in 2016 and had not been resighted until October 2021, when it was photographed off Mornington in Port Phillip. It was then sighted again inside the bay late last October.

For the past 17 years, the institute’s researchers have monitored and catalogued common dolphins in Port Phillip and around the Phillip Island coast by identifying individual animals from photos of their unique dorsal fins – much like how we identify humans through our fingerprints. Traveller is the first dolphin to be matched in both the Port Phillip and Phillip Island catalogues, providing evidence of movement between the bay and northern Bass Strait.

This discovery validates researchers’ suspicions and indicates that the Port Phillip common dolphin community is not isolated and is part of a broader population out in Bass Strait. This new understanding is excellent news and critical knowledge for environmental managers, as a larger community provides greater resilience against pollution and future environmental change.

Studying dolphins is not easy due to their high mobility and the logistics of working in the marine environment. To overcome this, the institute’s scientists use a combination of methods to help them piece together the puzzle of Victoria’s dolphins. When weather permits, boat surveys allow researchers to photograph dolphin dorsal fins for later analysis to identify individual animals. Sorting and analysing thousands of photos with a fine-tooth comb to identify subtle differences between individual fins is painstaking, often taking hundreds of hours to complete.

Dolphins are at the top of the food chain, so understanding their success is crucial to understanding the health of our bays and coastal environments. Without the institute’s long-term research programs, which span 31 years, we would not know enough to protect them.

You can support Ella and Leanne and the Dolphin Research Institute’s work by becoming a supporter of the Adopt-A-Dolphin or Adopt-A-Whale programs. Find out more at www.dolphinresearch.org.au

ELLA HUTCHINSON AND LEANNE NGUYEN

Traveller, pictured with a calf in Port Phillip, provided evidence indicating the bay’s resident common dolphin community is part of a broader population in Bass Strait.

Dolphin Research Institute Research Fellows Ella Hutchinson and Leanne Nguyen.

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Matilda warms up for a shot

The federal and state elections may be over but there’s still important votes to be cast this month in the Triple J Hottest 100. Get ready to vote local for the Mornington Peninsula’s own Matilda Pearl and her shortlisted single Nice To Know Ya, with voting open for the popular annual music poll conducted by Australia's national youth radio station. Known for the rare combination of possessing an amazing voice as well as being hardworking and as humble as they come, Matilda has been taking part in songwriting and recording programs since she was 14. After completing VCE in 2020, she was promptly signed with Unified Management, under the label Sweat It Out and with Lonely Lands booking agency, and launched into songwriting sessions with artists, writers and producers in Melbourne. In mid-2021 she was paired with Tim Tan and Keeks, who are now her main collaborators.

“We got together and wrote Nice To Know Ya in two days,” Matilda says. “It was such a cathartic process because I was writing this song about a bunch of people from my high school who had been, you know, not the best, and then I ended up making two of my closest friends and collaborators through the process. We released the song and Triple J obviously took note of it and they've added it to the short list. It's a big step

at the Hottest 100

for me because it's another goal checked off. It’d be cool in the next few years to try and make the 100.”

When it comes to what 2023 has in store, Matilda is excited about her plans. “I’m doing a lot of songwriting sessions with other artists and collaborators because it's such a good way to network and get to know people within the industry. I'm really loving the opportunity to write for other artists because it keeps it interesting. As an artist, only writing for yourself can get a little bit stressful and almost limiting at times, but getting to write for different genres and kinds of artists with different stories is really fun.”

Not one to waste a spare minute, Matilda is also studying a Bachelor of Communication (Professional Communication) at RMIT, which encompasses media, PR, journalism and advertising – all useful skills for a career in the music industry whether you’re in front of or behind the microphone.

Next year Matilda is looking forward to performing a lot more live gigs after the frustrating stop-start of live music over the past few years. She’ll also continue to develop as a songwriter. “At the moment I'm doing a lot of toplining – adding lyrics and melodies – for dance and disco artists, which I really enjoy, but I'm keen to start working with some acoustic/singer-songwriter artists too.”

Now it’s your turn to get behind one of the Peninsula’s most promising young singers and vote for her single Nice To Know Ya in the Triple J Hottest 100 – just head to hottest100.abc.net.au. The list will be unveiled on January 28 during Triple J’s Hottest Weekend show. You can also follow Matilda on Instagram @matilda_ pearl, on TikTok @matildapearl and on Facebook @ matildapearlmusic

SARAH HALFPENNY

Photo: Liam Kelly

Thousands prepare to take the plunge at Portsea Swim Classic

There are countless open water swimming competitions around the world, but the 37th continual running of the iconic Portsea Swim Classic is up there with the best of them when it comes to challenge and allure. The event continues to draw crowds each summer for the spectacular two-day event.

The Portsea Classic will be held over the weekend of January 20-21, opening on the Friday with the Portsea Bay to Surf, where participants take part in one of two twilight adventure runs – 9km or 4.5km – or a 4.5km walk, traversing the picturesque Point Nepean National Park. On the Saturday, the Portsea Swim Classic will take place from Quarantine Station.

One of the Mornington Peninsula’s summer signature events, it draws a plethora of industry leaders, sports stars, and Victoria’s top ocean and pool swimmers. One such person is former AFL premiership footballer Campbell Brown, who signed up for the 9km run this year after completing the swim in the past.

“My dad lives in Portsea and I've been going down there for probably 25 years over summer; I’m a regular down there,” Campbell says. “My goal for the new year is to get back into a bit of fitness. Probably like a lot of people through COVID, there was a bit of motivation lost. I’m looking at doing a few things later in the year, like climbing Mt Aconcagua in Argentina, so this is the perfect little kick-start for summer and to get some kilometres in the legs. My son’s pretty active – he’s five – so he might even want to try and do some of the run himself.”

In the Bay to Surf, 1000 competitors will tackle one of three events through the national park. The 4.5km adventure walk starts at Jarman Oval, following roads and tracks that take competitors past London Bridge and along the Farnsworth track to finish at Portsea Surf Life Saving Club. This is followed by the 4.5km and 9km adventure runs, which take runners along the national park’s scenic coastal roads and trails to finish at the Portsea SLSC.

The next day, about 3000 competitors will take to the water for several events including the Portsea Swim Classic, the Peninsula’s most popular ocean water event, racing over the Classic 1.5km distance or in the longer 2.5km Gold event. There is also the 500m Junior Swim Classic for children aged 7-11, the all-female 500m Tribe relay for teams of three, and the Dash 4 Cash sprint.

Having attempted to swim the English Channel in 2015 before weather forced the swim to be abandoned, Campbell is still considering taking part in the 2023 Portsea Swim Classic. “I do enjoy my open water swimming and it might be a good little recovery session the day after the 9km run to jump into the swim as well, but I haven't locked that in yet.”

The annual event, which is entirely volunteer-led by members of the Portsea Surf Life Saving Club, is the major fundraiser for the club. All proceeds go directly to supporting the club’s volunteer capabilities for training, lifesaver development, and vital equipment.

“Going to Portsea for the holidays for most of my life, I know how important the surf lifesaving club is, keeping everyone safe down at the back beach, and the Bronze Medallion program they put forward for the kids,” Campbell says. “These events are an integral part of their fundraising, and they’re really good for anyone that wants to do something healthy. It's a beautiful, picturesque run and a family-friendly afternoon and evening. It’s certainly a good social weekend.”

For more information about the Portsea Swim Classic and to register, go to www. portseasurf.com.au/portsea-swim-classic/

SARAH HALFPENNY

Former Hawthorn premiership player Campbell Brown is taking part in this month’s Portsea Swim Classic.

Come together at The Briars for a day of Deep Listening

Cultural entertainment, bush foods, guided tours, games and workshops are among the attractions at Our Songlines’ third Our Survival Day on Thursday, January 26.

Our Songlines is a 100 per cent Aboriginal-owned and women-led organisation that is passionate about making Indigenous culture accessible to First Nations and allies in a supportive, safe environment. It is hosted annually at the picturesque The Briars in Mount Martha on Bunurong land of the Boon Wurrung language group within the Kulin Nation, among indigenous plants, trees, birds, and habitat for wildlife.

Our Survival Day focuses on Indigenous education, cultural entertainment, food and sustainability through the theme Deep Listening. You will feel the connection as soon as you walk on to Bunurong land: be welcomed by the trees, the birds, the First Nations musical voices, the smell of indigenous bush foods, friends enjoying picnics and playing games, cultural workshops, dancing, families of diverse backgrounds and many activities to participate in at your leisure. This is an all-inclusive supportive space, so if you have any requirements you’d like us to

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accommodate, please do not hesitate to reach out to us by email at Hello@oursonglines.com

The day will begin with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by Bunurong Traditional Owners Jill and Josh West. Our Master of Ceremonies for the day will be the incredible Jony Berry. A man of Palawa and Portuguese heritage, Jony was the first Aboriginal person to represent Australia at the Mr World competition, using his platform as a model and performer to advocate for causes close to his heart.

Headlining our community festival is Mitch Tambo, supported by Dallas Woods, Jalgany, Caution and Fresh Verse. Local Aboriginal men Lionel and Sean from Living Culture will be your guides to the secrets of The Briars, focusing on bush food, medicinal plants and traditional understanding. Limited bookings for sessions are available. Local gathering place Nairm Marr Djambana will have fun creative activities for the young ones and the young at heart.

Our 2022 event was completely carbon-positive, and this year we intend expanding our green initiatives to ensure we leave the land better than when we started. Our Survival Day vendors, artists, stallholders and workshops will be caring for Country by using environmentally responsible packaging and materials, and saying no to

single-use plastics. We will also be planting trees to offset our carbon emissions from the event. You will find bins – including composting and recycling – around the site with our aim to reduce our waste as much as we can.

What would a community event be without getting to take home some deadly cultural creations from some of our favourite entrepreneurs? The Deadly Wears clothing brand is the inspiration of two cousins, Hollie and Katherine, with support from Katherine’s partner Jakob. Katherine and Hollie are two proud Gunaikurnai, Monero Ngarigo women who live on Gunaikurnai Country. Our Dilly Bag connects allies directly to Indigenous-owned and led products, events and information. Jala Jala Treats is a business dedicated to the celebration of Australia’s native flavours. First Peoples health and well-being services will be on hand; incredible balms and oils will be available from Wunyun, an Aboriginal and Indian healer; Mob Melts will bring you a range of scented candles and melts; and Stefanopolips’ arts and homewares and Burndap Collective’s handmade jewellery will be available to buy.

Our Survival Day is on Thursday, January 26. Tickets are on sale at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/our-survivalday-2023-tickets-461628201377.

KAYLA CARTLEDGE, Gurindji woman

Survival Day at The Briars It’s all happening at The Briars on January 26 Yeah Man is here Tootgarook father of three Ben is committed to connecting men in his community.

Blessing of the waters

Get down to Frankston Pier on January 6

Know your farmer

Cape Schanck’s Barragunda Estate has become a farming collective

CUSTOMER RELATIONS & SALES

Molly is back February, molly@mpmag.com.au Anna 0401 598 613 anna@mpmag.com.au

Chendelle 0412 030 802 chendelle@mpmag.com.au JOURNALISTS & FEATURE WRITERS

Nikki Fisher, Lisa Walton, Drew Cooper, Richard Cornish, Maurie Hutchinson, Nerida Langcake, Josie Jones, Stephanie Johnson, Sarah Halfpenny

Summer Fun We explore what is hot this Summer so you can support local Your Stars for 2023 Stephanie Johnson gives us what’s in store for the new year

Check out Wilkinson’s world

Pre-pandemic, folk-pop-punkpoet Alana Wilkinson emerged as one of the most loved new artists on the Australian music scene. Read what she is up to now.

Arts Events Leisure

For a wrap-up of what to see this Summer, check out our arts section

Markets, Food and glorious Drinks

Read about local deliciousness you can sample this Summer

Left: Flinders Fringe Festival, a new three-day event, will take over the coastal village of Flinders from February 17-19. For more information on what you can expect, see page 96

Top Centre: Everywhen Artspace’s January show is a carefully curated selection of artworks and sculptures by leading artists from across Australia. Further exhibition details on page 90

Top Right: Smith & Sons have a lifelong passion for building and renovating. Head to pages 136-137 to see some of their recent work.

Bottom Centre: This summer, head to Bass & Flinders Distillery to enjoy their gin high tea. See page 129 for all details.

Bottom Right: Mornington Peninsula resident Matilda Pearl is hoping to make Triple J’s Hottest 100 with her short-listed single Nice To Know Ya. Read more about Matilda on page 7.

Chisholm program gives young parents a second chance at education

An unexpected arrival can severely affect a young person’s education, often resulting in unfinished schooling and the inability or lack of desire to further their education beyond Year 12. But one TAFE’s innovative program is giving young mums and dads a real chance to finish their secondary education. Chisholm Institute’s Learn Engage Connect VCE Vocational Major Year 11 & Year 12 Parents Program is tailored to meet the needs of young parents aged 15-25 who have disengaged from secondary education. Eligible participants must have a child up to four years old, or be

expecting a child.

The program sees parent and child sharing the same learning space two days a week, with the support of a VCE VM educator, an early childhood educator and a family support worker. This initiative is co-funded by Anglicare’s Communities For Children, FMPLLEN and Chisholm Institute.

“The benefits of a program like this are huge for a young parent,” says family support worker Maree Radford. “It gives young people the opportunity to complete their VCE VM qualification at either Year 11 or Year 12 level.”

Each participant is funded for two years of attendance in the program.

Elise, who became pregnant in Year 12, says without the program she probably wouldn’t have finished school. “There is so much extra support that’s needed when you’re trying to finish school with a baby,” Elise says. “The Young Parents Program provided the support I needed, with a childcare worker and a support worker who guided me through it all.”

Elise, whose son is now three, successfully completed her Year 12 through the program and is undertaking a Certificate III in Pathology Collection at Chisholm. She hopes to gain a qualification in nursing.

For more information about the Young Parents Program at Chisholm, visit www.chisholm.edu.au/youngparents

CHISHOLM INSTITUTE

A: Frankston, Dandenong, Berwick, Cranbourne, Rosebud and Wonthaggi campuses

T: 1300 244 746

W: www.chisholm.edu.au

FB: ChisholmInstitute

INSTA: chisholm_institute

Big crowds expected for Greek celebration

If you’re at Frankston Pier on January 6 and wondering why there are hundreds of people gathering, then you’re not part of the Greek community who know the gathering is for one of Greece’s holiest and most sacred celebrations, Blessing of the Waters.

This day marks the Christmas holidays in Greece officially coming to an end with the Festival of Light, also known as the Epiphany. The Epiphany ceremonies begin with a religious service at the church then parishioners walk together to their nearby pier. The Blessing of the Waters ceremony sees priests in ports around Greece and here in Frankston and Rye throw a Holy Cross into the sea,

then parishioners jump into the water to retrieve the cross.

This year the Rev Father Doukas Georgalas, of the Greek Orthodox Parish Community in Frankston, will be joined by Archbishop Makarios from Sydney and Bishop Kyriakos from Melbourne to throw the cross from the pier. The person who retrieves the cross receives a blessing from Father Doukas and is given a gold cross necklace said to bring good luck for the year ahead.

Frankston was the first place in Australia to engage in the Christian ritual. The ceremony is usually also held at Rye Pier but won’t take place this year due to the pier reconstruction.

NIKKI FISHER

Michelle hopes more women will get hooked on fishing

Michelle Brittain has been saltwater fishing off the Mornington Peninsula since she was six. The 38-year-old was taught by her father and grandfather and learnt there is more to the sport than just hooking a fish. “My grandfather was a very relaxed man,” Michelle says. “Through fishing he taught me patience, to be quiet and tune in to what’s around me. As a teenager I’d hire a little yellow boat from Kananook Creek. You didn’t have to have a boat licence; you could just hire them and head out fishing.”

Michelle’s passion for the adventure of fishing continues. In fact, she has become a leader for Women In Recreational Fishing and is inspiring and supporting other women to take up the sport. WIRF was created in 2017 by the Victorian Fisheries Authority. Through its Facebook community, WIRF provides a place for women to share fishing knowledge and discover recreational fishing events. WIRF welcomes women of all skill levels to join.

Through WIRF, 10 women including Michelle have been given the chance to take part in a leadership program scholarship to develop leadership skills and contribute to the future of women in fishing. A network of Peninsula WIRF groups is being created. “Two leaders choose a location to fish and then the leaders guide women with their fishing or the species they’re targeting. We also run events and tackle shop nights. It’s educational and community focused.”

For beginners, Michelle recommends first heading to their nearest tackle shop. “The tackle shop will have a weather report, they know what’s biting and can give you a guide on what you need. The Victorian Fisheries website has lots of information on places to fish as well as information on different species. Make sure you educate yourself before going to an area on what species will be around. Even just walking along the pier and having a look at what people are catching and what they’re using helps.”

When it comes to equipment, Michelle says the quality of fishing line matters. “Good-quality line has good resistance; you’ll be able to catch your fish more easily and it’s not as likely to snap, which is better for the environment too.”

Sustainability is important to Michelle and informs her approach to fishing. “We’re lucky in our local bays that we have the right grounds for a wide range of species to reside. The majority are sustainable; they breed well. Some people try to achieve a bag limit whereas to keep our stocks healthy I promote catching only what you need.”

You can find Michelle on Instagram @shells_saltliving_; to learn more about WIRF, go to @wirfnetwork; and visit the VFA website at www.vfa.vic.gov.au

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NIKKI FISHER

Peninsula MPs promise to fight hard for our region

Mornington and Hastings were two of seven seats that went down to the wire in last November’s Victorian election. When the dust settled, Chris Crewther had retained Mornington for the Liberals after a spirited challenge from Independent Kate Lardner, and Labor’s Paul Mercurio managed to hold off Liberal candidate Briony Hutton in Hastings. In Nepean, meanwhile, the Liberals’ Sam Groth had an easier time unseating Labor’s Chris Brayne.

Mr Crewther said he was “greatly humbled” by voters’ support. “The hard work starts now, and I'll advocate tooth and nail for you, our community, and Victorians. Our campaign was successful due to a strong grassroots campaign supported by many local volunteers, focused on hard work, face-to-face listening, and responding to community needs.

“Enhancing freedom and equality of opportunity, regardless of one's postcode, background, or socioeconomic situation, will be a key focus of mine. I’ll fight for Mornington District’s fair share. This includes advocating for investment in local schools, community and sporting organisations, Peninsula health care, roads, and public transport. Protecting and improving our local environment is also extremely important.

“I'm pleased that the State Government committed to an $11.7 million Mount Eliza North Primary School upgrade, a Mornington community battery, $50,000 for Fusion, $30,000 for Peninsula Home Hospice, and $15 million for Frankston Basketball Stadium, with many players from Mornington District. I'll be pushing to ensure that these commitments – plus projects like Emil Madsen Reserve's redevelopment, the new fitted-out pavilion for athletics and Mount Martha Soccer at Civic Reserve, Alexandra Park upgrades, fixing Mornington Soccer Club’s fields, and Frankston Hospital's redevelopment – go through no matter what.”

Mr Groth said he was honoured to have the opportunity

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Above: Post-election celebration for team Chris Crewther and his family; right, Sam Groth; bottom, Paul Mercurio

to represent Nepean in the Victorian Parliament. “I deeply appreciate the trust and faith the voters of Nepean have put in me to be a strong advocate for them.

“Nepean deserves its fair share of services and investment from the Victorian Government and I look forward to being a vocal, active and effective voice for my electorate in Parliament. I consistently campaigned for vital infrastructure, including the Rosebud Hospital and Jetty Rd overpass, throughout the election period and I look forward to continuing this.

“The southern Mornington Peninsula is unique, and I am dedicated to preserving and protecting it from overdevelopment and environmental degradation. I will work to ensure the Peninsula way of life is upheld and that government legislation is scrutinised for its impact on our area.

“While the outcome of the election state-wide was not what we hoped, we had a great result in Nepean and we should be proud of what our community could achieve when it came together for better representation in Parliament. I promise to repay the trust and faith the Nepean electorate has put in me and work every day to represent their priorities in our Parliament.”

Mornington Peninsula Magazine was unable to contact Mr Mercurio before deadline because of his much-publicised health issue. We wish him a speedy recovery and congratulate him, Mr Crewther and Mr Groth on their election wins.

Yeah, Man is here, man, if you ever need to talk

As feelings of isolation and disconnection rose during COVID lockdowns, Ben McDonald-Watson began to think. “If I’m feeling like this, I’m sure there are other blokes feeling the same way,” Ben says. “It dawned on me that apart from sporting groups and the pub, guys don’t have avenues like women do to connect and express themselves.”

Thinking about this gave Ben an idea. “I’d researched the benefits of connection and belonging in the pursuit of high performance in a corporate environment. I was comfortable having conversations around connection and belonging and how it relates to mental and physical well-being. So I started thinking maybe I should get a bunch of blokes together and try to have a conversation.”

