Mornington Peninsula Magazine March 2024

Wrap stars start an eco-revolution

Julia Kay, one of the innovative co-CEOs and co-founders behind Great Wrap, speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about their eco-conscious packaging company that started life on the Mornington Peninsula.

Since our last story in 2021, how has Great Wrap evolved as a company? So much has changed since we last spoke. We’ve had an exciting couple of years. We moved to a large facility in Tullamarine, we became a B Corp certified business, we launched our compostable hand pallet wrap, our compostable machine pallet

wrap and our Great Wrap refillable dispenser for homes, and we’re working on PHA in the lab so we can offer a material that is marine degradable as well as compostable.

What motivated the decision to focus on compostable materials for your products?

It was the sheer impact plastic waste was having on the land, and the state of our recycling and waste systems in Australia. Sadly, the infrastructure isn’t where it needs to be and a lot of waste that goes to recycling ends up in landfill. With our material, when it’s placed in a compost environment it will completely disappear, leaving nothing behind. This isn’t always guaranteed with recyclable materials in the recycling system, and the same with single-use soft plastics. To ensure the effectiveness and environmental impact of our wrap, we ensure all materials within our wrap are compostable and we apply for global compost certifications so that our end business users know it can be disposed of through a compost facility.

Tell us about the process of creating your products.

We manage all elements of manufacturing and distribution at our facility in Tullamarine. Our materials are compounded and extruded through our machines on site and turned into compostable stretch wrap. We currently manufacture wrap for homes and businesses with different lengths, thicknesses and widths to cater to different industries. Locally manufacturing our products is an important part of our mission, as it creates local jobs and boosts Victorian manufacturing.  How do you engage with the community?

Community involvement is integral to our mission. We have created a brand that is able to cater to homes and businesses in Australia. This is important because we want everyone to be part of the Great Wrap evolution. People love supporting Australian-made and owned businesses, so it didn’t make sense for us to only focus on one industry or area.

What have been some of the most rewarding moments and biggest challenges?

Some of the most rewarding moments are our internal wins, such as seeing our manufacturing team create a material for the first time. A lot of people weren’t sure we’d be able to make our vision a reality, but we’ve put a lot of time and effort into making it happen. One of our biggest challenges is keeping up with the global demand. We’ve been very lucky to have a lot of global media attention, which always results in a lot of inquiries from far and wide. People want to see us everywhere, which is so amazing, but it all takes time and we’re working on it.

What are your aspirations for the future of Great Wrap?

We want to see Great Wrap used globally in homes and businesses so we can make a large impact and see less traditional pallet wrap and cling wrap in our landfills. We believe composting and compostable products are the future, and the more awareness we can get is a positive for the industry and the future of composting infrastructure. Further to this, in the future we plan to make our wrap with PHA in our own biorefinery. PHA is compostable and marine degradable, so if it was ever to accidentally end up in the ocean it will break down there too.

How can readers support and engage with Great Wrap?

Readers can support us by following us on our social media channels @great_ wrap, by signing up to our e-newsletters or purchasing our home products on our website www.greatwrap.com.au

Great Wrap co-founders and husband and wife Jordy and Julia Kay. Photo: Shelley Horan

Trend

Dromana teen hits volleyball heights

Josh Hodder, a 17-year-old volleyball prodigy from Dromana, speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about discovering his love for the sport at Peninsula Grammar and being offered a spot at the prestigious Australian Volleyball Academy at the Australian Institute of Sport.

Tell us about your journey with volleyball so far. My path into volleyball has been a bit unconventional. I only started playing two years ago with a close friend at Peninsula Grammar, where I discovered an unexpected passion for the game. It helps that I am 195cm tall and have a good jump for hitting and blocking. Intrigued by the sport's dynamics and challenges, I joined Mornington Volleyball Club. The club has a great supportive community and exceptional coaches. With their guidance I swiftly progressed and earned a spot on the U18 Victorian state team. I was thrilled to represent my state at the national championships in Bendigo.

In addition to club commitments, I sought out additional training opportunities with the Greater Melbourne Volleyball Academy at the State Volleyball Centre. Under the mentorship of retired Australian men's volleyball team player Luke Campbell, I refined my skills and gained invaluable insights into the game. Furthermore, I was privileged to participate in invite-only national development camps, where I had the opportunity to test my abilities against the top in the country. It was during one of these camps that I was offered a spot at the Australian Volleyball Academy. It's truly humbling to have been selected. I’m filled with gratitude for this opportunity and fully intend to take advantage of everything on offer in Canberra, including excellent coaching, great facilities and amazing contacts.

How do you balance your academic responsibilities with your commitment to volleyball?

It has been challenging. I’ve had to change schools, as I’m now living at the Australian Institute of Sport, and I’m completing Year 12 at a new school, University of Canberra Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra. My coach at the Australian Volleyball Academy, Brendan Garlick, and I meticulously plan my schedule, maintaining open communication with teachers to

stay ahead on course work and plan for missed classes during competitions.

What is your training regimen at the Australian Volleyball Academy?

The program entails approximately 25 hours of collective work per week, encompassing various activities such as learning sessions, team meetings, training, and gym sessions. This workload can exert significant strain on both our physical wellbeing and mental health. However, behind the scenes a dedicated team of staff meticulously designs our program to cater to each individual's needs, ensuring optimal improvement while minimising the risk of injury. In the event of an injury, we have access to a range of resources including physical therapy and medical professionals. Regular check-ups with doctors are also part of our routine, allowing for early detection and timely intervention to maintain our health and performance at its peak.

What are your goals and aspirations in volleyball?

One of my immediate goals is to represent Australia internationally this year, either on one of the overseas tours or at the Asian championships. Looking further ahead, my long-term aspiration is to secure a scholarship to a Canadian college before pursuing a professional career in volleyball.

What message would you share with young athletes who wish to pursue their passion for volleyball? Regardless of your circumstances, if you love volleyball like I do, then play it wholeheartedly and give it your best effort. While success isn't guaranteed, not trying at all means missing out on potential opportunities and friendships.

Josh Hodder in action on the volleyball court.

Josh Hodder in his Australian Volleyball Academy uniform, with his father Sam Hodder.

Samantha’s the complete package in business

Samantha Clarke’s move to Mount Martha last year was both a sea change and a tree change, coinciding with the exciting launch of her eco-friendly sustainable packaging business Peninsula Packaging Co. Having worked for large companies in senior corporate roles for almost three decades, Samantha’s return to the Mornington Peninsula where she and her husband were raised reinvigorated her passion for the environment, the shift in her lifestyle and professional career bringing her closer to nature. Still as busy as ever, she now feels greater contentment by contributing to a purpose close to her heart.

Peninsula Packaging Co. was born from Samantha’s background in marketing, paired with her husband’s 15 years’ experience travelling the world working in the retail and food packaging industry. Discussing their respective careers, the couple often found parallels, brainstorming best practice concepts and opportunities common to both. The result is a company that knows and values its customers, merging functional value with brand consideration.

Rather than simply being a ‘transactional supplier’, Peninsula Packaging Co. (www. peninsulapackagingco.com) offers its expertise as a dedicated ‘packaging partner’, ensuring customers are given the relevant details to make informed decisions about their packaging choices, with the aim of keeping the Peninsula – and our planet – beautiful through the use of only recyclable, reusable or compostable products. The company has already saved many businesses a great deal of time and money, thinking outside the square and exploring new eco-conscious options. As passionate about effective communication as she is about innovation, Samantha relishes the opportunity to build meaningful connections, happily sharing her knowledge and celebrating the success of others. An inspiration to female colleagues, Samantha simultaneously models the concept of ‘businesswoman’ to her two young daughters, hoping they too will enjoy a future where women lift each other in the workplace.

Samantha has created a business specific to her passions and experience. She urges anyone wishing to start their own initiative to invest time creating a plan around their vision; to find a support network; to never compromise their values; and to remember ‘success’ may not take the direction as first imagined, so learn to adjust the compass.

DANIELLE DAVEY

Peninsula Packaging Co. specialises in innovative sustainable packaging solutions.

Peninsula Packaging Co. co-founder Samantha Clarke.

Unfair contracts: How do the new laws level the playing field for your business?

In a major shake-up, the government introduced new laws governing unfair contract terms in November 2023. The changes particularly affect small to medium-size companies (SMEs) because they redefine how contracts can be used.

Under the new laws, standard-form contract terms may be unfair if they’re one-sided, unnecessary, or potentially harmful. Also, the laws now apply to more SMEs: companies employing fewer than 100 people or generating an annual turnover of up to $10 million.

Penalties for breaching the laws have increased massively and each unfair term in a contract will attract a penalty. For companies, the maximum penalties will be the greater of:

• $50 million (up from $10 million), or

• Three times the benefit received (if this can be worked out), or

• 30 per cent of a company’s turnover during the breach period or previous year (if the benefit can’t be worked out).

marshalls+dent+wilmoth lawyers provides contract law advice to Mornington Peninsula businesses. Contact the Mornington office on 5973 6916 or visit www.mdlaw.com.au

“Many company operators sign contracts without fully understanding the terms,” said lawyer Rebecca Cameron, of Peninsula firm marshalls+dent+wilmoth lawyers.

“The new laws attempt to level the playing field. It’s increasingly difficult for a party to rely on unbalanced and one-sided clauses or clauses that allow a party to change the contract without agreement. It’s also harder to unfairly make another party take on more risk.”

For SMEs, the impact is significant. “The new laws empower companies to dispute unfair terms,” Ms Cameron said. “Understanding these laws is one thing, but applying them to your company circumstances is a different challenge.”

Skilled legal guidance is the key. It ensures compliance and turns the new laws into tools for forging fairer and more balanced contractual relationships.

marshalls+dent+wilmoth lawyers

P. 5973 6919 | www.mdlaw.com.au

Dedication to conservation brings national acknowledgement

The Mornington Peninsula is sweltering through a heatwave when I visit Gidja Walker at her home at St Andrews Beach. She has texted me her address with a warning to be careful on the path to her house, as it is “a bit of a snaky day”.

Walking through the frontyard it is easy to see what has prompted this warning, with native grasses and plants flourishing and a variety of bird baths, logs and stones scattered throughout. It immediately feels like a haven for wildlife. “This is what I do; I restore the land,” Gidja says, guiding me along and pointing out where possums hide, lizards bask in the sun – when it is not as hot as today – and many other animals make their home. Though impressed by the abundance of wildlife in her yard, I am somewhat relieved to not meet a snake up close today.

Gidja Walker was awarded a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in January for her service to conservation and the environment. An ecologist, educator and artist, she has worked for decades to preserve and restore the natural environment and share her learnings with others. Ecology is all about understanding the interactions of living creatures with their environment. “It’s really about connectedness,” she says, and that includes the plants and wildlife, the soil and waterways, and the role of people.

Education and training are a speciality of Gidja’s, who has mentored many young people in the areas of restoration ecology, threatened species management and protecting endangered ecosystems such as the Moonah Woodland and wetlands. Her ability to identify plants is encyclopedic, as is her ability to remember the names of all the people she has worked and interacted with over the years. It is the depth of her knowledge about the environment, though, that is truly remarkable. From weed removal prioritisation, the interlinked biology of ecosystems and the geological events that have formed the land, soil and coastlines to the medicinal and dietary use of ‘weeds’ and the understanding that we live in a cultural landscape that includes even some weeds being European cultural artefacts, Gidja truly interacts with landscapes from a holistic perspective.

Working for decades to preserve and restore native habitat can be an exhausting and challenging business, but Gidja is incredibly positive and hopeful for the future. When I ask how she manages to remain so resilient in the face of often very negative news about

the environment, or the frustrations she inevitably encounters, her approach is inspiring. Gidja replenishes herself in beauty every day, even if that is something as simple as watching a butterfly. She surrounds herself with supportive people who care, and while she is intent on the future, her attention is clearly in the present. Gidja is fundamentally optimistic, asserting that if something is not beyond the bounds of possibility, it therefore remains possible and worth fighting for. Movement is also important to her, with dance a favourite way to release physical tension.

Inherently humble, Gidja says she is honoured by the community support that led to her OAM. She is also grateful for the opportunity to spread the word even further about habitat restoration and preservation, with the award lending weight to her carefully researched arguments and strategies. This well-deserved acknowledgement highlights the important and valuable work she is engaged in to ensure our beautiful Peninsula and the wider country we are part of remains a haven for wildlife and an enriching home for everyone. Snakes and all.

AMY CAMPION

Gidja Walker at her home. Photo: Philip Jensen

Gidja Walker OAM. Photo: Yanni

STORIES

4 Wrap stars start an eco-revolution

We speak to the innovative pair behind The Great Wrap

7 Dromana teen hits volleyball heights

Meet Josh Hodder

8 Samantha is the complete ‘package’

Eco-friendly sustainable packaging

10 National acknowledgement for Gidja

Read about this local ecologist, educator and artist

14 Carving the surf for 50 years

It’s all about mateship here on the coast

25 Rosebud chiropractor finds his wings

Adam Mackey’s book just keeps winning awards

35 Toorak College celebrates 150 years

Empowering students since 1874

81 Sail to lunch

Embark on an exquisite dining experience

84 Vintage, classic and modern cars

On show at Flinders Motoring Heritage, read more

85 Author’s new book

Toni D’Alia has just released The Easter Bunny Hop

OUR COVER

Left: Lauren Wild of Wild Women in Business and Belle Property Mornington & Mount Eliza, one of the many local businesswomen featured in our International Women’s Day feature see pages 46-69

Centre: Caiden Fowler ripping a wave, see story page 14; Manyung Gallery Art & Design in Mornington will feature Stewart Westle in March, see page 87

Right: The timeless elegance of Highview Homes see pages 21 and 122; The Red Hill Show replaces Fruit Cake with Pavlova this year, see page 86.

CONTACT US

92

106-111

39-45

46-69

70-76

77-79

Getting creative to end period shame

Read what the local schools are doing

Tiny Home Expo at Mornington

6 pages covering this forthcoming expo

Mount Eliza, the peninsula’s hidden gem

International Women’s Day

Happy Easter

Take a drive to Red Hill

SECTIONS

Sales: Anna 0401 598 613 anna@mpmag.com.au

Matt 0416 328 938 matt@mpmag.com.au

Journalists & Feature writers: Sarah Halfpenny, Danielle Davey, Amy Campion, Lisa Walton, Mike Hast

Belinda Timmerman publishing@mpmag.com.au Lisa Walton lisa@mpmag.com.au

Online & on Social Media

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Mornington Peninsula Magazine EatDrink Mornington Peninsula

Pages 106-111

14/1140 Nepean Highway, PO BOX 3554, www.mpmag.com.au

Pick up your copy from selected stores and baskets across the Mornington Peninsula and greater Frankston

Our magazines are printed on paper that comes from sustainably managed forests using vegetable-based inks and can be composted or recycled with paper or cardboard waste.

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Bunurong people, the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waters.

Page 70

Page 32

Upskill with a Chisholm short course

The sixth annual edition of Eat.Drink, our much-loved bible for food and wine-lovers, is out now, and what an edition it is!

These are just a few of the 60+ short courses that Chisholm delivers each year. Other short courses available are in business and IT, workplace safety, hospitality and cookery, hair, beauty and make-up, early childhood education,

community and social services, allied health, sport and recreation, automotive, and art and design. Traditionally popular short courses for businesses and individuals have been in first aid, HSR OHS training, art therapy and Microsoft Excel. All courses are taught by industry experts at Chisholm campus locations or live online. A short course at Chisholm may lead to a new job, assist with getting a promotion or enable you to pursue a new career pathway or hobby that you are passionate about.

There are also free and subsidised short courses available in the areas of building and construction, electrical, plumbing and work safety.

To see the full list of courses available or to learn more about free short courses, visit www.chisholm. edu.au/shortcourses

CHISHOLM INSTITUTE

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

T: 1300 244 746

W: www.chisholm.edu.au

FB: ChisholmInstitute

INSTA: chisholm_institute

With more than 120 hospitality venues featured from restaurants and cafes to wineries, distilleries, cideries and breweries, we celebrate the rich and diverse food and drinks culture of our region – and, of course, the people who make it all happen. The hospitality industry is known for its colourful and creative characters, innovative entrepreneurs, and incredibly talented chefs, winemakers, brewers, and frontof-house professionals. It’s a pleasure to be able to share their stories with you.

Each story is brought to life in full colour by Amber from Naturalight Photography. Amber is well known for her effortless style and use of natural light to create captivating photographs.

If you’re shopping for that special gift, Eat.Drink is perfect for friends, family or work colleagues. It is in newsagencies and bookshops across the Peninsula and Melbourne for $20.

To view stockists or order online, go to www.eatdrinkmp.com.au

2024

A range of new short courses are being introduced at Chisholm this year for professionals working in engineering who want to advance their skills in robot design and programming, or programmable logic control (PLC). The new computer-aided design (CAD) short courses have also been designed for professionals or students in engineering, construction or interior design to develop these skill sets in a shorter time than undertaking a full qualification program.

These Super Groms are the next generation of surfers

Carving the surf for 50 years

In 1974, Peninsula Surf Centre owner Ted Bainbridge circulated a flyer telling fellow surfers of his plans to develop a surfers' club. “I think the membership fee should be $2 for Seniors and $1 for Juniors,” it read. “If we hold a few functions we should be able to raise some money to get our own contest T-shirts and get car stickers and stuff together.” Word spread through the surfing community, and the Peninsula Surfriders Club soon sprang into existence.

David ‘Skip’ Easton, one of the original committee members, still plays an active role in the club. President from 1976-78, he has led the club five times. David recalls the surfing scene in the ‘70s as a great time to be growing up. “Going to see bands live was big on Saturday nights, then down the surf after, sleep in the car ready to surf Sunday with a mate or a girlfriend,” David said. The beach car park was full of “anything you could put a mattress in: kombis, station wagons, panel vans, utes with a canopy. You’d get your mum or sisters to make curtains”.

Chris ‘Redeye’ Fowler, a junior when he joined, has also served five terms as president. Chris recalls his nickname came from “a guy at the club when I was 16. Every time I surfed my eyes would be bloodshot from a long day in the water”. Nearly everyone in the club had a nickname, some less affectionate than others: Scratch, Buster, Bazza, Turtle. Chris’s

brothers Tony and Michael – presidents at various times themselves – became ‘Torps’ and ‘Salmon’ respectively. Another long-time member highly respected at the club, Ron ‘Gonga’ Gorringe, remains a great friend of Chris’s 50 years on.

Between partying, the Peninsula Surfriders performed in competitions from Gunnamatta beach to Western Port. Trailblazers at the club who went on to professional acclaim include Gary ‘GT’ Taylor and Wally ‘Tibbs’ Tibbals, winning the Quicksilver Trials. A later success was Andrew Everest, who earned a place in the ISA World Title. Peninsula Surfriders continues to be known for its output of surfing stars.

Member numbers have grown significantly and it’s now a family-oriented club featuring a junior development program called Super Groms. The progression of women and junior girls has also been a launching pad for talent, including Georgia Fish, Ava Holland, Sophie Wilkinson and Sara Hickson.

The past 15 years have seen solid contribution from club stalwarts Sean McDevitt and Lachie McDonald. David’s son James is the club’s head judge, while Caiden ‘Mopey’ Fowler is one of the club’s favourite surfing sons. The spirit of the club lives on in the next generation, and at the 50-year mark there’s no sign of the Peninsula Surfriders Club slowing down.

Members past and present are invited to join the club to celebrate its 50th anniversary at a special event in mid-March. For details, go to www.psc. org.au

DANIELLE DAVEY

Mateship

thrives in and out of the surf.

Caiden Fowler

Chris Fowler, Adam Morris and Ron Gorringe

Disabled surfers hit the beach with a smile and a wave

‘To put smiles on dials’ is the key mission of the Disabled Surfers Association Mornington Peninsula, an aim well and truly realised on January 20 during its first event of the year.

Now surfers are excited at the prospect of returning to Point Leo on March 16 for the next scheduled event, and the public’s invited to head down and cheer them on.

The association enables people of all abilities to enjoy greater access to the beach year-round, often working behind the scenes without fanfare. However, it is in the flurry of activity and the beaming faces of volunteers, surfers and spectators coming together at special event days that the depiction of community spirit is most vibrant. An enthusiastic band of volunteers and carers aid the surfers as they gleefully slide through the waves on the surfboards provided.

Thanks to the unwavering support, hard work and generosity of the DSAMP committee and volunteers, the Point Leo Foreshore Management Committee, Point Leo Surf Life Saving Club, the Rotary Club of Somerville Tyabb and a crew from HMAS Cerberus, the events are smoothly run. Volunteers prepare the beach, transport gear and help pack up – everyone pitches in.

While Disabled Surfers Association Mornington Peninsula events are the culmination of a great deal of team effort, witnessing the surfers’ sheer joy on these days is ample reward for all involved.

You do not need to be a surfer or to have experience to become a volunteer. For more information on events or to ask about becoming a volunteer, visit www. disabledsurfers.org/vic-mornington-peninsula

DANIELLE DAVEY

Photo: Janis House

Road safety campaigner named Citizen of the Year

A longstanding commitment to road safety has earned Nancye-Joy Gardner the title of Citizen of the Year in Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 2024 Australia Day Local Awards. Hannah O’Loghlin was named Young Citizen of the Year and the Dromana Australia Day Event won Community Event of the Year. Bruce Foster Turner and Greg Fitzgerald each received a Lifetime Achievement Award and the Somerville Family Day picked up the Community Spirit Award.

Nancye-Joy Gardner has run road safety programs on the Peninsula and south-east Melbourne for 30 years with Wiser Driver, and since 2016 has held expos to help senior drivers improve their driving skills. For more than 20 years she has been involved in the Sir Hubert Opperman Bicycle Education Competition, which encourages grade 5 and 6 Peninsula students to showcase their bike skills and compete against other

primary schools in a friendly environment. Nancye-Joy is also a JP and volunteers for the coastguard at Safety Beach.

Hannah O’Loghlin was involved with the Mornington Peninsula Shire Youth Advisory Group – now known as the Youth Advisory Committee – for four years. Last year she was encouraged to apply for the 2023 Mornington Peninsula Shire Citizens Panel, which covered such issues as the open air burning local law, the visitor paid parking pilot, waste collection, and the urban forest and road safety strategies. Hannah was invited to speak at the Australian Local Government Women's Association national conference about her experience with the panel.

For 18 years the Dromana Australia Day Event has been running on the Dromana foreshore and attracts thousands of residents and visitors. Started by the McCrae Lions Club with a free breakfast on the foreshore to celebrate Australia Day, it is now organised by the Dromana Australia Day Committee with more than 30 dedicated volunteers. It begins with a free community breakfast and includes live music, children’s entertainment, community group displays, food vendors, and the announcement of the Ray Barnard Brown community youth awards.

Bruce Foster Turner joined the Rosebud RSL sub-

branch in 1986 and has been president since 2013. He encouraged and developed a professional committee culture that resulted in the club’s first strategic planning workshop in 2021, and has been instrumental in attracting top-line entertainers to perform at the club. As a Level 4 tribunal advocate he has successfully represented thousands of veterans and widows. In 2022, Bruce was inducted into the RSL Hall of Fame, and was awarded Life Membership with Gold Bar last August.

Greg Fitzgerald joined the Dromana Rotary Club in 2000 and has been president twice, receiving a Paul Harris Fellow Award for his achievements. He was behind the building of barbecue shelters and picnic tables around the town, got club members involved in the Hillview Reserve project and was the main driver in forming the Peninsula Mountain Bike Committee. He represents the club on the Bay Trail project and is currently lobbying for a walking track under the chairlift at Arthurs Seat.

