Mornington Peninsula Magazine January 2024

January 2024

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36 page liday o H r e m m u S ide section ins

everything we love about the peninsula & frankston, fresh every month SUMMER HOLIDAY • LIVE MUSIC • BUSINESS AWARDS • PETS • HEALTH & BEAUTY • ARTS • HOME LIVING • FOOD • BUSINESS

Trevor Neate’s current Morning Mist boat.

Trevor’s father, Alf, with the first Morning Mist boat.

Historic race to Geelong comes full circle The Festival of Sails, the oldest and largest keelboat regatta in the southern hemisphere, brings a touch of nostalgia this year for Mornington Yacht Club’s Rear Commodore Trevor Neate. While the event has continued to run annually from Melbourne to Geelong for 181 years, 2024 marks the return of the Mornington to Geelong passage after a four-decade hiatus.

Morning Mist. A glass reinforced plastic sloop designed by Sparkman & Stephens and constructed in Perth by Swarbrick Bros, the newly purchased S&S – its designers since famed for repeat America’s Cup success – was one of only two in Australia at the time. Fellow club member Peter McIntyre owned and raced the second S&S boat, Morning Matilda.

Mornington and Blairgowrie yacht clubs both have a history of taking part in the race to Geelong from the Mornington Peninsula through the 1960s to the ‘80s. This year Safety Beach Yacht Club joins the fleet departing from Mornington Yacht Club at Snapper Point on January 26.

This year, the tradition resumes when Trevor races his own 10.9m keelboat Morning Mist, the latest in a long line of Neate family boats sharing the original moniker.

Competitors set sail for Geelong from Mornington Yacht Club at 9am on January 26.

For more information, visit festivalofsails.com.au or morningtonyc.net.au DANIELLE DAVEY

Trevor recalls as a 12-year-old watching his father Alf set out for Geelong during a regatta in the 1970s, the proud owner and skipper of a 10.3m keelboat named

( 4 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Growing up with the Mornington Yacht Club as his second home, Trevor’s lifelong passion for sailing saw the young teen enthusiastically join various crews in the annual race to Geelong. Trevor remembers the excitement of the regatta, with boats embarking from Mornington, Blairgowrie and Melbourne all seeming to converge in Corio Bay simultaneously, from which point the race was well and truly on.

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A mother’s candid tale of tragedy, grief and hope The Quinn Story is a brutally honest account of 16-year-old Quinn Story’s battle with PTSD, peer group pressure, puberty and psychosis, and his family’s endless fight to help him. Sarah Halfpenny speaks to Quinn’s mother, Monique Story, about her upcoming book release.

How did Quinn's struggles with mental health manifest?

Quinn was born perfect, physically and mentally. He was spiritual, sensitive, creative and a really beautiful human. When Quinn was 14 years old, he witnessed a horrific accident near school grounds. He changed from that moment on, and his happy personality began to disappear. PTSD set in and his mood became very dark. Quinn became extremely mentally ill and we made visits to numerous psychologists, psychiatrists and psych hospitals. He dropped out of school, started experimenting with drugs, cut himself off from the world and spent a lot of time in his room. He started taking an anti-psychotic tablet daily, but being a teenager he rarely took it. Quinn stopped eating, stopped sleeping and generally gave up on life. As a family we tried everything to cheer him up. He had three brothers, two dads and a mum who all adored him. I never for one minute thought we couldn’t get him through this horrible stage.

Why did you decide to be so transparent about Quinn’s life?

After losing Quinn, I was set up to talk to a grief counsellor. She encouraged me to write down any good and/or bad memories I had with Quinn; anything I was angry about, sad about, anything I wanted to remind him of or share with him. The grief counsellor also told me to expect to really fall apart around the four-month mark and not to take on too much. I would sit in Quinn’s bed and write these notes. As time went on I couldn’t stop, and I realised I was writing his whole life story. None of my boys are the show-off type and they all hate attention. I asked Quinn for his permission for me to tell his story and I received a very strong sign that he wanted his story told, warts and all. I continued to write Quinn’s story, as I felt it kept us connected.

The circumstances of Quinn's death are described as a drowning accident at the Pillars.

What happened leading up to this?

Quinn’s death is still very much a mystery. I received the final coroner’s report after two years and nothing had changed from the initial six-month report. Apparently, Quinn drowned, but he wasn’t found in the water. We don’t know how he ended up where he was found. I don’t have a day or time of death. How he got to the Pillars, who he was with, why he went there in June; we’ll never know if he had an accident or if he had an ulterior motive. As his mum who had such a strong connection, I have come up with answers for my own peace of mind, and I try not to let myself question Quinn’s final hours. I wouldn’t survive otherwise.

Tell us about Quinn’s Place and the support it offers young people.

We opened Quinn’s Place in Mornington as soon as possible after lockdowns lifted in Victoria. A youth centre is not something I had ever thought about. The idea came to me the moment Quinn was found. I believe the whole idea came from Quinn and he wouldn’t let me stop until the place was opened. Quinn’s Place provides a safe haven for youth in the area to call their own. They can turn up on Friday nights and know that there are friendly faces there, lots of fun things to do and plenty of food and drinks. And best of all it’s all free.

What do you hope readers will take away from The Quinn Story?

I’d like people to know what happened to Quinn, why his personality changed. Quinn suffered from PTSD. He was not a teenager on a 24/7 acid trip. He did not commit suicide. His brother Hunter did not murder him when he was in a bad mood. I want all the rumours to be put to bed and for the truth to come out. I also want people to realise that for all Quinn went through, his dying wish was for us to look after his friends. I took that as every teenager around, thus establishing Quinn’s Place.

For information on where to buy The Quinn Story, search for Quinn’s Place on Facebook and @ quinnsplace4theyouth on Instagram.

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I spy Who recalls or still enjoys the thrill of Pokémon Go, finding and capturing Pokémon species in the wild using their mobile phone? School holidays are the perfect time for families to increase the challenge and double the fun with a real-life Pokémon Go alternative: iNaturalist.

A free app, iNaturalist encourages users to take photos of flora and fauna species and upload them for identification and classification. Mornington Peninsula Shire ranger Rachel Devlin, who’s co-ordinator of destination conservation and operations, knows first hand the excitement this app is generating. There’s currently a thriving iNaturalist community on the Mornington Peninsula, with members vying for a place on the leader board based on the number of observations made.

Rachel says you don’t need to be an expert; just take the photos and add them to your tally. There are experts and experienced players online who will suggest identifications for the observations you upload. All verified sightings then go

( 8 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

into global databases, such as the Atlas of Living Australia. It’s rewarding to know that while undertaking a fun activity you’re contributing to an important record of biodiversity in the natural landscape.

Rachel encourages users to join a project on the app, such as the Briars Rangers Biodiversity Log she has created to log the various species found at The Briars. This project has already received 2498 observations by iNaturalist users with 788 species identified, and the number just keeps going up. iNaturalist enthusiasts are welcome to visit The Briars at Mount Martha where the focus is always on conservation and biodiversity. The 230ha property includes a wildlife sanctuary and wetlands, and rangers such as Rachel are on site to assist. Rachel says different eyes capture different views, and she recalls times that she has unknowingly walked past a small bug or plant when the person behind her has piped up with “What’s that beetle?” or “What’s that flower?”.

To learn more about the iNaturalist app, visit inaturalist.ala.org.au or simply download the app and get ready to ‘play’. For specific queries concerning the Briars Rangers Biodiversity Log project, email the.briars@ mornpen.vic.gov.au DANIELLE DAVEY Photos: Rachel Devlin

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Rosebud Vintage Bazaar is an iconic must-see store with more than 40 stalls in a huge 1928 Art Deco theatre. Full of vintage clothing from the 1890s to the 1990s and cute nostalgic items reminiscent of Nanna's house, the wonderful array of items will surprise and delight you. Rummage for a bargain, enjoy lots of quirky, vintage and retro items, antiques, records, collectables, recycled and upcycled goodies. After wandering the colourful aisles, it's hard not to leave with a spring in your step and a smile on your face.

6 Rosebud Pde, Rosebud The Portsea Vintage Bazaar is a fabulous summer pop-up that will only be open until mid-February, so don't miss out. Such a beautifully curated, high-end, quality range of vintage, retro, recycle and designer items in this store. The bright, colourful space features some of the most exceptional pieces we could find for your shopping pleasure.

Next to the Portsea Hotel; open seven days until 5pm.

A Very Vintage Tour is offering these unique vintage market tours of France in April or Italy in May, especially curated for vintage buyers or enthusiasts. We have a private car and driver and will stay near all the best markets in stunning, historical luxurious accommodation. The tours are medium-paced and places are limited.

France highlights include: Paris Vanves market, Amiens annual Grande Rederie, Gerberoy, Monet's garden/house, Chantilly, Paris Marché aux Puces, and the Nice antique market.

Italy highlights include: Bari vintage market, Monopoli Cave restaurant lunch, Otranto, Ostuni vintage market, luxe mansion stay and rooftop party, Alberobello, Locorotondo Trulli stay, Martina Franca vintage market, Matera.

For all inquiries, please email Helen at averyvintagetour@gmail.com

Don’t forget to visit our

Portsea Vintage Bazaar

Summer Pop-up!

Next to Portsea Hotel Open 7 days 9.30am-5pm

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11 )

A SMALL SELECTION OF THE AWESOME CONTENT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS EDITION

OUR COVER

STORIES 7

A mother’s candid tale The Quinn Story is a tale of tragedy, grief and hope

14

Peta Murphy’s remarkable legacy Remembered as a fearless community advocate

18

Peninsula’s footy sensation goes to Carlton Billy Wilson’s rise in the footy world

26

Food-growing system shaping lives Wallara has installed 42 planters at Sages Cottage

34

From puppies to puppets Meet Rob Irvin and his love of puppets

40

Riders saddle up for a month of championships An exciting line-up of horse riding events at Boneo Park

94

Coastrek returns to the Peninsula Get moving in nature and hike for a healthy heart

126

Ice-cream van at Mount Martha beach Read about this iconic image of summers past at Mount Martha

138

Everyday objects you will treasure forever lood designs products that will delight

Left: Cptn Jacks at Yaringa Harbour is the place to get your seafood fix this summer, see page 25.

Top: Relax on warm summer nights with the rattan Sanur designer chair from OZ Design, see pages 10, 130 and 132; Learn to paint with Greg Allen, see page 68 Bottom: Find music and theatre of every genre at Frankston Arts Centre including Joe Camilleri, see page 48-49; Real-life Pokemon Go alternative, iNaturalist, see page 8

CONTACT US Page 2652 Page

In Print, Online & on Social Media

FEATURES 48-49

Best Music Venues

50-85

Summer Holiday 36-page supplement

70-71

Summer’s Top Reads

80-81

Sips & Local Brews Map

104-111

MP Business Excellence Awards

SECTIONS 28 29 44 46 86 96 98 112 118 120 122 123 128 130 130 134 144

Astronomy column Ships column Peninsula Pets Parenting and Education Arts, Events & Leisure What’s On The Business Health, Beauty & Fashion Social Pics Your Stars Markets Food, Wine & Produce Peninsula’s Top Drops Giveaway Time Property, Home, Garden The Edible Gardener Trades to you

( 12 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Sales: Anna 0401 598 613 anna@mpmag.com.au Sales: Matt 0416 328 938 matt@mpmag.com.au Journalists & Feature writers: Sarah Halfpenny, Danielle Davey, Amy Campion, Lisa Walton, Mike Hast Publishing Manager: Belinda Timmerman publishing@mpmag.com.au Publisher, Editor: Lisa Walton lisa@mpmag.com.au

@MornPenMag @eatdrinkMornPen Mornington Peninsula Magazine EatDrink Mornington Peninsula

Page 72

Ph: 9708 8222 14/1140 Nepean Highway, PO BOX 3554, Mornington 3931

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.

Page 94

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

Kayenat discovers her pathway When Kayenat Ali enrolled in the Diploma of Community Services (CHC52015) at Chisholm, her initial career aspirations were clear: "My main priority when I first started studying was to help the people in my community." This goal was meaningful to her, especially as a newly arrived refugee.

As she progressed through her studies and engaged in practical placements, she found there was more to her field than she initially thought. "Working in social services made me realise the need for more comprehensive training to better understand my clients' needs."

This fuelled her desire to pursue an Associate Degree in Psychology (CRS1401151) through Chisholm's pathway program, enhancing her skills for practical solutions. The program's flexible study days on Tuesdays and Wednesdays allowed her to balance work and education effectively.

Cost-effectiveness was another advantage, as Kayenat found it more affordable compared with other institutions.

Her diploma included 400 hours of practical placements, which provided valuable tools and experience for her degree.

Furthermore, the support and guidance she received from

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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!

her teachers and the opportunities they presented to her was "one of the main reasons that helped influence my decision to pursue a degree in psychology in the first place", she said.

Kayenat plans to pursue her honours and become a clinical psychologist while remaining open to diverse settings. Her journey at Chisholm highlights the benefits of pathways, offering flexibility and support for achieving career aspirations. That flexibility enables students to transition from diplomas or certificates to degrees, defer qualifications to work, and return later to continue their careers.

We encourage you to explore pathways for yourself by following the link at www.chisholm.edu.au/students/ pathways/pathways-to-degrees CHISHOLM HIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGE A: Frankston, Dandenong, Berwick campuses T: 1300 244 746 E: highereducation@chisholm.edu.au W: chisholm.edu.au/studyHE

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 front-of-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 $20.00.

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

www.mpmag.com.au

13 )

Peta Murphy’s remarkable legacy After a long battle with metastatic breast cancer, Peta Murphy is remembered as a fearless advocate for her community.

In the high-stakes, high-stress world of federal politics, it might seem unusual that the prevailing memory of a politician would be a positive one – that of laughter – but it’s absolutely the case with the Dunkley federal Labor MP who died at home on December 4 aged 50, surrounded by her husband Rod and close family.

I was lucky to have worked for Peta last year, and when I say lucky it’s not a throwaway line. To be in Peta’s orbit and work in her office felt akin to being plucked out of the audience by a rock goddess and pulled up on stage. Being part of Peta's team wasn't your typical 9-to-5 gig. She had a knack for assembling a crew who clicked; the people I worked with were awe-inspiring individuals in their own right, bound by shared values, a commitment to making a difference, and plenty of laughs. It didn’t hurt that Peta occasionally brought her adorable labradors, Bert and Ernie, into the office for pats and cuddles.

Naturally, there were a lot of serious moments, navigating the ins and outs of federal politics, but there was always room for jokes. We were a team with a leader who had a razor-sharp wit, a steady supply of comebacks, a knack for a perfectly timed sarcastic comment, and a withering eye roll that never failed to crack us up.

She fostered an environment where we could rib her about her dancing ability – questionable, despite her protestations – or the hilarious outtakes from video and photo shoots, showcasing a rare and delightful quality in a leader: humility. Her self-deprecating humour made her not just a brilliant politician but also a topnotch human being.

It won’t surprise anyone who met her to know that Peta’s journey into Parliament followed a distinguished career devoted to social justice and community welfare. From roles in the Victorian justice system, volunteering at her community legal centre and serving as a solicitor advocate to becoming a senior public defender at Victoria Legal Aid, a barrister, and a team leader at the Victorian Law Reform Commission, Peta's commitment to making a positive impact defined her path.

( 14 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Elected in 2019, she proudly became the first woman to represent Dunkley, a legacy echoing the trailblazing efforts of Louisa Dunkley, a union leader and feminist in the early 1900s who campaigned for equal pay for women.

In her maiden speech in Parliament, delivered just weeks after receiving a re-diagnosis of the breast cancer that had initially surfaced in 2011, Peta paid homage to the fearless literary character Pippi Longstocking.

Pippi’s friend, Annika, cautions her against challenging "the world’s strongest man", to which Pippi confidently responds: "Man, yes. But I am the world’s strongest girl.

Remember that."

Beyond the laughter, the other things that stood out about Peta were her work ethic and compassion. It was widely acknowledged on both sides of politics that she was unrivalled in these areas – although she’d hate me saying that. I can see her now, giving me that well-honed eye roll. After her death, the House of Representatives sat for a condolence motion, moved

by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who said: “Peta Murphy was brave, she was courageous, and she was loved. Peta Murphy was the strongest of local members, the most inspiring of colleagues, and the very best kind of friend.” His sentiments were echoed by scores of politicians, including Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.

Peta was a dynamic force in the community, forging connections and providing tangible assistance to people from all walks of life. Her authenticity and hands-on approach left an indelible mark, evident in her resounding re-election in 2022 with an increased margin. Attempts by her staff to encourage her to take just one day off a week were usually met with spirited resistance, as Peta often took the opportunity to meet community groups and leaders, disguising it as a casual coffee catch-up.

Even at the end, Peta didn't relent. She travelled to Canberra to launch a Breast Cancer Network Australia report and was admitted to hospital the day after her final appearance in Parliament, mere days before her death.

A self-proclaimed “squash tragic”, she represented NSW, ACT and Victoria at junior and senior levels and went on to win gold medals at the Australian Masters, US Masters and World Masters Games. Off-court, she held key leadership roles in national and international squash organisations.

She didn’t just give us singular moments that will be left behind; she’s still present in the vast body of work she undertook and her countless achievements.

Her loss will be felt keenly by her many friends and acquaintances, and by her best friend and biggest supporter: Rod.

Despite facing health challenges that are beyond the comprehension of most of us, Peta’s resolve remained unyielding. She was a champion of so many varied causes: breast cancer, the arts, women’s health, local sport, and the Voice to Parliament, to name a few. She was the chair of a committee that fiercely confronted the powerful betting industry, ultimately contributing to a landmark report advocating for the ban of online gambling ads within three years.

We were given something extraordinary by having Peta represent Dunkley, and rather than moving on, I know we’ll move forward with her, forever influenced by her legacy.

Beyond the corridors of power, Peta's legacy is one of compassion, resilience, determination, and the transformative power of a genuine human connection.

In such a short time in politics, Peta had an impact on so many.

I hope that somewhere in the great beyond there are plenty of Peta’s favourite things: squash courts, labradors, a good gin and tonic, and lots of laughs. Vale Peta, our very own “world’s strongest girl”.

SARAH HALFPENNY mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Flinders Fringe to exhibit prominent emerging artist

Photo: Noa Smith Fletcher

Australian-Colombian artist Joshua Searle is an emerging talent from the Mornington Peninsula. A Sulman Prize finalist, Joshua has held seven solo exhibitions in just two and a half years, garnering him an impressive reputation in the art world. His work explores socio-cultural issues and the complexities of diasporic identity and existence.

Joshua will be featured as part of Flinders Fringe Festival 2024, showcasing two exhibitions: Stolen Gold at Flinders Hotel in conjunction with Stolen Gold in Monochrome at Cook St Collective. Curated by Emily McCulloch Childs, it examines pre-Columbian artefacts held in museum collections as a means to further understand his own diasporic identity. For the artist, ‘stolen gold’ refers to both the literal and metaphoric gold taken by colonisation.

Joshua’s Wall of Gold workshop will be a unique community project that brings together art, spray paint, and cultural connection. Participants will create a captivating street art piece in Flinders Village using a stencil image inspired by a Colombian gold mask currently housed in the British Museum.

Finally, you will be invited to an artist brunch at Flinders Hotel with Joshua in conversation with Everywhen Art director Emily McCulloch Childs and Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery director Danny Lacy. The brunch will include delicious food inspired by Joshua's Colombian heritage.

Supported by Mornington Peninsula Shire, the highly anticipated return of the Flinders Fringe Festival will light up the coastal village of Flinders from February 23-25. More than 30 events across 12 venues in Flinders Village are listed on www. flindersfringe.com.au NOA SMITH FLETCHER Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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17 )

Peninsula footy sensation’s journey to Carlton

From Red Hill Consolidated Primary School to the Carlton Football Club, Billy Wilson's rise in the footy world is nothing short of remarkable. A Dromana and Rosebud Football Club alum, the dashing defender from Dromana joined the Dandenong Stingrays and featured in all four matches for Vic Country at the under-18 national championships in the middle of last year.

Starting as a halfback, Billy's switch to the midfield showcased his explosive speed and precise passing.

Winning the Stingrays' best-and-fairest and making it to

( 18 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

the Coates Talent League Team of the Year, his standout performances turned heads.

At the state draft combine, Billy's athleticism stood out, impressing with a 2.94sec 20m sprint, a 75cm standing vertical jump and a 91cm running vertical jump.

Carlton's head of list management, Nick Austin, lauded the youngster's elite skills, expressing excitement about his diverse capabilities. “We love how Billy conducts himself both on and off the field, so we’re delighted that we’ve been able to welcome him to our football club via the draft,” Nick said. “He’s a really damaging user of the football who has already shown at such a young age that he’s more than capable in a number of positions around the ground, whether that’s as an inside or outside midfielder as well as across halfback.”

There’s something a little magic about the Mornington Peninsula when it comes to football and Carlton, with Billy joining Mount Martha’s Jacob Weitering,

Nic Newman and Tom De Koning and Pearcedale’s Matthew Cottrell at the Blues. “It’s unreal,” he told Carlton Media last month. “It’s going to be a good experience with them now, to relate back to where they came from.”

Dillon Milenkovic, a sports teacher at Red Hill Consolidated, fondly recalled Billy's early talent, noting that he clinched the sports award in Year 6.

Dillon praised Billy's humble and grateful attitude, which has carried him through his sporting career, and congratulated him on being drafted to Carlton at No.34, fulfilling a dream for the young player and bringing pride to his schools, clubs and the community.

As Billy steps on to the AFL stage with Carlton, his journey from local fields to the big league is an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the Peninsula and beyond.

AMY CAMPION mornington PENINSULA Magazine

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Residents invited to keep up with The New Joneses In 2021, The New Joneses – known for their commitment to sustainable living – set out on an EV road trip after COVID halted their decade of showcasing their award-winning tiny house.

Episodes of The New Joneses Road Trip – available online for free at thenewjoneses.com – not only explore climate change solutions, but also align with the UN’s sustainable development goals.

On a visit to picturesque Blairgowrie, they interviewed selfdescribed “creative sea nymph” Sheree Marris. A marine biologist, science communicator, author and underwater photographer, Sheree welcomes The New Joneses Road Trip into what she calls her “blue backyard” for episode 18 of their enlightening show.

Addressing the topic of Avoid Packaging. Recycle Right, Sheree sheds light on critical environmental issues, particularly the health of our oceans, by emphasising the indispensable role they play in sustaining life on Earth. Beyond providing food and livelihoods for billions, the ocean regulates climate and absorbs significant amounts of carbon. However, this delicate balance is threatened by plastic pollution, with only 9 per cent of all the plastic ever produced being recycled.

Sheree Marris, right, with the crew of The New Joneses at Blairgowrie.

Sheree invites viewers to adopt a zero-waste mindset and avoid single-use plastics. Recycling right, she says, is doable and crucial.

In her mission to promote actionable steps, Sheree reminds us that saying things such as “It's only one straw" when it’s multiplied by eight billion people means that every small act has the potential to become significant.

Inspiring us with a conscious approach to consumption, her advice includes the consistent use of reusable bags, coffee cups and water bottles; maintaining a four-bin recycling system; keeping food waste from landfill, and avoiding ‘wish-cycling’ – doing it wrong and wishing the non-existent recycling fairy will separate it for you.

Through a lively conversation with The New Joneses, Sheree also shares her experience of the impact of human actions on biodiversity in Port Phillip, which she describes as devastating but fixable. Sheree urges everyone to create a sustainable and wastefree future by starting in their own “blue backyards”.

Marine biologist Sheree Marris invites us to adopt a zero-waste mindset.

( 20 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Tamara DiMattina founded The New Joneses in 2012, transforming the concept of 'keeping up with the Joneses' into a movement focused on making choices beneficial for people and the planet.

