Mornington Peninsula dog-groomer
Gemma Ann Rourke and Frankston youth worker Tully Wishart have made it into the top 50 of Australian Idol after successful auditions last month.
Although Harry Connick Jr said he “didn’t feel captivated” by Gemma Ann’s version of Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars, fellow judges Meghan Trainor, Amy Shark and Kyle Sandilands said “yes” to the 25-year-old going through to Idol’s next stage. “If I had the opportunity to do music full time, I’d absolutely take it,” said Gemma Ann, who has run her own business for six years. “I love
the dogs, but I get a sense of happiness when I’m singing.”
Accompanied by Ben on guitar, Gemma Ann’s performance won praise from Meghan. “Your voice is really beautiful,” she said. “Can’t believe you’ve just been grooming dogs when you can sing like that.” Gemma Ann, a big fan of the US singer-songwriter, responded by giving Meghan her earrings before leaving the stage, screaming in delight and FaceTiming her mum.
Meanwhile, musical talent must run in the Wishart family – Tully’s father Andrew is an X Factor runner-up – and all the judges gave Tully’s raspy-voiced version of The Black Keys’ Lonely Boy the thumbs up. “Nice work,” Kyle told him. “You filled up the space.” Meghan described the
performance as “grungy”, adding: “I liked it.”
Tully said he started singing only a couple of years ago and was trying to follow in his father’s footsteps. “I like to find the meaning in a song and connect to it,” he said. Asked why Australia should vote for him, he said: “I’m just an Aussie guy trying to do something I love. I’m hardworking, passionate, and I would love for Australia to get to know me better. I think my voice is different and I’m still discovering what I can do. It would be fun for everyone to discover it with me.”
You can catch Australian Idol each Sunday and Monday night on Channel 7 and 7plus.
Next month’s Drift Arts Festival will feature Tracee Hutchison and Lionel
Respect for Country and Culture will be centre stage at Drift Arts Festival’s opening night in Rosebud on April 21 with the screening of Healing Country alongside Uncle Archie and Aunty Ruby’s film Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow. It will be followed by a Q&A with Tracee and Lionel.
Lionel is co-founder and CEO of Living Culture, whose mission is to educate people about the importance of keeping Indigenous Culture alive. Tracee grew up on the Mornington Peninsula and has had a successful career as a broadcaster, journalist, radio/TV producer, filmmaker and author. Tracee and Lionel’s connection came through Uncle Archie and Aunty Ruby, to whom Lionel is family and who Tracee knew through her work in music and radio.
Tracee wanted to make Healing Country to enter in the 2022 Peninsula Film Festival to contribute a local story, particularly a First Nations story. “We’d come out of two years of COVID. There was a deep sense of wanting to connect again with nature and heal ourselves, and we’re gifted with this incredibly old, magnificent Culture and so it felt like that was the most obvious thing for me to do. So I talked to Lionel about the idea.”
Lionel says he agreed to make the film “for people to see the interdependence between us and the land. People often talk about nature as something abstract, but it’s not. We’re not above or removed from it, we’re part of it. This underpins everything we do at Living Culture, and making a movie was an opportunity to bring this message to a wider audience with people I trust”.
Tracee filmed Healing Country on an iPhone and edited it herself all in two weeks – a first for her – before going into the Peninsula Film Festival and coming third. Healing Country has also screened at the Toronto International Short Film Festival, SF3/Flickfest Melbourne, and Socially Responsible Film Festival in New York. It features the music of Peninsula singer-songwriter Marty Williams. A heartfelt highlight for Tracee, Lionel and Heidi was Healing
Country screening last year by invitation on the Uncle Archie Roach stage at the Port Fairy Folk Festival.
“Healing Country is a love story, and love is what binds us all at the end of the day,” Lionel says. “We need these stories told to keep them alive. What I do is share intergenerational cultural practices in a safe space.”
Lionel says Uncle Archie is one of his greatest teachers. “Uncle Archie’s guidance comes through his music, words, wisdom and love. He educates through his powerful songs and stories. He reminds all of us that we’re all sung from one song. He helped to open my eyes to Australia and what we need to change and how to do it. I saw how Uncle dealt with what life threw at him. Looking at him after all he went through and the way he carried himself, his forgiveness, he taught me that we can heal through sharing our stories. I am immensely proud to be able to share Wash My Soul in the River’s
Flow at the opening of Drift alongside other deadly First Nations creatives, artists and community.”
The evening will also feature a soundscape curated by First Nations sound artist Nathaniel Stewart, and music by First Nations musician Kee’ahn, whose name derives from the Wik word meaning to dance and to play. Kee’ahn honours their name and ancestors through their soulful music.
Drift opens on Friday, April 21, at Rosebud Village Green in The Village Tent. For more information, go to www. driftartsfestival.com.au
NIKKI FISHER“Grab a leaf – with respect to the plant – and have a smell of it,” says Lionel Lauch, Gunditjmara Kirrae WurrungBundjalung man in his award-winning film Healing Country, made with filmmaker Tracee Hutchison and coexecutive producer Heidi Duell.Lauch’s film Healing Country.
She's Electric, a groundbreaking initiative from Hyundai and Surfing Australia, is a first-of-its-kind leaderboard shining a light on talented female athletes at the grassroots level and elevating their profiles on a national stage. The leaderboard is based on performance, with eight state rounds leading to the creation of Team Electric, consisting of the top five ranking women who represent the future of women's surfing in Australia. Fourteen-year-old Mornington surfer Ava Holland, from the Peninsula Boardriders Club, is one of these breakout stars, ranked fourth in the country. Here she gives us an insight into what it’s like to be part of the next wave of surfers breaking barriers and challenging perceptions in the sport.
What inspired you to start surfing, and when did you first get on a board? I started surfing on family holidays. My dad has been a surfer all his life, and we always had surfboards with us when we went to the beach. At the age of 11 I started fully surfing and it just clicked, then surfing became my life.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a surfer, and how have you overcome them?
One of my challenges in my life is not living walking distance to the beach. That means I have to have all my chores done before Mum or Dad will agree to take me surfing. I’d surf all day if I was allowed.
How do you stay in shape and maintain your physical fitness for surfing?
Surfing is the best way to stay in shape for surfing specifically, but at the Hyundai She’s Electric camp which I went on late last year I learnt new training and stretching techniques that I’ll take with me for the rest of my life.
What do you think is the most important quality for a surfer to have? Respect for fellow surfers in the water, respect for myself and respect for the environment.
Tell us about some of your proudest moments or biggest achievements in surfing so far.
After I flick off a really good wave, it’s just the best feeling and a really proud moment for me. As far as achievements, winning the Skullcandy contest at Lennox Head last year was amazing; placing in the top five girls in the Hyundai She’s Electric leaderboard was really exciting; and being invited to join the Rip Curl team as an athlete was awesome.
How do you balance your surfing goals with other aspects of your life, such as school?
I don’t have any certain goals, dreams and aspirations when it comes to surfing, but I know it’s important for me to do well in other parts of my life like school. When I’m at school, I try really hard to get all my work done so as soon as I get home I can gently place the board in the car and start hassling Mum and Dad to get to the beach. In my spare time I do enjoy art and I really like to paint on my surfboards, adding some colour to them.
What are some of your other interests or hobbies outside surfing, and how do they complement your surfing goals?
Some of my interests and hobbies outside surfing are drawing and painting, running and swimming. I’ve been enjoying skating lately, trying out new tricks to then take to the water.
SARAH HALFPENNY
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Drew Burns credits his childhood spent playing in the sand dunes and remnant woodland at the back of his house in Rye with his close connection to nature and plants. “Growing up we weren’t really inside much, other than to watch The Simpsons at 6pm,” he laughs.
It seemed a natural fit for Drew when he started working to do something involving gardens, but he detoured from his passion and did a Bachelor of Business and then went into marketing. “I lasted a year in marketing. I felt disconnected from the outside world. I’ve just always been really interested in plants.”
It was at Melbourne University’s Burnley campus studying urban horticulture that things really fell into place for Drew. “There’s such a rich history at Burnley. Since 1891 it’s been the place for education and research in horticulture. A lot of famous garden designers came out of there, including Edna Walling and Ellis Stones. They were pioneers of Australian native garden design and the use of rock in their gardens.”
At 28, Drew completed his master’s in urban horticulture last year and now works full-time in green infrastructure, building, designing and specifying green roofs and green walls. As a side project, last October Drew started his own company in residential garden design. He then entered one of his designs in a competition for newcomers to the garden design industry, hosted by the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Five entrants were selected to create a small balcony garden – 1.2 square metres x 2.3 square metres – that will be part of the garden show at the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens from March 29-April 2.
Drew is thrilled to have been selected and has begun gathering materials for his garden, titled Junk. “My ethos is about sustainability, and to inspire people to move away from designing gardens using European plants and push in the direction of natives and indigenous plants.”
In keeping with his ethos, Drew is using recycled, reused and repurposed materials such as breeze blocks and red bricks to create his balcony garden. “I’ve included a green wall into my design on the right side of the balcony. It flows down on to a garden bed that’s embedded in the floor, so it looks like the plants are spilling down on to the floor and growing across the balcony.”
Drew will have 10 days to build his balcony garden before the show opens on March 29. You can follow him on his Instagram page @poa_landscapedesign
At Cornish College we believe education goes hand in hand with exploration. Beginning with our 3 Year Old Early Learning program and continuing through to Year 12, our students are encouraged to identify problems and seek out solutions, cultivating their creativity as well as their entrepreneurial spirit.
Book a school tour
cornishcollege.vic.edu.au/school-tours
For more information
T: 9781 9000
E: admissions@cornishcollege.vic.edu.au
Page 8
Ava is surfing her way to the top
14 year old Mornington surfer shines on All Electric leaderboard
Page 23
Handing over the reins
Alison Doherty is stepping down from Mount Eliza Chamber
For the love of bees
Meet Jack Qwipa, fourth generation beekeeper
Page 16-16
Sk8House celebrates at nationals
The locals bring home the medals
Page 26
Marty is the man
Check out what Marty Williams is up to ATM
Page 44
Free to a good home
A new take on the local animal shelter
Pages 50-58
Mount Eliza Village
This village has it all, see our special feature
Pages 59-61
Rosebud, Boneo & Capel Sound
Take a trip to Rosebud to support the locals
Pages 62-81
Local women, leaders in business
A focus on the achievements of enterprising local women to celebrate International Women’s Day
Pages 82-91
It’s all happening in March
For a run-down of the plethora of festivals and events check out our Arts & Events section
CUSTOMER RELATIONS & SALES
Molly 0407 225 261, molly@mpmag.com.au
Anna 0401 598 613 anna@mpmag.com.au
JOURNALISTS & FEATURE WRITERS
Sarah Halfpenny, Nikki Fisher, Lisa Walton, Drew Cooper, Richard Cornish, Maurie Hutchinson, Nerida Langcake, Josie Jones, Stephanie Johnson
PUBLISHING MANAGER Belinda Timmerman publishing@mpmag.com.au
SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Sinead Fay
DISTRIBUTION Archie and his band of helpers DESIGN Lisa Walton, Sinead Fay
PUBLISHER, EDITOR Lisa Walton lisa@mpmag.com.au
Pages 95-101
Health, Beauty, Fashion
It’s a new season, get a new look
WE’VE GOT THE PENINSULA COVERED
Look for our baskets across the Peninsula, greater Frankston and Melbourne -
Mornington Peninsula Magazine
EatDrink Mornington Peninsula Holiday Mornington Peninsula Ph: 5906 5771 or 9708 8222
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Page 114 www.mpmag.com.au
Clean up in March
Time to step up and clean up
Left: We feature some of the area’s most amazing women, including Aleisha Fowler of Saya MediSpa, in our International Women’s Day feature pages 62-81
Top centre: Abode Inspirations, a unique boutique building company, read more on pages 9 & 111; Top right: Check out Oz Design Mornington for all the new season looks in furniture, pages 35 & 110.
Bottom centre: Learn about Mornington Peninsula’s koalas, see page 114 for more; Bottom right: Check out the Latin American flavours at The Milbri, well worth a drive to Rosebud, see our feature pages 59-61
@MornPenMag @MtElizaVillageMag @eatdrinkMornPen
Chisholm Institute is committed to providing consistent, high-quality education and student experiences on the Mornington Peninsula.
While young students aged 16-19 are a demographic that can benefit most from the transformative power of TAFE, it is also a group that is disproportionately affected by low levels of well-being, vulnerability, and educational engagement. That’s why Chisholm is developing a new Youth Pathways Strategy to guide its ongoing support for young students, particularly at its Mornington Peninsula campus.
As part of its renewed focus, the strategy will identify opportunities to:
• Review its current course offering on the Peninsula;
• Build stronger pathway opportunities for youths when they leave secondary school;
• Support young people to be successful in their courses and pursue educational options at higher levels; and,
• Improve employability outcomes and support local business with skilled graduates.
The strategy also plans to explore the potential to host external well-being services on campus.
Chisholm’s Associate Director for Education Ben Jenkinson said the Youth Pathways Strategy was part of a broader effort to help overcome some of the educational barriers faced by local students, including the lack of public transport on the Peninsula.
“We have identified where the challenges exist and want to put in place pathways to ensure that young people on the Mornington Peninsula have access to the training they need for a fulfilling career in their chosen field,” Ben says.
“We want to hear directly from the local community. We will soon begin consulting with stakeholders across the
Mornington Peninsula on the Youth Pathways Strategy to ensure that it is providing the training and support our students and industry partners need.”
Chisholm will begin its consultation process in the coming weeks. Anyone looking to be involved and have their say on the future of TAFE on the Peninsula is encouraged to contact youthpathways@chisholm.edu. au
CHISHOLM INSTITUTE
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Mornington Peninsula beekeeper Jan Dwipa was introduced to the fascinating world of bees 58 years ago when he was six years old. His father was a beekeeper, as were his grandfather and greatgrandfather. “My grandfather sold honey through the Depression,” Jan says. “I’m still using his smoker that he made back in the 1920s.”
Jan’s grandfather was the only beekeeper in the family to sell honey. Jan is in it for the love of bees. “I’ve always just liked hanging out with bees. Dad always had one hive in the backyard. By the time I was a teenager we had about four because I liked bees so much.”
Jan describes bees as “good company”. “It’s easy to enjoy your bees. It’s been shown that the sound of bees, the vibration they put out, is good for you. It has a good effect on the parasympathetic nervous system.”
When it comes to beehives, different types have different features. Jan grew up with the commonly used Langstroth hive. “It depends on what you want out of your hive. If you want table honey, something like the Flow hive is good. I find the old-style Langstroth a bit labour-intensive. Warre hives are good because you get an assortment of flavours in your honey.”
Having a beehive doesn’t automatically mean an endless supply of honey. Last spring wasn’t a good season for making honey, Jan says. “Ideally, you’d get a good harvest before Christmas. But we had warm weather in early spring and the queen started laying, then we had nearly two months of rain, wind and cold and the bees can’t leave the hive in that weather. That meant the hives were full of newborn bees with nowhere to go for food. When they could get out, which wasn’t very often, the flowers were either blown off or washed off by the rain, and all that means no honey.”
After many years working as a beekeeper, Jan now has three apprentices and is moving more into educating people about bees and beekeeping. “Bees aren’t to be taken for granted, ever. Appreciate what they do and how they do it, appreciate everything about their contribution to life. The bees do a lot of work for the honey. Honey is an incredible product; it’s one of the wonders of nature. But don’t expect honey, appreciate honey. In fact, value honey very highly.”
NIKKI FISHERHow will your loved ones be affected if you die without a Will?
In Victoria, a person who dies without a Will is known as having died intestate. As a result, their property and belongings become known as their intestate estate.
Victorian laws direct what happens to your estate if you die intestate, including who should inherit. Unfortunately, this means you won’t have a say in what happens to your property. The unintended consequences of this could harm your loved ones.
For example, consider this scenario:
Jack and Eva were married for 15 years before divorcing. They had two children together, Sarah and Rose.
Some years after the divorce, Eva began a relationship with Steve. Eva and Steve started living together, and within five years Eva and Steve had built a portfolio of assets. They jointly owned three properties worth $2 million in total. The only assets in Eva’s sole name were shares and a bank account worth $450,000.
Eva had always intended to make a Will but had never managed to get around to it. She unexpectedly passed away without making a Will. Intestacy laws required that most of her estate would go to Steve, and her children would receive little due to the size of the estate
This type of situation is surprisingly common. It’s an excellent reminder to ensure you have a valid Will. After all, your Will is one of the most important documents you will ever prepare. Don’t let legislation direct how your assets are distributed.
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As we roll into a new inline speed skating season for 2023, the Sk8house speed team has some huge successes to look back on after competing in the National Inline Speed Skating Championships from January 16-21. A long, arduous but hugely successful week saw the country’s top ranked skaters compete in road, flat track, bank track and marathon.
Sk8house sent 10 of its best speed skaters to compete as part of the Victorian team. All skaters competed fiercely to gain podium positions during the competition with some fantastic results across all the states. The Victorian team triumphed overall, becoming the state winner for the championships by snatching 72 of the medals up for grabs. Overall, Sk8house collected 46 medals during the championships across all disciplines.
Highlights included Harry Geary taking out the 5km open men’s race on flat track and claiming a silver medal in the 10km open men’s road race. Overall, Harry walked away with three gold medals, five silver and two bronze in the junior men’s division. Harry’s father Kevin was Sk8house Speed Club’s most successful medal winner in the masters men 50+ age category, taking home six gold, four silver and a bronze, followed closely by Rob Taylor with two gold, three silver and six bronze. Rob came second in the open masters 42km marathon in the gruelling WA heat.
In the very competitive masters 30 & 40-plus age category, Bradley Payne walked away with a silver and a bronze to his name. Congratulations also go to Danika Hopmans, who won silver in the junior/senior road relay team, and to Ashlee Payne for her efforts throughout the week. Both girls competed for the first time in the very tough junior women’s division and fought valiantly throughout the week with some very near podium positions.