Ben tested his idea with a couple of small gatherings of men. The overwhelmingly positive feedback confirmed he was on the right track. The Tootgarook resident and father of three was committed to connecting other men in his community and now had a fair idea of how, but first he sought some professional guidance from Australian organisation Tomorrow Man. Tomorrow Man has worked with more than 100,000 men and boys in the past six years in workshops that train men how to have better conversations, help themselves and their mates through tough times, and redefine a healthier version of masculinity. After sitting with facilitators from Tomorrow Man and developing a series of sessions on different topics to explore, Ben’s idea came to life as Yeah, Man.

The whole premise of Yeah, Man is for men to have a space to explore what’s made them who they are and to be able to tell their story. “We’re really constrained as blokes with our language, our ability to express ourselves and accurately label our emotions and feelings. We’re not great listeners either, so providing guys with some practical skills to be able to be better listeners is important too. If you know who you are, you know how to tell your story, and you’ve got someone who can listen to you, then you’ve just created meaningful human connection. And meaningful human connection is the antidote to so many challenges in life.”

The first two Yeah, Man sessions were held last October and November. “It’s really relaxed, an opportunity to be supported to share your story and chat to like-minded guys.” The main gatherings will be held every six weeks and the venue will rotate. Other opportunities to meet up between the main gatherings will be made too, such as the first community collaboration with Louey's Place in Rye where a blokes-only Pilates class was held in December.

Thanks to sponsorship from Peninsula Hot Springs, Searoad Ferries, and Peninsula Sotheby’s Real Estate, the facilitated gatherings are free to attend for men young and old. The next session will be held at Peninsula Hot Springs on Wednesday, February 1; RSVP at www.yeahman.au

If you own a business or have a community group and would like to talk about ways to help Yeah, Man become a permanent part of the Mornington Peninsula community, get in touch with Ben at www.yeahman.au or his Instagram page @yeahman_mp; for more about Tomorrow Man, go to www.tomorrowman.com.au

NIKKI FISHER

Your skin’s best friend this summer

Olieve & Olie’s handmade natural skincare is crafted here on the Mornington Peninsula, and they’ve got you sorted for healthy and glowing skin this summer. For more than 20 years, this family business has helped customers achieve healthier skin while supporting local suppliers. Utilising Australian extra virgin olive oil and other skin superfoods in their luxe products helps to boost hydration and healing benefits.

Olieve & Olie’s Hand & Body Wash will leave your skin feeling clean and soft. It provides a deep cleansing effect – crucial for removing sunscreen – while protecting and nourishing your skin. Choose from four lush scents and one fragrance-free option. This all-rounder product also makes for a lush shampoo and an enticing facial cleanser.

Be hydrated head to toe this summer with their Hand & Body Cream. Choose from a range of botanical fragrances that will ignite your senses. It’s a must-have moisturiser that can even be used for your face. Readily absorbed, their cream is abundant in antioxidants and vitamin E and is made from natural and organic oils to soothe and protect all skin types, including sensitive skin.

To achieve glowing skin, it’s suggested you exfoliate two to three times a week, as our bodies shed skin cells every minute of every day. When we don’t exfoliate on a regular basis, dead skin cells set in on your skin, which in turn makes your skin look dull and dry. An energising Coffee Scrub in Chai or Latte will awaken the skin with its creamy and smooth texture. The combination of artesian salt and olive oil creates a superb exfoliation that can be found in the Salt and Sugar Scrub Pouch or Salt Scrub Jar. Make sure to follow up with their moisturiser while your skin is prepared to lock in the extra moisture and nutrients.

Your skin will be smooth and hydrated all summer when you harness the power of Australian extra virgin olive oil thanks to Olieve and Olie.

Visit their factory shopfront from 9am-4pm weekdays or Saturday 10am-2pm; closed public holidays and Sundays. You can shop online or find your nearest stockist at olieveandolie.com.au olieveandolie | P. 5982 0992 www.olieveandolie.com.au

Pre-pandemic, folk-pop-punk-poet Alana Wilkinson emerged as one of the most loved new artists on the Australian music scene. Combining delicate melodies with disarmingly insightful vignettes about the human condition, Wilkinson is a smiling assassin. Her songs skewer ex-lovers, would-be suitors,

ridiculous social norms and the absurd challenges of suburban life in a merciless yet strangely affectionate way, leaving audiences feeling like they’re sitting in her living room chatting about life over a steaming cuppa. In 2021 she moved from Seaford to northern NSW, and she is flying down to play at Music on the Hill in Red Hill on Friday, February 3, for a twice-postponed show. Alana chats to Robin from MP Music Network.

You’ve had an eventful two years. What were the highlights?

Yes, as a collective it seems to have been a big one. For us, we moved state, got a big curly puppy, had a beautiful tiny baby, a hospital wedding . . . lots of big feelings for lots of new songs.

What were the challenging times and how have they changed you?

My son was born extremely prematurely at 24 weeks weighing 700g, so we had a really challenging time navigating three months in intensive care for him in Queensland behind locked borders. Soon after arriving back home we were airlifted out of the floods in northern NSW. It’s been one heck of a journey. I honestly feel like a brand-new woman. I have discovered so many more layers of the human experience and have so much more to share about it all.

Why do you like playing Music on the Hill?

MOTH is one of my all-time favourite shows to play because the audience is just so special. So attentive, so connected and so involved. I just love it.

To the uninitiated, what’s an Alana Wilkinson show like?

It’s a time of fabulous choreography, feathered costumes, confetti cannons and swans . . . honk! OK, I lied. It’s a show that meanders through the weird and wonderful back alleys of the human condition, which I believe is where all the real, sometimes hilarious, sometimes devastating stuff hangs out. And while we won’t have swans, we will have harmonies and double bass. So there’s that.

What is your favourite song to play live?

Currently my favourite song to play is one I wrote just after I had my son. I was walking around with my brain asleep when I answered the door to collect a parcel, and after the postman acted super-strangely I realised that one of my breasts had popped out. So the song is called With A Boob Out, which is how I lived life for a solid eight months.

What have you planned for 2023?

I am in the studio recording my debut album. I’m super-excited about it and can’t wait to share these songs with everyone. I’m sure there’ll be a tour to follow and all the things, but for now I’m just focused on making them as wonderful as possible. New music has been a long time coming.

Keep up to date with Alana Wilkinson on Instagram @alana.wilkinson and see her play at MOTH, Red Hill Pavilion, on Friday, February 3. Tickets from musiconthehill.com.au

For further information about musicians, events, or to get involved in the Mornington Peninsula Music Network, visit the MPMN Instagram page @ mpmusicnetwork or website www.mpmusic.com.au

Take steps to support our mental health

The Great Aussie Hike was developed in 2020 by a group of volunteers who wanted to do something to help the mental well-being of the community during both lockdowns and periods of heavy restrictions. It was designed to give friends a tangible resource they could use to support each other – something that is simple to follow while based on foundations that research shows does make a difference.

The program component focuses on human connection, goal-setting, basic physical activity in nature and mindset development that is completed in small groups. The program concludes with a team walking challenge on March 24-25. Teams can choose from either 30km, 43km, 57km or 100km distances that wind around the Mornington Peninsula on a stunning course developed just for this event.

Participants can either elect to walk the whole course or share the distance with their mates. This option allows for greater inclusion, with all your friends able to join the fun no matter their level of fitness. The training program is also available for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels with the primary purpose of getting people moving, talking, staying connected and having something to work towards together. This also makes the challenge a fantastic team-building activity for workplaces.

While the purpose of the challenge is to get fit, have fun and strengthen friendships, it is also a wonderful opportunity to explore the Peninsula’s hidden treasures. Day one will see teams departing Cape Schanck and continuing along the trails until they arrive at the Arthurs Seat Eagle base. The fantastic team here will provide gondolas for the walkers to travel to the summit and add this amazing experience to their journey. Teams will continue to Main Ridge before resting overnight and starting the next day in Red Hill South. Day two travels west to Somers, continues through Crib Point and Hastings before arriving at Devilbend Natural Features Reserve and the finish line on Saturday evening.

The Great Aussie Hike is also delighted to announce a new partnership with Lifeline Australia. Donations raised via the challenge will mean that Lifeline can answer more calls from those in crisis and ensure its services will be available tonight, tomorrow night and every night. It really is a wonderful way to support your own mental health, look after your mates and care about those struggling within our community. Further details can be found at www.greataussiehike.com.au

The Great Aussie Hike is proudly supported by Mornington Peninsula Magazine.

If you or someone you know needs crisis support, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au/gethelp for Lifeline Chat Service (24/7).

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mornington PENINSULA

Watt a bright idea

Mornington Park has been fitted with its first solar tree – a sculpture demonstrating how solar energy and batteries can be used to power our lives.

Mornington Peninsula Shire said the tree not only acts as a piece of public art, “(it) also provides programmable township lighting, wireless phone-charging facilities and a place to sit and relax – all without a connection to the electricity grid”.

“The solar tree aims to showcase the Shire’s commitment to a circular economy, create conversations and strengthen the community’s understanding of renewable energy,” the Shire said in a statement. “As part of our Climate Emergency Plan, the solar tree supports our climate change goals.”

Cr Anthony Marsh described the solar tree as “a great way to light up the space while providing a convenient charging point for people on the move”. Cr Despi O’Connor, meanwhile, thanked members of the Mornington Men’s Shed “who were able to repurpose some of the reclaimed timber from the Rye Pier refurbishment to give the solar tree a special touch in keeping with its seaside location”.

LAKESIDE

The Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate present the ultimate vineyard escape. These 3 newly refurbished villas are constructed entirely over the Crittenden Estate vineyard lake providing a sense of floating among the vines.

Each stand-alone villa is fully self-contained and is situated close to all that the Mornington Peninsula has to offer. Onsite- Crittenden Wine Centre and Stillwater restaurant.

Being a small family run business, we provide those smaller details to make your stay a memorable one.

Know your farmer

When Mornington Peninsula chef and farmer Simone Watts isn’t cooking, she has her hands in the dirt at Cape Schanck’s Barragunda Estate planting produce for her pop-up cooking events. Simone has the wheels in motion to open a 40-seat farm-to-table restaurant at Barragunda in spring this year.

Simone’s cooking career began under the tutelage of esteemed Melbourne chefs Greg Malouf (MoMo) and Adam D’Sylva (Pearl). Travel and cooking in Asia and Canada were next to broaden her resume before she returned to Melbourne and took up the reins as head chef at celebrated CBD restaurant Coda.

After her time at Coda cooking for a packed house week after week, it was time for a break. “I was feeling disconnected from food,” Simone says. “I took six months off, travelled, and did an internship at Transition Farm in Fingal. Working with Robin and Peter at Transition Farm blew my mind and opened my world to biodynamics and respect for the environment. I never went back to the city.”

An interest in native foods then took Simone to Far North Queensland, where she worked as executive chef at the Daintree Ecolodge and would meet its owners, the Morris family. The Morrises have become integral to the next part of Simone’s vision, as they own Barragunda Estate.

In 2020 Simone returned to Victoria and set to work developing plans for what started out as a farm-to-table restaurant but grew into something bigger for both the community and the environment. “The pandemic delayed our restaurant plans for the better. Instead of selfishly creating a beautiful restaurant where I can do farm-to-table dining, we started asking, ‘What’s best for the community?’, ‘What’s best for the environment on the farm?’, ‘How can we integrate a better model for young farmers into what we’re doing?’”

The result is The Barragunda Collective, an agricultural hub of young, independent, regenerative farmers dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected way of life for themselves and the community. “When I spoke to people who wanted to farm, they wanted to run their own farming business. But here on the Peninsula, where you’re looking at a million dollars an acre for a patch of grass, you’re not going to make that back selling carrots very quickly. So the collective was born from the notion of providing young farmers reasonable lease prices to be able to farm.”

Regenerating Farms and Morning Penni Farm are the farming businesses that grow food at Barragunda for the collective’s community supported agriculture model, and eventually for the restaurant.

You can become a member of The Barragunda Collective and subscribe to have weekly organic vegetable boxes delivered to your door. There are options to add organic meat, organic orchard produce, preserves, mushrooms from Mushroom Forestry, and bread from Tuerong Farm to your vegetable box.

“We decided a direct distribution model for the community provided a direct link to consumers and gives them a sense of place so they can visit the farm and understand where their food comes from.”

To learn more and to become a member of The Barragunda Collective, go to www.barragunda.com.au

NIKKI FISHER

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Horses given a second chance at life

Miriam Heatherich’s love of horses began in childhood and has continued into her adult life, where she is making a difference to vulnerable horses and children at her Wilindi Estate property on the Mornington Peninsula.

“When I was 13 years old, I first heard of Project Hope,” Miriam says. “It’s one of the oldest horse rescue organisations in Australia. Rescuing animals has always been a childhood dream.”

Just as the pandemic hit, Miriam left city life in Sydney behind her to pursue her dream. She set up Herd Harmony, a not-for-profit horse rescue and rehabilitation organisation. “I’ve always been captivated by how majestic horses are, and I think there’s something very noble, even spiritual about them. They’re such tolerant animals; it’s sad that they’re ‘thrown away’ when they’re of no commercial use in some industries. People would be horrified if they knew how many horses are neglected and how many are slaughtered. I can’t save them all but I’m doing what I can and, importantly, educating the next generation about respectfully communicating with all animals.”

Miriam has recently completed studies to become an equine assisted teacher. “Ultimately, my job as an equine assisted teacher is to facilitate a conversation between the horse and the person, then I allow them to have self-discovery without me telling them what I see. Nothing is wrong and nothing is right; they get to have their own experience and notice how they react.”

Bailey, Amber, Old Lady Bella, Vader and mini-horses Bunny and Valentine are just some of the lucky horses to have found themselves in the care of Farmer Mim, as Miriam calls herself. A team of equine vets, dentists and farriers work with Miriam to nurture each horse back to full health. Once well, the horses are behaviourally assessed, trained, and eventually re-homed.

“The reason I find horse neglect and slaughter so emotive is because in nearly all cases those horses have had a trusting relationship with a human being, and then they’re put on a truck and sent off to slaughter trusting the same humans,” Miriam says. “It’s heartbreaking.”

The story of how Herd Harmony was created has provided inspiration for Farmer Mim to the Rescue, a children’s book written and illustrated by Lynne Groovy Edwards. It tells the inspiring and amusing rhyming story of animal-lover Mim and how rescuing a pony changes her life.

To learn more about Herd Harmony, go to www.wilindiestate.com

NIKKI FISHER

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA

Rescuing horses is a childhood dream that Miriam Heatherich has realised with Herd Harmony.

Own an authentic piece of the past

We at Dove and Lyre appreciate the expense and offer the layby facility, helping to spread your purchase. We are flexible with the repayment terms due to the large differences in our product prices.

Dove and Lyre in Main St, Mornington, is a shop we believe is sure to impress – a fasci-nating eclectic mix of unique and wonderful objects that have been collected over many years. To name but a few of the most amazing items for sale is a 120 million-year-old baby dinosaur, Psittacosaurus sinensis, a small herbivore from China; a very unusual three-chambered amethyst cave from Brazil; and antiquities more than 5000 years old.

We have a vast range of gemstones, from the common rose quartz to the obscure petroleum quartz from Pakistan, ranging in price from $4 to more than $10,000. Our extensive range of fossils includes trilobites from Morocco and the US, ammonites from many places in the world, a woolly mammoth lower jaw with teeth, and megalodon shark teeth

with a great white tooth to show size comparison.

We have a range of meteorites including a piece from Namibia called Gibeon, which on impact created Libyan glass (yellow tektite) 600 million years ago. We also have moldavite, the result of a meteorite impact in Germany about 14 million years ago.

We have for sale antiquities from around the world from the everpopular Rome and Viking eras, and others dating back several thousand years.

Jewellery from antique to Art Deco and the latest handmade sterling silver jewellery, earrings and fashion jewellery.

Dove and Lyre have a superb collection of butterflies, moths, bats, spiders and other beasties framed and in glass domes.

Make sure you put Dove and Lyre on your ‘MUST SEE’ list when you are out and about in Mornington.

Fossils Crystals Jewellery Antiquities Taxidermied Butterflies and Bugs

Frankston flicks the switch on rooftop solar

A 523kW solar power system on the roof of Frankston’s Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre is expected to save more than 600 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions a year.

It’s Frankston City Council’s largest rooftop solar installation project and could pay for itself within eight years, according to Cr Claire Harvey, who joined Peninsula Leisure CEO Kath Thom to ‘flick the switch’ recently.

“The system will save an estimated 614 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually and is expected to pay for itself within eight years,” Cr Harvey said. “The PARC rooftop solar project complements the installation of another new rooftop solar system almost completed at Frankston Civic Centre. The solar projects are key actions in council’s Towards Zero Emissions plan and will help to reduce council’s emissions and contribution to climate change.”

Ms Thom said Peninsula Leisure, the council-owned subsidiary company that manages PARC as well as the Pines Forest Aquatic Centre, was excited to see the positive impacts solar would have on the centre’s energy use. “With almost 1 million visitors each year, PARC is a big user of energy, so this system is key in helping the reduction of Frankston’s emissions.”

Meanwhile, the council is developing a new climate change strategy and action plan, and community input on the draft is open until January 8. For your say, go to www. engage.frankston.vic.gov.au

If you own a holiday apartment, especially in the northern half of the Peninsula stretching all the way to the heart of Melbourne itself, there’s a chance your property may be underperforming under its current management. Maybe you’re taking care of it yourself on top of your day-to-day life or letting an agent take care of it for you; do you really feel its getting the best attention it deserves and making the most from bookings that it can?

Holiday Rentals Australia is seeing a huge boom in booking interest from prospective guests for their properties which includes houses and apartments. Apartments however are seeing the highest number of enquiries and all the company’s recently launched properties, managed on behalf of their owners, are flourishing. Their latest apartment launch, using the company’s signature thorough approach to photos and listing content, saw 5 quality bookings received in the first 48 HOURS of the listing going live. Their latest house launch received a long, high value booking within just 36 HOURS.

If you think your property could be doing better, call Stephen on 0435 768 514. It might be time you shook things up with your management to make sure you don’t miss out on the unprecedented boom of domestic travel we’re expecting this summer.

Call Stephen today on 0435 768 514 for a friendly no-obligation chat and appraisal of your property. www.HolidayRentalsAustralia.com.au

Come and join our fabulous events we host regularly across several amazing venues on the Mornington Peninsula. Connect and build great friendships and furthermore, support live music. Exclusively run by professional local event organiser who understands the complexities & challenges involved in socialising again.

singles over 40

The only business in Victoria which solely organises and runs exclusive events for singles over 40

Demand from guests for holiday apartments is booming! Is yours keeping up?

Little hands make a big difference

Trees provide so many benefits in our everyday lives. They help filter air, provide cleaner drinking water, curb climate change, and create homes for a multitude of species of plants and animals.

Families from the Natured Kids outdoor playgroup worked very hard at Armstrong Reserve in Seaford with Frankston City Council rangers Pat and Stacey to plant 300 indigenous shrubs and trees as food and habitat for wildlife.

Locals are already looking forward to

this year’s annual playgroup planting event during the cooler months with the council. Why don’t you pop along to this little hidden gem of a dog and child-friendly walking track to see how rapidly their shrubs have grown to almost double the size thanks to the spring rain and summer sunshine.

For details on joining regular weekly outdoor Natured Kids adventures that give your children up to six the opportunity to connect with, contribute to and care for each other and the natural environment, call teacher and playgroup co-ordinator Narelle on 0431 791 379.

There are so many native parks, playgrounds and reserves to enjoy these summer holidays. Our all-time favourite locations are the Frankston Nature Conservation Reserve, and Sweetwater Creek. They will keep kids busy exploring for hours. You can often hear frogs croaking by the creek and koalas munching on gum leaves in nearby eucalyptus trees. A full description of these special spaces can be found in the free booklet you can download from the council’s website at https://bit.ly/3F4MXXy

NARELLE DEBENHAM, Natured Kids

The Tarantula Nebula –also called 30 Doradus or NGC 2070 ¬– is located 170,000 lightyears away in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way system, and is the most vigorous star-forming region and the largest stellar nursery we know of in the local universe. In fact, if this enormous complex of stars, gas and dust were at the distance of the Orion Nebula, it would be visible during the day and cover a quarter of the sky. Photo:

See the stars come out at The Briars

When observing the skies this month, the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) in the constellation Dorado can be seen with binoculars in the evenings. Among its sparkling stars you will find the Tarantula Nebula (NGC 2070), which appears to the naked eye as a glowing patch the size of the full moon.

You will also find the second brightest star, Canopus, in the constellation Carina sitting high in the sky, while Sirius, the brightest star of the entire night sky, is almost overhead. Orion dominates the view with its brightest stars, supergiants blue-white Rigel and red Betelgeuse, also high up, and the Orion Nebula (M42) placed high within the constellation. The prominent upside-down ‘V’ shape of the Hyades open star cluster in Taurus is a fine

sight to the naked eye or through binoculars, with nearby Aldebaran, the brightest star in the constellation, shining with a red-orange tint lower in the north.