Their efforts are highlighted in a web series featuring influential Australians making effective changes. You can watch episode 18 of The New Joneses Road Trip online at www.thenewjoneses.com/ sheree-marris-avoid-packaging-recycle-right and sign up for free to get tips and tricks on reducing your footprint at thenewjoneses.com SARAH HALFPENNY mornington PENINSULA Magazine

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Stars of the sea rest a while This image of a pale octopus and an 11-armed sea star on a Buddha head statue was taken off Rye Pier in July

by Mornington Peninsula underwater photographer Jules Casey. It won the animal category at the 2023 Australian Photography Awards.

It was not staged; the statue is part of an unofficial artificial reef started about 10 years ago, with the statue added to a new section installed during COVID lockdowns. The reef attracts a wide variety of sea life, and Jules said the octopus and sea star would have seen the head as a handy resting place.

Some of Jules’s work highlights marine pollution.

“With summer holidays around the corner, it’s especially important to keep our beaches and bays free of litter,” she said. “Please take your rubbish home with you.” Readers can follow Jules on Instagram at #OneBreathDiver Rye Pier is just one of the Peninsula’s stunning dive sites, with other inshore locations including piers at Blairgowrie, Portsea, Dromana and Mornington on Port Phillip as well as at Flinders over on Western Port, home of the world-famous weedy seadragon. In the deeper water of Port Phillip, The Heads and just outside it are dives on underwater cliffs, ledges and caves; 19th century shipwrecks; and ships such as HMAS Canberra sunk in 2009 especially for divers.

Local band Movers and Shakers playing at the Velvet Lounge Peninsula Beer Garden

( 22 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Mural a lively addition to Red Hill’s canvas

Cellar & Pantry Red Hill has become a lot more vibrant thanks to artist Charlie Ryan, whose new 20m mural along the front of the building is full of lively brushstrokes reflecting the rhythm of the community.

Known primarily for his smaller works on canvas, Charlie took on a larger challenge this time, capturing the essence of Red Hill life in a way that seems to really resonate with residents. The unveiling of the mural turned the venue into a happy hour gathering spot, embodying the town's lively spirit. Commissioned by Cellar & Pantry owners Joe and Dee Caligiuri, it’s based on Charlie’s Dance series of works.

Inspired by the dynamic community and representing a celebration of life as a dance, the mural was a collaborative effort, with Charlie’s young children Bella, Christopher and Rose contributing their energy to the giant ‘paint by numbers’ project, infusing it with a sense of joy and spontaneity. The result is a burst of interwoven colour and movement mirroring the beauty of life in Red Hill. The palette echoes the natural hues of the Peninsula, with blues from the nearby ocean, greens reflecting the landscape, and reds paying homage to the famous Red Hill earth.

Beyond this mural and his more traditional canvas works, Charlie’s artistic influence extends to other commercial work. From designing labels for Cape Schanck Olive Oil to crafting the aesthetics of Frogs Pond wine and the rebranding of the Red Hill Football Netball Club, you can see the influence of Charlie’s creativity across the Peninsula.

Charlie Ryan with his wife Natasha and their children Rose, Bella and Christopher.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

With its vibrant colours and swirling dance-like patterns, Charlie’s mural is set to become an integral part of the Red Hill narrative, weaving a tale of celebration and unity in every brushstroke.

AMY CAMPION

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Stadium’s shooting big goals for the community Frankston District Netball Association marketing and communications manager Rebecca Graham speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about the recently opened Jubilee Park Stadium.

What sets Jubilee Park Stadium apart as a premier sporting precinct on the Mornington Peninsula?

With the doors officially opening in October 2023, Jubilee Park Stadium is at the heart of the Mornington Peninsula’s sporting precinct and features six multipurpose indoor courts, paired with 13 outdoor netball courts, two AFL fields and cricket pitches, walking paths and more. With elite training and recovery facilities, multiple inclusive change rooms, four indoor cricket training nets and amenities to service the adjoining sports ovals, along with the equipment and line markings for netball, basketball, badminton, volleyball, wheelchair sports and more, the stadium caters for the entire community’s needs. The stadium supports the community on and off the court with a modern café and a range of meeting and function spaces that can accommodate small committee meetings, corporate events for up to 225 people, or end-of-season presentation nights.

What sporting tournaments and events can we expect to see here?

We will host a number of regional, state and national netball events in 2024. Volleyball Victoria and Cricket Victoria have used the facility already for tournaments and holiday clinics; we can’t wait to have the Melbourne Stars back in 2024. Local schools are planning their 2024 programs now. We welcome schools from Frankston and the wider Mornington Peninsula region playing netball, cricket, volleyball and basketball.

The stadium will accommodate an average of more than 5000 visitors per week in 2024, growing to welcome up to 10,000 at full capacity. If sport is being played anywhere on the Peninsula, it will almost always involve Jubilee Park Stadium and its partners.

Modern architecture meets sporting excellence at the new Jubilee Park Stadium.

How does the café enhance the atmosphere and visitor experience?

Our incredible and very spacious café forms the heart of our precinct and offers a large range of healthy food and beverages, which can be enjoyed either indoors or in the outdoor undercover heated seating area.

It’s a terrific meet and greet location for all visitors and the general public, and is conveniently situated in an elevated position with prime viewing to all outdoor courts and football/cricket fields.

Tell us about the significance of the stadium’s artwork.

The beautiful screen design that features on our stadium is based on artwork by Bunurong man John Winch. It depicts the changing of waterways within Bunurong Country, both by nature and humans. Bunurong people are working with others to restore Frankston’s natural waterways, and the artwork complements the presence of (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community gathering place) Nairm Marr Djambana, which is also located within the precinct.

Which sporting organisations and teams call Jubilee Park Stadium home?

It’s home to Frankston District Netball Association, which acts as the stadium’s manager, along with its elite Victorian Netball League team the Peninsula Waves, Frankston Peninsula Premier Cricket Club, and Frankston YCW Football Netball Club. FDNA has successfully managed our own facilities for more than 30 years and facilitates netball participation opportunities for 3000 people each week. With programs for people aged between five and 90, netball supports all of our Mornington Peninsula residents and visitors. FDNA hosts 14 clubs based across Frankston and the Peninsula. Our Peninsula Waves elite netball program has not had a home until the stadium was complete; for our junior players to see an elite pathway in their own neighbourhood is inspirational.

What are some upcoming events planned for Jubilee Park Stadium?

We proudly hosted Frankston City Council’s recent citizenship ceremony, which will become a regular event.

We partner with Victoria Police to facilitate the annual Victoria Police Community Engagement Day each October, at which the community is encouraged to connect with their local police and other council youth services. We are a registered Chatty Café venue and will be offering occasional-hours child care in 2024 to assist parents wanting to return to netball. Our junior committee is busy planning its podcast series for 2024, and we can’t wait to tell our community about the other opportunities to connect with sport and each other.

For more information, visit jubileeparkstadium.com.au

( 24 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Courtside views at the stadium promise unforgettable sporting moments.

The change rooms have a motivational backdrop to inspire every player. mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Lap up summer at Yaringa Boat Harbour Experience a fantastic day out at Yaringa Boat Harbour, a place that guarantees a unique and enjoyable visit every time. Families will adore the relaxed atmosphere of Jack’s Green, especially during the vibrant summer season. This spacious, inviting area next to Cptn Jack’s restaurant is the perfect spot for laid-back picnics and spending time with friends and family. Enjoy treats from the vintage caravan or find a cosy spot at the outdoor tables while soaking up the music. On summer weekends it’s the place to be.

If you’re in the mood for exploration, take a leisurely stroll around the harbour.

Visit the Chandlery, conveniently positioned opposite Jack’s Green where you’re guaranteed to find a great cup of coffee and a good yarn. Or if animal spotting is more your thing, wander through scenic paths and catch glimpses of Peninsula wildlife.

As the day winds down, make sure you catch the stunning sunset at Yaringa, some of the best Western Port has to offer. Extend your stay and relish a delicious meal at the renowned Cptn Jack’s restaurant, where delectable dishes are carefully curated from only the best Peninsula produce.

Yaringa Boat Harbour, Western Port’s hidden gem, offers a blend of adventure, discovery and tranquillity – a perfect combination for a memorable day out this summer.

Book Now January is filling up! cptnjacks.com.au | P. 5977 4939 | Thurs-Sat: Lunch/Dinner. Sun: Lunch | FB: Cptn Jack’s INSTA: cptnjacks

1 Lumeah Rd, Somerville Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

P. 5977 4154

www.yaringa.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

25 )

Food-growing system shaping lives on Peninsula farm A leading service provider for adults with disabilities is helping its clients grow in confidence while growing food on the Mornington Peninsula. Wallara has installed 42 planters at its Sages Cottage Farm, a 15ha working farm that provides educational programs and employment pathways for people with a disability and supports Sages Café.

The harvested vegetables and fruit are used in the café's menu items, and any surplus produce is either used to feed animals on the farm or sold as fresh produce at the Sages store and Mornington market stall.

The planters are called Foodcubes, and Foodcube director Brendan Condon said in a media release they represented a positive step towards sustainability and self-sufficiency in local food production. “It's heartwarming to see the impact it has on Wallara's clients and the community,” Mr Condon said. “Our modular, water-efficient Foodcube wicking beds are very easy

( 26 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

to install and use and are empowering communities across Australia to grow fresh food in their workplaces, homes and communities.”

Wallara farm lead Michael Eden said the installation of the planters “provides another point of differentiation for the farm in becoming sustainable and provides the opportunity for clients to share their knowledge with the community through farm tours, helping us reach our mission”.

“The farm-to-plate experience has increased due to the volume of produce grown with the Foodcubes, providing opportunities for clients to talk about the life cycle of the plants being grown from seedlings through to plated meals,” Mr Eden said. “The Foodcubes have created a new area to include in farm tours for corporates, schools and the public that showcases the abilities of our clients as they talk with visitors on the benefits of the Foodcube system.

“The instant growth has just been incredible to watch.

Having the clients go through the entire process from assembling and filling the wicking beds, seeing their hard work instantly give reward, has made it a spectacle on the farm. We also share the rewards with multiple groups on the farm, whether it's the cooking groups harvesting for their lunch preparations, the makers studio harvesting flowers for dehydrating and even the farm tasks group harvesting extra greens to give to our animals. The clients have been a part of the program

from the very beginning and take great pride in learning about and seeing their work come to fruition.”

Foodcube said the planters had not only increased the amount of vegetables and fruit harvested but had provided an engaging and educational experience for its clients. “Clients participate in the entire process, from assembling and filling the wicking beds to planting, harvesting and maintaining the crops. This hands-on involvement has made a significant impact on their lives, teaching them about sustainable practices and the value of hard work.”

It said Wallara’s clients had developed a passion for urban farming and horticulture. “They find joy in witnessing the rapid growth of produce, assembling wicking beds and being part of the full circle moment from seed to plate.”

Sages Café is open to the public daily with “a fresh and inspired farm-to-plate menu, using the produce grown on site. Clients involved in the hospitality pathways programs have the opportunity to be employed in the café, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors”.

Foodcube said Wallara was “continuously working to improve and expand its offerings, including a rotunda in the Foodcube paddock as a space for reflection and relaxation, enhancing the visitor experience during corporate and school tours”.

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Full of interesting stellar matter, the Large Magellanic Cloud, incorporating the Tarantula Nebula and all the Globules, is 163,000 light-years from the Milky Way and is the fourthlargest galaxy in the Local Group. If the Tarantula Nebula was in the same region as Orion, it would cover a much larger part of the sky, as it is huge.

The Hunter and his dogs roam the summer sky This month the constellation Orion is ideally placed high in the sky. While exploring it you will see the Orion Nebula, M42, a bright, deep-sky object lying north of the chain of three stars that make up Orion’s belt. The nebula is easily visible through binoculars and can be seen with the naked eye as a hazy patch.

Also seen with binoculars is the Large Magellanic Cloud in the constellation Dorado, where among its sparkling stars you will find the Tarantula Nebula, which appears to the naked eye as a glowing patch the size of the full moon from a dark sky location.

Do not forget the Small Magellanic Cloud in Tucana either; it lies to the southwestern horizon this month, and its star fields and clusters can be seen with binoculars or a small telescope.

Sitting at the heels of Orion, the constellation Canis Major, the Greater Dog, is home to the brightest star of the entire night sky: Sirius, designated Alpha Canis Majoris, and known as the ‘dog star’. Sirius is a brilliant white star with a magnitude of -1.4. Canis Major represents one of the two hunting dogs of Orion, the Hunter, which sits nearby.

It is home to two fine open clusters: NGC 2362 and M41.

This month’s conjunctions, when two astronomical objects appear close to each other in the sky, include the moon and Venus on January 9, the moon and Saturn on January 14, and then the moon and Jupiter on January 19.

Also this month the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society will be holding its Summer Series public stargazing nights each Friday at the MPAS Observatory at The Briars in Mount Martha. They start at 8pm with a multimedia talk and Q&A before moving outside to view the moon, planets, stars and clusters through a wide array of telescopes supplied by the society and members. Bookings are essential, so don’t miss out.

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

( 28 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Joseph Conrad a graceful visitor to Melbourne The full-rigged ship Joseph Conrad, built at Copenhagen in 1882 as a schoolship, was 33.7m long.

Photo: The Dog Watch, 1948.

On the last day of 1935, the small full-rigged ship Joseph Conrad arrived at Williamstown. The ship was under the command of her owner, Alan Villiers, who was born in North Melbourne in 1903. From his early years Villiers planned to go to sea in sailing ships and at 15 was apprenticed in a small barque in the Tasman Sea trade. By the 1920s, sailing ships were being replaced by steam ships and he was unable to complete his apprenticeship. He later became a successful author, and after sharing a partnership in a sailing vessel he was able to buy the Joseph Conrad.

Built in 1882 as a school-ship to train seamen in Denmark, the Joseph Conrad was named the Georg Stage until 1935 when a replacement was built. The ship was put up for sale and Villiers bought her for a little more than her value as scrap. She was a very small ship constructed from wrought iron with a rig from earlier times, having single topsails and topgallant sails. Villiers renamed her the Joseph Conrad after the famous author who had been a seaman and risen to command in sailing ships.

Villiers planned to make a circumnavigation in the Joseph Conrad but had little money remaining after buying her. He then had to find financial supporters, a sufficient number of experienced seamen who

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

would make the voyage without pay, and others who would pay for the experience. The voyage began at Harwich, UK, in October 1934, and after crossing the Atlantic to New York Villiers continued on to Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town and across the Indian Ocean to Bali. After Bali there was a visit to the Trobriand Islands and Sydney before the ship arrived in Port Phillip.

The Joseph Conrad remained at Williamstown until the end of January before going on to New Zealand and Tahiti. She then rounded Cape Horn to New York where Villiers was forced to sell her, as he was almost bankrupt. She had sailed more than 100,000km during the two years of the voyage. Villiers later wrote a successful account of the voyage in his book The Cruise of the Conrad. The Joseph Conrad is still afloat today at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, US. 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.

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29 )

Designs that connect with the natural world With full regard to sustainable practices and generational design, Vibe Design Group has long embraced biophilic design principles that seek connection with the natural world, embracing a human desire to feel linked to the environment and in turn enhancing our daily living experiences.

Vibe Design Group prides itself on understanding the natural rhythms of a place and identifying how to marry these opportunities with the personality of the occupants for a completely fluid home design.

( 30 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

With the design studio based on the Mornington Peninsula, designers Michael and Kathryn combine more than 30 years of experience in handling the many decisions that present within the design process, with directional design thinking and a strong structural knowledge that sees the built reality as per the presented design.

While Vibe Design Group takes great inspiration from the calmness and balance that presents in modernist and mid-century architecture, its portfolio of residential design work and interior design and styling is unique to each client’s intent and the overall creative vision – although commonly it’s key that each project speaks to its natural surrounds.

Biophilia is a philosophy rather than a ‘style’ and it is at the core of what Vibe Design Group believes in. It

may be capturing an indirect reflected view, or a raised building element appearing to float gently above the land. Our homes are the most significant places in which we spend our time, and when a house design truly connects with its surrounds it feels like it belongs to the landscape.

VIBE DESIGN GROUP A: 29/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington T: 5975 8288 W: vibedesign.com.au E: info@vibedesign.com.au FB: vibedesigngroup INSTA: vibedesigngroup mornington PENINSULA Magazine

PROOF

Inspired by modernist architecture and biophilic design principles, Vibe Design Group are an award-winning residential building design and interior design studio based on the Mornington Peninsula.

www.vibedesign.com.au

P. 5975 8288

IG vibedesigngroup

Rob Irvin, right, with fellow puppeteer Chris Elkington and the cast of Melbourne Puppet Kerfuffle.

From puppies to puppets

Rob Irvin’s face may be familiar to Peninsula pet-owners after his 20-year career as a veterinarian at clinics in Hastings, Mount Eliza and Mornington.

Listeners to 89.9The Light might recall hearing him as ‘Dr Rob’, the radio station’s past resident vet. Rob’s love of animals has always been obvious. But in early 2021, as a competitor on ABC TV’s Hard Quiz, Rob revealed his other passion: puppets.

Demonstrating expert knowledge of Jim Henson, Rob won the episode in which he featured, the result coming as little surprise to family who have always known Rob’s admiration of The Muppets’ creator.

( 34 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Growing up in country NSW, Rob would give his soft toys different names, personalities and silly voices, using them to stage puppet shows for his own entertainment or with family as a captive audience.

Continuing into adulthood, Rob’s reputation for making others laugh using his vocal talents led to a friend casually passing him a puppet one day with the suggestion: “You should have a go at this; I reckon you’d be good at it.”

Rob’s enthusiasm for puppetry was further ignited when two of his children attended a series of puppeteering workshops. Given an opportunity to chat with the puppeteer Chris Elkington, Rob found they had much in common, both being passionate puppeteers and fathers. From this connection, the course of Rob’s working life would change. In November 2021, the two men combined their talents to form Melbourne Puppet Kerfuffle in Tyabb, delivering educational and entertaining puppet shows at kindergartens, libraries and primary schools.

After finishing up in veterinary practice, Rob worked part-time in a school for children on the autism spectrum. When they join to consider characters and storylines for Puppet Kerfuffle, Rob’s previous experience working with neuro-diverse kids, together with Chris’s background as a qualified teacher, informs the process. After lockdown, the pair have toured Victorian schools performing a show about resilience.

With children struggling on return to school, discussion of the topic was timely.

Able to communicate serious messages in an engaging way, Rob says children listen to puppets differently than to adults. With this in mind, parents and teachers will be pleased to learn Puppet Kerfuffle is touring the Reboot’s Cyber Safety Show this year, presenting puppets acting out scenarios about how to be safe online. To learn more, visit puppetkerfuffle.com; for direct inquiries about school shows and puppet performance workshops, email: melbournepuppetkerfuffle@gmail.com DANIELLE DAVEY mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Kathleen’s inspiring journey from childhood hardship to triumph Mornington Peninsula resident Kathleen Frances speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about writing Echidna in a Suitcase, a powerful memoir of resilience, trauma and her unwavering spirit.

What inspired the title of your memoir?

When I started writing this book, a childhood experience kept popping into my head, so this became the title.

Did the process of writing your memoir during lockdown in Victoria serve as a form of therapy for you?

My laptop became my friend during the long lockdowns.

A few times I was told a book requires skill, knowledge and great punctuation. Yes, this is true. You also need a story worthy to tell. It’s an emotional investment pouring your every memory or thought out on paper.

It takes courage. I had to lean into some honesty, then leave behind any unwanted emotional baggage, making room for new experiences and, after lockdown, lots of travelling. I have travelled to four different states and drove to places I needed to see, then I’m going back to Italy next year.

The book covers your experiences of Catholic institutional life as an infant. How did you navigate the challenges imposed by this environment?

As a baby growing up in an abnormal environment, I had nothing to compare it to, no way to know it was different. Children navigate through innocent eyes.

( 36 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

These experiences have a profound impact as an adult, often very unhealthy side effects, with trust issues being No.1. The latest apology will be by the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allen, at Parliament House in Melbourne to the Forgotten Australians. This is earmarked for 2024.

Tell us about the significance of the ancestral twine mentioned in the book and how it guided you to the man you had been searching for.

My ancestral twine has been a very spiritual experience; I had repeated dreams up until recently of a lady and being in her home. I now realise it was my Italian grandmother. I found the other half of myself, my father.

The resemblance is uncanny. My grandson will start school next year learning both English and Italian. We as a family are embracing generations of our lost culture.

We are all learning a second language. Cooking and gardening are a big part of this. I have a cooking class with my family; cannoli, pizza dough, passata and Italian sausages. My father and I spend our time talking and laughing. He cannot imagine life without us, and we cannot fathom life without his warmth.

How do nature and family contribute to your joy and optimism?

My garden is my special place. I’m never really alone; I have kept many chickens over 38 years now. Growing flowers is my passion; I try to have something coming up every few weeks. As a teenager I was named The Flower Thief by a funny lady. “I cannot grow a flower with you around!” she would say. This is the title of my next book.

For more information, visit www.kathleenfrances.com.au

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Happiness comes First at Mornington Library The Mornington Library Café has reopened with a new tenant, HappinessFirst, a social enterprise that creates a positive impact through meaningful and accessible employment, empowering individuals to showcase their skills and talents.

HappinessFirst fosters a safe, inclusive and joyful space that’s open to all. Good coffee and affordable treats are served with smiles and genuine hospitality by staff passionate about meaningful employment.

So take a seat, enjoy a good book and even better company, work or study remotely using the library’s free Wi-Fi and indulge in a delicious treat.

The Mornington Library Café is open Monday to Saturday from 9am-2pm. To find out more about the café, including what’s on offer, visit www. ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au/librarycafe, and for more information regarding HappinessFirst, go to www.happinessfirst.com.au

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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37 )

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Riders saddle up for a month of championships Boneo Park Equestrian Centre this month Victorian plays host to a range of exciting horse riding The Youth Dressage Championship on events spectators are welcome to attend.

January 11-14 is the event marked firmly on Dana Krause’s calendar.

The 22-year-old Baxter rider has been involved in the championship for nearly half her life.

Photo: James Abernathy Photography Joined every year by her beautiful horse Taittinger VDS, Dana has risen from the lowest competition level on entry at age 10 to Grand Prix level, the highest class, this year. She has a second horse entering this month’s championship, hoping to replicate the success achieved with Taittinger VDS. It’s not just as a rider that Dana will be taking part in the youth dressage, but as a judge too. In 2017, Dana became one of the youngest EA dressage judges in Australia.

Designed to allow riders 25 and under the opportunity to exhibit their riding at competition level, Dana fondly recalls her experience at the youth dressage championship. A lovely camaraderie is displayed between young competitors, cheering each other on from the sidelines. The colourful spectacle of the pas de deux, a section of the event where riders dress in themed costumes, is always a crowd favourite.

It’s a family-friendly atmosphere, with stalls dotted in marquees across the grounds and grab-and-go treats available at Boneo Park’s café. If a sit-down meal is preferred, visitors can book ahead to enjoy a seasonal menu of local produce at onsite restaurant Arilla.

The fun continues beyond the Victorian Youth Dressage Championship. On January 20-21, the Boneo Park Summer Dressage Championship takes place, while from January 26-28 spectators can enjoy the thrills of the Wetlands Day Jumping Championship. Visit boneopark.com.au to learn more.

Photo: Tanika Chapman Photography

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( 40 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Just $20 per book at most newsagents and bookstores from Ivanhoe to Crib Point For stockists or to order online go to www.eatdrinkmp.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Unlocking the puzzle: diagnosing ADHD in adults Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is usually associated with childhood, but it often goes undiagnosed in many adults. In fact, diagnosing ADHD in adults has become a crucial aspect of mental health awareness. Recognising the symptoms in adults can be challenging due to the subtlety of their manifestation, but it is a key step towards understanding and managing this neurodivergent disorder.

Unlike in childhood, where hyperactivity is frequently a prominent feature, adult ADHD can manifest more discreetly. ADHD coach Meghann Birks said: “One of the symptoms of ADHD is ‘time blindness’, which can manifest as not being able to ‘feel time’, difficulty managing tasks and sequencing, remembering to schedule time for things like driving, trouble estimating how long things will take, and arriving late or early for almost everything. Due to problems producing, accessing and/or utilising dopamine, adults may also feel stuck in procrastination, have a hard time starting and/or completing tasks, and suffer from disrupted sleep patterns.”