Jaxson Brown also had a fantastic championships with two silver medals, a bronze and numerous fourth and fifth places. Jaxson was Sk8house’s only other marathon medallist, winning bronze in the 21km junior boys’ category.
In his first time at a national championship, Thomas Forbes walked away with a whopping eight medals under his belt – five silver and three bronze. Thomas
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came to the championships with no expectations of medalling, so he was delighted to achieve results far beyond what he had imagined. Although a couple of Sk8house skaters did not medal at the nationals, Wouter Oosthuizen secured a couple of fifth places before he was injured and Jack Vacur placed midpack in the majority of his races.
Sk8house is justifiably proud of every skater who put their heart and soul into the nationals and also extends its
congratulations to all its skaters who were selected in the Australian team for the Oceania championships in Brisbane next month. It also congratulated Harry Geary, who has been selected for the World Speed Championships being held in Italy later in the year.
The Sk8house Speed Club thanks Kevin Geary and Bradley Payne for their leadership in coaching the Victorian team through its many triumphs and tribulations throughout the week.
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If you’ve been fortunate enough to meet Sorrento’s Maureen Hafey, you’ll know she effortlessly exudes positivity and vitality. Maureen’s generosity and contribution to community, including her roles with Richmond Football Club and various charities, were recognised this year with an Order of Australia Medal.
“It’s a great honour to be recognised but there are so many good workers out there,” Maureen says. “I knew two months before anyone else I was to receive the award. You’re not allowed to tell a soul, which was very difficult keeping it from my three daughters.”
Maureen’s football connections, made over the years of her marriage to the late and legendary football great Tommy Hafey, have come in handy in her charity work, particularly in her work with Variety, The Children’s Charity. “The opportunity to meet so many people through football has been really fantastic.”
A highlight on the Variety fundraising calendar each year is the Variety AFL Grand Final lunch Maureen is integral to organising. “If you live in Melbourne, everyone wants to
celebrate Grand Final week. We have 1000 people come to the Variety lunch now at Crown Casino.” At the lunch, Maureen presents the coveted Tom Hafey Variety Heart of Football Award, which acknowledges a current AFL player for their selfless actions and dedication to children.
When asked what her secret is to her positivity and
vitality, Maureen says: “Whatever you do in life, you have to love it. Everybody can find something they love. That’s the thing I’ve enjoyed, and I’ve been healthy enough to do it.”
Maureen walks on the beach daily and has a close connection with her family, including her six grandchildren. “All six grandchildren are interested in sport and fitness but not playing football. Isn’t that amazing? They’ve all grown up fantastic and are doing interesting things.”
Of her life in football, Maureen says: “It’s easy and it’s hard. To win a premiership, everyone is ecstatic; it’s a marvellous place to be. When you lose, though, people say ‘Football’s not your life’. Well, it’s some people’s lives. It’s devastating to lose; the players train so hard.”
Tommy began his coaching career in Shepparton, where he turned the team around and coached them to three premierships. He went on to coach Richmond, Collingwood, Geelong, and the Sydney Swans, winning four premierships with the Tigers. “Tommy and I shifted lots of places with footy and met lots of people,” Maureen says. “It’s a great life.”
NIKKI FISHER
After a decade as the marketing and events co-ordinator for Mount Eliza Chamber of Commerce, Alison Doherty is handing the reins over to Jade Gillan and looking forward to retirement.
“I have a long history working in chambers of commerce,” Alison says. “I was with Rosebud Chamber of Commerce for 16 years before coming to Mount Eliza. I’ve loved working with business owners, being part of the community, and running fantastic events and promotions, but it’s time for the chamber to have someone new with new ideas in line with younger business owners.”
A highlight of Alison’s time has been the friends she has made within the business community and the support she’s had from the chamber committee. “It’s been a real team effort. I’ve been blessed over the years working with a committee of volunteers who are both running businesses in Mount Eliza and are also dedicated to doing the best for the village as a whole.”
The other highlight was being part of the running of Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market. “I wasn’t involved in setting the market up; it is a chamber of commerce initiative supported by Mount Eliza Lions and Rotary clubs, but I’ve loved being involved and making sure it stays strong. It is such a great community day each month.”
While Alison will be brushing up on her golf game, Jade is looking forward to amping up the village spirit and facilitating connections between businesses, locals and visitors alike. Jade and her husband have been locals for seven years. “I was attracted to the diversity of the role and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to use the various skills I’ve gained in 16 years working in communications,” Jade says. “It is such a gift to be able to work with a community I love so much.”
NIKKI FISHERIf you own a holiday apartment, especially in the northern half of the Peninsula stretching all the way to the heart of Melbourne itself, there’s a chance your property may be underperforming under its current management. Maybe you’re taking care of it yourself on top of your day-to-day life or letting an agent take care of it for you; do you really feel its getting the best attention it deserves and making the most from bookings that it can?
Holiday Rentals Australia is seeing a huge boom in booking interest from prospective guests for their properties which includes houses and apartments. Apartments however are seeing the highest number of enquiries and all the company’s recently launched properties, managed on behalf of their owners, are flourishing. Their latest apartment launch, using the company’s signature thorough approach to photos and listing content, saw 5 quality bookings received in the first 48 HOURS of the listing going live. Their latest house launch received a long, high value booking within just 36 HOURS.
If you think your property could be doing better, call Stephen on 0435 768 514. It might be time you shook things up with your management to make sure you don’t miss out on the unprecedented boom of domestic travel we’re expecting this summer.
Observing the stars in March, your eyes will undoubtedly be drawn to the constellations sitting in the southeast, centred around the Southern Cross (Crux) and Centaurus. Just above Crux, a little further in Carina, is a glowing region known as the Eta Carina Nebula (NGC 3372). It is visible to the naked eye against the Milky Way, with a dark lane of dust running through it, and it is beautiful when observed through a small telescope.
This month you can see plenty of objects with a good pair of binoculars, including the open cluster known as the Southern Pleiades (IC 2602). Its brightest member, the star Theta Carinae, can be seen with the naked eye. If you turn binoculars on the cluster, you can see about 24 other sparkling stars.
This month’s conjunctions, which is when two astronomical objects appear close to each other in the sky, include Venus and Jupiter on March 2, the moon and Venus on March 24, and the moon and Mars on March 29. Then on Tuesday, March 21, Earth is at equinox, which is when Earth’s two hemispheres are receiving the sun’s rays equally.
This Saturday, March 4, join the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society for Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind: A Musical Stargazing Trivia Soiree. There is a door prize of a
pair of Saxon 7x50 wide-angle binoculars, as well as raffles, a trivia competition including music, astronomy and general knowledge questions, sausages and burgers to buy on the night, and of course stargazing throughout the evening. There is also live music from our event partners at the Southern Peninsula Concert Band. Dress in a space-themed outfit for a chance to win spot prizes. You can find more information at the MPAS website.
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
Blown by fast wind from a hot, massive star, this cosmic bubble called the Dolphin Nebula is much larger than the dolphin it appears to be. It lies some 5200 light-years away towards the constellation of Canis Major and covers slightly more of the sky than a full moon. That corresponds to a diameter of 60 light-years at its estimated distance.
DROMANA
INDUSTRIAL ESTATE MAKERS & TRADES OPEN YEAR ROUNDPhoto: MPAS member Nik Axaris
If you’re a Peninsula resident and love live music, singer-songwriter Marty Williams needs no introduction. In addition to creating his own music with his band Cousin Leonard, Marty has long been an avid promoter of live music in our coastal and hinterland communities, particularly through Peninsula Songriders Club.
“I started Peninsula Songriders Club off the back of muso nights at the Heritage Tavern in Balnarring back in 2003 where I was looking to champion original songwriters on the Peninsula,” Marty says. “My whole musical connection to the Peninsula began there.”
These days Peninsula Songriders has grown into a monthly gig at Western Port Yacht Club featuring highcalibre singers, songwriters and musicians from around the world, as well as some of the best artists from the
Peninsula, Melbourne and around Australia.
This month, Badloves frontman Michael Spiby takes to the stage, while last month Things of Stone and Wood played to a sold-out house. If you need more big names to impress, sold-out January shows featured Lior and Domini, and pianist Ben Waters, who’s played with the likes of The Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry and Jeff Beck.
Last month, Marty and his brother Tom, who make up Cousin Leonard, a contemporary alt-folk/soul-pop duo, played in New Zealand doing a benefit show with Ben Waters. “We’re working on the next Cousin Leonard album, which has been a long time in the realising. We’re hoping to have it finished by the end of the year and we’ll be ready for more gigs.”
The other hat Marty so capably wears is in his role as music, arts and culture director at Peninsula Hot Springs. “The space between arts, culture, the environment, wellness, and hot springs is where I’m most involved. It’s a really rich combination and we’re doing things with hot springs all over the world now, which is really exciting.” World Bathing Day on June 22 is a notable
global gathering Marty is working on. It is a day that sees musicians perform at hot springs locations around the world and be filmed and shared.
A highlight for Marty this month will be seeing the Awaken festival come to life at Peninsula Hot Springs on March 26. “It’s taken a few years to be able to actually launch this inaugural thermal springs wellness gathering, a world first, and we invite all friends and family to join in this beautiful positive and inspirational experience.” There’ll be music from Mama Kin Spender with the Macapella Choir, Garrett Kato, Kyle Lionheart, and Edo Kahn, and wellness inspiration and yoga with worldrenowned Dr Bruce Lipton, Shiva Rea, and Peninsula yoga teacher Maggie Carr, to name a few. Visit the wellness dome village, or attend a workshop, or sound healing.
The next Peninsula Songriders Club gig at Western Port Yacht Club is Michael Spiby on Friday, March 31. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/ peninsulasongriders, and for more information or tickets to Awaken, go to www.awaken.net.au
Whether you’re looking for a great day out or a five-day trip away, we’ve got something that will suit everyone
Mouse Trap Agatha Christie Mystery
Wednesday 8th - $104
Living Legends Wednesday 15th March $85.00
Alowyn Gardens Wednesday 29th March $75.00
Montsalvat Thursday 20th April $78.00
High Tea at Overnewton Castle
Wednesday 17th May $95.00
Inverloch & Wonthaggi
Wednesday 7th June $85.00
Extended Trips Away:
Theatre Shows
Day Trips
Extended Trips
Xmas in July & Much More
• 3 Day Lakes Entrance
$625.00 late May date TBC
• Adelaide
5-9th September - $1150.00
• Greek Island Cruise
October 2023
Independently Operated - Contact Maree on P. 9750 0066 | maree@mareestours.com
A long-time foster carer and a young man dedicated to helping the homeless have been honoured in Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 2023 Australia Day Local Awards.
Jack Van Der Zwart was named Citizen of the Year for his compassionate and selfless work, including caring for foster children, cooking for the homeless in Rosebud, and providing meals to those in need. For nearly four decades, Jack and his wife Arina opened their hearts and home to 22 foster children, offering them a safe and loving environment during a crucial time in their lives. Jack's ability to connect with young people and provide them with the support they need to succeed is truly remarkable. He goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being and has maintained close relationships with many of the foster children he and his wife took in.
For five years, Jack cooked as a volunteer with a friend at a church, providing 400-500 meals a week to the homeless and those struggling. Despite having little materially, Jack values the richness of a caring and loving family above all else. He is an extraordinary man who embodies the meaning of compassion and generosity. Jack's love and commitment to helping those in need is inspirational. He is a shining example of what it means to be a true Citizen of the Year. Jack's life is a testament to the
power of kindness, generosity, and selflessness.
Josh Berry was named Young Citizen of the Year for his Two Pairs Each initiative aimed at aiding the homeless population. His goal is to provide two pairs for each of the 23,000 homeless individuals in Victoria.
Josh started the project when he was just nine and a half years old – he’s now 17 – and over the past seven and a half years he has collected and distributed more than 39,000 pairs of new socks with the support of donors and business partners. Through the program, Josh raises awareness about the facts and challenges of homelessness and gives a human touch to this increasing social problem.
In addition to his work for the homeless community, Josh is active in various other community activities such as Junior Fire Brigade, Sailability (supporting people with disabilities to sail), and Air Force Cadets. His leadership serves as an example of the positive impact one individual can have with a simple idea.
According to the homeless community, clean and warm socks are one of the most essential items. While people often donate blankets and jackets, they rarely donate socks.
To find out more about Two Pairs Each and how you can help Josh attain his goal, visit www.2pairseach.com.au
We at Dove and Lyre appreciate the expense and offer the layby facility, helping to spread your purchase. We are flexible with the repayment terms due to the large differences in our product prices. Dove and Lyre in Main St, Mornington, is a shop we believe is sure to impress – a fasci-nating eclectic mix of unique and wonderful objects that have been collected over many years. To name but a few of the most amazing items for sale is a 120 million-year-old baby dinosaur, Psittacosaurus sinensis, a small herbivore from China; a very unusual three-chambered amethyst cave from Brazil; and antiquities more than 5000 years old.
We have a vast range of gemstones, from the common rose quartz to the obscure petroleum quartz from Pakistan, ranging in price from $4 to more than $10,000.
Our extensive range of fossils includes trilobites from Morocco and the US, ammonites from many places in the world, a woolly mammoth lower jaw with teeth, and megalodon shark teeth
with a great white tooth to show size comparison.
We have a range of meteorites including a piece from Namibia called Gibeon, which on impact created Libyan glass (yellow tektite) 600 million years ago. We also have moldavite, the result of a meteorite impact in Germany about 14 million years ago.
We have for sale antiquities from around the world from the everpopular Rome and Viking eras, and others dating back several thousand years.
Jewellery from antique to Art Deco and the latest handmade sterling silver jewellery, earrings and fashion jewellery.
Dove and Lyre have a superb collection of butterflies, moths, bats, spiders and other beasties framed and in glass domes.
Make sure you put Dove and Lyre on your ‘MUST SEE’ list when you are out and about in Mornington.
DoveandLyreis definitelytheplace tocomeforhistory buffs who would like apieceofourpast, literally.
Hello, beautiful autumn. It’s the time of year when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature has been saving up all year for the grand finale. There is no better time than autumn to begin forgetting the things that trouble us, allowing them to fall away while relaxing in a luxurious IMG recliner.
IMG seamlessly integrates elegance, comfort and function to create the perfect recliner and sofa, and all are produced with carefully selected materials that ensure optimum performance, support and durability. Every element of the IMG design has been researched and engineered with a focus on both functionality and comfort, backed by a 10-year warranty so you can rest assured that you have invested in state-of-the-art Scandinavian-inspired furniture that lasts.
Recliner construction incorporates fully steel-sprung frames and cold-cured moulded foam to deliver unsurpassed comfort and support. This is coupled with
an extensive choice of quality top grain leathers and fabrics.
These truly unique chairs also come in a range of sizes and base types to enable you to personalise your comfort zone, as well as motorisation for the ultimate relaxation experience.
With an international market, IMG has been producing these stunning pieces globally for many years, thus cementing its solid reputation for flawless recliners worldwide. Find out for yourself by visiting Big Chair Living in Mornington or Sorrento and discover body-correct support and true Norwegian comfort created by IMG.
BIG CHAIR LIVING
A: 140 Main St, Mornington
T: 5976 1960
A: 119 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento
T: 5984 3388
W: www.imgcomfort.com.au
FB: IMGcomfort
INSTA: imgcomfort
Hidden away at the top end of Main Street in Mornington is the only bespoke bar on the Mornington Peninsular. We specialise in local beers and wines, plus a few unusual ones to keep it interesting. Add in some of your best street food in town and you have Mr Paul’s beer & wine bar.
The best local bar with a difference. We are a relaxed and funky style bar that once you have discovered us, you will never forget us!
www.mrpaulsbeerandwine.com.au
a global charity
provides free hair cutting training for people living in critical poverty and ladies rescued from the sex trade and prostitution gangs. Hair Aid teams work directly with people that want to change their lives by learning a skill that can get them out of poverty or critically dangerous situations.
Hair Aid facilitates a five-day hair cutting course that teaches the skill to cut five basic haircuts. This skill can then be used to start a micro business and create an income to support themselves and their family. All trainees receive a free tool kit after they complete the training, enabling them to immediately begin earning money.
Joki, owner of Salon Envy Mornington has previously travelled to Cambodia in 2019 with Hair Aid and is looking forward to the Indonesian Hair Aid Project in May 2023, this time working in and around Central Bali, including the Bali Prison.
This is an amazing organisation and gives men and women the opportunity to earn a living opposed to scavenging in the dump for food, clothes, and water Hair Aid carries out this vital work in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and Cambodia and we are committed to helping Hair Aid continue this vital work.
We have set ourselves a goal of raising $2000 and would love any contribution (big or small) to help towards this cause.
Regular readers will remember we started the year highlighting new energy vehicles (NEV), the Haval Jolion Hybrid and H6 Hybrid SUVs. Well, what a pair of surprises we’ve had since submitting our article in time for January’s issue.
At the end of the year, we learned of the upcoming arrival of Tank 300 HEV, Australia’s first 'conventional' hybrid four-wheel-drive in its category. With a traditional boxlike, beefy off-road shape, Tank 300 HEV showcases a
luxurious interior design and advanced technology.
Tank 300 HEV is available to order now, and showroom arrival is imminent. It’s poised to become a strong option for those looking to explore Australian roads, tracks and beyond.
Now, let’s go full electric. We’ve just had the announcement of our first fully electric car, the GWM Ora. Featuring classic styling that’s sure to turn heads, it’ll be one of Australia’s most affordable electric cars. And definitely the most fun!
Just like its other GWM stablemates, the Ora comes equipped with a wide range of features for maximum
comfort and convenience. In addition, almost every conceivable safety feature has been made standard across the Ora range. Like Tank 300 and almost all our vehicles, GWM Ora has already been awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
We are seriously excited at the imminent arrival of Tank 300 and Ora here at Peninsula GWM. Visit our website, give us a call, or pop into the showroom to learn more.