NGC 2516, the Southern Beehive, is an open cluster in Carina and is well placed this month. To find this spectacular cluster, look just to the left of Epsilon Carinae, officially named Avior, which is the southwestern star in the asterism known as the False Cross. Because NGC 2516 glows at magnitude 3.8, you’ll have no trouble finding it with the naked eye – it’s one of the sky’s 20 brightest open clusters.

Conjunctions with the moon and planets this month, which is when two astronomical objects appear close to each other in the sky, include January 4 with Mars, January 26 with Jupiter and January 31 with Mars again.

Throughout January, the Mornington Peninsula

Astronomical Society will be holding its Summer Series public stargazing nights on Friday 6, Saturday 7, Friday 13 and Friday 27 at the MPAS Observatory at The Briars in Mount Martha. Each starts at 8pm with a multimedia talk and Q&A before moving outside to view the moon, planets, stars and clusters, all through a wide array of telescopes supplied by the society and members. Tickets are limited and bookings are necessary, so don’t miss out.

For further information about the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society, such as public stargazing nights, event bookings and membership, please visit the society’s Facebook page, or website at www.mpas.asn.au

NERIDA LANGCAKE, Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society

MPAS member Guido Tack

From play days to paydays

Are you in the process of sorting through your old video games and deciding what to send to e-waste to make room for all those exciting new titles Santa left under the tree last month? Well, before you do, consider this: they could be worth serious coin.

A sealed NES cartridge of The Legend of Zelda fetched almost $1.3 million when it went under the hammer at US auction house Heritage Auctions 18 months ago, prompting online US gambling site TouchCasino.com to identify the highest prices paid for a range of old video games. It found Nintendo World Championships (1990) is the most valuable vintage video game currently available, having sold for $408,475 – hardly surprising considering only 116 cartridges are known to exist.

The second most valuable is ClayFighter: Sculptor’s Cut (1998). With only 20,000 copies ever made for former rental giant Blockbuster, it is valued at $222,804. It’s closely followed by Super Mario Bros 3, which is valued at $221,319.

Atari’s arcade classic Paperboy (1985) is the fourth most valuable at $207,951, ahead of Super Mario Kart ($89,120), Duck Hunt ($64,559), Pac-Man ($59,413), Luigi’s Mansion ($44,559), Conker’s Bad Fur Day ($40,072) and The Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past ($38,641).

Go to https://bit.ly/3Y0PNp5 to see what some of your old favourites might be worth.

Smart financial advice from Australia’s leading SMSF adviser

Shannon Smit, founding director of Smart Private Wealth, ended 2022 winning two coveted Australian SMSF Financial Adviser awards in three weeks, to sit nicely alongside her growing stack of professional awards. As the financial planning division of highly regarded, award-winning accounting firm Smart Business Solutions, Smart Private Wealth understands self-managed super funds and how to use them.

It’s no surprise that control is the No.1 reason people give when asked why they choose to exit their retail superannuation fund in favour of an SMSF. When managed well, an SMSF can become a very effective tax management and wealth accumulation tool.

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

“People want to know how they can retire comfortably, how they can pay off their mortgage, get the caravan and afford private school,” Shannon says. “They want to know how to use their superannuation to invest in property or how they can protect their family and assets using estate planning or insurance.”

Smart Private Wealth constantly monitor their clients’ SMSFs to ensure compliance with any regulatory changes. “It's our responsibility to stay in front of SMSF legislation changes. You can trust in our expertise in this area and our ongoing training and accreditations to remain at the forefront of all superannuation developments and requirements.”

With more than 15 years in operation looking after the finances of the Mornington Peninsula’s business owners

and individuals, Smart Private Wealth work with you to identify areas in your finances and personal structures that are not realising their full potential, and help you improve them to ensure they’re caring for all corners of your financial well-being.

Start planning your ‘slightly more spendy future’ with a well-managed SMSF by Australia’s leading SMSF adviser, Shannon Smit and the Smart Private Wealth team. Have a chat to see how we can help you look at your superannuation and retirement planning differently.

SMART PRIVATE WEALTH

A: Level 1, 328 Main St, Mornington

T: 5911 7000 W: www.smartprivatewealth.com.au

Rethink what your money can do.

Strategic SMSF Experts

ion tool.

The team at Smart Private Wealth are award-winning SMSF experts, creating intelligent and strategic superannuation and investment plans centered around our client’s goals and lifestyle.

Can I purchase property in a SMSF?

Our approach to commercial and residential property and SMSF is underpinned by our strategic and deep understanding of tax and property investment in SMSF.

Can I move an existing commercial property into my super?

Yes! It is possible to bring an existing asset into an SMSF, which can sometimes be achieved tax-free. Ask us how we can help.

Can I get a SMSF loan from the bank?

You can borrow money through your super fund to cover an investment purchase, but you need a special SMSF loan to do it. The Big 4 and many other well-known lenders have pulled out of the SMSF market meaning you need a SMSF lending specialist. Our Mortgage & Lending specialists are accredited with SMSF lenders and can assist with securing the right loan for your SMSF investment.

Level 1, 328 Main Street Mornington Vic, 3931 T 03 5911 7000 reception@smartprivatewealth.com.au www.smartprivatewealth.com.au

the village MT ELIZA

While the rest of the Peninsula is packed with visitors and day trippers over the next few months, remember that just off Nepean Highway, between Mornington and Frankston, is this gorgeous shady, tree lined village of Mount Eliza which is ‘off the well worn track’ of most tourists. No driving around in circles looking for a parking space. Offering a host of independent boutiques and professional service providers, this is the place to get an excellent pampering session or consult with a wellness professional, without the hustle and bustle of other typical Mornington Peninsula destinations.

Open for shopping and personal services six days a week, including Saturday mornings, but on Sundays our village is quiet while business owners take some precious family time.

Follow our Facebook page @MtElizaVillage and Instagram @mteliza_village for your pampering and wellness inspiration then come and enjoy our special village, the best kept secret on the Mornington Peninsula.

Mt Eliza Podiatry: Renee de Jong has over 20 years experience as a podiatrist. Come in and visit our new clinic. 8/54 Mt Eliza Way, 8849 0555

FB @Mt Eliza Podiatry www.mtelizapodiatry.com.au

Trish Stamp Travel – Helloworld: Travel is pure happiness for the mind, let us take you to your happy place. 70 Mount Eliza Way, 9787 5437 FB @trishstamptravel

Herbaceous Florist : Herbaceous florist is a stockist for the amazing AL.IVE products - see instore for our huge range. 46 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 4955 @herbaceous_flowers

W Method Pilates: At W Method we have created innovative Pilates programs designed to build strength, fitness and confidence.

7/54 Mt Eliza Way, 0412 069 480 @wmethodau

Eliza Health Food and Gifts : Start your new year by supporting your skin with collagen and Kora Organics skin care. Ritchies Village Centre, 9775 2611, FB @elizahealthfoodandgifts

Hunter and Minx: Nifty designs in hygienic silicone, Toiletries’ bathroom storage and grooming tools will keep you AND your bathroom in tip-top shape. 44 Ranelagh Drive, 9787 8227, @hunterminx

Peninsula Aesthetics: Peninsula Aesthetics is a boutique clinic providing cosmetic injectables. 4/20 Ranelagh Drive, 0432 846 535, IG @peninsulaaesthetics FB @Peninsulaaestheticsinjectables

Base Podiatry : Base Podiatry provides general nail care, ingrown toenail solutions, orthotics and so much more. 5/18 Ranelagh Drive, 1300 77 60 55, www.basepodiatry.com.au

Headlines of Mount Eliza: For hair pampering using 100% organic NAK products, Scott and Kayla offer you their 50+ years of experience. Shop 3, 73-75 Canadian Bay Rd, 0431 810 109, @headlinesofmounteliza

The Beauty Emporium: The go-to clinic for facials and skin treatments on the Peninsula. 1/12 Ranelagh Drive, 9787 2323, @the_beauty_emporium

Pediatrician in the running for Senior Australian title

Mornington Peninsula Foundation board member

Professor Frank Oberklaid AM will travel to Canberra in a bid to become the Senior Australian of the Year on January 25. The Victorian Senior Australian of the Year is a pediatrician and founding director of the Centre for Community Child Health at The Royal Children’s Hospital.

An internationally recognised authority and advocate for children’s health, Prof Oberklaid is currently co-group leader of child health policy, equity and translation at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and an Honorary Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Melbourne.  His recent research focus has been developing the Mental Health in Primary Schools program, which provides experienced teachers with the skills to become mental health and well-being co-ordinators.

“Over the last decade there’s been more focus on adult mental health and there’s been some focus on adolescent mental health, but for a long time child mental health was ignored; it was the elephant in the room,” Prof Oberklaid said. “It started to change pre-COVID and was amplified by COVID. Suddenly people realised kids get anxious and

have issues as well.”

Mornington Peninsula Foundation is a place-based philanthropic organisation whose mission is to help Peninsula communities break the cycle of disadvantage. Prof Oberklaid joined its board a year ago. “I really believe in MPF’s mission and particularly their approach. Over the years I’ve learned that individual programs, as wellmeaning as they are, just don’t cut it. Building capacity is the way to go, and that’s what MPF is doing.”

Prof Oberklaid said he was using his Victorian Senior Australian of the Year award as a platform for advocacy. “In my advocacy I focus on early childhood because the research is so clear. What happens to kids in the first five years before they start school has long-term consequences, and the argument for prevention and early intervention and then mental health is linked to that. My advocacy for a long time has been invest in kids, invest in prevention; that makes biological and economic sense as well.”

Victorian Senior Australian of the Year and pediatrician Professor Frank Oberklaid AM.

mornington PENINSULA

Passion, performance and first-class customer service

Built on a tradition of passion, performance and first-class customer service, Mornington BMW is a proud Australianowned family business. With community at the heart of our business, we employ 25 local and passionate employees, including apprentices as young as 17 starting out on their automotive career and working with some of the most technically advanced vehicles available today.

BMW’s commitment to providing superb service that delivers an uncompromising driving experience has led to the arrival of multiple new models into our showroom. In November we welcomed the new BMW X1, the Ultimate Driving Machine that provides a powerful statement on the road with its versatility and functionality.

The new BMW X7 steered its way into the Mornington BMW showroom radiating presence, luxurious comforts and generous size. The new BMW X7 is designed to elevate every moment of your journey. The substantial size creates a sense of freedom from the first to the third row.

The latest BMW 7 Series Sedan offers pure elegance and multisensory entertainment, producing the best in-vehicle experience for both the driver and passengers, with high-class interiors presenting innovative experiences and comfort that is incomparable. Enjoy an interplay of light, sound and climate optimised to match your mood in the showroom today.

In 2023 we look forward to welcoming even more new models, including the BMW iX1, BMW XM, BMW M3 Touring and BMW M2, to name just a few.

The team at Mornington BMW are available to assist with all sales and servicing questions, and we look forward to welcoming you.

MORNINGTON BMW

A: 181 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Mornington T: 5970 5970

W: www.morningtonbmw.com.au

Weddings

Michelle is dedicated to celebrating love in all its glorious forms, in wedding ceremonies, commitment ceremonies, renewal of vows and celebrating life in baby naming ceremonies and end of life ceremonies.

Michelle is a warm and joyful celebrant.

Michelle White

is located on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, nestled between the vineyards and the bay, in Mt Eliza.

Take your marks and get set for the Rye Gift

Since January 1975, the Rye Gift has been a permanent fixture on the summer athletics race meet calendar. The annual community event attracts athletes from all over Australia and sees a few thousand people converge on RJ Rowley Reserve in Rye to compete or soak up the atmosphere and cheer the runners on.

The Rye Gift is organised by the Rye Sports and Social Club, which represents seven sporting groups in Rye: senior and junior football, netball, cricket, basketball, tennis and athletics. Profits raised from the event are distributed to the clubs and go towards equipment and operational expenses.

Gary Gillies, club president for the past 13 years, has been involved in organising the Gift since 1980. “When it started, we thought the Gift was a good way of getting clubs together and creating a community event,” Gary says. “The Gift has become a Shire icon event, along with the Red Hill Show.”

The Rye Gift started as a male-only competition but has grown to include a women’s Gift and junior Gift. “About 15 years ago we were one of the first clubs to introduce females running in a Gift,” Gary says. “We had a sponsor from Hillview Quarries (who) wanted women to be included, so we put the word out and there were 48 women registered to run. We have a variety of races across the day, starting with 70m sprints, then we go up to 120m sprints then 400, 300, 800 and 1600.” The junior races are held during the lunch break and the winning and placing competitors receive a trophy or sash. Prize money ranges from $300 to $5000. “Without sponsorship from Bendigo Bank of $15,000 and other sponsor support, we couldn’t run the event.”

The Rye Gift is a family event that features free entertainment the kids will love, including a jumping castle and face painting. It will be held on Saturday, January 14, from 10am at RJ Rowley Reserve, Melbourne Rd, Rye.

mornington PENINSULA

NIKKI FISHER

Empowered to achieve

Study Kickstarter is an online program that teaches impactful skills, strategies and habits to students who want to experience success in their final years of school. Hello Learning Academy owner Kirsten Furness has been teaching on the Peninsula since 2007 and believes that no matter the subject or school, there are six common challenges Year 11 and 12 students grapple with:

• Maintaining health and well-being throughout the school year;

• Understanding how they learn best;

• The ‘big three’: time management, organisation, and study;

• Interpreting questions and knowing how to answer them effectively;

• Writing with more depth, clarity, and confidence; and,

• Using feedback constructively to improve over time.

Addressing these blocks can be challenging. Sometimes kids need an impartial yet experienced teacher and mentor to help guide them through. “So often, parents say how relieved they are that their child openly talks with me about what they are struggling with,” says Kirsten. “Having worked with thousands of kids, I know what works and what doesn’t.”

Study Kickstarter is an innovative way to help kids achieve their potential at school. A combination of group mentoring and an online course, the program adds value to the important work of teachers and schools and can be easily integrated into a study routine.

“Kids start the year with a plan and good intentions, but VCE is like running a marathon, not a sprint,” Kirsten says. “The transferrable skills, habits and mindsets I focus on form a strong foundation for motivation and growth. The benefits of consistency compound, which ultimately has a profound impact on educational outcomes.”

Study Kickstarter starts on January 22, and one-on-one mentoring is also available. To find out more or register for the January information session, visit www.hellolearningacademy. com/studykickstarter or email Kirsten at info@ hellolearningacademy.com

HELLO LEARNING ACADEMY

T: 0404 590 731

W: www.hellolearningacademy.com

INSTA: hellolearningacademy

Travel made easier with Jessica Cameron

Travelling is well and truly back on the agenda in our post-pandemic world, but travel has changed and having your own personal travel adviser has never been so important. COVID highlighted that cancellations happen. There are different regulations to keep up with, and if things go wrong it’s so helpful to have a personal point of contact you can trust who can assist and be your advocate.

That’s where personal travel adviser Jessica Cameron comes in, making travel easier. Jessica is excited to reignite the travel landscape from her office based in Mount Eliza. Some readers may remember Jessica from Peninsula Travel in Mount Martha, where she was a team leader until early 2018. “I’m keen to reconnect with past clients and of course meet new ones looking for personalised service to make their holiday dreams come alive,” Jessica says.

Jessica is consulting as a personal travel adviser alongside multi-award-winning agency Main Beach Travel, which is a member of Virtuoso. “Through Main

Beach Travel and Virtuoso, I have connections with the best providers of luxury travel globally. Virtuoso is an invitation-only network, allowing me to offer my clients myriad exclusive and tailor-made experiences, including luxury tours, cruises and accommodation, often inclusive of additional perks.”

Jessica’s love of travel, combined with her passion for providing excellent customer service, is the key to her success. In 2016 and 2017, Jessica received platinumlevel industry awards for outstanding customer service focus. “I genuinely love assisting people and talking about travel. I have the best contacts to help you get those un-Googleable experiences and I’m here to listen and help people with their travel dreams.”

As a cruise specialist, Jessica takes a keen interest in cruising but can assist you with your plans to almost anywhere. Give Jessica a call today.

JESSICA CAMERON

T: 0484 657 269

INSTA: jmctravel.au

FB: jmctravel

E: jessica@mainbeachtravel.com.au

Make it a New Energy new year

The GWM brand starts 2023 confidently knocking on the door of Australia’s top 10 selling vehicle manufacturers. And it’s no wonder. From seriously smart tech to upto-date 5-star ANCAP ratings, this range of SUVs and utes goes from strength to strength.

Haval is the No.1 SUV brand in the world’s biggest market. From the ultra-stylish Jolion to the luxury featurepacked H6 and sporty H6 GT, our SUVs are designed to put a smile on your face and deliver value through the whole ownership experience.

Arriving a little over six months ago, the first of Haval’s New Energy hybrid SUVs has provided a much-needed injection into the HEV market in Australia. With the same great design as their straight

petrol variants, they deliver a fuel saving of more than 30 per cent every 100km. Here on the Peninsula, we were one of the first Victorian dealerships for the GWM brand when it entered the Australian market, and we’ve been blown away by the reception of these latest utes and Haval SUVs. Best of all, with a starting price of just $28,490 for the Jolion Premium, they come at a range of price points that leaves much of the competition for dust – a worthy advantage given today’s cost-of-living pressures.

So there you have it. Why not pop down and treat yourself to a test drive?

PENINSULA GWM

A: 14 Wells Rd, Seaford

T: 9786 1022

W: www.peninsulagwmhaval.com.au

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

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Every man for himself

How might seamen ever come to be in such a tragic situation in Hobsons Bay, close to the mouth of the Yarra River?

There was little time to think of anyone else, however, when, after a collision, the steamer Kakariki sank in less than three minutes. One member of the crew, who warned his shipmates of the impending collision, was killed but his warning saved several of his mates. Two men, who were trapped below, drowned along with another two who did not survive in the heavy swell. All of the other men were rescued by the lifeboats from the other ship.

About 11 o’clock on the night of January 29, 1937, when about half a kilometre south of the Gellibrand pile-light, the steamer Caradale collided with the starboard side of the Kakariki, tearing an enormous hole. The Kakariki, inward bound from Strachan, Tasmania, was heavily laden with ore and general cargo and sank very quickly. The Caradale was bound for Sydney and had not long before left the mouth of the river.

Such a collision should never have occurred, but it seems likely that both masters were not expecting to meet another vessel at that time of night and were not being as careful as they should have been. The owners of both ships claimed that it was the fault of the other and, at the inquiries, the accounts given by each side were very different. On February 12, a Court of Marine Inquiry into the collision found that the Kakariki was solely to blame, but a High Court judgement on July 26 reversed that decision, finding that the fault lay totally with the Caradale

The Kakariki had been built in England

The s.s. Kakariki was sunk in Hobsons Bay in January, 1937.

Photo: Allan C. Green (1878-1954); State Library of Victoria

by Cochrane & Sons in 1926 and was owned and operated by the Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand. She was a small steamship, being only 58m in length, while the Caradale, though still a small ship, was larger at 88m. She was built in England by Swan Hunter & Wigham Richardson and was launched in 1921 with the name Lestris. The Patrick Steamship Co Pty Ltd bought her in 1936 for its service on the east coast of Australia.

MAURIE HUTCHINSON

President, Peninsula Ship Society

T: 9787 5780

E: mauriehutch@gmail.com

The Peninsula Ship Society meets at Hastings Yacht Club at 10am on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except November and December). Visitors are welcome.

we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Osprey pioneers beach house-inspired apartment design

The beach house is loved for providing relaxation, escape, and a place to connect with loved ones and nature – but they can be extravagant and require constant upkeep. This was the experience that inspired Martha Cove’s Osprey apartments, a collaboration between Figurehead Construction and Wolveridge Architects.

Two and three-bedroom coastal apartments with secure parking and storage options, lift access, and maintained gardens offer Osprey residents their own piece of breathtaking architecture and landscape without personal toll.

An exciting feature is the ‘lightwell breezeway’ entrances to each of the boutique apartments. This architectural technique provides crossflow ventilation and access to natural light – as well as providing a place for shoes and towels – while at the same time preserving security.

“We wanted to offer Martha Cove apartments that utilise sophisticated design and construction practices to feel light, bright, and use space better,” says Joe Grasso, founder and managing director of Figurehead Group, Osprey’s developer and builder. “Quality architecture shouldn’t be reserved for oversized homes only.”

Figurehead is an industry-leading builder with a reputation for delivering awardwinning outcomes of exceptional quality, including Martha Cove’s The Moorings, Wheelhouse (under construction) and Boatyard by d’Albora.

Osprey coastal apartments are available from $825,000-$1.6 million. Customisation is available to early purchasers; construction has started with completion on track for December 2023.

For further information, contact Ian Ross on 0404 868 470 or go to www. ospreymarthacove.com.au

Volvo’s mild hybrid is a new year winner

If a new car is on your wish list for this year, take a look at Volvo’s XC40 mild hybrid and prepare to be impressed. It was the 2022 winner of Drive Car of the Year Best Small Luxury SUV for good reason. This compact SUV has plenty of Swedish style, interior space, superior road handling and is excellent value in its class.

With seating for five it’s a perfect family car, and when the family isn’t on board the rear seats fold down, creating space and adding to its versatility.