Somerville Family Day is held each March. Run by a small group of volunteers, it’s a fun-filled day for the community with market stalls, rides, historical displays, food vendors, a huge car show and plenty of free children’s activities. Money raised from the day is given to various groups and associations in need, with donations totalling almost $45,000 since 2017.

Greg Fitzgerald, Nancye-Joy Gardner, Dromana Australia Day Event representatives, Mayor Simon Brooks, Bruce Foster Turner and Hannah O’Loghlin.

Bringing deadly cancer out of the shadows

Sue Manks, formerly a secondary school health teacher from Balnarring, embarked on a bewildering journey of misdiagnoses and frustration when she encountered a range of perplexing symptoms. Hot flushes, an elevated heart rate and severe weight loss plagued her, leading doctors to mistakenly attribute her condition to menopause, anxiety and even IBS. Little did they know Sue was engaged in a battle against neuroendocrine cancer, a relatively unknown and insidious disease.

Neuroendocrine cancer, although the seventh most common cancer in Australia, often evades detection because its vague symptoms mirror those of other ailments. For Sue, the path to a correct diagnosis was a gruelling 12-month ordeal, during which time her cancer stealthily advanced.

Forced into early retirement because of the debilitating nature of her symptoms, Sue's life took a drastic turn with her diagnosis in November 2016. Despite monthly hormone injections of lanreotide and regular check-ups, Sue's battle continued. The cancer spread to her lungs and intestinal area, necessitating delicate surgeries and such treatments as peptide receptor radionuclide therapy.

Sue's path to diagnosis emphasises the significance of persistence and awareness when confronting under-recognised diseases such as neuroendocrine cancer. She has been lucky to have a team of extraordinarily supportive and knowledgeable doctors, but also knows that too frequently people with symptoms such as hers are dismissed or misdiagnosed, allowing the cancer to progress unchecked.

Sue wants to encourage anyone experiencing unexplained symptoms to advocate for themselves if they feel their doctors aren't adequately addressing their concerns. “Listen to your body; you know when something is wrong,” she said. “Early detection is paramount and increases the likelihood of more favourable long-term outcomes.”

Despite her ongoing battle with the disease, Sue appreciates every day, cherishing time spent with family and friends. She remains involved with Riding for the Disabled, belongs to a pop choir and takes part in two book clubs.

Because neuroendocrine cancer is so often overlooked as a possible cause of symptoms, Sue is keen to increase awareness among GPs to ensure it's considered in differential diagnoses and that appropriate testing is conducted. Through sharing her journey, Sue hopes to inspire awareness and prompt proactive healthcare practices, ensuring no one suffers needlessly due to delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment.

For more information on neuroendocrine cancer, visit neuroendocrine.org.au

Sue Manks and her husband, David.

A Sheppard Family Tradition for over 80 Years

Our Hampton style range of homes are designed to reflect modern coastal elegance, light colours, wide verandahs, with an abundance of natural light for the family that wants to experience that “holiday feeling” every day.

Why not come and visit our Hampton Display Centre at the corner of Nepean Highway and Bentons Road Mt Martha.

Opening hours, 11am to 4pm Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday

Eye-catching constellations steal the show

Observing the stars in March, your eyes will undoubtably be drawn to the constellations sitting in the south-east, centred around the Southern Cross (Crux) and Centaurus. Just above Crux, a little further in Carina, is a glowing region known as the Eta Carina Nebula (NGC 3372). It is visible to the naked eye against the Milky Way, with a dark lane of dust running through it, and it is beautiful when observed through a small telescope.

Looking south you’ll find the False Cross, which is formed by four stars in the constellations Carina and Vela. The False Cross asterism resembles Crux but is somewhat larger. Still in the south is the globular cluster Omega Centaurai (NGC 5139), the largest globular cluster in the Milky Way and a must-see object. A large telescope shows many of its stars, while binoculars show the cluster as a bright patch of light. In the west, the Jewel Box open cluster (NGC 4755) in Crux is a nice target for small telescopes and binoculars.

You can also see plenty of objects with a good pair of binoculars, including the open cluster known as the Southern Pleiades (IC 2602). Its brightest member, the star Theta Carinae, can be seen with the naked eye. If you turn binoculars on the cluster, you can see about 24 other sparkling stars.

Meanwhile, Spica, the brightest star in Virgo, twinkles away in the east, with the blazing Canopus in Carina taking centre stage in the south-west sky. The constellation Orion is gradually sinking out of view, so make the most of it before it disappears. Leo is very much still on show and can be found sitting high in the northern part of the sky. Not far away from Leo, a little lower in the north-west, are the brightest stars of the

constellation Gemini: Castor and Pollux. For further information about the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society, such as the upcoming Telescope Learning Day on March 24, monthly 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

As the name implies, the Witch Head Nebula looks suspiciously like a fairytale crone. Formally known as IC 2118, this reflection nebula glows primarily by light reflected from Rigel, and is about 1000 light-years from Earth. Although Rigel is part of the Orion constellation, IC 2118 is considered to be in the neighbouring constellation of Eridanus. Photo: MPAS member Kelly Clitheroe

How you can become a nature steward

If you’re curious about our environment, would like to learn practical skills from conservation experts and find out how to look after nature in your area, you might have what it takes to become a nature steward.

Mornington Peninsula Shire is offering 20 residents the chance to take part in its 2024 nature stewards program. “This course is a great way to expand your knowledge, gain hands-on skills and meet others on the Peninsula who are passionate about protecting our beautiful environment,” the shire said. “This 10-week program is designed to connect you with nature and give you the know-how and practical tools to conserve our unique region, home to an incredible range of plants and animals, including species and areas of national and international conservation significance.”

The program will run each Saturday from March 23June 1, excluding Easter, and you’ll learn about:

• Rocks, soil, fungi, plants and animals;

• Climate change and seasons;

• Ways to care for Country and manage private property;

• Being a citizen scientist, conservation volunteer, advocate for nature or nature guide; and,

• How and where you can volunteer in your area. “During the course you’ll meet a range of local and state-based environmental volunteer and citizen science groups and environmental industry partners,” the shire said. “It’s through connections like these that you can find out what’s going on, how you might get involved, and options for further education and training.”

Mayor Simon Brooks said the shire received “so much positive feedback” after the initial course that it decided to bring it back this year. “If you want to help protect our amazing natural environment, nature stewards is a great way to expand your knowledge and learn practical skills that will empower you to act and make a visible difference,” Cr Brooks said. “The shire’s biodiversity conservation plan outlines our commitment to engaging with the community and building stewards of nature. This program is just one way we’re delivering on this.”

Applications are invited from people aged over 18 with little to no formal environmental training. It costs $175 full fee/$45 concession for shire residents and $350 full fee/$90 concession for non-residents. For more information and to apply, go to naturestewards.org.au

(Richard Goldsmith and Kassey Field)

Rosebud chiropractor finds his wings as an author

Adam Mackey’s Holy Parrot has been named the BREW Book Excellence Award 2024 Multicultural Book of the Year. The Rosebud chiropractor’s multi-award-winning novel weaves a captivating tale set against the backdrop of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Through the eyes of Australian protagonist Leonard Lumière, readers are taken on a journey into magical realism, exploring themes of culture, history, religion, science and nature.

“It is such an honour to receive the award,” Adam said. “The book’s awards and positive reviews are encouraging and valued. With all the world is going through, I truly believe there is a lesson for humanity in the pages of Holy Parrot. Encouraged by the overwhelming support for this story, I am developing the feature film.”

Adam writes under the pseudonym Angel A, a pen-name he took from a character in his first film, Le Saut De L’Ange. “The main character had an angel, referred to as Angel Alex. I wrote my first novel, Mary Poser, as a film script. When I decided to develop the story into a novel, I decided that the narrative needed to be told from Mary’s perspective. As Mary is a 23-year-old girl from Nashville, which I am not, I felt self-conscious about using my name as the author. So I kept the angel theme and created the pen-name ‘Angel A’ to give an ambiguity to the author’s identity.” Mary Poser is also available as an audiobook narrated by Heather Nichols; it was nominated for a SOVAS (Society of Voice Arts and Sciences) for best narration in fiction.

Adam said he resisted the title of ‘author’ or ‘writer’ for many years through “a mix of lack of self-confidence and a desire not to be locked into the title, as I enjoy directing as much as writing. I believe my interest is in storytelling more than writing as a craft. For me, it is a resource for when I have something to say”.

“As a chiropractor, I have been trained in a healthcare system often referred to as the salutagenic model of health care. It literally means ‘the origin of health’, and in practice it is seeking to assist healing by returning to a state of potential. In practice, chiropractic care is more about restoring health than it is about just symptom relief, which is the allopathic model popularised by modern medicine. The stories I write follow the salutagenic model where the main character is driven, or perhaps has little choice but to change their behaviour to discover their true potential.”

Think Local Month

Think. Look. Shop. Love.

Frankston City

Introducing Frankston City Council’s Think Local Month March 2024, encouraging Frankston City workers, businesses and the community to think local first to support small and medium businesses and help strengthen our economy.

Think business workshops and training.

Think Small Business Expo.

Think $1000 business grants.

Think shopping strip entertainment.

Think shopfront decals.

Think Local.

The Lysander, similar to the Glendalter pictured here, was built in Scotland in 1835, and from 1839 she brought migrants to Adelaide and Port Phillip.

From immigrant ship to prison hulk

On her previous visits to Port Phillip the ship Lysander had, after some weeks in port, departed on her return passage. From 1852, however, Port Phillip became her permanent home. The gold rush saw crews deserting their ships and heading for the goldfields hoping to make their fortune while Hobsons Bay was crowded with ships at anchor unable to find a crew for an onward passage. It is not recorded if this was the case with the Lysander but she was purchased in 1852 by the colony as a hospital ship.

It was the same Lysander that had, on November 11, 1850, brought the long-awaited news to Melbourne of the separation of the Colony of Victoria from New South Wales. The Act of Separation was signed by Queen Victoria on August 5 but it had taken more than 13 weeks for the news to reach Melbourne.

Later in 1852, the Lysander’s upper masts and yards were removed, and when the Ticonderoga arrived with more than 300 seriously ill passengers, she became a quarantine hulk at Portsea. She remained there until 1854, being in constant use.

During the gold rush of the early 1850s

the colony had a serious problem with where to put convicted persons after they were sentenced. There was not enough space in the jails. In the two years from December 1851, the number in prison rose from fewer than 30 to nearly 1000. The answer was to use ships as prison hulks, and the Lysander joined four other prison hulks in 1854. She often held ships’ crews charged by their captains. The crews were locked up awaiting trial on some trumpedup charge and were available for their captains to bail out in time to depart for the onward passage. Few cases came to trial because of the busy schedule.

The Lysander came to her end sometime after 1885, when the Victorian government ordered the prison hulks be broken up, but her bell is preserved in the Australian Gallery of Sport at the MCG. It was used at Pentridge Prison, at Coburg Fire Station and at the MCG from 1921 to 1956 by timekeepers at football matches.

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.

FrankstonCity

A Florist In Seaford

Growing minds and branching out at Mornington Park Primary School

Mornington Park Primary School celebrated a significant milestone as the Steiner Stream marked its 21st year of nurturing young minds amid the lush greenery of the Mornington Peninsula. What began as the vision of a dedicated group of parents, who lovingly planted and tended saplings to create a haven for holistic education, has blossomed into a thriving community where children flourish under the nurturing canopy of knowledge and creativity. Now their affectionately named Mrs. Apple Tree and

there, the children ‘Fly Up’ to their Class 1 teacher, who journeys with them through to Class 6, allowing the teacher to establish deep connections to the children and their learning. Academic content is delivered using overarching themes – main lessons – that allow students the time to investigate and deeply immerse themselves in the subject matter.

Students are enveloped in a range of experiences designed to ignite their curiosity and nourish their souls. From seasonal festivals to community markets, from orchestra performances to class plays and open days, every event is imbued with a sense of reverence and celebration, honouring the journey of each child. Indeed, the impact of Steiner education extends far beyond the school gates as past students return to share their successes in secondary school, university and beyond. Whether they pursue careers in film, business, trades or health care, they regularly credit their ability to think creatively and tackle challenges to the foundation laid during their formative years at the school.

Mrs. Mulberry stand tall, providing fruit for the children to snack on and bearing witness to the laughter and learning that fills the school grounds. From the early days with founding teachers Lyn Fleming, Jan Raabe and Elaine Thompson at the helm to the present day under the guidance of principal Beverly Dadds and assistant principal Kathleen Lord, the teachers at Mornington Park continue to support their dualstreamed school.

In a world where standardised education often overlooks the individual, Mornington Park's Steiner Stream stands as a beacon of personalised learning that encompasses the head, heart and hands of each child. Here the curriculum is not confined to textbooks, but flows seamlessly through the rhythm of the day and the seasons, with academic content woven into the fabric of creative exploration and practical skillbuilding.

The curriculum focuses on meeting the needs of the child, with a play-based Prep program that supports physical, social and emotional development. From

As Mornington Park's Steiner Stream looks ahead to the next 21 years and beyond, it does so with a sense of gratitude for the tireless dedication of parents, teachers and students who have helped shape it into the nurturing sanctuary it is today. With each passing season, the roots of Steiner education at Mornington Park grow deeper, anchoring generations of learners in a lifelong journey of discovery and fulfilment.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Steiner Stream students engage in nature weaving.

Hair’s something we can ‘do’ for mental health

It’s the defining Australian hairstyle: hot, sexy, never out of fashion. If its enduring popularity and head-turning good looks aren’t enough to tempt you to join the masses and embrace the mighty mullet, the Black Dog Institute’s Mullets for Mental Health campaign should be all the encouragement you need.

The institute is calling on all Aussies to go “business at the front, party at the back” next month to show their support for the one in five of us who experience mental illness each year. Mullets for Mental Health is a national virtual challenge where the fashionable among us shape and grow their mullets to help raise money for the institute’s crucial mental health research and support services.

“In Australia, suicide is the leading cause of death for people aged 15-44,” said institute researcher Dr Sandersan Onie. “For every single suicide death, there are 20 times the number of attempts. Recent research has shown most people who attempt to end their life don’t want to die and are looking for any reason to continue living. What that tells us is any intervention – whether it's a tap

on the shoulder, a text message or even an internet pop-up – holds the potential to save someone's life.”

Since 2020, more than 30,000 caring community members have grown mullets and raised close to $12 million to support the institute’s groundbreaking mental health research. This puts digital services and education into the hands of the people who need it the most.

According to Black Dog:

• Nine people die by suicide in Australia every day

• Suicide rates for people living in regional and remote areas are above the national rate

• More than three-quarters of mental health problems occur before the age of 25

• More than half the people living with mental illness will not seek professional help.

“Mullets for Mental Health is a fun and engaging way to start those important mental health conversations that are critical to supporting your mates,” said campaign manager Tom Farrar. “It’s a great way to show your fellow Aussies that you’re all ears for better mental health and suicide prevention in our communities.”

Students enjoy garden play at the Steiner Stream of Mornington Park Primary School.

The institute said money raised by those taking part this year can support novel and innovative suicide prevention

programs, assist in the research and development of digital mental health tools and apps for adults and children, and help community presenters reach school students to talk about mental health in schools and how to get

support.

Help create better mental health for all Australians. Register online at www. mulletsformentalhealth.org.au

pets

Hoofing it into people’s hearts

Trotting through the picturesque walking tracks of Pearcedale you may find Echo, a charismatic Appaloosa horse, accompanied by his owner, Sarah Oliver. At 10 years old, Echo captures attention with his gentle demeanour, curious nature, spotted coat and heart of gold. Named for his ability to reflect the emotions of those around him, Echo serves as a trusted guide at Be At One Equine Assisted Learning, where he provides nonjudgemental feedback to clients seeking solace and

connection. Despite a back condition that prevents him from being ridden, Echo finds joy in exploring the great outdoors, particularly relishing the crunchy sweetness of fresh carrots along the way.

Echo's quirks are as endearing as they are entertaining. From picking up the pooper scooper with his teeth to striking a pose for the perfect selfie, Echo's playful antics never fail to bring a smile. His knack for communication extends beyond horseplay, as he often indicates exactly where he wants to be scratched, much to the delight of his admirers.

But Echo's greatest talent lies in his ability to inspire. For Sarah, Echo's presence is a source of joy and comfort, offering unwavering support during challenging times. This bond led to a deeper exploration of equineassisted learning, culminating in the establishment of Be At One Equine Assisted Learning, where Echo and his paddock friend Toto offer transformative experiences to clients seeking personal growth and connection.

Through tailored sessions grounded in trust and empathy, Echo helps people build valuable life skills while fostering unique, non-judgemental relationships with these majestic creatures.

So whether you're exploring the scenic trails of Pearcedale or simply craving a dose of equine magic, Echo invites you to join him on an adventure filled with warmth, wonder, and plenty of neighs along the way.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Sarah Oliver and her beloved horse Echo

education and parenting

Empowering students since 1874

Celebrating 150 years, Toorak College honours its past while advancing towards the future. A pervading theme spanning its lifetime, the Mount Eliza boarding and day school has always maintained contemporary relevance while simultaneously respecting its heritage. Toorak College now educates the leaders, innovators and changemakers of tomorrow, empowering young women to explore their passions, voice their opinions and pursue their dreams without limitations. Exciting events are planned in 2024 to commemorate Toorak College’s milestone.

The college’s name pays homage to its first location in Toorak, beginning there as a boys’ school in 1874. Converting to the education of female students

exclusively in 1897, the school moved to Mount Eliza in 1928 after its tenure at two other Toorak sites, with the new beachside position providing the space for desired expansions.

The first building erected at Mount Eliza was created by the same architects who designed Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance. Nowadays the Hamilton Building, a large grey structure, is affectionately known as The Elephant. Its bricks transported from the original site, the reconstruction of the Hamilton Building at Mount Eliza was the inspiration for the new school song Brick by Brick – a nod to the past and a call to the future. Composed in 2023 by current students, staff and alumnae, it includes original poetry from the first day the school set foot in Mount Eliza, featuring the lyrics: “We built it brick by brick, rising proudly by the bay; Now the new is in the making, our adventure has begun, and there’s a bond that we all share within these walls.”

Notable alumnae whose own adventures began at the school include Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gumtree songwriter Marion Sinclair; pioneering aviator

Freda Thompson; trailblazing medical practitioner Vera Scantlebury Brown; novelist, screenwriter and playwright Joanna Murray-Smith; writer and comedian Jean Kittson; Olympic rower Jane Robinson; and Australian Rules footballers Jess and Sarah Hosking. Toorak College recognises the transformative power of education, particularly within the context of an all-girls environment, and has expanded to include modern buildings dedicated to visual and performing arts, music and STEM – a sign of its aptitude for moving with the times. Classrooms and sports zones are designed with today’s student in mind. Returning for class reunions sometimes decades after completing their secondary education, Toorak College alumnae are awe-struck by the changes. Imagine the amazement of its earliest students if they could see the school now. A calendar of special events has been curated to celebrate 150 years of Toorak College. For details, go to www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au or phone the school on 9788 7200.

DANIELLE DAVEY

Dino-mite insights as Tania’s tale unravels neurodiversity for kids

The inspiration for Seaford author Tania Wieclaw’s children’s book When My Brain Is Messy stemmed from a series of life events that converged to create a powerful narrative. After completing a self-publishing course that her friend had created, and being encouraged to write a book, it was a museum visit with her son that sparked Tania’s initial idea. Her son was overstimulated and hyperactive, and described his overwhelmed state as a "messy brain". This moment of insight, coupled with Tania's recent transition from her job in the dental industry to full-time parenting, laid the foundation for the book's creation.

The protagonist of When My Brain Is Messy, a young autistic dinosaur, serves as a collective representation of the sensory experiences of Tania's family. Through the dinosaur's journey, Tania

weaves a tapestry of relatable challenges, from sensitivity to noise and light to struggles with touch and an overactive mind.

Central to the book are coping mechanisms designed to help young readers regulate their emotions in the face of these sensory differences. Techniques such as movement breaks, emotional release and sensory resets offer valuable tools for navigating the complexities of neurodiversity.

Tania realised there was a gap in the market for younger children aged two to eight when it came to the topic of neurodiversity. Seeking to boost the representation and diversity of this age group in children's literature, she provided a relatable character for neurodivergent children that also fosters understanding and acceptance among readers.

Tania’s personal journey of receiving an autism and ADHD diagnosis in 2021 profoundly influenced the themes and messages in her book. Writing became a cathartic experience, allowing her to heal from past traumas and share valuable insights with others on similar paths.

As the parent of autistic and ADHD children, Tania navigates the challenges of parenting with flexibility and understanding, creating an inclusive environment for her family. Through shared experiences and mutual support, Tania and her family embrace their neurodiversity with grace and compassion.

When My Brain Is Messy has received widespread praise from professionals and readers alike, serving as a valuable resource for neurodivergent children and their families. From occupational therapists to teachers, Tania's book is making a positive impact in homes and practices worldwide.

Looking ahead, Tania is exploring new avenues for neurodiversity awareness. From creating educational resources for schools to promoting neuro-friendly initiatives, she is committed to making a difference.

When My Brain Is Messy is a beacon of hope, acceptance and understanding for readers of all ages, thanks to Tania’s heartfelt storytelling and unwavering advocacy.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Mount Eliza

The Peninsula’s Hidden Gem

Stray from the well-worn track down the Mornington Peninsula’s coast and you’ll find yourself in the village of Mount Eliza. Here you’ll discover a genuine boutique environment away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. Be greeted warmly by the slow-paced, friendly atmosphere of a vibrant local community, and take time to shop, eat, drink and chill.

North of Mornington and just off Nepean Highway, this shady, tree-lined village is home to an interesting mix of independent shops with not a chain store in sight. Women’s and men’s fashions, homewares, specialist food and wine merchants, and the best quality fresh produce abound, and there’s also no shortage of beauty and personal pampering services.

Remember the days of quality customer service rather than just ‘hard sell’?

Well, it still exists here in abundance. The friendly and knowledgeable retail staff tend to be the business owners themselves and therefore they’re the ones with stories to share and a passion for the services they provide.

With cafes full of deliciousness, juice bars, an irresistible ice-creamery, extended outdoor dining areas and the outdoor beer garden of the local hotel,

there’s plenty of refreshment choices to sustain you before, during and after your shopping spree. New businesses continue to open, showing their confidence in the business community,

and the vibe is good.

Come enjoy the special ambience of a shopping trip, including dinner, in Mount Eliza Village, where you’ll find boutique shopping at its best.

Health and Wellbeing

• Yoga Classes

• Chair Yoga

• Balance and Mobility

• Nordic Walking

• Walking Groups

• Gentle Exercise

Hire our Venue

We have 2 activity rooms, 1 meeting room, kitchen, spacious decking and a playground for children with a great view of the surrounding park. Our resources include computers, smart TV, digital projector, Wi-Fi and seating for 40 people throughout the centre.

Suitable for business meetings or social events such as children’s birthdays.

What’s happening at Mount Eliza Neighbourhood House Inc.