PENINSULA GWM
A: 14 Wells Rd, Seaford
T: 9786 1022
W: www.peninsulagwmhaval.com.au
Olympic champions Herb Elliott and Sebastian Coe have unveiled a plaque in Portsea honouring the coaching career of Percy Cerutty. The World Athletics Heritage Plaque was awarded to Percy in the posthumous Legend category in 2021 to mark “an outstanding contribution to the worldwide history and development of the sport of track and field athletics and of out-of-stadia athletics disciplines such as cross country, mountain, road, trail and ultrarunning, and race walking”.
The plaque is displayed above the entrance of the pavilion at the Percy Cerutty Oval in Portsea. Percy and his wife Nancy made Portsea their permanent home in the 1950s and set up his famous training camp, which is now owned by his grandson, Ken Richards. Herb was a student of Percy’s, becoming an Olympic 1500m champion in 1960 and setting multiple world records over 1500m and the mile. Two-time Olympic 1500m champion Sebastian said it was Herb who inspired him to become a runner and it was Percy’s guidance that “honed Herb’s competitive mettle. Percy was an unorthodox, innovative coach whose pioneering approach developed Herb into the outstanding recordbreaking, unbeaten miler who first took the world by storm in the late 1950s”.
“I would not be who I am or where I am without the lucky accident of meeting Percy when I was still at school,” Herb said. “He was highly inspiring. To hear Percy talk, you wanted to go out and shake the trees and shake the world. Percy believed ‘nothing worthwhile was ever accomplished without pain, without full effort, without a price’. I adopted his philosophy.”
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Steve Holland said it was a pleasure to welcome the two athletics superstars to Portsea to celebrate the life of a Peninsula legend. “Percy Cerutty saw how our unique and beautiful natural environment could be used to benefit the athletes in his care. He will forever be remembered by the Portsea
community, not least because the town’s oval is named after him.”
Percy, who was born on January 10, 1895, in Prahran and died in Portsea on August 14, 1975, was a pioneering and inspirational track and field athletics coach and the author of six coaching books. According to World Athletics Heritage, he used the Portsea sand dunes for “the most rigorous of training regimes” and developed his Stotan philosophy – a mix of Stoic and Spartan disciplines – based on natural foods, weightlifting, and running in natural surroundings.
“Biomechanics were fundamentally important,” the organisation said. “Cerutty studied the movement of animals with the goal to achieve the most uninhibited, natural form of running. The high speed of most of the
training runs he advocated, and the use of short, steep sand dunes of Portsea, were central to his conditioning philosophy.
“In the distance running world, Cerutty was a pioneer in the use of weight training. His emphasis was on low repetitions using maximum weights to build strength but without the risk of bulking up. Gymnastics exercises such as chin-ups, parallel bars and vaulting were also employed for strength, co-ordination and breaking the monotony of running.
“Cerutty’s system was all about inspiration and flexibility of schedule. ‘Nothing must be dictated, fixed, or regimented. When an athlete goes out to train, his body should dictate his needs and he runs according to its capacities and demands’.”
Organisers of this month’s Great Aussie Hike are excited to announce the addition of a 5km community walk/run so that everyone can join the fun. It’s the perfect opportunity for families, friends, neighbours and work colleagues to spend the afternoon together, get active in nature and support each other’s mental and physical well-being.
Come along and enjoy the scenic 5km trail exploring Devilbend Natural Features Reserve, taking in the woodlands and tranquil waters. Don’t forget to keep watch for the native wildlife and the many species of birds that call this place home. Then hang around and enjoy the festivities and cheer home all the teams who have walked 100km.
The Great Aussie Hike was developed in 2020 by a group of volunteers who wanted to do something to help the mental well-being of the community during both lockdowns and periods of heavy restrictions. It focuses on mates taking on a walking challenge together to encourage human connection, goal setting and physical activity in nature. From March 24-25, teams will wind around the hidden treasures of the Mornington Peninsula covering either 30km, 43km, 57km or 100km distances. Not only are these walkers supporting each other, but many are also supporting Lifeline Australia. Donations via the challenge will mean that Lifeline can answer more calls from someone in crisis and ensure Lifeline’s services will be there tonight, tomorrow night and every night. It really is a wonderful way to support your own mental health, look after your mates and care about those struggling within our community.
Tickets will be strictly limited and are only available online, with no registrations available on the day. All registered participants will receive a race bib and finisher medal. Early bird prices are $12 for adults, $8 for children, and $50 for groups of six. For further details and to buy tickets, go to www.greataussiehike.com.au
The Great Aussie Hike is supported by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and Mornington Peninsula Magazine.
If you or someone you know needs crisis support, please phone Lifeline on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114 or visit lifeline.org.au/gethelp for Lifeline Chat Service 24/7.
If you’re thinking retirement living, then Village Glen, in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, is a great place to start. Village Glen, one of Australia's largest, most well-appointed retirement communities, has just completed a major renovation, offering residents the lifestyle and facilities they'd expect to find in a 5-star resort.
At the Village’s Hub, you’ll find a new 125-seat Palms restaurant, a 48-seat gold class-style cinema, Jake’s Bar for that catch-up with friends, CJs lounge with café offering light snacks and coffee, and a new repurposed library. The Hub has always been where residents meet to chat, shop at the general store or visit the hairdresser; now, with added amenities, it really will become a destination to socialise and relax in a beautiful environment.
The Village comprises 50ha (120 acres) of botanically landscaped gardens and facilities, with 11 one-bedroom villas, 217 two-bedroom villas, 346 two-bedroom-plus-study villas, 42 one-bedroom Terrace apartments and 16 two-bedroom Lakeside apartments – and there’s not one step in the entire village. Highlights include a nine-hole par-3 golf course, a health and wellness centre, an eight-rink bowling green, a croquet lawn, a craft activity building, a fully appointed workshop, and complimentary caravan and boat storage.
There has never been a better time to explore what’s on offer; discover how you can join this wonderful community and secure a safe, fun retirement future by coming to our open day on April 22.
Visit www.villageglen.com.au or call 5986 4455 for a brochure or appointment.
VILLAGE GLEN
A: 335 Eastbourne Rd, Capel Sound
T: 5986 4455
W: www.villageglen.com.au
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Great things are happening in our neighbourhood as Mornington Peninsula Shire works to update its Civic Reserve masterplan.
Civic Reserve, a 25ha park on the corner of MorningtonTyabb and Dunns roads in Mornington, is well used and much loved by nearby residents as well as the wider Peninsula community. It is home to MPRG, Mornington Rose Garden, Oakhill Gallery, and Civic Reserve Recreation Centre, with its many user groups and sports clubs. There’s also a fenced leash-free dog park, playground, skate park, walking paths, and two lakes with wild waterbirds.
The last masterplan for the park was adopted in 2008 and is outdated. The shire’s working on a new one and is seeking responses from the community about how you use the site, how you rate its facilities, and what ideas you might have for improvements. The shire will use all the community feedback it receives to develop a draft Civic Reserve masterplan, which will be placed on public exhibition later this year for you to review to ensure it is in line with your expectations.
Community consultation is open until March 15. You can have your say at mornpen.vic.gov.au/ civicreservemasterplan; hard copy forms are also available at the shire’s customer service centres.
“We know that for students to thrive in their learning, their physical and emotional well-being must be nurtured and developed to ensure they flourish and become the best version of themselves,” says deputy principal of student well-being Diane Furusho.
During its 130-year history, Haileybury has earned an enviable reputation for achieving some of the state’s best VCE results and ATAR scores. Even last year, students continued to achieve outstanding results despite almost two years of challenges caused by the pandemic and the switch to remote learning.
The depth of teaching expertise across each Haileybury campus is a key part of the school’s success story. But the focus on education excellence is wrapped in a safe and supportive learning environment and a comprehensive well-being program.
Nurses, psychologists, a student welfare officer, heads of school and heads of houses closely monitor and support the progress of each student. In more senior years, careers counsellors guide students as they make important study and career choices that best fit their goals and interests.
Combine the focus on student well-being and academic achievement with Haileybury’s drive to bring ‘brilliant teaching’ to life and it’s easy to see why so many young people thrive at the school.
“You can’t explain brilliant teaching in three dot points,” says Haileybury CEO and principal Derek Scott. “I think brilliant teachers have a deep capacity for building relationships with students and for self-reflection. You can’t go into a classroom and teach the same thing for 20 or 30 years. Brilliant teachers should constantly reflect, refine and improve.”
Discover more about Haileybury at our school tours.
HAILEYBURY
A: 855 Springvale Rd, Keysborough
T: 9904 6110
W: www.haileybury.com.au
FB: haileyburyschool
INSTA: haileyburyschool
At Haileybury, educational excellence and brilliant teaching go hand in hand with a strong focus on student health and well-being.
For most, Haileybury remains part of their life long after they graduate, like our Head of Campus and Class of 1987 alumnus, Mark. Mark leads an impressive cohort of students, empowering them to be the best versions of themselves, be it in class, or on the court … occasionally showing them he’s still got it. The Haileybury family is proud to have Mark inspire our next set of leaders!
If you think council-run animal shelters are places where dogs and cats are taken off the street and locked up never to see the outside world again, Leesa McCann will tell you that’s not the case.
“Our main purpose is to reunite animals back to their owners,” says Leesa, who’s operations supervisor at Community Animal Shelter & Pound Mornington. “The shelter is a refuge for stray or lost animals; it’s a place of rehabilitation with food and love. Animals can recharge
here so they are thriving and ready to be reunited or rehomed if necessary.”
And we’re not just talking cats and dogs. “We have what we call ‘pocket pets’, such as ferrets, rabbits and guinea pigs,” Leesa says. “Livestock – we have three paddocks – we get lots of llamas, alpacas, goats, sheep, cows, pigs and horses. And then we have cats and dogs.”
Reunification is the aim for lost animals, but the shelter also receives surrendered animals. “We’re at full capacity with surrendered animals. For instance, we have 51 cats here now. We recently had two cats dumped at the front door and a few months before that ferrets were
dumped. I think financial pressure on people is having an impact.”
Animal adoption is a big part of what happens here. There’s no cost to adopt an animal. For shire residents, adopted pets receive free pet registration for one year and all initial vet care, including desexing, vaccination, microchipping and a general health check. “We work closely with Pet Rescue, a pet adoption organisation. We’ve strengthened a lot of great relationships over the last two years because everyone has had to rely on each other. It’s been one good aspect to COVID.”
Animals that are available for adoption at the shelter are fortunate because the number of days they can be there isn’t limited. “Animals stay here for as long as it takes to be adopted. It’s as simple as that. I always say there’s someone for every animal.”
There is, however, a sad side to the job when an animal needs to be euthanased, such as a diseased animal or wild cat. The decision to do so isn’t made lightly. “We put a lot of resources into rehabilitating wild cats and giving them a chance at a new life.”
The other time euthanasia is needed is when a dog has bitten somebody and is surrendered to the shelter. “By law we can’t adopt that animal out. It’s a safety concern; we can’t put that dog out in the community. It is sad. We’re the ones that have to take the animal to the vet.”
Leesa wants the community to see the wonderful work the staff do here and the effort they put into it. “They go beyond their job description and do things like bring in snuffle mats they’ve created at home.” What’s a snuffle mat? A fabric mat with treats hidden within that the animal has to forage for. It is, she says, an enriching activity for the animals.
If you think you’d like to adopt an animal, jump online at https://bit.ly/3YVx3Hn and see the cats, dogs and pocket pets waiting to win your heart.
NIKKI FISHER
A Mornington Peninsula mural designed to raise awareness of the climate crisis has won third place at the recent 2022 Australian Street Art Awards.
Julian Clavijo’s Painting Our Future, which adorns the Ritchies IGA supermarket in Salmon St, Hastings, picked up bronze for Best External Mural. The 40m artwork was commissioned by Mornington Peninsula Shire to raise awareness of and inspire community action on climate change.
The Australian Street Art Awards were established in 2018 to recognise destinations using public art to engage their communities while also attracting visitors and boosting their economies.
To many naval historians, HMS Hood was the last battlecruiser while others claim she was a fast battleship. The battlecruiser was a fighting ship with less heavy armour than a similar sized battleship, providing a higher top speed. The Battle of Jutland, with the loss of three of these warships, had shown that they could not face the big guns of an enemy fleet. The result was that no further battlecruisers were built for the RN, but HMS Hood, begun in 1918, was completed with modifications. Commissioned in May 1920, she was the longest and largest warship in the world when she visited Port Melbourne in March 1924. She remained the longest ship of the Royal Navy until 2017 when the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth was commissioned.
In November 1923, HMS Hood left the UK with the battlecruiser HMS Repulse, escorted by five light cruisers for a round-the-world cruise visiting the countries of the British Empire. Referred to as ‘The Mighty Hood’, she was regarded as the most powerful warship ever seen but exploded and sank less than 10 minutes into an action against the German battleship Bismarck at the Battle of the Denmark Strait in 1941. Her companion on the cruise, the battlecruiser HMS Repulse, launched in 1916, also was unable to withstand the changes to military technology. In December 1941 she was sunk along with the battleship Prince of Wales by bombs and torpedoes dropped from Japanese aircraft. War at sea had changed from one fleet firing its guns at
Pictured at Port Melbourne on March 17, 1924, HMS Hood was 240m long and had a speed of more than 30 knots (55km/h). Her eight fifteen-inch guns (381mm) fired projectiles weighing 871kg over distances of more than 32km. Photo: Green, Allan C., 1878-1954; State Library of Victoria
another, to actions by the aircraft of opposing fleets and submarine warfare.
In March 1924 the Argus newspaper described HMS Hood as “a masterpiece of the art of the naval architect, naval engineer, and shipbuilder”, but by 1941 she was obsolete. Plans had been made to upgrade the Hood in 1941 but the outbreak of WWII meant that these were cancelled. Newspaper articles from 1924 stated that she was “a great, living symbol of our very safety and protection”.
An expedition led by David Mearns found the wreck of the Hood at a depth of 3000m in 2001. Her remains
were
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.
Looking for a new retail experience? Stray from the well-worn track down the Mornington Peninsula’s coast and you’ll find yourself in the village of Mount Eliza. Here you’ll discover a genuine boutique environment away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. Be greeted warmly by the slow-paced, friendly atmosphere of a vibrant local community, and take time to shop, eat, drink and chill.
North of Mornington just off Nepean Highway, this shady, tree-lined village is home to an interesting mix of independent shops with not a chain store in sight. Female and male fashions, homewares, specialist food and wine merchants, and the best quality fresh produce abound, and there’s also no shortage of beauty and personal pampering services.
Remember the days of quality customer service rather than just ‘hard sell’? Well, it still exists here in abundance. The friendly and knowledgeable retail staff tend to be the business owners themselves and therefore they’re the ones with stories to share and a passion for the services they provide.
With cafes full of deliciousness, juice bars, an irresistible ice-creamery, extended outdoor dining areas and the outdoor beer garden of the local hotel, there’s plenty of refreshment choices to sustain you before, during and after your shopping spree. New businesses continue to open, showing their confidence in the business community, and the vibe is good.
Come join the special ambience of a shopping trip, including dinner, in Mount Eliza Village, where you’ll find boutique shopping at its best.
A cancer diagnosis is devastating enough, but imagine being told the cancer you have is incurable. For Mount Eliza resident Geoff Nyssen, his diagnosis in 2014 at age 40 left his friends and young family reeling. In response, Geoff launched the MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival in 2017 to raise money for myeloma research and treatment, and since then more than $230,000 has been raised. For Geoff, the festival’s greater purpose is empowering the Mornington Peninsula community to be happier, healthier and more resilient.
“This event is a perfect example of what a community can achieve,” he says. “It shows that when someone suffers a significant personal setback, family, friends and community will rally in support of a shared goal to do good.”
More than 1000 people are expected at this year’s festival, which is on Sunday,
March 19, at Mount Eliza Regional Park. It includes 4km, 8km and 12km runs, the 4km All Paws Walk, a kids’ sprint for the younger ones, and a virtual event option. There will be community and local business exhibitors, quality food and beverage vendors, family-friendly activities and challenges, prizes and giveaways, and a silent auction.
Register at https://mymounteliza.org.au/
RT Edgar Peninsula is continuing its awardwinning streak after being named a finalist in the 2023 Real Estate Institute of Australia National Awards for Excellence.
Led by director Vicki Sayers, the Mount Eliza-based agency has been nominated in the Residential Sales Team of the Year and Community Service Award categories, which recognise Australia’s top performing agents and their contribution to fostering stronger communities.
“We are very proud to be finalists in these awards,” Vicki says. “The recognition feels like winning, whether we come home with the gong or not. Our team strive to be the best we can in servicing our clients and the community and we know what we do makes a difference.”
The accolades follow RT Edgar Peninsula’s recent success at last year’s Real Estate Institute of Victoria Awards, where Vicki claimed the prestigious title of
Residential Salesperson of the Year (Executive). The agency also won the Residential Sales Team of the Year Award, along with the Residential Marketing (Budget Under $10,000) and Community Service awards.
The winners of the 2023 REIA National Awards for Excellence will be announced at a ceremony at the Crown Ballroom in Perth on March 9.
If you are looking for a professional sales team with a difference, RT Edgar Peninsula has extensive experience working in changing markets, delivers proven marketing strategies and has access to a wide network of buyers. For further information or to book an updated sales appraisal, please phone 9776 3369.
RT EDGAR PENINSULA
A: 82 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza
T: 9776 3369
W: www.rtedgar.com/offices/mount-eliza/24/
FB: rtedgarrealestate
INSTA: rtedgar_realestate
There are not many real estate agencies on the Mornington Peninsula that can lay claim to having been in business for more than 45 years. Terry Sparks and his late wife Jan launched TJ Sparks in 1977 in Portsea, then moved to Sorrento in 1982. Their Mount Eliza office opened in 1978 and continues to grow. Terry is one of the only single directors in the region who still heads his independent boutique real estate business, levering his experience as a successful business owner. Known for his welcoming and affable nature, his compassionate client service, 24/7 availability and his personal touches, Terry is a skilled negotiator with his clients’ best interests at heart. He’s also a firm believer in giving back to his community and is passionate about representing his local clubs, schools, football clubs and services.