The latest infotainment technology is a feature. Google Maps is fully integrated, there’s hands-free voice control

we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

with Google Assistant, real-time traffic info and automatic rerouting. The XC40’s best-in-class navigation means you can relax and enjoy the drive.

When it comes to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, Volvo’s XC40 mild hybrid technology means the vehicle saves fuel and reduces tailpipe emissions by recovering energy from the brakes and storing it in a 48V battery.

Volvo Cars Brighton is proud to be featuring the XC40 this month. The team invites you to visit their thoughtfully designed showroom – complete with in-house barista – and spend time talking through Volvo’s world-leading innovations.

If you like the sound of all the Volvo XC40 has to offer

and want to learn more, visit the team at Volvo Cars Brighton. You’ll receive excellent service from the initial meeting to the test drive through to the purchase and beyond in after-purchase service. Call in today and experience the XC40 for yourself.

Opening hours are 8.30am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday. The service centre is at 55 Keys Rd, Moorabbin.

VOLVO CARS BRIGHTON

A: 227-229 Nepean Highway, Gardenvale

T: 9998 3797

W: www.volvocarsbrighton.com.au

FB: brightonvolvo

INSTA: volvo_cars_brighton

XC40 HYBRID

In stock now

Learn Italian and have fun doing IT.

Maria-Antonia Campagna is a secondary school teacher and author who, over the past 20 years, has taught Italian in primary and secondary schools across Melbourne. In 2000 she established her business GRUPPO IT., teaching Italian to multi-age students in a private setting.

In 2021, after moving to Mornington with her husband Angelo, she self-published an Italian grammar book and a series of conversational books. Keen to share her love of the Italian language, she began conducting Italian conversational lessons at D.O.C Mornington. Her lessons have gathered momentum, creating quite a buzz around town with many locals asking about lessons.

Caffè e Conversazione is a beginner’s guide to conversational Italian. The programs have an emphasis on conversational dialogues and role-playing where participants have the opportunity to practise language concepts learnt in a fun and relaxed manner. It allows for language immersion, social interaction, friendly banter, and hopefully a good coffee in a welcoming environment. Caffè e Conversazione – Have Fun with IT. are the texts used at Maria-Antonia’s conversational classes.

For information on Maria-Antonia’s classes at D.O.C Mornington or to purchase a copy of her books, email ma7634@bigpond.com GRUPPO IT.

Kerbside recycling service picks up

Mornington Peninsula Shine is increasing the frequency of its kerbside recycling service over summer. From now until January 27, household recycling bins will be collected weekly instead of fortnightly. The following items can be recycled:

Paper, cardboard, newspaper and magazines

Glass bottles and jars (lids removed)

Hard plastic containers

Milk and juice cartons

Aluminium steel cans, trays, empty aerosols, and foil scrunched into a ball

Plastic bottles (not lids)

These items can’t be placed in recycling bins:

Plastic bags or soft plastic packaging

Food or garden waste

Cutlery or crockery

Clothing, linen, shoes and toys

Garden appliances and equipment

Nappies

Hazardous materials including batteries, gas bottles, oil and paint

Polystyrene

Residents with extra recycling or large items that can’t fit in their recycling bin can drop them off free of charge at the Shire’s resource recovery centres. Some other household recyclables that can’t go in your kerbside recycling bin can also be disposed of at the Shire’s recovery stations or recycling trailer. Residents can also order an extra recycling bin for a one-off fee of $80.

For information on how to recycle other items or to search for your bin days, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/ recycling

Enquiries - email: ma7634@bigpond.com

Peninsula tourism businesses strike gold at awards

Mornington Peninsula businesses have shone at the 2022 Victorian Tourism Awards, picking up gold and silver in six categories. Red Hill Candle Co won the Tourism Retail and Hire Services category, Carmel at Sorrento took out the 5-Star Luxury Accommodation category, and Searoad Ferries won the Major Tour and Transport Operator category. Each will go on to the Australian Tourism Awards in Sydney early this year.

Grape Explorations was the silver award-winner in the Tour and Transport Operator category, and Mornington Boat Hire won silver in both the Adventure Tourism and Cultural Tourism categories. Arthurs Seat Eagle and Peninsula Hot Springs were finalists at the awards. Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Steve Holland described the results as “an amazing achievement. It has shown our Peninsula is a leader in tourism excellence and a great place to visit, play and stay”.

The Victorian Tourism Awards recognise and celebrate excellence within the tourism industry and allow businesses to benchmark their own practices against peers and competitors while identifying opportunities for business innovation.

For information about Peninsula tourism experiences, visit the Mornington Peninsula Visitor Information Centre in Dromana, email info@tourism.mornpen.vic.gov.au or visit mpbusiness. com.au/experience-local

Carmel at Sorrento

Shire invites your Budget ideas and priorities

We’d like to hear from our community on what is important to you and what you think should be prioritised in our Budget 2023-24. While most of the money in the Budget is allocated to essential services including waste collection, road maintenance, family services and more, your feedback will help shape our Budget and future strategies according to the community’s needs.

Like last year, we’re making it easier for everyone to have their ideas and priorities considered for the Budget. All you have to do is go online to our community portal where you can put forward your aspirations and ideas. All contributions and feedback will be presented to Council for their consideration.

In our portal you can also let us know how you think we should allocate money to 14 themes. Additionally, we’ve introduced a new tool where you’ll see every $1000 budget allocated to current services. It’s called the Service Prioritisation tool; you use it by scaling up and down on the 21 high-level services and you’ll be able to balance the budget to align with your needs. The tool

helps you understand how the Shire’s operating budget is allocated and allows you to prioritise where spending should go.

The Budget portal is open until Wednesday, March 15, at mornpen.vic.gov.au/budgetportal. If you need help, email budget@mornpen.vic.gov.au or phone 5950 1000. Hard copy forms are also available at Customer Service Centres and our drop-in sessions.

MORNINGTON PENINSULA SHIRE

A: 2 Queen St, Mornington

A: 90 Besgrove St, Rosebud

A: 21 Marine Pde, Hastings

A: 1085 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Somerville

T: 5950 1000

W: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Home

Torie Mackinnon has won the 2022 Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Legend’s Award, with Jodi Neary picking up the inaugural Emerging Leader Award.

As the managing director of Moonraker Dolphin Swims for 20 years, Torie has made a profound impact in championing marine tourism on the Peninsula. Alongside her passion for raising awareness of the underwater wildlife that calls the region home, she has been at the forefront of making the second-generation family-owned and operated business a leader in sustainable and ecofriendly marine tours. Moonraker Dolphin Swims has

been an award-winner domestically and globally and has been inducted into both the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame and Eco Tourism Australia’s Hall of Fame.

At 17, Torie was the youngest person in Australia to obtain a captain’s certificate, and in 2012 she was named Telstra Victorian Young Business Woman of the Year. Her award recognises her commitment to Moonraker Dolphin Swims and acknowledges her contribution to and leadership within the tourism industry.

Jodie has been the owner and managing director of The Ranch Mornington Peninsula for more than six years, making strides within the region’s outdoor attraction and adventure scene. She has also been accepted into

the Melbourne Tourism Industry Leaders Program. Her award acknowledges her qualities as a future leader and someone who is expected to make a considerable contribution to the industry throughout her career.

Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board CEO Angela Cleland described both women as “inspiring” tourism leaders. “Both Torie and Jodi have made exceptional contributions to driving tourism on the Mornington Peninsula, all while creating memorable and enjoyable visitor experiences,” Angela said. “We look forward to continuing to watch both Moonraker Dolphin Swims and The Ranch grow to new heights, and wish Torie and Jodi all the very best in their future endeavours.”

Disabled surfers catching waves and smiles

Surfing, sun and smiles – they’re the three ideal ingredients the Mornington Peninsula Disabled Surfers Association seeks for its biannual events at Point Leo.

With the simple but powerful aim to ‘put smiles on dials’, the association provides a safe and enjoyable surfing experience for people with any disability. Whether you’re a participant, volunteer or carer, you’re guaranteed to come away grinning.

Its next event is on Saturday, January 21, from 11am-3pm at Point Leo Beach. It’s the ideal accessible location, with a boardwalk down to the beach, and matting and a sand cruiser ensuring surfers easily get on to the 3.6m soft surfboards.

Four trained team leaders are assigned to every group, operating in waist-deep water in broken waves, with a volunteer on the back of the board to ensure it's a safe experience. Between six and 20 volunteers a group make a human tunnel for the surfer to go through, so if a surfer does fall off, support is right at hand.

There are a host of volunteer positions, both landbased and in the water, for people of all ages and experience levels. It’s a relaxed and upbeat atmosphere – like a daytime beach party – with sausages, vegie burgers, lollies, fruit and drinks provided free of charge throughout the day to participants and volunteers. Former participant Cooper Smith will be attending in his role as DJ to really get the crowd pumped, along with other local musicians.

A range of merchandise will be available to buy, with proceeds channelled back to running the events and supporting the association. The events are held according to the adage ‘rain, hail or shine’ and will only be cancelled in dangerous conditions such as wild surf, strong wind and/or thunder storms.

The cost is $10 for participants to cover insurance and free for volunteers and carers. For further information and to register as either a volunteer or participant, visit the Facebook page @letsgosurfing

You can’t stop a wave, but you can ride one. If you never try, you’ll never know.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Former Peninsula couple find their perfect retirement residence

It took Heather and Ray Bowden two years to find the right residence to suit their retirement lifestyle. Originally from the Mornington Peninsula, they sought a spacious apartment close to the city and found it at Ardency Kennedy Place in Richmond’s serene and leafy Bendigo St. They will be among the first residents to move in when it’s completed this year on the former site of Channel 9 studios.

“We are currently living in St Kilda, before that we were on the Mornington Peninsula. We moved into a closer suburb 4km out of Melbourne and we decided that really did work for us,” Ray says. “For me it was a question of security first; a place where there’s a concierge. You’re well off the street and we like that idea. I think there will be lots of activities during the week, like bike-riding, exercise down along the Yarra. These sorts of activities are going to add a lot to our lifestyle.”

“We have purchased a three-bedroom plus study,” Heather says. “Ardency Kennedy

Place has all the facilities, including the outdoor gardens which other places we looked at didn’t have. This decision is an enrichment of our lives in a more secure environment which is close to the city.”

Residents will be spoilt with a vibrant seven-day social calendar ranging from meditation masterclasses to long lunches as well as a dedicated well-being co-ordinator. The 5-star luxury amenities and services include a rooftop terrace with magnificent city views, residents’ kitchen and dining room, a 30-seat private cinema, a café and provedore.

The state-of-the-art wellness centre features an indoor heated pool, gym, Pilates studio, day spa and hair salon, and a set of consulting rooms that can be used for visiting health professionals such as podiatrists and physiotherapists, as well as classes run in conjunction with our dedicated healthcare partnerships, such as hydrotherapy or clinical Pilates.

To find out more about Ardency Kennedy Place in Richmond, visit ardencykennedyplace.com.au

RETIREMENT LIVING REDEFINED

Enjoy the finer things in life? So do we. At Ardency Kennedy Place you’ll enjoy a lavish lifestyle that caters to your every need. Spacious apartments, five-star facilities and a hotelstyle concierge service are just the beginning. It’s urban luxury at its best for over-55s.

Hurry, only three city view apartments remain^

Two bedroom apartments from $990,000* Three bedroom apartments from $1,220,000*

Make your summer more fun than ever

Whether you’re holidaying here from elsewhere or taking a festive break in your backyard, the Mornington Peninsula is the place for unlimited fun over summer.

Regardless of whether your idea of a great holiday involves lying on the beach with a good book or something requiring a little more energy, you’re sure to find exactly what you crave right here. Whatever your preference, our beautiful Peninsula offers it all. Savour the tastes of the Peninsula and Frankston at any one of our wonderful cafes, restaurants, pubs, wineries, distilleries, cideries, farmgates and markets. Complete that mouthwatering dessert you’ve made for the family with fresh strawberries you’ve picked yourself, or set off on a truffle-hunting tour to find an ingredient that’s prized in the world’s top restaurants.

Over the following pages we’ve highlighted a variety of dining, retail and leisure activities in our annual Summer Fun feature. From fine dining at Stillwater Crittenden to cuddling a koala at Moonlit Sanctuary to stopping a mad scientist at Locked in Escape Rooms, there is so much fun for singles, couples, or the whole family to enjoy.

No matter how you choose to spend it, we hope you enjoy your holiday in our beautiful region. The team at Mornington Peninsula Magazine would like to wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and safe 2023.

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Value-packed family fun this summer at Sk8house

Break the boredom this summer with a fun family activity that kids and adults of all ages can enjoy. The weather may be unpredictable but Sk8house is open rain, hail or shine with general sessions, birthday parties, private functions and skate classes too.

It’s great to know that a day out doesn't have to break the bank. Sk8house general session entry is just $16 a person, with discounted group passes available for just $50 for four people, and $4 skate hire if required.

On top of that, additional skate

classes have been added to the schedule, and you can add on selected general sessions to your skate class for just $5 extra. This gives you up to six hours of skating fun from just $20 a person, including skate hire.

Visit www.sk8house.com.au for all session and class details, and visit their online Sk8shop to support this wonderful, family-owned local business today.

SK8HOUSE

A: 3/2 Amayla Cres, Carrum Downs

T: 9773 6799

E: info@sk8house.com.au

W: www.sk8house.com.au

Tour the world with Maree

Maree’s Tours made a welcome return in 2022.

Drawing on more than 20 years’ travel experience, Maree has exciting trips planned for 2023.

“Join me for a day trip to Alowyn Gardens, Mont de Lancey Homestead, Tramboat Twilight River Cruise, Port River Cruise, or High Tea at Overnewton Castle,” says Maree. “These are only some of the exciting day trips we have planned for the year. All include coach transport and lunch.

“If you want an extended trip away, consider 5 Day Adelaide, Mildura Silo Trip, Greek Island or Italy Cruise.” For full details check out Maree’s website (updated late January) or call Maree directly.

MAREE’S TOURS

T: 9750 0066 W: mareestours.com

Modern circus with a twist to delight all ages

Prepare to enter a world of entertainment where your imagination will soar like never before in this completely re-imagined modern circus spectacular. Silvers Circus has been a household name since the early ‘70s, and it’s returning to Mornington over summer with a 90-minute spectacular featuring performances by elite artists from around the globe. With motorbikes, comedy, daring aerialists and lots more, Silvers Circus is perfect for all ages. Did we mention we have two dinosaurs on stage? Well, we do, and we think you will want see them.

Whether it’s a date night, a family affair or the grandparents wanting to spoil the little ones, Silvers Circus is the entertainment destination for you. It’s on at 1158 Nepean Highway, Mornington from January 4-February 5. Ringside tickets are $60 for adults and $50 for children; elevated front view $50/$40; and elevated side view $35/$25. Buy tickets at Ticketmaster or phone 0413 880 044.

Discover Frankston City’s latest sculptures

Five new sculptures have been installed across Frankston City through a partnership between Frankston City Council and Sculpture by the Sea.

The works are As One (1), by R.M. (Ron) Gomboc, at the intersection of Seaford and Brunel roads in Seaford; Marsh Boat (2), by Ayad Alqaragholli, at the intersection of Cranbourne Rd and Baxter St; Vertical Wave (3), by Hikaru Yumura, at Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, 16N Cranbourne Rd, Frankston; Figurative Abstraction (4), by Norton Flavel, at the Pines Forest Aquatic Centre in Forest Drive, Frankston North; and Metamorphosis – Two Spirals (5), by Tetsuro Yamasaki, at the Frankston Library forecourt in Playne St.

The latest installations complement Frankston’s extensive range of public artworks, which include sculptures in parks and gardens and along the coastline, as well as its celebrated street murals. For more information, go to www. discoverfrankston.com/things-to-do/ sculptures; for details regarding Sculpture by the Sea and its upcoming exhibitions, go to www.sculpturebythesea.com. The council also hosts award-winning street art walking tours for anyone who would like to explore Frankston’s murals and hear the stories behind the artists and their work. Find out more at https://www. discoverfrankston.com/experience-streetart-in-frankston-city

mornington

Roar power: Dinosaurs are walking the Earth again – well, at Boneo Discovery Park anyway. A launch party for the park’s Dino sand sculpting exhibition last month provided visitors with their first chance to take a look at the work of some of the world’s best sand sculptors. The inclusion of animatronics dinosaurs has created a full sensory prehistoric experience not to missed.

Photos: Chendelle Kolasa and supplied

Can you afford not to have a boat-buyer’s advocate?

Seeking the guidance of a truly independent boat-buyer’s advocate is critical in buying the right boat. The team at High Tide Boating recently read a report of a new boat deemed so poorly constructed that it was “not fit for purpose” and “not of merchantable quality”. So whether you’re buying a secondhand boat or a new boat straight out of the factory, it’s always a case of buyer beware.

High Tide Boating owner Captain Ned has 38 years’ boating experience, including more than two decades in boating instruction, and the team have 70 years’ combined boating experience. “We’ve defined

three key elements important to buying a boat: lifestyle expectations, area of operation, and budget,” Ned says. “If you get these elements right, you’ll be enjoying boating for the rest of your life. Getting these elements off keel may end up with you owning the proverbial hole in the water you just keep tipping money and regret into.”

Buying a boat should be an amazing experience. The team at High Tide Boating have the passion and experience to help you find the right type of boat while navigating you away from buying a lemon.

HIGH TIDE BOATING

T: 0414 448 506

W: hightideboating.com.au

FB: hightideboatingAU

INSTA: hightideboatingau

mornington

Team up and challenge yourselves for fun

If the rainy weather is getting you down, or the sun is too harsh to contemplate going outside, there is an activity you can still enjoy with your family or friends.

Mornington is the home of the awardwinning escape room centre Locked in Escape Rooms. If you are feeling up to the challenge, get a team together to test your teamwork and puzzle-solving skills in one of the five exciting stories on offer. You and your team will become part of the story.

You could be astronauts trying to evacuate Mars before disaster strikes, wizard apprentices captured by an evil wizard, investigators entering a fisherman’s shack to solve the mystery of

the missing, laboratory assistants trying to save the world from the evil Professor Prism, or patients searching for the cure to the newest virus infection.

Locked in Escape Rooms provides a private experience for you. It will be just you and the team you bring along inside your room. There is a dedicated game master who will act as your guide, providing hints and support as required. You have an hour to try to complete the room, but are you up to the challenge of setting a record?

LOCKED IN ESCAPE ROOMS

A: 2/2 Carbine Way, Mornington

M: 0413 010 431

W: www.lockedinescaperooms.com.au

FB: Lockedinescaperooms

INSTA: lockedinescaperooms

Hundreds of works on display

Some 750 paintings including oils, acrylics, watercolours and pastels will be on display at the annual Mornington Rotary Club Art Show this month. Feature artists Gabrielle Young and Mike Kowalski, who are both regular exhibitors at the show, will be joined by four artisans who will present examples of their work, including ceramics and sculpture. This year’s judges are respected Melbourne artist Susan O’Brien and Peninsula photographer Yanni. Works by VCE students from Balcombe Grammar, Mornington Secondary College, Toorak College and Padua College will also be on display, illustrating the depth of talent and enthusiasm of senior students in exhibiting their artworks.

The show’s patron this year is The Bays Hospital Mornington, and the Rotary club said it was delighted to have the hospital “at the forefront of this important local community event”. The Bays Mornington Art Show Gala Opening Night is on Thursday, January 19, from 7-10pm. Tickets are $35 a person and include finger food, drinks, musical entertainment, and the opportunity to be the first to peruse the art on show and make a purchase. The tickets are available online at www. morningtonartshow.com.au

The Mornington Rotary Club Art Show is open daily from January 20-26 from 10am-5pm at the Peninsula Community Theatre, cnr Wilson Rd and Nepean Highway, Mornington. Entry is $10. Works will also be able to be viewed and bought online at the above website from January 22-29

PENINSULA COMMUNITY THEATRE

mornington PENINSULA

Mike K Flinders Overlook

Gabrielle Y Dragonfly Trio II

y our lo ca l wildlife s a n c t ua r y

y ou r local w i l d l i fe s a n c t u a r y

arts events leisure arts events leisure

Peninsula Film Festival returns to Rosebud Village Green

After a two-year absence from its home turf, the Peninsula Film Festival, which showcases some of Australia’s finest talent in film and television, will return to the Rosebud Village Green on Saturday, February 4.

This iconic three-day event starting on Friday, February 3, presented by Lexus of Brighton, will include special screenings, filmmaking workshops and the Short Film Festival featuring 20 short films from local and national creatives, as well as food trucks, local wine and beer vendors, and market stalls.

Legends of Australian film and TV including Dan MacPherson, Lachy Hulme, Michala Banas, Georgina Haig, Chrissie Swan and highly acclaimed screenwriter Shaun Grant will be among the stars supporting the industry’s up-and-coming talent,

with opportunities for directors, producers and actors to showcase their skills and passion with a top prize of $5000.