SHOP 2/87 MOUNT ELIZA WAY, MOUNT ELIZA

Peninsula Endermologie delivering results for beauty and health

Enjoy transformative results with Peninsula Endermologie’s non-invasive mechanical massage treatment. Using the latest LPG Endermologie technology, we gently stimulate the skin, reactivating dormant cellular activity for firmer skin, reduced cellulite, fat loss and enhanced circulation for a deep detox effect. It’s backed by more than 160 clinical studies, so you know you’re in safe hands.

Our 100 per cent natural and painless treatment guarantees visible results with no side effects. In the Dermscan Endermologie® study 2016, 71 per cent of women reported improved skin firmness; 67 per cent of women reported reduced cellulite after just three sessions and a waistline fat reduction of 5.2cm after 12 sessions.

Niamh at Peninsula Endermologie uses the latest Alliance technology, ensuring you achieve results that leave you looking

and feeling fabulous, because it's not just about appearances; it's about health. Our treatments provide a revitalising lymphatic massage, relieving tired legs and boosting your body's natural immunity.

Book a consultation with Peninsula Endermologie today and indulge in the serene ambience of our discreet home-based salon. Redefine yourself, rediscover confidence, and

revel in a healthier, more radiant you.

PENINSULA ENDERMOLOGIE WELLNESS & CELLULITE SOLUTIONS

A: 120 Humphries Rd, Mount Eliza

M: 0434 946 209

W: www.peninsulaendermologie.com

FB: peninsula.endermologie

INSTA: peninsula.endermologie

Your children will feel right at home

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Mount Eliza, Mt Eliza House Sanctuary of Early Learning was established in 1996 and has been providing a consistent quality of care ever since.

Only a stone’s throw from the bay, we travel via our centre bus and incorporate Beach and Bush Kinder weekly into our program. Other classes include Music and Movement, Indigenous Wellbeing and Mindfulness sessions and Art classes with Robyn’s Room, as well as visits to the local aged care facility for our Intergenerational program.

With large natural outdoor environments and six inviting rooms, the children spend their days exploring their world, creating positive friendships and developing empathy and respect. Our curriculum reinforces connections with nature and encourages autonomy, problem-solving and creativity.

We invite you to tour our service to see for yourself the home-like play spaces and feel the family and community vibe that is Mt Eliza House. There are currently vacancies for government-funded three and four-year-old kindergarten, so enrol now.

Sleep well with The Smile Place Mt Eliza

The Smile Place Mt Eliza is at the cutting-edge of dentistry and wellbeing. Principal dentist Dr Andre Schertel and his team forge strong relationships with their patients to ensure ultimate comfort and confidence. This is a dental clinic where streamlined dentistry and the use of advanced technology results in life-transforming smiles.

If you’re searching for a dental clinic that provides comprehensive service, look no further than The Smile Place Mt Eliza. Here, dentists and hygienists work together to provide a premium dental service while the clinic’s up-to-date technology delivers radical results.

The team at The Smile Place Mt Eliza are experts in treating a wide range of tooth and gum issues, including gum disease, tooth decay and

toothaches, discolourations, monitoring and removing wisdom teeth and offering implant treatment options to replace missing teeth. They also provide snoring treatments to aid patients who suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea.

Dr Schertel explains: “Sleep apnoea affects millions of people each year, but because it occurs at night while you sleep, people can be unaware they are suffering. We work alongside local sleep physicians and technicians to assess and treat our patients. A dental device such as a mandibular advancement splint (MAS) can help patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea. It is a discreet, lightweight and convenient alternative to CPAP therapy.

“Our recommended oral device is a 3D-printed nylon MAS, which is very effective for treating mild to moderate sleep apnoea and snoring. It works to open the airways by bringing the lower jaw, tongue and associated soft tissues forward, stopping them from collapsing the airway during sleep. It is essential to be fitted for one of these in an accredited dental clinic and to return for regular check-ups, as the device may need

periodic adjustments for the best results.”

Make your dental care a priority this year with The Smile Place Mt Eliza – the smile-making professionals who deliver person-toperson care. Book online @THE SMILE PLACE MT ELIZA

THE SMILE PLACE MT ELIZA

A: 1299 Nepean Highway, Mount Eliza

T: 9775 4600

W: thesmileplace.com.au

#Inspire Inclusion - Forging positive change for women & girls

International Women’s Day has always been a major event for us at Mornington Peninsula Magazine, and this year we hope to inspire everyone to understand and value women’s inclusion.

#Inspire Inclusion is the theme for IWD 2024 on March 8 and we invite you to join us in adding our voices to those across the Peninsula and around the world in shouting for belonging, relevance and empowerment.

IWD is a day to celebrate all women in all their diversity and embrace their many facets and intersections of faith, race, ethnicity, gender or sexual identity, or disability. Join us as we celebrate the achievements of women in our community, whether social, political, economic or cultural, on the following pages and at the many local events over the coming days.

In this special IWD edition of Mornington Peninsula Magazine, we’re focusing on the achievements of enterprising women and community leaders in Greater Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. We’re proud to shine a light on the contribution they make to where we live. Over the next 24 pages you’ll read stories of remarkable women and their businesses; you’ll also hear from inspiring women sharing their talents.

Mornington Peninsula Magazine is a huge supporter of local business and we have a predominantly female team. This is always a very special edition, and some of the women featured this month have been our clients for 17+ years. We feel privileged to bring you 30+ amazing women and the stories about their lives and their businesses. Many have unique offerings you may indeed have been looking for.

Support local and shop local at our wonderful local businesses – especially those run by women – to celebrate International Women’s Day.

How will you celebrate International Women’s Day?

International Women's Day

on March 8 is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and to build support for women’s rights around the world.

The theme for International Women's Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. But what does this mean and how can we put it into practice?

To include women means to embrace their diversity of race, age, ability, faith, body image, and how they identify.

When women aren't present in positions of power or aren’t represented in sport or aren’t receiving as much pay as men in similar roles, we must ask: "Why not?" When the treatment of women is not equitable, it’s everyone’s responsibility to speak up. On International Women’s Day, and all future days, you can do your part by seeking

out the inclusion of women and girls and inspiring others to understand and value women's participation.

For organisations and groups, there are many ways to make sure the needs, interests and aspirations of women and girls are valued and included. Some of these include:

• Recruiting, retaining and developing female talent

• Elevating women and girls’ participation and achievement in sport

• Supporting women and girls into leadership, business and STEM

• Designing and building infrastructure to meet the needs of women and girls

• Helping women and girls make informed decisions about their health

• Promoting the creative and artistic talents of women and girls.

For more information, including ideas and suggestions on how you can #InspireInclusion, visit www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/iwd

Lisa Walton, publisher Mornington Peninsula Magazine

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Be motivated by speakers at WiB event

Women in Business Mornington Peninsula is hosting its third International Women’s Day this month with keynote speaker Catherine Fox AM.

Catherine, an award-winning journalist, author and presenter and a leading commentator on women in the workforce, will be joined by Bass & Flinders director Holly Klintworth, who became the first female president of the Australian Distillers Association; Nomuckerlener Indigenous Training, Consulting and Mentoring owner Jillian West; and Rosebud Secondary College’s forward-thinking principal, Lisa Holt.

This year’s event will be held at The Cambium, a gorgeous space nestled in the Peninsula hinterland dedicated to inspiration and collective action. It will include a fundraising auction to

support WiBMP’s two charity partners, Kara House and Women's Spirit Project. There will be music by Australian singer/songwriter Heidi Luckhurst, and Peninsula photographer Amber Gardener will be on hand to capture the magic of the day. Incredible food and drink will be provided by Peninsula producers including Red Gum BBQ, Janey B’s, Penni Ave, Crittenden, Mr. Velvet Ears, Rahona Valley, Etch Sparkling, and Three Bays Water.

Join WiBMP on Friday, March 8, from 12.30-3pm for the celebration that is International Women’s Day and give thought to how to help create a more equitable and inclusive world.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS MORNINGTON PENINSULA

W: www.womeninbusiness.org.au

FB: WomeninBusinessMP

INSTA: womeninbusinessmp

Inspirational speakers

A community change-maker and a family violence leader are the two inspirational keynote speakers at this month’s Rotary International Women’s Day Breakfast Frankston Mornington Peninsula.

Jodie Belyea is the CEO and founder of The Women’s Spirit Project, which aims to inspire, empower and support women experiencing disadvantage to change the trajectory of their lives. Through her work in the community sector, Jodie found that women affected by a range of risk factors were not able to access fitness, health and wellbeing activities, so she developed the project with the help of a group of exceptional women from the corporate, education,

for IWD breakfast

fitness, government and health sectors. Assistant Commissioner Lauren Callaway leads family violence, sexual assault and child abuse responses for Victoria Police’s Family Violence Command. The former journalist and published writer has spent 28 years in policing, creating solutions for forensic intelligence, post-sentence management, women’s barriers to success, and strategic planning in education. “What matters most to me in a policing sense is aligned to my role and my values, especially my thinking on gender equality,” Lauren said.

The breakfast is on Wednesday, March 13, at Mornington Racecourse, 6.45am for a 7am start. Tickets: $67 or $670 for a table of 10. Bookings: https://events. humanitix.com/rotary-internationalwomen-s-day-breakfast

Lauren

Assistant Police Commissioner

Jodie Belyea founder of Women’s Spirit Project

#Inspire Inclusion - Forging positive change for women & girls

Female-led partnership inspires young women in law

Nadine Udorovic is a family lawyer and a partner at Nicholes Family Lawyers in both its Melbourne and Geelong offices. Nadine has spent many summers enjoying the best the Mornington Peninsula has to offer, holidaying with her family and being involved in various community programs such as Peninsula sport clubs.

With 20 years' experience practising in family law, Nadine is one of five female partners at Nicholes Family Lawyers. Working in an all-female-led partnership is inspiring for young women in law who aspire to succeed in the legal industry, where gender is not prohibitive to a successful and rewarding career.

Nadine is well versed in an abundance of family law matters such as complex parenting cases, financial and financial relief matters, international family law, child abduction and relocation, and child support and intervention order cases. Nadine focuses on advocating for out-of-court settlements where possible to allow for a more relaxed and streamlined nature to an arduous process.

If you need advice on a family law matter, seek an expert such as Nadine at Nicholes Family Lawyers.

NICHOLES FAMILY LAWYERS

A: Level 12, 460 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

T: 9670 4122

A: 343 Pakington St, Geelong

T: 5292 8881

W: www.nicholeslaw.com.au

E: reception@nicholeslaw.com.au

Michele sets out to prove that anyone can paint

Owned and run by Mornington contemporary artist Michele Ling, Paint Your World exists to inspire, educate, empower and uplift people through art. This is something Michele is passionate about, and she believes art and colour play an important role in our lives.

Michele’s love of colour greatly influences her work and is reflected in it. Her varied styles range from the whimsical and quirky through to layered drippy abstracts, often incorporating figures, words, birds and nature in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours.

But while Michele is herself an accomplished artist, her real passion is fostering a love of art in others. Her motto is “Learn to paint; anyone can”, and through her role as an art tutor she sets out to prove that during regular classes and workshops at her bright and beautiful studio in the heart of Mornington. This is a creative space where children and adults can reconnect with the joy in their life through painting, allowing them to create, play and feel, build confidence, develop new skills, raise self-esteem, and allow for self-expression in a fun and safe environment.

Take your curiosity to the next level and join one of the following classes currently on offer:

• Paint’n’Sip nights

• Adults’ art workshops and classes

• Kids’ and tweens’ painting, drawing or digital art

• Private tuition

• Art4All, a four-week NDIS program for adults

• Private bookings for events such as bridal showers, corporate gatherings, birthdays and Christmas parties.

Find your mojo and learn to paint with Michele Ling.

PAINT YOUR WORLD

A: 15/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington

M: 0417 425 116

E: hello@paintyourworld.com.au

W: www.paintyourworld.com.au

FB: paintyourworld.au

INSTA: paintyourworld.au

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Red Hill institution returns to its former glory

The new owners of Red Hill General Store took possession of the keys during the last week of September 2023 and opened at the start of October, excited at the prospect of their dreams becoming a reality. Their mission was to bring the 98-year-old historical store back to its former glory, to re-establish it as an authentic and beautiful general store that delighted the eyes as well as the stomach.

At the helm is Kerryn White, a fully qualified chef and barista who in a previous life trained baristas across Australia after being in a national role for a major corporate company for 15 years. As well as running tea training in Australia, Kerryn facilitated the national School of Teas in each state when the owners of Sri Lanka’s Dilmah School of Tea visited to run tea-training. In all she has spent more than 30 years in national management throughout the food service industry, but having once lived in Red Hill she says it’s awesome to be back and seeing familiar faces as well as meeting new friends.

Also in charge is Baylin White, who has a diploma in early childhood education and a certificate in community services on top of a wealth of hospitality experience. The women complement each other’s styles, so who better to run the Red Hill General Store.

“We are two women – energetic and full of enthusiasm,” Kerryn said. “We love

food, coffee and wine, and moreover we love the Mornington Peninsula, of which Red Hill is of course the heart. We are two dedicated businesswomen who want to see Red Hill General Store become a brand, a destination, and above all a success.

“We adore our customer base and love making our customers smile and being part of their day. We love Red Hill, the locals, being part of the community and sharing banter.

“Our vision was to run a successful business that is the Red Hill General Store: fully stocked with a wide variety of amazing products, operating at its full potential. We love stocking the shelves with great local produce and convenience items, fantastic décor and gifts, serving hot coffee and tea, beautifully delicious cakes and slices to tempt you, and all the essential items you need. However, having happy, satisfied customers and bringing a smile to their faces is the best part of what we do.” In fact many are saying they have the best coffee on the peninsula.

Red Hill General Store is a destination and an institution for the passing traffic and residents alike, with quality meals and an amalgamation of both in-house chefmade items and local produce from top stockists.

RED HILL GENERAL STORE

A: 83 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill

T: 5989 2222

FB: Red-Hill-General-Store

INSTA: redhillgeneralstore3937

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Beautiful Peninsula is doing it tough: MP

It has been a busy start to 2024, with three weeks of February spent in Canberra. The Dunkley by-election in the neighbouring electorate has brought senior ministers to the Mornington Peninsula and I have continued to ensure regular visits from shadow ministers to this beautiful but often overlooked part of Australia.

It was a busy summer period, although all our small businesses report different spending patterns due to the unprecedented cost of living pressures that our community is facing. Money is tighter and holidays are shorter.

Since the government changed in May 2022, food has gone up by 9 per cent, gas by 27 per cent, and electricity by 20 per cent. Even back to school costs are up, with 30 per cent of parents unable to afford expenses such as stationery and uniforms.

Wages are rising, as is the cost of employment, causing stress for our small businesses, but wages aren’t going up enough to beat one of the highest inflation rates in the Western world – higher than the US, Canada and Italy.

People’s savings are down and people are eating into their savings – if they have them –to meet increases in rent of up to 20 per cent. The average mortgage now costs $24,000 more each and every year, and that is just in interest payments, making no indent on principal owing.

The lack of infrastructure spending in our region creates more pressure than it should in relation to congested intersections like at Jetty Rd in Rosebud, and dangerous intersections

like at Forest Drive and Uralla Rd in Mount Martha. Over summer there were more lifethreatening accidents at the Forest Drive and Uralla Rd intersections, and tragically one fatality. This is an absolute disgrace, given that the funds to undertake safety upgrades have been on the table since they were announced in 2019 by the previous Coalition government. The Federal Government has ripped out over $300 million from the Flinders electorate and cancelled the Jetty Road overpass and noise barriers along the Mornington Peninsula Freeway, and scrapped the Frankston to Baxter rail upgrade. However, in an effort to improve our public transport and modernise the Peninsula’s rail network, I was thrilled to join Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, Senator Bridget McKenzie, Senator Jane Hume and Dunkley candidate Nathan Conroy in early February to announce that an elected federal Coalition government would commit $900 million for the Frankston to Baxter rail upgrade.

Parliament returned in the first week of February to discuss cost of living pressures and changes to industrial relations, all of which will affect Peninsula residents and businesses. Working with our state parliamentarians, I will keep fighting for your needs and interests each and every day.

ZOE McKENZIE MP, Federal Member for Flinders

A: Unit 1/49 Eramosa Road West, Somerville T: 5977 9082

W: www.zoemckenzie.com.au

FB: ZoeMcKenzieFlinders

INSTA: zoemckenzieflinders

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Achieve great momentum with a little motion

Dennice Allen has long had an interest in exercise and wellness. After gaining graduate and postgraduate qualifications in economics and finance and spending most of her working career in financial services, she transitioned to spend more time pursuing her passions. Last year, after completing an advanced diploma in myotherapy, she started her company Motion for Momentum.

“My role as a myotherapist and as a sport and exercise scientist allows me to focus my research on wellness in adults and the super-aged,” Dennice said.

Bringing many years of experience to her work with an empathy for the older exercise/ sporting enthusiast, Dennice focuses on providing an experience for post-40-year-olds to come and enjoy a therapeutic or sports massage and obtain a specialised exercise program. She encourages her clients to reap the rewards of taking time out to allow the mind and body time to relax in a comfortable environment. “A bit of motion can result in great momentum,” she said.

Dennice has continued to deepen her experience and focus, undertaking postgraduate study in sports and exercise science as well as attaining lymphoedema-specific therapy skills so she can keep up to date with the research and gold standard applied in a specialised type of medical massage.

She is particularly interested in assisting women beyond their 40s and those fighting serious health issues who want to either build up their strength or condition their bodies that have been affected by surgery. This area of specialisation is focused on the management of post-surgical recovery from such diseases as cancer, post-traumatic issues such as sports injuries, and to support overall wellbeing.

Dennice is a board member of the Myotherapy Association of Australian as well as vicepresident of Masters Swimming Victoria. She also volunteers at Peninsula Parklands in Hastings to increase health and wellbeing through seminars and active group sessions, and you can find her coaching the Masters swimmers at Hastings, Crib Point or YAWA Rosebud.

Dennice believes it doesn't matter at what stage you are in life, it's the deep connection with others that brings about everlasting value to each person and the community.

MOTION FOR MOMENTUM

A: 102 Myers Rd, Bittern

T: 0450 244 863

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Just For Blondes has got you covered

When Lynn Weston struggled to find a product to cover her grey regrowth, she took matters into her own hands and made one herself. just for blondes was born.

“just for blondes is a small hair and beauty brand dedicated to empowering blondes to feel their most confident and beautiful,” said Lynn, a Peninsula resident for more than 30 years. “My flagship product is a revolutionary solution for touching up blonde roots and is designed specifically for blondes to enhance and maintain our natural beauty as well as saving time and money on regular trips to the salon.

“My main focus is on the specific needs of blondes, aiming to fill a gap in the beauty market by offering a high-quality and easy-to-use product that really works and achieves a totally natural look. My product ingredients are safe, effective, cruelty-free and easy on the wallet.”

Lynn described her just for blondes root cover-up as a “game changer”. After trying many products that either didn’t match her hair colour or just didn’t work, she decided to produce one herself. Not only did it successfully cover her regrowth and look natural, it had the added bonus of saving her time and money by extending the time between salon visits.

“This has been a lifesaver for me. l no longer have to worry about my roots showing, as just for blondes has got them covered.”

To purchase just for blondes root coverup, visit www.justforblondes.com.au and enjoy 20 per cent off as a special offer for International Women’s Day.

JUST FOR BLONDES

W: www.justforblondes.com.au

FB: justforblondes1

INSTA: justforblondes_

Just for blondes Root Cover Up that really works!

www.justforblondes.com.au

Female-led clinic provides health care for all

Doctors Rachel Duncan and Roxanne Daniels run the familybased Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, focusing on the best patient care and rehabilitation. This clinic is unique, being femalerun for more than 30 years in Mount Martha village.

At Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, Rachel and Roxanne take the time to listen to you and tailor care to your specific needs. They have a special focus on pregnancy and family care, and they absolutely love working with people of all ages. You will find that Rachel and Roxanne really enjoy spending extra time with older patients to help improve their well-being. Chiropractic care is gentle, safe and effective, and the team at Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic are nationally registered and regulated health care professionals. “Our bodies have an amazing potential to heal, and our team love to assist our patients

on their health journey,” Rachel said. “Many things can impact our health and the spine: nutrition, stress, sleep, ergonomics, the environment or exercise. The scope of chiropractic is extensive as we seek to improve the wellbeing of our patients.”

Both Rachel and Roxanne have volunteered internationally and locally to help those who would not be able to access health care otherwise. Rachel has provided care for disadvantaged people from Cambodia to Narre Warren, while Roxanne has been to India for two weeks of volunteer work and has contributed to Hands on Health on the Peninsula, which is designed to help people who are struggling to access good health care.

MT MARTHA CHIROPRACTIC & SPORTS INJURY CLINIC

A: Unit 2, 15 Bay Rd, Mount Martha

T: 5974 3477

W: www.mtmarthachiropractic.com

FB: mtmarthachiropractic

INSTA: mtmchiropractic

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Interior design that reflects our coastal lifestyle

Life on the Mornington Peninsula is at the heart of Birdrock Studio’s design philosophy. Owner and interior designer Liz Kuehne is passionate about creating homes inspired by our unique coastal environment and how we live within it.

“Getting to know my clients and their reasons for living on the Peninsula is my No.1 priority,” Liz said. “Being invited to design a person’s home is a highly personal process and a privilege, which I don’t take lightly.”

Understanding her clients and how they want to live in their home is Liz’s key to successful interior design. Take it from Loren, a former Birdrock Studio client: “I loved that she took the time to get to know our family and how we saw ourselves living in the home, and how we wanted it to feel. She was meticulous in thinking through every detail from tile selections to light fittings, and the result is a beautiful, warm, light-filled and functional family home.”

Birdrock Studio offers a range of services, from starting with a two-hour consultation for those seeking some

instant guidance on their renovation, through to full-service interior design, which includes spatial planning, kitchen and bathroom design, selection of all materials and fixtures, and detailed technical drawings and 3D renders to communicate the design vision to clients and trades. Liz can also curate furniture, art and styling pieces for your home.

Liz enjoys a collaborative approach with her clients, with regular catch-ups, progress presentations and updates.

“Keeping a client informed throughout

the design process is so important. In a lot of cases it’s the first time a client has engaged a designer, so I want them to feel at ease and included in the process as much as possible.”

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design and a Diploma of Interior Design, and winning the DIA Victorian Graduate of the Year award in 2021, Liz brings a wealth of design knowledge and practical experience to the table. After enjoying a successful career in fashion design and buying in London and New York, she shifted her creative focus

to interior design. “What I love about interior design is that each project is unique. No two houses or clients are the same, so I’m constantly challenged and inspired.”

If you are planning a renovation or new build and are feeling overwhelmed by the process, Liz would love to assist in creating your dream home.

BIRDROCK STUDIO

T: 0429 075 010

W: www.birdrockstudio.com

E: hello@birdrockstudio.com

INSTA: birdrockinteriors

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Businesswoman achieves her Italian dream that you can share

Melanie McDougall credits the year she spent in Italy for really helping her understand what life-work balance could feel like. It’s a message she’s hoping to spread to other women – and couples –this International Women’s Day.

The Mount Martha mum and businesswoman recently launched her new business, Verde Italia, to give other people a taste of slow travel in Italy’s ‘green heart’, Umbria. When you meet Melanie, you know she’s a people person, fun and thoughtful.

“We keep our travel groups small, wellpaced and luxurious,” Melanie said. “You’ll see the main sites and the less-known ones.

You’ll meet real locals and have time to breathe and relax, too. We want the tours to feel like a group of friends travelling together, experiencing an authentic journey; not a typical tourist.