With fixed-rate mortgages coming to an end and many people having significantly reduced borrowing power, there are likely to be some great properties coming up for the savvy investor. With staff shortages needing to be filled and immigration opening up, investment properties are worth considering too.
If you would like to get an opinion on your home in the current marketplace, Terry would be pleased to speak to you. TJ Sparks provides the utmost in service and trust. So whether you’re searching for your dream home, want to sell, or are looking for a short or long-term rental, TJ Sparks is your No.1 source for real estate to suit your lifestyle.
TJ SPARKS
A: 68 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza T: 0425 740 851
W: www.tjsparks.com.au
Nestled in the leafy suburb of Mount Eliza, Mt Eliza House Sanctuary of Early Learning was established in 1996 and has been providing a consistent quality of care ever since.
Only a stone’s throw from the bay, we travel via our centre bus and incorporate Beach and Bush Kinder weekly into our program. Other classes include Music and Movement, Indigenous Wellbeing and Mindfulness sessions and Art classes with Robyn’s Room, as well as visits to the local aged care facility for our Intergenerational program.
With large natural outdoor environments and six inviting rooms, the children spend their days exploring their world, creating positive friendships and developing empathy and respect. Our curriculum reinforces connections with nature and encourages autonomy, problem-solving and creativity.
We invite you to tour our service to see for yourself the homelike play spaces and feel the family and community vibe that is Mt Eliza House. There are currently vacancies for governmentfunded three and four-year-old kindergarten, so enrol now.
A short detour off Nepean Highway, between Frankston and Mornington, sees you meander into the charming, tree-lined village of Mount Eliza. A thriving town with that classic small-town feel we all love hosts an eclectic mix of independent retail stores, much-loved cafes and restaurants, artisan supermarkets, beauty salons and professional services. You’ll want for nothing as you wander the streets and laneways. Follow us on Facebook @MtElizaVillage and Instagram @mteliza_village for what’s happening in the bestkept secret on the Mornington Peninsula.
Butterken Bakery: Organic artisan bakery dedicated to handcrafting sourdough bread, with a German flare offering authentic rye, pretzels and cake. Seating, coffee and sandwiches are also available to enjoy Thursday – Saturday, 8am –4pm and Sunday, 8am – 2pm.2/54 Mount Eliza Way, P. 7042 1010, IG: butterken_bakery_ FB: @Butterkenbakery
Essence of Style: A thoughtfully curated collection of bold and bohemian clothing, eye-catching accessories and island-inspired homewares.
87 Mount Eliza Way, P. 0425 811 185, www.essenceofstyle.com.au
Hunter and Minx: New season arrivals for men and women to suit our coastal lifestyle.
44 Ranelagh Drv, P. 03 9787 8227 www.hunterminx.com.au IG: @hunterminx
3/86 Mount Eliza Way,
Shop 7/54 Mount Eliza Way, P. 0412 069 480, www.wmethod.com.au
1001 Nights: A rare jewel of the Middle East on the Mornington Peninsula, beaconing diners from far and wide to enjoy its fresh, authentic cuisine and warm ambience.
P. 9787 5565, www.1001nightsrestaurant.com
W Method Pilates: W Method has created an innovative Pilates program designed to build strength, fitness and confidence; hosted at their stunning studio in the heart of Mount Eliza.
Impact Realty: Proudly supporting the community and servicing the Mornington Peninsula in Sales & Property Management.
55 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 7308, www.impactrealtygroup.com.au
Reprieve Recycled Clothing: Linda is excited to be celebrating 10 years in the business. Her store features high-quality, preloved designer labels across apparel, shoes and high-end handbags. 6/89 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 2499 FB: @Reprieve-RecycledDesignerLabels
Pop and Selma’s: The classic cafe vibes and fare for which it was made famous are alive and well. Enjoy great coffee, sweet treats and hearty favourites served with a smile.
34 Ranelagh Drv, P. 0457 494 779
IG: @popscafe2022
Pollen by Hunter and Minx: New arrivals from our favourite Danish label Mos Mosh and our coveted European footwear brands.
6/87 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9775 3999, www.hunterminx.com.au IG: @hunterminx
Mount Eliza Groom Room: Every pooch deserves pampering, and there is no better place for your little love to feel special with a wash, a trim and a treat.
11/87 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 3811
FB: @Mt Eliza Groom Room
Lotus: A healing space specialising in chiropractic, clinical psychology, myotherapy, massage, Pilates and complementary therapies for the whole family.
17 Ranelagh Drv, P. 9787 8288, www.lotuschiro.com
The Smile Place Mt Eliza is at the cutting edge of dentistry and well-being. Principal dentist Dr Andre Schertel and his team forge strong relationships with their patients to ensure ultimate comfort and confidence.
Single-day dentistry has revolutionised dental care, providing patients with a more convenient way to receive their treatment. It’s made possible with the dental 3D scanner, which allows dentists to create highly detailed, three-dimensional images of a patient's mouth to plan and execute treatments with high accuracy and precision. From single porcelain restorations, crowns and veneers to precisionguided implants and bridges, this technology allows for faster, more efficient treatments and ensures that patients receive the best possible care. This technology is also used for Smile Makeovers, where
your new smile is entirely digitally designed, allowing you to try it out in real life.
The Smile Place Mt Eliza is the go-to destination for anyone looking for a more efficient and effective way to receive dental treatments.
The Smile Place Mt Eliza is also sponsoring the MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival on Sunday, March 19, at Mount Eliza Regional Park. Come meet the team and support a great cause. Even the Tooth Fairy promised a visit!
THE SMILE PLACE MT ELIZA
A: 1299 Nepean Highway, Mount Eliza T: 9775 4600
W: www.thesmileplace.com.au
FB: TheSmilePlaceMtEliza INSTA: thesmileplace
At the southern end of the Mornington Peninsula Freeway you’ll find three of the region’s most delightful villages: Rosebud and Capel Sound towards the coast, and Boneo just a little further inland.
Rosebud is packed with incredible boutique restaurants and cafes, fresh produce outlets, retailers, shops that sell vintage and antique goods and collectables, and its very own cinema. Have a swim in the crystal-clear waters off Rosebud Pier and the foreshore, where you can take in the view of the city as the ships pass by.
Just along the road is Capel Sound, a quaint shopping strip whose attractions include a general store, ice-cream hut, music venue, take-away stores and restaurants. If you head back towards the freeway and continue south you will come to Boneo, where fresh produce, a discovery park and vibrant markets await.
Rosebud, Capel Sound and Boneo make this part of the Peninsula a fantastic place to visit. You’ll love it here.
$11,995* pp, twin share
Flights included & save $3,000 per couple or no solo supplement*
Meet the experts to discover River, Ocean and Small Ship Cruising holidays in Europe, the Kimberley, Vietnam & Cambodia, Antarctica and Canada & Alaska.
The Rocks Mornington
Wednesday 15 March 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Register your place today with Helloworld Travel Rosebud Plaza Shop R068, Corner Boneo Rd & McCombe St Rosebud, VIC 3939 P: (03) 5986 5222
E: rosebudplaza@helloworld.com.au
*Conditions apply. SEE: aptouring.com.au/SpecialDeals for full conditions. Book by 31 March 2023 unless sold out prior. Prices are per person (pp), AUD, twin share and include port charges and savings. Prices correct as of 16 February 2023. Prices based on GKKCD11S: 7 September 2023 (Superior Stateroom). FLIGHTS INCLUDED + SAVE $3,000 PER COUPLE: Includes airfare and taxes up to the value of $1,000 per person. Offer valid when booking Tour Code(s) GKKCB11S and GKKCD11S departing July to September 2023. NO SOLO SUPPLEMENT: Not combinable with any other offer. Offer valid when booking Tour Code(s) GKKCB11S, GKKCD11S, GKKCB11 and GKKCD11 on select dates departing July to September 2023. DEPOSITS: a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 pp is due within 7 days of booking. Final payment is due 100 days prior to the tour departure date. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd. ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825.APT-3645-HWT-MP
Latin American flavours with hints of South East Asia.
'Hawker' style approach menu with food designed to be shared or enjoyed individually.
With an innovative cocktail list, imported and locally sourced wines, why not take a seat in the bar area and enjoy late into the evenings
OPEN 7 DAYS - Mon-Fri 11.30am-late
Sat-Sun Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner 9am-late
Say goodbye to dry cracked feet and heels thanks to Olieve & Olie. Their Soothing Foot Bar is full of goodness that will delight your feet. The mesmerising scents of peppermint, spearmint, rosemary, tea-tree and lemon will work their magic while also combating odours. Simply take the refreshingly scented bar and rub it gently over the skin on your foot and watch it melt into your skin. We suggest that the best time to apply it is before bed, or in the morning after a shower before you put your socks on. Our top tip is to keep our Soothing Foot Bar in your sock drawer so that you never forget to apply it.
To care for your feet, the nourishing blend of organic butters, oils and waxes work together in unison to rehydrate your skin. Believe us when we tell you that this little but mighty bar truly is magic for cracked heels.
Visit Olieve & Olie’s factory shop front from 9am-4pm on weekdays or Saturday 10am-2pm; it’s closed on public holidays and Sundays.
You can shop online or find your nearest stockist at olieveandolie.com.au
International Women’s Day has always been a major event for us at Mornington Peninsula Magazine, but after the turmoil of the past few years it feels particularly important to stand together this year.
Cracking the Code: Innovation For A Gender-Equal Future is the theme for IWD 2023 on March 8, #EmbraceEquity, and we invite you to join us in adding our voices to those across the Peninsula and around the world in shouting for equal rights loud and clear:
“Women’s rights are human rights!”
This is a day to celebrate all women in all their diversity and to embrace their facets and intersections of faith, race, ethnicity, gender or sexual identity, or disability.
Join us as we celebrate the achievements of women in our community, whether social, political, economic or cultural, on the following pages and at the many local events over the coming days.
In this IWD issue of Mornington Peninsula Magazine, we’re focusing on the achievements of enterprising women and community leaders in Greater Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. We’re proud to shine a light on the contribution they make to where we live. Over the next 20 pages you’ll read stories of remarkable women and their businesses; you’ll also hear from inspiring women sharing their talents.
Mornington Peninsula Magazine is a huge supporter of local business and we have a predominantly female team. This is always a very special edition where some of the women featured this month have been our clients for 16 years. We feel privileged to bring you 33 amazing women and the stories about their lives and their businesses. Many have unique offerings you may indeed have been looking for.
Support local and shop local at our wonderful local businesses – especially those run by women – to celebrate International Women’s Day.
In 2006, publisher Lisa Walton realised that local media on the Mornington Peninsula did nothing to showcase the myriad of unique, bespoke and individual businesses or interesting people within our community. So she launched Mornington Life, a uber-cool quarterly magazine delivered to Mount Eliza, Mornington and Mount Martha. It was an instant success and quickly grew to cover the entire Mornington Peninsula.
In December 2013, Mornington Life was renamed Mornington Peninsula Magazine and became a monthly publication. Already well established on social media, Mornington Peninsula Magazine grew in leaps and bounds as the preferred advertising medium over traditional newsprint. The Independent News Group became Fairfax and closed down, Leader closed down, and the Mornington Peninsula News Group was suddenly the only local newspaper. Meanwhile, Mornington Peninsula Magazine remained focused, supporting community groups and charities and assisting small businesses with their marketing – online, on social media and in print. Now with a following of more than 40,000 on social media and more than 110,000 readers a month in print and online, Mornington Peninsula Magazine is a media leader in the community.
Lisa has more than 40 years of experience in print media. Growing up on the Peninsula, she moved to Melbourne in her early 20s and took up a position with the Emerald Hill and Sandridge Times, becoming publisher of this and three other titles. At just 27, Lisa became chairwoman of Australian Suburban Newspapers’ Victorian branch. In the late
1980s she established Barfly Magazine and Travelling North while living in Port Douglas and Cairns for nine years.
Slowly 'coming home', she moved to Sydney to run On The Street, Australia's first 'street' press. She then finally returned to her beloved Mornington Peninsula, where she established an advertising agency in Frankston before getting back into publishing. Mt Eliza Village was the first magazine she started, followed by Mornington Life, which became Mornington Peninsula Magazine.
Lisa's love of live music, her passion for the environment and local produce, coupled with her ability to find amazing local people and businesses to showcase, means Mornington Peninsula Magazine and her other titles – Eat.Drink Mornington Peninsula, and Holiday Mornington Peninsula – are now a vital part of our community. Lisa's publications support more than 250 local charities and groups annually. Over many years Lisa has established and joined business and community groups and supported local innovators.
After the undeniable challenges of the past few years, Lisa looks forward to 2023 offering opportunities and ongoing success for Mornington Peninsula and Greater Frankston businesses as our region regains its reputation as a hot spot for all the right reasons.
When it comes to women, there is often a massive gap in the financial literacy regarding their salary, superannuation, and investments, creating a considerable impact on a woman’s financial future. Smart Private Wealth set out to close the gap by creating a financial education series designed exclusively for women who have ignored their finances for too long but don’t know where to go or how to start.
“We designed The Woman Series after identifying that many women within our community are not up to speed on their own financial situation,” says Smart Private Wealth founding director Shannon Smit. “Whether you’re saving for your first home, mid-life and wondering where your money has gone, managing your own investment properties or suddenly single through divorce, illness or loss, our online series has got you covered.”
The Woman Series is set across six key topics, including:
• Financial Goal Setting
• Supercharge your Super
• Insurance Stripped Bare
• Rebuilding After Divorce
• Plan for a Rich Future
• Peace of Mind with The End in Mind
“Taking time to ask yourself the big questions can be daunting and empowering at the same time,” Shannon says. “Planning for life and its ups and downs is the first step.”
Smart Private Wealth is passionate about educating women so they can control life on their own terms. The Woman Series is available to watch online. Watch the series to achieve a well-rounded picture of how to approach your finances, and reach out to the team at Smart Private Wealth for assistance in taking command of your finances.
Grendesign are a team of passionate, female designers offering web design, digital solutions and marketing support to make your business stand out from the crowd. We have been in the business since 2010 and remain passionate about what we do.
A flexible work-life balance is promoted within our team of expert creators in an effort to meet the needs of all families. Our goal is to create a work environment where people want to come into the office because we support one another. As part of our team of women, we have creative entrepreneurs, mothers, and small business owners.
It is important to us that every member of our team is valued, regardless of their background and contribution to our business. Whether it is an afternoon appointment with a doctor or an assembly to present a prize to a young person, we ensure that everyone has the flexibility to handle the demands of everyday life.
We are striving to integrate agency, business, and personal life seamlessly into our lives, so we don't allow drama in the office either, because we sincerely care about our fellow employees. Through open and clear communication, we support each other, learn from our mistakes, and, most importantly, celebrate our successes.
We realise that building a business from the ground up takes hard work and a passion for it, which is why our team has a diverse mix of creative and small business backgrounds.
Talk to our team about how we can help with your graphic design, website or marketing solution so you can reach your goals with ease. We use a collaborative approach to each of our clients so that their ideas are nurtured and brought to life.
GRENDESIGN
A: 1/33A Dava Drive, Mornington
T: 5975 6548
W: www.grendesign.com.au
FB: grendesign.agency
INSTA: grendesign.agency
Dennice Allen has a passion for lifelong learning and wasn’t afraid to make a career switch.
Angela Lord has come a long way since first enticing people with Sri Lankan food from her mobile food truck – and it was love at first bite with a fifth placing in The Age’s top 10 Melbourne food trucks in 2020. Angela began cooking as an eightyear-old and has been on a learning curve ever since, working in the food industry and wearing many hats before opening Ceylon Girl’s in Frankston just over two years ago.
Ceylon Girl’s – a reference to Angela’s heritage – is a delight to behold. This art-filled café serves delicious food from a variety of cuisines. The offering is simple but truly wonderful. Everything served here is made fresh using excellent ingredients. This is food cooked with skill and, more importantly, love. “My satisfaction is knowing my customers are satisfied with their food,” she says. “Sri Lankan cuisine is a melting pot of different cultures from the Dutch,
Portuguese, English, and surrounding countries. What unites them is the quality. I only use the very freshest and best Sri Lankan spices. I make my own spice blends from scratch.”
Angela is passionate about supporting local producers, sourcing more than 90 per cent of her produce from the Frankston area. She also supports local musicians, charities and community services, providing food and even her café for a range of events. “I am a huge believer in giving back to the community.”
Mornington Peninsula Magazine food writer Richard Cornish described Ceylon Girl’s – “said to be the best Sri Lankan restaurant in Melbourne” – as “warm, honest and simple. Sri Lankan ex-pats flock from all parts of the metro area to dine on classic dishes from the tropical island nation”.
CEYLON GIRL’S CAFÉ & BAR
A: 16 Skye Rd, Frankston
T: 0412 383 252
W: ceylongirlscafe.com.au
“I haven't quite walked a straight line throughout my life,” Dennice says. “I gained graduate and postgraduate qualifications in economics and finance, and then most of my working career was spent in financial services in senior management roles, including board member positions both overseas and in Australia. I began lecturing part-time while gaining postgraduate studies in tertiary education.”
In recent times, Dennice transitioned from finance to spending more time pursuing her passions: exercise and wellness. After completing an advanced diploma in myotherapy, Dennice started her company Motion for Momentum.
“I’ve swum intermittently throughout my life, as a youngster then switching over to triathlons and Masters swimming in my adult years. My role as a myotherapist and as a sport and exercise scientist allows me to focus my research on wellness in adults and the super-aged. In early 2022 I achieved a Masters development coach, a role that is very rewarding. I’m the founding president of Mornington Peninsula Masters Swimming Club, a young, vibrant squad who began early in 2020.”
Dennice brings many years of experience to her work with an empathy for the older exercise/sporting enthusiast. Her focus is
providing an experience for post-40-yearolds to come and enjoy a therapeutic or sports massage and obtain a specialised exercise program. Reap the rewards of taking time out to allow the mind and body time to relax in a comfortable environment, and bit of motion can result in great momentum.