Festival director Steve Bastoni said he was excited to be back at the Village Green where it all started. “It’s our spiritual home,” Steve said. “We have an incredible judging panel, including arguably the most influential guy in film at the moment as a screenwriter and show runner, Shaun Grant. Shaun’s a Peninsula local; he wrote Nitram and the True History of the Kelly Gang among others and he’s about to become show runner of a new HBO Mad Max series.

“We also have Daniel MacPherson on the judging panel. He’s going to be joining me in a Q&A on the Friday night after we screen Poker Face on the big screen. It will be one of the few times Aussies can watch Poker Face on the big screen because

it was originally released on Stan, so we’re really looking forward to that too. It was quite an incredible experience making Poker Face. In the Q&A we’ll talk about all the behind-the-scenes goss. It’s a unique opportunity to hear behind the scenes how it came together, the challenges and how we overcame them.”

General admission Peninsula Film Festival tickets start at just $10, with all age groups welcome. Tickets are available to purchase at www. peninsulafilmfestival.com.au

Visitors over the age of 18 can enjoy all the Peninsula Film Festival has to offer in the VIP marquee, including complimentary drinks and food. A limited number of VIP tickets are available to purchase for $150.

For more information, go to www. peninsulafilmfestival.com.au

Photo: Yanni

Makers and producers call Dromana Habitat home

Dromana Habitat is an artisanal precinct celebrating the eclectic mix of makers and producers calling the Dromana Industrial Estate home and aiming to put this abundant pocket on the map.

You'll find a tasting room and bar from the sparkling masters at Rahona Winery, a hidden cellar door by family-run winery Rhino Tiger Bear, and a one-stop shop

for ocean-fresh offerings from Peninsula Fresh Seafood. Plant-lovers will enjoy Verdant Dwelling and the oh-soaromatic Red Hill Candle Co and Little Rebel Coffee.

Wander about the offerings at Bass Surfboards and Everwear Denim. Take home some delicious cheese from The Vegan Dairy, Boatshed Cheese and MP Cheese Merchants. You’ll also find the well-known TWØBAYS Brewing Co, Bass & Flinders, JimmyRum and Jetty Road

Brewery to explore.

Adventure awaits. Leave the freeway and find the source at Dromana Habitat. For business opening hours and encounters, go to www.dromanahabitat.com.au

DROMANA HABITAT

W: www.dromanahabitat.com.au

FB: dromanahabitat

INSTA: dromanahabitat_

arts events

Large-scale and high-quality Aboriginal art at Everywhen

Titled Grand Design, Everywhen Artspace's January show is a carefully curated selection of contemporary paintings on canvas and bark, as well as sculptures by leading artists from around Australia.

Everywhen's co-director Susan McCulloch says of particular interest is one of the last paintings by Kunmanara (Pepai) Jangala Carroll, supplied by the artist's estate at Ernabella Arts. In 2022, Sotheby's New York set an auction record for the artist. "We're very honoured to be showing such a rare and beautiful painting," says Susan.

Other notable works include the first collaborative Star & Moon Dreaming painting by famous Kimberley

90 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

artist Mabel Juli and her granddaughter Atlanta Mercy Umbulgurri.

Equally striking are large-scale vibrant works by APY artists including Alison Munti Riley, Atipalku Intjalki, Janice Stanley and Michelle Lewis from Ernabella Arts; Daisy Barney, Rosalind Tjanyari, Priscilla Singer, Raylene Walatinna and Yatjiki Cullinan from Iwantja Arts and Betty Campbell from Mimili Arts.

Textured ochre paintings from the Kimberley include those by the late Ned Johns from Wave Hill and Jimmy McKenzie, son of the late Queenie McKenzie and works from Papunya include a subtle painting by leading artist Candy Nelson Nakamara and a strikingly patterned work by younger generation artist Renita Brown Nungurrayi. Bush medicine and women's ceremonies feature in the lushly coloured bush plum works by Belinda Golder Kngwarreye, yam dreaming paintings by Jeannie Mills

Pwerle and other women artists from the Utopia region with botanical barks, ceremonial poles and Mimih Spirits from Arnhem Land and small sculptures by Mornington Peninsula-based Palawa artist Dominic White.

Grand Design runs until February 7.

EVERYWHEN ARTSPACE

A: 39 Cook St, Flinders

T: 5989 0496

E: gallery@everywhenart.com.au

W: www. everywhenart.com.au

Open daily during January from 11am-4pm

Pictured: Raylene Walatinna, Ngayuku Ngura (My Country), acrylic on linen, 198 x 198cm

Mabel Juli & Atlanta Mercy Umbulgurri, Garn’giny Ngarranggarni (Star & Moon Dreaming), ochre on linen, 120 x 120cm

Rediscover life’s joys through painting

Paint Your World helps children and adults reconnect with the joy in their lives through painting. Resident artist Michele Cleaver offers classes that allow you to create, play and feel while building confidence, developing new skills, raising self-esteem, and allowing for self-expression. This can enable positive change in your life.

Michele’s motto is “Learn to Paint; Anyone Can”. No skills are needed, as Michele believes where there is a will, there is a way. “Frequently I hear people say, ‘I can’t paint’ or ‘I failed art at school’ – but you can; you just need to be shown how. My teaching style is step by step in a relaxed, nurturing and non-judgmental environment.”

Available at the beautiful studio in Mornington, classes are suitable for first-time painters along with anyone wanting to brush up on their skills. Sessions include our fun Paint’n’Sip class, kids’ and adults’ workshops, along with classes for NDIS participants. Groups will enjoy getting together for a private session, which is suitable for corporate team events, as well as hen parties, birthdays, or family gatherings. Bookings are now open for 2023.

PAINT YOUR WORLD

A: 15/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington

M: 0417 425 116

W: www.paintyourworld.com.au

FB: paintyourworld.au

INSTA: paintyourworld.au

Find the right heating option for your home

Atmosphere Indoor Outdoor is a small Carrum Downs business with more than 30 years’ experience in heating across the Mornington Peninsula.

A certified dealer of some of the largest fireplace brands in Australia, we have a premium range of fireplaces that are perfect for any of your home heating requirements. However, our products don’t end there – we also sell fire pits, barbecues, fuel, and our new 100 per cent natural firelighters, which are made here in our warehouse.

Our premium range of firewood is trusted in some of the most popular restaurants on the Peninsula. Perfect for pizza ovens, smokers, grills and any other cooking application, there's no better wood.

If you're looking for a new addition to your house, our modern flames electric fires are perfect for any modern home, with no need for wood or gas or the hassle of installing a flue. Electric fireplaces provide the complete home ambience aesthetic that will spruce up any room. With just the touch of a button you can power up your new electric fire and switch between multiple colour options and heating settings, making it perfect for whatever you're looking for.

Check out our website to find out the right electric fire for you.

ATMOSPHERE INDOOR OUTDOOR

A: 12/32 Silkwood Rise, Carrum Downs

T: 0418 170 400 or 0428 189 978

W: www.atmospherenow.com

INSTA: atmosphere_fireplaces

Outdoor Sculptures Australia

“Making everyday things larger”

Calling all emerging creative writers

If you have a creative story brewing in your heart or head, it’s time to write it out and then polish it for your entry in The Sorrento Creative Writing Prize. This is a new writing prize offered by philanthropist Helen Sykes in support of the Mornington Peninsula’s inaugural Sorrento Writers Festival to be held in April. This prize celebrates the festival and its mission to bring writers and readers together.

Helen is the director of Future Leaders, a philanthropic initiative about leadership and the future of Australia. It seeks to involve, inform and inspire Australians. The Sorrento Creative Writing Prize is one of two writing prizes Helen has created

in support of writers, the other being The Writing Prize, a prize designed to encourage younger Australians to write about significant societal issues.

The Sorrento Creative Writing Prize is open to Australian citizens or residents aged 18 and over who have not had their work published by a commercial publisher. The winner will receive $5000 and their writing will be featured at the 2023 Sorrento Writers Festival. Entry is free, and there is a limit of one entry a person. Entries must be submitted by March 1, so instead of reading your way through summer, try your hand at summer writing instead.

For more information about The Sorrento Creative Writing Prize and The Writing Prize, go to www.futureleaders.com.au

arts events leisure

Stunning showstopper

This ‘showstopper’ driftwood pelican statue is exclusively on display to view and buy at Mark and Cherie Poulter’s delightful Veraison Restaurant at 1889 Point Nepean Rd, Tootgarook. Produced by Mount Martha artist Miffy Pittaway, it’s one of 12 items remaining.

The limited-edition driftwood-inspired pelican stand-up statue is beautifully encrusted and adorned with seashells Miffy has collected over four decades. All the shells she uses contain no living sea creatures, are not critically endangered or threatened, and are non-exotic species. The shells are exquisitely decorated with natural sea glass collected along Fossils Beach in Victoria and combined with prepurchased light green bottled sea glass and authentic nautical rope.

As with all Miffy’s art, this pelican will help create a wonderful seaside ambience in your home, complementing your space during summer and helping keep the winter blues at bay. So pop into Veraison Restaurant today for a beach-inspired artwork from She Shell Art.

SHE SHELL ART

M: 0400 178 635

E: miffypittaway@live.com.au

W: www.sheshellartbymiffy.com

W: sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites.com

FB: Miffyshells

INSTA: sheshellartbymiffy

Driftwood Lobster

Evocative Flinders coastal garden opens to public

With an experimental mix of wind-tossed native and exotic grasses alongside colourful perennials, a delightful garden set on an exposed hilltop paddock in Flinders will open to the public on the weekend of January 21-22.

The Family Garden, at 2351 Flinders-Mornington Rd, Flinders, is garden designer, horticulturist and revegetation expert Jo Ferguson’s own home. With sweeping views out to Bass Strait, the garden is filled with coastal colours, movement and form.

A pair of character-filled 80-year-old olive trees transplanted from South Australia add maturity to the four-year-old garden. It is a bee garden, a habitat garden and a food production garden, with chickens and many young trees.

The garden is open from 10am-4.30pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Entry is $10 for adults, $6 for students/under-18s free via Trybooking or at the gate. Tea and coffee will be available.

Find further details at www.opengardensvictoria.org.au

ExquisiteHandmadeart

ByMiffyPittawayofSheShellArt

SeagrassSea-Shell Mirror Frame

Exclusively at Veraison Restaurant, 1889 Point Nepean Rd, Tootgarook www.veraisonrestaurant.com.au | P. 5985 8888

She Shell Art By Miffy | www.sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites.com | P. 0400 178 635

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Sponsors welcomed back for Mount Eliza fun run

The popular MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival is all about ‘community’ – whether that is the blood cancer community; the kids, parents and families in our community; the amazing grassroots community clubs; or those ever-resilient businesses in our community.

“Not only are we extremely fortunate to be well supported by the Mornington Peninsula community, but our sponsors have been there for us despite the challenging economic times that we find ourselves in,” says festival director Geoff Nyssen.

The 2023 festival will again be wonderfully supported by Gold Sponsors Ritchies Mount Eliza, Charlton Degg, and Peninsula Grammar; Silver Sponsors Peninsula Vet Care, PARC, Peninsula Hot Springs, The Smile Place, Bluegum, Eview Mount Eliza, 3MP, DX Design and Media Words; and Media Partner Mornington Peninsula Magazine.

The festival has raised more $320,000 for Snowdome Foundation to fund muchneeded blood cancer research and raise awareness. “We continue to be so well supported by our generous sponsors, the local community and supporters further afield,” Geoff says. “It’s a privilege to be able to host the much-loved festival for another year. We are all looking forward to another fun-filled event.”

The seventh MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival is on Sunday, March 19. Visit mymounteliza.org.au to register and follow @MYMountEliza on Facebook and Instagram to get involved.

Flinders Fringe Festival showcases Peninsula talent

A new three-day arts festival will take over the coastal village of Flinders from February 17-19. After a few tough years for the arts, the inaugural Flinders Fringe Festival will create an exciting opportunity for artists and communities across the Mornington Peninsula to come together in celebration.

The festival features original work by established and emerging artists with a personal connection to the Peninsula. Flinders Fringe is supported by a community-driven committee under the leadership of artistic director and Shoreham resident Melissa Jackson. The diverse program includes live music, a four-day community choir workshop, sculpture, soundscapes, ocean dancing, arts exhibitions, artefact-making and poetry workshops, cultural education, guided walks, and more. There are a mix of free and ticketed events for all ages. Not to be missed are Lady Fox’s cabaret, blues, and burlesque show Nocturnal

Fever; emerging singer/songwriters Holy Hebe and Sunny Reyne; the Bracken exhibition by documentary photographer Noa Smith Fletcher and Gunditjmara Kirrae Wurrung-Bundjalung artist Lionel Lauch; and Changing Seas, an original music performance by Engla with Tasma Pittock’s stunning video projections of the Flinders coastline and surrounding area. Tom Barton, an adventurous contemporary vocalist, composer and performer, will present vocal looping, electronic processing, improvisation, lyrics, wordless singing and extended vocal techniques.

The festival has a strong emphasis on immersive and interactive community fun, diversity and inclusion, accessibility, and celebration of the beauty of Bunurong/ Boon Wurrung Country and waterways.

For the full program and tickets, head to www.flindersfringe.com.au, and follow the Flinders Fringe Festival on Instagram @flinders_fringe or Facebook @FlindersFringeFestival for more information and announcements.

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Audience favourite to grace Frankston stage

Silvie Paladino is known for having one of the greatest voices in Australia. Famous for her musical theatre performances, most recently as The Fairy Godmother in Cinderella, she is an audience favourite on Carols by Candlelight.

Having toured nationally with her own show, sung with symphony orchestras around Australia and featured at major sporting events, Peninsula audiences have the opportunity to experience Silvie’s soaring voice and emotional delivery at an upcoming performance at Frankston Arts Centre.

Returning to the main theatre as part of the 2023 Daytime Music + Theatre program, Silvie promises “a day of music for the soul” with The Voice of Silvie Paladino.

Accompanied by David Cameron on piano, audiences can expect to enjoy songs they know and love, including I Dreamed a Dream (Les Misérables), Something Wonderful (The King and I), There is Music in You (Cinderella) and Memory (CATS). With additional songs of inspiration, plus classics by Barbra Streisand, Shirley Bassey and Eva Cassidy, this will be an unmissable show.

Daytime Music + Theatre presents The Voice of Silvie Paladino at Frankston Arts Centre on Friday, February 3, at 10.30am and 1.30pm Tickets are available at thefac. com.au or by calling 9784 1060.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE

A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston T: 9784 1060

W: www.thefac.com.au

FB: FrankstonArtsCentre INSTA: the_fac

community focussed gallery, supporting both established and emerging local artists.

The Teal House Gallery opened last December, curated by Steve Broughton, Melissa Sotelo & Dr Brigid Burke, having had a number of successful exhibitions featuring local & emerging artists throughout the year.

The Teal house also offers a great creative space for workshops such as life drawing classes, contemporary music and vision (seensound.com) mentoring, art for therapy and Fabric Collage workshops.

In the new year curator Steven Broughton will be running classes for contemporary landscape and seascape with oils.

Feel free to contact us if you have a workshop you would like to offer our community at the Teal House Gallery.

The Teal House Gallery is open: Tues, Wed & Fri - 12pm to 5pm | Thur 12pm to 8pm | Sat 2pm to 5pm

A

SUNDAY JANUARY 1 –

THURSDAY JANUARY 19

Peninsula Summer Music Festival 2023

contemporary and classical music permeating the vibrant and beautiful Mornington Peninsula; for all events across the Peninsula visit www.peninsulafestival.com.au

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 4 –SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5

Silvers Circus re-imagined modern circus spectacular featuring performances by elite artists from around the world; Bata Shoes showgrounds, 1158 Nepean Highway, Mornington, tickets $25-$60, www.silverscircus.com.au

FRIDAY JANUARY 6

Sorrento Art Show Gala Opening

celebrating art and music with performance from Melba Opera Trust, Sorrento Community Centre, Morce Ave, Sorrento, 6pm, tickets $95, www.trybooking.com/CDRDC

THURSDAY JANUARY 19

FRIDAY JANUARY 20 –

THURSDAY JANJUARY 26

SATURDAY JANUARY 21

Mornington

Art Show Gala Opening Night

peruse and buy works from annual art show; Peninsula Community Theatre, cnr Wilson Rd & Nepean Highway, Mornington; 7-10pm; tickets $35 a person includes finger food, drinks and entertainment; www.morningtonartshow.com.au/gala-opening-2023

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 3

The Voice of Silvie Paladino songs include I Dreamed a Dream (Les Miserable), Memory (CATS) and Something Wonderful (The King and I), Frankston Arts Centre, 10.30-11.50am and 1.302.50pm sessions, tickets $20-$22, www.thefac.com.au

Mornington Art Show

800 paintings and photographs to view and buy; Peninsula Community Theatre, cnr Wilson Rd and Nepean Highway, Mornington; daily from 10am-5pm. www.morningtonartshow.com.au

Food Yard Night Market

up to 12 street food and drink trucks, free entry, onsite parking; great night for family and friends, 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington, 5-8pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/food-yard

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 3 –SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5

Peninsula Film Festival includes short film festival with up to 20 shortlisted films screened outdoors, judged live; full program, locations and tickets at www.peninsulafilmfestival.com.au

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5

Moorooduc Station Market

460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc; 60-stall boutique handmade maker and street food market at historic Moorooduc station; great family day; 9am-1pm; www.unrivalledevents.com.au/ moorooduc-station-market

DAYTIME MUSIC + THEATRE

THE VOICE OF SILVIE PALADINO

Friday 3 February 10.30am & 1.30pm Tickets: $20 - $22 Don’t miss this delightful performance as Silvie sings all the songs you know and love! Book at thefac.com.au or 03 9784 1060

SATURDAY JANUARY 7 &

SUNDAY JANUARY 8

Open Gardens Victoria two Fiona Brockhoff-designed private gardens – Karkalla in Sorrento and Samantha in Portsea, 10am-4.30pm; addresses and tickets www.opengardensvictoria.org.au

SATURDAY JANUARY 21 & SUNDAY JANUARY 22

Open Gardens Victoria Family Gardens set in paddock on hill on small farm exposed to coastal elements; 2351 FlindersMornington Rd, Flinders; 10am-4.30pm; tickets via trybooking or at gate; www.opengardensvictoria.org.au

SATURDAY JANUARY 7 –

SUNDAY JANUARY 15

Sorrento Art Show

exciting collection of oils, watercolours, acrylics, photographs, ink on paper and mixed media, includes new display of ceramics and pottery; Sorrento Community Centre, Morce Ave, Sorrento, www.sorrentoartshow.com.au

THURSDAY JANUARY 26

Mt Martha South Beach Market

spectacular boutique street food/drink truck and handmade makers market overlooking ocean, Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha, 10am-2pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/south-beach-market

www.mpmag.com.au

FRIDAY JANUARY 13

Soul Night Market

festive foodie and makers market, Dromana Estate, 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong, 5-9pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/ soul-night-market-dromana-estate

UNTIL SUNDAY JANUARY 29

Mordialloc Christmas Summer Music Festival

Peter Scullin Reserve, Mordialloc; great rides for kids and whole family, showbags, carnival games and delicious food; www.smartamusements.com.au/mordialloc

events leisure

UNTIL TUESDAY FEBRUARY 7

The Summer Show 2023 Grand Design carefully curated selection of contemporary paintings on canvas and bark, as well as sculptures by leading Australian artists; Everywhen Artspace, 39 Cook St, Flinders; open daily 11am-4pm; www.everywhenart.com.au

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 17 –

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 19

Flinders Fringe Festival more than 30 events at local venues, includes visual arts, performance, music, community, workshops, literature and guided walks; map, venues and further information at www.flindersfringe.com.au

Over 400 listings online

Use the QR Code to view online Upload your own listing online for FREE. Featured listings online and in print just $55 each. www.mpmag.com.au

To celebrate this prime time of the year in our beautiful region, Mornington Peninsula Magazine is this month showcasing the southern tip of the Peninsula with our special Sorrento and Portsea feature.

Set between the back beaches and Port Phillip and renowned for magnificent real estate, delicious wining and dining and places of historical significance and interest, it is easy to see why visitors come in their droves to stay in the Sorrento and Portsea region over the summer months.

But there’s a lot more to do than just take in the scenery. What about pampering yourself at C&E Beauty on the main strip, enjoying a live band or solo act at Tom Katz at Sorrento RSL, or treating yourself to some well-earned retail therapy at Provincial Home Living.

With some of the most stunning walking trails and landscapes you could imagine, Sorrento and Portsea are definitely well worth spending some time in this summer.

Testimonial:

“Sorrento Tutoring Services has been a saviour for our son in grade 5 who was behind in writing skills, mathematics & English.

In the past six months of tutoring we have seen him advance in all areas. He is now writing with ease with all letters and numbers in the correct formation, mathematics is now enjoyable and he can now solve maths problems above his year level, and he now has developed an understanding of English. We also noticed how much his confidence has grown with school and all round.

We could not recommend Sorrento Tutoring Services highly enough.”