“I’m such a foodie, so naturally that’s also important,” she laughed.

After a successful career in fashion and event management, Melanie, her husband Anthony, and their young son Ari headed for a year in Italy to experience life in a hilltop village.

“There was such joy in that slower way of life, where the neighbours were welcoming and our in-season fresh food often came from our own garden and orchard,” she said. “We also discovered how much we enjoyed taking our frequent visitors from home on impromptu tours and sharing our deepening passion for Umbria and Italy.

“It was even better than we’d hoped. We came home with the idea that grew into Verde Italia, taking small groups of people on personalised tours each May and September-October, the best times to visit for mild weather.

“I believed I had another business in me so I blended my passions – Italy, travel, food and people – with a manageable lifestyle and created Verde Italia. I’m very excited to share ‘my’ patch of Italy with people who want to savour Umbria, the magic hilltop villages, stunning scenery, deep history and memorable experiences such as a private cooking class, dinner in a local’s home, truffle hunting, yet with time out for some pampering.

“Besides our regular tours, we also create custom trips in Umbria for small groups of six or more. So what special celebration do you have coming up?”

For more information, contact founder and tour leader Melanie McDougall on 1300 853 103 or visit www.verdeitalia.com.au

T: 1300 853 103

W: www.verdeitalia.com.au

VERDE ITALIA

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Canvassing good vibes

Welcome to The Sorrento Studio, an artistic playground for Mornington Peninsula-based contemporary artist Jackie Green. With a background in traditional freehand signwriting and custom-made signs, Jackie brings her eclectic fusion of typography and iconography into the free-flowing world of abstract expressionism.

Jackie creates bright, vibrant artworks that bring positive energy to your home. Soft pinks, pastels, neons, layers and texture are all elements she uses in her original artworks, which she creates under two banners: Urban Rhythm and Coastal Contemplation. Her urban-inspired works layer pastels, neon, lettering and symbols in vibrant creations depicting the intoxicating energy of a modern urban buzz.

On the flip side, her Coastal

Contemplation works draw inspiration from the raw beauty of nature, captured in muted, natural tones and organic elements carefully considered to evoke a sense of seaside serenity. Whichever way you see it, it’s clear that every work is lovingly created to generate good vibes only.

Jackie also offers printed canvases of selected pieces in limited editions, and she is available for private artwork commissions, collaborations and gallery exhibitions. Her works feature in foyer lobbies, galleries and homes.

Jackie’s new studio is located at The Studio and Co in Moorooduc.

THE SORRENTO STUDIO

A: 545 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc W: www.thesorrentostudio.com.au

545 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc | www.thesorrentostudio.com.au

The Accountant That Builds

Meet Shannon Smit, founding director of SMART Business Solutions Group who is testament to the fact that one can never stop learning, skill building and evolving. After spending 11 years working at one of the world’s largest accounting firms in Melbourne, New York, Amsterdam and Prague, Shannon chose to build her own accounting firm on her home soil of the Mornington Peninsula – a decision fuelled by a desire to create something that suited her growing family and a drive to nurture other small businesses to help build something better. Now in its 17th year, SMART Business Solutions is recognised as one of the most progressive and professional multiservice advisory firms on the Peninsula and beyond.

Shannon added a further string to her professional bow two years ago by completing her licensing as a mortgage broker, an additional service now offered at SMART and specialising in complex business and SMSF lending, in addition to residential loans and refinancing.

Not one to sit still, Shannon and the team have recently released The Accountant That Builds, a small business and finance podcast focused on providing actionable advice to empower individuals and business owners to build

lives and businesses they really love.

“The podcast is something I have been wanting to do for quite a while,” Shannon said. “After all these years in business and having seen and experienced so many situations, I have so many real-life stories and insights that are just waiting to be heard.”

Tune in to The Accountant That Builds online at www.smartbusinesssolutions. com.au/podcast or listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

SMART BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

A: Level 1, 328 Main St, Mornington

T: 5911 7000

W: smartbusinesssolutions.com.au

FB: SMART.SBS

Caregiving with a personal touch

Sylvia Davey, the owner and managing director of Home Instead Frankston, shares her inspiring journey from caring for her family to a career providing care services to seniors on the Mornington Peninsula.

“I first cared for my father when he was palliative over 20 years ago. He didn't want to go into a facility. Back then, home care wasn't what it is today. So I took leave from my job and learnt to care for him at home. Even though I didn't have any formal training, I still managed to get the equipment I needed. I also had help from the Cancer Council. That was a very impactful experience knowing that I gave him the best life possible right to his last days.

“About five years ago I decided to move from Queensland to the Mornington Peninsula where my godparents live. Their health had started to go downhill and I'm the only virtual family they have. I cared for Auntie Pat for six months before she passed. I still support Uncle Ken, who is 95 and lives at home independently.

“Home Instead began in America in the early ‘90s. It's now throughout the US, Europe, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and a few other countries. Home Instead has a well-established network with tried and tested policies and procedures; at the same time, each Home Instead is tailored to the local market.

“The values of Home Instead are very personal to me because it's very much a part of my life. It's about providing the best care for older people. So when I came to be with my godparents, I took the opportunity to start a Home Instead in Frankston.

“We take pride in having a strong local presence and a local personal touch in our office. We're just down the road and we can pop in and visit you with flowers if you’ve gone to the hospital. When you call our office, there is a person who answers the phone as opposed to a call centre.

“Keeping it personal often lies in the small details, like helping a client feed her cat while she is in the hospital, linking clients with services that are tailored to their needs and interests, and working with local staff who are

familiar with the area. It’s about creating a more personal connection. And from personal connection we can foster trust and reassurance within our community.

“The vision for me is to keep it personal and to share this message with our clients and our staff through our dayto-day work. It always makes me feel proud when I get feedback from clients and staff members that we are more than a business and they can sense that we care.”

HOME INSTEAD FRANKSTON

A: Suite 1, 290 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Frankston South T: 9785 6666

W: www.homeinstead.com.au

FB: HomeInsteadFrankstonMornington

INSTA: homeinsteadfrankstonmornington

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Pearls of wisdom from our wonderful women

Yo-Ko Original Boutique invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day in store on Friday, March 8, from 10am-2pm. Frock up in purple, green and white and enjoy refreshments while hearing stories from women in our community as they impart pearls of wisdom.

One of the vitally important values held by Yo-Ko Original is that the boutique is a safe space for women to connect and interact, which they did during Yo-Ko’s Christmas Pampering Week.

Annie from Yo-Ko and Sophia from Room Trader & Co wanted to give back and shine a light on the amazing women in our community. “As we approach International Women’s Day, I am reminded that the stories we hear in store and shared conversations with women assist us in celebrating who we are individually and encouraging

balanced steps around self-esteem and self-worth,” Annie said.

“We sometimes joke that Yo-Ko is ‘changing the world one frock at a time’, but in the end it’s not just about the frock, but about encouraging your sister. And if we have had a small part in that process, then that is a privilege for us to stand with ‘my sister’.

“Yo-Ko has become something of a destination hotspot, with many of our customers responding to our ads in Mornington Peninsula Magazine and visiting us from as far afield as the bayside suburbs. We hope to see you in store soon.”

YO-KO ORIGINAL BOUTIQUE

A: 33 Armstrongs Rd, Seaford

M: 0418 525 872

W: www.yokooriginal.com.au

FB: yokooriginal

INSTA: yokooriginal

‘Our Help – Your Home’ true to brand

Since beginning operations in 2017, Henrietta’s Help @ Home director Stephanie Tate has made sure the service delivery, client relationship development and recruiting of likeminded staff for her in-home services business remain consistent with the business’s motto: ‘Our Help – Your Home’.

“Although we have multiple service segments covering senior support, child care, cleaning/home management and private event hospitality, we pride ourselves in not having a standardised ‘cookie cutter’ offer in any of these categories,” Stephanie said. Many Peninsula retirees and parents with young children have little or no extended family nearby, so support for even non-emergencies is often a challenge. For seniors, attending appointments, community involvement, or changes in ongoing health needs can trigger fears of not being able to continue to live independently. Families with young children, working mothers or single parents are also challenged to

cover the variety of activities and events that add to the demands of daily life.

“Our service contracts are designed to meet each individual’s or family’s needs,” Stephanie said. “Staff often utilise multiple skills and experience with one client, such that we can provide nanny/cooks, carer/companions, senior support/house managers as well as our renowned additional job-specific service: wedding nannies and wedding senior carers for visitors or guests attending venues on the Peninsula.”

Stephanie is equally proud that employment is provided to women who are returning to the workforce and may require work in school hours, or those who want to change from working in structured organisations. “Skills, personality and reliability are the key criteria; the rest just flows when they meet our appreciative, friendly clients.”

HENRIETTA’S HELP @ HOME

T: 9766 1099, 0425 733 290

W: www.henriettashelpathome.com.au

FB: Henriettas Help at Home

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Danae’s passion for people and real estate runs deep

Danae Eden has just taken over as the new sole director at Barry Plant Mornington, providing the very best in customer service, local expertise and real estate experience.  A Peninsula resident for almost 40 years, she has played a pivotal role in the success stories of countless clients since launching her career back in 1993.

“My family have always had strong ties to Mornington,” Danae said.  “My parents and siblings live here, my husband is a local tradie, and my kids attended local schools. It’s a fantastic place to live and work – very family-friendly, with great wineries, craft markets, a choice of schools and sports and recreational activities. The beaches are amazing, and Main St has such a great atmosphere.” Despite her many years in the business, Danae’s passion for people and real estate is still evident. Friendly, considerate and easy to communicate

with, she is an efficient and wellorganised professional who thrives on the excitement, variety and social aspect of her work.

Under Danae’s leadership, the new team at Barry Plant Mornington love coming to work every morning and look forward to growing as a team to continue reaching new heights in the real estate industry.

Away from her busy work commitments, Danae enjoys spending time with her family, attending events, catching up with friends for coffee and shopping on Main St, and most days you will see her keeping fit on one of her early-morning runs.

BARRY PLANT MORNINGTON

A: 172 Main St, Mornington T: 5975 4999

W: www.barryplant.com.au/offices/ mornington/

FB: BarryPlantMorningtonRE

INSTA: barryplant.mornington

www.barryplant.com.au/offices/mornington

Strong women make an amazing team

Sarah was a licensee at a busy hotel in Tasmania before coming to Melbourne to teach hospitality at TAFE. Finding the out-of-hours work a struggle without a lot of support, she decided to reinvent herself and start a business that fitted around her children’s school and sports commitments, and in 2013 Sarah’s Domestic Bliss Cleaning was born.

“I started with one two-hour job every second Monday, and over the past 10 years it has grown into a company with about 20 female staff and more than 350 customers,” Sarah said.

“I employ single mums, young girls starting out, and women returning to work. We also have ladies that just want a change of career for better quality of life. I work around the girls’ commitments and roster them accordingly. We fit in around school hours as well as offering long shifts for the girls wanting many hours. I have some girls that have a lot on their plate and we sometimes just create a shift so they can come and fold cloths in the factory just to get them out of the house to have some adult interaction.

“I love my job and my girls. I have an amazing team of strong women that make this business so successful – we won the Professional Services Award for

the Mornington Peninsula in 2023.

“International Women’s Day is important in my house for another reason too: my daughter was born on that day, and she happens to be just as strong as her Mum.”

SARAH’S DOMESTIC BLISS CLEANING

A: Mornington

T: 5925 6011

W: www.domesticbliss.com.au

FB: Sarah.Domestic.Bliss.Cleaning

INSTA: sarahsdomesticbliss

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Lauren’s dedication and work ethic deliver results

Lauren Wild is a dynamic entrepreneur with a stellar track record in real estate, aligning her vision with Belle Property. With seven successful years of owning her own business and a passion for excellence, Lauren brings her exceptional skills to the forefront in her new role as a dedicated sales professional, ready to assist both vendors and purchasers with their buying and selling needs.

Her impressive work ethic and astute business acumen, cultivated through years of hard work and experience, have played a pivotal role in the remarkable success of her previous agency. Lauren and her business partner at the time bought into a real estate business that had no real asset behind it. Over the course of eight years, Lauren had a prime role in growing the agency to be worth a seven-figure business and recently sold it to focus in on her clients and establishing a second business.

Lauren also has a second string to her bow as the founder of Wild Women in Business, a thriving community networking group focused on fostering high-level collaborations and taking women from a job mentality to a business ownership mentality. Lauren has not only demonstrated her prowess as a business leader but has also championed professional growth and empowerment.

The International Women's Day celebration on March 1 at Mornington Racecourse marked an inaugural awards event for Wild Women in Business. Thirteen awards across diverse categories recognised excellence, innovation, and emerging businesses, fostering empowerment and networking opportunities.

The Wild Women in Business Mornington Peninsula and Frankston Awards serve as a platform to champion businesswomen, fostering a supportive community. It's not just an occasion to acknowledge achievements but also an opportunity for reflection and congratulations within a network that understands the challenges and triumphs of being a businesswoman. "When you have the right community, resources and connections, it's a whole lot easier," Lauren said. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lauren remains deeply committed to personal development and actively engages in community initiatives. Having recently released her first podcast for Wild Women in Business, in which she interviews business owners on the challenges of business ownership and growth, Lauren truly believes that a new movement is coming: The Who Movement. Lauren believes we all have similarities in our ‘why’, but once we start to focus on ‘who’ we want to become as individuals and leaders, that is when we will see the most growth.

In her role with Belle Property, Lauren brings a profound dedication to excellence and is poised to provide invaluable assistance to clients in their buying and selling endeavours. Clients can expect the same high-level commitment, work ethic and expertise that Lauren has consistently delivered throughout her remarkable career in real estate.

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Warm, honest, and made with love

Angela Lord has come a long way since first enticing people with Sri Lankan food from her mobile food truck – and it was love at first bite with a fifth placing in The Age’s top 10 Melbourne food trucks in 2020.

Angela began cooking as an eight-year-old and has been on a learning curve ever since, working in the food industry and wearing many hats before opening Ceylon Girl’s in Frankston just over two years ago.

Ceylon Girl’s – a reference to Angela’s heritage – is a delight to behold. This art-filled café serves delicious food from a variety of cuisines. The offering is simple but truly wonderful. Everything served here is made fresh using excellent ingredients. This is food cooked with skill and, more importantly, love. “My satisfaction is knowing my customers are satisfied with their food,” she says.

“Sri Lankan cuisine is a melting pot of different cultures from the Dutch, Portuguese, English, and surrounding countries. What unites them is the quality. I only use the very freshest and best Sri Lankan spices. I make my own spice blends from scratch.”

Angela is passionate about supporting local producers, sourcing more than 90 per cent of her produce from the

Frankston area. She also supports local musicians, charities and community services, providing food and even her café for a range of events. “I am a huge believer in giving back to the community.”

Try the all-you-can-eat buffet every Wednesday night. NEW: every Friday night Ceylon Girls now run a buffet dinner at Mornington RSL, check it out.

Mornington Peninsula Magazine food writer Richard Cornish described Ceylon Girl’s – “said to be the best Sri Lankan restaurant in Melbourne” – as “warm, honest and simple. Sri Lankan ex-pats flock from all parts of the metro area to dine on classic dishes from the tropical island nation”.

CEYLON GIRL’S CAFÉ & BAR

A: 16 Skye Rd, Frankston

T: 0412 383 252

W: ceylongirlscafe.com.au

Helping secure the future of Main St businesses

In the aftermath of the fire that destroyed several businesses on Main St, Mornington, the community is rallying together to rebuild and recover.

Among those leading the charge is Rosemary Callaghan, a dedicated insurance professional with a passion for protecting business owners and their assets.

Rosemary and her team at BJS Insurance Brokers Mornington are working closely with the Mornington Chamber of Commerce to develop a risk management and mitigation plan for Main St landlords and traders. "Understanding all your risks and having the right insurance plan in place is vital to protect your business from threats to its survival,” Rosemary said. With more than two decades of experience, Rosemary specialises in helping small to medium-size businesses tailor their insurance portfolios, including

property owners, retail operators, and the trades sector. As a Peninsula resident and the branch manager at the BJS Mornington office, Rosemary has deep ties to the community and understands the importance of supporting and protecting local business.

On this International Women’s Day, Rosemary will celebrate being part of BJS, a female-led business, and is extremely proud that her daughter is following in her footsteps. If you’d like a better understanding of the risks to your business and how to mitigate them, get in touch with Rosemary and her team for a free risk review.

BJS INSURANCE BROKERS MORNINGTON

A: Suite 6, Level 1, 315 Main St, Mornington

T: 1800 208 397

E: mornington@bjsib.com.au

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Painters pave the way for gender diversity

In 2014, SG Coatings emerged on the Mornington Peninsula as a professional painting company founded by Sophie Grover. It’s missions from the outset was clear: deliver high-quality residential and commercial painting services on the Peninsula while actively prioritising the inclusion of female painters within the team.

Sophie brings two decades of experience to lead the SG Coatings team, which is composed of both females and males, highlighting the commitment to diversity and talent within the company. The team is all about creating beautiful transformations for their clients, and their testimonials speak volumes about their commitment to professionalism and attention to detail. The team's punctuality, considerate and caring approach, and their genuine dedication to excellence have left a lasting impression on their clients, earning SG Coatings a reputation for exceptional service on the Peninsula.

Recently featured on the television program Better Homes and Gardens, SG Coatings showcased its female painters in action on a Mount Eliza project, overcoming industry challenges and stereotypes. This exposure not only underscores the team's resilience but also serves as an inspiration for women dreaming of entering the construction industry.

Sophie's passion for giving back to the community also landed her a position on the board of Master Painters. Her involvement has been a clear indication of SG Coatings' positive impact on the industry. The company stands as an example, supporting and promoting women in construction as well as rights for homeowners.

Looking forward, Sophie envisions a future where more opportunities are presented to women in trades. The goal is to address the current gender disparities in the industry and pave the way for more female painters and tradeswomen in general.

While SG Coatings won't be hosting specific events for International Women's Day this year, the company

continually celebrates and recognises the achievements of its female-led team day in, day out, emphasising the importance of gender diversity in the workplace.

SG Coatings is not just a painting business; it's a leader in reshaping the narrative in the painting industry and an integral part of the Peninsula community, contributing to the region’s vibrancy. As we mark International Women's Day, let's applaud businesses such as SG Coatings that are making strides towards a more inclusive and diverse future.

SG COATINGS

T: 0468 390 058

W: www.sg-coatings.com

E: info@sg-coatings.com

Ideas By The Bay a dream come true

In January 2012 I finally followed a dream to run a retail store with my sister Deb as the confident one who found us the opportunity.

Ideas By The Bay had been operating for nearly 16 years as a kitchen and homewares store. I'd come from enjoying working at an independent bookshop but also had experience in accounts.

We wanted to create something unique, a place to offer customers things they wouldn't have seen before. Five years in I ran solo and kept evolving the dream.

Moving further up the street three years ago has meant our clientele has expanded and with new space has come newer ideas, including a garden. Fundamentally we offer quality ranges from mostly smaller businesses, artists and artisans.

I am passionate about Australian flora and fauna, which is reflected in our offerings.

We are so fortunate to be a part of the Mornington Peninsula, and many of our best goodies promote that too.

FIONA SMALE

IDEAS BY THE BAY

A: 79 Main St, Mornington

T: 5977 0708

W: www.ideasbythebay.com.au

FB: IdeasByTheBay

INSTA: ideasbythebay

Relax with the girls at Kanasta Caravan Park

Nestled in the heart of Rye, Kanasta Caravan Park offers a unique holiday experience with a range of accommodation options. With a passion for creating unforgettable memories, the team has transformed Kanasta into a haven for families, travellers, and their four-legged friends. Thanks to the Caravan Parks Grant, Kanasta has upgraded its facilities for an enhanced experience and has taken another step towards sustainability by installing solar panels.

Conveniently located near many tourist attractions on the Mornington Peninsula, including the Peninsula Hot Springs just five minutes away, Kanasta’s a leisurely stroll from the Rye boat launching ramp, cafes, shops, restaurants, pubs/clubs, and the safe swimming beaches of Port Phillip. Our park's secure, tree-lined, quiet location in a court provides a peaceful retreat for your holiday.

Choose from our self-contained ensuite

cabins, vintage/retro caravans with annexes, and three or four-bedroom holiday homes all next to the park. We've lovingly restored and renovated 12 of the park's older-style retro and vintage vans, each with unique female names celebrating the retro/vintage era. At Kanasta, we love pets and offer petfriendly accommodation options. As avid animal-lovers, we donate more than half of our pet fee to The Mornington Peninsula Dog Rescue.

Make the most of the gorgeous Peninsula and celebrate the women in your life with a getaway at Kanasta Caravan Park. Owned and run by women, we understand your needs for a holiday and specialise in making your stay one to remember. Whether it's a girls' weekend or a family retreat, we've got you covered.

KANASTA CARAVAN PARK

A: 1-9 Sinclair Ave, Rye

T: 7064 5571

W: www.kanastacaravanpark.com.au

FB: kanastacaravanpark

INSTA: kanastacaravanpark

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

The Mornington retailer where women shine

Shades of Australia is a secondgeneration family-owned and operated retailer with more than 30 years in business. It’s also a proud employer of women, who hold a variety of positions from ownership and management through to consultants and support staff. All are working mothers and all have daughters.

An industry leader, Shades of Australia provides a premium range of custommade window coverings, outdoor shades and soft furnishings. As an independent retailer, the business works only with market-leading suppliers to source the right solution for your area. Shades of Australia has recently started working with textile supplier Ink and Spindle, a female-owned and operated business that creates bespoke hand-

printed designs on ethically sourced textiles.

If your window coverings are past their prime or you’re looking for some respite from our harsh sun, Shades of Australia has everything you need. The Mornington showroom has a custom roman blind in the Riverbend design on display, as well as working displays for eZIP, Verosol, Silent Gliss, Somfy & Renson and many other brands.

Shades of Australia also offers a free measure and consultation service to the Mornington Peninsula, Bayside, Melbourne areas and beyond.

SHADES OF AUSTRALIA

A: Shop 8A, 1-13 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Mornington

T: 5975 9366

W: www.shadesofaustralia.net.au

FB: Shades of Australia

INSTA: shadesofaustraliamornington

P. 5975 9366

www.shadesofaustralia.net.au

Shop 8A, 1-13 Mornington-Tyabb Rd Mornington

Leading the way with community care

For 20 years, The Sports Injury Clinic has been helping community members achieve their goals with a range of specialised allied health services, including physiotherapy, concussion treatment, Pilates, myotherapy, remedial massage and podiatry.

TSIC’s caring and holistic approach stems from the inspiring vision of CEO and co-founder Pippa Hanson.

Instilling a culture of ‘Support for Every Body’, Pippa leads her team of experienced health professionals focusing on not just injury treatment and recovery, but helping their clients work towards and maintain optimum health, fitness and overall wellbeing.

Perhaps a little less known is Pippa’s commitment to the community extending well beyond the management of TSIC.

She is an active member of many Peninsula businesses and leadership

groups, most recently supporting the Wild Women in Business Awards and judging the applications. This is just one example of Pippa’s tireless efforts to support the community.

In recognition of her exemplary work, Pippa recently won the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

“This award is not mine alone; it is a testament to the dedication and unwavering commitment of our remarkable team,” Pippa said. “Working alongside this extraordinary team is an honour, a privilege, and a source of immense joy.”