A: 102 Myers Rd, Bittern
T: 0450 244 863
W: www.motionformomentum.com.au
Safety Beach Medical and Wellness Practice opened in February 2021 and has been embraced by the community as a much-needed medical centre. Growing to meet the needs of its community, Safety Beach Medical and Wellness Practice is a purpose-built medical centre providing outstanding, inclusive and compassionate care to the highest clinical standards.
With predominantly female GPs and allied health professionals, you will find a very strong female-led staffing team that includes nurses and the practice manager. Our team of women specialise in women’s health services including maternity shared care, pregnancy yoga, birth preparation, pelvic floor physiotherapy and clinical Pilates sessions. The team are experienced in contraception for growing young women, sexual health care as well as having a female psychologist to meet patients’ mental health needs. The newly built practice, set in a beautiful location opposite the bay, is open and respectful
of gender diversity and sexuality. All patients are treated with respect and understanding.
This progressive family practice offers a range of health and wellness services under one roof, including GPs, physiotherapy, podiatry, dietetics, psychology, remedial massage, clinical Pilates, urology and cardiology.
Started by husband and wife GPs Rob and Sarah Jeffs, Safety Beach Medical and Wellness Practice is a fully accredited practice that works closely with local specialists, public health services and women’s health services to provide accessible and up to date medical care.
Safety Beach Medical and Wellness Practice is committed to delivering exceptional medical and wellness support to all members of the community.
SAFETY BEACH MEDICAL AND WELLNESS PRACTICE
A: 161 Marine Drive, Safety Beach
T: 9070 8170
W: www.safetybeachmedical.com.au
FB: safetybeachmedicalandwellness
INSTA: safetybeachmedicalandwellness
If you’ve ever thought you were too old to learn Tai Chi and Qigong, Rising Moon Tai Chi business principal Sifu Jenny Harrison has a message for you.
“Thankfully, we live in an age where learning and growth are encouraged,” Jenny says. “Henry Ford believed ‘anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young’. New research supports this opinion. Unlike other organs, the brain has the ability to constantly change. We can improve cognitive function, we can slow the ageing process and enhance memory. Continuous learning also increases our self-confidence; we become more social and we enjoy a feeling of fulfilment because of our accomplishments. Learning a new skill as an adult is empowering.
“No longer are we in school, so we don’t have to follow the rules. We don’t have to be good at something. We don’t need to worry about peer pressure and negative
opinion. We can take our time, we can be curious, we can try anything we want to. Our memories of what may have been harsh school days can fade into obscurity as we embrace the joy of learning.”
All you need are patience and commitment; Jenny’s 30-plus years of experience have given her the skills to teach effectively and vary her program to suit all abilities and experiences. She will guide you gently through your beginner classes, giving you confidence and skills to progress to a higher standard.
Don’t wait until ‘the right time’ to try something new – dive into the deep end, take the bull by the horns, bite the bullet, take the plunge and enjoy the opportunities 2023 has to offer.
RISING MOON TAI CHI
T: 0418 566 216
W: www.risingmoontaichi.net
FB: risingmoontaichi
INSTA: risingmoontaichi
LEARNING CHANNEL: watch. risingmoontaichi.net
Giuliana grew up on an egg farm in Keysborough in the South Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne, where she and her siblings were busy collecting eggs every weekend and school holiday. Her father and mother began the business back in the 1970’s working long hours collecting, selling and delivering eggs along with managing the farm. Shortly after she was married, Giuliana was drawn back to the farm in 2012 following the passing of her parents. Giuliana and her husband started a new business called Talking Hens on the farm in Keysborough and spent 5 years learning to be free-range egg farmers. In that time they slowly grew the business then transitioned into selling backyard hens to families. In
2018 they moved to the Mornington Peninsula and focussed on selling backyard chickens and all associated products and services which is where their passion lies.
Giuliana talks about the growth of the business being both challenging yet very rewarding. She says that “with hard work and being adaptable to changing situations, we’ve now been able to successfully establish Talking Hens on our Merricks farm. We were fortunate enough to be awarded a 2022 Business Excellence Award from the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in October last year. We have a lot of exciting things planned for the future but our focus is always on customer support, education and being increasingly sustainable in our business”.
We are always looking for better ways to run our business and that starts with our products becoming more sustainable. We recently introduced our new biodegradable and recyclable Sustainable Layer™ chicken feed bags. Customers receive a store credit for every bag they return to us in good condition to be sanitised and reused. This means that, unlike the vast majority of chicken feed bags, ours won’t be added to landfill. We find that the environment, our customers and our business can all benefit.
We have recently completed our first sustainable farm building and chicken coop made from hempcrete. Not only is hempcrete fireproof, but it is also insect and rodent proof and provides a very healthy and comfortable environment for the inhabitants. At the end of its useful life, a hempcrete structure can be re-used to build again or spread on farmland to break-down into compost.
If you’d like to talk hens with Giuliana and Jason, drop by their farm and get cracking!
Talking Hens will be holding their 4th Annual Open Weekend on March 18-19 from 10am - 4pm.
Free activities include:
• Petting Zoo
• Pony Rides
• Face Painting
• Craft Activities
• Food van/Coffee/Icecream
• Daily presentations on backyard hens and more
• $200 Voucher drawn daily
TALKING HENS
A: 3590 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Merricks
T: 0406 691 231
W: www.talkinghens.com.au
FB: TalkingHens INSTA: TalkingHens
Peninsula resident Lauren Gillard took over Purrfect Wax three and a half years ago, renamed it Sea Skin Beauty and has not looked back, building it into a thriving small business.
“As a team, we have over 20 years’ experience in the industry, and we work exclusively with Algologie and Fleur De Mer skin care products,” Lauren says. “We specialise in waxing, tanning, laser hair removal, IPL, facials, skin rejuvenation, improving skin health, micro needling, and lashes and brows.”
Sea Skin Beauty’s skin treatments are all tailor-made to each client, customised
to address all skin concerns and meet each client’s individual needs. “We focus on treating the source of any skin issue and getting maximum results out of treatments and at-home care. We like to keep treatments active and results-based, with a strong focus on natural ingredients and natural treatments; non-invasive is key for us.”
Conveniently located in the heart of the Peninsula on the corner of Boneo and Point Nepean roads in Rosebud, Sea Skin Beauty boasts a client base that stretches from Frankston to Portsea, and Lauren says she’s blessed to have such wonderful, loyal clients. “We love building relationships with all our clients, getting to really know their skin and their needs.”
Sea Skin Beauty is a regular donor at charity events and functions, and the staff love to get involved and assist the community any way they can.
If you want professional services at affordable rates, call now or book online. If you mention you saw this in Mornington Peninsula Magazine, you will receive 20 per cent off any treatment (conditions apply).
Sea Skin Beauty is open Tuesday to Friday, and weekends by request.
SEA SKIN BEAUTY
A: Shop 3/1451 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud
T: 0432 944 574
W: www.seaskinbeauty.com.au
INSTA: seaskinbeauty
From the beginning in 2017, in-home services business Henrietta’s Help @ Home’s director Stephanie Tate has recognised that her time, energy and skills needed to be equally focused on getting traction with both clients and staff to build not just the financial side of the business, but stability, reputation and satisfaction for all parties involved. With client bookings reoccurring over multiple years, and many of the earliest intake of staff still on board, Stephanie feels that “collectively we’ve got this sorted”.
Stephanie’s previous corporate and project management experience easily transferred to identifying clients, as well as providing individual written agreements so that parties were informed and expectations could be met. However, this equally required recruiting multi-skilled, reliable staff who were willing to meet the
flexibility of each client’s needs.
“Although we have multiple service segments covering senior support, child care, cleaning/home management and private event hospitality, we pride ourselves in not having a standardised ‘cookie cutter’ offer in any of these categories. Many staff utilise multiple skills and experience with one client, such that we can provide nanny/cooks, senior support/house managers as well as our renowned additional services – wedding nannies and wedding senior carers.”
Henrietta’s Help @ Home is equally proud of the fact that they provide regular part-time employment to many women who are returning to the workforce or may require work in school hours. “Skills, personality and reliability are the key criteria; the rest just flows when they meet our appreciative, friendly clients,” says Stephanie.
HENRIETTA’S HELP @ HOME
T: 9766 1099 or 0425 733 290
W: www.henriettashelpathome.com.au
FB: Henriettas Help at Home
Turning Heads Body Sculpting brings the latest in beauty technology to the Mornington Peninsula. From non-invasive and painless technology that removes fat with ultrasound fat cavitation to face lifts, toning and that much desired butt lift, Turning Heads is here to help.
Another addition to Rye’s already popular Keke Wellness, Turning Heads is spearheaded by the ever-forward-
thinking Jody, who has always believed that every woman has the right to be the best version of herself. Jody, who in her own words is a “bit of a wuss”, was looking for a painless way of keeping herself young and toned, so she started researching various treatments. After trying them and absolutely loving the results, she decided to offer them to other women. So she qualified in all modules required for ultrasound fat cavitation, RF skin tightening, cellulite reduction and LED light therapy.
Although she’s in her late 60s, Jody says she’s always told she looks years younger, and that’s all thanks to the range of wonderful beauty treatments she employs at Turning Heads and the incredible Jan Marini skincare range, which has been named the best anti-ageing skincare product 12 years in a row.
Turning Heads offers a range of treatments designed to improve your skin and target any stubborn areas of loose skin on your body or face and any cellulite concerns you may have. Complete your beauty transformation with LED light therapy using one of the best and most advanced LED machines on the market today.
TURNING HEADS BODY SCULPTING
A: Point Nepean Rd, Rye
T: 0424 741 008
W: www.turningheadsbodysculpting. com.au
INSTA: turningheadsbodysculpting
Photography has changed a lot since Brooke Keam first picked up a camera 16 years ago. What hasn’t changed is Brooke’s intense passion for her art.
Brooke is a fashion, beauty and branding photographer based on the Mornington Peninsula but who also regularly works in Melbourne. She started her photography journey as a 16-year-old learning on film, and her love of soft and feminine light is reflected in her style and embraced by her clients in the fashion and beauty industry. She has also had her work published in multiple magazines, including gracing the covers of Spain’s Ella’s Mag and the US’s Style Cruz.
Brooke is more than just a photographer – she’s also project manager, your own personal cheerleader and new bestie wrapped up into one smiley human. Most importantly, she doesn’t take life too seriously and loves to have fun while photographing. She’s the epitome of the saying “do what you love and it’ll never feel like work”.
In 2023, Brooke stepped out of her comfort zone and began sharing pieces of her personal work with the world in the form of fine art prints, which are now available to purchase on her website.
If you’re a business owner in the fashion and beauty industry, Brooke Keam is the name to remember for your next photoshoot.
BROOKE KEAM PHOTOGRAPHY
W: www.brookekeamphotography.com.au
E: brooke.keam@gmail.com
FB: brookekeamphoto
INSTA: brookekeam_photography
Sarah Adele is a business mentor, somatic therapist and movement specialist whose work is shaped around a simple truth: that the mind and body are innately connected. This forms the foundation of her mentoring, coaching and courses, where she empowers women to thrive in body, being and business and create a life they’re wildly proud of.
Sarah loves to remind women “that vision you have, that deep desire, it’s not selfish or something to ignore. It is whispers from your soul leading you to your highest potential”. Are you ready for the key that will unlock yourself from where you are and the map to guide you to where you want to be personally and professionally? Sarah is here to welcome you with open arms, remind you of all that’s possible and reunite you with the belief, confidence and motivation to get you there.
It's time to bring your vision to life and break through anything standing in your way.
A mentor with 25 years as a successful entrepreneur,
Sarah shares with you her lived experience in business and invaluable expertise in well-being for the body and mind. What makes Sarah different is that she is here to support you in your wholeness:
• Physical: She cares as much about your body as she does about your business;
• Mental: She is here to ensure your subconscious beliefs support your conscious desires;
• Emotional: She will guide you to release any emotional blocks holding you back;
• Spiritual: She honours your energetic self and the divine intelligence always available to us.
If your body was another person, how would you describe the way you treat her? The way you think about her? Sacred Union is your opportunity to rekindle the relationship between you and your body, to get to know her again, to listen to her and to remember that she has the key to set you free.
You are the ruler of your life who possesses supreme and unlimited power within you. Have you forgotten
that? Does this no longer feel true to you? Sovereign Self is your invitation to reclaim calm, confidence, positivity, health and purpose. It is a time of resolution for you to become the embodiment of your desires and break through anything standing in your way.
Whether you’re looking to start, grow or evolve your business, there’s no denying a mentor makes the process easier, more effective and most importantly more enjoyable. Enlightened Business Mentoring welcomes you to discover how invaluable community and networking is. It’s designed to incorporate the soul, strategy and systems for you to create a thriving, sustainable and fulfilling business.
Experience the power of connection, conversation and clarity as you surround yourself with high-level thinking, knowing that anything is possible and that people believe in you. Private business mentoring is also available.
SARAH ADELEA: 4/7 Trewhitt Court, Dromana
T: 0481 126 002
W: www.sarahadele.com.au
INSTA: i_am_sarahadele
Kay Tyrie is a people person and making people happy in her business, Main Street Eyecare, is the highlight of her job. “I love seeing the confidence and spring in their step when customers know they look good in their new purchase,” says Kay. “Having people return to tell us that they were stopped in the street and asked where they got their spectacles from makes my heart soar.”
Kay started in the optical industry in the UK during the 1970s after an optometrist friend offered her a job and trained her. Kay has owned Main Street Eyecare for 21 years and worked there personally for more than 10 years. She believes eyewear is the most important accessory one can wear. “Even more important than a new handbag or pair of shoes, since the eyes are the first point of contact we make. We don't all wear the same clothes, so why wear the same spectacles?” Main Street Eyecare’s motto has always been ‘Eyewear as individual as you are’. Offering personalised customer service is what drives Kay. “I love the interaction with each customer and finding the right frame just for them, matching colour, style and shape to their own look and personality. We strive for customers to have an experience, feeling special and part of the family, rather than simply
Sheree is the owner and face of Doll Face Aesthetics, a cosmetic injectables business conveniently located in Frankston. Sheree is a long-time local, growing up on the Peninsula. Sheree and her family live and breathe the Peninsula, with her children attending school in Mount Eliza and also participating in community sport.
Doll Face Aesthetics was just a dream 12 months ago, and now it’s an exciting reality for Sheree. Owning her own business has always been a goal of hers, and while it comes with challenges and countless hours of work, the rewards are endless.
Doll Face Aesthetics offers a range of cosmetic injectables, including antiwrinkle and dermal fillers. With small, relatively painless injections, your profile can be enhanced, creating subtle changes to your facial features. Sheree also offers a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and goals and create a treatment plan.
making a purchase, and I love it when someone drops in just for a chat and to share their day.”
MAIN STREET EYECARE
A: Shop 7/68 Barkly St, Mornington (pop-up shop)
T: 5975 3235
FB: mainstreeteyecare3931
INSTA: mainstreeteyecare
Doll Face Aesthetics can treat almost everyone – male or female, wrinkles or no wrinkles, 20 or 50 years old. The beauty of cosmetic injectables is it’s not just to reduce the visibility of wrinkles, it’s also a preventative measure.
Working out of the gorgeous Moss & Co Studio in Frankston, Sheree has a great offer called the Doll Pack. Normally valued at $1000, the Doll Pack includes three areas of anti-wrinkle treatments and 1ml of
lip filler for $850.
Sheree is determined to grow Doll Face Aesthetics organically, using social media to promote and expand her relatively new business. She’s hopeful the community spreads the name Doll Face Aesthetics and helps a girl out by word of mouth to friends and family.
For bookings, contact Sheree via her social media, email or text.
DOLL FACE AESTHETICS
A: 4 The Mall, Frankston
T: 0499 811 421
E: doll__face__aesthetics@outlook.com
FB: doll__face__aesthetics
INSTA: doll__face__aesthetics
Shop 7/68 Barkly St, Mornington (pop-up shop)
P. 5975 3235
Melissa Niblock-Bell is no stranger to business on the Mornington Peninsula. A hairdresser since she was 15, Melissa set up her first salon, Mayko Hair, in 2008 at the age of 20. She followed that with her second salon in Mount Eliza coming to life in 2010 and established Locou in 2020. Melissa’s career so far has won her an array of accolades – she was a finalist in the 2016 Telstra Young Business Woman awards, was named in Global Creative Colourist’s top 10 in Australia in 2018, and won the Matrix Collective in 2021, having been a finalist in 2020 and again last year. “Business and professional growth has been my thing alongside creating beautiful hair,” Melissa says. Locou, her latest venture, came about in 2020 when she noticed her blondes were always over-toned and dull when they came back to her between services. “Being an international master colourist, I decided to think deep about how to keep my blonde bright, not dull, ashy or purple. So I started creating glossy toners using black. I managed to get crisp, bright blondes and thought if I can create this type of glossy toner, why can’t we have home care that is the same – doesn’t over-tone, create a dull, dark finish, or stain your hands.
“So Locou Hair + Science was born. Who said hairdressers were dumb and uneducated? It’s taken me three years to create my own unique and revolutionary black-based toning shampoo for blondes, which acts like a glossy cellophane toner
If you’ve been in business for a while, it can be easy to become complacent. But Pippa Hanson, owner of Frankston’s The Sports Injury Clinic, has so much passion for helping people achieve and feel better in their bodies, and she ensures her team are across the latest research and innovations in physiotherapy and sports medicine.
Pippa, who is renowned for her community involvement, has owned The Sports Injury Clinic for nearly 20 years. The clinic specialises in helping those experiencing all kinds of physiological issues that impact their daily life –from back pain and torn ligaments to headaches and arthritis.
to The Sports Injury Clinic’s motivational fitness challenges, such as the Move It In May initiative that’s designed to help people keep their fitness up as the weather cools down, when people might need a little extra encouragement to exercise.
for your hair. Complete anti-brass doesn’t matter if you are a blonde or brunette. It was time for a different perspective on toning.”