Sessions conducted at Sorrento Community Centre

Open from: 9am-5pm | Phone: 0491 645 229

Email: sorrentotutoring@gmail.com

Enjoy a walk to support mental health

Sorrento Rotary is holding its third Lift the Lid Walk for mental health on Sunday, February 19, at Point Nepean National Park to raise much-needed money for Australian Rotary Health. Join the walk with family and friends and stay on until lunchtime to enjoy food vans and live music, or pack your own picnic basket and take in the serenity and entertainment.

Australian Rotary Health supports work on a range of health problems but specialises in mental health, and this year it’s focusing on youth mental illness research. It is one of the largest independent supporters of mental illness research in Australia, providing more than $50 million for projects such as teen Mental Health First Aid and Cool Kids. Next month’s walk is deliberately not a race but an opportunity to get together and chat while raising awareness of the serious mental health issues facing our communities, schools, homes and workplaces. Now more than ever we need to break down the sigma that continues to plague our society so that people are more comfortable discussing and seeking help for their mental health issues.

There are starting times from 8am, so plan your walk to suit your own circumstances to the start/finish line in time for a relaxing lunch and live music. Ventura is offering a free bus service between the Stables and Point Nepean if you wish to walk one way or get tired.

For more information about Australian Rotary Health, visit www.australianrotaryhealth. org.au

ROTARY CLUB OF SORRENTO

T: 0408 635 107

W: www.rotaryclubofsorrento.com

FB: rotaryclubofsorrento

Summer comes alive at Tom Katz

Looking to wrap up your weekend on a high note with some of the best live music around? Then make tracks for Tom Katz at the Sorrento Portsea RSL.

As well as honouring our veterans on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day each year, the not-for-profit volunteer-run RSL has a major role to play in the community and is a strong supporter and driver of fundraising appeals for floods, droughts and bushfires. It also has a long association with live music.

In the 1970s, Tom Katz was a hugely popular music venue at the RSL, where such heavyweights as AC/ DC, Masters Apprentices, and Max Merritt & the Meteors played to packed houses. In January 2018, the RSL began putting on weekly live Sunday music shows promoting local talent. Then a year later, the RSL reinvigorated the Tom Katz brand

from the ‘70s.

Since then a new stage and beer garden have been added, and construction of a new outdoor undercover entertainment area has recently been completed along with a billiard room.

So head along to Tom Katz every Sunday from 4-7pm and support live music on the Peninsula while having a rockin’ good time. For gigs and ticket sales, go to TOMKATZ@SorrentoPortseaRSL

TOM KATZ

A: 1 Hurley St, Sorrento T: 5984 2886

W: www.tomkatz.com.au

TOMKATZ.COM.AU

FB: tomkatzlive

mornington PENINSULA

Property advocate gives you the edge

Living the Melbourne-Mornington Peninsula combination is something property advocate Nick Colavecchio has experienced and enjoyed for 18 years, personally with Daniela and their children, and professionally as a business owner.

Nick helps buyers search, evaluate and secure real estate across Melbourne’s inner and middle suburbs and the Mornington Peninsula. He is fully licensed, insured and certified with the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.

Nick’s support can save clients significant time and money and smooth out the emotional roller-coaster many often experience. It can also mean having access to properties not otherwise available and the difference between securing or missing out on a property.

Nick takes great care to fully understand and respond to the specific requirements of each buyer client. It typically includes:

• Identifying suitable advertised, off-market and targeted buying opportunities;

• Property inspections, assessments and short-listing;

• Co-ordinating third party due-diligence; and,

Helping buyers search, evaluate and secure real estate in Melbourne and on the Mornington Peninsula.

• Strategic representation and negotiations (private sales and auctions).

Whether you’re looking to buy a property now or later on, Nick would welcome the opportunity to discuss your situation and how he can provide you with valuable support and an edge in today’s competitive and challenging property market. Nick

For the love of yoga

It’s a common story that people turn to yoga in times of stress or adversity. Maggie, owner of Sorrento’s Ocean Beach Yoga studio, did just that after a sailing accident in 2000 saw her lose the fingers on her dominant hand. “I embarked on a journey to heal hand, head and heart,” she says. “Daily yoga became an essential part of my life.”

Maggie began teaching Bikram Hot Yoga in 2005. She owned two busy studios in Melbourne for more than a decade before being drawn to the ocean here in 2016. She has studied Vinyasa and Hatha yoga in India, as well as Yin and Restorative Yoga and Meditation.

Since opening Sorrento’s only dedicated yoga space in the summer of 2019, Maggie has attracted a community of yogis from beginners to devotees. Everyone is made welcome at this tranquil oasis

nestled in the tea-trees. The energy of the waves crashing just 400m away and the smell of salt air adds to the experience of practising yoga here. “We believe yoga is for everybody; a practice to be enjoyed by all ages, shapes, sizes and levels of ability.”

From dynamic Vinyasa classes to mellow gentle Hatha and Yin classes, the schedule of daily classes will help you cultivate strength, suppleness, and mindfulness. Book online but attend in person. “Online yoga is not the same as being in the studio,” Maggie says. “In-person yoga provides the care and support required for a safe practice, as well as rebuilding a sense of community.”

OCEAN BEACH YOGA

A: Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento

T: 0409 409 252

W: www.oceanbeachyoga.com.au

FB: oceanbeachyoga

INSTA: oceanbeachyogasorrento

Relax. Pamper. Beautify

Treat yourself or someone you love at C&E Sorrento Skin & Beauty, with a host of services designed to enhance your natural beauty and create a wonderful state of bliss.

Entrust your skin to the specialists. Let Cara and Ella work their magic as you take a welldeserved time out from the chaos of daily life. They are dedicated to helping people feel amazing, relaxed, and gorgeous with their holistic approach to beauty.

Choose from an array of services – enjoy next-level brows and lashes, a glowing tan, silky smooth hair removal, or your choice of massage. Give your hands and feet some love with C&E Sorrento Skin & Beauty’s divine manicures and pedicures, or pamper your skin with a facial, LED therapy, or skin needling, or try our facial of the future: Oxygeneo 3-in-1 Super Facial.

You’ll also find a range of high-quality skincare and make-up products available for purchase online or in store, including brands such as Youngblood, Aspect, and Three Warriors.

Breathe new life into your skin and body. Make an appointment with the beauty experts at C&E Sorrento Skin & Beauty today and start summer with a head-turning glow. Visit the website for opening hours and to book online.

C&E SORRENTO SKIN & BEAUTY

A: 2/56 Kerferd Ave, Sorrento

T: 5984 0124

W: www.sorrentoskinandbeauty.com.au

FB: sorrentoskinandbeauty

INSTA: sorrento_skin_beauty

Sizzlin’ summer sounds: The 2022 Queenscliff Music Festival on November 25-27 drew music-lovers from far and wide. The dancing and good times did not let up over the three days as young and old were treated to a wonderful range of acts and entertainment that included Baker Boy, John Butler, The Teskey Brothers, and Vika & Linda. Stay logged on to www.qmf.net.au for 2023 line-up announcements and tickets.

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA

Photos: Queenscliff Music Festival

the business

New Year’s resolution: a new-look logo

It’s that time again. Along with the New Year comes the mandatory New Year’s resolution, says Priscilla, who heads up LogoLogix in bayside. Freshen up your look with a new corporate identity or refresh your presentation suite with newlook brochures, business cards or apparel. Most importantly, your business identity will be bespoke with a logo and look that is unique to you and your business. With her invaluable years of experience in

designing logos, corporate identities and packaging for all scale of business operations, Priscilla is passionate about her role in creating an outstanding, personalised identity for you and your business.

Feel free to check our website, drop us a line or call LogoLogix for your corporate identity needs.

LOGOLOGIX

E: contact@logologix.com.au

T: 9598 6995

W: www.logologix.com.au

FB: Logo Logix

Proud Sponsor

Frankston Brekky Club needs your support

The Frankston Brekky Club has been supporting vulnerable people in our community for more than 20 years by providing a regular meal that many simply cannot afford. Since 2018, it has operated from Chisholm Institute’s Bunurong Restaurant from 7-8am every weekday, and in the current economic environment it has never been more important.

We no longer just cater to the homeless community; the worsening cost of living crisis means that more and more people are becoming food insecure. Once the rent and bills are paid, far too many people in our community have no money left for food.

We have received terrific support from the community and recently welcomed a commitment from the State Government to provide additional funding, but the reality is we need more help. From donations to volunteers to basic goods like tea, coffee, bread, eggs and beans, we need more help to cater to the growing demand.

For many, the Frankston Brekky Club is more than just a place to have a meal; it’s somewhere people can

come to connect with others, have a chat or just have someone listen – simple needs that most of us take for granted.

We know there are so many people out there doing it tough at the moment, but for those who have the means, we would appreciate your assistance. If you would like to support Frankston Brekky Club and make a real difference to the lives of the most vulnerable in our community, please email trudypoole@hotmail.com

Open to all off the beach monohulls. This is a regatta not to be missed!

PENINSULA

TRUDY POOLE – president, Frankston Brekky Club

Trusted and sensible family law advice

Vic Rajah Family Lawyers specialises in all areas of family law, offering tailored advice on all family issues to help achieve favourable and commercial outcomes.

Experience and expertise are key at Vic Rajah Family Lawyers. Firm Principal, Vic Rajah is one of Melbourne’s leading family law practitioners and heads the team alongside well-respected Peninsula-based lawyer Helen Roach. Clients are their No.1 priority and their focus on attention to detail and quality of service is unparalleled.

The firm prides itself as the leading provider of family law services on the Mornington Peninsula. By consulting Vic Rajah Family Lawyers, you are

benefiting from a wealth of experience.

Vic is proud of his team’s ability to provide unrivalled service to clients, and anyone who is in the separation process and is dissatisfied with their current representation should come in for a 30-minute free consultation to see how Vic Rajah Family Lawyers can do it better.

Vic Rajah Family Lawyers has offices in Mount Eliza, Melbourne CBD and Sandringham, so call today.

VIC RAJAH FAMILY LAWYERS

A: 1-3 Davies Ave, Mount Eliza

A: 18/350 Queen St, Melbourne

A: Suite 13, 1/296 Bay Rd, Cheltenham T: 9781 4222 W: vicrajah.com.au

health, beauty, fashion

Every year, Pantone announces its Color of the Year – and this year it’s Viva Magenta.

PANTONE Viva Magenta 18-1750 vibrates with vim and vigour. It is a shade rooted in nature, descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.

Viva Magenta 18-1750 is powerful and empowering. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a standout statement. It welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a colour that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real,” says Pantone Color Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman. “PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta descends from the red family and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known. Rooted in the primordial, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanises our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.” Expect to see Viva Magenta across various physical and digital design media throughout the year.

Learn Tai Chi

Enjoy the calmness and stillness of

Classes held in Mt Martha, Tyabb, Somerville and Mornington. All levels of experience and ability welcome.

For

Our most common

cancer is the most preventable

Skin cancer is the region’s most common yet preventable cancer, with sun exposure accounting for about 99 per cent of non-melanoma skin cancers (1). Given an estimated two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 70 (2), GenesisCare Frankston’s radiation oncologist Dr Maree Sexton is urging all Peninsula residents to be vigilant about sun safety this summer.

“My goal is to educate the community about adequate sun safety to protect Australians from the sun and their risk of developing skin cancer,” Dr Sexton says.

For residents living with non-melanoma skin cancer, innovative radiation therapy may be suitable. Dr Sexton says GenesisCare Frankston is currently the only centre providing radiation therapy on the Mornington Peninsula to both public and private patients. “It's incredibly important that we are all vigilant about sun protection, and the Cancer Council Australia's iconic Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek & Slide message has never been so important.”

Radiation therapy is one of a range of treatment options

for non-melanoma skin cancer patients; others include surgical excision, topical creams, Mohs surgery, curettage and electrodessication. As a non-invasive option, it can help to treat small lesions in hard to access areas and can also be effective in treating larger areas of the body with extensive skin field cancerisation.

GENESISCARE FRANKSTON

A: 5 Susono Way, Frankston

T: 9781 8200

W: www.genesiscare.com/au/our-centres/frankston

FB: GenesisCare

INSTA: genesiscareau

(1). Armstrong BK. How sun exposure causes skin cancer. In: Hill D, Elwood JM, English DR, eds. Prevention of skin cancer. Dordrecht, the Netherlands:: Kluwer Academic Publishers, 2004, pp. 89-116:pp.89-116.

(2). Keratinocyte cancer incidence in Australia: a review of population-based incidence trends and estimates of lifetime risk - https://www.phrp.com.au/issues/ march-2022-volume-32-issue-1/keratinocyte-cancerincidence-in-australia-a-review-of-population-basedincidence-trends-and-estimates-of-lifetime-risk/

Dr. Maree Sexton from GenesisCare Frankston

health beauty fashion

Your comfort and care are Dr Maddy’s priorities

This month, Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic welcomes a new dentist to the team, Dr Maddy. Born and raised on the Mornington Peninsula, Maddy completed her Bachelor of Biomedicine at The University of Melbourne before crossing the Nullarbor to undertake her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia. After graduation, she gained experience on the southern coast of Western Australia before returning home to join the team at Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic.

Maddy is a calm and gentle dentist who is passionate about creating a comfortable environment for all her patients. She ensures she stays up to date with the latest dental advancements and is a member of the Australian Dental Association and the Australasian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics.

When away from the clinic, Maddy loves all things fitness and outdoors, and is always on the search for her next adventure.

Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic has cared for generations of families for more than 40 years, priding themselves on creating a welcoming environment where patients feel well looked after and thoroughly informed about their dental health care.

As the longest established dental clinic in Mornington, they are part of the community. Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic are proud sponsors of local events and sporting clubs including the Mornington Football Netball Club Inc.

Looking after your teeth should be a priority, not an afterthought. If you’re overdue for a check-up or have been putting off treatment, don’t delay. Call Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic today.

MORNINGTON PENINSULA DENTAL

CLINIC

A: 117 Tanti Ave, Mornington T: 5975 5944

W: www.morningtondental.com.au

FB: Morningtonpeninsuladental

INSTA: morningtondentalclinic

Whatever your Future You, whatever you want to achieve in your health goals in 2023, PARC can help you get there. Let’s kick-start 2023 with a focus on your health and wellbeing.

We’re here to help, join today!

parcfrankston l 9781 8444

Cnr Cranbourne Road and Olive Grove, Frankston www.parcfrankston.com.au/memberships

112 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Two boutiques with you in mind

With two boutique locations on the Mornington Peninsula, Indigo Threads has fast become the go-to fashion hub for those who love to dress on trend for both work and play at an affordable price.

Encouraging shoppers to embrace their individuality and operating by the motto Rock What You've Got, Indigo Threads offers a uniquely personal shopping experience tailored to the needs of each individual.

With new summer fashion arriving daily, Indigo Threads stocks a wide range of products, from boho dresses and comfy leisure wear to standout fashion pieces, shoes and accessories, including locally sourced brands such as Jovie, Lux400 and Crystal Caravan.

Both Somerville and Mornington boutiques also offer one-on-one personal styling sessions by appointment for those lacking the confidence when it comes to finding the perfect fit.

The team at Indigo Threads look forward to seeing you this summer in the boutiques designed with you in mind.

INDIGO THREADS

A: Shop 11/49 Eramosa Road West, Somerville

A: 53 Main St, Mornington

T: 0406 648 887

W: www.indigothreads.com.au

Five tips for a happier 2023

Congratulations on making it through the past few years! Many of us have emerged from the pandemic feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. That’s why we asked qualified counsellors Eryka Rhodes and Benjamin Watkins, from Benjamin Watkins Counselling & Coaching, for some tips to make 2023 a happier, healthier year. Here’s their advice:

1. Talk about the heavy stuff. Counsellors will listen to your anxieties without judgement and share strategies to help you cope better.

2. Acknowledge that the past years have been tough and allow yourself to express your emotions.

3. Use humour. A smile can lift even the heaviest of moods.

4. Set aside time in your life for the people who lift you up.

5. Making the effort to take action can be challenging, but the reward is always worth it.

Would you like to action steps to feel better in your life, where you don’t have to do it alone? Visit Benjamin and Eryka’s websites or give them a call for more information, advice, mental health tips, and how you can implement change in your life.

BENJAMIN WATKINS

T: 8765 2477

W: www.benjaminwatkins.com.au INSTA: benjaminwatkinscounselling

ERYKA RHODES

T: 0414 738 048

W: www.lookingforwardcounselling.com.au INSTA: lookingforwardcounselling_

Flinders Dental can take care of all your general dental needs.

Counselling should be more than support during or after a crisis. Instead, it can be a place to go to improve yourself at any time.

Benjamin works with people to improve their performance in areas such as being a better partner, parent, student, professional or athlete.

Located in Mt Eliza & Balnarring, Eryka is a qualified, registered counsellor with over 20 years experience in the mental health space.

Located in Frankston, Benjamin is available for in-person or online appointments and offers FREE 15 min intro calls.

To book, head to his website www.lookingforwardcounselling.com.au eryka@lookingforwardcounselling.com.au P. 0414 738 048

Eryka specialises in adolescents and couples; supporting clients experiencing anxiety, stress, depressive states, self harm and relational conflict. With a client-centred focus Eryka draws on therapies including mindfulness and hypnotherapy, and is available both in-person & online www.benjaminwatkins.com.au benjamin@benjaminwatkins.com.au P. 8765 2477

At Flinders, all our dental professionals are highly skilled and put our patient’s needs first. Focusing on preventative care and minimal intervention, Flinders Dental may just be the move you need to make.

Children unsure about the dentist? We have clinicians who have over 5 years of experience making dental visits a positive and safe environment for children to grow to trust and look forward to their dental visit.

Are you looking for a new Dentist?

Aries: 2023 starts with a focus on your position in society. This could be your professional reputation, your role as a parent, your marriage or your life direction. New Year resolutions are likely connected to finding more purpose. Objectives set now are likely to take off by midMarch when Mercury enters your Zodiac Sign. And you have a date with destiny from mid-July when the Moon’s Nodes enter Aries. Seeds planted at the start of the year come to fruition in July. Your personal reputation, already enhanced by lucky Jupiter in Aries, takes off as the Nodes travel through your Sign until 2025.

Taurus: Your date with destiny continues in January and for much of 2023. When you look back to May 2018, you can see clearly just how much your life has changed. More changes are in the stars. This may be in the form of a trip overseas, or visitors from a foreign country. You are not usually known for swapping your bedroom slippers for runners, but this year sees you do just this. You may receive surprising news in April, or experience a fateful encounter. And a Lunar Eclipse in your Zodiac Sign on October 29 triggers further ‘aha’ moments.

Gemini: After a relatively slow start to the year, the planet of action Mars changes direction in your Zodiac Sign, revving you up until March 25. So take a moment in January to consider the changes that you would like to implement. How can you best invest your time and energy in 2023? Or how can you make the most of the talents – and any dollars – that you have inherited? Transformative Pluto enters Aquarius in March, calling on Geminis to dig a little deeper than usual. An overseas connection may prove transformative.

Cancer: 2023 sees your focus on partnerships continue. The planet Pluto shifts from the relationship sector of your Solar Chart into the area of joint resources. January sees you get serious about marriage. If a relationship has been on the rocks, then it’s make-or-break time. March is a turning point. You either move forward, sharing a greater level of intimacy and sharing resources in a mutually acceptable way, or it’s divorce and property settlement. Pluto asks to dig deep, face any fears from the past and to move forward in sync with your personal truth.

2023 STARS

by Stephanie Johnson

Leo: Habits formed in January bode well for the rest of the year. Life-enhancing new habits likely depend on having a positive mindset, so mindfulness may be your first step. Research shows mindfulness is effective in boosting good health. So try sitting quietly and letting your mind and body settle, and then tune in to what new habits could boost your health. Simple changes and small steps are all that are required at the start of the year to help overhaul your health and well-being in 2023. There is a flow-on effect for mating and dating as the year progresses.

Virgo: Sometimes the things that excite us the most also scare us the most. January sees you birth something new. You may be scared. This is a chance to move out of your comfort zone, to align more closely with your soul purpose. Young Virgos may welcome a child. Other possibilities are a new artistic project, a fun-filled hobby or a blossoming romance. If you are unsure of your direction, take the first step of creating an inspiring space or room and see what follows. As the year unfolds, new opportunities present themselves and you need to be ready.

Libra: The year starts with a focus on family. Politics may arise as roles shift and change. Your home front may feel unsettled, either because of a recent emotional event or as a result of renovations or a house move. As the year progresses you learn the true nature of your private needs. As a result, you transform your personal life. A Solar Eclipse on October 15 in your Zodiac Sign illuminates new possibilities as you let go of the old. The idea is to raise your vibration in 2023 so that you attract positive people and events in your private life.

Scorpio: Powerful messages come your way this year, so January sees you clear your mind of negative thoughts and influences ready for the year’s lessons. Reading and listening to positive books and podcasts can help in this process. Neighbours and siblings are highlighted at the start of the year. You need to keep your connections positive. It’s also possible that you are making decisions regarding your home and family. A Lunar Eclipse on May 6 sparks an ‘aha’ moment and you are full steam ahead as the planet of action, Mars, enters your Zodiac Sign on October 12.