Pippa and co-head of physiotherapy Lynda Miller were also awarded the Frankston Business Collective’s 2023 Business Excellence Award in the Health and Care category. Such accolades are a testament to Pippa and her dedication to the philosophy of ‘Support for Every Body’, truly leading the way with community support and care.

Rebecca, Sharon, Elisabeth and Kristie

#Inspire Inclusion - Forging positive change for women & girls

Embrace the joy of learning with tai chi

Tai chi is a journey for life, one on which you’re continuously learning and growing. After more than 30 years as a student and teacher, Rising Moon Tai Chi business principal Sifu Jenny Harrison is not even close to slowing down.

In the past year Jenny has been involved with a Melbourne University PhD study, where she planned and delivered a 12-week online program teaching tai chi to people with osteoarthritis. For her work in this area she was named co-author of the study. She has been instrumental in developing a Tai Chi Professional category with Australia’s peak fitness body, AUSactive, and this month she is hosting a visiting Master for a series of tai chi workshops. She was MC at the recent competition organised by the Wushu, Tai Chi and Qigong Association and she has trained her own students in Beijing 24 and 42 Form, earning gold and silver at the competition.

“Unlike other organs, the brain has the ability to constantly change,” Jenny said. “We can improve cognitive function, we

can slow the ageing process and enhance memory. Continuous learning also increases our selfconfidence; we become more social and we enjoy a feeling of fulfilment because of our accomplishments.

“No longer are we in school, so we don’t have to follow the rules. We can take our time, we can be curious, we can try anything we want to. Our memories of what may have been harsh school days can fade into obscurity as we embrace the joy of learning.”

RISING MOON TAI CHI

T: 0418 566 216

W: www.risingmoontaichi.net

FB: risingmoontaichi

INSTA: risingmoontaichi

LEARNING CHANNEL: watch.risingmoontaichi.net

Tai Chi Classes

Enjoy the calmness and stillness of tai chi while gently exercising the body and the brain.

For more information call 0418 566 216 or visit www.risingmoontaichi.net

Bernadine’s success serves to inspire women everywhere

Bernadine Geary, the powerhouse CEO of Style Finance Group and co-owner of Sk8house in Carrum Downs, is the living embodiment of balancing life's many facets. Her recent presentation to the Frankston Business Collective Women in Business shed light on her remarkable journey of resilience, determination and unyielding passion. Bernadine effortlessly navigates the complexities of running two diverse businesses while being a devoted wife and mother to her two children. Despite her demanding schedule, she remains deeply involved in community initiatives supporting roller sports and the Frankston Business Collective.

Bernadine's journey to success has been rife with challenges, especially in maledominated industries. Early in her career, she faced gender biases and stereotypes that put blockages in her path. However, her unwavering self-belief and determination propelled her forward, leading her to break barriers and shatter glass ceilings.

Her transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was marked by bold decisions and calculated risks. Despite setbacks and obstacles, Bernadine persevered, carving a niche for herself in the finance industry and establishing Sk8house as a thriving entertainment hub.

Bernadine attributes her success to the significance of discovering one's tribe, reaching out for support when needed,

and making self-care a priority. She encourages women to embrace their authenticity and stop from apologising for being themselves.

With her infectious laughter, indomitable spirit and boundless energy, Bernadine serves as an inspiration to women everywhere. As she continues to juggle the demands of her many roles, she remains steadfast in her commitment to empowering others and fostering a culture of inclusivity and support wherever she goes.

SK8HOUSE

A: 3/2 Amayla Cres, Carrum Downs

T: 9773 6799

W: www.sk8house.com.au

E: info@sk8house.com.au

Photo: James Pyne Photography

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Dance, empower, celebrate: a studio where women find joy

Founded in a Somerville garage in 2015 by dance enthusiast Aimee, Dance Heels Up has evolved into a beacon of empowerment for women on the Mornington Peninsula. Fuelled by her passion of coaching, high heels, and love of such sensual styles as Latin and pole, Aimee sought to offer a dynamic alternative to traditional gyms, focusing on women's confidence, sensuality and femininity. Now operating in Frankston and Narre Warren, the studio offers stiletto and sneaker-based classes such as tease, twerk, heels, hip-hop fem, commercial and chair. DHU is known for its supportive atmosphere and the encouraging culture it fosters for absolute beginners and beyond. Aimee balances her role as a dance studio owner with a career as a software solutions consultant, showcasing the multifaceted nature of modern women.

At the heart of the studio's success is an all-female team led by Aimee, comprising core instructors Mackenzie, Marnie, Shaylee and Shariz. Together they create a nurturing environment where every woman is encouraged to thrive. This team celebrates the progress and growth of each student, from shy beginners to confident dancers, a transformation that positively affects their lives beyond classes. Much like Aimee, her team exemplifies the versatility of women; when not teaching dance, they work as therapists, support workers and in customer service, paving the way for women to embrace and excel in multifaceted roles.

DHU is more than a dance studio; it's a vibrant community for women's empowerment, selfexpression and unity. The community feedback underscores the studio’s significant impact, with many students reporting its transformative role in

enhancing self-confidence, forging friendships, and nurturing self-love. The studio shines as a sanctuary, providing a vital escape where women can combat anxiety, find their voice and celebrate their bodies through dance in a judgement-free space that promotes body positivity. Highlighting the profound ability of dance to create connections, Aimee's story of meeting her best friend Rachel during an early class in 2015 underscores the strong bonds nurtured within the studio.

Through annual live showcases that celebrate women’s courage and the journey from studio to stage, the studio has solidified its role as a safe and empowering space. These events are a testament to the environment Aimee has created, one that encourages women to step out of their comfort zones and express themselves unapologetically.

DHU embodies an ethos of empowerment, self-love and community connection, transforming each session into a journey of personal empowerment and mutual support. As enthusiastic supporters of International Women's Day, Aimee and her team dedicate themselves to celebrating womanhood daily through every class and interaction, making each class an invitation to step into the world of dance-fitness and embark on a transformative journey for women to freely express themselves and thrive.

DANCE HEELS UP

A: Frankston and Narre Warren

E: info@dancehu.com

W: www.danceheelsup.com.au

FB: danceheelsup

INSTA: danceheelsup

#Inspire Inclusion - Forging positive change for women & girls

Celebrating four decades of creativity, community and quality

Craft Markets Australia stands as a beacon of community spirit and creativity led with pride by Louise Gamon, the daughter of one of the original owners. Having grown up immersed in the markets, assisting her mother with a potpourri stall, Louise possesses a deep understanding of the community that surrounds CMA markets. Since its inception in 1975, CMA has blossomed from a simple idea among four couples at a dinner party into an institution that brings high-quality makers’ markets to picturesque Victorian locations.

Nestled in the serene hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula amid the charming beauty of Red Hill, CMA was born from a dream to provide a platform for local producers, artists and craftspeople to showcase their talents and connect with their community. Today, more than 48 years later, Louise proudly carries forward this vision, overseeing markets in some of the most stunning locations across Victoria.

Stepping into a craft market is like entering a realm of creativity, where one encounters a delightful mix of trendy creations and nostalgic stalls that evoke cherished memories from childhood. It's an invitation to wander, taste, enjoy and be inspired by the craftsmanship and creativity on display.

“At CMA, we adhere to a simple philosophy: to provide high-quality market experiences in Victoria's most beautiful locations,” Louise said. “Our commitment to fostering connections between communities and local producers has remained steadfast over the years. From the historic Point Nepean to the rolling hills of Gippsland, from the majestic peaks of Yarra Glen

to the bustling Mornington Racecourse – and of course our flagship event at Red Hill Market – we curate experiences that transcend mere shopping trips.

“Our markets are family-friendly affairs, offering a chance for people of all ages to explore new horizons, connect with regional makers, and embrace a more sustainable approach to consumption. We take pride in sourcing the freshest, most creative and best-made goods, ensuring that every stall beneath our marquees reflects our commitment to quality.”

Behind the scenes, Louise’s very experienced team and an extended family of community volunteers, makers and producers work tirelessly to create memorable experiences for market patrons. Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or a firsttime visitor, they eagerly anticipate welcoming you to one of their scenic markets soon.

As Craft Markets Australia continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: its dedication to celebrating creativity, fostering community connections and championing high-quality craftsmanship under the guidance of Louise, who brings her passion and heritage to every aspect of the markets. Join CMA on this journey as it continues to weave the threads of tradition, innovation, and community spirit into the fabric of its markets.

CRAFT MARKETS AUSTRALIA

A: 10a Satu Way, Mornington

T: 5976 3266

W: www.craftmarkets.com.au

FB: craftmarketsaus

INSTA: craftmarketsaus

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Disability advocate forges a remarkable legacy

Sandi Grace has spent her entire life on the Mornington Peninsula and is proud to call it home. She is a mum of two teenage daughters and is the CEO and founder of the locally based disability service organisation, Grace Professional Services.

Sandi started the business in 2019, becoming a registered NDIS provider in February 2020. She hired her first employee one week before the first COVID lockdown. During the lockdowns, she worked 20-hour days for months to support the most vulnerable people in our community. Her commitment to supporting the community and making a difference does not end there. Sandi was the founder of Sisterhood FMP, providing information and awareness of domestic violence throughout Frankston. Sandi initiated many unique campaigns that are still making a positive impact today. She is the founder and President of Hear Together Australia, a rapidly growing support group for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. She is the volunteer President of the Frankston Toy Library and has been a volunteer for 13 years with this group, supporting it to become one of the largest toy libraries in Australia.

Sandi volunteers with a large variety of local organisations and has won several awards for her volunteering efforts. Professionally though, Sandi is immensely proud of the work being done at Grace Professional Services, which has grown quickly and now supports NDIS participants nationally and is a leader in the field.

“We aim to deliver the highest quality service possible,” Sandi said. “We are fully NDIS registered, ISO accredited and have achieved perfect scores in many of our accreditations; we have an amazing team. My goal is to hire local people, parents of children with disability and individuals living with disability. I have lived experience in this area and bring the unique perspective of someone who truly understands.”

Grace Professional Services was recently a finalist in the 2023 Frankston Business Collective Awards in recognition of the high-quality Support Coordination services provided to NDIS participants. “I am passionate about making a difference, supporting others, contributing to the local community, and I am committed to leaving a legacy behind of which I can be proud,” Sandi said.

For more information about the NDIS Support Coordination team at Grace Professional Services, visit www.graceprofessionalservices.com.au or phone 0429 430 806.

GRACE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

T: 0429 430 806

W: www.graceprofessionalservices.com.au

FB: GraceProfessionalServices

INSTA: graceprofessionalservices

Grace Professional Services provide Support Coordination to NDIS participants

Our dedicated, professional and experienced team are ready to help and support you to obtain the services you need to get the most from your NDIS plan

#Inspire Inclusion - Forging positive change for women & girls

Phones out, let’s capture the magic

With more than a decade of experience in the digital space, Merrin Munroe has witnessed countless trends wax and wane. As we step into 2024, it's clear that video marketing is not just a trend, but a cornerstone of digital strategy.

Merrin champions the idea that effective video marketing is achievable on any budget, advocating for the use of smartphones to produce snackable content for your business videos. Her extensive background in broadcast TV, spanning more than 25 years, equips her with insider knowledge on creating professional quality videos using just your phone.

Video content does more than boost your online visibility; it empowers you to shape the perception of your brand, allowing your unique style, personality and expertise to shine through. Helping potential clients to engage with the authentic you, enhancing the connection and trust, is crucial for business success.

Merrin provides a suite of services tailored for business owners who may feel intimidated by the camera, are looking for a nudge to get started, or aim to elevate their smartphone videos to a professional standard. Through video production, workshops and online courses, she offers support to small business owners. Leveraging her expertise means accessing a wealth of knowledge on producing high-quality video content without sacrificing production values, ensuring small businesses can stand out in the digital landscape of 2024 – and have a little fun while making them.

Outside of digital marketing, Merrin is a volunteer with the Flinders Lions and the Main Ridge CFA, and she lives all over the Peninsula as a pet sitter.

MERRIN MUNROE

A: 1/31 Henry Wilson Drive, Capel Sound

T: 0409 821 685

W: www.merrinmunroe.com.au

FB: merrinmunroedigital

INSTA: merrinmunroedigital

Eyewear as individual as you are

Main Street Eyecare has been kicking goals since their relocation a few doors from Main Street in Barkly Street. Here you will be greeted by the warm smile of Kay Tyrie.

Kay is a real people-person and takes great pride is making people happy, in fact it makes her day, “I love seeing the confidence it brings when customers know they look good in their new purchase,” says Kay. “Having people return to tell us that they were stopped in the street and asked where they got their spectacles from makes my heart soar.”

She believes eyewear is the most important accessory one can wear. “Even more important than a new handbag or pair of shoes, since the eyes are the first point of contact we make. We don't all wear the same clothes, so why wear the same spectacles?” Main Street Eyecare’s motto has always been ‘Eyewear as individual as you are’.

Kay started in the optical industry in the UK during the 1970s after an optometrist friend offered her a job and trained her. Kay has owned Main Street Eyecare for 23 years and worked there personally for more than 11 years.

Offering personalised customer service is what drives Kay. “I love the interaction with each customer and finding the right

frame just for them, matching colour, style and shape to their own look and personality. We strive for customers to have an experience, feeling special and part of the family, rather than simply making a purchase, and I love it when someone drops in just for a chat and to share their day.”

MAIN STREET EYECARE

A: Shop 7/68 Barkly St, Mornington (pop-up shop)

T: 5975 3235

FB: mainstreeteyecare3931

INSTA: mainstreeteyecare

Celebrating local women who are leaders in business and community

Our female staff are simply sensational

At Getaway Property Management, we are truly fortunate to have such dedicated and hardworking women as part of our team, and their contributions are invaluable. We are proud to recognise, appreciate and support their efforts as we strive to deliver amazing service to our clients.

Getaway Property Management is a premier holiday property management service operating across stunning destinations throughout Victoria. We specialise in the professional management of hotel and motel accommodation, private homes and apartments, and holiday park cabins. From leadership positions to the front lines of our operations, our female colleagues consistently demonstrate resilience, creativity and inspiration. They are committed to

providing a premium holiday rental experience for guests and a comprehensive holiday property management service for owners. Our team is available 24/7 to assist all our property owners and guests.

To all our hardworking female staff, thank you for all that you do every single day. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and your contributions are exceptional.

In celebration of International Women’s Day and Easter, Getaway Property Management would like to invite guests to enjoy our special offer: pay for two nights, stay for three nights.* Call us directly on 1300 131 129 to book an

amazing getaway at one of our beautiful Victorian holiday properties. This offer is available until August 30.

*Includes participating properties. Subject to terms & conditions. Does not include public holidays or long weekends.

GETAWAY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

A: 33/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington

T: 1300 131 129

W: www.getawaypm.com.au

FB: getawaypropertymanagment

INSTA: getawaypropertymanagement

HAPPY EASTER

SPECIAL FEATURE OVER THE FOLLOWING 7 PAGES

Easter and school holidays see the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston come alive with events for families, art buffs and lovers of festivals. There are also plenty of local activities for all to enjoy. Check out the following pages and our Arts section and enjoy your Easter holidays.

We are an organic artisan bakery dedicated to handcrafting sourdough bread. German flair with authentic pretzels, rye breads and cake.

HAPPY EASTER

SPECIAL FEATURE

Discover autumn adventures at Arthurs Seat Eagle

Embark on a journey of autumn discoveries at Arthurs Seat Eagle from March 29-April 14, where the best of the season is being celebrated with activities and experiences for the whole family.

Indulge in Easter delights with delectable eggs and café specials, adding a touch of sweetness to your autumn escapades. The unmissable Twilight Flights on Saturday, March 30, offer a breathtaking aerial view of the autumn landscape as the sun sets.

Understand more about the rich local Indigenous culture with free guided walks around the summit in collaboration with Living Culture. Gain insights into the land's history, stories and traditions from knowledgeable guides, adding depth to your autumn experience.

Every Saturday, immerse yourself in the melodies of live music sessions on the expansive outdoor deck. Each week will showcase a different talented Peninsula artist, creating a vibrant ambience amid the stunning autumn landscape.

For our young adventurers, join in the excitement of the special Arthurs Seat Eagle scavenger hunt. Kids can embark on an exhilarating quest, filling their booklets with stamps as they explore and discover hidden treasures along the way. With daily kids' craft sessions and story times, balloon artists and face painters, and opportunities to encounter Australia's native wildlife up close with free animal shows by Aussie Wildlife, there’s school holiday fun for everyone.

Experience the magic of autumn with Arthurs Seat Eagle – every bit special. For the full schedule, go to www.aseagle.com.au

ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE

A: 795 Arthurs Seat Rd, Arthurs Seat

T: 5987 0600

W: www.aseagle.com.au

FB: Arthurs Seat Eagle

INSTA: arthursseateagle

HAPPY EASTER SPECIAL FEATURE

Luxurious beachside accommodation that’s close to it all

The Boathouse Resort Studio and Suites is the perfect base for your Mornington Peninsula beachside getaway.

Boutique accommodation in the heart of Blairgowrie, directly opposite the beach and marina, a short walk to cafes and shops and 5-minute drive to Sorrento and Searoad Ferries.

Perfect for a romantic getaway, family holiday or business trip. Our Best Price Guarantee assures you receive the best rates when you book directly with us!

2871 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie

P: 5988 8088 | www.boathouseresort.com.au

Located in an unbeatable position directly opposite Blairgowrie Beach, the yacht club and marina and only minutes’ walk from the Blairgowrie shopping strip, the Boathouse Resort is close to hot springs, dolphin swims, surf beaches, golf courses, fishing charters, art galleries, shopping villages, markets, wineries, breweries, restaurants, bars, underwater discoveries, national parks and coastal scenery – the list of attractions within easy reach is truly endless.

There are 20 modern climate-controlled suites and studios all featuring luxurious king-size beds, LCD TVs with Blu-ray DVD players, electric blankets, kitchenettes, and modern bathrooms. Our garden and spa studios offer cooking facilities and a private courtyard or balcony. We also have a two-bedroom self-contained apartment, making the Boathouse Resort perfect for a romantic getaway, family holiday, business trip or special occasion.

Enjoy your stay without having to leave the resort complex, thanks to the solarheated in-ground swimming pool, barbecue area, free Wi-Fi, free off-street parking for one vehicle a room, and an award-winning restaurant just a few steps from your room.

Call us for the best prices and exclusive offers on 5988 8088 or book via our website at www.boathouseresort.com.au

BOATHOUSE RESORT STUDIO AND SUITES

A: 2871 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie

T: 5988 8088

W: www.boathouseresort.com.au

FB: boathouseblairgowrie

INSTA: boathouseblairgowrie

Mediterranean delights in the heart of Mornington

When hunger strikes this Easter, there’s only one place to be: Bistro

One in Mornington.

Bistro One offers diners a taste of the Mediterranean. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff are friendly and professional. You’re greeted with a smile and genuinely looked after, and the food is made with love by chefs who are passionate and committed to their craft.

The menu is constantly evolving and dedicated to delivering flavours old and new, showcasing a wide variety of delectable dishes inspired by the rich cuisines of Greece, Italy, Spain and beyond. Most of the produce is sourced from farms and businesses in the Peninsula region, so you know it’s going to be top-quality and delicious.

Nestled in the heart of this vibrant seaside town, Bistro One offers a refreshing escape from mundane eateries with its modern and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the tantalising scent of authentic Mediterranean dishes pervade the restaurant.

So don’t be a bunny; head to Bistro One.

BISTRO ONE

A: 4/786 Esplanade, Mornington

T: 5929 7326

W: www.bistroone.com.au

INSTA: bistroone.mornington

Easter art show a sensory feast

The Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Easter Art Show has been a highlight on the community calendar since it began in 2010, and this year’s 14th show from March 29-April 1 is shaping up to be another beauty.

A fundraiser for the BYS rescue boat fleet, which is used to support junior, community and disabled sailing programs, the show’s feature artists this year are Janis Taber and Suzanne Oppy, who will join new and returning artists including indoor and outdoor sculptors.

Janis began painting in acrylics 12 years ago and discovered inks with their vibrancy and endless possibilities, while

Suzanne emerged as a photographer during the 2021 COVID lockdowns. Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including People’s Choice. The show opens at 6.30pm on Friday, March 29, and tickets are available at www.trybooking.com/COCNA. It continues on Saturday and Sunday, March 30-31, from 10am-5pm, and Monday, April 1, from 10am-2pm. Tickets are $5 at the door. Visitors are welcome to stay on at the yacht club and enjoy the BYS bistro and deck with stunning views of the bay, or just relax on the lawn or beach.

Supported by Belle Property, Blairgowrie, the show is at 2900 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie. For more information, go to Facebook @ byseasterartshow or Instagram @bys. easterartshow

TAKE A DRIVE TO RED HILL

SPECIAL FEATURE OVER THE FOLLOWING 3 PAGES

Here’s the secret: there’s an enchanted place where beauty and quality of produce reside, cellar doors creak and speak and breweries bubble. Take a ride from Port Phillip through the Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland to Red Hill.

This is a region where the world stands still as the trees bend and gather and the orchards bear the fruit of generations and newfound footings. Artisanal produce is grown in the rich soil and crafted, prepared and offered with artistic sensibilities to worldweary travellers who have finally found the place to rest in the best accommodation available. And the wine and cider flows. And the sustainable seasonal produce grows.

Here art surrounds you. Take a journey along the winding road from eatery to winery to gallery to farm and indulge in the knowledge that great things come to those who are patient. Indulge. Enjoy. Sense. You have arrived.

lancemore.com.au/lindenderry

Blue Moon shines a light on Peninsula artists

Emerging and established Mornington Peninsula artists have a new space in which to display their works after the opening of the Blue Moon Artist Collective last January. The temporary space on the former site of the Blue Moon hardware shop in Red Hill South will host a revolving collection that includes paintings, photography, prints, sculpture, pottery, furniture design, jewellery, and illustrations.

The artists include painters Margaret Amond, Mary Schepisi, Charlie and Gee (Gerald) Ryan, Joshua Searle and Michael Leeworthy; photographers Elizabeth Clancy, Oliver Altermatt and Philip Robertson; and sculptors Jean Sheridan, Amy Leeworthy, Amber Skehan, Emma Cleine, Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Mark Richardson.

The premises have been provided rent-free by owners the Burgess family, with the rest of the project being funded through the Cocoon Projects from Blue Moon’s director and fellow artist Charlie Ryan. The Blue Moon has also been supported by Frogs Pond Vineyard, Cellar & Pantry Red Hill, The Epicurean, Red Hill Brewery, Burnley Brewing, Three Bays Water, and Five Creative.

The space is managed by volunteers and has no formal gallery commission, but most of the artists have chosen to donate 20 per cent from the sale of their works to community groups or not-for-profits, including the Red Hill CFA, Red Hill Consolidated Primary School, and Save Westernport.

The Blue Moon Artist Collective is open from 10am-4pm daily at 169 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South. For more information, go to www.bluemooncollective.au or follow the collective on Instagram @bluemoonartistcollective

Blue Moon director Charlie Ryan speaks at the opening of the artist collective in January

Red Hill CFA’s David Breadmore addresses guests at the opening

arts events leisure

Geoff’s long journey to build a healthier Peninsula

A cancer diagnosis is devastating enough, but imagine being told the cancer you have is terminal. For Mount Eliza resident Geoff Nyssen, being diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2014 at age 40 left his friends and young family reeling.