It's important to recognise that ADHD in adults can significantly affect many aspects of life, including work performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Diagnosis is the first step, but there are many things you can do to manage ADHD in adulthood. “ADHD is highly individualised, and can be influenced by trauma, hormones, lifestyle factors and comorbidities,” Meghann said. She recommends you find an experienced practitioner who understands your own unique flavour of ADHD and together create a plan to move forward that best suits your own needs.

As awareness grows, destigmatising adult ADHD is crucial. By shedding light on the complexities of adults living with ADHD, we pave the way for a more compassionate and informed approach to mental health in our communities.

AMY CAMPION

Zeta’s incredible zest for life

Probus Club of Flinders member Zeta Newbound got the surprise of her long life when the club hosted a This Is Your Life presentation and lunch recently to celebrate her 100th birthday. Eighty-five of her fellow club members kept their plans secret – to Zeta’s amazement and delight.

Zeta was born on October 7, 1923, in the UK while her Australian parents – Meta, a professional violinist, and Arthur, a dental technician – were working there. The family moved to Canada the next year and lived in Toronto for a decade, returning to Australia when she was 11.

Zeta met Max Newbound while she was studying at Melbourne Teachers’ College. They were married in 1952 and had a daughter, Peta, and a son, Michael.

Zeta was a committee member and captain of pennant at Flinders Golf Club; she is also a member of the Flinders Community Association and the Flinders District Historical Society. Overseas travel and caravan trips around Australia have been among her greatest joys, and after Max’s death in 1992 she continued driving her campervan to Queensland each winter. She still lives alone, shops, cooks, walks daily around Flinders without the aid of a walking stick, drives her manual car, and attends happy hours, dinners and discussion groups.

Zeta describes washing machines as “the best invention”, but says she gets “really disappointed with the way we are messing up the world. We need to use more common sense”.

Congratulations, Zeta!

( 42 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Weekly summer recycling starts again Summer on the Mornington Peninsula means more time spent with family and friends, and with that often comes extra recycling. To help, Mornington Peninsula Shire is now collecting household recycling bins every week until January 26.

Recycling bins will be collected weekly on the same day as the usual fortnightly recycling service, including public holidays. Residents are reminded to only place accepted items in their bin: paper, cardboard, newspaper and magazines; glass bottles and jars; hard plastic containers; milk and juice cartons; aluminium and steel cans, foil trays, empty aerosols and aluminium foil scrunched into a ball; and plastic bottles. Bottles, cans and other beverage containers with the 10c refund mark can be taken to a Return-it collection point for a refund.

Items that can’t be recycled include hazardous materials such as batteries, gas bottles, oil, vapes and paint; plastic bags and soft plastic packaging; food or garden waste; cutlery, crockery and cooking utensils; clothing, linen, shoes and toys; garden appliances and equipment; nappies; and polystyrene.

Extra recycling or large items that can’t fit in the recycling bin can be dropped off at a resource recovery centre free of charge. Other household recyclables can also be disposed of at the shire’s recovery stations or recycling trailer.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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43 )

Logo’s splash-tastic adventures

peninsula

On the foreshore at Seaford, there’s one energetic duo that stands out from the rest: Josh Tulloch and his spirited canine companion named Logo.

This seven-year-old kelpie-collie cross is not just your average dog; he's a swimming sensation, clocking up to 2km at a time, leaving everyone amazed and a little out of breath. "He swims with me in the bay just in front of me, never letting me pass,” Josh said. “Logo is a very fast swimmer, and it’s not easy to keep up with him."

Logo has become something of a local legend, and Josh couldn't be prouder of his furry friend. “I’m a graphic designer, and I always thought ‘Logo’ was a great name for a dog," he said.

Josh's journey with Logo began when he acquired him as a three-month-old pup from a farmer in Wonthaggi.

From that moment on, Logo seamlessly integrated into Josh's daily adventures. One of Logo's distinctive quirks is his love of ball games. “Ball is life for Logo, and when we watch a game of cricket at the local park, he is doing all he can to refrain from running on to the field and grabbing that ball. He likes to play soccer; he kicks the ball back to you with surprising accuracy."

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But Logo's athleticism doesn't stop there – he's also an accomplished tree climber, effortlessly scaling 2.4m up

trees in the park.

Despite Logo's playful antics, he is a well-mannered and devoted companion.

"He is with me every day," Josh said, emphasising the close bond they share despite Logo's occasional bouts of flatulence in the office.

One of Josh’s fondest memories involves Logo being featured in a coffee table book titled Immerse, showcasing bayside swimmers. Josh proudly recounts how strangers recognise Logo from the book, adding a touch of unexpected fame to their daily outings.

Describing Logo's personality, Josh highlights his intelligence, gentle manner, high energy levels, and competitive streak: “Logo will also not let anyone win a race," he laughed. His advice for fellow dog owners is the importance of off-leash training, especially for working breeds such kelpies and collies. Josh also believes in providing plenty of mental stimulation along with physical exercise.

Together, Josh and Logo embody the perfect mix of fun, athleticism, and an unbreakable human-canine connection. Keep an eye out for them next time you’re strolling the beach in Seaford.

SARAH HALFPENNY

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Large range of fresh frozen bones, toys and accessories for dogs, cats, birds, and small animals.

Online order subscription service available - delivered direct to your door! Check out our website for delivery times in your area.

Shop online or instore | www.petfoodsdelivered.com.au | 3a Apsley Pl, Seaford | Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm | P: 9786 4603 ( 44 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

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Ripping homes for your dog Dog crate furniture is becoming increasingly popular. Not only does it serve as a comfortable den for your furry friend, it also doubles as a stylish piece of furniture that complements your home décor.

RIPT Furniture’s handcrafted items are perfect for your home or office. The Lone Wolf range is designed for the one and only dog in your life. RIPT offers standard

size options between 840mm-1200mm to suit any size dog. RRP from $620.

The Wolf Pack range is designed to accommodate two dogs, regardless of size. It comes standard at 1540mm2040mm with two door entries. RRP from $1070.

Don’t forget to customise your crates with the add-on collection. RIPT also offers full custom builds (POA). Explore the entire range at www. riptfurniture.com.au RIPT FURNITURE A: 28 Quarry Rd, Langwarrin T: 0435 988 882 W: www.riptfurniture.com.au FB: RIPTfurniture INSTA: riptfurniture

0435 988 882

info@riptfurniture.com.au www.riptfurniture.com.au

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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45 )

education and parenting

Make friends and have fun while you learn Italian Learning a new language might appear a daunting prospect to some, but that’s only because they haven’t met MariaAntonia Campagna. Maria-Antonia is a secondary school teacher and author who, having published a series of Italian conversational books, began conducting Italian classes at D.O.C Mornington in 2021.

Affectionately known as Caffè e Conversazione, the classes are a beginner’s guide to conversational Italian.

They have an emphasis on conversational dialogues and role-playing where participants have the possibility

CAFFÉ E CONVERSAZIONE AT

D.O.C. MORNINGTON

to practise language concepts learnt in a fun and relaxed manner. They allow for language immersion, social interaction, friendly banter and hopefully a good coffee in a welcoming environment.

Bruce and Libby said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed Maria-Antonia’s Italian classes for 18 months. They are instructive, well organised, and happy. We’ve made new friends.”

“Caffè e Conversazione – Have fun with IT.” are the texts used in Maria-Antonia’s conversational classes, and over the past two years her lessons have gathered momentum, creating quite a buzz around town with many residents taking part. The response from students has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic.

“I continue to enjoy the pace of the program and the energy of our group,” Majella said. “Maria-Antonia is excellent at building connection with her students and encouraging everyone to improve.”

“Attending Caffè e Conversazione classes with MariaAntonia is the highlight of my week,” said Robyn. “The classes are lively, fun and very engaging. My Italian language ability grows weekly, thanks to a great teacher.

My classmates have become firm friends too. Highly recommended.”

Kate said: “The small and friendly group, the atmospheric space at D.O.C, our wonderful teacher. It is a fun environment, conducive to learning.”

For more information on Maria-Antonia’s classes at D.O.C Mornington or to purchase a copy of her books, email: ma7634@bigpond.com GRUPPO IT. T: 0409 622 476

Commencing late January 2024 Enquiries - email: ma7634@bigpond.com

Italian conversational classes ...over coffee ( 46 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

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Enrol Now Committed to continuous quality care and improvement to ensure a full balanced development for each child in our expansive, natural learning environment.

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OPENING SOON!

Mt. Terrasse

Rahona Valley

Live music of Mt. Terrasse

Good vibes, laughter and enduring memories

Blessed with all-day sun and with plenty of outdoor seating, there’s no better place to socialise, enjoy delicious dining, drinks, and ‘people watch’ than Mt. Terrasse on the central corner, right in the heart of Mount Eliza Village. Mt. Terrasse now has regular live music out on the terrace.

Tapas and drink selections have been excellently and deliberately paired for taste to go hand in hand, offering variety and experience.

Feel like a cocktail, tap beer or glass of vino and listening to some great live music while relaxing in the sun as you watch the world go by? Follow Mt. Terrasse on Instagram to keep up to date with their live music offerings.

MT. TERRASSE A: Shop 2/87 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza FB: MT. Terrasse INSTA: mt.terrasse

This season, unwind in the intimate cellar door at Rahona Valley amid leather couches and wine barrels or under the outdoor umbrellas where you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of such crowd favourites as Rob Papp, Dave Campbell, and Lady & The Tramp, as well as upcoming artists such as Tig and CC Dewar.

Transforming into a snug concert haven, Rahona Valley invites you to revel in the fusion of music, clinking glasses and contagious laughter. Indulge in exquisite wines, savour local cheeses and other delectable bites, and let the melodies create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. Round up your friends for a leisurely summer soirée.

At Rahona Valley, we're not just offering wine; we're curating an experience filled with good vibes, laughter and enduring memories.

RAHONA VALLEY A: 3/48 Collins Rd, Dromana M: 0417323765 W: www.rahonavalley.com.au

Hickinbotham of Dromana Rock and classic blues Hickinbotham is all about great wine, beer, fresh local food and live music. With a casual atmosphere, rustic surrounds and stunning views, it is a destination where relaxation and good times come easily.

From 6-11pm on Saturday, January 13, the Wizard, Andrew Farrell, will be joined by Dave ‘Oz’ McMillan, Garry Sanders and Keith Annable for an evening of classic blues and R&B. Dinner is from 6pm, the show starts at 7.30pm. $30 pp for show.

Then Melbourne guitar legend Phil Para, pictured, is putting on a special show on Friday, January 19. Accompanied by his multi-instrumentalist son Denzil on bass, guitar and vocals, Phil will be road-testing a handful of new originals alongside some old favourites. Dinner is from 6pm, the show starts at 7.30pm. $20 pp for show.

Bookings are essential for both shows.

HICKINBOTHAM OF DROMANA A: 194 Nepean Highway, Dromana T: 5981 0355 W: www.hickinbotham.biz FB: hickinbotham.biz INSTA: hickinbotham_dromana E: events@hickinbotham.biz

Frankston Arts Centre FAC’s live line-up is hard to beat Frankston Arts Centre is bringing the best of live music right to your doorstep in 2024.

With Missy Higgins, The Black Sorrows, Emma Donovan, 1927, Boom Crash Opera, the Southern Sons, Chocolate Starfish, Kate Miller-Heidke and tributes to all the greats including Lennon and McCartney, the Eagles, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Madonna, The Beach Boys, Billy Joel, Elton John and more, every taste is catered for.

For a more intimate experience, Cube 37 is your chance to get up close and personal with the performers including bluesman Dave Hole, guitarist Daniel Champagne, and a special tribute to Leonard Cohen featuring Henry Wagons and Rebecca Barnard.

Try FAC’s dinner and show series in the function centre, with bands such as BigCityBeat playing the best of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, or a special Beatles tribute where you get to feature on the dance floor.

This is the year to treat yourself.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston T: 9784 1060 W: www.thefac.com.au FB: FrankstonArtsCentre INSTA: the_fac

Peninsula Beer Garden

JimmyRum Distillery

Amazing music just par for the course

Summer vibes at JimmyRum

At Peninsula Beer Garden we love our live music as much as we love our locals. Not only do we enjoy showing off the beloved local breweries, distillers, wineries and specialty producers on the Peninsula, but we love showcasing our amazing local live musicians too.

From now until the end of January we will be open every day with the best free live music around for all the locals and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re wanting to relax after your game of golf on our beautiful, architect-designed 18-hole public golf course, Eagle Ridge, and soak up the sun, gorgeous vistas and the good vibes in any one of the many locations across our venue, or if you’re wanting an idyllic setting for an easy afternoon of good food, good drinks and good tunes, Peninsula Beer Garden is the place for you.

Gig guide available at www.peninsulabeergarden.com.au

Summer weekends at JimmyRum are filled with great chilled tunes from our musicians bringing us live music every Saturday and Sunday. It’s the perfect way to spend time with friends and family listening to some great music from our range of guest musicians through January.

We have quite the line-up for our Saturday Sunset DJ sets from 4-7pm, with Chokl8 Fond4nt on January 6, CHICO on January 13, Darragh Fitz on January 20, and DJ Sophie Joy on January 27.

See out the weekend with our Sunday Sessions from 1.30-4.30pm, featuring Dave Campbell on January 7, Marcelle on January 14, Pete Miller on January 21, and Sam O'Connell on January 28.

Bookings are recommended and walk-ins are always welcome. Visit our website for more details or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

PENINSULA BEER GARDEN A: 215 Browns Rd, Boneo W: www.peninsulabeergarden.com.au FB: peninsulabeergarden INSTA: peninsulabeergarden

JIMMYRUM DISTILLERY A: 6 Brasser Ave, Dromana E: info@jimmyrum.com.au W: www.jimmyrum.com.au FB: jimmyrumdistillery INSTA: jimmyrumdistillery

Soundbar

Tom Katz

Live music mecca on the southern Peninsula

Where summer comes alive

Tom Katz at the Sorrento RSL was a hugely popular music venue with a long history, The Soundbar has been a staple of the where such heavyweights in the past as AC/ Peninsula’s live music scene for more than DC, Masters Apprentices, and Max Merritt & a decade. It was recently refurbished and revamped to become the best dive bar on the the Meteors played to packed houses. It has a long association with live music.

‘Ninch, an inclusive environment oozing with atmosphere.

Changing the program in January 2018, the RSL began putting on weekly live Sunday and With a strong focus on live original music Saturday music shows promoting local talent. featuring the best local talent and an epic Then a year later the Sorrento-Portsea RSL upgraded sound system, Soundbar installed reinvigorated the Tom Katz brand name from a massive outdoor deck area right across the ‘70s featuring such performers as Russell the road from the bay. When live music isn't Morris, Brian Cadd and Normie Rowe. playing, it’s a top hangout and great way to spend the afternoon sipping awesome Now a new stage and beer garden have been cocktails and people-watching. added, and construction of a new outdoor undercover entertainment area has recently The great pub dinner menu focuses on local been completed along with a billiard room. produce with burgers and parmas that are next level. Soundbar also recently opened for So head along to Tom Katz every Sunday lunch with mouthwatering hoagies. from 4-7pm and support live music on the Peninsula while having a rockin’ good time.

With open mic nights each Wednesday and Thursday, bands on Friday and Saturday Always remembering, honouring our veterans, nights, karaoke on Sunday arvo and acoustic the Sorrento-Portsea RSL plays a major role in performances every afternoon, Soundbar’s the community. sounding good. It’s open Wednesday to For gigs and ticket sales, go to Sunday noon-late.

TOMKATZ@Sorrento-Portsea RSL SOUNDBAR TOM KATZ A: 1625-1629 Point Nepean Rd, Capel Sound A: 1 Hurley St, Sorrento T: 5903 5970 T: 5984 2886 W: www.capelsoundbar.com.au W: www.tomkatz.com.au FB: soundbarcocktailbar FB: tomkatzlive INSTA: capelsoundbar

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

It’s summer, so whether you are a local or a visitor it is time to unwind and enjoy this stunning part of the world. We might be just an hour’s drive from Melbourne but it feels like a world away. The Mornington Peninsula blends rugged coastlines and rolling hinterland, vibrant seaside towns and sleepy hamlets, cosmopolitan retail experiences and stunning natural beauty to create a holiday experience like no other.

From Western Port to Bass Strait to Port Phillip, the Peninsula is a holidaymaker’s paradise, and whether you’re here to relax and de-stress or looking for adventure, there is something for everyone.

gentle water, while the power of the Southern Ocean draws surfers keen to accept the challenge of taming the mighty breakers. If your passion is fishing, you’ll have no shortage of spots to try your luck. Western Port is home to some of the best fishing around, while the piers of Port Phillip are popular and productive places to drop a line.

Nature has gifted us a truly bountiful playground. There is almost no end to the walking tracks and bike trails that stretch along the coast and criss-cross the hinterland, taking you through mangroves, bush, woodlands and farmland teeming with native flora and fauna and rich in history and Indigenous Culture. There are national and state park trekking paths to take you from Point Nepean through Arthurs Seat, Red Hill and beyond.

Summer sees the water come alive with yachts, jetskis, sailboards and paddleboards, while snorkellers and scuba divers explore the wonderland below the surface. Surf lifesavers patrol many of our beaches to help you enjoy a refreshing swim in safety, and there are world-class aquatic centres if you’d rather cool off with a freshwater dip. Take a guided marine tour and meet our resident dolphins and seals, or enjoy a boardwalk stroll through the wetlands to see some of our myriad bird species.

Our sheltered bays attract young families to sweeping beaches of golden sand and

Picnic on the sand in front of the brightly coloured beach boxes or in one of the scores of shady parks and reserves across the Peninsula. Visit a farmgate and take home some of the best and freshest produce imaginable, or seek out a winery, brewery or distillery and discover why our wines, beers, ciders and spirits are acclaimed as world-beaters.

Whether you play off scratch or struggle to even hit the ball, we have gorgeous golf courses for all abilities – and there’s always mini-golf for the kids. Kick off your shoes and enjoy some barefoot bowls, or dust off that racquet for a quick game of tennis.

You’ll find skate parks from Mount Eliza to Sorrento, horse-riding and mountainbiking trails along beaches and clifftops and through bushland, and adventure parks with flying foxes, mazes, tree surfing, climbing walls and more to challenge you.

If that sounds too fast-paced, wining and dining on the Peninsula is another level.

From quirky cafes to Chef Hat restaurants, your choices of eatery are as varied as the fare – from Aussie pub classics to international cuisine. You could eat out for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day of your stay and you’d barely scratch the surface of what’s available. And your accommodation options are just as varied, from camping grounds to B&Bs, holiday rental houses to 5-star hotels.

With summer festivals, outdoor movies, live music in parks and pubs, historical homesteads, mansions, lighthouses and railways, you’ll never be at a loss for something to do. Art galleries abound, outdoor markets bubble with energy, hot springs revitalise and gondolas soar.

The opportunities for relaxation, fun in the sun and celebration are endless – and our special 36-page Summer Holiday feature will show you how to make the most of your time this summer.

It’s time to treat yourself to a holiday to remember on the Mornington Peninsula.

We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land, the Bunurong and Boonwurrung people of the Kulin nation, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today.

( 50 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

1.Gift Vouchers may be used for payment of accommodation only at Getaway Property Management properties. 2. Gift Vouchers are for use only on a booking with a minimum stay of three nights or more and are subject to the availability of the requested property. 3. You must notify the Getaway Property Management at the time of your booking that you are redeeming you Gift Voucher.

4. Gift Vouchers are NOT transferable. 5. The Gift Voucher must be presented at check-in. 6. Gift Vouchers may not be redeemed for cash. 7. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, only one voucher is redeemable per booking. 8. Gift Vouchers are not replaceable if lost, stolen, or destroyed, photocopied, or altered in any way and will not be accepted by Getaway Property Management or be otherwise redeemable. 9. Not redeemable during peak or super peak season. Valid until 06/12/24.

Silvers Circus returns to excite and delight It wouldn’t be summer on the Peninsula without Silvers Circus, and this family favourite returns to the Bata shoe factory from January 3-February 4 with something for all ages.

As well as the timeless Globe of Death and Wonder Dogs, Silvers is bringing you new and exciting acts. Aerial Angels Kyra and Naomi will leave you in awe with their rotating dance and acrobatics high on the carousel, and after two years the audacious Wheel of Steel is back with the daring Dominik Gasser and Merwin Garcia.

Silvers is also proud to announce the one and only Mr Walison Muh – fresh from appearing on Australia’s Got Talent – is joining the team as the new ringmaster comic. Walison’s interactive style of comedy is sure to have you convulsing with laughter.

The kids will adore Fluffy and Spike, Silvers’ two dinosaurs, who

will appear live on stage under the mighty big top, while older audience members will appreciate the launch of Wunderbar, giving adults access to a lounge area and outdoor beer garden where they can enjoy a range of Mornington Peninsula Brewery beers and a selection of quality Australian wines throughout the show.

Finally, the Fly Factory will give you the chance to try your hand at the flying trapeze. Steen and the crew will be setting up their outdoor rig at Silvers and offering lessons for those who’d like to give it a go. Log on to www.flyfactory.com.au for details.

Whether it’s a date night, a family affair or grandparents wanting to spoil the kids, Silvers Circus is the entertainment destination for you. Ringside tickets are $60 for adults and $50 for children; elevated front view tickets are $50/$40; and elevated side view tickets are $35/$25. With high demand expected over the holidays, Silvers strongly advises booking at Ticketmaster or phone 0413 880 044 to avoid disappointment.

Booking fees apply.

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

( 52 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

info@wildelementsco.com | P. 5981 0249 | www.wildelementsco.com Shop 2, 3295 Point Nepean Rd, Sorrento mornington PENINSULA Magazine

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Photo: Brian Geach

Theatrical delights at your doorstep Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Missy Higgins, Sydney Theatre Company, Kate Miller-Heidke, The Black Sorrows, and Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap are all coming to Frankston Arts Centre in 2024. FAC has something for everyone, with comedy, children’s shows, circus, drama and opera underlining a stunning year of entertainment.

doorstep of the Mornington Peninsula for 27 years.

With more than 300 performances a year, the 800seat theatre and gallery venue is one of the busiest in Victoria.

Presenting the best touring productions by leading national performance companies and artists, FAC has been inspiring creative experiences right on the

Check out upcoming shows and exhibitions at thefac. com.au. Hear first about major artists visiting Frankston by subscribing to e-news.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

The Cube 37 and Foyer gallery spaces feature an inspiring program of works by emerging and established artists, including immersive installations, digital projections, photography and more.

If you have never visited Frankston Arts Centre, make it your next destination for a date night or girls’ night out.

See your favourite big-name artists at a venue close by, and save money on fuel and tickets.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston T: 9784 1060 W: www.thefac.com.au FB: FrankstonArtsCentre INSTA: the_fac

www.mpmag.com.au

55 )

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

A summer playground awaits in Frankston City Get ready to experience a vibrant summer in Frankston City, where a plethora of events are going to light up your sun-filled days. Live music says it all, from the electrifying Lovebirds headlining Reminisce Decade of House in January to the ultimate Waterfront Festival hosting Touch Sensitive in February.

FRANKSTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE A: 7N Pier Promenade, Frankston T: 1300 322 842 W: www.discoverfrankston.com FB: discoverfrankston INSTA: discoverfrankston

With live music festivals keeping the summer alive, there will never be a better time to indulge your cravings in the city’s evolving rooftop and waterfront bar scene or embark on a journey along the Beer and Spirits Trail exploring a range of boutique beer, wines and spirits. Or for a new culinary adventure, make your way to Ordain Bistro and Bar, nestled metres from the idyllic Seaford foreshore on Station St. As the city comes to life with twinkling fairy lights and music fills the air, embrace the new energy that defines this summer in Frankton City. Whether you’re drawn to nature, seeking a refreshing swim or simply yearning for relaxation, this coastal gem has it all.

Beyond summer the revelry continues with Big Picture Fest in March, Kubik in April and South Side Festival in May, ensuring there’s always something on the horizon to captivate you.