MAYKO HAIR
A: Shop 3/70 Mountain View Rd, Mount Eliza
T: 9787 3489
M: 0407 248 275
W: www.maykohair.com.au
FB: Mayko Hair
INSTA: mel_bell_colourist
Not only does Pippa lead her team with a blend of empathy and genuine care, she is also super-enthusiastic about providing patients with cutting-edge solutions and high-quality service. The business recently invested, for example, in state-of-the-art training from Complete Concussions, an international organisation that has developed leading tools and strategies to treat patients suffering from concussion. Pippa’s mission to improve health and well-being in the community extends
The business is also a big supporter of local sporting organisations, and sponsors local athletes so they can be in the peak physical shape needed to pursue their dreams. In other words, Pippa Hanson is someone who truly believes in the power of positive well-being — and she’s committed to consistently evolving The Sports Injury Clinic for her staff and patients.
THE SPORTS INJURY CLINIC
A: 365-367 Nepean Highway, Frankston
T: 9783 9990
W: www.tsic.com.au
FB: TSICPeninsula
INSTA: tsic.com.au
Bernadine Geary concedes running your own business can sometimes be lonely – but it doesn't have to be. Bernadine has been an entrepreneur for 30 years, and setting up businesses from scratch, or purchasing and reinventing them, is what she does best.
“My latest and hopefully last ventures are two quite diverse businesses,” Bernadine says. “One is a finance and mortgage broking business, Style Finance Group, that I set up five years ago. The other is Sk8house, the roller-skating rink and skating retail shop in Carrum Downs that I share with my husband Kevin and our business partner Mark.
“We bought the rink in 2015 and transformed it into a family and entertainment venue. Holding anything from birthday parties to large corporate functions is something we specialise in, and I get a kick out of seeing the rink transformed into a completely fun themed place.
“Both businesses keep me on my toes, and there are days that it seems like the world is spinning off its axis. That's why I have some strong women surrounding and supporting me in my businesses. If I didn't, I wouldn't be able to achieve what I do.
“I strongly recommend getting involved in your local chamber. I took on a board position with the Frankston Business Collective. Not only do I get the opportunity to give back to the community, but it gives tenfold back to me through networking and meeting people with common issues and challenges in their own businesses. This, combined with other business support and networking groups such as the Women's Commercial Finance Forum, not only help with resources but fill my spiritual cup.
“So it doesn't have to be a lonely place running your own business after all.”
SK8HOUSE
A: Unit 3/2 Amayla Cres, Carrum Downs
T: 9773 6799
W: www.sk8house.com.au
“Women have made significant progress since the suffrage movement of the 1880s,” says Yo-Ko Original Boutique proprietor Anne Spoelder.
“Notwithstanding, it is acknowledged by women that there are still so many opportunities for growth and change –that’s why it is so good to recognise and celebrate International Women’s Day each year,” Anne says. “It is one day in the calendar year when women celebrate one another – their achievements, their beliefs, and their causes.”
Reflecting on her 14 years in business, Anne says: “I’m so thankful for the women who have gone before me in leadership roles; those who have worked tirelessly to have their voices heard and achievements recognised, who have opened and led the way with their pioneering spirit, encouraging future and potential leaders in many areas, including business, community, and politics.
“There is no doubt that women underpin the family unit, and volunteering roles within schools and/or communities, all while working in their chosen vocation or mentoring and passing valuable skills on to other women. And these are the
women that I want to celebrate this International Women’s Day.”
YO KO ORIGINAL BOUTIQUE
A: 33 Armstrongs Rd, Seaford
P: 0418 525 872
W: www.yokooriginal.com.au
FB: yokooriginal
INSTA: yokooriginal
Bernadine
Seeing the rink transformed into a corporate venue brought a tear to my eye, it was amazing!
Geary
Kimberley Kidger is an avid vegetable and herb gardener with a love of simple, natural living and herbal medicine. Born on the Mornington Peninsula, she initially studied nursing before moving on to herbalism. It was from here that the evolution of Polly's Farm began.
Polly’s Farm is a botanical skincare brand handcrafted from natural ingredients. It was born of a passion for the healing, nourishing powers of nature and a belief in the wonders we can create with a small plot of land and a big dream.
This boutique business began at home with a small garden and a kitchen stove. Kimberley is a huge believer that we can do so much with so little, particularly when it comes to growing herbs and producing natural products that are good for us and our planet. We can recognise every ingredient in these products we’re absorbing into
our skin, and each one is specifically chosen for the nourishment they provide to our bodies.
Kimberley sources only the purest ingredients for her products, growing them herself where possible on her tiny plot of land. Extra virgin olive oil, which forms their foundation, is grown and produced on the Mornington Peninsula and is of the highest quality – Kimberley uses this same oil on her salads! The result is a range of soaps and scrubs filled with antioxidants and vitamins to provide the ultimate natural nourishment for your skin.
The soaps accommodate all skin types – even our furry friends are catered for – each bar being handmade using traditional small-batch cold process methods and cured for at least two months, allowing for increased longevity.
Polly’s Farm also offers a range of pure soy wax candles mixed with natural ingredients for a gentle scent throw.
As sustainability is at the forefront of the brand’s values, all their candles are biodegradable. To further impress,
the candles are designed to be a keepsake long after they have been snuffed, with thyme seeds cleverly woven into the candle label to transform the jar into a beautiful herbal pot plant.
Every product in the Polly’s Farm range is curated with an authentic handmade look and feel and is branded with a clean coastal style, all thoughtfully packaged with materials designed for reuse or recycling.
Alongside the bar soaps, you’ll also find rejuvenating body scrubs, replenishing bath soaks, organic skin salves and nourishing body and hand washes. Visit www. pollysfarm.com.au to check out the stunning range –use promo code MORNPEN at checkout for free delivery across the Peninsula – or to find your nearest stockist.
POLLY’S FARM
T: 0417 313 401
W: www.pollysfarm.com.au
E: info@pollysfarm.com.au
When you’re going through a separation, divorce or parenting dispute, the last thing you want is a lawyer who will draw the process out or make it uglier than it needs to be.
In the early days of her career working in mid-tier city law firms, Annette Lakey saw many families dragged through the courts unnecessarily. Years later, this led to her creating Lakey Family Law, an all-female family law firm focused on helping clients – male and female –achieve the best possible outcome quickly and cost-effectively.
“It would break my heart to see people’s matters drawn out unnecessarily while their lawyers went back and forth, racking up exorbitant fees,” Annette says. “It just wasn’t right. There is a reason why lawyers have the reputation they do.”
Of course, Annette knows that reaching resolution outside the courts isn’t always achievable. “Over the years we’ve represented clients in high-profile and complex property settlements where there has been no choice other than to go to court. In these instances, our focus remains the same: helping our client achieve the best possible outcome for their family as quickly as possible. We focus on reaching resolution rather than fuelling animosity.”
Building on the success of Lakey Family Law in Hawthorn, Annette – a Mount Martha resident – opened an office in Mornington a year ago. As a full-service family law firm, Lakey Family Law is here to advise, guide and represent you in all separation, divorce and parenting matters, including:
• Property settlements;
• Parenting agreements and plans;
Owned and run by Mornington contemporary artist Michele Cleaver, Paint Your World exists to inspire, educate, empower and uplift people through art. This is something
Michele is passionate about, and she believes art and colour play an important role in our lives.
Michele’s love of colour greatly influences her work and is reflected in it. She enjoys the flexibility of painting with acrylics, using texture, collage and exploring various mixed media works. Michele’s styles are equally varied, ranging from the whimsical and quirky through to layered drippy abstracts, often incorporating
figures, words, birds and nature in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours.
But while Michele is herself an accomplished artist, her real passion is fostering a love of art in others. Her motto is “Learn to paint; anyone can”, and through her role as an art tutor she sets out to prove that during regular classes and workshops at her bright and beautiful studio in the heart of Mornington. This is a creative space where children and adults can reconnect with the joy in their life through painting, allowing them to create, play and feel, build confidence, develop new skills, raise self-esteem, and allow for self-expression in a fun and safe environment.
Take your curiosity to the next level and join one of the following classes currently on offer:
• Paint’n’sip nights
• Adults’ art workshops
• Kids’ and tweens’ painting, drawing or digital art
• Private tuition
• Art4All, a four-week NDIS program
• Private bookings for events such as bridal showers, corporate gatherings, birthdays and Christmas parties
Find your mojo and learn to paint with Michele.
A: 15/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington
M: 0417 425 116
E: hello@paintyourworld.com.au
W: www.paintyourworld.com.au
FB: paintyourworld.au
INSTA: paintyourworld.au
Mornington Peninsula Language & Culture Studies has been helping people learn or improve a language since 2012. Managing director Diana Peral says she’s proud to offer her students the opportunity to learn about and understand other cultures.
“One of the things we believe will make your experience with us more enjoyable is that all the teachers are from the country whose language you choose to learn or improve,” Diana says. “We love to share with you our knowledge and the characteristics that make our overseas homes unique, as well as addressing the stereotypes. For instance, my country is more than just ‘paella’ and ‘flamenco’. Also, the lovely atmosphere in the classes and the wonderful people you will meet are a plus.”
Diana has loved to travel since she was a girl, discovering new places and meeting new people, and one of her dreams was to be able to speak more than one language. “So I truly enjoy being able to help our students achieve that goal when they come to MPLCS.”
Diana took over management of the school two years after arriving in Australia and feels “really grateful” to be involved in something she loves. “My challenge is to improve as much as we can our services on site and online, and after moving to a new location in Mornington with better facilities a few months ago, we are looking forward to welcoming you.”
As Nelson Mandela said: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.”
Espero vernos pronto, which means ‘I hope to see you soon’.
MORNINGTON PENINSULA LANGUAGE & CULTURE STUDIES
A: 14/1140 Nepean Highway, Mornington
T: 0401 332 230
W: www.mplcs.com.au
FB: MorningtonPeninsulaLanguageAndCultureStudies
INSTA: mplcs_mornington
Doctors Rachel Duncan and Roxanne Daniels run the family-based Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, focusing on the best patient care and rehabilitation. This clinic is unique, being female-run for more than 30 years in Mount Martha village.
At Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, Rachel and Roxanne take the time to listen to you and tailor care to your specific needs. They have a special focus on pregnancy and family care, and they absolutely love working with people of all ages. You will find that Rachel and Roxanne really enjoy spending extra time with older patients to help improve their well-being.
Chiropractic care is gentle, safe and effective, and the team at Mt Martha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic are nationally registered and regulated health care professionals. “Our bodies have an amazing potential to heal, and our
team love to assist our patients on their health journey,” Rachel says. “Many things can impact our health and the spine: nutrition, stress, sleep, ergonomics, the environment or exercise. The scope of chiropractic is extensive as we seek to improve the well-being of our patients.”
Both Rachel and Roxanne have volunteered internationally and locally to help those who would not be able to access health care otherwise. Rachel has provided care for disadvantaged people from Cambodia to Narre Warren, while Roxanne is about to go to India for two weeks of volunteer work and has contributed to Hands on Health on the Peninsula, which is designed to help people who are struggling to access good health care.
MT MARTHA CHIROPRACTIC & SPORTS INJURY CLINIC
A: Unit 2, 15 Bay Rd, Mount Martha
T: 5974 3477
W: www.mtmarthachiropractic.com
FB: mtmarthachiropractic
INSTA: mtmchiropractic
Caroline Breese worked in design and buying for more than 10 years and used her experience to create Sunday Linen, an online store whose philosophy is focused on making products that are high quality, longlasting and sustainable.
“I adore country-style homes for their character and history, but I also love the cool and calm interiors of a coastal space,” Caroline says. “I like mixing and matching the old with the new, playing with colours and textures. At Sunday Linen we are inspired to create unique designs that are functional and beautiful. We take our time to design each collection and ensure all of our pieces are timeless so you can enjoy them even as trends change.
“Our bespoke linen quilts have been made to elevate your home and bring a sense of comfort to your surroundings. We have designed our quilts to be loved and used throughout the family and hope they will be cherished for years to come.”
The idea for the linen quilts came when Caroline had a quilt made for her son by a Mornington maker and wanted one for herself. “I have always loved beautiful
bedding and homewares. I wanted to create unique pieces and colour combinations that complemented my home and created that cosy, safe feeling.
“Most of our linen quilts are fully reversible and we experiment with contrasting colours and patterns to create a modern twist on a classic bedding item. We mix and match our pillowcases with our quilts to show that there are multiple ways to style your bed. Our pieces are suited to any type of home interior: country, modern coastal, barn and so on.”
Go online and be amazed.
SUNDAY LINEN
W: www.sundaylinen.com.au
E: hello@sundaylinen.com.au
FB: Sunday Linen
INSTA: sundaylinen_
Aleshia-Ann Fowler was just 22 when she established Saya Medispa in 2013. Saya quickly outgrew its original small home, so Aleshia bought the current property in her home town of Somerville and built her dream medispa, creating a space for her clients to come and relax and feel as though they have drifted off to a beautiful tropical destination.
When she first opened her doors, Aleshia was told her business would fail. Determined to prove her doubters wrong, she set about growing Saya to offer a range of beauty, skin and relaxation treatments in a stunning location – and now she’s preparing to celebrate 10 years in business next month.
“We are creating a destination place, bringing more people to our amazing town,” Aleshia says. “We also recently opened a new couples’ treatment room.”
Aleshia has always been passionate about the beauty industry, beginning her studies at Elly Lukas when she was 15. She is an industry leader and regularly inspires new graduates at Elly Lukas with spa tours, words of wisdom, guidance and support, attending end-of-year graduations
and industry gala events as a guest speaker. Now a mother to daughter Anastasia, Aleshia is also happily juggling mum life and running a successful business with pride.
Saya Medispa offers an extensive range of beauty and relaxation treatments for men and women, and now couples. Their highly trained team of therapists use quality products and modern techniques to create the best possible experience for every Saya client.
This is a stunning salon where the focus is firmly on each client’s individual and specific needs. It’s a place where clients experience complete relaxation and serenity while receiving high-quality treatments from Aleshia and her team.
You will be pampered from head to toe at this state-of-the-art medispa. The Saya team are experienced and knowledgeable and work hard to ensure every treatment achieves the desired outcome.
Come in soon for a delightfully relaxing treatment.
SAYA MEDISPA
A: 70 Station St, Somerville
T: 5977 6790
W: www.sayamedispa.com.au
FB: sayamedispa
INSTA: sayamedispa
Having worked in the digital space for more than 10 years, Merrin Munroe has seen a lot of trends come and go – and the biggest marketing trend of 2023 is video. Merrin believes creating video marketing on any budget is possible and even recommends using your smartphone to create the majority of your business videos. Having worked in the broadcast TV industry for more than 25 years, she knows the tips and tricks to make professional videos from your phone.
Video content not only helps you become more visible online, it also allows you to control how people perceive you and your business by showcasing your style, personality and expertise. Making videos rather than just using still images will ensure that potential customers get to experience the real you.
Merrin offers workshops and online courses for business owners who might be scared or not confident of being on camera, need some help getting started, or want to make their smartphone videos look more professional. By taking advantage of her skillset, small business owners can now get help from someone who understands their struggles when it comes to creating quality video content as well as maintaining high production values.
Outside digital marketing, Merrin is a volunteer with the Flinders Lions and the Main Ridge CFA. She is also the president of Peninsula Business Networking and sits on the committee for the Toorak College Collegians.
MERRIN MUNROE
A: 1/31 Henry Wilson Drive, Capel Sound
T: 0409 821 685
W: www.merrinmunroe.com.au
FB: merrinmunroedigital
INSTA: merrinmunroedigital
The desire to create a safe space for Peninsula women led to the opening of Pole & Aerial Divas in Mornington in 2006. Since then we have had many women come through our doors and achieve things they never thought possible. It may have been a physical or mental achievement, but for the most part it was finding an outlet or activity that is just for them – their time out or their hobby. When I opened up my studio as a young 23-year-old women, I never ever thought that I would change so many lives or know what an impact the studio would have on so many people. I knew I wanted people to feel free from judgment when they came in, but I didn’t expect them to feel so much more than just that and I most certainly did not think that I would still be here nearly 16 years on. I am proud to be a successful woman in business who supports the success of every
woman who comes into our magical space.
Over the years we have developed our mission statement that fits us perfectly: “At Pole & Aerial Divas our mission is to create the ultimate happy place for women – a safe, supportive environment that not only improves your fitness but your overall well-being too. We pride ourselves on our strong female culture and sisterhood community. Divas is a place to embrace your body, develop self-love, make friends and feel empowered through pole, dance and aerial movement.”
DAVINA CURRIE
POLE & AERIAL DIVAS
A: 7/4 Torca Tce, Mornington
T: 5976 2978
E: mornington@poledivas.com.au
W: www.poledivas.com.au/studio/ mornington
FB: poledivas.mornington INSTA: pole.divas
Improving fitness and well-being in a supportive environment
Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats is a small boutique building company run by father and daughter team John and Farah Drake. Focusing on the needs of their clients and providing the personal touch, John and Farah offer a tailor-made service that ensures you get just what you need and that your new home or granny flat is built with care and precision. The company started in 1967 constructing large family homes, and has since pivoted almost 30 years ago to specialise in granny flats and relocatable homes after realising there was a gap in the market for quality-built granny flats. They are an ideal option for extended families who want to live together – as Farah says: “We are all about family and keeping them close” – as well as for clients who just need a little extra space perhaps for an art room or home office in the backyard.
Farah is a registered domestic builder who started out running the office and display centre while she was completing university. She quickly realised building was also her passion and went on to complete her Diploma of Building and obtain her full builder’s licence. “One of my greatest enjoyments is being able to take the time to sit down and get to know my clients and bring their dream granny flat to life,” she says.
An unwavering commitment to providing customers with a wide range of options and personalised service has made Willow Grove Homes & Granny Flats a leader in its field. The company provides a variety of sizes and designs to choose from, which means you can find just the right one to suit your needs. With a range of homes from 34 square metres (3.7 squares) to 99 square metres (10.6 squares), there’s something for any living situation. The range of modern designs includes open-plan living and kitchen areas, and either one, two or three bedrooms.