Fast-forward to 2024, and Geoff has just returned from Seattle where he received the life-extending Car T Cell therapy. When Geoff was heading to the US last November his cancer was out of control. However, with this therapy the cancer is now in complete remission, and Geoff, his family and friends are all over the moon.

“I am so thankful to everyone who has helped me become cancer-free,” Geoff said. “I am not out of the woods because it can come back, but for now I can rest easy knowing that I have more time.”

Now he’s back in Australia, Geoff will turn his attention to delivering the eighth MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival, to

be held on Sunday, March 17, at Mount Eliza Regional Park. It includes 4km, 8km and 16km runs, the very popular 4km All Paws Walk, and a kids’ sprint for the younger ones. There will be community and business exhibitors, quality food and beverage vendors, family-friendly activities and challenges, prizes and giveaways, and a silent auction. Register at www.mymounteliza.org.au

Give seashells, not eggshells this Easter

It would be easy to fall back on the traditional chocolate Easter gifts for your friends or loved ones this year, but why not think outside the box and surprise them with a magnificent artwork creation from She Shell Art.

Mount Martha artist Miffy Pittaway has 15 limited-edition artworks on display exclusively at Mark and Cherie Poulter’s delightful Veraison Restaurant at 1889 Point Nepean Rd, Tootgarook. All have been discounted between $70-$105 –including this driftwood shark, which is now just $380 – and all are meticulously designed and crafted by Miffy from the shells she has been collecting since she was seven years old from dead

marine animals that are neither critically endangered, threatened nor exotic.

So rather than eggshells this year, give seashells. Not only will you be supporting a Peninsula artist, you’ll be giving your loved ones something that’s totally unique, will enrich their living space and will provide them with joy for years. Not only that, Miffy’s artworks are guaranteed calorie-free.

Have a happy and healthy Easter with a seaside-inspired work of art from She Shell Art.

SHE SHELL ART

M: 0400 178 635

E: miffypittaway@live.com.au

W: sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites. com

FB: Miffyshells

INSTA: sheshellartbymiffy

Beachfront dining at its ferry best

Embark on an exquisite dining adventure with Sail to Lunch at Searoad Ferries. For only $69, Mornington Peninsula residents and visitors alike can indulge in a unique dining experience that combines a scenic bay sail with a gourmet meal.

Your adventure starts with a comfortable ferry ride offering stunning views and a selection of Peninsula beverages to purchase. On arrival at Queenscliff you're welcomed into the architecturally acclaimed terminal, leading to the beachfront restaurant Tarra Queenscliff.

Here you’ll experience dining redefined with floorto-ceiling windows that immerse you in a beachside ambience.

Savour a two-course lunch crafted by the renowned executive chef Michael Demagistris, whose "simple things done extraordinarily well" philosophy shines in such dishes as duck raviolo, house-cured charcuterie, or beautifully presented scallops. Complement your meal with a house wine or beer, enhancing the flavours and the panoramic seaside views.

Conclude this memorable experience with a serene ferry ride back to Sorrento, making Sail to Lunch an

unparalleled blend of culinary delight and scenic beauty.

The Sail to Lunch package costs $69 and includes a return foot passenger ticket, a two-course lunch and a glass of wine or beer at Tarra Queenscliff. To book, visit www.searoad.com.au/Sail-to-Lunch

SEAROAD FERRIES

T: 5257 4500

W: www.searoad.com.au

FB: searoadferries

INSTA: searoadferries

Matt’s metal marvels

A resident of the Mornington Peninsula his entire life, Matt Drysdale wears many hats: family man, runner, surfer who wants to be on his board more often, and self-taught artist with a knack for transforming discarded metals into ocean and nature-inspired treasures. With roots in Rosebud, and having lived in Mornington and Mount Martha for the past 20 years, Matt's journey as a sculptor began more than two decades ago.

Fuelled by his dad's encouragement and a touch of curiosity, Matt was armed with little more than the welding skills he possessed from his job as a refrigeration mechanic, and a heap of scrap copper. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, he created a simple copper water feature that is still going strong today. Three months later he had artworks in a gallery and his first exhibition at Oak Hill Gallery soon after.

In the years since, he’s crafted a vast

array of pieces that pay homage to his love of the sea and nature, infusing each creation with quirky charm and a whole lot of coastal vibes. A dedication to sustainability is evident in his choice of materials; he and his family members scour op shops and scrapyards for the perfect pieces to breathe new life into. Though he's encountered his fair share of challenges – including unexpected explosions and mishaps with sealed pipes – Matt's passion for his craft remains unshakeable.

He finds solace and pleasure in his art, whether he's sculpting whimsical cephalopods, an echidna, a bunch of copper roses, or a majestic boat, and simply hopes to spread joy. His upcoming collaboration with Indigenous artist and family friend Holly Ryan promises exciting new work on the horizon.

For those itching to dive into the world of eco-friendly art, his advice is delivered

The 2024 Frankston Art Show is to be held over Easter 2024 and will be both a Physical and Virtual Show, showcasing the best of local and regional artwork.

Held at the Seaford Community Centre, Station Street, Seaford; the Show commences with a fabulous Gala night on Thursday 28 March 2024 with exclusive art offered for auction. The Physical Show will remain open over Easter until Monday 1 April, the Virtual Show until Sunday 14 April.

Go to www.frankstonrotaryartshow.com.au

with his trademark dry humour: “Have a go and don’t take yourself too seriously. Half the fun is in sourcing your materials. Wear your safety glasses, and don’t touch it if it’s hot!”

For a peek into Matt’s whimsical world, follow him on Facebook and Instagram @mattdrysdaleartist

SARAH HALFPENNY

Next-gen acrobatics

thrill Frankston

Circus meets contemporary dance when the internationally acclaimed Circa returns to the Frankston Arts Centre in April. After its performance of Humans in Frankston back in 2018, Circa’s next chapter – titled Humans 2.0 – is set to thrill audiences again with a symphony of acrobatics, sound and light.

Using their own bodies as gymnastic apparatus, the Circa ensemble perform an immensely skilful and physical show about trust and control. From threestorey human towers to handstands on another person’s head and bodies flying across the stage, the performers’ skills are immense.

Humans 2.0 follows 10 individuals as they move in harmony with each other before their rhythms shift and physical limits are pushed to the extreme as they

grapple with the struggle to find balance amid constant uncertainty.

Through choreography that blends movement, dance, theatre and circus, Humans 2.0 explores not what humans are but how we are: how we connect, attract, repel and attach, how we commune and how we isolate. Can we ever find a perfect equilibrium, or is adapting to constant change the only way forward?

With pulsing music by composer Ori Lichtik, Paul Jackson’s dramatic lighting, and direction by circus visionary Yaron Lifschitz, Humans 2.0 is a must-see. Experience the incredible talents of Circa at Frankston Arts Centre on Thursday, April 18, at 7.30pm. Tickets: $28-$62. Bookings: 9784 1060 or thefac. com.au

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE

A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston

T: 9784 1060

W: www.thefac.com.au

FB: FrankstonArtsCentre

INSTA: the_fac

Humans 2.0 by Circa.

Photo: Pedro Greig

Artist Matt Drysdale displays bunches of his copper roses

Three more great reasons to visit Everywhen

Three exhibitions are featuring at Everywhen Art this month, including the first solo exhibition by Arnhem Land bark painter Gurrundul Marawili on March 8.

Gurrundul has been painting for some 16 years. In soft hues, her detailed bark paintings feature the ancestral creation stingray figure and the stingray's sites near her large homeland settlement of Yilpara at Blue Mud Bay.

However, of equal importance to this talented artist is her work as an ecologist and ranger. Her ecology work has fully preoccupied her for long stretches, thus interrupting her painting career, while the ongoing connection to Country strongly informs her art practice.

In other gallery rooms there’s a wideranging exhibition featuring vibrant colours of First Nations art from around Australia.

On Easter Saturday, gallery directors Susan and Emily McCulloch Childs launch an Autumn Salon exhibition with a unique Art Parade presentation. "We group the works into regions or other themes and provide informative commentary on up to 40 works," Susan said.

Gurrundul Marawili and Colours of Country run until March 25 after an opening reception on Saturday, March 9, from 2-4pm. The Autumn Salon Art Parade launch is on Saturday, March 30, at 2pm. Seating is limited and bookings are essential at everywhenart.eventbrite.com

EVERYWHEN ART

A: Whistlewood, 642 Tucks Rd, Shoreham

T: 5931 0318

W: www.everywhenart.com.au

E: info at Everywhen Art

Open: Thursday-Monday

Art Parade at Whistlewood.

Charity fair is one for the books

If you’re running short on reading material, you’re in for a real treat: the Mornington Lions are holding their annual charity book fair at The Studio on April 6-7.

From a tentative beginning in 2018, the fair has grown and flourished into an event not to be missed. Generous donations of pre-loved books, along with CDs, DVDs and puzzles, means there’s something for everyone. The selling price remains at $2 each unless otherwise marked, with wideranging categories including fiction and children’s books.

All proceeds from the gold coin entry go to the Bays Hospital.

Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, the Mornington Lions welcome you to come along on one or both days and browse the incredible selection.

Vintage, classic and modern cars on show

The Flinders Motoring Heritage is an annual event held on Easter Sunday that features a stunning display of vintage, classic and modern cars. Unlike a lot of other classic car events, the Flinders Motoring Heritage has three expert judges who award various prizes to the best cars in those categories.

The popular event is a fundraiser managed by the Lions Club of Flinders District. This year it is supporting the Southern Peninsula Community Support Inc. organisation to buy a vehicle to tow the SPLaSH shower and laundry van. When not towing the van, the vehicle will also be used to pick up food from various charitable food recovery program warehouses and distribution centres and transport essential personal care products and food to the needy.

Currently the SPCSIC has a loan vehicle from Mornington Mazda, but the dealership has offered to provide the organisation with a new Mazda ute with a canopy, tow bar and all fittings, including electronic braking. All money raised at the fundraiser will go towards the purchase of this vehicle.

If you would like to show a car in the Flinders Motoring Heritage, entries are only $25, and admission on the day is just $5. Donations are also most welcome.

David Phillips with his Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, which won Best in Show at last year’s Flinders Motoring Heritage.

Hop into Easter with author’s new book

When most Rosebud residents hear the name D’Alia, fruit and vegies immediately spring to mind; soon the name will conjure images of bees and bunnies too. Toni D’Alia, whose family own and operate D’Alia’s Fresh Produce in Rosebud, is currently enjoying success as the author of the children’s book Bees Are Our Friends. Now – just in time for Easter – she releases another beautiful publication, The Easter Bunny Hop.

After several years of teaching in primary schools, Toni is currently dedicated to writing full-time, creating stories to entertain young readers as her audience grows across the globe. Bees Are Our Friends, an enchanting picture book published in 2022 by Bright Light and illustrated by Alice Lindstrom, is the first in a series called Our Friends in the Garden; the next instalment is scheduled for launch this year. The book appeals to readers all over the world and has already been translated into Korean and published in the US.

Although she’s no longer teaching, Toni enjoys visiting kindergartens and schools to hold author talks and writing workshops. It always makes her happy to see young people reading and being inspired to dive into their own writing projects, and she’s thrilled when children connect with her stories.

Toni recalls her own passion for reading as a child, when many hours were spent in both her school and public libraries. A love of children’s books motivated her to learn and hone the skills required for publishing in the genre. She’s now enjoying the fruits of her labour as her second picture book hits the shelves.

The idea for The Easter Bunny Hop came to Toni last Easter, inspired by events in her life at the time. The Easter Bunny Hop is gorgeously illustrated by Mimi Purnell and published by Little Hare Books. This rhyming picture book includes a bonus craft activity for children to make their own bunny ears. What fun!

Bound to have young readers dancing with glee, The Easter Bunny Hop is the perfect gift this season. It’s available at various Peninsula bookshops and online.

DANIELLE DAVEY

Pavs take the cake at Red Hill Show

The Red Hill Show will have a slightly different look when it returns to the Red Hill Showgrounds for the 96th time on Saturday, March 9. With cost of living pressures rising, organisers have replaced the rich fruit cake competition with the “more accessible” undressed pavlova competition.

“Dried fruit, butter and energy have all shot up,” said executive officer Bec Davis. “We were watching our fruit cake entries dwindle over the years (so) we made the hard decision to replace the comp with a pav, which costs a third of the price to make.”

The CWA’s Noela MacLeod AO will judge the pavlovas from 10am at the Mornington Peninsula Producers’ Paddock. Meanwhile, food writer Richard Cornish and Hastings state Labor MP Paul Mercurio will judge the

golden sausage competition, which carries a $500 cash prize – as does the best apple pie competition.

The family-friendly show has a host of tempting food and beverages for visitors, including barbecued sweet corn from Hawkes Farm, ciders from Mock, Harts Farm and Seven Oaks made from Peninsula apples, wines from Barmah Park and spirits from Bass & Flinders. Flinders Mussels will shed light on a life at sea raising amazing mussels, and the seaweed-growing team at Southern Seagreens in Flinders will give you a taste of their freshly harvested and dried kelp.

Marvel at the axemanship of the woodchop competitors as they race to cut through great logs of solid hardwood. “We are lucky to have a competition this year, let alone play host to a Victorian championship,” Bec said. The men and women of the Red Hill Football Club will put on an athletic competition that includes some old-time classics such as the egg and spoon race, tug of war and gumboot throw, which are open to all, and you and your best

friend can enter the novelty dog show, with categories including best dressed dog, dog most like its owner, and happiest dog.

The sheep show will feature Binbarra Farm’s cute Valais Blacknose and English Leicester breeds, and John Pedderson will show his Luxton Blacks. The Willum Warrain Bush Nursery will showcase a range of indigenous plants from the Peninsula, the environment zone will display alternative energy sources such as solar power as well as electric vehicles and farm equipment, and Monash Uni will have its new solarpowered generator on show. There will also be interactive stalls to educate and engage. With the cattle, sheep and poultry judging, the alpacas stand, and the heritage sheds filled with fruit, vegetables, scones, cakes, artwork, cut flowers and other handicraft all vying for a coveted blue ribbon, there really is something for everyone at the Red Hill Show. It’s open from 8am-4pm at 184 Arthurs Seat Rd. For more details, phone Bec on 0432 434 255.

Sail With Me

Coastal landscapes from Flinders to Sorrento

Created by esteemed local painter

Sail With Me continues Stewart’s forty year love affair with the Mornington Peninsula and investigates and presents the concept of continual flow; the landscape of living geography, terrain and saltwater surrounds. This exhibition of over 45 works includes one ten-piece painting and multiple diptychs.

“My artist in residency in 2023 at Police Point near the Point Nepean National Park, gave me the beginnings of really understanding this area. The paintings in this show are from both land and water perspectives, which is unique and exciting”, says Stewart.

Stewart Westle

This exhibition opens on Saturday 16th March and runs to Thursday 28th March.

The exhibition can be viewed 11am to 4pm Tuesday to Sunday. Stewart will be holding floor talks on the opening weekend from 2pm Saturday and Sunday.

For enquiries or to request a Preview Catalogue please contact; Ellie Bracci ellie@manyunggallery.com.au 0413 468 917

Sharyn Wemyss-Smith sharyn@manyunggallery.com.au 0419 595 222

Manyung Gallery Art & Design Unit 6 , 35 Progress St, Mornington

What’s On across the Peninsula and Frankston

SATURDAY MARCH 2 - MARCH 16

Journey to the Wimmera: EXHIBITION OPENING

Saturday March 2 & Sunday March 3; 11am-3pm; Manyung Gallery Mount Eliza, 54 Mt Eliza Way, Mount Eliza; Greg Mallyon - Landscapes of Western Victoria. Exhibition runs until March 16; www.manyunggallery.com.au

SATURDAY MARCH 2

The Pig & Whistle Presents International Women’s Day Festival: 10am-5pm, 365 Purves Rd, Main Ridge; Live music, entertainment, market stalls and motivational speakers. A range of activities exploring arts and crafts, well-being, culture, education and the environment.. There will be plenty of fun for the kids as well. $10-$25. Tickets at www.thepigandwhistle.com.au

SATURDAY MARCH 2

Stella Short Film Festival: McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery, 390 McClelland Dr, Langwarrin; a night of cinematic magic under the stars, showcasing 12 of the best Australian short films. General admission or limited VIP tickets are available www.stellarshortfilmfestival.com.au

WEDNESDAY MARCH 6

WomenConnect Frankston’s International Women’s Day lunch: 11.30am-2.30pm, Frankston RSL, 183 Cranbourne Rd, Frankston; delicious lunch with guest speaker Professor Suzanne Nielsen. Men and women are welcome to attend the lunch, but tickets are selling fast. To secure yours, email womenconnect2018@gmail.com

SATURDAY MARCH 9

Spanish Cooking Class: 11am-4pm. Would you like to learn to cook delicious Spanish dishes while you practice Spanish? Then this workshop is for you. Bookings essential. Call Diana 0401 332 230

SATURDAY MARCH 9

Professor Suzanne Nielsen

Deputy Director Monash Addition Research

Dromana Food & Drink Fair: Noon-10pm, Dromana Pier Foreshore; Experience delicious Mornington Peninsula produce from local vendors.

Wednesday 6th March 2024, 11:30am - 2:30pm Frankston RSL, 183 Cranbourne Rd, Frankston

TICKETS $69

($650 TABLE of 10)

Book on Facebook: WomenConnect Frankston

Includes: Glass of wine on arrival, 2 course meal plus tea/coffee

LIMITED SEATS - womenconnect2018@gmail.com

OR Michelle 0405 512 999

SUNDAY MARCH 10

Tyabb Airshow: Gates open 8:30am with flying displays from 10am. An unmissable opportunity to experience Tyabb’s world class range of aircraft. An incredible array of unique and historic aircraft, ranging from restored World War II fighters, Cold War Jets as well as current RAAF hardware. Tickets: https://bit.ly/49idcYz

SATURDAY MARCH 16

Food Yard Street Food Night Market: 5-8pm, 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington; street food and drink trucks, free entry with onsite parking, great night out for family and friends; https://bit.ly/41nLoP9

*No refunds

SATURDAY

Sat 16th & Sun 17th March, 10am - 4pm

5th Annual Talking Hens

Emu Plains Market:

9am-2pm, Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring; More than just a market the EPM is a monthly celebration of art, food, design and culture in the heart of the seaside town of Balnarring. Explore over 200 incredible small businesses under the ancient boughs of the stringy bark gums. Sorry, no dogs. $5 parking to contribute to community projects of WP Rotary + EP reserve.

www.emuplainsmarket.com.au

SATURDAY MARCH 16 - MARCH 28

Sail With Me: EXHIBITION OPENING

Saturday March 16; 11am-3pm; Manyung Art & Design, 6/35 Progress Street, Mornington; Stewart Westle - Coastal Landscapes from Flinders to Sorrento. Exhibition runs until March 28; www.manyunggallery.com.au

SATURDAY MARCH 23

Little Beauty Market: 9am-2pm, Beauty Park, Frankston; OUR LAST LBM OF THE SEASON!! DON’T MISS IT! Filled to the brim with awesomeness Little Beauty features over 100 of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos. Dogs welcome! www.littlebeautymarket.com.au

THURSDAY MARCH 28MONDAY APRIL 1

2024 Frankston Art Show: Gala night on Thursday 28 March, remaining open over Easter until Monday 1 April, Seaford Community Centre, Station Street, Seaford; showcasing the best of local and regional artwork. Fabulous Gala night with exclusive art offered for auction. Show remaining open over Easter, Virtual Show until Sunday 14 April. Go to https://bit.ly/3O4iIoT

SATURDAY MARCH 29 – APRIL 1

Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Easter Art Show 2024: Opening Night Function Friday March 29; tickets available thru Trybooking at https://www.trybooking.com/COCNA General admission Saturday March 30 & Sunday March 31; 10am-5pm and Monday April 1; 10am-2pm. General admission $5.00 https://www.facebook.com/ byseasterartshow; https://bit.ly/49D3jEy

SATURDAY MARCH 30

The 5ifth Market: 10am-2pm, Chelsea Bicentennial Park, Scotch Pde, Chelsea; stroll, graze, buy and play at more than 120 makers’ and street food stalls, along with live acoustic music; staged on the last Saturday of the month during market season at the family-friendly Bicentennial Park in Chelsea. STROLL.GRAZE.BUY.PLAY

https://bit.ly/3RugQbA

MONDAY APRIL 1 (EASTER MONDAY)

Mt Martha South Beach Market: 10am-2pm, Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha. Makers, creators, foodies and shakers are all at this spectacular beachside street food and handmade makers’ market with 60 stalls. Overlooking Port Philip, this is a must-go-to market and runs on major public holidays over the year.

MAKERS.CREATORS.FOODIES.SHAKERS

https://bit.ly/3Pud4wd

the business

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 Peninsulabased 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

Fusion addresses committee on homeless

In February the Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula held its first members’ breakfast of the year, where we heard from Fusion Mornington Peninsula about the critical work they're doing on the frontline in youth homelessness outreach right here in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.

Both Gemma and Caitlin from Fusion gave passionate speeches about the critical need in our community to support young people in getting a roof over their heads, and how vital that work is right here on the Mornington Peninsula. It is hard to imagine our community without Fusion. The work Fusion does is invaluable, and what they do every day matters.

Committee members also heard from Labor candidate Jodie Belyea and Liberal candidate Nathan Conroy ahead of the Dunkley by-election, which will be held on Saturday, March 2. Good luck to both candidates.

Thank you to all of our members for attending in such large numbers to kick things off for us this year, and thank you to Commonfolk Mornington for hosting us. For more information about what the committee is doing this year, please visit www. cfmp.org.au

JOSH SINCLAIR – CEO, Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula COMMITTEE FOR FRANKSTON & MORNINGTON PENINSULA

T: 0477 309 313

W: www.cfmp.org.au

FB: CommitteeFMP

Podcast gives you the tools to build your wealth

You’re invited to tune in to the latest small business and wealthbuilding podcast, The Accountant That Builds, focused on providing actionable advice to empower individuals and business owners to build lives and businesses they really love.

The podcast is born and bred by Shannon Smit, Peninsula business owner and entrepreneur. As founding director of Smart Business Solutions, the Mornington Peninsula’s most awarded accounting and financial advisory firm, Shannon had a vision from the beginning. With a career spanning global firms in New York, Prague, Amsterdam and Melbourne, Shannon chose to forgo a partner position at a Big 4 firm in New York in favour of setting up a globally minded, local approach firm offering strategic tax, business and financial advisory in her local region. She wanted to give local business owners access to an adviser with extensive global expertise without having to travel to the city.

Seventeen years on, and she’s got stories to tell about business and wealth-building.

“I really wanted to start this podcast for a few reasons, mostly since being in business can be challenging and you often have to find your own way,” Shannon said. “As a small business adviser, I have seen and heard so many scenarios and stories that I know will resonate with others, so I hope you’ll follow along on this journey.”

Are you ready to build your business and your wealth? Tune in to The Accountant That Builds, available right now in Spotify and Apple podcasts, or listen online at www.smartbusinesssolutions.com.au/podcast

SMART BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

A: Level 1, 328 Main St, Mornington

T: 5911 7000

W: www.smartbusinesssolutions.com.au/podcast

FB: SMART.SBS

INSTA: SMART_SBS

fashion

Let’s get creative to end period shame

Peninsula schools and community groups are being encouraged to help end period shame by taking part in Share the Dignity’s Creating Period Pride competition. The winner will receive $5000 for their school or group, and there are also prizes for the second and third placegetters and five category winners.