All these events are going to leave you wanting more, so download your event guide at https://bit.ly/3RfaV8N and get ready for a time of excitement and exploration.

( 56 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Little Beauty Market Fourth Saturday of the month 9am–2pm*

What’s on Frankston City

September–March

YOUR 23/24 EVENT GUIDE

Sunset Twilight Market Third Friday of the month

Beauty Park, Frankston

5–9pm December and January Frankston Waterfront

DEC Download a copy

Lucky Day Out NYE

DEC

Sunday 31 December 6pm–Late Kinetic Stadium, Frankston

2023

2023

JAN

2024 Reminisce Decades

FEB

2024

Friday 26 January 2-10pm Kinetic Stadium, Frankston

Waterfront Festival

Ventana

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February

Frankston Waterfront

In conjuction with the Waterfront Festival

Frankston Waterfront

MAR 2024

Stellar Short Film Festival

Big Picture Fest + Block Party Big Picture Fest 18–24 March

Saturday 2 March 5-11pm

Block Party Friday 22 March

McClelland, Langwarrin

Frankston City Centre

Mayor’s Party In the Park Sunday 7 April 10am-2pm Cruden Farm, Langwarrin

KUBIK

APR

2024

5–20 April McCombs Reserve Frankston Waterfront

South Side Festival

MAY

2024

1300 322 322 Sign up for event reminders whatsonfrankston.com or visit discoverfrankston.com discoverfrankston

Friday 10–Sunday 19 May Frankston Arts Precinct and surrounds

EVERY EVENT

*Check website for more information including programming details, entry fees and conditions and event times. Subject to change without notice.

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Stay, play and dine at Peppers Moonah Links Resort Considered one of Australia’s most unique leisure resorts, with two 18hole championship golf courses, luxury accommodation and an a la carte restaurant, Peppers Moonah Links Resort is the perfect place for couples, families and golf enthusiasts to escape this summer.

The resort’s 70 deluxe rooms and suites all have balconies or terraces overlooking the stunning golf courses or central putting green. Each room features natural tones, LCD flat-screen televisions with premium Foxtel, iPod docks and luxury branded Appelles guest amenities. The a la carte restaurant Pebbles highlights the very best of Mornington Peninsula produce, with an exquisite summer menu designed to share. The menu draws inspiration from seasonal and sustainable

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

produce, including freshly picked herbs and vegetables from the kitchen garden.

The Open Course is a true test of abilities, having been designed for the 2003 Australian Open. In contrast, the Legends Course is a more friendly golfing experience for players of all ages and skill levels. Non-golfers are also well catered for and do not need to venture far from the resort to experience the very best that the Peninsula has to offer, with Peninsula Hot Springs, Cups Estate Winery and St Andrews Beach Brewery all conveniently located next door.

PEPPERS MOONAH LINKS RESORT A: 55 Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal T: 5988 2000 W: www.moonahlinks.com.au FB: moonahlinksresort INSTA: moonahlinks

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59 )

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN MAIN STREET MORNINGTON Handmade | Home Grown | Home Baked 9am - 3pm

www.mainstreetmornington.com.au mainstreetmarketmornington x x

( 60 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Immerse yourself in seaside luxury at Hotel Sorrento The Mornington Peninsula’s iconic Hotel Sorrento has redefined seaside luxury in Australia this summer with a major expansion unveiling a 30m pool, tranquil day spa and 13 new luxury suites featuring Jardan furniture and Hunter Lab amenity range.

The long-term vision of the Pitt family – Rob and Anne, alongside their children Bridget, Myles and Marcus – has been realised with the transformation designed by Six Degrees Architecture and inspired by the Peninsula's natural beauty. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame

panoramic views of the lush landscape, while outdoor marble baths create a space to relax and unwind.

and ice therapies, the spa invites guests to immerse themselves in the ultimate relaxation experience.

The 30m pool and terrace, set within an oasis of travertine walls and verdant olive trees, will offer guests unparalleled vistas over sparkling Port Phillip and the perfect opportunity to laze the day away while enjoying an experience reminiscent of a mineral-soaked holiday in the Mediterranean.

With its five separate bars, two signature restaurants, private dining areas and conference facilities, Hotel Sorrento has evolved into a world-class hospitality destination while preserving the rich history and family hospitality for which it is renowned.

Steps away from the pool terrace via a Japaneseinspired courtyard is Marlo Spa. Renowned for more than 30 years of expertise and local roots, Marlo Spa has collaborated with Hotel Sorrento to craft a bespoke Ayurvedic treatment menu catering to all types of guests. From soothing massages to rejuvenating fire

HOTEL SORRENTO A: 5-15 Hotham Rd, Sorrento T: 5984 8000 W: www.hotelsorrento.com.au FB: HotelSorrentoVIC INSTA: hotelsorrento_

For bookings, visit www.hotelsorrento.com.au

P. 5984 8000

5-15 Hotham Rd, Sorrento www.hotelsorrento.com.au Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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11AM - 4PM General Session 6PM - 7PM Intermediate Speed 7PM - 8PM Adults Learn-2-Sk8

TUESDAYS

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PLUS EXTRA SUMMER NIGHTS SESSIONS ON A V E BI SELECTED TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS PLUS EXTRA SUMMER NIGHTS SESSIONS ON SELECTED

T U E S D A Y S , T H U R S D A Y S & S U N D A Y S (see flyer for details) Sk8house is CLOSED Sk8house is CLOSED ChristmasDay Day, Boxing DayYears & New Years Christmas Day, Boxing & New DayDay

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9AM - 10AM Beginner Speed 10AM - 11AM All Ages Learn-2-Sk8 11AM - 1PM General Session s n Bronze ClassCheap Sk8 Sess 1PM - 2PM SATURDAYS essio ions General S OUPGeneral Session 2PMGR - 5PM PASS Freeskating Class 5PM - 6PM General Session 6PM - 9PM

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ADDED BONUS:

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SCAN TO BOOK NOW!

Visit our website

3/2 Amayla Cres Carrum Downs Vic 3201 P: 03 9773 6799 E: info@sk8house.com.au Find us on social media!

( 62 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Take a break from the ordinary and let the good times roll at Sk8house this summer. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a unique way to spend your day, Sk8house guarantees an adventure on wheels. Dive into a world of high-energy thrills and smooth moves as you lace up your skates and hit the rink.

Our spacious rink with vibrant lights and a pumping sound system creates the perfect atmosphere for unforgettable moments. Bring your friends and family for a day of laughter, music and shared joy. Sk8house is not just a skating venue; it’s a community hub where you can make summer memories that will last a lifetime.

And value for money – if you’re wanting to tire out the kids with as little out of your pocket as possible, there is no other local entertainment venue this summer where you can enjoy up to five hours of entertainment for $16. Or better yet, get a family or group pass for four for $50. There are even more savings to be had with a Super Summer Pass.

Visit www.sk8house.com.au for all session and class details and visit the online Sk8shop to buy your Summer Pass.

SK8HOUSE A: 3/2 Amayla Cres, Carrum Downs T: 9773 6799 W: www.sk8house.com.au E: info@sk8house.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

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.

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?

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.

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

ATTENTION HOLIDAY APARTMENT OWNERS We’re looking for you and your holiday apartment!

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 Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

www.mpmag.com.au

63 )

Fifty-six summers at Michelle-Ann Lois Mitchell and daughter Michelle-Ann have spent 56 summers in beautiful Mornington. It is our absolute favourite time of the year. We enjoy renewing friendships with not only our loyal locals but also visiting holidaymakers and are very grateful for their continued support.

from 10C-24H. No one is left out from being able to experience this luxury high-end brand. Once you have worn Empreinte there will be no turning back.

January is the time to buy a swimsuit, as no one wants to be left out when down at the beach or by the pool. Michelle-Ann caters for sizes 8-28 in bikinis, tankinis and one-pieces. Brands include Jantzen, Togs, Zoggs, Sunseeker, Femme De La Mer, PrimmaDonna, Poolproof and Empreinte, and the highly acclaimed Miraclesuit, which the brand claims will take 10lb off in 10 seconds. Fabric and styling is next-level luxe and is guaranteed to give comfort and confidence.

For more than 20 years our Pink Room has been helping ladies who have experienced breast cancer feel confident and comfortable after surgery.

Michelle-Ann and Sandy feel very privileged to be able to care for and advise these special ladies on what is best for them to get back to feeling great again.

Our Berlei and Triumph bra sale continues.

Experience a bra fitting while on holidays and enjoy a whole new level of feeling comfortable no matter what size you wear.

MICHELLE-ANN BRAS & SWIMWEAR A: 142 Main St, Mornington T: 5973 3649 W. www.michelleann.com.au FB: michelleann.mornington INSTA: michelleann.mornington

Our French brand Empreinte is state-of-the-art next-level glamour and pure luxury. Sizes range

A huge sleepwear range is available. Brands include Schrank, Givoni, Yuu, French Country, summer and winter nighties, PJs and dressing gowns. The very sexy LingaDore is an Italian luxury silky brand for those looking for the ultimate in glamour in sizes 8-24.

We look forward to helping you achieve the perfect bra and swimsuit for 2024. Happy New Year.

Gifts with Individuality

79 Main St, Mornington

5977 0708

www.ideasbythebay.com.au ( 64 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

at

michelle-ann

147 Main St, Mornington | ph: 03 5975 3649 w w w. m i c h e l l e a n n . co m . a u

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Red Hill Show is a fun-filled family day It’s time to mark Saturday, March 9, in your diary for the 2024 Red Hill Show, a full day of activities for the whole family that we would love you to be part of.

Our day includes world-class wood chop events, the famous gumboot throw, apple pie and cake competitions, creative art and photography exhibitions, floral displays, alpaca, sheep and cattle contests, and the dog arena back by popular demand.

The dog agility, dog high scrambles, dog most like its owner, happiest dog and best-dressed dog events are simply not to be missed.

There is so much to see and do, and it’s a terrific day out. There are plenty of rides and entertainment and

( 66 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

they’re all free with gate entry admission.

And if you are arty or crafty or like growing flowers and vegetables, or baking and preserving you can enter our competitions and be part of the fun. You can view our schedule of competitions now at www. redhillshow.com.au. All sorts of cash prizes are available through very generous sponsorships and a ribbon is always on offer – and there is nothing quite like taking home a ribbon: you automatically get bragging rights for at least a few weeks!

RED HILL SHOW A: Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill T: 0432 434 255 W: www.redhillshow.com.au FB: RedHillShowAu INSTA: redhillshow

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Olieve & Olie launches natural Face Oils

Their Restore Face Oil is combined with rich antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. This was specially formulated for mature skin, dry skin or to use as a night-time face oil; however, it’s suitable for all skin types. This natural oil blend has been formulated to combat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to help restore the skin’s foundation after sun damage or moisture loss. It’s all thanks to superb natural ingredients like Bakuchiol, which is considered nature’s retinol and boosts collagen production that will in turn prevent the appearance of fine lines. Olieve & Olie are excited to introduce their revolutionary ingredient Squalene, which is derived from olives. It’s known for its powerful antiageing properties and will help the skin age gracefully.

Protect Face Oil is a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly to reveal a visibly healthy, even, glowing complexion. This lighter blend is recommended for all skin types, in particular oily skin, younger skin or to be used as a daytime face oil. It’s rich in hydration and antioxidant protection. This beauty helps to retain skin moisture while also regulating the balance of oil production, preventing clogged pores, which means it leaves your skin bright, bouncy and balanced. Vitamins and antioxidants nourish the skin while helping form a protective barrier under which skin can balance and normalise thanks to the plant oils that contain omega fatty acids.

Photos by Willow Creative

After much anticipation, Olieve & Olie is thrilled to announce the launch of their new range of Face Oils. With two unique formulas created, Restore and Protect, these natural skincare solutions are free from essential oils, silicones and fragrance.

P. 5982 0992 | www.olieveandolie.com.au | 7/16 Henry Wilson Dve, Rosebud

olieveandolie

ERVILLE M O S Tired of stale tasting supermarket eggs?

Our farm is family owned and managed. We have been producing quality eggs for over 40 years, supplying the public, cafes, restaurants and other businesses on the Peninsula.

Eggs are hand collected 365 days a year so you can be assured you are buying the freshest eggs with the best yolk and flavour from our barn door.

Come and visit our free range hens roaming in their paddock!

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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67 )

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Rediscover that long-lost joy of painting Did you ever paint as a kid?

Of course you did! Do you still paint as an adult? No? Why not? What happened?

Familiar, isn’t it? Life gets in the road and we abandon one of the most joyful means of self-expression. Well, not anymore.

Professional watercolour painter Greg Allen is offering weekly watercolour classes at Sorrento and Rosebud.

Regarded as one of the best watercolour artists and teachers in Australia, Greg will educate you in everything you need to know about what is sometimes regarded as a difficult medium – until it’s broken down and explained clearly. Those who know a little more about watercolour but are hankering to just be better are equally catered for. The class structure will accommodate beginners, intermediate and advanced.

From land and local seascapes through to portraits, wildlife, still-life and cities, you’ll do it all. And if you stay a while, Greg almost guarantees you’ll be a pretty damned good little painter!

Come on, pick up where the child in you left off! Phone 0431 700 624 and join Greg’s exciting new watercolour classes in 2024.

Watercolour Classes On The Peninsula

Join renowned artist & teacher Greg Allen for weekly classes at two great locations for 2024!

Sorrento - $65 Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club 3154 Point Nepean Rd, Sorrento Mondays: 10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

Enrol Now!

P. 0431 700 624 artistgregallen9@gmail.com ( 68 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Capel Sound - $60 Seawinds Community Hub 11 Allambi Ave, Capel Sound Wednesdays: 12pm-2.30pm 3pm-5.30pm mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Premium dining at

Squires Loft Mornington The current owners of Squires Loft Mornington, Siller and Deborah Bello, were regular diners for five years before purchasing the popular steak restaurant in 2020. Being long-term patrons gave them an appreciation of the amazing food Squires Loft has to offer and what guests want when dining.

You’ll appreciate the finer details the couple has invested in to ensure guests enjoy a premium dining experience with a difference. The 5-star fit-out bears testimony to their background as highly regarded restaurant stylists and furniture manufacturers.

Polished wood tables, brass fittings and earthycoloured leather banquettes and tub chairs combine to lend the space a feeling of richness and warmth.

The owners’ research has taken them across the globe – literally and figuratively – including a visit to their daughter in the US to learn the success of the best steak restaurants in New York City.

Thoughtful consideration has gone into every aspect of the business to get the details just right: custommade knives and forks are from Brazil, salt and pepper shakers from the UK, lights are from Germany. You’ll savour the surroundings as much as the delicious menu and their fabulous team will ensure you enjoy every minute.

For sophisticated dining, make your next booking Squires Loft in Mornington.

SQUIRES LOFT MORNINGTON A: 104 Main St, Mornington T: 5976 8482 W: www.squiresloftmornington.com.au FB: squiresloftmorningtonpeninsula INSTA: squiresloftmornington

SQUIRES LOFT MORNINGTON

OPEN | LUNCH SAT & SUN | DINNER TUE - SUN 5976 8482

squiresloftmornington.com.au

104 Main Street, Mornington Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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69 )

Relax and enjoy these top reads IT ENDS WITH US Colleen Hoover Fiction – Modern/Romance $22.99 Soon to be a major motion picture starring Blake Lively, this emotional No.1 Sunday Times bestseller is a heart-wrenching story and an unforgettable tale of love that comes at the ultimate price.

“A brave and heartbreaking novel that digs its claws into you and doesn’t let go, long after you’ve finished it” – Anna Todd, author of the After series.

WIFEDOM: MRS ORWELL’S INVISIBLE LIFE Anna Funder Literary Biography $36.99 A blazing, genre-bending masterpiece from one of the most inventive writers of our time. Compelling and utterly original, Wifedom speaks to the unsung work of women everywhere while offering a breathtakingly intimate view of one of the most important literary marriages of the 20th century. It speaks to our present as much as it illuminates the past.

WICKED Gregory Maguire Fiction – Modern/Fantasy $22.99 Wicked is about a land where animals talk and strive to be treated like first-class citizens, Munchkinlanders seek the comfort of middle-class stability, and the Tin Man becomes a victim of domestic violence.

And then there is the little green-skinned girl named Elphaba, who will grow up to be the infamous Wicked Witch of the West.

BRIGHT SHINING: HOW GRACE CHANGES EVERYTHING Julia Baird Mind, Body, Spirit $34.99 From the bestselling author of Phosphorescence comes a beautiful and timely exploration of that most mysterious but necessary of human qualities: grace. “Luminous . . . a work to both devour and savour, Baird has, once again, written a book the world needs now” – Guardian

THE IRON FLAME Rebecca Yarros Fiction – Fantasy $32.99 The No.1 bestselling sequel to the global phenomenon, Fourth Wing.

Readers of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo will devour this series.

GOOD MATERIAL Dolly Alderton Fiction – Modern $34.99 From the bestselling author of Ghosts and Everything I Know About Love comes a sharply funny, beautifully observed and exquisitely relatable story of heartbreak and friendship, and how to survive both.

WHERE TO FIND BIRDS AROUND MORNINGTON PENINSULA Larry Wakefield Reference $29.99 This wonderful full-colour booklet is an essential addition to every Mornington Peninsula holidaymaker’s library. The detailed information has been compiled by highly experienced members of BirdLife Mornington Peninsula, the peak birding body in the area.

Updated from the 2007 edition with more than 30 walks, including new locations and information about how to find birds in general.

IN THE ROCKPOOL Andrea Rowe Board Book $19.99 Little people love to explore little worlds. Dive into the rockpool with this glittering and gorgeous board book for our smallest nature-lovers, from the CBCA award-winning creators of Jetty Jumping: local author Andrea Rowe and Hannah Sommerville.

SISTERS UNDER THE RISING SUN Heather Morris Fiction – Historical $32.99 The captivating new novel from the multi-million-copy bestselling author of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, Cilka’s Journey and Three Sisters. Sisters Under the Rising Sun is a story of women in war, a novel of resilience, bravery and friendship in the darkest of circumstances.

( 70 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

LOLA IN THE MIRROR Trent Dalton Fiction – Modern $32.99 Bighearted, gritty, magical and moving, Lola in the Mirror is the irresistible new novel from the international bestselling author of Boy Swallows Universe and All Our Shimmering Skies.

THE SECRET Lee and Andrew Child Fiction – Crime/Thriller $32.99 Jack Reacher, “the coolest continuing series character”, according to Stephen King, returns in a brand new, pulse-pounding read from Lee and Andrew Child.

WELCOME TO THE HYUNAM-DONG BOOKSHOP Hwang Bo-Reum Fiction – Modern $32.99 “Delightful, reflective and heart-warming” – Woman’s Weekly; “Profound and healing . . . a beautiful story at its heart” – Woman & Home; “An incredibly exciting debut novel. At once gentle and invigorating. I devoured it” – Sarah Crossan, author of Here is the Beehive

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Provided by Rosebud Book Barn, 891 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud. P: 5986 6770. www.rosebudbookbarn.com.au FB: rosebudbookbarn INSTA: rosebudbookbarn RESURRECTION WALK Michael Connelly Fiction – Crime/Thriller $32.99 From No.1 bestselling author Michael Connelly, Lincoln Lawyer Mickey Haller is back and he’s taken on another long-shot case.

The chance of winning is one in a million.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA 2024 Hardie Grant Explore Travel $55 Explore Australia 2024 is the 40th edition of the country’s longest running and most trusted travel guide. For each region there’s a destination overview, a handy map, summaries of top attractions, information on festivals and events, and photos showcasing featured places. There’s also information on Traditional Owners, and many places feature First Nations cultural experiences or describe sacred sites.

EVEN MORE BASICS TO BRILLIANCE Donna Hay Cookbooks $55 Donna Hay, Australia’s most trusted and bestselling cookbook author, returns with a follow-up to her much-loved bestselling classic, Basics to Brilliance. In Even More Basics to Brilliance, you’ll find many more of those much-loved foundation recipes everyone needs in their cooking repertoire.

HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION 2024 James Halliday Wine Guides/Travel $45 A best-selling annual, the Halliday Wine Companion 2024 has been completely revised to bring readers the latest wine ratings, regions, best varietals, winery reviews and a curated selection of the best wines in Australia.

7 DAYS OF DINNER Adam Liaw Cookbooks $49.99 7 Days of Dinner takes the grind out of nightly cooking for everyone from novice cooks to busy families with Adam’s expert advice on what to make for dinner tonight.

MORNINGTON PENINSULA ABC Lyndall Underwood; Connah Brecon (illustrator) Picture Books $20 Take a journey through the beautiful Mornington Peninsula with Mornington Peninsula ABC: An Alphabet Adventure. This children’s book showcases the region’s stunning coastlines and rolling hills, featuring the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, London Bridge, Flinders Pier, and the incredible Mud Islands where you might even see a bronze whaler shark.

ULTIMATE COASTAL ROAD TRIPS: AUSTRALIA Lee Atkinson Travel $45 This comprehensive guide covers 40 seaside road trips around the country, including the Great Ocean Road, Western Australia’s Coral Coast, the Grand Pacific Drive, and K’gari, Flinders and Bruny islands. All trips focus exclusively on the coast and offer a wealth of detail for those planning a beach holiday, with some worthwhile side trips inland if you have time.

A NEVER ENDING JOURNEY – THE STORY OF VICTORIA’S MORNINGTON PENINSULA Malcolm Gordon Australiana $49.95 A thoroughly researched and illustrated history encompassing the Peninsula’s history and pre-history, geology, natural systems, landscapes, attractions, modern development, descriptions of its rural and coastal townships and pursuits, and entertaining local anecdotes. Filled with full-colour historical and contemporary photographs, charts and diagrams.

ud rosebud

B OOK B A R N

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

891 Pt Nepean Rd, Rosebud info@rosebudbookbarn.com.au P. 5986 6770 www.mpmag.com.au

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SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Nothing says summer quite like picking a sunkissed, ripe, juicy strawberry right off the plant and devouring it as the juice runs down your chin. In the leafy hinterland of Main Ridge in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, you'll find a field of beautiful ruby-red strawberries just waiting for you to lose yourself in as you pick your own bounty to take home.

In 1964, the Gallace family opened the gates of Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm to give residents and visitors the opportunity to experience the joy of picking fruit from the vine for themselves. The pick-your-own concept was a great success, and people young and old love to be at one with nature and experience the joy of farm-to-table.

In 2016, the Gallaces sold the farm, and just last year it came full circle and returned to the family with a new name and a new lease on life. With more than 20 years’ experience breeding new varieties, there isn't much they don't know

about growing strawberries.

After exploring the fields, stopping at the farmgate and cafe is a must. Spoil your family and friends with some of the best scones on the Peninsula, as well as creamy, luscious farm-made ice-cream, sundaes and milkshakes. The café’s strawberry temptation is a sensation: layers of strawberry ice-cream, fresh and marinated strawberries, whipped cream, wafers and strawberry sauce piled high in an oldschool sundae glass. And it's hard to resist strawberries dipped in Belgian couverture chocolate.

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm’s u-pick season runs from November to April, with the farm open daily from 10am5pm. During the off-season from May to October, the farm is open Friday-Sunday from 11am-4pm.

ROCKY CREEK STRAWBERRY FARM A: 244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge T: 5955 3500 W: www.rockycreek.com.au FB: rockycreekstrawberryfarm INSTA: rockycreekstrawberryfarm

7am – 7pm 7 days a week

Tasty and easy take home meals, Local wines & produce Regular food & wine tastings, Excellent coffee & delicious cakes Wide range of meat, vegetables and artisan breads

Free delivery within Flinders & immediate surrounds flindersgeneralstore

P: 5989 0207

( 72 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

48 Cook Street, Flinders mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm

open for pick your own till end of May. We will then be open inour retail and café from Friday to Sunday - 10am to 4pm

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm cafe

Offers fresh home made ice cream, coffee and fresh baked scones, our retail shop has amazing chocolate covered dried blueberries and strawberries to purchase.