If you’re thinking of retiring and want to downsize, or perhaps you need some extra support and want to be closer to your family, give the team at Willow Grove a call and discuss your needs and the options available. You can also visit their display village in Dandenong South.
WILLOW GROVE HOMES & GRANNY FLATS
A: 2 Waterview Close, Dandenong South
T: 9799 8500
M: 0409 631 545
W: willowgrovegrannyflats.com.au
The 2023 theme for International Women’s Day is Equity. Equity – it does look and sound very similar to Equality, the theme for 2022, doesn’t it? The implication, however, is significantly different.
From very humble beginnings, Melinda Ryan of Town Planning & Co. has smashed ceilings to secure her reputation as a lead town planning consultant in Victoria, and more specifically the Mornington Peninsula.
“To me, equity means having just as much opportunity to be heard and to succeed as anyone else,” Melinda says. “(It’s) having access to the highest quality education, resources, and mentors, regardless of your circumstances.”
Melinda is a champion for better outcomes and more transparency within the development industry. Having earned her seat as a committee member of the Victorian Environment, Planning & Development Committee for the Housing Industry of Australia, Melinda seeks a more equitable approach to development within her industry –cutting red tape where the opportunity exists while respecting and prioritising environmental sustainability.
As well as leading numerous projects for private developer clients, critical infrastructure clients, non-government schools, and the government, including leisure and aquatic centres, Melinda and her team are leaders in the space
of Community Care Accommodation applications, working tirelessly for participants waiting for immediate accommodation through the NDIS program.
As an equity-focused leader in business and indeed life, Melinda empowers her team at Town Planning & Co. to question everything, prioritise purpose and integrity above all else, seek the voice and opinion of others, including those traditionally underrepresented, and to celebrate each ‘win’ with a positive giving impact.
Through an alignment with internationally renowned B1G1 – Business for Good and Health in Harmony – as well as being an active partner and champion of the Mornington Football Netball Club and Mornington Yacht Club, Melinda and her team understand the value of, and are committed to, positive impacts and ensuring equity locally and globally.
Town Planning & Co. is also a sponsor and champion of local charity Mums Supporting Families in Need (MSFIN). The team at MSFIN represents equity. If you are yet to learn what this incredible charity does and the impact they have in our community, please get behind them at msfin.org.au
TOWN PLANNING & CO.
A: 63C Barkly St, Mornington
T: 8765 2455
W: www.townplanningco.com.au
FB: townplanningco
INSTA: townplanningco
Combining elements of both art and science, designing smiles is creative and very satisfying. That’s why Maggie from DenturePoint loves her job.
Denture technology has come a long way over the years and dentures can now be a positive part of your appearance. At DenturePoint, Maggie explores all the different options to find products that will make even the most fussy customer happy.
“Two years ago I started offering flexible dentures,” Maggie says. “It’s an American product by the brand name of Valplast, which is made of nylon and due to its nature can be designed so thin that it becomes invisible. I often have patients who are waiting on implants. After getting one of the Valplast dentures, they like the idea so much that it almost comes as a surprise.”
Flexible dentures work really well in small spaces where only one tooth is missing. “There is a misconception that people think that if they only have one back tooth missing, no one will ever know and not much harm will come of it. As a matter of fact, missing one tooth could be the beginning of a complete disaster and may lead to other teeth migrating and moving around trying to close the gap, which eventually always ends up in the loss of more teeth. One-tooth flexible dentures work really well as space maintainers in such situations.”
If you would like to know more, call today for your appointment and have a chat with Maggie at DenturePoint.
DENTUREPOINT
A: 2/20 Bruce St, Mornington
T: 0400 919 513
W: www.denturepoint.com.au
FB: denturepoint
INSTA: denturepoint
Established in 2004, Vision Finance is an award-winning bespoke mortgage broking team proudly headed by Director Katrina Lagos. With almost 70 per cent of people choosing to engage a mortgage broker to assist them with navigating the complex number of loan options, Vision Finance has grown from strength to strength. From first-home buyers to astute investors, the team offers clients tailored advice, ensuring they achieve the most suitable and competitive loan approval for their circumstances.
In an industry in which women are only represented at 27 per cent – including support staff – the Vision Finance team defies the odds. With 11 of her 12 team members being women, Kat strongly advocates the important role that women play. “Our business is based on building strong relationships with our clients,” Kat says. “Delivering an exceptional customer
experience is paramount; couple this with strategic advice and years of experience and you have a winning formula for women to be at the forefront of this industry.”
In these uncertain economic times, supporting clients to navigate the tide of interest rate increases has been a strong focus for the team. Regular home loan health checks and negotiating with lenders to ensure Vision clients have the lowest rates available to them helps their clients constrain the rising cost of living.
On this International Women’s Day, the Vision team will be celebrating all the inspirational women in their lives and remembering those women who struggle with discrimination and financial and physical abuse every day.
A: 3/84 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza
T: 1300 363 677
W: www.visionfinance.com.au
E: clientconcierge@visionfinance.com.au
How would you like to join a club that not only helps its community but also champions live music by hosting some of the country’s top bands and musicians? Well, look no further than the Sorrento-Portsea RSL.
After 12 years of hard work by volunteers, the Sorrento-Portsea RSL has completed the construction of a new outdoor undercover entertainment area along with a billiard room and has revived the hugely popular Tom Katz. During the 1970s, this live music and dance venue would attract thousands of beachloving teens during the holidays, with crowds lining up to see the likes of AC/DC, The Vibrants, and Max Merritt.
Today, Tom Katz draws big-name performers of the calibre of Russell Morris and Normie Rowe, and it also hosts popular dance bands every Sunday from 4-7pm.
As a not-for-profit club, the SorrentoPortsea RSL plays a major role in the community and is a strong supporter and driver of fundraising appeals for droughts, bushfires and floods. The volunteerrun club also sells Remembrance Day poppies and Anzac Day badges to raise money for veterans.
So why not be part of this club’s bright
future and take advantage of the many activities on offer as well as supporting live music. Call the club today and ask about becoming a member.
SORRENTO-PORTSEA RSL/TOM KATZ
A: 1 Hurley St, Sorrento.
T: 5984 2886
W: www.tomkatz.com.au
FB: tomkatzlive
Described as “a tapestry of immersive wellness experiences, deep conversations, open panels and inspired music”, Awaken is a festival celebrating wellness, music, art, culture and community on Sunday, March 26, at Peninsula Hot Springs. Guests will be able to practise yoga with world-famous teachers, explore ideas in thought-provoking workshops, experience a diverse range of thermal bathing and wellness practices, and enjoy a full program of live music. The festival will include a wellness dome village, a massage zone, sound healings, workshops, scenic camping close by, and hot springs bathing.
Wellness sessions will be held by yoga teacher Shiva Rea and bestselling author and stem cell biologist Dr Bruce Lipton – both from the US – as well as Australians Dr Marc Cohen, William Wong, Jem Stone from Wayapa Wellness, Uma Spender, Simone Callahan, Maggie Carr and Sonja Kyra-Bleau. There will be live music from Garrett Kato, Kyle Lionheart, Mama Kin Spender and the Macapella Choir, and Edo Khan.
“Many of us feel deeply the urgent need for a positive change for humanity and the planet,” said Peninsula
Hot Springs co-owner Bharat Mitra. “Awaken recognises that a meaningful change will not come to us but will happen through us when we are awake to our pure nature. Awaken is an invitation for all of us to co-create an event to inspire and empower wellness communities to emerge. Awaken is a unifying field for people who care; for visionaries and wellness leaders from all walks of life to connect, nurture each other, explore, and co-create inspirations and holistic solutions for the huge challenges we face collectively. A tapestry of immersive wellness experiences, deep conversations, open panels and inspired music, Awaken is a celebration of the global wellness movement. Everyone is welcome, as we are all needed. We all have a unique and important role to play.”
“Peninsula Hot Springs makes the ideal backdrop for a gathering such as this because what we’ve created is essentially a wellness oasis,” said Peninsula Hot Springs co-founder and group chairman Charles Davidson. “For the better part of two decades, Peninsula Hot Springs has championed innovative wellness experiences. This is now culminating in Awaken — our most immersive experience yet.”
Angela Cleland said it was “extremely exciting” for the Peninsula to host Awaken. “As one of the region’s leading wellness destinations, Peninsula Hot Springs represents the ideal setting for this event and its impressive line-up of experiences. We commend the extensive efforts of the Peninsula Hot Springs and Awaken teams in establishing and organising such a vibrant day.”
Tickets for Awaken are available from www.awaken. net.au; they cost $110 for the arts, culture and wellness events or $180 for a more immersive experience that includes bathing.
Celebrating its 13th year, the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Easter Art Show returns next month with a wonderful selection of works by artists from the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas and Melbourne. The show, supported by Belle Property in Blairgowrie, raises money for the BYS rescue boat fleet, which is used to support junior, community and disabled sailing programs.
Feature artists this year are sculptor Cameron Moorhouse and artists Dawn Clavin and Angela Anderson, who will be joined by returning and new artists including indoor and outdoor sculptors. Prizes will be awarded in a variety
of categories, including the coveted People’s Choice award.
The art can be viewed on opening night from 7pm on Friday, April 7 – book at https://www.trybooking.com/
CFYGY – as well as on April 8-9 from 10am-5pm and April 10 from 10am-2pm. Tickets for these days are available at the door for $5. Visitors are welcome to stay on at the yacht club and enjoy the bistro and deck.
The Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron is at 2900 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie. Phone 5925 9600 or visit Facebook @ byseasterartshow/ or Instagram @bys.easterartshow for more information.
There’s even more reason to head to this year’s Red Hill Show on Saturday, March 11. “Thanks to a grant from Agriculture Victoria, kids 14 and under are free this year and all kids classes are free to enter,” says the show’s executive officer, Bec Davis. “The Peninsula continues to produce amazingly high-quality fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy,” Bec says. “Apple harvest is in full swing, which is why we have an apple pie competition with a $500 prize donated by local families.”
The hugely popular Mornington Peninsula Producers Paddock sells local honey, produce, beer, cider, and wine while live judging of specialty items is held on stage. The woodchop has entertained crowds for 50 years, and there is always keen interest in the judging of the fruitcake section by the CWA.
The Golden Sausage Award will be judged this year with assistance from Paul Mercurio, with $500 up for grabs thanks
to Melbourne master butcher Peter Bouchier. Join 3MP at the Horticultural Hangout and Environmental Zone, with talks about all things growing, gardening, and farming and new environmental exhibits.
Add to this livestock and horticultural exhibits, the cooking competition, art and photography, and you have a wonderful day out for the whole family.
RED HILL SHOW
A: Red Hill Recreation Reserve, Arthurs
Seat Rd, Red Hill
T: 5989 2357
W: www.redhillshow.com.au
FB: RedHillShowAu
INSTA: redhillshow
Saturday 11 March, 2023
Victim, by Robin Summons, has been named Best Short Film at the 12th Peninsula Film Festival, taking top honours from Riley Sugars’ Hatchback and Charlotte George’s Assets.
Miriam Glaser picked up Best Actor for her role in Assets, Best Cinematography went to Carl Allison for Hairsucker, Timothy Brown and Michael Portway won Best Documentary for Sanctuary, Best Animation was won by Mark Bernard for New Life, and Amie Zwag took home the Woodleigh School Emerging Filmmaker Award for Gen Z.
More than 1000 people turned out for the three-day festival, which opened on February 3 with the screening of Poker Face, directed by and starring Russell Crowe and featuring festival director Steve Bastoni and festival judge Dan
MacPherson. The next night, film buffs were treated to 20 short films under the stars at Rosebud’s Village Green, with the 12 finalists competing for $30,000 in cash and prizes. The entries were judged by some of Australia’s finest film and television talent, including actors Dan MacPherson, Lachy Hulme, Michala Banas, Chrissie Swan, Georgina Haig and highly acclaimed screenwriter Shaun Grant. A filmmaking workshop was also held over the weekend, providing expert advice on making short films in a hands-on session with some of Australia’s leading filmmakers.
Festival patron and Golden Globewinning director Fred Schepisi praised this year’s entries, saying: “It was the best bunch of films we’ve seen yet.” Steve Bastoni said: “We are thrilled to have showcased another incredible Peninsula Film Festival, which welcomed over a thousand locals and visitors to be part of this special three-day festival.”
A social calendar highlight promising to be bigger and better than ever, The Peninsula Picnic presents the ideal Saturday afternoon uncovering some of the area’s most favoured and beloved producers, growers and gourmet store owners as a selection of Australia’s leading live music acts serenade.
Headlined by Aussie music royalty The Temper Trap, the music line-up will also be bolstered by acclaimed multi-ARIA-winning acoustic troubadour Josh Pyke, folkesque indie-powerhouse Tia Gostelow, Queen Of Hearts Mariachi Band, and up-and-coming songwriter Tahls.
Spotlighting the finest fare from Main St in Mornington to Red Hill, Sorrento to Fingal, the sea-salted surrounds of Mornington Racecourse will welcome authentic southern barbecue from Red Gum BBQ, three of DOC Mornington’s most swoonworthy pizzas, Alatonero’s satisfying
souvlakis, and seafood delights from The Rocks Mornington.
A selection of the region’s most acclaimed wineries, including Montalto and Paringa Estate, is sure to please curious connoisseurs. For those seeking more satiating spirits, JimmyRum and Bass & Flinders Distillery will be on site for tastings, in addition to St Andrews Beach Brewery serving crisp pours.
Kids’ arts and crafts, lawn games, and a range of interactive entertainment will also be on offer to spread the fun and excitement right across the grounds.
The pinnacle of Peninsula food, wine and music gatherings, The Peninsula Picnic invites eventgoers to get friends and family together and pack their best picnic rug to head to Mornington for a day of gourmet play.
The Peninsula Picnic is on Saturday, March 25. Visit www.peninsulapicnic.com.au for tickets.
A delightfully amusing and poignant play about the nature of marriage, the pursuit of happiness and the perfect foxtrot comes to Frankston Arts Centre this month as part of a national tour.
Wallflowering is a beautiful Australian story directed by award-winning Denny Lawrence, and starring acclaimed actors of both stage and television, Dennis Coard and Jenny Seedsman.
The play revolves around the lives of Peg and Cliff Small, an ordinary, suburban, middle-aged couple who were once prize-winning ballroom dancers. While Cliff now has dreams of becoming a writer but can get no further than writing lists of clever book titles, Peg on the other hand is no longer content to quietly and unquestioningly follow her husband. She wants to lead, and sees the possibilities and excitement in change. These changes cause them to be out of step with
each other and threaten their marriage.
It was written in 1988 by award-winning playwright Peta Murray, who muses: “This play was my genuine attempt to understand the paradoxes of that time. There is both courage and beauty in the individual who dares to live his or her truth, no matter how ‘ordinary’ it might be. Wallflowering, it is my hope, honours the Cliff and Peg in all of us.”
Wallflowering will be performed at Frankston Arts Centre on Sunday, March 26, at 7.30pm as part of the 2023 Season. Tickets are available at thefac.com.au or on 9784 1060.
A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston
T: 9784 1060
W: www.thefac.com.au
FB: FrankstonArtsCentre
INSTA: the_fac
This exquisite piece of seashell art by Australian artist Miffy Pittaway is available to view and buy for $980 through her website and online shop at sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites.com
All of Miffy’s seashell stunners are created using 40-year-old seashells collected from our magnificent Victorian beaches. The shells come from non-critically endangered, nonthreatened and non-exotic species, and none contained live marine creatures when they were collected.
Miffy offers free delivery in Mount Martha and across the Mornington Peninsula, and she is more than happy to send her art to the rest of Melbourne, Victoria and Australia for the required postage, handling and shipping charges.
She Shell Art wants everyone to create his or her own place by the seaside regardless of your postal address. The ocean is the genesis of the She Shell Art brand – She Shell Art lives for the sound of the ocean and of the waves crashing on the shoreline, and representing four-decades-old deceased Victorian seashells, beach, coastal and nautical finds into creating her artworks.
SHE SHELL ART
M: 0400 178 635
E: sheshellart@gmail.com
W: www.sheshellartbymiffy.com
W: sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites.com
FB: Miffyshells
INSTA: sheshellartbymiffy
With her powerhouse vocals and high energy, Toni Childs’ one-nightonly show in Frankston is set to be a live music highlight of 2023 at Frankston Arts Centre. “It will be a two-hour musical feast,” Toni says.
The Emmy-winning and Grammynominated artist’s international hits such as Don’t Walk Away, Stop Your Fussin’, Walk and Talk Like Angels, Zimbabwe, Where’s the Ocean, Many Rivers to Cross, I’ve Got to Go Now and Because You’re Beautiful are loved by fans in more than 50 countries.
“In this musical feast we have dessert first, which is all the faves in the first hour, then in the second hour I play music from three productions that are rolling out this decade: It’s All A Beautiful Noise, Reef 360, and Citizens of the Planet.”
Since releasing her hit album Union in 1988, music remains Toni’s great love, but there’s a much bigger story that has evolved, in part due to the state
of the world environmentally but also due to her Graves’ disease diagnosis – a hyperthyroid disorder – in 1997. “I stopped everything; it was huge. I found out all the things I was allergic to. I had a toxic overload. It changed everything. It sent me on a deep dive looking at all the ways we are ignorant of what our bodies are actually absorbing. This has informed everything I’m doing now.”
After healing herself from Graves’ disease and learning what she did about toxic overload, she made the same link to what’s happening in the environment. “I feel like we’re doing this with the bees and the ocean. I want to create music and productions that are playful and inspiring but also highlight some things people don’t really know, starting with the bees. If we work together collectively, we can make a bee-friendly world.”
Toni was born in the US but since 2012 Byron Bay has been home. Last year
Toni became an Australian citizen and couldn’t be happier. “It happened last year. They sent me an email, of all things; I was expecting I’d get a letter. I avoided opening it for a few days. When I did, I burst into tears. It’s been a big process.”