Stephanie is an experienced Astrologer and regular contributor to Mornington Peninsula Magazine.

For more info go to seeingwithstars.net or ph: 0411 2555 77

Sagittarius: Your self-worth is front and foremost this year. The transformation planet Pluto is in the 2nd House of your Solar Chart, calling on you to let go of any selfdoubt and to know your true worth. As a result, your income is likely to be boosted. If you work for a boss then it may be time for a raise or for you to move on. If you are self-employed then your prices are likely to be overhauled. Your ruling planet Jupiter joins with the Nor Node of destiny in June, heralding a fated encounter that helps you on your way.

Capricorn: It’s the last stand at the O.K. Corral for Capricorns in 2023. The transformative Pluto moves in and out of your Zodiac Sign from May, forcing you to make changes. The start of January is the first big – or last – push, with four planets in your Zodiac Sign. Perhaps you are finishing a big project, one that is very personal, or perhaps it’s time to tackle a central relationship. Whatever your personal circumstance, this is your month and your year to finally crack the code on anything that prevents you being your true self.

Aquarius: January sees you prepare for a big year – a big 20 years – as transformative Pluto moves into your Zodiac Sign. If you have been craving a more exciting life, then it’s about to come. This is your chance to launch the big-ticket items on your bucket list. So you start the year meditating on, or contemplating in your own way, what is most important when it comes to living authentically. You could extend this to how you can best serve your community, humanity and God. As the year progresses, obstacles may loom and be cleared, particularly after March.

Pisces: Your social life picks up at the start of the year and relationship romance is highlighted from January 27 until February 20 as the planet of love, Venus, moves through your Zodiac Sign. Work alliances may be political, so you need to make sure that friends and associates are working with you. Serious Saturn enters your Sign in March, heralding a time to take responsibility for your own health and happiness. You may retreat while you consider your options. July to December highlights your need to value – while also protecting – your empathetic nature.

Long-term contraceptives for convenience and choice

Contraception allows people to choose when and if they get pregnant so they can finish schooling, get a job or maintain current employment. They may also have completed their families and not want any more children.

In addition to condoms, the pill and the injectable hormone, there are longer-term options that you can ‘set and forget’ for a few years and have them removed easily by your doctor when you choose.

There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Hormonal IUDs are T-shaped pieces of plastic that a doctor can place in your uterus. They contain a hormone that prevents pregnancy. They are also used as treatment for heavy periods, making them lighter. Mirena and the lower dose Kyleena both last five years.

Copper IUDs are mostly made of plastic with a thin copper wire wrapped around them. Copper is toxic to both eggs and sperm, thereby preventing pregnancy. They last five to 10 years.

Implanon is a little plastic matchstick about 4cm long that a doctor can put in your arm using local anaesthetic in the clinic. Once in place, Implanon releases a small amount of progestin – a hormone that changes the lining of your uterus so pregnancy can’t occur – every day. It lasts three years.

SEXUAL HEALTH OPTIONS

A: 89 Young St, Frankston T: 8725 0172

W: www.sexualhealthoptions.com.au

clean green

We try to confirm all markets with organisers before publication, however, late changes can occur.

MARKETS

For FREE inclusion online and in print, please email market details to publishing@mpmag.com.au by the 15th of each month.

EVERY DAY

Dromana Indoor Market: over 80 indoor stalls to peruse, plus hairdresser, 110 Nepean Highway, Dromana (down from Aldi), 10am-5pm

Flock of Seagulls: indoor market, art gallery and café, 2211 Point Nepean Road, Rye, 10am-4pm daily Market 3196: a range of over 300 indoor stalls plus café, something for everyone. 279 Wells Rd, Chelsea Heights, 10am-5pm

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Main St, Mornington: 9am-3pm between Cromwell and Albert streets

EVERY THURSDAY

High St, Hastings: 9am-1pm, 40+ stalls, everything homemade, home-grown & crafted Plaza Palooza: 9am-4pm, Langwarrin Plaza, Langwarrin

EVERY SUNDAY

Bittern: 8am-1pm, 70+ stalls, Frankston-Flinders Rd, Bittern station

Frankston: 8am-1pm, Sherlock & Hay carpark, Young St, Frankston

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 4

Boneo Lions Club Sunday Market: First Sunday of every month, 7am-1pm. Rosebud foreshore opposite Fourth Ave, something for everything

SATURDAY JANUARY 7

Red Hill Community Market: 8am-2pm, Red Hill Recreation Reserve

Rye Rotary Foreshore Market: 7am-12noon, Pt Nepean Rd, Rye near the pier

SUNDAY JANUARY 8

I Wore It Once Fashion Market: Peninsula Community Theatre, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington, 9.30am-12.30pm, $2 coin entry, www. instagram.com/i_wore_it_once

FRIDAY JANUARY 13

Soul Night Market: a festive, foodie and makers market, Dromana Estate, 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong, 5-9pm, www. unrivalledevents.com.au/soul-night-market-dromana-estate

SATURDAY JANUARY 14

Crib Point Community Market: second Saturday of month, 9am1pm, Crib Point Community House, 7 Park Rd, Crib Point Rosebud Community School: second Saturday of month, Nepean Hwy, the old carnival site on Rosebud Foreshore (opp 7-Eleven), 8am-1pm, 120+ stalls, handmade and new items, produce and plants

SUNDAY JANUARY 15

Seaford Farmers Market: fresh food market includes fruit and vegetables, meats, breads, pastas, cakes, jams and conserves, soaps, flowers, plants and much more, 8am-1pm; Broughton St Reserve, $2 donation per adult

Shoreham Market: third Sunday of the month, hand grown, made and gathered and music, corner of Byrnes and Cliff Rd

SATURDAY JANUARY 21

Boneo Community Market: third Saturday of the month, 8amnoon; cnr Boneo and Limestone roads

Emu Plains Market: Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring Racecourse, Balnarring, 9am-2pm www.emuplainsmarket.com.au

Food Yard Night Market: featuring up to 12 different street food and drink trucks from around the world, free entry with onsite parking, a great night out for family and friends. 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington, 5-8pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/food-yard Mornington Racecourse Craft Market: Racecourse Rd, 3-8pm; 300+ stalls with animal farm & face-painting for the kids

Pearcedale Market: third Saturday of month, 8am-noon, 710 Baxter-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale

SUNDAY JANUARY 22

Point Nepean Portsea Market: Portsea Quarantine Station, Point

Nepean National Park, 9am-2pm

Sunset Twilight Market Series: Frankston Waterfront, Pier Promenade, Frankston, 3-8pm, www.tpp.events

THURSDAY JANUARY 26

Mt Martha South Beach Market: a spectacular boutique street food/drink truck and handmade makers market overlooking the ocean, Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha, 10am-2pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/south-beach-market

SATURDAY JANUARY 28

Dromana Community Market: Dromana Community Park, Point Nepean Rd, Dromana; 8am-1.30pm; family-friendly experience with fresh and seasonal produce and locally crafted products

Little Beauty Market: Beauty Park, High St, Frankston, Special twilight market. 3-8pm, www.littlebeautymarket.com.au

Tootgarook Primary School Market: fourth Saturday of month, handmade arts and crafts, local and fresh produce, gourmet foods, plants, bric-a-brac, clothing and much more, Carmichael St, Tootgarook, 8am-12noon.

SUNDAY JANUARY 29

Mount Martha Briars Market: 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha, 9am-2pm

Mt Eliza Farmers’: fourth Sunday of month, Mount Eliza Village Green, 9am-1pm

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5

Moorooduc Station Market: 460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc; 60-stall boutique handmade maker and street food market at historic Moorooduc station; great family day; 9am-1pm; www.unrivalledevents.com.au/moorooduc-station-market

Market-lovers’ heaven

Market 3196 is a place to lose track of time as you peruse 380 captivating stalls. Imagine a bustling bazaar where new and pre-loved items sit alongside each other and where the classic and the kitsch have a place together. That’s what you’ll discover here.

From vintage to retro, contemporary to antique, Market 3196 is a shopping wonderland for bargain hunters, collectors, and those who love finding goods that are out of the ordinary. You never know what will be there on the day. Art, books, plants, jewellery, clothes, shoes, even garden tools are just some of the things to discover.

Beanheads Coffee Shoppe at Market 3196 is committed to serving only the very best coffee, sweet treats and savoury goods to market-lovers and day-trippers. When you’ve shopped ‘til you can shop no more, head to the welcoming cafe. There’s milkshakes for the kids, and delicious things to eat including toasties, quiches, homemade cakes and slices.

Conveniently located just off Frankston Freeway, Market 3196 is easy to access and will become one of your favourite shopping destinations.

MARKET 3196

A: 279 Wells Rd, Chelsea Heights

T: 0468 876 222

W: www.market3196.com.au

FB: Market3196

INSTA: the_market3196

Untold delights await

Looking for some super fun things to do this January? Here’s Untold Events Co’s must-do list.

Discover the Emu Plains Market at twilight. Unlike any other market you have ever been to, the EPM twilights offer a festival-like atmosphere featuring an amazing array of food, live entertainment, fun for the kids, and of course more than 250 of the very best stallholders Melbourne has to offer. Catch this iconic twilight market on January 21 from 3-8pm. www.emuplainsmarket.com.au

Visit the prettiest market around. Little Beauty Market has quickly become the creative hub of Frankston, showcasing more than 100 talented makers hand-picked for their uniqueness. Catch a special twilight market on January 28 from 3-8pm to experience all the sights and sounds this beautiful market has to offer. www. littlebeautymarket.com.au

There’s awesomeness every day at Albert & Daphne. Drop into the Untold Events Co bricks and mortar store in the heart of Main St, Mornington, all summer. Peruse locally made goods as well as curated treasures from across the globe. It’s open daily at 103 Main St. www. albertanddaphne.com.au

food wine produce

Steakhouse like

From the moment you walk through the doors of this premium Mornington steakhouse, you’re whisked away from the bustle of Main St’s casual cafes and into a stylish oasis for a fine-dining experience like no other.

Squires Loft is renowned for the quality and flavour of its steak. The cornerstone of its success is its proprietary sauces and baste, and its custom-built grills that allow for a unique cooking process that creates an incredible taste profile. Most importantly, the top-quality beef is primarily sourced from the lush green pastures of

Book a table for a summer lunch or dinner to remember.

SQUIRES LOFT MORNINGTON

A: 104 Main St, Mornington

T: 5976 8482

W: www.squiresloftmornington.com.au

FB: squiresloftmorningtonpeninsula

INSTA: squiresloftmornington

Soft drink maker goes in hard on marine plastic pollution

An Australian soft drink manufacturer says it is taking on the problem of plastics in our oceans one can at a time. For every can sold of its new product, Not Soda, Lo Bros says it will pay for the removal of the equivalent weight of two plastic soft drink bottles from marine environments, with the goal being to clean up to two million plastic bottles from our oceans by 2025. In a statement, Lo Bros said independent retailers Ritchies and Drakes were the first to get behind the effort, with the new drink featuring “heavily” in up to 130 of the two retailers’ stores across the country, “spearheading a new wave of planetconsciousness that consumers can get behind”. It quoted Ritchies CEO Fred Harrison saying: “Connection to our community has always been front and centre for us. We know this mission is something our customers will be excited to get behind, as are we.”

Through a partnership with Seven Clean Seas, Lo Bros said it would begin the plastics removal exercise in Indonesia’s Batam Island. “Every year, up to 34 billion plastic bottles enter the ocean,” it said. “In Australia, 75 per cent of all beverage aluminium (cans) are collected for recycling. Unlike plastic, which can only be recycled one to three times before degrading and sent to landfill, aluminium is infinitely recyclable.”

Seven Clean Seas co-founder Tom Peacock-Nazil said partnering with Lo Bros Not Soda “will generate tons of positive environmental and social impact while giving the existing soda market the disruptive shove it needs in the right direction”. “Not only is the product designed for recyclability and true circularity given today's infrastructure, but some of its profit is allocated to cleaning plastic pollution from our oceans.”

Drakes’ general manager of merchandise and marketing, Michael Connolly, said retailers “have a responsibility to be a part of the change for good”. “This is a soda (that) contributes to saving our seas at a time when climate change is a global emergency,” Mr Connolly said.

Lo Bros founder Didi Lo said the initiative “directly addresses the environmental crises being created by the soda industry”.

In its statement, Lo Bros said the onus was on businesses to tackle the issues of plastic pollution, plastic waste and climate change. “In the lead-up to the season of excess, Australians can take meaningful action by purchasing products that make them feel good.” Go to www.lobros. co/pages/notsoda to learn more.

Gippsland in Victoria and from northern NSW.

Mornington Peninsula’s most distinguished catering company.

Featuring delectable food and delicious drinks, Viand Fare brings a quality of service that leaves your dinner plates empty, and your guests satisfied.

Carefully selected local food and handpicked produce, you can rest easy knowing your event is in experienced hands.

Whether it’s an intimate wedding or a lavish celebration, Viand Fare is here to make your day as memorable for your taste buds as it is for your heart.

By catering your event, they’re representing you in front of the people you care about most. That’s why Viand Fare pay special attention to their presentation and interactions with guests. With a consistent dress attire for all staff, they’ll be providing a polished look for your event.

Wine show judge praises spread of trophies

Multiple wine producers across the region took home an impressive share of awards at the 2022 Mornington Peninsula Wine Show.

Chief judge Simon Steele said the spread of award-winners was a great thing for the industry and suggested that different sites and sub-regions could shine with specific varieties or styles. “It means the Mornington Peninsula Wine Show is inclusive and relevant for all producers, which is what a regional show should be about.”

Mr Steele said although the Peninsula is regarded as the perfect home for pinot noir and chardonnay wines, some of our vineyards are world-class sites for cool-climate shiraz and other varieties too. “Mornington Peninsula sparkling and cooler vintage pinot gris and even riesling can be beautifully floral and expressive wines, which have been sourced from specific sites, carefully selected and crafted by talented producers,” he said.

The 2022 Mornington Peninsula Wine Show trophy winners were:

Best Sparkling Wine: 2018 Elgee Park Cuvee Brut

Best Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris: 2022 Crittenden Peninsula Pinot Gris

Best White Varietal or Blend: 2022 Elgee Park Riesling

Best Chardonnay: 2021 Paringa Estate ‘The Paringa’ Chardonnay

Best Red Varietal or Blend: 2021 Yabby Lake Single Vineyard Shiraz

Best Pinot Noir: 2021 Handpicked Wines Capella Vineyard Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir

Chardonnay Provenance Award: Montalto – 2015, 2017, 2021

Pinot Noir Provenance Award: Montalto – 2012, 2017, 2021 See the full list of results at www.morningtonpeninsulawine.com.au

Nestled at the foot of Red Hill within the acclaimed Crittenden Estate is Stillwater, a modern vineyard restaurant showcasing the best of seasonal produce, in a truly beautiful setting.

Since opening its doors in 2004, Stillwater has gained a reputation as one of the Peninsula’s finest, offering relaxed fine dining, indoors or out.

The sharing of food & conversation is one of life’s simplest yet most enjoyable experiences, and their menu is designed with this in mind so dishes can easily be shard or savoured individually, with a mix & match of accompaniments.

Enjoy lunch with a view or an event to inspire. Their menu reflects the best of seasonal produce, sourced locally and organic, where possible.

Family friendly and with a relaxed atmosphere, Stillwater prides itself on making every guest welcome in this unique and special setting on the Mornington Peninsula.

Left, back row: Barry and Sofi Kosic and Laurence Tedesco (Elgee Park), Peter Dillon (Handpicked Wines), Dan Prior (Montalto), Luke Lomax (Yabby Lake), Jamie McCall (Paringa Estate); front: Simon Black (Montalto), Matt Campbell (Crittenden Estate).

While the summer crowds overflow in restaurants this summer, Orita’s 2 in Balnarring is keeping the focus on a high-quality experience away from the crowds. Getting a seat at Master chef Orita’s table has always been special. Now, securing a place means you must be quick to book because there are only 12 seats available each evening.

Master chef Orita is unique in his philosophy and approach to food. He defines himself as “a spiritual chef”, choosing to work solo in the kitchen so each meal he prepares has his full attention. He even talks to the fresh produce before cooking.

Master hand-selects produce daily from his garden or local growers to create his pre-order omakase menu. Some of his garden specialties include yuzu, ume, sakura flower, persimmon, cumquat, and fresh sansho herb.

Orita’s 2 surpasses typical traditional experiences of Japanese food. Master has more than 50 years’ experience in Japanese cuisine; he was trained by the founder of teppanyaki style, hence his passion for steak.

Those who dine in have the exclusive opportunity to purchase a bottle of Master’s housemade teriyaki sauce made from 400-year-old soy sauce. Take home a memory of your visit and enjoy the finesse of Master’s flavours in your home kitchen.

Bookings are essential. Orita’s 2 is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday for lunch from 1pm and dinner from 5.30-8.30pm. It’s closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

FROM VINE Forty years at Crittenden Estate

and realised he could grow the wines he wanted right here on the Peninsula.” 1982 the Crittenden family planted 2ha of vines in Dromana, doubling the land under vine at that time on the Peninsula. Whe came to growing grapes, Garry had his horticulture backgroun to draw on, but winemaking he had learn from scratch.

“Looking the region now, it’s easy think there are a lot winemakers ask for assistance,” says son Rollo. “But when Dad started out, he was one of only few. Dad set about working out what worked for him and refined the process constantly with support from other early vignerons the region.” Garry and his wife Margaret raised Zoe and Rollo on the vineyard. The current Wine Centre was once the family home. Margaret was an integral part establishing Crittenden Estate what today before disability the last 10 years of her life meant she had to step back from daily involvement; she died November 2020. “Mum was particularly passionate about food and her dream was always to serve food at the cellar door,” Zoe says. “Today that restaurant successful Stillwater Crittenden, owned and operated by Zac Poulier, but back then was Mum’s. She ran for 11 years and people flocked here for Mum’s food. She would stay up late into the night making everything from scratch.” In Zoe and Rollo took over the reins the family business, Rollo charge of winemaking and general management and Zoe taking care of marketing. “One thing really love about what is how unified are as family business,” Rollo says. “You hear lot of horror stories, but do feel it’s been really nice transition from one generation another.”

Ahoy there, see you at Cptn Jack’s

If discovering treasure appeals to you, head off the well-worn track and chart a course for Cptn Jack’s. Located at Yaringa Boat Harbour, this gorgeous waterfront venue is one the locals want to keep a secret.

Word is out about Cptn Jack’s thanks to managers Quentin and Caroline, a French couple who bring a swag of hospitality experience and passion to what they do so well. The two met eight years ago while traversing the globe in pursuit of their shared passion for fine food, excellent wine, and the delivery of exceptional hospitality. Be sure to ask Quentin about his secret wine list.

The kitchen is headed up by Dave Cafarella, also an industry veteran. Dave works his magic creating a fittingly seafood-focused menu filled with fresh Asian flavours.

The stylish interior design, with its sea glass-inspired

palette of soft greens and blues and tasteful nautical touches, is the masterstroke of Lizzie Hart, co-owner of Cptn Jack’s with her husband Malcolm. The Harts purchased the marina and restaurant in 2018.

This summer sees an exciting addition to Cptn Jack’s with a bespoke food caravan catering to Jack’s Green, a lawn area with picnic tables. Bring the kids and play a game of giant Jenga, quoits or totem tennis and order some delicious fish and chips – they’re gluten-free so everyone can enjoy them – or perhaps sticky pork rice paper rolls. Jack’s caravan provides a relaxed casual dining option. In the restaurant, seafood platters and crayfish can be pre-ordered to further elevate the experience.

CPTN JACK’S

A: Yaringa Boat Harbour, 1 Lumeah Rd, Somerville

T: 5977 4939

W: www.cptnjacks.com.au

FB: cptnjacks

INSTA: cptnjacks

Now Dromana has a wonderful taste of Japan

The southern Mornington Peninsula is now home to an inviting new restaurant after Okami Dromana finally opened its doors to the public, kicking off with an exclusive launch party on December 3 (see our photos on page 130).

For those who are not familiar, the Okami group operates and manages 48 restaurants across Australia, and that number is constantly growing. The newest

establishment in Dromana is something to get extremely excited about because it’s the first of its kind to open on the southern Peninsula. With two Okami restaurants already operating on the Peninsula in Frankston and Mornington, this third location is set to be just as popular among residents and tourists.

This all-you-can-eat Japanese-style dining venue offers unlimited sushi and sashimi platters, gyozas, skewers and Japanese desserts. Using only the finest ingredients, including Angus beef, Tasmanian salmon

and RSPCA-approved poultry, the menu is sure to impress.

Designed to be shared with friends and loved ones, the food is colourful and vibrant, fresh and tasty, and with more than 30 delicious items on offer, there is definitely something to please the whole family.

The all-you-can-eat menu also means you can enjoy the finest fresh food cooked to order for a set price of only $39.80 a person. So try anything and everything,

and make Okami your new favourite restaurant.