U-Pick prices

$12 adult $6 child or $30 for a family of 2 adults 2 children Each person entering the field gets a punnet of their own freshly picked strawberries to take home For daily updates follow our Facebook & Instragram pages @rockycreekstrawberryfarm for fruit availability and weather conditions

2 4 4 S h a n d s Rd , M a i n R i d g e | P. 5 9 5 5 3 5 0 0 | w w w. r o c k yc r e e k .c o m . a u

SCAN TO BOOK A SESSION OR TO LEARN MORE

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

ninsula

mornington pe

A must have for every foodie

$20

All your summer hire needs sorted

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For stockists www.eatdrinkmp.com.au

Summer means hot weather and holidays. Oz Satellite Rentals’ wide range of equipment to hire makes summer living easy.

Whether you’re planning a party or you own a restaurant and need more fridge space, Oz Satellite Rentals has cool rooms at the ready for you to hire.

If you’re planning a road trip or camping holiday, you can hire satellite phones, GPS units, UHF radios, camper trailers, generators . . . the list goes on.

Oz Satellite Rentals director David Furston is a qualified 4WD trainer and has extensive experience in the adventure travel industry. You’ll receive expert advice on what will best suit your needs.

Jump online to arrange equipment hire or call the store and make a pick-up and drop-off time.

OZ SATELLITE RENTALS A: 1203 Dandenong Rd, Malvern East T: 8554 4397 W: www.ozsatelliterentals.com.au FB: Ozsate Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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Swing into Rosebud for an ace golfing getaway

Open to the public, Bookings Essential

Rosebud Country Club, which continues to be one of the most improved golf facilities on the Mornington Peninsula, will host The Players Series Victoria for the fourth successive year in 2024.

This new event on the PGA tour of Australasia and the WPGA tour schedule, in which men and women compete for the same prize purse, returns on January 25 and looks to be a regular fixture for Rosebud.

Rosebud is easily reached via Peninsula Link and is the perfect venue to host corporate golf days and

large golfing groups. Full access is available to the club's fantastic practice facilities, which include a driving range and chipping and putting greens as well as various practice bunkers.

Rosebud Country Club is also famous for its postgolf atmosphere in the clubhouse and Bistro62, which serves breakfast and lunch 7 days a week as well as dinner on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

With 4-star accommodation on site at Fairways Resort, Rosebud is certainly the ideal golfing getaway.

All guests are treated to the same wonderful service provided to its vibrant and friendly membership.

There is no better place to visit while on the Mornington Peninsula than Rosebud Country Club.

www.rosebudcountryclub.com.au | 207 Boneo Rd, Rosebud | P. 5950 0800

Owning backyard chickens on the Mornington Peninsula Imagine waking up to the cheerful clucking of hens as they greet the day, their vibrant presence adding a touch of rustic charm to your backyard. If this idyllic scene resonates with you, then Talking Hens, a family-run business nestled in the heart of Merricks on the Mornington Peninsula, is your go-to destination for bringing this dream to life.

Jason Nethercott and Giuliana Postregna, the passionate owners of Talking Hens, have been providing families with the knowledge and resources to embark on the rewarding journey of backyard chicken ownership. Their story began back in 2012 with a free-range egg farm in Keysborough, where their interest in backyard hens was ignited. As their business grew, Jason and Giuliana realised the joy they could bring to others by sharing their experience and knowledge of backyard hens. They transitioned their focus to providing families with everything they need to welcome these feathered friends into their homes.

Jason and Giuliana are committed to educating and passing on their knowledge to both current and new

chicken owners. They conduct informative talks and workshops and create engaging videos, arming their customers with the necessary expertise to care for their hens responsibly and reap the bountiful rewards they offer.

Talking Hens warmly invites you to step into the world of backyard hens and discover the joy, companionship and sustainability that these remarkable creatures bring. You’re invited to come along to Jason and Giuliana’s events:

• Introduction to backyard hens, Sunday, January 14, at 2pm • Open weekend, March 16-17, from 10am-4pm TALKING HENS A: 3590 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Merricks T: 0406 691 231 E: talk@talkinghens.com.au W: www.talkinghens.com.au FB: TalkingHens INSTA: talkinghens

Looking for backyard hens but unsure where to start?

Talking Hens is a family business that specialises in backyard hens.

We only supply friendly, egg laying hens with quality products to keep them happy and healthy.

There’s nothing like the friendship and entertainment that comes from our laying hens a pleasure to be shared!

Talking Hens 3590 Frankston Flinders Rd, Merricks Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Trading Hours: Open daily 10am to 4pm

For Enquiries Call 0406 691 231 E: talk@talkinghens.com.au W: www.TalkingHens.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

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The Best Kids Stores in Town!

The team at Colourful Learning are excited to offer the Mornington Peninsula an extensive range of quality toys & resources to help develop a love of learning through play.

Colourful Learning Toy Store is your one stop shop for that special toy or gift. The friendly and experienced team will help you find the perfect gift and offer free gift wrapping too!

You can feel the love when you walk through the doors at Colourful Learning.

The focus is on fun, quality, educational toys that grow with your children.

Everyone feels welcome at this much loved store and there is always a fun toy or two on show for the kids to play with and enjoy.

There is something for everyone at Colourful Learning and if you are nearby, be sure to drop in and say hello to the friendly team.

And if you’re looking for kids clothing or shoes, their sister store, Fred Peanut, is now open just across the road. Stocking the most beautiful brands for kids aged newborn to 12 years old.

Open 7 Days a week; Monday to Saturday 10am til 5pm, Sundays 10am til 3pm

P. 5979 3317 www.colourfullearning.com.au Colourful Learning Toy Store is a family owned business located at Shop 2B Empire St, Mornington, next to Blackbird Cafe.

Introducing

Mornington’s Newest Clothing Store for Kids Located in Main Street Mall, opposite the Filling Station and Chocolate Shop!

P. 7046 0884 www.fredpeanut.com.au

SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Hawkes Farm makes shopping fun Food shopping isn’t everyone’s idea of an enjoyable way to spend a summer day, but when your ‘supermarket’ is Hawkes Farm, it’s an activity the whole family can actually look forward to.

Stocking the Peninsula’s best produce in a setting made for fun, Hawkes Farm is a 56ha, family-run business that supplements its own fresh vegetables and strawberries

with a selection handpicked from all over the Peninsula.

You’ll find everything you need for delicious and healthy summer meals and snacks, including Johnny Ripe pies, Mumma Made jams and chutneys, Pure Peninsula Honey, Baker Boys breads and Red Hill Truffle products. Take your time to explore everything on offer, and when your basket’s full, treat yourself to a delicious Little Rebel coffee and cake.

On weekends, head to the farm kitchen in the picnic patch. Kids love the sandpit and old Farmall tractor, so there’s plenty of opportunities for family photos here.

Take a seat at a picnic table and enjoy Hawkes Farm’s famous hand-cut, thrice-cooked, gluten-free hot chips.

Drinks and ice-creams are also available. You can have it all at Hawkes Farm.

HAWKES FARM A: 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo T: 5988 6785 E: enquiries@hawkesvegetables.com.au W: www.hawkesfarm.com.au FB: Hawkes Farm INSTA: hawkes_farm

ONLINE STORE NOW OPEN A carefully curated collection of preloved designer clothing and accessories

Consign with CONNIE today You'll find us at Shop 1, 58 Kerferd Ave, Sorrento venture up the side street Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am - 4pm Tuesday: CLOSED * Open 7 days during summer

Insta: @theconniecollector www.theconniecollector.com E: theconniecollector@gmail.com P: 0401 173 223 Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Your local produce hub.

Open 7 days a week.

Cake, pies and coffee every day.

Famous hot chips Sat & Sun!

661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | www.hawkesfarm.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

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Read on to plan your sips and local brews adventure.

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Coolart Rd

The Mornington Peninsula has long been known for its award-winning wineries, but in recent years it’s also become the destination for discerning drinkers seeking great beer, cider, gin, whisky, brandy, rum, vodka and more. So we thought it was time to shine the spotlight on the pick of talented producers who have taken up residence here in wine country and showcase their wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries that turn out first-class products. Whether you love a thirst-quenching beer, a refreshing gin, a full-flavoured rum, a smooth whisky or a crisp vodka, we know you’ll have a good time visiting these welcoming venues and finding the drink that’s just right for you. On your journey this summer don’t forget to try the stunning champagnes, white or red wines and of course our signature local wine, pinot noir.

6

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SIPS AND LOCAL BREWS for you to enjoy

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SIPS AND LOCAL BREWS FEATURED ON OUR MAP 1. BANKS BREWING 12 Hi-Tech Place Seaford www.banksbrewing.com.au

8. JETTY ROAD BREWERY 12-14 Brasser Avenue, Dromana www.jettyroad.com.au

2. BASS & FLINDERS DISTILLERY 40 Collins Road, Dromana www.bassandflindersdistillery.com

9. JIMMYRUM DISTILLERY 6 Brasser Ave, Dromana www.jimmyrum.com.au

3. CHIEF’S SON DISTILLERY 25/50 Guelph Street, Somerville www.chiefsson.com.au

10. PENNI AVE DISTILLERY 2/43 Peninsula Avenue, Rye www.penniave.com.au

4. CRITTENDEN WINES 25 Harrisons Road, Dromana www.crittendenwines.com.au

11. RAHONA VALLEY 3/48 Collins Road, Dromana www.rahonavalley.com.au

5. ESCAPE BREWING 2/12 Suffolk Street, Rosebud www.escape.beer

12. THAT SPIRITED LOT DISTILLERS 4/42 Hartnett Drive, Seaford thatspiritedlot.com.au

6. FRANKSTON BREWHOUSE 10 New Street Frankston www.frankstonbrewhouse.com.au 7. HICKINBOTHAM OF DROMANA 194 Nepean Highway, Dromana www.hickinbotham.biz

13. TWO BAYS BREWING CO Unit 1, 2 Trewhitt Court, Dromana www.twobays.beer

TAP ROOM BAR & RESTAURANT BREWERY TOURS FUNCTIONS & EVENTS Thursday 4pm-10pm Friday 3pm-11pm Saturday 12-11pm Sunday 12-6pm 10 New St, Frankston | P. 9001 0010 | www.frankstonbrewhouse.com.au

BANKS BEER, GOOD TIMES

Family-owned distillery is fiercely independent That Spirited Lot Distillers is a family-owned craft spirits distillery that has operated out of the Seaford industrial area since 2019.

The spirits distillery prides itself on its sustainability and is a destination for locals and visiting tourists within the municipality.

9786 9905

12 Hi-Tech Pl, Seaford www. banksbrewing.com.au Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

That Spirited Lot Distillers is open Friday from noon-6pm, Saturday and Sunday from noon-5pm, and Wednesday and Thursday by appointment.

4/42 Hartnett Dve, Seaford | www.thatspiritedlot.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

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SUMMER HOLIDAY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Fly through the holidays with activities for all Embark on an extraordinary holiday journey at Arthurs Seat Eagle, where the Summer Fun extravaganza unfolds, promising an unforgettable season filled with joyous moments for all. Revel in the enchantment of extended evening hours, allowing you to gracefully glide into the magic of summer nights.

Dive into the Beach Bonanza, a week teeming with themed kids' activities and captivating sea life encounters guided by Wildlife Xposure experts. Exclusive family deals make it an ideal outing for all ages, ensuring seaside joy and cherished memories.

Embrace the great outdoors during Nature Unleashed. Engage in themed kids' activities, take part in community nature walks, relish summer picnic specials, and be captivated by Aussie Wildlife shows. Connect with nature and craft enduring memories with your loved ones.

For sports enthusiasts, the Sports Spectacular features outdoor kids' activities and live

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screenings of the Australian Open. Cheer for your favourite players against the backdrop of the breathtaking scenery from the Eagle.

Aussie Extravaganza is an immersive experience featuring Aussie kids' activities, delectable sausage sizzles, and unique art installations – a true blue delight for the whole family. Capture these moments and share them on social media using #ArthursSummerJoy. Enjoy daily crafts, enchanting story times, and toe-tapping Saturday music sessions on the café deck throughout the holidays. Quench your thirst with the café's exclusive summer specials, including refreshing slushies and delectable ice-cream scoops.

Arthurs Seat Eagle invites you to a summer like no other. Stay up to date with the latest information by visiting the official website at 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 Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Balnarring Picnic Racing Club

OTI Racing Balnarring Cup

Helping young people with Autism build skills to thrive $1400 pp can be claimed through NDIS

EMU PLAINS RESERVE GATES OPEN 10 AM 6 X RACE PROGRAM FREE KIDS ACTIVITIES

TICKETS AND PACKAGES

www.mpmag.com.au

83 )

Homegrown flavour to film festival’s Friday feature

Here Be Dragons, a gripping drama by Australian writer/director Alastair Newton Brown, is screening at Peninsula Cinemas Rosebud on Friday, February 2, at 7pm as part of the Peninsula Film Festival. The movie, shot in Serbia and rated M, will be followed by drinks and nibbles and a Q&A with Alastair and the movie’s star and producer, fellow Australian Nathan Clark Sapsford.

Nathan plays David Locke, a former British soldier turned UN war crimes investigator facing the prospect of an early retirement. One night, David is approached by a ghost from his past, a victim of the Yugoslav wars named Emir Ibrahimovic. Emir believes he’s located the notorious and previously presumed dead paramilitary commander Ivan Novak, played by Slobodan Bestic, living in Belgrade. Despite the disapproval of his superiors, David goes to Belgrade on a solo mission paid for by Emir in order to hunt, capture and bring to justice the man who has caused so much pain in the world.

According to festival organisers, Here Be Dragons “perfectly captures the concept of human compassion and the great lengths one will take to achieve true justice”. Tickets are available at www.peninsulacinemas.com.au

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arts events leisure

Award-winning artists at Mornington Art Show Elena Kolotusha and Glenn Hoyle are the guest artists at this month’s Mornington Art Show.

Born in Russia, Elena developed her passion for art from an early age. She has lived in Australia since 1998 and has taken part in many art shows and exhibitions, winning numerous awards and commendations. Her works have also been included in several art publications in Australia, the UK and US. Elena works in various media, including oils/acrylics, coloured pencils/mixed media, and scratchboard engravings. Her favourite genres are wildlife portraiture and still life drawing, with emotional engagement and a hint of quirkiness and symbolism.

Glenn hails from Lancashire, England, and is a graduate of Rochdale College of Art in the UK. He moved to Australia in 1981 and is a long-time member of the Peninsula Arts Society.

Working in oils, watercolour and pastels, Glenn strives to capture the effects of light on his treasured Peninsula land and coastline. He has won many awards, with his paintings represented in private collections throughout Australia and overseas.

PENINSULA COMMUNITY THEATRE

Cnr Nepean Hwy & Wilsons Rd, Mornington Online Art Sales available 22-27 Jan 2024 at morningtonartshow.com.au

( 86 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

The show is on from January 19-26 at the Peninsula Community Theatre, cnr Nepean Highway and Wilsons Rd, and online art sales are available from January 22-27 at www. morningtonartshow.com. au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Crafting community brilliance In various spaces across the Mornington Peninsula, subtle transformations are unfolding project by project thanks to the skilled hands and giving spirit of the Mount Eliza Men's Shed.

The organisation, known for its dedication to providing a space for men to share stories, wisdom and camaraderie, has been hard at work, building not just with tools but with a sense of purpose and community.

On the Village Green in Mount Eliza you’ll find the sturdy new Little Free Library.

These miniature libraries, housed in weather-resistant boxes, encourage the exchange of books with the simple request of ‘Take a book, leave a book’.

Anyone passing by can borrow a book or contribute to the collection, creating a communal and ever-evolving treasure trove of literature.

“Originally a fellow from Rotary built it, and we've been repairing it for about five years because somehow the doors kept coming off,” said Mount Eliza Men’s Shed vice-president Adam Gregson.

Crafted with care, the exquisite frame and outdoor easel showcases Woodleigh School’s mosaic artwork.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

“Then recently a tree fell down and hit it, completely destroying it, so we had to rebuild it.”

At Paratea Preschool in Frankston South, the Men's Shed members transformed the ordinary concept of a letterbox into a captivating and interactive piece of functional art by building a letterbox in the shape of Mr Strong for the kindergarten kids to use. This vibrant project not only adds a touch of whimsy to the daily kinder routine, it also reflects the craftsmanship and dedication of its creators.

At Woodleigh School, a joyous mosaic crafted by the children is displayed on a sturdy easel with a bespoke frame, courtesy of the Mount Eliza Men's Shed.

The artwork is a symbol of community synergy, with different generations and talents uniting to create a lasting piece of outdoor art for all to admire.

Through their dedicated craftsmanship, the talented members of the Men’s Shed weave together the threads of imagination and practicality, leaving a lasting mark on spaces and hearts alike.

To learn more about the Mount Eliza Men's Shed and its projects, visit www. mountelizamensshed.org SARAH HALFPENNY

Mount Eliza’s Little Free Library is a charming haven for book-lovers. www.mpmag.com.au

87 )

Bringing art home

Dean Bowen’s Almost Home, etching, aquatint, drypoint, 67 x 89cm. Courtesy Salt Contemporary Art

After five years showing in Flinders, art writers and gallerists Susan and Emily McCulloch have moved their Everywhen Artspace gallery to its original, historically significant hinterland home gallery Whistlewood.

"We exhibited at Whistlewood for many years before opening in Flinders and have always been surrounded by art here," said co-director Susan. "Visitors love coming to a home gallery with gardens and views over hinterland hills to Western Port and Bass Strait. We're also very conscious of living on Bunurong land and are paying tribute to that in our exhibition program."

Susan's parents – critic and Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery founding director Alan McCulloch and his wife, actor Ella Bromley – bought the 1870s cottage in 1951. It has been the McCullochs’ family home since.

Artist Arthur Boyd designed and built Alan's art and writing studio in 1951, and frequent artist visitors to

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Whistlewood included many of the great names in late20th century Australian and international arts.

Now, in its refurbished, rejuvenated home, Everywhen Art continues its exhibition program featuring leading artists and exciting new talents of Aboriginal art.

The launch exhibition is called H O M E and comprises more than 80 works by artists whose practice engages with places of personal and/or inherited significance, whether interiors, exteriors, or views of special lands.

Included are some 40 Aboriginal artists and 30 artists represented by Australian Galleries, Cook Street Collective, Gallerysmith and Salt Contemporary Art.

They include some of the most well-known names in Australian art, many of whom have been regular visitors to Whistlewood.

The exhibition runs from January 6-February 25.

Everywhen Art at Whistlewood is open daily from January 7-31, and Thursday to Sunday from 11am-4pm from February 1.

EVERYWHEN ART AT WHISTLEWOOD A: 642 Tucks Rd, Shoreham T: 0359 310 318 W: www.everywhenart.com.au E: info@everywhenart.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

BEFORE

AFTER

Manyung’s proud history of transforming spaces with art Throughout more than half a century, Mount Eliza residents have enjoyed sourcing their paintings and sculptures from Manyung Gallery Mount Eliza. For many years, visits to the ‘old art castle’ on Nepean Highway were a tradition.

However, Manyung is now pleased to announce their brand new, industrial chic-style gallery is officially open at 54 Mount Eliza Way in the Village.

Here they can help you choose just what is right for you.

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It is not a hard process, but one that’s very rewarding and particularly satisfying. In the above images one can see how spaces can be enlivened with the introduction of the right artwork.

If you are keen to improve the look of your living areas, all the help you need is available.

This professional input is free and will ensure the tonal connections, sizing, subject matter and lighting all work towards getting you and your family a great result – one you will be proud of.

The ‘go to‘ people on the Mornington Peninsula are the folks at Manyung Gallery Group who have been operating on the Peninsula for almost 54 years and have six art galleries throughout Melbourne, supported by warehouses in Mornington, all loaded with a huge range of artwork from which you can choose.

A step at a time.

Most people would like to see what a wall may look like if choices of artwork options can be assessed quietly in their own time and without any pressure.

That’s easy. They take and send an image of their target wall/s to Brittney at Manyung – simply email Brittney@ manyunggallery.com.au – and she will line up artwork ideas to suit the spaces. This is a free service.

MANYUNG GALLERY GROUP A: 113 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento A: 37 Cook St, Flinders A: 54 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza A: U6, 35 Progress St, Mornington A: 6-10 Claremont Ave, Malvern A: 335 Napier St, Strathmore T: 9787 2953 all sites W: manyunggallery.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

SUMMER AFTERNOON ART SOIREES 113 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento Established over half a century ago in 1968, the acclaimed Manyung Gallery Group operates welcoming commercial galleries in each of the must-go-to hotspots on the Mornington Peninsula. At each site, there is a large range of contemporary Australian paintings and sculptures and friendly staff to help visitors with their selections.

On Saturdays 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th, Australia Day weekend, visit our Sorrento Gallery between 12 - 5pm and meet artists, hear live music and have a glass of wine while viewing 200+ original Australian paintings and sculptures.

Sponsors continue to support much-loved community fun run The popular MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival is all about ‘community’ – whether it’s the blood cancer community; the kids, parents and families in our community; the amazing grassroots community clubs; or those ever-resilient businesses in our community.

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

The 2024 festival will again be wonderfully supported by Gold Sponsors Ritchies Mount Eliza, Charlton Degg and Peninsula Grammar; Silver Sponsors Peninsula Vet Care, PARC, Peninsula Hot Springs, The Smile Place, Bluegum, Eview Mount Eliza, 3MP, DX Design, Active Feet Mornington and Media Words; and Media Partner Mornington

Peninsula Magazine.

The festival has raised more $400,000 for Snowdome Foundation to fund much-needed blood cancer research and raise awareness. “We continue to be so well supported by our generous sponsors, the local community and supporters further afield,” Geoff said.

“It’s a privilege to be able to host the much-loved festival for another year.”

The eighth MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival is on Sunday, March 17. Visit mymounteliza.org.au to register and follow @MYMountEliza on Facebook and Instagram to get involved.

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Sensational tribute to the masters of swing Australian screen and stage star Tom Burlinson first shot to fame in the ‘80s in the box office hit The Man from Snowy River, which became one of the most successful Australian films ever made. More recently, Tom starred in the acclaimed theatrical production Frank – A Life in Song, which played highly successful seasons at venues around Australia.

Now Tom has delved even deeper into the Great American Song Book to create Now We’re Swingin’, a montage of swing classics by Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr, Nat King Cole, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin and Frank Sinatra, through to the songs made famous by supercool swingers of the current era: Harry Connick Jr,

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Photo: Brad Delaney

Michael Bublé and Robbie Williams.

“This music is, to a degree, timeless,” Tom said. “A lot of the songs in the show were written for musicals produced in the ‘20s, ‘30s and ‘40s. I have included classics from Tony Bennett, who has fantastic pipes and was Sinatra’s favourite singer; Nat King Cole, who was smooth and jazzy; the multi-talented, high-energy Sammy Davis Jr; Dean Martin, who was the epitome of cool; and Bobby Darin, who also had some big hits.”

Accompanying Tom will be some of Australia’s best jazz musicians. Book now for a performance of timeless music with a dash of style at Frankston Arts Centre for Now We’re Swingin’ on Friday, February 2, at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets at thefac.com.au or on 9784 1060.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston T: 9784 1060 W: www.thefac.com.au FB: FrankstonArtsCentre INSTA: the_fac

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Coastrek returns to the Peninsula Coastrek, Australia’s iconic hiking challenge, will bring its inspirational formula of fun, fitness, friends and fundraising to the Mornington Peninsula on Friday, May 24, encouraging more women – and men! – to get moving in nature and hike for healthy hearts in support of the Heart Foundation.

Trekkers will take on a 50km, 30km or 20km challenge on one of Australia’s most picturesque coastlines and hiking trails. A stunning sunrise start at Cape Schanck lighthouse, the natural beauty of Sorrento Beach, panoramic views from Fort Nepean, and coastal bush trails are among the many highlights that make the Coastrek Mornington Peninsula event so special.

Coastrek provides the ultimate active getaway with purpose, connecting an energising fitness challenge in a spectacular location with building awareness about the benefits of walking for heart health and fundraising for the Heart Foundation’s lifesaving research to combat heart disease, the leading cause of death in Australia.