The impetus for the competition came after the charity’s Bloody Big Survey in 2021 found 41 per cent of people were embarrassed to talk about their periods and one in five had experienced period poverty – being unable to afford to buy period products. “To end period poverty we must also remove the shame and stigma around periods,” said founder and managing director Rochelle Courtenay. “With this competition I am hopeful our future leaders can help us move forward into a period-positive future.

“Period education is incredibly important not just for kids who get their period but for young boys as well. They grow up to be brothers, fathers, colleagues and friends, so I encourage schools and community groups to get all your kids involved to be part of the conversation. The entries in the first two years have blown me away. We’ve had original songs, murals, TikTok videos, poetry, major artwork and more, so I cannot wait to see what these creative minds come up with in our third year.”

Creating Period Pride was developed to give schools and community groups the tools to start having conversations with their students about periods and encourage them to create some content that would aid in promoting period pride. Melbourne Year 11 student Lucy Diggerson, who won last year’s competition with her original song I’m Not the Only Girl, said it helped start some meaningful conversations around periods.

“For me as an older student, it has been so rewarding to see how this initiative has impacted the younger girls at my school,” Lucy said. “The competition has reassured and readied those girls who are still new to their periods that it's nothing to be ashamed of and given the older girls the platform to act as role models to them, instilling period pride in everyone.”

You can register for the competition at www.sharethedignity.org.au/end-periodpoverty/creating-period-pride; the first 100 registrations will receive a free Creating Period Pride toolkit that includes Share the Dignity’s menstruation-specific education program and a variety of period products. Entries close at midnight on October 14 and can be sent to periodpride@sharethedignity.org.au

Walk, talk and celebrate our achievements as women

If you want to be a part of history, you’d better be quick: the inaugural International Women’s Day Walk For Women is on Saturday, March 16, and entries are limited. An initiative of the Women’s Spirit Project, Walk For Women takes place from 8.45am12.30pm along the stunning Port Phillip waterfront to recognise, celebrate and empower women in our community.

The 5-7km scenic course makes the most of the coast as it follows the beach to an exhilarating finish at Frankston Yacht Club and the iconic backdrop of Frankston Jetty. Challenge yourself as you walk along the water to reach your destination. If the beach is not for you, make use of the alternative coastal trail that takes you through native bushland. This is your journey, so you can choose to weave in and out while being cheered on by Team Teal.

The finishers’ hub at Frankston Yacht Club will be filled with celebration, inspiration and refreshments. Enjoy

a light and healthy locally sourced brunch and a big dose of inspiration from the event’s keynote speakers.

This is your opportunity to help shape the future of women in our community and aid the Women’s Spirit Project in meeting the exponential growth in demand for its programs. With your support it can continue to inspire and empower more women experiencing disadvantage across our region. Your support will directly fund programs that our community desperately needs. It also provides the rare opportunity to seed fund a new walk for Victoria, designed to celebrate women and advance gender equity.

The International Women’s Day Walk For Women is the perfect opportunity to step outside and celebrate the incredible women in our community. Book at https:// events.humanitix.com/ walk-for-women-inauguralinternational-women-s-daywalk or use the QR code on this page, and find out more about the Women’s Spirit Project at www. womensspiritproject.org

It’s never too late to get your smile straight

Dr Peter Scott and Dr Peter Tran are specialist orthodontists who are only too happy to answer any questions you might have when it comes to your teeth.

Why choose a specialist?

An orthodontist is specifically trained and is the most qualified to diagnose, prevent and treat issues to do with the alignment of the teeth and jaws and ensure you, or your child, ends up with a smile you love and a bite and jaw that function properly.

When is the best time to see a specialist orthodontist?

Dr Scott and Dr Tran recommend

between the ages of seven and nine, because some children benefit greatly from early intervention. Wearing certain appliances may reduce a child’s time in braces later and may also make treatment more effective.

Am I too old to fix my teeth?

Many adults are now choosing to improve their smiles later in life. There is a range of aesthetic options available here to suit your lifestyle, including clear braces and aligners (Invisalign and Spark).

DR PETER SCOTT & ASSOCIATES

A: 13 Beach St, Frankston

T: 9783 4511

W: www.drpeterscottorthodontist.com.

au

FB: drpeterscottorthodontist

For more than 40 years, the Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic team has cared for generations of families, working with you to maintain your oral health.

Our teeth are constantly on display whether you’re talking, smiling, eating, or laughing. Regular dentist check-ups are crucial in keeping your whole mouth healthy. Love Your Teeth!

Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic welcomes Dr Emma Pressley. Originally from York in the UK, Emma trained as a dentist at Newcastle Upon Tyne University and graduated in 2020. Since then, Emma has worked in a mixed of NHS and private dental practices providing routine dental treatment to many patients. Emma recently relocated to Melbourne with her husband. Emma enjoys all aspects of dentistry and continues to widen her knowledge through several post-graduate courses.

Emma enjoys building good relationships with her patients and strives to make them feel relaxed and happy in her care. Outside of dentistry, Emma enjoys reading, going to the gym and playing classical piano.

Aries: The weeks before your birthday offer a rare opportunity to slow down. This is your time to reassess the previous year, take stock of personal attributes and achievements and make some birthday resolutions. As the Sun moves into Aries on March 20, life once again picks up speed.

Taurus: Your social life picks up in March as planets line up in the communal sector of your Solar Chart. Changes may be afoot in your clubs, groups and friendship circles. Communications are unclear, causing problems. You need all of your innate Taurus patience to persist in clearing up misunderstandings.

Gemini: This month sees you juggling several tasks at work. You need to focus on one while keeping track of others, and decisions need to be made as you switch back and forth. You may face a choice about work. It’s time to see the bigger picture before taking any firm action.

Stephanie Johnson

Cancer: Legal matters are front and centre in March. This could be as simple as needing to sign off on a contract, and as complicated as settlements and disputes with personal and business partners. The key is to remain calm –easier said than done under March’s planetary line-up.

Leo: Activities with a common purpose feature in March. Anything that involves a joint decision or enterprise is highlighted, particularly one involving personal or business partnerships. As a Leo, you are a natural leader. The time has come to ensure that you are involving your nearest and dearest in important decisions.

Virgo: The health and wellbeing of yourself and a significant partner are highlighted. It’s time to make a commitment to ensuring that your work/ life balance is healthy. This means being serious about shaking any bad habits and replacing them with good ones. You need to adopt a daily practice to help you reset.

Libra: March is your month to reduce stress and improve your mood through fun-filled activities. Expressing yourself through artistic and creative activities is like a prescription for your mental health. The time is ripe for you to incorporate a hobby into your daily routine, either for personal pleasure or your working life.

Scorpio: Family history is the theme. This could be recent family sagas coming to light, or ancient history. Either way, it’s time to focus on the younger members of your clan, clearing the past so that they have a positive future. This is a pivotal moment in your own personal story.

Sagittarius: Family features during March. One family member could require extra attention as you travel for a special occasion, or a relative is visiting. It’s also possible that you plan home maintenance that you have been putting off for a while. The focus is your private life, ensuring that you have firm foundations.

Capricorn: March is a project planning month when you sit down with your various ideas and formulate a strategy. You have a positive mindset and can move forward with a responsible plan. This is your month to organise your thoughts. Diagrams, lists, graphs, sketches and the like can all prove helpful.

Aquarius: Do you play offence or defence when it comes to your finances? Offence is trying to boost your income. Defence is managing spending habits. This month sees you reassess your income, its flow in and out. You take stock and then decide on offence or defence, or both.

Pisces: The serious planet Saturn casts its shadow over your Zodiac Sign. This can be a positive influence, as it helps you analyse exactly what makes you happy and healthy. It’s an excellent time to set boundaries, employ self-discipline and build a firm personal foundation. Selfcriticism is to be avoided at all costs.

MAR 24

APR 28

MAY 26

MARKETS

9am - 1pm

4th Sunday of each month Cnr

www.mtelizafarmersmarket.com.au

We try to confirm all markets with organisers before publication. However, we are not responsible for late changes. for family and friends; 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington; 5-8pm

EVERY DAY

Dromana Indoor Market: 80+ indoor stalls & hairdresser; 110 Nepean Highway (down from Aldi); 10am-5pm

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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

SATURDAY MARCH 2

Preloved Clothing Market: 40 + Stalls offering something for everyone. $2 Entry Fee Cash or Card. New Peninsula Baptist Church, 370 Craigie Road, Mount Martha; 9.30am1pm

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

SUNDAY MARCH 3

Boneo Lions Club Sunday Market: First Sunday of month, Rosebud foreshore opp Fourth Ave; 7am-1pm

SATURDAY MARCH 9

Crib Point Community Market: indoor & outdoor stalls, Cribby Koala treasure hunt for kids; Crib Point Community House, 7 Park Rd; second Saturday of month, 9am-1pm

Rosebud Community School: 120+ stalls, handmade and new items, produce and plants, second Saturday of month, Nepean Highway (old carnival site on Rosebud foreshore opp 7-Eleven); 8am-1pm

SATURDAY MARCH 16

Boneo Community Market: third Saturday of the month, cnr Boneo and Limestone roads, 8am- noon

Emu Plains Market: More than just a market. Explore 240+ incredible small businesses; Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring; 9am-2pm

Food Yard Street Food Night Market:  Street food and drink trucks, free entry with onsite parking, great night out

SUNDAY MARCH 17

Mornington Racecourse Craft Market: 300+ stalls, festive atmosphere, delicious eats; Racecourse Rd, 9am-2pm

SATURDAY MARCH 23

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

Little Beauty Market: Filled to the brim with awesomeness Little Beauty features 120+ of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos. Dogs welcome; Beauty Park, Frankston; 9am-2pm

SUNDAY MARCH 24

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

SATURDAY MARCH 30

The 5ifth Market: stroll, graze, buy and play at more than 120 makers’ and street food stalls, along with live acoustic music; last Saturday of the month. Chelsea Bicentennial Park, Scotch Pde, Chelsea, 10am-2pm

MONDAY APRIL 1 (EASTER MONDAY)

Mt Martha South Beach Market: Spectacular beachside street food and handmade makers’ market with 60 stalls. Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha; 10am-2pm

To view more markets, scan QR code or go to our website

IF YOU RUN A MARKET you can be listed online for free, go to website www.mpmag.com.au or email bella@mpmag.com.au

Showcasing our wonderful growers and makers

Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, fresh food market springing to life on the fourth Sunday of every month. Celebrating our growers and makers, the market is in its 13th year and continues to bring the freshest produce and handmade goods to the community.

From farm-fresh herbs, seasonal fruit and veg to beautiful fresh eggs, jams, sauces, sausages, nuts, honey . . . the list goes on. Then there’s the ready-to-eat hot food such as freshly baked scones, homemade dim sims, bacon and egg rolls, doughnuts, fresh gourmet pies, and Turkish treats.

Our farmers and makers have a wealth of knowledge to share, so come and chat to them about their produce. We are proudly supported each month by Mount Eliza’s wonderful Rotary and Lions clubs, whose mouthwatering bacon and egg rolls raise money for those in in need.

Come and discover the wonderful vibrancy of Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market.

MOUNT ELIZA FARMERS’ MARKET

T: 0419 907 504

W: www.mtelizafarmersmarket.com.au

Vintage time on the Peninsula

Vintage is one of my favourite times of the year on the Mornington Peninsula, as it’s a hive of activity across the vineyards with grapes being picked and wineries crushing, pressing and fermenting them into this beautiful drop we call wine.

Pinot noir and chardonnay are the most prominent grape varieties grown on the Peninsula, with pinot noir on top of the podium as the most dominant grape; this is the third largest region in Australia for pinot.

The timing of vintages, or harvest once the grapes are ripe and ready to pick, can differ across the subregions of the Peninsula. Subregions are where the vines are located within the wine-growing region of the Peninsula. For example, the subregion known as the northern part of Peninsula – Moorooduc or Tuerong –can start picking earlier than the subregion of Red Hill/ Main Ridge.

Because of the Peninsula’s proximity to the coast, its southern location and being surrounded by Western Port and Port Phillip, it is classified as a ‘cool maritime climate’. This means there is little risk of frosts, and we benefit from the cooling influences generally created from prevailing wind north and east of Port Phillip or

from the south and east across Western Port/Bass Strait. This maritime influence does bring with it good – but hopefully not too much –spring rain and wind with a healthy dose of sunshine hours to help with ripening the grapes.

However, despite this lovely description of the climate, every year is different, hence the resulting vintages are too. This can be different crop sizes or yields being determined early by the weather in the primary stages of the vine’s ‘vintage’ year cycle and eventual grape development. So basically if you don’t get enough sunshine or little to no rain, yield size can be affected. This means when the vines eventually flower and develop into grapes, the fruit set as it’s called is reduced, resulting in lower yields or volume of fruit.

If we look at the 2023 vintage, it was a challenge for yields because we had some decent storms during the growing season at the back end of 2022 that may have damaged the vines. This was eerily similar to 2021, so really the past three vintages have produced low yields.

As a result of these smaller vintages and the actual volume of fruit finally processed to make the wine, prices can unfortunately be higher at the cellar door, wineries and even the retail stores. This does ultimately have a flow-on effect for small-volume vintages like we have seen to date. I should mention that the timing for picking was certainly more evident over the past three vintages. Normally you would see most producers start to pick in mid to late-February, but this was pushed back in some cases by two to three weeks as a result.

So what’s in store for the 2024 vintage? Things are looking positive with more settled weather, the vines’ ‘vintage’ cycle is a lot happier and the subsequent fruit set looks a lot more abundant than in previous years. The white nets you now see mostly scattered everywhere when you drive across the Peninsula were put on quite early – I hear as early as January for some vineyards when usually it’s around February. This is because the grapes have started to change colour, or veraison as it’s known (red wine grapes change to purple), so the nets are there to protect the shiny colourful berries from being eaten by birds.

All the signs are pointing to a positive, hopefully lovely generous vintage with plentiful yields. Time will tell how it all pans out, but the conversations I’ve had with colleagues out in the vines are very encouraging.

It’s an exciting and very busy time, and if you happen to visit one of the many cellar doors on the weekend you may well see vintage action in the winery next door. And if you’re lucky you might get to sample a few grapes and the juice while tasting.

Until next time, enjoy your wine journey.

Pinot by the pier for a perfect day out

We all love the allure of a Labour Day weekend spent enjoying beautiful Mornington Peninsula pinot by the bay. Peninsula Piers & Pinots returns to Flinders Pier this month with an impressive selection of 21 Peninsula wineries showing their pinot in all its forms.

Brought to you by Mornington Peninsula Wine, Peninsula Piers & Pinots is on Sunday, March 10, from noon-3pm. Food will be available from the region’s favourite food trucks, and music by Calmer Miles will add to the fabulous festive vibe. Participating wineries this year are Baillieu Vineyard, Barmah Park, Bittern Estate, Dexter Wines, Elgee Park Wines, Handpicked Wines, Kyberd Hills, Lancemore Lindenderry, Manton’s Creek, Montalto, Nazaaray Estate, Ocean Eight, Pier 10, Portsea Estate, Quealy, Rahona Valley, Rare Hare Wines, Red Hill Estate, Stonier, Tar & Roses, and Yal Yal Estate.

Tickets are $65 a person and include a complimentary Riedel tasting glass, tasting notes and all wine tastings. However, this popular event often sells out well in advance and there are only limited tickets available on the day, so make sure you get yours today at www.mpwine.com.au, by using the QR code on this page or searching for Peninsula Piers & Pinots via Eventbrite.

Sunday

Dromana’s best at food and drink fair

Dromana’s top food and drink producers will be on show this month at the first Dromana Food and Drink Fair.

Set in the picturesque Dromana Pier foreshore park, the fair will feature 25 food and alcohol stands serving lunch and dinner along with special drinks and snacks all afternoon. There will be a wet area for those wishing to sample the wonderful beverages being poured by Dromana beverage companies from the Dromana Industrial Estate run by the Dromana Habitat, and some of Melbourne’s favourite lounge DJs will be spinning great tunes throughout the day.

The Dromana Food and Drink Fair is on Saturday, March 9, from noon-10pm.

GETTING CONNECTED:

The Frankston Business Collective’s first CEO lunch for 2024 was held at Hotel Lona last month, providing an opportunity for senior business leaders to connect.

Frankston celebrates its top citizens

A volunteer committed to helping needy families, a former high school captain driving social change, and a group devoted to supporting the community have been named Frankston City’s 2024 Citizens of the Year.

Citizen of the Year Alistair Leaver has been instrumental in increasing Mums Supporting Families in Need’s volunteer network by 60 per cent. Alistair’s inclusive management style has also reduced the impact of social isolation for aged volunteers and those with a disability.

Young Citizen of the Year Kelly Gilbert was a Frankston High School captain last year and part of the student leadership council that was recognised as the Student Voice School of the Year. Kelly was invited to sing the Australian and New Zealand national anthems during Anzac Day services last year, has been an International Women’s Day guest speaker, led Anti-Bully Week at her school, and completed 3144 push-ups in 23 days to promote mental health and the Push for Better Foundation.

Named Community Group of the Year, the Rotary Club of Frankston has been supporting local, national and international projects for 74 years. Its volunteer members helped establish Frankston’s Joy of the Earth Community Garden; have raised money for such groups as Community Support Frankston, Frankston Winter Shelter and the Frankston SES; and ran the Seaford Farmers Market for more than 15 years as well as Easter Art Show and Rotary Wranglers Charity Golf Day fundraisers.

Alistair Leaver, Rotary Club of Frankston members David Cross, Bill Redfern and Suzanne Caldwell, and Kelly Gilbert with their awards.

property home garden

Downsizing and its many faces

At some stage in our lives, most people consider downsizing. In real estate terms it usually means moving to a smaller home to free capital, reduce maintenance costs, reduce garden size and to free up spare time.

The decision to downsize may be prompted by health issues, advancing age, retirement, children leaving home, financial pressures, a desire to travel, divorce, or simply a desire for change. With the current high cost of living, the move to downsize is sometimes to enable parents to become the bank of Mum and Dad and in turn assist their adult children into their first homes.

The key considerations for downsizers are: Do I want a unit or house? Is the home single-level? Is it close to shops, public transport, medical facilities and schools? Is it low-maintenance? Does it have much storage? Is the garden large enough? Is there a body corporate? Is it close to family? Will it achieve my goals for moving?

Downsizing can be an overwhelming process. Selling an existing home, disposing of furniture, parting with loved items accumulated over a lifetime, finding a new home and moving house is incredibly taxing. It is therefore important to downsize before you actually need to so that you remain in control of the decisions affecting your life. Failing health or tight finances all require pre-emptive action. Don’t wait until it is too hard or too late.

Change is good, and once settled into their new home, most downsizers relish the freedom of their new lifestyle.

If you have decided to downsize, be sure to speak with family, financial advisers, your conveyancer and local real estate agents about your options. Also, give considerable thought as to whether you are in a financial position to buy before you sell.

COASTAL AGENTS

A: 50 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza

M: Liz, 0417 559 992

M: Meg, 0400 190 242

W: www.coastalagents.com.au

PENINSULA STYLE GIVEAWAY

Combining the on-trend woven look with a sleek birch timber frame, the Trilogy dining chair has a versatile design for your dining room..

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON

HomeCo Peninsula, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington P: 8560 1137

www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

FB: OZDesignFurniture INSTA: ozdesignfurniture

The award winning Seine chair from himolla Germany offers superb comfort and support along with 3 size options, up to 3 motors, and a variety of functionalities including Heart Balance and Lift and Rise. This contributed to the chair winning the prestigious AGR award for excellent ergonomic comfort. Normal Prices start from $5499. Exclusive to Luduco Living

LUDUCO LIVING

HomeCo Peninsula, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington P: 5975 4899

In March two lucky readers will each win a double pass to Hoyts Cinema - RRP$50

Find your local Hoyts Frankston at 21 Wells St, Frankston www.hoyts.com.au/cinemas/frankston FB: facebook.com/hoytsaustralia/ Insta: instagram.com/hoytsaustralia/

To enter, become a member of Mornington Peninsula Magazine at www.morningtonpeninsulamagazine.com.au/ vip-area, then check out @MornPenMag on Facebook and Instagram to complete all the entry steps on the competition post.

Roof Extenda gets on top of the problem

Originally an idea that quickly turned into reality, Roof Extenda is the name the late great inventor and entrepreneur Don Dunkinson gave to the solution to the problematic and inconvenient installation of pergolas to fascias.

Roof Extenda, the Australian-made and Australian family-run company passed down from Don to his children, is in the business of making life easier when building a pergola or carport. Roof Extenda makes brackets that penetrate through the roof to create a clearance between the pergola beam and the existing house, allowing air flow, access to your gutters, clearance for tall vehicles and so much more. What makes the Extenda brackets a better way is the installation. Instead of connecting to the fascia, you can install Roof Extenda brackets on top of your wall top plate pressed against your house rafter. The brilliance doesn’t end there. Once you have your bottom bracket connected, you decide what height clearance you want between your roof line and your pergola beam. Don’s fascinating mind is giving you the freedom of setting the bracket height to suit your requirements. The threaded rod allows the top bracket to wind down to your dedicated height, and it is then locked into place with a hex nut.

Don didn’t stop at just pergola brackets. Roof Extenda also makes shade sail anchors and roof safety anchors. With an easy-to-install DIY mentality, Don always strived to achieve this goal with all his Roof Extenda products.

The convenience continues with most hardware stores around Australia stocking the brilliant products. Having always operated on the Peninsula and by keeping manufacturing local, it is a better way for all pergola and carport solutions.

Drop in to view our range and chat with our helpful, knowledgeable staff.

ROOF EXTENDA

A: Factory 13/5 Speedwell St, Somerville

T: 5978 8755

W: www.roofextenda.com.au

INSTA: roofextenda

Don Dunkinson

Tiny Home Expo has huge housing solutions

The Tiny Home Expo is coming to the Mornington Peninsula this month, and expo organisers say the event is gathering more and more interest as people seek alternative solutions to a multitude of pressures from rental stress, the housing crisis, aged care alternatives, and options for young people wanting to save rental money.

“While initially the tiny house movement was in the realm of alternative lifestyles, a greener solution and coming from the aspect of having less ’stuff’, in more recent years it has attracted a much wider audience in search of solutions to an array of issues, the most obvious one being the housing crisis,” said expo organiser Phae Barrett.

“Few people realise how easy it is to find land to use and how simple it is to live in such a small space, and fewer people realise how life-changing it can be to have peace of mind and no mortgage, less stuff and a simpler living arrangement.”

From just a handful of tiny home builders across the country in 2019, there are now more than 300 within the industry producing thousands of homes that are for living in or for use as an Airbnb or farm stay, granny flat, spare room, office, or just extra space.

“They're such a tangible item – something that needs to be seen, touched, felt and stood in – so it is awesome that people can come to an expo and be able to physically view so many different designs and spaces as well as talk to each builder in person,” said Lance, another of the organisers. “We have real tiny rooms/offices and micro homes and everything in between, and even 15m x 5m modular buildings that are perfect for a studio or granny flat. Many are on wheels and are either single storey or have upstairs

bedrooms. The layouts are quite diverse.” In addition, the expo will feature talks and advice on finding land; dealing with councils; how to go totally off-grid with solar, water and toilets; towing; finance and general ideas.

“It really does open your mind to many possibilities, and people are often mind-blown by the quality and spacious, modern and luxury feel of these houses,” said Jodie, who attended last year’s expo and has chosen her tiny house builder. “I am super-excited to start living tiny and changing my life.”