OKAMI DROMANA

A: 173-175 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana

T: 9696 6888

OKAMI FRANKSTON

A: 1/151 Beach St, Frankston T: 9769 6748

OKAMI MORNINGTON

A:C2 & C3, 20 Main St, Mornington T: 5973 6688

W: www.okamirestaurant.com.au

Great wines come from great vines

Dromana Estate is a place of beauty, tranquillity and peace. With landscaped gardens, a 100-year old weeping elm and more than 50 acres (20ha) under vine, the estate produces up to 12 varietals every year, reflecting the cool-climate characteristics of the Mornington Peninsula. Across three awardwinning labels – Mornington Estate, Dromana Estate and Tuerong Park – each bottle is estate-grown and produced.

It is our philosophy that great wines begin from great vines. To best reflect this, we adopt a minimal interference policy, keep the use of fungicides to the absolute minimum, and endeavour to use organic options when available,

resulting in beautiful, premium wines that are sustainable and eco-friendly. With our commitment to environmental viticulture and food production, a glass of Dromana Estate wine tastes even better.

Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a romantic getaway, spend a day at Dromana Estate this summer for quality time with those you love. Our new summer menu features fresh, local seafood, artisan cheeses and a range of tapas-style dishes to share, perfectly matched to pairing wines. Our restaurant and cellar door is open Wednesday to Sunday for tastings and lunch.

DROMANA ESTATE

A: 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong

T: 5974 4400

W: www.dromanaestate.com.au

FB: DromanaEstate

INSTA: dromanaestate

Looking for fun things to do on the Mornington Peninsula over summer?

Why not enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun with a gin high tea experience at Bass & Flinders Distillery in the Dromana industrial area.

Over the course of your afternoon, you will dine on delectable local fare, sip handcrafted gins, and be given a history of the distillery’s gins and what makes them so unique.

The gin high tea experience includes:

• A tier of savoury and sweet items to enjoy, including scones with gin-infused jam and cream, lemon curd sponge, mini custard pots, macaroons, and delectable seasonal fruits all locally

sourced. Savoury items include mixed gourmet rolls, mini quiches, and cheese and crackers;

• Gin and tonic of your choice on arrival; and,

• Your choice of a gin-tasting paddle with four handcrafted gins, tonic and ice to mix your own gins at the table.

At the end of this food and drink-tasting experience, return home with full bellies as well as fond memories with your loved ones. The gin high tea experience is available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

BASS & FLINDERS DISTILLERY

A: 40 Collins Rd, Dromana

T: 5987 3893

W: www.bassandflindersdistillery.com

Tastes of Japan: Okami Group launched its newest restaurant in Dromana last month with the ultimate Okami all-you-can-eat menu, drinks and entertainment. There was an opening ceremony with Japanese drums before Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Antonella Celi cut the ribbon. Guests were invited to dress in their best Japanese anime cosplay garb or simply in something that represented Japan, with prizes awarded for the best efforts.

Photos: Mornington Peninsula Magazine

mornington PENINSULA

property home garden

Keeping the heat out and saving money

Purchasing window coverings from dollar curtains + blinds is a great way to enhance your interior design scheme, but more importantly it will also save you energy and money.

The right window coverings will insulate your windows, resulting in greater control over the interior temperature of your home and significant savings on your power bills.

Uncovered windows are responsible for up to 50 per cent of unwanted heat gain in summer. Luckily, dc+b specialises in products that can make a difference to your energy consumption and bank balance.

Window Awnings reduce sunlight and glare on your windows, protect the inside of your home from sun damage and greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Alfresco Awnings create that all-inclusive outdoor space that can be enjoyed 365 days a year. They are proven to reduce cooling energy costs by up to 60 per cent* by keeping your home at a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the

summer.

Contact their Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for your free design, measure and quote. If you’re building a new home, dc+b can also provide expert advice and a free quote off your house plans. Both stores are open Monday to Friday 9am5.30pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm.

DC+B

A: Shop C4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington

T: 5975 3655

E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au

A: Store 15, Kingston Central Plaza, 288 Centre Dandenong Rd, Moorabbin Airport T: 9566 8200

E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au

FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds

INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds

Experts in Mornington Peninsula Building

Design and construct specialists | Cost-saving analysis Design with us, or bring your plans | Knockdown and rebuild specialists

what's hot

Eat.Drink Mornington Peninsula 2023 out now, the perfect gift, order now for yourself, friends, family or corporate gifts www.mpmag.com.au

To enter, become a member of Mornington Peninsula Magazine here, then check out @MornPenMag on Facebook and Instagram to complete all the entry steps on the competition post.

The Kasbah may be the perfect verandah chair – it combines beauty and comfort. The gorgeous chair is carefully woven from rattan with subtle detailing around the base of the chair adding to its beauty. A comfortable cotton canvas cushion completes the chair, the Kasbah will soon become your favourite.

Find Provincial Home Living at 147 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento P. 5908 4299 www.provincialhomeliving.com.au

The Mango Creek buffet provides your home with detailed craftmanship and natural beauty.

Oz Design Furniture, HomeCo Peninsula, Nepean Hwy, Mornington, 9560 1137 www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

How we weathered a year of challenges

Welcome 2023! If change is good, then we’re all becoming excellent at it. We started 2022 with optimism that lockdowns were over and COVID would fade away. The year saw us weather multiple COVID variations, staff shortages across all industries, supply chain disruption, stock shortages, a very long winter and lots of rain.

We also had a federal and state election, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the assassination of Shinzo Abe, a global monkeypox outbreak, the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the Winter Olympics in Beijing, and Australia entering one of the fastest interest rate tightening cycles in our history.

Having endured among the most stringent lockdowns of any state, working from home became a norm for many Victorians, and an opportunity to explore living away from ‘the big smoke’ with a tree-change or seachange. In turn, when lockdowns ended, employers were desperate to retain employees, and continued to support working from home, enabling more people to explore living on the Mornington Peninsula instead of closer to Melbourne. The historical lack of flooding and bushfires on the Peninsula, when other parts of Australia were dealt blow after blow, also enhanced buyer appeal for our real estate.

Interest rate rises drastically contributed to a correction of the real estate market in 2022 compared with the outstanding capital growth achieved in 2021. Surging inflation, low consumer confidence and deteriorating affordability all shifted the market nationally through 2022. Whether the market is simply returning to ‘normal’ or undertaking a larger correction, only time will tell. That said, Mornington Peninsula real estate continues to hold its own despite the national trend of downward price adjustments. While ‘days on market’ has lengthened and vendor expectations are moderating, quality property continues to sell at strong prices.

In November 2022 Coastal Agents celebrated our first year in business, consolidating our 15 years’ combined industry experience. We wish you a happy and prosperous 2023.

COASTAL AGENTS

A: 50 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza

M: Liz, 0417 559 992

M: Meg, 0400 190 242

M: Sarah, 0408 543 435

W: www.coastalagents.com.au

The granny flat specialists

Willow Grove Homes & Granny

Flats is owned and operated by father-and-daughter team John and Farah Drake, and they know the value of family.

For more than 55 years the company has specialised in quality granny flats and transportable homes. The homes they supply are an ideal option for extended families who want to live together or if you just need extra space perhaps for an art space or home office in the backyard. The Drakes provide personalised service, ensuring you get just what you need and that your new home or granny flat is built with care and precision. Commitment to providing customers with a wide range of options and personalised service has made Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats a leader in their field.

The company provide a variety of sizes and designs to choose from, which means you can find just the right one to suit your needs. With a range of homes from 34 square metres (3.7 squares) to 99 square metres (10.6 squares), there’s something ideal for any living situation. The range of modern designs feature open-plan living and kitchen areas with either one, two or three bedrooms.

If you’re thinking of retiring and want to downsize, or perhaps need some extra support and want to be nearer to family, give the team at Willow Grove a call and discuss your needs and the options available. You can also visit their display village in Dandenong South.

WILLOW GROVE HOMES & GRANNY FLATS

A: 2 Waterview Close, Dandenong South

T: 9799 8500

W: willowgrovegrannyflats.com.au

Lifelong passion for building and renovating

John Paroukas, the owner and director of Smith & Sons Mornington Peninsula, has more than 20 years' experience in the construction industry. He started his apprenticeship in the late ‘90s and progressed through to the role of construction management before taking the reins as director at Smith & Sons Mornington Peninsula at the end of 2021.

John has always loved using tools, and after high school he decided a trade would be the way to go. With a natural flair as a leader, he quickly moved on to running a team, which only fuelled his desire to be the owner and director of his own building business.

“When I think back on my life and how it led me to where I am today, it is truly humbling,” he says. “My deep passion for designing and renovating homes is something that seems natural to me. With enthusiasm and an eye for detail, I love creating beautiful spaces that work for modern families. I am always on top of current trends so we can integrate them into our projects as well.

“People often ask what sets us apart from other builders. My answer is simple: you get me – an experienced

renovation and extension specialist who has completed over 300 projects from the simple to the complex. I also bring a wealth of real industry knowledge and experience to the table.

“We have been with Smith & Sons for approximately 12 months now, and I cannot wait to see what the future brings for our locally run family business.”

SMITH & SONS MORNINGTON PENINSULA

T: 1300 787 577

W: www.smithandsons.com.au

FB: smithandsonsau

INSTA: smithandsonsau

mornington PENINSULA

Create the garden of your dreams

Simon the Plant Man has been operating as a wholesale and retail plant nursery on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula for 22 years.

“I began building and operating the nursery in 1999 and started growing plants that thrive in the area,” Simon says. “I’ve also landscape designed many properties for builders and developers. I began offering plants for sale to the public from early 2002 and provide retail garden designs for locals and customers in surrounding areas.”

The nursery is established on 1.6ha and includes shade houses for succulents and tropical plants. You’ll find a variety of hedging plants including lilly pilly, pittosporum, magnolia, bottlebrush and other screening natives. Simon has supplied ornamental and fruiting

trees to many customers over the past 22 years, and these have matured in their gardens, making for magnificent landscapes. Simon and his team are proud to have supplied lots of beautiful gardens with their plants.

“Myself and my friendly, highly knowledgeable team hope to see you in the nursery this year and we’re always up for a chat and ready to give advice and answer any questions you may have.”

Simon the Plant Man and staff wish you a happy, safe and healthy new year.

SIMON THE PLANT MAN

A: 866 Moorooduc Highway, Mornington  T: 5978 8608 W: simontheplantman.com.au

BARRELS

NEW STOCK OF POTS INDOOR/OUTDOOR

The sun is shining, the weather is warming up and it has been a long time in lockdown. A lot of time has been spent in our home or offices but it’s now time to let the fresh air in and open up your windows.

You’re probably wondering where to start.

The solution is outsourcing and hiring a professional cleaning company that can perform a spring clean for your home or a deep clean for your office.

Outsourcing the cleaning task to a professional cleaning company may be one of the best things you do for yourself. It means you will be taking the stress off you and leaving the hard work to the professionals who

do this day in and day out.

At Essential Home Services, we take our cleaning seriously and pride ourselves on delivering integrity, professionalism and commitment to the service, meaning that you will hire a company who cares and genuinely wants to deliver an amazing result.

We aim to make the process as easy as possible. So call us today and experience for yourself a cleaner environment with Essential Home Services – cleaning made easy.

ESSENTIAL HOME SERVICES

A: Frankston T: 1300 910 971 W: www.essentialhomeservices. com.au E: enquiries@ essentialhomeservices.com.au

New year, new mattress from Makin Matressess

Want to know the best way to be successful in achieving your goals this year? Make sleeping well a priority. If you’ve been putting up with a saggy or lumpy mattress, it’s time to start the new year right and go mattress shopping. Investing in a high-quality mattress made by the experts at Makin Mattresses will set you up to sleep well for years to come. Makin Mattresses’ complete range of mattresses are double-sided, handcrafted and designed to be flipped and rotated. This practice is key to doubling the life of your mattress and ensuring an even, comfortable sleeping surface.

For more than 45 years Makin Mattresses has been Australia’s largest independent mattress manufacturer. With 10 stores Australia-wide and six manufacturing sites, Makin Mattresses has a wide range of mattresses that makes finding the right one for your individual needs easy.

Makin Mattresses is the only bedding manufacturer in Australia to have a micro coil machine that maximises mattress airflow to reduce heat and increase hygiene. This feature is essential not only for your body temperature but also the health of your mattress because sweat causes foam to degrade and flatten over time. Imagine how your current mattress is faring. We dare you to strip off that mattress protector and examine it closely.

And if you own a caravan, camper trailer, motor home or boat, there’s a lightweight range and a custom-made range so you can travel and sleep well even on a summer holiday road trip.

MAKIN MATTRESSES

A: 189 Bay Rd, Sandringham

T: 9533 1113

W: www.makinmattresses.com.au

FB: MakinmattressesAu

Swim safe this summer

Summer fun in your pool or spa comes with safety responsibilities. The Pool Inspection Man is here to help. All you need to do is arrange an inspection with a qualified member of The Pool Inspection Man team to make sure your pool or spa barrier meets Australian safety standards. You’ll receive quality advice and support from a friendly and knowledgeable professional. There are three steps to follow to ensure your pool or spa barrier is safe and sound. Step 1: register your pool or spa with your council. Step 2: arrange a time for a Pool Inspection Man team member to thoroughly inspect your barrier in accordance with the relevant Australian standard. Step 3: if your barrier is compliant, you’ll receive a compliance certificate. If your pool or spa barrier needs adjusting, you’ll receive a written report with clear, simple solutions detailing what’s required to make your barrier safe. On completion of the required adjustments, a follow-up inspection is carried out and your barrier compliance certificate is issued, which you then lodge with your council. Pool safety made simple.

How to refresh your interior for the new year

There is no better way to start the new year than to give your home a new and exciting look. As the festivities come to an end and we embrace 2023, now is a great time

First, introduce greenery and florals into your home to add beautiful colour and fresh air indoors. This also provides an opportunity to change your pot plants seasonally or choose new vases to welcome in plants around empty spaces of your room. With summer now in full swing, it is time to change to a low pile rug that won’t absorb the heat. Rugs can completely transform the look of a room with this simple interior change, adding a layer of texture underfoot.

Summer calls for bringing a new visual dimension to your space by introducing a new colour into your theme. This can be done through vibrant artwork, cushions, and decorative vases to bring instant life to your space. Here we have used pops of blue in cushions and books to create synergy in this living room. With a neutral canvas like our Benji sofa and Willow armchair, experiment with different hues and shades to create a unique feel.

Live in style this summer and discover OZ Design Furniture's new season pieces that will transform your home into a space that feels like there is no place like it. Shop online or in store today.

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON

A: Showroom D4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington T: 8560 1137

W: www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

FB: OZDesignFurniture

INSTA: ozdesignfurniture

While we are still hoping that some proper summer weather finally comes to us, the vegies we planted last year haven’t particularly minded that every day is not a beach day. Most will be cropping pretty well, actually, given the regular rainfall and increasing warmth in the soil. It’s always exciting when the first fruits begin to form, to watch them increase in size daily, and finally picked for the kitchen or eaten on the way back in. While a sense of achievement and pride can often be felt during these early harvests, it is important to keep up the care for your crops to ensure the fruits of your initial labour continue to be realised.

Pruning your vegetables during the growing season is one way you can help increase the quality of your fruitproducing crops. Tomatoes are the classic example of a summer vegetable that responds well to pruning, but a similar strategy can be applied to many of your fruiting vegetables. By pruning, or really thinning, we aim to reduce the number of fruit each crop carries in order to increase the quality of our harvests.

So for those who would benefit from a tomato pruning

recap, the main intention is to increase the quality of the fruit by removing unnecessary vegetative (or plant) growth. Above each leaf growing from the main stem you will see a new shoot protruding. These shoots essentially become a replica of the tomato plant and will themselves produce new shoots and fruit. And so on. By reducing the number of these shoots, we will in turn reduce the number of fruit the plant will carry. Many may think that this doesn’t sound very sensible, as we want as many tomatoes as we can. However, when we leave a tomato plant unpruned and over-producing, the fruit will generally become smaller and less flavoursome. While we may be used to flavourless tomatoes for much of the year, it is well worth creating the richest fruit we can during our growing season.

Many other fruits can benefit from this theory. Once your pumpkins have produced enough fruit and are beginning to ripen, you can cut off the excess growth while you wait for the lucky ones you’ve chosen to ripen. The same can be applied to watermelons and your other melons.

As well as pruning for quality, you may also want to keep up with some regular feeding if you feel that your soil is lacking somewhat in nutrients. Sometimes you can be in a rush to plant your vegies as the warm weather approaches and may not have prepared the soil as diligently as you had hoped. You can remedy this in part by applying weekly or bi-weekly liquid feeds, or even throwing around a few handfuls of granular fertiliser –organic, of course. As always, water well before and after applying fertiliser.

As the real warmth of summer arrives – fingers crossed –make sure you keep a close eye on all your plants. And enjoy the wonderful harvests that the warm season can bring.

HAPPY GARDENING! Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens www.ediblegardens.com.au

Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month mornington PENINSULA

Max out your summer enjoyment

Now is the perfect time to check out Foxy's Mornington store at Home Co, where you will find a range of products that will help you enjoy the outdoors to the max this summer.

For example, Foxy's has the latest range of Yeti products on display in store and is constantly restocking with the latest designs and styles of Yeti coolers, drinkware and outdoor living gear. Foxy’s staff will be more than happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have about these fantastic products.

As well as getting a sneak peek at what is hot this season, don't forget to look at the range of Weber portable barbecues, including the always popular Weber Q and Baby Q range. And check out the

new Weber Traveller gas barbecue so you can always be prepared for your next outdoor adventure. In addition to this, Foxy's carries a complete range of Weber accessories to help you get the most out of your Weber barbecue experience.

You can find everything from grills, coverings and cookware to cleaning supplies and more, so you'll have no problem getting the perfect setup for a tasty meal outdoors.

Make the most of your outdoor summer experiences this year with a new barbecue from Foxy’s.

FOXY’S APPLIANCES

A: Shop 11A, Peninsula Home, 1130 Nepean Highway, Mornington T: 5976 7343

W: foxysappliances.com.au

FB: foxysappliancesmornington INSTA: foxysappliances

Community rallies behind litter-free beaches and bays

While the start of summer sees us heading outdoors to enjoy a muchneeded break, more people visiting our beaches has traditionally meant increased waste and litter. But the Peninsula community is determined to change this for good.

Leading the way, Mornington Peninsula Shire has launched its My Beach Is Your Beach campaign, championing what unites us: the love for our beaches and bays. The campaign advocates a litter and waste-free region and aims to prevent cigarette butts, plastic bottles, coffee cups and other plastic takeaway items from entering our bays and waterways.

The Shire’s campaign is unanimously supported by residents and leading groups including Dolphin Research Institute, Beach Patrol Australia, Peninsula surf lifesaving clubs, and Plastic Free Peninsula.

To limit the amount of plastic litter generated at the source, the Peninsula joined Boomerang Alliance’s national Plastic Free Beaches program earlier this year. Funded by the Federal Government and the Shire, the program works directly with our hospitality venues to eliminate single-use plastic takeaway items. Nationally, the program has eliminated more than 16 million singleuse plastic items and counting. Peninsula businesses are hugely aware of the impact of litter and an everincreasing number of venues are joining the program to drive positive change.

Ready to do more? Here are our top tips: Ditch single-use coffee cups: Did you know 50,000 single-use cups go to landfill every 30 minutes in Australia alone? But there is good news. Long gone are the days where reusable cups and containers were not accepted;

the Peninsula is embracing reusables more than ever before. So dust off your cup and kiss single-use goodbye in 2023. Psst: barista-made coffee tastes so much better in a stylish reusable cup.

Join the Green Caffeen swap and go reusable cup program: You can now join the 'reuse revolution' by supporting the Peninsula's new swap and go program. It's as easy as 1-2-3. 1: Download the Green Caffeen app. 2: Buy your drink at participating cafes listed on the app. 3: Return your empty (even dirty!) cup at any participating cafe and grab a fresh cup with your new order. Go to www.greencaffeen.com.au to learn more.

Join Beach Patrol Australia: You can join a number of very active Peninsula-based groups for their monthly litter cleans. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded locals who are passionate about preserving our great outdoors. The groups log their litter on the LitterStopper app, which feeds into state and national databases.

Pick up a few litter items every time you visit the beach: All you need is some protective gloves and a container/ bag to collect your litter. It could even be part of your daily dog walk or an organised day with friends, family, or work colleagues. Even if you're not part of a Beach Patrol group, be sure to download the LitterStopper app and record what you find. And if you see an overflowing public bin, simply scan the QR code on it and report the location to alert the Shire’s collection service.

Check out the Plastic Free Peninsula member directory at www.wastewisepeninsula.org to support the businesses on a mission to eliminate single-use plastics and litter. Join the @wastewisepeninsula Facebook and Instagram pages for updates and tips to reduce your waste. When we all pitch in together, we can make a big difference. Be sure to share your efforts by tagging @mornpenmag, @ ourpeninsula and @wastewisepeninsula

CLEAN GREEN PENINSULA

BIRTE MOLIERE

Mount Eliza Beach Patrol leader and Plastic Free Peninsula facilitator Birte Moliere with her boys Henri and Max.