Registrations close on Sunday, April 14; visit www.coastrek.com.au

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Dan Palamara speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about his musical journey from childhood Beatles inspiration to touring with The Killjoys and his live performances on the Mornington Peninsula.

musician. My father cried.

Tell us about your time playing with The Killjoys.

I was studying music improvisation on bass at Victorian College of the Arts when I was asked to join The Killjoys. That was around 1990, and we went straight into the studio to record the Ruby album.

I toured with The Killjoys promoting it; we performed live on Tonight Live with Steve Vizard twice, plus Countdown and JJJ How did your musical journey begin? live. There was a lot going on and it was a When my brother and I were kids, we really fun time. In 1991 the album won an were captivated by the Beatles cartoons and fell in love with their music. Five years ARIA award for Best Independent Album.

In 1992 I left the band to marry and start later, after music lessons and obsessive practise, my brother and I could perform a family. The Killjoys have released many fine albums, are still going today and are most of The Beatles’ repertoire. We worth checking out. sang in front of relatives and friends whenever possible. By the time I was How do you curate your set list to 16 years old, we had a band called The adapt to different audiences when Blue Screamers and performed a Rolling you’re playing at venues along the Stones song live on The Early Bird Show, Peninsula? hosted by Darryl Cotton and Marty the Normally I don’t know which song I’m Monster. We loved it. There was no other going to play next until 10 seconds career choice for me – I had to become a before I start it. I read the mood and the

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

atmosphere, or if I’m stuck I encourage the audience to make requests.

You also offer guitar lessons and musical instrument repairs. What do you find most rewarding about this work?

Seeing students develop into musicians gives me a lot of energy and enthusiasm to keep learning new things myself. I’ve been repairing musical instruments for 35 years and it’s very satisfying when you bring an instrument back to life after it’s been in a state of disrepair and silence for decades.

What are your favourite venues to play at on the Peninsula?

I’ve played at many over the years.

Hickinbotham of Dromana has been a mainstay; I’ve played there on the third Saturday of every month for over 20 years. Playing outside on a sunny, breezy day is always wonderful. I’m also a regular at The Heritage Balnarring, Tar Barrel Brewery in Mornington, the Peninsula Beer Garden, and Mr Paul’s.

What are you excited to pursue, musically speaking, in the future?

I hope to continue improving and evolving my live performances, keeping them fresh by finding new ways to present and treat the songs I play. Maybe finally getting around to recording my original songs, which have been waiting for attention for a long time. I love to perform and hope to be doing it for a long time to come.

www.mpmag.com.au

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What’s On across the Peninsula and Frankston EVERYDAY IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY

SATURDAY JANUARY 6 – FEBRUARY 25

Briars Geocaching Summer: The Briars, 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha; Geocaching is back for Summer and has gone digital! Take treasure hunting to the next level. We’re putting a Briars spin on traditional geocaching with themed ‘caches’ or boxes hidden onsite.

Grab your family, friends, or go solo on this self- guided geocaching adventure to find out what is awaiting in each cache.

Everywhen Art at Whistlewood: Opening exhibition of new gallery space; 80+ works by 70 artists. Outstanding works by established artists and emerging talents of Aboriginal art. PLUS select works by well-known artists closely associated with the McCulloch’s historic home gallery, Whistlewood; everywhenart.com.au

SATURDAY JANUARY 13

SATURDAY JANUARY 13 ANNUAL ATHLETIC CARNIVAL ANNUAL ATHLETIC CARNIVAL

JANUARY 2 - JANUARY 28

RYE RYEGIFT GIFT

FREE KI FRE DS E KID RIDES RIDES S

Coastal Jam 2024: The Village Green, Rosebud; Hosted by Triple J’s Latifa Tee Coastal Jam returns to the Rosebud Village Green next month with touring favourites Lime Cordiale headlining a piping-hot line-up of Australian and international artists; Grab your tickets at www.coastaljam.com.au

SATURDAY JANUARY 20 FAC E PAI FAC E PAI NTINT NGING KID KID ACT SS ACT IVIIVI TIESTIES

ERS ERS AK AK KM KM BOO FOR NING BOO FOR NING RUN ING N G FOOTSE RAC S MILE U R IN R E R T C FOORSE RARS MIL HOTBALLE FOO HO ALLE TB FOO

FOO

FDO&OM LIQ D A&RK UOR MEA LIQ BOOTRSTKAELL UORTH TSST BOO ALL S TH

ANNUAL ATHLETIC CARNIVAL SATURDAY JANUARY CARNIVAL ANNUAL13th SATURDAY 13thATHLETIC JANUARY

SATURDAY JANUARY 20

Peninsula Craft Beer Festival: 4-8pm, Food Yard Mornington, 1000A Nepean Highway, Mornington.

Indulge in a celebration of flavours at our Peninsula Craft Beer Festival at the Food Yard Mornington.

Savour a diverse range of beers from eight Peninsula breweries along with street food trucks and live music; tickets from https://bit.ly/41nLoP9

FRIDAY JANUARY 26

RYE GIFT RYE GIFT

FREE KI DS RIDES

RACV

en s op Ga te am 7.30

en s op Ga te am 7.30

Inflatable Obstacle Course: Yawa Aquatic Centre, 100 Besgrove St, Rosebud; Make a splash on Yawa’s custom designed, ‘WIBIT’ – the giant, inflatable obstacle course.

30 minute sessions,RACV $12.30 per person, includes pool entry. Scan to book a session or learn more.

ERS AK KM BOO FOR NING N G T RU CIN E FOORSE RARS MIL HO ALLE B T FOO

Cape Schanck Resort

FREE KI DS FACE PAINTING KIDS ACTIVITIES RIDES S The Rye Gift: ER AK KM FOO BOO FOR NING D& R.J. Rowley Melbourne Rd, Rye; UN CING E RReserve, T O A IL LIQ MARKE FO RSE R RS M UOR TS LLE Now inFOHOOits OOT TALLSis the TBA 47th year, the Bevent H third-highest ranked event for professional running on the RACV Victorian Athletics League calendar.

Kids Acti vitie and market fromfood Family fun day with 11am s stalls, free kids rides, face painting and kids activities.

RACV

Cape Schanck Resort

Kids A from ctivitie s 1 Kid 1am

sA from ctivitie 11am s

FACE PAINTING KIDS ACTIVITIES

OOD & Emu Plains FTwilight Market: LIQ MARKE UOR T BOO STALL S Balnarring; TH 3-8pm, Emu Plains Reserve, More than just a market the EPM is a monthly celebration of art, food, design Kids A from ctivitie and culture. Explore incredible s 11am 240+ small businesses. Celebrate summer #underthestringybarks www.emuplainsmarket.com.au

SATURDAY 13th JANUARYSATURDAY 13th JANUARY

en s op Ga te am 7.30

Cape Schanck Resort

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en s op Ga te am 7.30

Cape Schanck Resort

Balnarring Cup: Gates open 10am, Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring; Featuring the Ringwood Highland Pipe Band, 6 X Race program free kids activities: face painting, Kelly Sports, Bebop Circus, Funky Farm; balnarring races.com

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

FRIDAY JANUARY 26

SATURDAY JANUARY 27

Rosebud Fun Run + Australia Day Festival: 8am-3pm, Village Green Rosebud; Revive community spirit on January 26 at Rosebud Fun Run + Australia Day Festival. Fun Runs, music, festivities – join the celebration! 10km, 5.3km, and 2km options, tickets ranging from $20-65; ausdayfunrun.com.au and to register ausdayfunrun.com.au/register

Little Beauty Twilight Market: 3-8pm, Beauty Park, Frankston Filled to the brim with awesomeness Little Beauty features 120+ of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos.

Dogs welcome! www.littlebeautymarket.com.au SATURDAY JANUARY 27

FRIDAY JANUARY 26 (AUSTRALIA DAY)

SATURDAY JANUARY 27

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 23 – SUNDAY FEBRUARY 25

The 5ifth Market: 9am-1pm, 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

Flinders Fringe Festival: Flinders Village, Cook Street Flinders, Flinders; Bringing a burst of creative and fringy excitement to the coastal village.

More than 10 venues throughout the village will host creative events and ‘happenings’ including comedy, theatre, sing-a-longs, exhibitions, performance art, cabaret, and festival picnic concert.

Something for all ages and tastes; https://flindersfringe.com.au/

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 3 SATURDAY MARCH 2

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

Peninsula Craft Beer Festival: 10am-2pm, Food Yard Mornington, 1000A Nepean Highway, Mornington.

Indulge in a celebration of flavours at our Peninsula Craft Beer Festival at the Food Yard Mornington.

Savour a diverse range of beers from eight Peninsula breweries along with street food trucks and live music; tickets from https://bit.ly/41nLoP9

Upload your event or activity FOR FREE online only OR $66 with image in print and online P: 9708 8222 or use QR code www.mpmag.com.au

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Peninsula Film Festival: Gates open 5pm, films start 7pm, The Village Green, Rosebud; Food trucks, live music, Beer & Wine, No BYO; $10pp general entry, or you can spoil yourself in the fully catered VIP tent; limited VIP tickets are available for $150.

Tickets and details at www.peninsulafilmfestival.com.au

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

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the business

Awards provide a platform to champion businesswomen Lauren Wild, a successful entrepreneur, founded Wild Women in Business, recognising the vital role of a supportive community in her own journey. While her success is commendable, the challenges of entrepreneurship led her to seek a community of like-minded women.

Dissatisfied with the existing options, she took matters into her own hands, giving birth to Wild Women in Business.

Wild Women in Business will go beyond accountability; Lauren envisions a Healthy Founders Club, understanding that a business thrives when its founder is nurtured.

( 98 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

The International Women's Day celebration on March 1 at Mornington Racecourse marks an essential event for Wild Women in Business, as it will launch its pilot programs from this. Thirteen awards across diverse categories will recognise excellence, innovation, and emerging businesses, fostering empowerment and networking opportunities.

Lauren's perspective underscores the importance of resources, including contacts, in unlocking potential and thriving in the competitive business world. Award submissions, open to all, cover categories such as Best Brand Development, Innovator of the Year, Business Transformation, Best Community Engagement, Best Sustainable Product or Service, and

Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

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.

As Lauren aptly puts it: "When you have the right community, resources, and connections, it's a whole lot easier."

WILD WOMEN IN BUSINESS A: Mornington T: 0413 487 179 W: www.wildwomeninbusiness.com.au FB: wildwomeninbusiness INSTA: wildwomeninbusiness

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

In conversation with pre-eminent family lawyer Gillian Coote Coote Family Lawyers is one of Australia’s mostawarded family law firms, so it’s exciting you now have a Balnarring office. What brought you here?

The Peninsula is one of my all-time favourite places in Victoria. I grew up holidaying here, and still do, and think it’s a remarkable area with a wonderful community. There's something profoundly rewarding about now being able to help people living on the Peninsula get through challenging times.

What is the firm offering?

Our experienced team offer supportive and pragmatic counsel in all areas of family law and wills and estates. I established the firm in Melbourne in 2002 to provide a level of client care rarely found in top-tier, multi-disciplinary law firms. People living on the Peninsula can now rely upon a local tier 1 law firm that provides practical legal solutions, saving unnecessary stress and expense. Building relationships based on trust and transparent communication is what we do, and this is especially important in a close-knit community like Balnarring.

What sets you apart?

We are recognised by Doyle’s Guide as one of the country’s pre-eminent family law firms and our solicitors are consistently acknowledged for their individual expertise. We tailor our approach to each person’s needs, guiding them through the legal system during what can be a very challenging time. We are caring and approachable, and this coupled with our expertise is what I believe sets us apart.

COOTE FAMILY LAWYERS A: 1/2-8 Russell St, Balnarring T: 5927 5010 W: www.cootefamilylawyers.com.au E: mail@cootefamilylawyers.com.au

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We all need cost of living relief

Summer smiles with friends, family, sun and sand give us short reprieve from the reality many of our fellow residents are facing as the cost-of-living crisis impacts across the Peninsula.

( 100 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

For many of our local businesses, the short summer season of four weeks provides more than half their annual revenue. A poor summer can make or break a business.

In the past 18 months, Australians’ lives have changed markedly.

Interest rates are at their highest level since 2011; the average Australian family with a $750,000 mortgage is having to find an additional $25,000 a year to cover just the interest payments on the family home. Figures released before Christmas revealed spending was down, saving was almost negligible, and everything else costs more: groceries, rent and energy key among them.

But you don’t need official figures to know this. Talk to your neighbourhood cafes, restaurants, community clubs, gift shops and event organisers – they will tell you belts have tightened.

Now it’s just one beer at knock-off

o’clock. A retired couple might share a meal rather than have a main meal each.

People don’t want to rent a holiday house for a fortnight; they can only afford a week.

Underlying inflation remains one of the highest in the world.

Economic management and community safety are key duties of government.

At the end of 2023, the Australian Government failed at both.

Let’s hope 2024 brings better decisionmaking – because you not only deserve it, our community needs it.

ZOE McKENZIE MP, Federal Member for Flinders ZOE McKENZIE MP A: Unit 1/49 Eramosa Road West, Somerville T: 5977 9082 W: www.zoemckenzie.com.au FB: ZoeMcKenzieFlinders INSTA: zoemckenzieflinders

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Accredited family law specialist on the Mornington Peninsula If you have a family law problem, it is vital to get advice from an accredited specialist.

Sarah Bruce – Coach

~ Counsellor ~ Mentor

I support women in their 40s and beyond, who may be feeling invisible, voiceless or lacking direction, by supporting them to create goals, strategies, tools or habits that will transform the way they think, feel and act, so they feel seen, heard and valued in every aspect of their life.

Let’s have a conversation around how I can support you!

To be an accredited specialist in family law a lawyer must demonstrate experience and expertise in that area. A specialist must undergo extra legal education each year to maintain their accreditation. They must keep up with all changes in the law and be aware of all developments.

Let’s connect on Instagram or Facebook as well as via my website where you can learn more about myself and my story.

For example, did you know that important changes have been made to the Family Law Act in relation to children’s matters that affect matters in 2024? There are also changes afoot to how financial matters are dealt with.

Freeman Family Law also monitors developments in the myriad court cases published each month. For example, see our website about the recent case of Moretto & Cosola, which was a financial case with a very surprising result.

Not getting expert advice can cost you in many ways, as that case shows.

Graeme Freeman, accredited specialist in family law, has had a close connection

thereinventionstrategist.com.au with the Mornington Peninsula for more than 20 years. Freeman Family Law has offices conveniently located in Mornington and Dromana as well as in the city and other locations.

Family law problem? See a specialist at Freeman Family Law. FREEMAN FAMILY LAW A: G7/786 Esplanade, Mornington & Shop 7/217 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana T: 5947 4836 W: www.freemanfamilylaw.com.au FB: FreemanFamilyLaw INSTA: FreemanFamilyLaw

Kick-start your business in 2024 choose a campaign with the market leader for fabulous results

Phone 9708 8222 to chat about how we can promote your business to an interested and engaged audience.

There is no need to understand industry regulations and With mandatory VBA registration on its way, there is no Are you an experienced requirements, we’ve got your back! to waste. Trade Registered offers a comprehensive Carpenter and have never time and reliable service that will make sure you get Don't waste any more time doing jobs you know you got around to being registered and licenced quickly and easily. shouldn't be doing because you don't have the registered or licenced? Our experienced team of trade registration and licensing probably proper credentials. will support you every step of the way to Register now with Trade Registered and be one step Mandatory VBA professionals achieve the registration and licence you know you need. closer to being registered and recognised for the registration is professional you are, before mandatory We provide a proven process and provide you with coming.

VBA registration. ongoing support throughout the duration of our service.

Now is the time!

Call us for a no-obligation chat to assess your suitability 9975 4858 Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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Legal advice built MT ELIZA / MELBOURNE CBD / BRAESIDE on experience MT ELIZA / MELBOURNE CBD / SANDRINGHAM

Frankston resident Kelvin Oldridge has situated his legal practice in Sandringham to provide accessibility for clients from the city, bayside and the Peninsula.

Specialists in Family Law Solutions

With qualifications in building and law — B.Build (RMIT) and LL.B (Hons University of London) — Kelvin’s advice is complemented by his building experience. He is a key part of Melbourne’s projects and dispute resolution fraternity, a member of the Building Dispute Practitioners Society, and a regular judge for the Master Builders Association’s Excellence in Construction Awards.

Kelvin regularly provides a legal and advisory service to construction and project management businesses, property developers, contractors and insurance companies, including drafting and amending contracts, standard forms of construction and development contracts in Australia and including the Australia Standards suite of contracts.

www.vicrajah.com.au Specialists in Family Law Solutions www.calleyfamilylaw.com.au 9781 4222 info@vicrajah.com.au T. (03) 9781 4222 or E. calley@calleyfamilylaw.com.au

( 102 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

KO CONSTRUCTION LAW T: 9598 6444 W: www.kolaw.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

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103 )

Award-winning businesses on our doorstep The Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards offer local businesses the opportunity to celebrate their wins, inspire and network with others in the community.

This year’s winners embody qualities that positively contribute to our region’s growth, and we are proud to have them right on our doorstep.

Lil's Yolky Dokey Pasture Raised Eggs excelled in Agriculture and Manufacturing for their commitment to regenerative agriculture, sustainable and ethical farming, and to their community.

With an emphasis on promoting sustainability and creativity among young minds, Little Woodworkers

won the Creative Industry award for the second year.

commitment and delivery of memorable experiences.

In the Health and Community category, Your Move Health were commended for their collaborative approach and unique programs.

Buchanan Crane Hire excelled in Trade, Building and Construction, recognised for their commitment to the broader industry and to high service standards.

Recognised for their recruitment, onboarding and training processes as well as their commitment to staff well-being, Sarah’s Domestic Bliss Cleaning won the Professional Services award.

Elements Eatery won the Hospitality award and Business of the Year title, praised for their comprehensive processes, sustainability practices and commitment to ongoing staff training.

Artisan’s Alley, winner in Retail, impressed with their collaboration, augmented reality utilisation and effective data collection for artists.

For more, visit mpbusiness.com.au/businessawards

Praised for their clear vision, business approach, and consciously inclusive commitment, The Cambium won the Start-Up award.

Moonraker Dolphin Swims won the Tourism award for the second year, applauded for their carbon-neutral

MORNINGTON PENINSULA SHIRE A: 2 Queen St, Mornington A: 90 Besgrove St, Rosebud A: 21 Marine Pde, Hastings A: 1085 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Somerville T: 1300 850 600 W: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

EXCLUSIVE USE VENUE Nestled in the lush surrounds of Red Hill on the Mornington Peninsula, The Cambium is an exclusive-use venue for groups looking to enact change, away from the distractions of their traditional workplace. It’s a blank canvas for innovation, thoughtfully tailored to the unique intention of each groups’ visit.

The Cambium collaborates with each client to curate a unique booking with a selection of experiences that include venue hire, private dining, team building activities, business speakers/facilitators and wellbeing activities.

THE CAMBIUM ALSO OFFERS A TRULY UNIQUE PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCE.

The Cambium is delighted to collaborate with world-class chef, Adam Sanderson.

Adams's CV includes residences at Michelin-star restaurants - The Fat Duck, Rhodes Twenty-Four and Noma. More recently he’s delighted diners at the Mornington Peninsula’s Ten Minutes by Tractor.

Adam personally tailors private dining experiences both inside and out. Guests can travel from the dining room onto the rolling lawns, with an outdoor firepit experience to outlast the sunset.

Following the private dining experience, guests may like to stay overnight. All ten accommodation suites onsite enjoy their own private views of the nature reserve and sprawling gardens.

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS To enquire please contact The Cambium curateyourstay@thecambium.com.au | P. 5931 0226

( 104 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Group shot of the 2023 winners of Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Business Excellence Awards

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Do you need help getting moving?

We specialise in tailored exercise services for people with chronic health concerns, disabilities and injuries.

Have you outgrown your accountant?

In the early stages of your business, a small business accountant might have been the perfect fit. However, as your business grows and evolves, your financial needs change too.

2. I f your business deals with complex financial transactions, you may require specialised expertise.

Here are five signs that it might be time to consider upgrading to a larger, more specialised accounting firm, like Smart Business Solutions:

4. Small business accountants may not provide the in-depth financial insights your growing business requires so you can plan for long-term success and address potential issues before they become major problems.

1. If your business is expanding steadily or quickly, you need an accounting team that can keep up. Larger firms typically have more resources, experienced professionals, and a broader range of services to support your growth.

FAMILY FOODS Handmade Foods

Pearson Foods creating a variety of ready-made Lasagnes and Bolognese on the Mornington Peninsula and selling throughout Victoria.

Mention MP Magazine and receive $25 off an initial assessment, valid to 30/06/2024

3. T ax compliance can become more complicated as your business grows. If you find yourself struggling with intricate tax planning or facing potential tax issues, it's a sign that you need tax experts who can help you.

5. If your business operates in a specialised industry, you may need industry-specific expertise ensuring that you receive tailored support and compliance guidance.

If you’re ready to step up your business in 2024, contact Smart Business Solutions.

SMART BUSINESS SOLUTIONS A: 328 Main St, Mornington T: 5911 7000 W: www.smartbusinesssolutions.com.au FB: SMART.SBS INSTA: smart_sbs

They’re delicious because they’re handmade fresh everyday.

Search Pearson Foods for your nearest stockist

Looking to get more local exposure? choose the market leader for fabulous results Phone 9708 8222 to chat about how we can promote your business to an interested and engaged audience.

P. 5904 6239

E. contact@yourmovehealth.com.au 2/103 High St, Hastings ( 106 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

www.pearsonfoods.com.au

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Annual foodies guide mornington pe

ninsula

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All things delicious on the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston

at newsagents, produce stores & bookstores from Ivanhoe to Crib Point

www.eatdrinkmp.com.au

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( 108 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Photo by Willow Creative

More than just a café Elements Eatery is a vibrant hub at the heart of the community, a meeting place that embodies the essence of the Mornington Peninsula. Nestled within the state-of-the-art Yawa Aquatic Centre, Elements Eatery serves as a gathering spot for locals, a place for school outings, a haven for rehabilitation, and a welcoming destination for visitors exploring the region.

Incredibly humbled and thrilled to announce that Elements Eatery has clinched the:

2023 Business of the Year Award and the

2023 Hospitality Business of the Year This achievement is a testament to the outstanding support from our community, the hard work of our team, and the invaluable collaboration with YAWA, Belgravia Leisure, and the Mornington Peninsula Shire.

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who's been part of our journey, and special gratitude to the sponsors for their unwavering support for small business on the Mornington Peninsula.

2023 Business of the Year - Elements Eatery, photo @willowcreative

Opening hours: Monday-Friday from 6am; Saturday-Sunday from 8am 100 Besgrove St, Rosebud I P: 5982 6020 I www.elementseatery.com.au

Buchanan Mobile Crane Hire a strong family business serving the local community for over 40 years.

• Latest technology • Cranesafe certified • Experienced versatile operators • Member of the Crane Industry Council Australia We offer a large fleet of cranes from small crawlers to pick and carry franna cranes and slewing cranes from 30 to 60 tonne.

We have solutions to all your lifting needs Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Winning our category in the small business excellence awards reassures our clients that we are delivering the highest level of service in the industry.

Contact James Buchanan P: 0400 071 389 | E: craneup@bigpond.net.au www..buchanancranes.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

109 )

Huge congrats Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of this year’s Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards.

Mornington Peninsula Magazine is proud to be a sponsor and supporter of this wonderful initiative.

Finalists in Hospitality in the 2023 Business Awards!

15 Guest St, Tootgarook |

agoodlittlething

Services we offer: • Home cleaning • End of Lease cleaning • Clean and presentation for sale

Bliss

Cleaning

• Spring cleans • Oven clean • Windows

Pictured, Carly and Bri from A Good Little Thing were over the moon to be named Finalists for 2023

Are you passionate about farming and agriculture but don’t want to start a business from scratch?