The Tiny Home Expo is at Mornington Racecourse on Friday, March 22, from 10am-3pm, and Saturday and Sunday, March 23-24, from 9am-5pm. The expo has a staggered ticketing system to reduce queuing into display houses, with tickets ranging from $20-$35; children are free. You can also find a comprehensive Q&A section at www.tinyhomesexpo.com.au

Modular Homes Australia’s innovative solution to the housing crisis

In the face of Australia's pressing residential crisis, the quest for accessible, quality housing has never been more urgent. Modular Homes Australia is a pioneering company committed to revolutionising the way we think about living spaces. With a blend of innovation, affordability and sustainability at its core, Modular Homes Australia is reshaping the landscape of home ownership one modular unit at a time.

Its reason is simple: everyone deserves a place to call home. Modular Homes Australia offers more than a place to live; it provides a pathway to stability, security and financial empowerment.

Modular Homes Australia manufactures houses that have been built off site then transported to their final location ready for connections. Because much of the production happens before reaching the final site, houses can often be completed in weeks rather than months. The current turnaround time for units is eight weeks.

Modular Homes Australia is more than simply a manufacturer; they will manage the entire process with you. Once you propose a space on which to set your unit, they will assess the viability, propose a range of options for you and then manage the process of construction and delivery to your chosen site.

The base model will enable you to have a fully functioning unit suitable for living in, ideal for renting out for short or long-term stays as an investment, for a family member to live in, accommodation

for staff, or as a home office or studio. Upgrade options are also available if you need to tailor specific solutions such as accessibility or enhanced safety requirements.

Modular Homes Australia is committed to quality. Their homes are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meticulously designed for comfort, style and functionality. With a focus on energy efficiency, these homes are more than simply comfortable living spaces; they’re investments in a sustainable future.

At a time when housing insecurity looms large, Modular Homes Australia offers an innovative new approach to escalating challenges as it continues to expand horizons and redefine what's possible.

MODULAR HOMES AUSTRALIA

A: 27 Frankston Gardens Drive, Carrum Downs

T: 9770 8770; Danny O’Brien 0419 886 173

Changes to state laws pave the way for secondary dwellings

Victoria's housing landscape is evolving, and recent changes to legislation mean granny flats, tiny houses or modular homes are emerging as a popular way to increase a property’s value. Also known as secondary dwellings, these self-contained living spaces offer versatility and opportunity.

Understanding the legislation surrounding second dwellings is crucial for homeowners. The recent changes introduced by the State Government, effective from last December, aim to simplify the process of building small second homes. Under the new rules, smaller second homes of less than 60 square metres may not require a planning permit on properties larger than 300 square metres.

Under Clause 73.03 of the Victoria Planning Provisions, a small second dwelling is defined as a self-contained residence with a gross floor area of 60 square metres or less, equipped with essential amenities such as a kitchen sink, food preparation area, a bath or shower, and a toilet and wash basin.

Your property will likely be suitable for a second dwelling if:

• Your total block size, including the land your current dwelling is on, is more than 300 square metres

• There is pedestrian access to the proposed unit. This can be directly from the street or along a path down either side of the current dwelling on the block

• The designated area is not over a major easement

• There is a main dwelling on the block.

Amendment VC253 brings several highlights. First, it introduces a simplified approval process, potentially exempting small second dwellings from planning permits or making them eligible for the streamlined VicSmart permit process, facilitating quicker development. Second, there's a notable emphasis on sustainability, requiring new dwellings to meet energy efficiency and environmental standards.

While these reforms offer promising opportunities, it's vital to ensure compliance with building regulations and codes. The Building Act 1993 and Building Regulations 2018 outline the requirements for building second dwellings in Victoria, including permits and construction standards. Second dwellings must be self-contained and meet specific criteria to be classified

as a dependent person’s unit, occupied by a person dependent on those in the main home.

It is vital to consider expert advice when installing a second dwelling or modular home on your property. In addition to compliance, a house that is aesthetically pleasing and built for comfortable, stylish and functional living is of course ideal. Find an expert who can assist in guiding you through the entire process, from initial query, viability assessment and consultation through to manufacturing, installation and connection to essential services.

The process can be much faster and more streamlined than traditional builds and will ideally result in a stylish and functional home for your family, staff, to rent for short or long stays or even use yourself as a home office or studio.

Overall, second dwellings present a range of benefits, from additional living space to increased rental income. By staying informed about the regulatory changes and working with a reputable builder, homeowners can maximise the potential of a second dwelling as a valuable addition to their properties. As Victoria's housing landscape continues to evolve, second dwellings offer a flexible and sustainable solution for meeting diverse housing needs.

Enormous potential of tiny homes

In the heart of Australia's housing dilemma, Tiny Built Co emerges as a beacon of innovative, affordable living solutions. The company is not just building homes; it is redefining the essence of what home means for Australians.

Tiny Built Co is challenging traditional housing by offering tiny houses that are as luxurious as they are adaptable. The tiny houses are designed to cater to a variety of lifestyles and financial goals, making downsizing easier and providing the opportunity for freedom and indulgence. Built on trailers, these tiny homes are an opportunity for owners to embrace a change of scenery or an attractive financial investment.

Tiny Built Co prides itself on its commitment to making

smart and luxurious housing accessible to Australians. Join the movement and get a glimpse of Australia’s future housing at the

March 22-24. Dream big, live tiny with Tiny Built Co.

Victorian Tiny Home Expo from

Invite natural light into your home with sheer curtains

During this time of year we still want to make the most of the natural daylight whenever possible. Sheer curtains allow you to do just that, being the ideal solution for adding a soft ambience, providing daytime privacy and minimising glare. Creating a beautiful connection between your indoor and outdoor living areas, sheer curtains will gently float across your windows, transforming any space.

Experience the ease of operation with dollar curtains + blinds’ new operating system and say goodbye to pulling heavy curtains back and forth. Now a convenient flick of a wand is all it takes for them to glide easily from side to side. Discover a range of styles and designer fabrics that cater to a wide range of home designs at dollar curtains + blinds. For the ultimate duo of functionality and character, consider layering your sheer curtains with

another window covering such as blinds, shutters or double curtains to have the best of both worlds.

Reach out to our dedicated Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for your free design, measure and quote. Both stores are open Monday to Friday from 9am-5.30pm and Saturday from 9am-5pm. Currently building a new home? dc+b can also provide expert advice and a free quote off your house plans.

DC+B

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

T: 5975 3655

E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au

A: Shop 15, Kingston Central Plaza, 288 Centre Dandenong Rd, Moorabbin Airport

T: 9566 8200

E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au

FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds

INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds

Gstruct Group makes dream homes come true

Gstruct Group is the premier custom build specialist for the Mornington Peninsula and inner Melbourne. Specialising in high-end custom residential builds and large-scale bespoke transformations, it consistently delivers exceptional homes that go above and beyond client expectations.

Director Glenn Longstaff has more than 30 years’ experience in the construction industry and has learnt the building trade from the ground up. Rising through the ranks from apprentice carpenter to become construction manager on multiple notable projects here in Australia and in the UK, Glenn’s extensive knowledge in the building game led him to the role as construction manager of the award-winning Jackalope Hotel from start to finish.

Gstruct Group’s impressive portfolio includes some of the most prestigious and cutting-edge homes in Melbourne. Tune in to the upcoming Season 3 of Australia's Best House with Megan Gale and marvel at another of Gstruct Group’s recent stunning builds.

Gstruct Group has valuable experience in detailed complex builds that celebrate craftmanship and liveability. Glenn personally manages each project and is widely known for his honest, open, professional and detail-oriented approach.

If you’re thinking of building and want a builder that guarantees work ethic, integrity, attention to detail and care, let Glenn demonstrate how he can exceed your expectations.

GSTRUCT GROUP

T: 0412 504 225

E: glenn@gstruct.com.au

W: www.gstruct.com.au

FB: gstructgroup

INSTA: gstruct_group

Make life easier with serviced apartments

Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older people who would like to live independently with some help to make life easier. They are typically located within the village community centre where there is always someone to talk to and a relaxed community atmosphere to enjoy. There are many benefits of serviced apartment living at Long Island Retirement Village in Seaford and they include: Extra support – benefit from visiting health professionals and allied health services. There are activities to suit every lifestyle and ability.

Chef-prepared daily meals – every meal is freshly prepared and full of flavour. Enjoy the social side of eating in the dining room or, if you prefer, you can have your meal delivered to your room.

Social activities – join in as much or as little as you like. There are morning teas, music and other entertainment, art, craft and hobby groups, board games, movies, seasonal events, swimming, shopping,

and day trips in the village bus.

Safety and security – emergency call buttons are in every unit. Nursing staff at the village provide additional peace of mind.

Be freed up from cleaning and laundry – your assisted living apartment will be cleaned for you every week. Laundering of bed linen and towels will be done for you too.

Affordable living – Centennial Living’s Long Island Village has serviced apartments with an entry price less than you might expect, ranging from $150,000 to $210,000. When you move in, you pay a monthly service fee. Contact us to find out more about the costs.

For more information, go to www. centennialliving.com.au and fill out the Contact Us form.

CENTENNIAL LIVING

T: 1300 098 000

W: www.centennialliving.com.au

Chill out in the shade while the sun shines

It’s time to enjoy precious outdoor time with family and friends – and that’s where Camerons Blinds & Awnings can help you. They are all about transforming the way you live, and with a custom-made folding arm awning they can create a cool and shaded oasis for you, perfect for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

Camerons Blinds & Awnings owner Norm Lees says the functional cantilever design of folding arm awnings, supported by strong, engineered, highly spring-tensioned arms, means that when extended, no posts or supports are required, leaving the area below free for you to entertain or relax. Operation is so easy and automation is also an option for all awnings, with wind and sun sensors if needed. Their motors can be operated via remote control and also via your device/home automation.

Camerons Blinds & Awnings’ state-of-the-art hardware consisting of extruded powder-coated aluminium with

stainless steel components and fittings, combined with an extensive range of premium fabrics made for the Australian sun, provide the ultimate in strength, quality, shade, style and comfort.

With Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula’s largest choice of folding arm awnings, Camerons Blinds & Awnings have been manufacturing and professionally installing quality products for 38 years, with awnings to suit all budgets and applications.

Offering a shop-at-home service, they come to you to provide you with a free measure and quote, plus all the advice, solutions and samples required to transform, shade and protect your outdoor area.

You can also visit their huge showroom so you can try out full-size working products before you buy.

CAMERONS BLINDS & AWNINGS

A: 3/700 Frankston-Dandenong Rd, Carrum Downs

T: free call 1800 GOOD AWNING (1800 466 329)

W: cameronsblinds.com.au

FB: cameronsblinds

INSTA: cameronsblindsawnings

Airbnb income without the headaches

Using your second property or holiday home for Airbnb rentals has high appeal because of the great financial returns often available, but the hassles and extra efforts that come hand in hand can really taint the picture.

Yes, you can manage the rentals yourself, but experienced and licensed property managers are likely to be your fastest route to more money and fewer headaches. That’s something we all definitely want in our lives.

Holiday Rentals Australia steps up for many owners to do just that: generating better

returns for you with less work from you. Amateur managers promise but professional managers deliver. Focused on building trust with owners through commonsense advice and complete dependability, they succeed by doing ordinary things extraordinarily well and get rave reviews from owners and guests alike. Wouldn’t you want hands-on managers like them on your team?

To talk holiday rentals and find out more about their unique, personal approach, contact James on 0435 768 514.

HOLIDAY RENTALS AUSTRALIA

T: 0435 768 514

W: www.holidayrentalsaustralia.com.au

Sailing into a solar-powered future

ATTENTION HOLIDAY HOME OWNERS

We’re looking for you and your holiday house or apartment!

Whether you already use it for holiday rentals, managing it yourself or through an agent, or are considering holiday rentals for the first time, we’d love to talk with you.

We pride ourselves on helping holiday home owners make the best possible returns with the least hassle, whilst keeping their properties in perfect condition to get glowing reviews.

Call James today on 0435 768 514 for a friendly no-obligation chat and appraisal of your property.

www.HolidayRentalsAustralia.com.au

Mornington Yacht Club is powering into the new year with solar panels installed as part of Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Solar for Tenants program. The club is one of nine shire tenants taking part in the program, which covers the cost of the panels and recoups the outlay through interest-free repayments based on a portion of the tenants’ power bill savings.

“The MYC committee has been looking into solar options for a while, and this proposal came to us at the right time,” said club manager Sarah Grant.

“Sailing by its very nature is environmentally friendly; by participating (in the program) we are taking environmental action by installing solar with no up-front capital costs and an interest-free payment plan. Along with a saving on our bills, MYC’s commitment is for a cleaner, greener, and more energy-efficient future and we encourage other eligible local businesses and organisations to join the program. It’s great to see the shire helping the community through these innovative programs and taking climate action seriously. We look forward to powering our club with the sun.”

In a statement the shire said the participants, which also include kindergartens, bowls clubs and retailers, would save about $30,000 a year on their energy bills, and it invited other tenants of shire-owned building to email Solar4Tenants@mornpen. vic.gov.au if they were interested in taking part.

Mayor Simon Brooks said: “This program puts our commitment to our planet into action.”

How to style a leather sofa

Many families prefer a leather sofa for their living room, as it is easy to clean and provides longevity and warmth all year round. However, leather can often feel heavy in a space, especially when upholstered in a dark hide. To achieve a well-balanced aesthetic it is necessary to consider different tones and materials when styling around the sofa. By incorporating brighter colours or contrasting textures, such as using lighter throw pillows or adding a thick rug, the heaviness of the leather sofa can be offset. This helps create a visually appealing and harmonious ambience in the room.

Mixing and matching materials can also help lighten the overall feel of the room. Adding elements such as natural stone or metal accents can create a sense of airiness and prevent the leather sofa from dominating the space. For instance, pairing a dark leather sofa with a marble coffee table or glass vases can help create contrast and add visual interest to the space.

To complete your living room setting, include a fabric armchair like we have done here with the Kath swivel chair. This is the perfect way to balance out the rich brown tones of the Kobe sofa with a comfortable addition as well as providing extra seating for your family or guests.

With these styling tips, achieve a beautifully balanced interior that will enter each season with ease. Make your house feel

like a home and discover furniture and homewares collections that will live with you through every moment. OZ Design. For Life.

OZ DESIGN MORNINGTON

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

T: 8560 1137

W: www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

FB: OZDesignFurniture

INSTA: ozdesignfurniture

Embracing the ever-changing rhythm of nature, transitioning from warm-season vegetable crops to cool-season delights in your home garden is a dance of renewal and anticipation.

As the summer sun begins to mellow and the days slowly surrender to the cooling weather of autumn, there's a certain magic in the air. It's a time to shift gears, to bid farewell to the sun-kissed tomatoes, corn and pumpkins and welcome the crisp vibrancy of cool-season vegetables. The process of transitioning is not just a pragmatic necessity but a celebration of the cyclical nature of gardening. It's about working with the seasons rather than against them, understanding that each crop has its moment to shine under the sun before gracefully passing the baton to the next in line.

First and foremost, take a stroll through your garden as the warm-season crops bow out. There's a sense of fulfilment in the air, but also the promise of new beginnings. The sprawling vines of once-thriving tomatoes may be withering and the cucumber tendrils might be losing their grip, but don't see this as an end; see it as a transformation. Clear away the remnants of the summer spectacle and create a canvas for the cool-season symphony about to unfold.

As you dig your hands into the soil, there's a therapeutic rhythm to the clearing process. Pull out the spent plants, trim away the yellowing leaves, and let the earth breathe. This isn't just about tidying up; it's about making room for the next act. Nature has a way of rejuvenating itself, and your garden is no exception. The soil, enriched by the remnants of the warm-season harvest, becomes a fertile ground ready to embrace the cool-season treasures.

Picture this: the aroma of damp earth fills the air as you prepare the soil for its next role. Compost, that alchemical concoction of kitchen scraps and garden waste, becomes the secret ingredient. Mix it in, turn the soil and witness the transformation. It's a nurturing gesture, a way of telling the earth that you appreciate its efforts and are ready for the next dance.

Now the stage is set and it's time to select the stars of the cool-season show. Leafy greens, with their vibrant hues and nutrient-packed leaves, are like the prima ballerinas of the garden. Kale, spinach

and an array of lettuces take centre stage, bringing a burst of freshness to your plate.

Root vegetables join the ensemble, adding a touch of mystery as they grow beneath the surface. Carrots, radishes and beets quietly develop, promising a crunchy and colourful harvest when the time is right. Their earthy flavours become the grounding notes in the garden's symphony.

And then there are the brassicas – the bold performers that withstand the chill with resilience. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and brussels sprouts unfurl their leafy elegance, embodying the garden's strength in the face of changing seasons.

Timing is everything in this dance of nature. It's a delicate balance between the warmth lingering from summer and the cool whispers of impending winter. Plant too early and the seeds may struggle to germinate; plant too late and they may not mature before the frost arrives.

As you sow the seeds and witness the first tender shoots emerge, you become a choreographer orchestrating the garden's ballet. Protect these delicate performers with row covers or cloches, shielding them from unexpected frosts. It's an act of care and foresight, ensuring that your garden's grand finale is as spectacular as its opening night.

In the end, transitioning from warm-season to cool-season vegetable crops is not just a practical shift; it's a poetic journey. It's about aligning with nature's cycles, about understanding that the ebb and flow of the seasons are woven into the very fabric of your garden. So embrace the transition with open arms, relish the nuances of each season, and let your homegrown vegetables tell the story of a garden that dances through the rhythm of time.

HAPPY GARDENING!

Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens

www.ediblegardens.com.au

A passion for comfort

Hello beautiful autumn! It’s the time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale. There is no better time than autumn to begin forgetting the things that trouble us, allowing them to fall away while relaxing in a luxurious IMG recliner.

IMG seamlessly integrates elegance, comfort and function to create the perfect recliner and sofa, and all are produced with carefully selected materials that ensure optimum performance, support and durability.

Every element of the IMG design has been researched and engineered with a focus on both functionality and comfort, backed by a 10-year warranty so you can rest assured that you have invested in state-of-the-art Scandinavian-inspired furniture that lasts.

Recliner construction incorporates fully steel-sprung frames and cold-cured moulded foam to deliver unsurpassed comfort and support. This is coupled with an extensive choice of quality top grain leathers and fabrics.

These truly unique chairs also come in a range of sizes and base types to enable you to personalise your comfort zone, as well as motorisation for the ultimate relaxation experience.

With an international market, IMG has been producing these stunning pieces globally for many years, thus cementing its solid reputation for flawless recliners worldwide. Find out for yourself by visiting Big Chair Living in Mornington or Sorrento and discover body-correct support and true Norwegian comfort created by IMG.

BIG CHAIR LIVING

A: 140 Main St, Mornington

T: 5976 1960

A: 119 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento

T: 5984 3388

W: www.imgcomfort.com.au

FB: IMGcomfort

INSTA: imgcomfort

trades to you your guide to local tradespeople

Trades To You highlights the many talented tradies across the Peninsula and Greater Frankston area. This is now a regular part of Mornington Peninsula Magazine that has been received so well with the community coming together to support our local tradies.

If your weekends consist of starting a DIY project, fixing a failed DIY project or perhaps styling your fresh, professionally installed garden, patio or

8222. You will find we have super rates starting from $140 a month and editorial options for you to showcase what you offer to an engaged audience.

Got wood rot?

Great service, workmanship and professionalism from Ben and his team!

Saved us thousands $$$ on replacement of concertina doors. Special shout out to Zac who was a delight to have working in the house. Highly recommend.

Explore the limitless possibilities of concrete pools

Both fibreglass and concrete swimming pools have their advantages and disadvantages. In the past, fibreglass pools were cheaper than a comparable size concrete pool, which was their main advantage, but we are seeing this gap close considerably.

One significant advantage of concrete pools is their unparalleled durability. Constructed with reinforced concrete, these pools are robust and can withstand the test of time, resisting cracks, leaks and structural damage better than fibreglass alternatives. This durability ensures that concrete pools have a longer lifespan, providing homeowners with peace of mind and fewer maintenance hassles over the years.

Additionally, concrete pools offer unmatched flexibility in design and customisation. Unlike fibreglass pools, which are limited in shape and size, concrete pools can be fully customised to make the most of a space. From unique shapes and sizes to custom features such as built-in spas, water features, beach areas and in-water benches, concrete pools allow for limitless creative possibilities, enabling a truly bespoke design.

Concrete pools offer superior aesthetic appeal and can seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape. With the ability to choose from a variety of finishes including rendered finishes and an enormous range of ceramic and glass tiles, homeowners can achieve the perfect look to complement their property. Concrete pools have almost no limitations; they can be integrated into existing landscaping features such as terraces, decks and gardens, creating a cohesive and visually stunning backyard retreat.

In summary, concrete swimming pools offer numerous advantages over fibreglass pools, including durability, customisation, aesthetic appeal, and long-term value. With their ability to adapt to diverse designs and provide a luxurious outdoor experience, concrete pools remain a popular choice for homeowners seeking the ultimate in style and functionality for their backyard oasis.

Reach out to The Outdoor Society to start designing your perfect pool and landscape today.

THE OUTDOOR SOCIETY

A: Level 1, Unit 3, 30 Peninsula Blvd, Seaford

T: 0432 803 750

W: www.outdoorsociety.com.au

Discover the timeless elegance of Highview Homes

You might have noticed some elegant homes as you drive along Nepean Highway, passing Bentons Rd in Mount Martha. These eye-catching houses are display homes created by Highview Homes, a name synonymous with quality and heritage.

Highview Homes' signature period-style brick or weatherboard homes seamlessly blend the architectural details of the past with the practicality of modern living. The Hampton, Federation, Seachange and Victoriana designs each capture the essence of a bygone era while integrating contemporary layouts and functionality, perfectly suited for today's discerning homeowners.

What distinguishes Highview Homes is its dedication to customisation, ensuring every homeowner's vision

is brought to life. Whether it's modifying facades or tailoring floor plans to suit specific needs and block sizes, the team at Highview Homes will ensure each client's dream home is realised down to the last detail.

Highview Homes has stayed true to the original vision of homes built with superior craftsmanship delivered with excellent customer service. High-quality craftmanship runs in the Highview family. The original tradesman, Bob Sheppard, began his working life on the family market garden in Bentleigh before venturing into the building industry in the 1940s, first delivering horsehair plaster then moving into other trades. His son, Rex, was an apprentice plumber in the mid-1950s before becoming a builder in his own right.

The family tradition continues with Russell, who now owns and manages the business. Russell oversees every project personally, and with his keen eye for detail he helps projects stay on schedule and within budget, minimising any unforeseen complications and ensuring a smooth experience for homeowners.

Explore the craftsmanship and expertise of Highview Homes at the display homes in Mount Martha, where you can experience firsthand the thoughtful design and timeless appeal that defines a Highview home. They’re open Wednesdays, Saturday and Sunday from 11am-4pm.

From the initial consultation to the final stages of construction, Highview Homes is dedicated to providing a personalised, customer-focused service, ensuring that every step of the home-building process is smooth and efficient. With Highview Homes you can enjoy a home that blends the very best of tradition with modern comfort.

HIGHVIEW HOMES (VIC)

A: 58 Bentons Rd, Mount Martha

T: 5973 5973

W: www.highviewhomes.com.au/ FB: HVHbuilder

INSTA: highview.homes