Does owning an established business with an exceptional brand interest you?

Please send your expression of interest to us at yolkydokey@bigpond.com

• Commercial cleaning

Professional Home Cleaning • General housekeeping: washing, Hospitality Trained change beds, tidy, sort cupboards Reliable

Sarah’s Domestic Bliss Cleaning is locally owned and operated.

We pride ourselves on doing things properly.

Our business offers a reliable and professional service at Personal Touch! with flexibility to meet our customers’ needs.

Sarah has been growing her business since July 2013 and is proud of the great team of staff working with her.

All staff have current police checks and are fully trained.

Sarah’s Domestic Bliss Cleaning is fully insured.

Mobile: 0417 321 860 | Email: sarahdomesticbliss@bigpond.com ( 110 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

580 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge | P: 0458 130 597 mornington PENINSULA Magazine

A shopping experience that’s right up your alley If you haven’t already discovered Artisan’s Alley, then make sure you hunt it out. It’s tucked away next to Store Fifteen café so you can browse while you wait for your coffee. It has been closed for fire repair work but has reopened with a celebration of colour and style.

The shop features more than 30 artists, makers and designers, each displaying their own unique products. These are carefully curated highquality items with stories that travel with them to create talking points in your home.

It’s a large, winding space with a soothing and engaging atmosphere, so take your time to explore each area with ranges that include homewares, artworks, skin care, jewellery, clothing, candles, and furniture. There are pop-up spaces that change regularly with four to five new displays to discover each month, meaning every visit reveals something different.

17 Main St, Mornington T: 5976 8742 W: www.artisansalley.com.au E: info@artisansalley.com.au FB: artisansalleymornington INSTA: artisans_alley_mornington

Artisan’s Alley is pet-friendly, so you’re welcome to bring them in with you. They might even get to meet one of the shop dogs while you chat to whichever maker is in store that day. All of the makers spend at least one day a month in store so you can meet the artisans and hear what inspires them, what they are currently working on, and which of the areas is theirs.

This is a fantastic opportunity to both shop local and support local. The winner of the 2023 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Award for retail, Artisan’s Alley is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am-5pm and Sundays 10am-4pm.

Green Bowl salad bar - Mt Martha Gluten free, Plant based-Vegan healthy takeaway Open Tuesdays & Fridays, 3-6 pm in the village, under the clock tower Instagram @thegreenbowl_salads | FB The Green Bowl - Mt Martha www.thegreenbowl.com.au

Dolphin and Seal Snorkel Tours

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

1.5 Hour wildlife sightsee Tour | Luxury Private Cruises for all events www.moonrakerdolphinswims.com.au | P. 5984 4211 www.mpmag.com.au 111 )

health, beauty, fashion

Sportscraft a perfect fit for Mornington For more than 100 years, Sportscraft has been renowned for outstanding quality and consistently superior fit. Proudly Australian owned and designed, Sportscraft embodies the very best of our unique and active lifestyle. With the aim of crafting modern classics that are both functional and beautiful, Sportscraft believes in the timelessness of a good fit. ( 112 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Sportscraft was founded in Victoria in 1914, which is why the company was so proud to announce the opening of its newest store in Mornington on December 16.

“We look forward to joining the community,” a spokeswoman said. “Shoppers will have the opportunity to browse our latest stock, meet our friendly local stylists and complete their shopping with one of Australia’s most trusted fashion and lifestyle brands.”

SPORTSCRAFT MORNINGTON A: Shop 2, 117/113 Main St, Mornington W: www.sportscraft.com.au FB: Sportscraft INSTA: sportscraft mornington PENINSULA Magazine

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113 )

Frame your summer in style

at Main Street Eyecare Experience the epitome of summer style at Main Street Eyecare. Now permanently located on Barkly St, the store has been renovated for an enhanced shopping experience. Under the guidance of owner Kay Tyrie, the team at Main Street Eyecare are renowned for their personalised service, taking the time to discover the perfect frame colour and shape to complement your unique style and personality.

As summer approaches, explore eyewear that combines style and functionality, offering

UV protection without compromise. Ochis eyeglasses from Kyiv, Ukraine, are crafted with precision from recycled coffee grinds and natural materials, delivering both comfort and UV protection while also contributing to a greener future for the people of Kyiv.

The store features an exclusive selection of eyewear including the iconic Gotti rimless glasses worn by Oprah Winfrey, the vibrant Sabine Be collection, British brand Kirk and Kirk, The Elusive Miss Lou, and bespoke Roger Henley frames from Adelaide.

Elevate your summer look and ensure your eye health with a regular check-up by booking a personalised appointment at Main Street Eyecare.

MAIN STREET EYECARE A: Shop 7/68 Barkly St, Mornington T: 5975 3235 FB: mainstreeteyecare3931 INSTA: mainstreeteyecare

MainStreet EyeCare

Shop 7, 68 Barkly St, Mornington | P. 5975 3235

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mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Award-winning Saya Medispa is a dream come true for owner AleshiaAnn Fowler. Established in 2014, Saya has been a thriving destination for locals to relax and enjoy some muchneeded ‘me-time’. On entry, you’re greeted by a relaxed island feel, with lush greenery, striking decor in natural tones and an inviting atmosphere.

Wander past the tranquil water feature to one of the treatment rooms or head upstairs to our relaxation area and spoil yourself with a facial that has been upgraded to focus on luxury with results-driven treatments.

Earlier this year Saya was thrilled to receive an award for Highest Annual Growth at the PBS Skin Summit.

We pride ourselves on client comfort and satisfaction. We want you to feel confident knowing that we are here for you. At Saya, you’re not just a number; you become part of the Saya family. We have had some incredible skin transformations with our advanced skin treatments as well as being involved in our clients’ special events, from weddings to graduations and award nights.

We have created an environment at Saya that promotes relaxation for both men and women, and we’ve opened a beautiful couples treatment room that has been very popular. Everyone deserves some self-care.

SAYA MEDISPA A: 70 Station St, Somerville T: 5977 6790 W: www.sayamedispa.com.au FB: sayamedispa INSTA: sayamedispa

Saya Medispa, your taste of paradise on the Peninsula! A place for you to feel complete relaxation and serenity.

Indulge in one of our many treatments from pure relaxation to more advanced results driven treatments.

Let the therapists at Saya pamper you from head to toe while you embrace all that Saya has to offer.

70 Station St, Somerville | P. 5977 6790 www.sayamedispa.com.au Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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115 )

Cnr Cranbourne Rd and Olive Grv, Frankston

Happy New You at Contour My Body

Now the Christmas season is over, it’s time to shift the focus to yourself.

If looking good and feeling healthy is important to you, Contour My Body can help you reach your goal.

Since the body sculpting salon’s opening last October, clients have been delighted with the visible transformation achieved after just six sessions of treatment with the revolutionary CM Slim – the latest Electromagnetic Muscle Stimulation contouring device. One of the few EMS devices registered in Australia as TGA-approved, CM Slim is a premium professional product designed for body shaping, muscle toning and fat reduction, performing the equivalent of up to 30,000 painless crunches or squats during a 30-minute treatment, while clients sit back without raising a sweat.

For those whose priority is strengthening pelvic rather than stomach muscles, the HIPEX Chair is another non-invasive treatment delivering noticeable health benefits without effort or discomfort.

Give yourself the gift of confidence this New Year and visit Contour My Body today. It’s open MondayWednesday 9am-5pm, ThursdayFriday 9am-7pm and Saturday 10am-2pm.

CONTOUR MY BODY A: 1A Albert St, Mornington T: 0434 202 466 W: www.contourmybody.com.au E: admin@contourmybody.org INSTA: contour_my_body

• TGA approved and trademarked Electromagnetic technology body sculpting • Strengthen and tone muscles, including pelvic floor strengthening • Speeds up metabolism and fat breakdown of treated areas • CLINICALLY PROVEN

Located within Zenith Wellness building 1a Albert St, Mornington Book your free consultation today... www.contourmybody.com.au Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

0434 202 466

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117 )

Sizzlin’ summer sounds:

The 2023 Queenscliff Music Festival on November 26 drew music-lovers from far and wide. The dancing and good times did not let up as young and old were treated to a wonderful range of acts and entertainment that included Boy & Bear, Dan Sultan, Liz Stringer and more. Stay logged on to www.qmf.net.au for 2024 line-up announcements and tickets.

Photos: Queenscliff Music Festival/Lucinda Goodwin

( 118 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

2024 STARS

by Stephanie Johnson

Stephanie is an experienced Astrologer and regular contributor to

Mornington Peninsula Magazine. seeingwithstars.net P: 0411 2555 77

Aries: The start of the calendar year sees you setting

Leo: This year your partnerships are due for an upgrade starting on January 21. Powerful Pluto moves into Aquarius – your opposite Zodiac Sign – and sparks fly. It’s time to discover whether you have a dance partner, someone moving in step with you, or if you have a sparring partner. Pluto helps you discover the emotional truth. Your love life fares well from July 12 to August 5 as Venus moves through Leo. July may also see the start of a creative project. Perhaps you are considering a creative partnership. If so, this is a powerful union with soul purpose.

Sagittarius: Imagine a lighthouse. Its beams of light illuminate different sections of the ocean at night, sometimes revealing the vast and magical ocean and then occasionally revealing a ship or other object on the surface. This is the same as the planets. Most of the year involves you navigating the ocean of life. And then occasionally something or someone crops up. In January, Venus, the goddess of love, is in your Zodiac Sign heralding positive vibes for your love life. This goddess also boosts your monetary mood. You need only be careful not to spend your extra income.

Taurus: What is the big picture for 2024? Do you want

Virgo: January sees you enjoying time with family at home. Of course, you may consider some of your close friends to be family. If so, then you are likely to delight in their company at home or nearby. Children, creative projects and the arts are featured. Serious Saturn may cast a shadow on your primary partnership but also gives you the strength to work on any problems and strengthen or break your tie. Mid-year is your zenith with your ruling planet Mercury travelling through Virgo for an extended period from July 26 to September 9.

Gemini: 2024 is split into two halves. As a Gemini you are adept at dealing in twos. January starts with life in a slower mode as you enjoy time with loved ones at home or in a holiday venue. You can relax and go with the flow. At the end of May you switch gears. You are ready to expand your horizons. The lucky planet Jupiter moves into your Zodiac Sign, giving you a real boost.

You could take to the skies and travel, embark on an adventure over land or seas, or begin a new chapter in your life.

Libra: At the start of every calendar year the Sun sits

Capricorn: The big news for Capricorns is that Pluto moves out of your Zodiac Sign on January 21 and only returns for a relatively short time from September 2-November 20. By the end of 2024 you will be clear of Pluto’s influence for the first time since January 2008. You can now look back on these years and see the changes that you have made, either voluntarily or because change has been forced on you. Your personal transformation and achievements can be celebrated.

There may be some emotional fallout but you are now on a clear road and can see the way forward.

your sights on your true north and going full steam ahead. Others may be recuperating after a busy 2023 but you are fired up. Your career, parenthood and public roles are all highlighted in January. A lunar eclipse on March 25 heralds a pivotal point in the year. And communications ramp up from March 10-May 16 as Mercury travels through your Zodiac Sign. You may be working on a mentally challenging project. Your ruling planet Mars gives you a real burst of energy as it transits Aries from May 1-June 9. to travel, study, or spend more time on your spiritual pathway? January is the month for you to make plans.

Your self-confidence is high. You need only find the funds. You should receive a financial boost as your ruling planet Venus moves through your Zodiac Sign from April 29-May 24. And you could take off on a long journey when Venus is in the 9th House of your Solar Chart in November. Otherwise, feisty Mars can propel you out of your comfort zone from June 9-July 21.

Cancer: January sets the scene for a year focused on

your relationship status. As a lunar person your loved ones are always front and centre. And yet at times, like your Zodiac symbol the crab, you feel vulnerable and need to dig down deep into your own home. You need a special someone who understands your needs, so set your sights on your primary partnership. If you are single, who are you looking for and how are you going to attract another human to share your life? If you are in a committed relationship, does this person tick all of the boxes?

( 120 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

in the 4th House of your Solar Chart. This is the sector connected to home and family. So every January you wish for loving and warm family time. And, as usual, you are the mediator and the person who offers the olive branch to ensure quality time for conflicting parties. This year sees you enjoy a holiday at home with loved ones or shared accommodation in a holiday resort. If this does not take place you may plan an outof-season spring clean. You can zhuzh up areas in your living quarters.

Scorpio: Setting intentions at the start of the calendar

year doesn’t work for everyone, but it is just the right time for Scorpios. January is your power month for manifesting. A positive mindset puts you on the right track for 2024. You may like to take a short trip; a change of scenery can give a fresh perspective. Or perhaps a short course also boosts your positive objectives. The idea is to focus on the steps that you need to take to attain your aims. Reading, writing, journalling, drawing and suchlike can also be helpful.

Aquarius: Are you ready for a new chapter in your life?

Have you already had hints of the changes that may be occurring during 2023? The transformative planet Pluto enters your Zodiac Sign on January 21. And apart from a short break from September 2 to November 20, it remains for many years to come. This is your chance to embrace people and projects that are close to your heart. You need to dig deep and face the truth. People will come and go during this time, and you need to remain firmly grounded in your own integrity.

Pisces: January is a social month. Your calendar fills with celebrations with friends and colleagues. There is a serious overtone for you, as serious Saturn is in your Zodiac Sign. Nevertheless, you are able to rest and relax at the start of the year. Your love life picks up from March 12 to April 5 as the planet of love, Venus, transits Pisces. And you also receive a boost of energy from March 23 to May 1 when the planet of action, Mars, travels through your Zodiac Sign. A lunar eclipse in Pisces on September 18 sparks insights in your way forward.

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Long-acting ‘set and forget’ contraception methods Implanon is a matchstick-like rod containing the hormone progesterone and is placed under the skin of the upper arm. Usually, your GP will insert the device using local anaesthetic. A small amount of the hormone is slowly released into the bloodstream every day, preventing pregnancy.

Implanon prevents pregnancy for about three years.

After this, your GP can replace the device with a new one. You can have it removed any time if you are wanting to try for a baby or if you are experiencing unwanted side effects. Many people prefer its longterm nature because they don’t have to remember to take a pill every day. When it is removed, there is an immediate return to fertility.

IUDs are usually inserted by a doctor. This procedure takes little time and is done while you are awake, although some people opt to have it done under sedation at a day hospital. IUDs can be easily removed by your doctor any time. Again, it is important that you discuss your medical history with your doctor to ensure you are suitable for an IUD. DR ANITA MOSS, GP obstetrician – founder, Sexual Health Options

2024 Learn Tai Chi Enjoy the calmness and stillness of tai chi while gently exercising the body and the brain.

Classes held in Mt Martha and Somerville 6 days a week Beginners through to advanced levels All welcome For more information call 0418 566 216 or visit www.risingmoontaichi.net

Breathe. Relax. Enjoy.

The Implanon can make your periods go away completely, or you will have a very light period. This will return to your normal cycle once removed.

An IUD is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs; the latter is also known as the copper IUD. Hormonal IUDs contains slow-release progesterone, which thins the lining of the uterus and makes it difficult for a fertilised egg to implant; it also thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

They are 99 per cent effective in preventing pregnancy.

Hormonal IUDs last five years and can be replaced once expired. IUDs can also be removed any time by your GP, and you will have an immediate return to fertility.

Many people don’t have periods or have very light periods with the hormonal IUDs because the lining of the womb is so thin there is nothing to shed. The Mirena IUD is the first-line treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding because it reduces blood loss each month.

Copper IUDs last five to 10 years, and the copper they contain is toxic to eggs and sperm. However, you will still have your period every month and sometimes they will get a bit heavier, so it might not be the best option if you already have heavy periods Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

www.mpmag.com.au

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MARKETS We try to confirm all markets with organisers before publication, however, we are not responsible for late changes.

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 JANUARY 6 Red Hill Community Market: Red Hill Recreation Reserve; 8am-2pm The Mornington Festival: 300+ stalls, animal farm &

face painting for kids; Racecourse Rd, Mornington SUNDAY JANUARY 7 Boneo Lions Club Sunday Market: Rosebud foreshore opposite Fourth Ave; first Sunday of month, 7am-1pm The Mornington Festival: 300+ stalls, animal farm &

face painting for kids; Racecourse Rd, Mornington

SATURDAY JANUARY 13 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 JANUARY 20 Boneo Community Market: third Saturday of the month, cnr Boneo and Limestone roads, 8am- noon Emu Plains Market: more than just a market, bringing together the community for a monthly festival-like feast, Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring Racecourse, Balnarring 9am-2pm SUNDAY JANUARY 21 Point Nepean Portsea Market: Portsea Quarantine

Station, Point Nepean National Park; 9am-2pm FRIDAY JANUARY 26 (AUSTRALIA DAY) Mt Martha South Beach Market: Makers, creators,

foodies & shakers are all at this spectacular beachside street food & handmade makers’ market with 60 stalls.

Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, 10am-2pm Next Market - Saturday 13th January

SATURDAY JANUARY 27 Dromana Community Market: family-friendly experience, fresh seasonal produce & locally crafted products; Dromana Community Park, Point Nepean Rd; 8am-1.30pm Little Beauty Twilight Market: filled to the brim with awesomeness Little Beauty features 120+ of Melbourne’s very best creatives, foodies and musos; dogs welcome; 3-8pm Mornington Racecourse Twilight Craft Market: 300+ stalls, festive atmosphere, delicious eats; Racecourse Rd, 3pm-8pm 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, 9am-1pm SUNDAY JANUARY 28 Mt Eliza Farmers’: Mount Eliza Village Green; fourth

Sunday of month, 9am-1pm 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

( 122 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

food wine produce Local producers are making their mark Peninsula people have always found ways of taking a raw product and transforming it into something more delicious, more valuable. The early fishermen working the bays would salt and dry their catch and send barrels of saltfish to the goldfields. Today, Peninsula winemakers have a global reputation for crushing and fermenting local grapes and sending their wines around the world. Even more so, the Mornington Peninsula is becoming known for a vast range of products made and grown right here.

While there are fewer orchardists than decades ago, a new generation of apple growers is turning their fruit into juice, fermenting it into popular cider, and even making outstanding apple cider vinegar. From easy-to-drink appley bubbles to serious French-style dry ciders, local cider makers are winning awards nationwide. In fact, the annual Red Hill Cider Show is one of the biggest in the country.

Go to an industrial estate behind any one of the seaside suburbs and you will find a distiller. From glamourous jewel box-like cellar doors to grungier operations run by young guns, the Peninsula has more than its fair share of producers of gin, vodka, and even whisky the Scots would be proud of.

We’re also home to some of the best non-alcoholic beverages in the country, serious drinks made with native botanicals that are poured in top restaurants across Australia.

Summer truffle hunting at Red Hill Join us in January for black summer truffle hunting.

Packages include truffle tastings, wood-fired pizza with summer truffle.

Must be booked via website. a. 235 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill p. 0417 190 193 e. jennymcauley@redhilltruffles.com

www.redhilltruffles.com Friday - Sunday 10am - 4pm

Like many great food cultures, the Peninsula is blessed with some great cheesemakers. For years we’ve had talented people armed with the skills to transform great, fresh milk into outstanding cheese. Some are small farmhouse operations where you can see the goats being milked. You can taste a fresh chevre or firm halloumi ready for the grill there. Some celebrate their European roots by making great table cheeses but also health-giving kefir made from organic milk.

With excellent access to berry fruit and fresh veg, it is no wonder there are many conserve makers and fermenting enthusiasts around. From strawberry jam just waiting to top a scone with cream to chefs with kitchens dedicated to take-home meals, they are all making the most of local produce.

FARM F

FREE R RESH The Peninsula has EGG ANGE WHOLSE AT many great preservers, ALE PRICES conservers, makers and S! value-adders. It is a place where people practise traditional food-making and preserving arts. It is BAGGED also a place of innovation MANUR E where new products are $5 made, packaged, and V I LLE sent to every corner of the country and around the world. We are all very proud of the people who produce food and drink that is ‘Peninsula-made’.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Bryants Organic Produce

Bryants Organic Produce is a farm gate, providing Certified Organic Vegetables.

The family run farm offers good old-fashioned service and a wide range of fruit and vegetables. It has been operating for over 30 years on the Mornington Peninsula.

Barn doo Monday r sales to 8am - 4 Friday :30 & Saturd pm 8am - 12 ays :30pm

EGG FARM LOCAL FOOD FOR LOCAL TABLES

5977 5405

220 Eramosa Rd West, Moorooduc Corner of Binnak Way E. admin@somervilleeggfarm.com.au

201 Old Cape Schanck Rd, Boneo Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 9am - 1pm P. 0419 333 776 www.mpmag.com.au

123 )

Entertainment for all: Frankston Arts Centre has

Pictured left to right: Claire Warrillow from The Sunshine Club; Brenda Bressed from Drag Bingo Brunch with Brenda; Brenda Bressed, second from right, with Fem Belling, Nina Ferro, Belinda Parsons and Stella Anning from A Very Big Band Christmas.

unveiled a sparkling line-up for season 2024 with a focus on compelling, world-class entertainment to provide something for everyone. The impressive new program was announced to 2024 members at an event on November 21.

Summer Hours

Mon-Sun 11am-5pm Sat 11am-6pm

Gin High Tea

Every Sunday - $95pp Bookings essential

New

Cocktail Paddles

40 Collins Rd, Dromana | 5989 3154 | www.bassandflindersdistillery.com Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

SHOP 2/87 MOUNT ELIZA WAY, MOUNT ELIZA www.mpmag.com.au

125 )

Photo Lyndall Kennedy

An iconic image of summers past, the appearance of an ice-cream van at the beach transports many of us back to childhood. It’s a feeling of nostalgia frequently confided to Susie Papaioannou, the operator of Whipitup Icecream, as she passes softserve cones from the window of her van to smiling customers below.

When the days are warm, Susie can be found at Mount Martha Beach North providing holiday revellers with cool refreshment. A world away from her previous 35-year career in shipping and logistics, Susie loves the joy she’s now able to bring others.

Following in the footsteps of her hardworking Greek parents, themselves owners of various milk bars and ice-cream vans, Susie switched to the role shortly after lockdown, desiring greater work/life balance.

O’Connor can be found supporting grassroots community sport during the colder months. The Langwarrin and Mount Martha football clubs enjoy the hot jam doughnuts and sponsorship provided

by Whipitup Icecream.

At the beach or at the footy oval, wherever you see Susie in her van, roll up and grab a treat.

Susie and her fiancé and business CEO Michael

DANIELLE DAVEY

Every day’s a delight at Stillwater Make the most of the summer sun with Stillwater’s extended opening hours. Until the end of January, we will be open every day for lunch in the restaurant and for casual dining on the terrace (weather permitting).

The perfect venue for any special celebration 25 Harrisons Rd, Dromana | www.stillwateratcrittenden.com.au info@stillwateratcrittenden.com.au | P. 03 5981 9555 | Insta @stillwater_at_instagram ( 126 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Frankston Brewhouse

welcomes new head chef Frankston Brewhouse is buzzing with excitement as chef Damien Hill takes the lead. Damien brings a twist of sophistication to familiar dishes, making them a bit fancy, fun and super-delicious.

Having been in the industry for more than 15 years, Damien delivers top-notch dishes and dining experiences, and his new summer menu doesn't disappoint. Bursting with vibrant and fresh dishes such as miso mac & cheese, cured salmon, mushroom ceviche, and blueberry and gorgonzola flatbread pizza, there is something for everyone. Just don't forget to leave room for dessert.

Cultivated to complement our brews and appeal to our love for socialising, our menu has been designed to be a shared grazing experience. Cheers to that!

FRANKSTON BREWHOUSE A: 10 New St, Frankston T: 9001 0010 W: www.frankstonbrewhouse.com.au FB: frankstonbrewhouse INSTA: frankstonbrewhouse

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PENINSULA’S TOP DROPS

Summer hangouts to visit, picnics, and what wine I’ll be sipping on Recently I had my mum and sister pop over from New Zealand for a quick long weekend and we were fortunate enough to have a cracker few days of sunny, welcome to summer weather. So the agenda became a quick art gallery fix, a meander in Flinders, and a stop at Montalto in Red Hill for a bit of lunch.

It had been a while since I had visited Montalto, but I was instantly reminded how easy and relaxed it can be there in the piazza, sitting among the kitchen garden and looking out over the vines and sculptures in the distance.

It was a perfect place to go on a Monday, which gave us our pick of a table. We shared a few small tapasstyle plates of food, including kingfish crudo (ceviche), polenta chips, duck and cherry pate, and cauliflower croquets. I chose a French variety called sauvignon to match. It’s a little outside the norm, but it’s a pretty cool style with lovely texture, refreshing acidity, floral notes, and a subtle savoury finish.

So with Montalto offering private picnics around the amazing property, it reminded me of how good picnics are this time of year – unless it’s 30C-plus and then we are usually at the beach with an Esky. There are so

So what will I be drinking, you ask. Well, a summer picnic wouldn’t be complete without a nice glass of cold rosé to start, as it will go well with a spread of charcuterie, cheese and crackers, chips and dips. I am enjoying the Port Phillip Solassa Rosé at the moment; it is fresh with crisp acidity and lovely red summer fruits, rounded out with a bit of barrel fermentation for texture and depth.

If rosé is not your style, try a fruit-forward pinot gris with a bit of body, but with fresh acidity to the wine to

cut through the richer traditional picnic fare. Try Quealy Tussie Mussie, Musk Creek Pinot Gris or 10X from Ten Minutes by Tractor. If none of these appeal, crack open your fave Peninsula bubbles.

Enjoy your next picnic adventure, and as usual you can find a good selection of local wines in store at Dan Murphy’s Mornington, including the Solassa Rosé and all the gris mentioned.

For Montalto picnic info, head to www.montalto.com. au/pages/picnics and Kerri Greens www.kerrigreens. com/ for further details.

Until next time, enjoy your wine journey.

NIGEL STREET

This stunning book features over 120 restaurants, cafes, breweries, wineries, distilleries, produce professionals and growers

e st hav A mu e foodi y r e v for e

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If you’re keen for a little more space or have a big group, a great go-to is Seawinds Gardens at the top of Arthurs Seat. There is ample room to choose from, a beaut kids’ play area, barbecues if you prefer a snag, a kangaroo or two hopping around and plenty of trees to sit under for shade.

ANNUAL LOCAL FOODIES GUIDE OUT NOW

nsula

S DE LIC IOU

If you like to cater for yourself but still visit a winery and settle in, then I suggest visiting Kerri Greens where you can BYO picnic food and rugs. Better still, book a table for $15 that includes a glass of their wine or beer on arrival and still BYO picnic platter. Try their Museum Blanc de Blanc sparkling or one of three chardonnays on offer if you can get them, as they often sell out – not to mention their rosé; it’s also a cracker but sells out fast.

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many picnic options around the Peninsula you can visit with family and friends; let someone else cater for you or bring your own spread.

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( 128 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

INCLUDES WINE TOURING MAP & PRODUCE & FARM GATE MAP

Just $20 per book For stockists or to order yours online go to www.eatdrinkmp.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

With a slice of luck you’re off to Italy

Brendon’s Cakes

@brendons_cakes

Award-winning Italian restaurant chain 400 Gradi is giving Peninsula residents the chance to win a dream trip to Italy simply by eating a pizza.

Customers will need to dine at 400 Gradi before March 15 and scan the QR code provided on their receipt to enter. They must also be following @400gradi_au and @brunofinefoods on Instagram. The winner, who will be drawn at random and announced on March 20 on Instagram and by email, will receive two return flights to Naples, three nights’ accommodation in Naples for two, and a guided tour of the Latteria Sorrentina cheese factory.

To be eligible, applicants must be 18 or older, live in Australia, and have a valid passport at the time of travel, which must be between May and December this year. They can also dine at any 400 Gradi restaurant in Australia except 400 Gradi Crown Melbourne.

For full terms and conditions, go to 400gradi.ubpages.com/enter-to-win

100 Wilsons Rd Mo

rnington Ph: 5975

8094

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FAMILY CUSTARD TART present this ad to receive one for only $5! *Limit to one per customer

Valid until 31-01-2024

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ALL DAY EATERY AND BAR EVERY THURSDAY 2 FOR 1 COCKTAILS MOD OZ MENU | TAPAS | SEAFOOD | GROUP BOOKINGS Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 7AM DINNER THURSDAY TO SUNDAY

9024 0138 131 Nepean Hwy, Seaford www.38southseaford.com.au www.mpmag.com.au

129 )

property home garden What are days on market and why is it important?

The DOM, or days on market, is the number of days a property will typically spend advertised for sale before eventually selling.

The time length of the advertising period represents the DOM and, combined with the DOM of other properties, has a direct bearing on property market prices. DOM is therefore an important consideration for vendors, buyers and real estate agents and the single most influential factor affecting price.

In the same way commodities are affected by supply and demand, so is the property market. In a hot market, such as during COVID, properties are purchased quickly.

This results in a low DOM and is a clear sign demand is exceeding supply. Conversely, if there is no buyer interest in a property, the home will sit on the market for a longer time. Even with strong buyer interest, if there are too many properties for sale it will take a long time for all of them to sell. That means the DOM figure will be high, and the

prices achieved will be lower.

Actual days on market figures can be skewed by agents forgetting to remove listings, vendors swapping agents, properties being sold off-market, and intentional de-listing and re-listing of properties. Individual properties may also perform differently to the average DOM because of overpricing, under-pricing or uniqueness.

What is clear is that the average DOM is currently extending. During COVID, the DOM was as low as seven days in some areas, but is now lengthening to more than 70 days in parts of Australia.

Back in December 2014, a DOM of 150 days was considered normal, as 60 days was considered normal back in 2020 pre-COVID. Understanding the market and considering your own financial goals are key to making good decisions around buying and selling property.

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 In January 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.

The clever Aura recliner chair from himolla. This small occasional chair Enjoy warm summer nights with transforms into a wonderfully the rattan Sanur Designer Chair comfortable recliner chair through its hidden head and foot rest. Available OZ DESIGN FURNITURE Personable Mornington interior with either manual or motor option and MORNINGTON design studio specializing in exquisite currently on promotion, from $3495 in HomeCo Peninsula, 1128-1132 tiles and Bathware design, welcome the Luduco Living January sale.

Nepean Highway, Mornington to all T: 8560 1137 LUDUCO LIVING LIFESTILES DESIGN STUDIO www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au HomeCo Peninsula, 1128-1132 Nepean 19 Progress St Mornington FB: OZDesignFurniture Highway, Mornington T: 5976 3507 www.lifestilesds.com INSTA: ozdesignfurniture P: 5975 4899

( 130 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

au/vip-area, then check out @MornPenMag on Facebook and Instagram to complete all the entry steps on the competition post.

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Bespoke Peninsula living At Voller Builders, we take pride in delivering high-quality homes exceeding our clients' expectations. We are committed to using the latest technology and construction techniques, ensuring that your home is not only beautiful but also built to last.

We understand that building a new home can be a daunting task, which is why we offer a full-service approach. From the initial design consultation to the final walkthrough, we are with you every step of the way, handling all aspects of the construction process, including support with permits, co-ordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring that your home is built to exacting standards.

Our latest design, the Gwendoline, presents single-level living on a smaller footprint, simplifying life for slower-paced living. With all living spaces on one level, you'll no longer have to worry about navigating stairs or maintaining multiple floors. The Gwendoline offers the perfect balance of functionality and simplicity, making it the ideal home for those looking to downsize without sacrificing their quality of living.

Visit our website or call us to arrange a virtual walkthrough of our Voller Homes.

VOLLER BUILDERS T: 5987 3231 W: www.vollerbuilders.com.au E: office@vollerbuilders.com.au INSTA: voller_builders Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

www.mpmag.com.au

131 )

Renovations and extensions from concept to completion Inspirations by name and inspirational by nature, Abode Inspirations is a unique boutique building company that can take your project from concept to completion.

Abode Inspirations mainly builds high to upper-end extensions, architecturally designed with an exacting sense of style and detail. The company boasts more than 30 years’ experience, predominately based in southeast Melbourne but over recent years it has moved into the Mornington Peninsula, delighting homeowners with its stylish, tailored solutions for period and modern extensions.

Abode Inspirations’ primary goal is to renovate and extend your home so the design is enduring, maximising the potential of your spaces and above all reflecting your own style and personality. It is committed to a ‘customer-first’ approach and has a proven history of outstanding results.

This is intelligent design, a tailored design and construction solution for each and every client.

Every project is individual and the solutions are bespoke;

from start to finish, everything is managed professionally with a truly stress-free design and construction process.

This turnkey builder will take your ideas from concept to design, handling plans, permits, and all construction right through to handover.

Abode Inspirations has been an HIA finalist in recent years and has completed more than 400 projects as a true boutique builder with a great relationship with suppliers and tradespeople. All its carpenters are full-time employees, not subcontractors, and some have been with the company for more than 20 years so they really understand what customers in this high end of the market require.

If you are looking for an architecturally-designed extension with the minimum of fuss and everything from town planning through to completion all organised, then Abode Inspirations is the one to call. The team at Abode Inspirations will add real value to your home in both capital improvement and lifestyle.

ABODE INSPIRATIONS T: 9813 8833 W: www.abodeinspirations.com.au

Black timber and natural rattan

the perfect pair As the year has come to a close, it presents the perfect opportunity to revamp and rejuvenate the appearance of our homes. There is an undeniable sense of freshness and renewal that accompanies the start of a new year, and what better way to embrace this fresh start than by giving your home a muchneeded makeover. As we step into the year 2024, it's the perfect time to revitalise your living space and infuse it with a new and exciting look.

One of our favourite current trends is the pairing of black timber furniture with rattan accents. This combination not only adds a touch of elegance to any space, it also creates a striking contrast that catches the eye. The juxtaposition of the dark, rich tones of the black timber with the natural, earthy

( 132 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

hues of rattan brings a sense of depth and warmth to the overall aesthetic.

Styled here with the Megs Wishbone chairs, the latest Cortez dining table is crafted from solid pine and finished with a light sand blast to show off the gorgeous timber texture. Featuring tapered edges and sculptural legs for a decorative element, Cortez stands out from the rest. Paired with a jute rug, this dining setting boasts a beautiful bold look while remaining homely. For the finishing touches, style with an abstract art piece and simple minimal décor.

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 mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Elevate your lifestyle with Ecostar Double Glazing

As a region known for its stunning natural beauty, the Mornington Peninsula offers a unique lifestyle.

With Ecostar Double Glazing, you can fully enjoy your surroundings without worrying about extreme weather conditions or energy costs. As we approach the festive season, consider this investment in your home as a gift that keeps on giving: comfort, energy efficiency, and a brighter future for our environment.

Up to 21% off + Fre Flyscreens e EXTENDED to January 31 st T&Cs apply

Don’t let another summer or winter pass by without experiencing the benefits of Ecostar Double Glazing. Improve your home’s comfort, security and energy efficiency while adding value to your property.

There’s also never been a better to time to do so – until December 31, you can get up to 21 per cent off your double glazing as well as free flyscreens.

Terms and conditions apply.

Make the smart choice for your home, your family and our planet by embracing double glazing with Ecostar.

1300 963 231 85 Bazalgette Cres, Dandenong South www.ecostardoubleglazing.com.au sales@ecostardoubleglazing.com.au

Osprey’s beach-house apartments near completion at Martha Cove

Known for its premium construction at The Moorings, Wheelhouse and Boatyard D’Albora projects at Martha Cove, Figurehead Construction’s own apartment project, Osprey, is nearing completion at Martha Cove.

Osprey, in collaboration with Wolveridge Architects, aimed to create two and three-bedroom apartments inspired by the Peninsula beach house experience.

“Creating a building that simply belongs is the result of careful analysis of the local climate and an appreciation for the context of the area,” said Jerry Wolveridge, of Wolveridge Architects.

The breezeway entrance design in each floorplan provides crossflow ventilation and natural light, a place for shoes and towels, while preserving security.

With secure parking and storage options, lift access and maintained gardens, Osprey residents will be able to enjoy their own piece of breathtaking architecture and landscape without personal toll.

“The pleasures of enjoying life on the coast always come back to a few simple principles, and for the most part they are all linked with the idea of connecting ourselves to nature,” Jerry said. “Whether this is a view, a place in the sun, the smell of salty air, these are all things that improve our quality of life.”

Recently complete, Display Apartment 202 is now available for inspection as well as private tours of the six unique floorplans designed by Wolveridge.

To book a private inspection of the display apartment, contact Ian Ross on 0404 868 470.

Osprey marina apartments are available from $865,000.

OSPREY MARTHA COVE A: 15 Martha Cove Blvd, Safety Beach W: www.ospreymarthacove.com.au

( 134 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

During these wonderfully warming days of summer, home gardeners are eagerly anticipating the vibrant explosion of colours and flavours in their vegetable patches. However, this weather also brings with it the potential for unwelcome guests: pests and diseases that can threaten the health of your cherished plants. Fear not, for there are organic methods to keep your summer vegetable garden thriving without resorting to harsh chemicals.

One of the oldest tricks in the gardening book is companion planting, which involves strategically placing plants that complement each other to deter pests. For instance, planting basil alongside tomatoes can help ward off a number of pests and enhance the flavour of your tomatoes. Marigolds also, with their pungent aroma, are known to repel nematodes and other soil-borne pests.

Nature provides its own pest control squad. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings and predatory beetles to your garden. These tiny warriors feed on aphids, mites and other pesky invaders, keeping your vegetables safe and thriving.

Consider planting flowers such as dill, fennel or yarrow to attract and support these beneficial insects.

There are a number of organic spray alternatives that may assist if you have an outbreak. Derived from the neem tree, neem oil is a powerful tool in the organic gardener's arsenal. It acts as a natural pesticide and fungicide, disrupting the life cycle of pests and preventing the development of fungal diseases. Dilute neem oil according to the instructions and apply it to your plants, particularly the undersides of leaves where pests often hide.

Crafting your own organic sprays, however, can be both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. A simple solution of soapy water, made with mild, biodegradable soap, can effectively control soft-bodied pests such as aphids and spider mites. Alternatively, a mixture of garlic, onion and cayenne pepper in water creates

a potent spray that deters many common garden pests.

Diatomaceous earth is another beauty.

It is a fine powder and acts as a natural insecticide. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plants to create a barrier that damages the exoskeletons of crawling insects, such as slugs and snails.

Remember to reapply after rain, as it loses its effectiveness when wet.

Though it may not help you this season, changing the location of your crops each season will assist with many common pest and disease issues. Crop rotation is a timetested method for preventing soil-borne diseases. This disrupts the life cycle of pests and pathogens that may have overwintered in the soil. Plan your garden layout with care, rotating crops within plant families to maximise the benefits of this technique.

Another way to reduce the risk of garden problems is to plan your irrigation system well. Overhead watering can contribute to the spread of fungal diseases by creating a damp environment ideal for their development. Instead, water your plants at the base using a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose. This helps keep the foliage dry and reduces the risk of such diseases as powdery mildew.

Remember to regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection allows for swift and targeted action. Remove any affected leaves or plants promptly to prevent the issue from spreading. A watchful eye and proactive approach are your best allies in maintaining a healthy and productive summer vegetable garden.

By incorporating these organic pest and disease control methods into your summer gardening routine, you can nurture a thriving and bountiful vegetable patch while minimising the environmental impact. Embrace the harmony of nature in your garden and let the flavours of your organically grown vegetables shine through, unmarred by harsh chemicals.

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

Chill out in the shade this summer 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 springtensioned 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.

Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

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

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Everyday objects you’ll treasure forever lood is a manufacturing studio made up of a diverse range of makers with various skills who come together to create products that will delight. It’s the brainchild of Andrew Barber, who has recruited a small cohort of young engineers and designers to build depth in his business, and give them the opportunity to develop designs from conception to market.

than the process of making an object from the initial idea through all its trials and tribulations to culminate in a physical form.”

“We all have diverse backgrounds – engineering, furniture, interior, graphic and industrial design – but the common thread is we love making things,” Andrew said. “There is nothing better

LOOD T: 0406 146 652 W: www.lood.com.au E: info@lood.com.au

Andrew believes the materials and shapes that surround our everyday spaces should be beautiful and carefully considered. “Creativity and storytelling through design are reflected in each object we offer. “lood makes quality products that are special and lasting, products that engage you and are satisfying at every encounter. We want our objects to be treasured and appreciated for years to come. This informs our process through functional analysis of how it will be used and what resources are needed to make it. We also prioritise sustainability through quality and correct material choices.”

Large range of round, square and rectangular garden planters Long lasting quality built concrete products containing steel reo Supplying the Mornington Peninsula and throughout Victoria

Qualified experienced and accredited electricians Each job individually tailored and strategised Only proven high quality products

www.statewideconcreteproducts.com.au | P. 5979 3349 ( 138 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

www.ppelectrics.com.au

0406 638 089 mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Skye Lodge opens new community The new year brings new beginnings as Skye Lodge welcomes residents to its recently opened Reef Community. Fast becoming the aged care home of choice for the local and wider community, Skye Lodge is close to beautiful bayside beaches, golf clubs and essential services and shops.

Modern and extensive indoor and outdoor living spaces provide ample opportunity for residents to host family and friends, or just relax and unwind at their own leisure. The spacious, well-appointed bedrooms with ensuite provide privacy and comfort for all levels of care needs.

A comprehensive leisure and lifestyle program, including daily exercise, men’s groups, arts and crafts, pet therapy, outings and many more activities, ensures residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning their days. Seasonal menus created by an executive chef provide residents with fresh, tasty and highly nutritious meals, while the on-site boutique Pier Café has coffee, tea and snacks to be enjoyed by all.

The dedicated nursing and care team at Skye Lodge have an uncompromising determination

to ensure residents receive the highest quality of clinical care, standing by their promise of excellence for every resident every time. Contact Skye Lodge today on 1300 428 886 to discuss your care needs or book a tour.

AUTUMN AGED CARE – SKYE LODGE A: 175 McMahons Rd, Frankston T: 1300 428 886 W: www.autumnagedcare.com.au FB: AutumnAgedCare INSTA: autumnagedcare

Thinking of building?

Mornington Peninsula’s high-end custom build specialist

GSTRUCT GROUP specialises in high-end custom residential builds and large-scale bespoke transformations throughout the Mornington Peninsula and Inner Melbourne.

We would love to discuss your project and demonstrate how we can exceed your expectations.

Director: Glenn Longstaff | E. glenn@gstruct.com.au | P. 0412 504 225 ( 140 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

www.gstruct.com.au mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Don’t lose sleep over a hot, expensive mattress When it comes to choosing a mattress that will give you restful sleep every night for years to come, don’t be fooled by fake sales and phoney discounts.

There are retailers that mark up to mark down, offering mattresses with “thousands of dollars off” or “reduced by 50 per cent”. These mattresses never cost that much in the first place; the ‘sale’ price is the actual price of the mattress. So don’t be fooled by the phoney discount strategy into thinking the mattress is worth more than you are paying, because it’s not.

Similarly, beware the soft mattress. Fifteen minutes of soft in-store seduction becomes an eight-hour hot, sweaty nightmare at home. These mattresses have layers of foam in the top to create the soft feel, and they will become hot to sleep on. Hot sleep can cause nightmares and will cause increased perspiration, which will permeate the layers of foam and cause it to degrade and flatten.

When you buy your new mattress from Makin Mattresses, you’ll find no gimmicks – just top-quality mattresses with authentic manufacturers’ prices every day. Makin Mattresses’ mattresses are designed to ‘breathe’ for maximum air circulation, giving you maximum rest.

Trust the experts to deliver you a wonderful night’s sleep. Trust Makin Mattresses.

MAKIN MATTRESSES A: 189 Bay Rd, Sandringham T: 9533 1113 W: www.makinmattresses.com.au FB: MakinmattressesAu

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

The right window coverings will insulate your windows, resulting in greater control over the interior temperature of your home and significant savings on your power bills. Uncovered windows are responsible for up to 50 per cent of unwanted heat gain in summer. Luckily, dc+b specialises in a range of products that can make a difference to your energy consumption and your bank balance.

and sun protection, dc+b’s alfresco awnings are a modern awning system suited to all outdoor spaces.

Window awnings reduce sunlight and glare on your windows, and they also protect the inside of your home from sun damage and greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. They’ve been perfected for the Australian lifestyle by ensuring the design and quality are paramount.

DC+B A: Shop C4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington T: 5975 3655 E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au

It’s never been easier to create an all-inclusive outdoor space that can be enjoyed 365 days a year with our alfresco awnings. Essential for privacy

( 142 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

Contact dc+b’s Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for your free design, measure and quote.

Both shops are open Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm. If you’re building a new home, then dc+b can also provide expert advice and a free quote off your house plans.

A: Shop 15, Kingston Central Plaza, 288 Centre Dandenong Rd, Moorabbin Airport T: 9566 8200 E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds mornington PENINSULA Magazine

trades to you your guide to local tradespeople Supply – Install – Advice – Design Residential – Developments – Commercial

Skylights Tube Lights Roof Windows Solar Alternatives

Installation – Servicing

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 bathroom, why

Leaking shower specialist Pre-sale makeovers Mouldy showers re-grouted

highest readership = best results for you

Choose the peninsula’s longest running, largest circulation glossy

Damaged tiles replaced

BOOK YOUR CAMPAIGN NOW

Jorg Melzer | Owner Operator 0424 843 358 | melzer1@bigpond.com

P: 9708 8222

Silicone seals replaced

( 144 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

If you are a tradesperson looking to publicise your business to the Mornington Peninsula and Greater Frankston area, give us a call on 9708 8222. You will find we have super rates starting from $150 a month and editorial options for you to showcase what you offer to an engaged audience.

It’s not rocket science

Proudly servicing the Mornington Peninsula for 40 years

58 Brunel Rd, Seaford | P. 9786 9366 E: enquiries@garron.com.au www.garron.com.au

not take time to plan your renovations and request quotes from the businesses showcased here month after month. Whatever the job may be, we’ll have the trade for it. Just keep your eye on our Trades To You section and together we’ll support small businesses while getting our own little corner of the world looking more like a home than a house.

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

Say goodbye to your rotten timber windows The Stop the Rot motto is “We’ve never met a window we can’t fix”.

They have been repairing rotting timber windows across Melbourne’s Bayside suburbs for more than 20 years and have now expanded to the Mornington Peninsula.

homes. The technicians use their joinery skills to rebuild your window frames in situ rather than a short-term, unsightly DIY ‘painter’s fix’. This method is attempted by others but delivered only by the STR team of 12.

Their Peninsula team, led by senior technicians Aviv Peretz and local boy Josh Davis, will assess the damage to your windows and tailor Stop the Rot’s unique methodology to their repair and restoration. This proven method has been implemented by the company’s founders and developed over years repairing windows in some of Melbourne’s most exclusive suburbs and

Arrange a quote by visiting www.stoptherot.com. au

Stop the Rot is leaving a positive impact on the Peninsula community too with the announcement of a long-term sponsorship of the Red Hill Football Club, including major sponsorship of the club’s inaugural Pride Round.

STOP THE ROT A: Factory 8, 5-7 Braeside Drive, Braeside T: 9580 8933 W: www.stoptherot.com.au FB: stoptherotmelbourne INSTA: stoptherotmelbourne

We’ve never met a Got wood rot? window that we can’t fix.

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.

Phone

9580 8933 www.stoptherot.com.au Issue 146 JANUARY 2024

Servicing the Peninsula & surrounding suburbs

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Transform Your Outdoor Space with Passionate Garden & Lawn Care Services Your landscape should reflect your unique tastes, vision, and lifestyle – and be an extension of your home.

Let us work with you to build and maintain this sacred space so you can start enjoying the great outdoors in your own backyard.

One stop shop, outdoor living specialists

www.edenbl.com.au | P. 0493 504 935 | E. info@edenbl.com.au ( 146 Everything we love about the peninsula, fresh every month

mornington PENINSULA Magazine

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