For serious fans, Toni is offering an exclusive VIP meet and greet package. This is your chance to sit in the front row, receive a digital copy of Toni Childs Greatest Hits two-CD set and a drink backstage before the concert with Toni. There are 15 VIP tickets available at $175 each.
Toni Childs’ Retrospective Concert is at Frankston Arts Centre on Friday, March 31. For tickets, go to www.artscentre. frankston.vic.gov.au
Visit Toni’s website at www.tonichilds.com to learn more about her current work.
NIKKI FISHERSATURDAY MARCH 4
International Women’s Day Festival
featuring Miss Emilia, Carissa Nyalu, Lily Clancy, The Sponties, Glitter Gypsies, Maloga Art and more supporting Breast Cancer Network Australia; The Pig and Whistle, 365 Purves Rd, Main Ridge; general entry $15; info at www.thepigandwhistle.com.au/iwdfestivalau
FRIDAY MARCH 24 –
SATURDAY MARCH 25
Great Aussie Hike
Cape Schanck to Moorooduc, embracing the great Aussie spirit of mates looking after each other; get fit, have fun and strengthen friendships; www.greataussiehike.com.au
FRIDAY MARCH 10
Soul Night Market
festive foodie and makers market, Dromana Estate, 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong, 5-9pm, www.unrivalledevents.com. au/soul-night-market-dromana-estate
SATURDAY MARCH 11
Red Hill Show book now for this hugely popular event, one of the best agricultural shows in Australia, where entertainment, exhibitions, demonstrations and animals are always top class; enter your produce or baked delights; details
www.redhillshow.com.
auSummer-Vibes-by-Spirited-Tribe
SATURDAY MARCH 25
The Peninsula Picnic Victoria’s most loved coastal celebration of top drops, mouthwatering produce and stunning musical talent; Mornington Racecourse, gates open 11.30am; tickets from $99, www.peninsulapicnic.com.au
SUNDAY MARCH 26
Awaken Festival join Australia’s first wellness gathering and connect with wellness inspirations and yoga with Shiva Rea, Dr Bruce Lipton and more; immerse in music with Mam Kin Spender (with the Macapella Choir) and many more; tickets limited; Awaken pass $110, Awaken pass plus bathing $180.
www.awaken.net.au
THURSDAY APRIL 6 –
MONDAY APRIL 10
Frankston Rotary Artshow
After a break of over 30 years, our glorious Art Show is returning. Stunning Gala Night on 6 April, remaining open until 10 April. Proceeds will be used to assist the Frankston Unit of the SES to purchase a new 4X4 vehicle. Seaford Community Centre, Station St, Seaford www.frankstonrotaryartshow.com.au
FRIDAY 7 - MONDAY APRIL 10
13th Easter Art Show
showcasing an incredible range of artistic works in a variety of media. Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron, 2900 Point Nepean Rd
www.bys.asn.au
SUNDAY APRIL 9
The Flinders Motoring Heritage
Display of classic, veteran, vintage and neo classic cars displayed around the village of Flinders. Entry is open to all vehicles regardless of condition and is open to original and restored vehicles. Entry fee is $30 per vehicle. All drivers and passengers are free. 10am-2pm; Cnr cook and Norman St, Flinders
www.flindersmotoringheritage.com.au
SATURDAY MARCH 18
SATURDAY MARCH 18
Food Yard Night Market
Food Yard Night Market
up to 12 different street food and drink trucks from around the world, free entry with onsite parking, great night out for family and friends; 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington, 5-8pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/food-yard
up to 12 different street food and drink trucks from around the world, free entry with onsite parking, great night out for family and friends; 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington, 5-8pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/food-yard
SATURDAY MARCH 18 & SUNDAY MARCH 19
SATURDAY MARCH 18 & SUNDAY MARCH 19
Talking Hens 4th Annual Family Fun Open Weekend
Talking Hens 4th Annual Family Fun Open Weekend
Free activities; face painting, petting zoo, pony rides, craft activities. Ice cream, coffee & snack stalls. 10am-4pm. 3590 Frankston Flinders Rd, Merricks, 0406 691 231, www.talkinghens.com.au
Free activities; face painting, petting zoo, pony rides, craft activities. Ice cream, coffee & snack stalls. 10am-4pm. 3590 Frankston Flinders Rd, Merricks, 0406 691 231, www.talkinghens.com.au
www.mpmag.com.au
www.mpmag.com.au
SUNDAY MARCH 19
SUNDAY MARCH 19
My Mount Eliza Run + Fun Festival
My Mount Eliza Run + Fun Festival
4km, 8km & 12km trail run/ walk, all-paws walk, kids’ activities all day, live music, silent auction and much more; register at www.mymounteliza.org.au
4km, 8km & 12km trail run/ walk, all-paws walk, kids’ activities all day, live music, silent auction and much more; register at www.mymounteliza.org.au
FRIDAY MARCH 31
FRIDAY MARCH 31
Peninsula Songriders
Peninsula Songriders
Summer Sunset Sessions presenting Michael Spiby (The Badloves) Tickets from $30, 6-9pm, Western Port Yacht Club, 1 Foreshore Rd, Balnarring Beach. www.facebook.com/peninsulasongriders
Summer Sunset Sessions presenting Michael Spiby (The Badloves) Tickets from $30, 6-9pm, Western Port Yacht Club, 1 Foreshore Rd, Balnarring Beach. www.facebook.com/peninsulasongriders
FRIDAY MARCH 31
FRIDAY MARCH 31
Toni Childs Retrospective Concert
Toni Childs Retrospective Concert
Join Emmy Winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist
Toni Childs for a special two-hour performance as she celebrates her life’s musical works. Toni will be performing hits and fan favourites. Tickets from $64. Frankston Arts Centre; 9784 1060
www.thefac.com.au
Join Emmy Winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist Toni Childs for a special two-hour performance as she celebrates her life’s musical works. Toni will be performing hits and fan favourites. Tickets from $64. Frankston Arts Centre; 9784 1060 www.thefac.com.au
SATURDAY APRIL 15 & SUNDAY APRIL 16
SATURDAY APRIL 15 & SUNDAY APRIL 16
Mornington Lions Annual Charity Book Fair
Mornington Lions Annual Charity Book Fair
Spend Less – Read more! All Books $2, specialist Books POA. Gold Coin Entry. 9am-5pm each day. The Studio, Cnr Wilsons Rd & Nepean Hwy, Mornington.
Spend Less – Read more! All Books $2, specialist Books POA. Gold Coin Entry. 9am-5pm each day. The Studio, Cnr Wilsons Rd & Nepean Hwy, Mornington.
THURSDAY APRIL 27SUNDAY APRIL 30
THURSDAY APRIL 27SUNDAY APRIL 30
Sorrento Writers Festival
four-day festival uniting readers, writers and creatives through the written word; more than 45 emerging and established writers, journalists, commentators, playwrights, academics, illustrators and musicians will gather on the Peninsular, majority of events at Continental Sorrento; www.sorrentowritersfestival.com.au
Sorrento Writers Festival four-day festival uniting readers, writers and creatives through the written word; more than 45 emerging and established writers, journalists, commentators, playwrights, academics, illustrators and musicians will gather on the Peninsular, majority of events at Continental Sorrento; www.sorrentowritersfestival.com.au
SUNDAY APRIL 2
SUNDAY APRIL 2
Moorooduc Station Market
Moorooduc Station Market
460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc; 60-stall boutique handmade maker and street food market at historic Moorooduc station; great family day; 10am-2pm; www.unrivalledevents.com.au/ moorooduc-station-market
460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc; 60-stall boutique handmade maker and street food market at historic Moorooduc station; great family day; 10am-2pm; www.unrivalledevents.com.au/ moorooduc-station-market
Use
Use
www.mpmag.com.au
www.mpmag.com.au
On Thursday February 16 Frankston Business Collective held a Frankston Women in Business event at McClelland Gallery and Sculpture Park. With presenters Danielle Jacobs and Veronica Lees-Amato and 82 attendees it was a huge success. As one attendee explained, “A fabulous choice with both speakers! There were moments of laughter and tears as both took you through their own journey and words of wisdom. The room was packed full of highly engaged women.”
It can be daunting when it comes to moving into a retirement village. Village Advisors can help you navigate your options and provide advice and guidance throughout the process.
Our experience has revealed some key questions to consider:
What are you looking for? Community or care?
To live in a village, you must be capable of living independently. This is distinct from residential aged care. You may be able to access in-home care services that allow you to, for all practical purposes, continue to live independently in the village. You should satisfy yourself that the village meets your lifestyle and care requirements into the future.
What will it be like to live there?
What will make or break your experience are the people and the management. To get a feel for this, we recommend you attend village events and talk to residents about their experience.
Currently under Victorian legislation, non-owner residents are only entitled to a six-month ‘buyback’ if certain selling rights are not included in their contract. Despite the legislation, the village operator may offer a contractual buyback. Are there different contract options available?
The typical contract financial model is to pay an upfront ‘ingoing contribution’ for your right to reside, ongoing fees for services while you live there, and exit fees including a deferred management fee after you leave. You may or may not be entitled to capital gain. Be aware of different contract options available.
A: 1/14 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza
T: 1800 592 206
W: www.villageadvisors.com.au
Village Advisors is a specialist legal practice dedicated to helping residents and prospective residents of retirement villages.
Jessica Kinnear, our Principal Lawyer, is a trusted and personable solicitor with extensive experience in retirement villages, providing clients with unique insights.
Our services include:
• Expert legal advice on moving in – we provide advice on the contract, give tailored recommendations and coordinate settlement;
• Expert advice on moving out – we provide advice on your departure and selling entitlements and rights to aged care funding;
• Coordinating aged care funding from the village;
• Working together with your financial advisors and other consultants to provide a seamless service;
• Retirement village disputes.
Having just one person to champion a young person can make a huge difference in the young person’s life. A new mentoring program at Rosebud Secondary College aims to make that difference and to reconnect young people with their community. The program is called BEAM, which stands for Bringing Engagement And Meaning.
Program co-ordinator Bridget Verwey says BEAM was inspired by an established mentoring program called Standing Tall that has operated in four schools in Warrnambool for more than a decade. “I went to Warrnambool with our assistant principal Geoff Seletto to look at the program,” Bridget says. “It was so inspiring, we decided to give it a go.” Bridget taught at RSC for 25 years before retiring in 2019. “I came back
to Rosebud to tutor students who had fallen behind during COVID. I knew our students; I was shocked at the impact COVID had had and how much work we had to do. During COVID lockdowns, a lot of students lost confidence. It was very isolating, and some students are still isolated and connection with community has been lost. This mentoring program fitted in beautifully and I’d always wanted to do something with the school involving the community.”
With support from Rye/Rosebud Rotary, BEAM began last month with 12 volunteer mentors ranging in age from 21 to 83, and 12 students in Year 8. “We’ve involved students who go under the radar and who we know, if they had an extra adult in their life to vouch for them, it would be of great benefit.”
Training is provided for mentors after reference checks, completion of a
child safe module, and a working with children check. The program runs for an hour each Tuesday.
“We’re hoping it’s the best hour of their week. The whole aim is to build a good relationship with another adult in our community. That’s another support for them and you don’t know what opportunity will arise.”
Activities are directed by the students and range from cooking to playing table tennis and cards, or simply going for a walk and chatting.
Bridget’s aim is to grow the program to 20 mentors and 20 mentees by mid-year, and then eventually have 40 mentors and 40 mentees. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, email Bridget at beamcoordinator@rsc.vic. edu.au
Flinders Dental offers family-friendly, relaxed dental treatment to all areas of the community, young and old. The philosophy of our clinic is to offer honest, direct advice regarding the oral health and well-being of each patient.
Doctors Ron Rogers and Julia Gellatly, along with oral health therapist and practice owner Michelle Bursa, have 75 years of combined dental experience, each sharing a passion for all aspects of dental treatment.
Flinders Dental treats every patient as an individual, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique requirements based on thorough examination and consultation. Where necessary, the practitioners at Flinders Dental also work closely with a well-established team of local specialists to offer optimum treatment options to patients.
Living locally for decades, our staff members are heavily involved in local community, school and sporting clubs and enjoy the benefits of living among the community they have the pleasure of treating.
FLINDERS DENTAL
A: 3/33 Cook St, Flinders
T: 5989 1129
W: www.flindersdentalclinic.com.au
INSTA: flinders_dental
Running together for cancer care
of March and they told me I had about four weeks to get the cancer out.
What has your treatment entailed so far?
Before I had surgery, because I haven't had a baby yet I had to quickly freeze some eggs. I did that once and I got five eggs, which are in the bank. And then I did 16 rounds of chemo. And the first four were a different drug to the last 12. The first four were the really bad ones like you see on TV where you're vomiting and your hair falls out and you’re in a bad mood for months. That was awful. I’ve also had a double mastectomy and reconstruction. But during that process my partner Adam and I got a puppy. He’s a little frenchie named Harvey. He's currently throwing a ball at my feet every 10 seconds.
How do your friends and family support you?
A lot of my friends are nurses, so they get the 2am “Hey, can I take this tablet with this, or will that make me sicker?” phone calls. A lot of the practical advice has come in handy; having friends who say “Do you want a lift to
chemo? Do you want me to drop off McDonald's? Do you need a hand with the washing?” Even just walking the dog for me when I feel like crap and it's raining out or I just don't have the motivation to roll out of bed.
What advice would you give to others who've just been diagnosed?
The thing I did at the start is set boundaries. If I have information, I just tell Adam and my mum, and tell them who they're allowed to tell before it turns into a snowball effect where I’ve got 50 people calling to have the same conversation.
What resources have you found useful?
The BCNA have been amazing and they do a lot of the behind-thescenes things that I didn't even know about until a couple of months ago. They help with the medications I have to take – they get that on the PBS or highly subsidised so it's not as expensive – and things like the
Carman’s Fun Run, of course. A lot of my friends have used BCNA’s resources to learn more about breast cancer.
Tell us about your involvement with the Carman’s Fun Run.
It’s been good motivation for me to get my bum off the couch and do something every day. I had about 35 people in my team running with me or walking. I did the 5k walk
because I didn't want to push myself too much. Adam and his mates did the 10k run and there was also a half-marathon. My mum, who's 60, did the 10km, and a lot of my family and friends who I didn’t think would want to do group exercise with me trained for it. It's made me feel a bit special.
SARAH HALFPENNYEyeglasses are an opportunity to express your unique style and personality.
Owner Kay Tyrie and the team at Main Street Eyecare provide personalised service and will spend time to find the right fabulous new frames for you. Whether you want something that makes a statement or something chic and classic, there’s endless variety to choose from. “There’s no need to travel to the city to buy unique eyewear,” Kay says. “We have so many choices here.”
Current styles from British brand Kirk and Kirk are in store now and are exclusive to Main Street
Eyecare on the Peninsula. Made from Italian acrylic, Kirk and Kirk frames are lightweight and come in a wide range of vibrant colours.
Popular French brand Sabine Be continues to be well loved here. Known for their funky shapes and standout colours, Sabine Be is all about being individual.
Fashion aside, regular eye checks are so important in these times where we’re looking at screens more and more. Make an appointment today.
MAIN STREET EYECARE
A: Shop 7/68 Barkly St, Mornington (pop-up shop)
T: 5975 3235
FB: mainstreeteyecare3931 INSTA: mainstreeteyecare
At Sexual Health Options, Dr Anita Moss leads a specialised team who are passionate about providing informative and empowering sexual health services within a safe and nonjudgemental space to anyone, regardless of sex, age, ethnic origin and gender.
“We provide a comprehensive medical abortion service from Young Street Medical & Dental Centre, with no referrals needed to access the service,” Anita says. “We offer a ‘one-stop shop’ where people are assessed for suitability for medical abortion, and prescribed medication on the same day. Patients can book directly by calling the practice or through our website.”
Sexual Health Options also provides:
• Counselling around unintended pregnancy options
• Suitability assessment for medical abortion
• Ultrasound dating of pregnancy in clinic at first
appointment
• Client provided with abortion medication at appointment, if suitable
• Contraceptive consultations
• Onsite pathology and pharmacy
• Discreet STI screening and treatment
“Most services are also available via Telehealth, including medical abortion. We can conduct assessments over the phone and provide scripts or referrals directly to the patient for discreet care.”
Sexual Health Options is open Tuesday to Friday from 8am-5pm. Telehealth appointments can be arranged as needed during business hours. Phone bookings are available on Mondays between 10am2pm.
SEXUAL HEALTH OPTIONS
A: 89 Young St, Frankston
T: 8725 0172
W: www.sexualhealthoptions.com.au
Aries: You are a loyal friend, perhaps seeing your closest alliances as true comrades for the ups and downs of life. March sees these alliances come somewhat under siege. The planets are affecting both your individual friendships as well as your connections within a group or club.
Taurus: March sees you plan for changes in your professional life, or in your public persona if you are not working. If you are happy, then a powerful promotion may be in the stars. Or perhaps a happy occasion that elevates your role in your family or local association.
Gemini: It’s time to stop sweating the details and to see the big picture. March is about goal-setting rather than juggling daily chores, or hesitating. If possible, take time out, escape in nature, to the cinema or to a nearby art gallery and tap into your imagination.
by Stephanie JohnsonCancer: Other people and events may have been challenging in recent months, even years. March is the month in which you deal with the changes that have transformed your life. The planet of action, Mars, moves into your Zodiac Sign on March 25, giving you a boost.
Leo: Relationship politics is your theme for March onwards in 2023. From March 23 your focus changes from being king or queen of your own domain to your courtiers and how you can best serve them. In particular, your nearest and dearest is asking for you to step up.
Virgo: It’s time to look at your work/life balance. Daily habits influence behaviour and physical, emotional and mental health. As a logical Virgo you may think that you know the answers. But you need to listen to your heart. This is about how you relate at home and work on a daily basis.
Libra: Children spark up your life in March and beyond. You can gain extra energy from being surrounded by people younger than yourself. Their spontaneity can be infectious. Joy, spontaneity, romance and creativity are the themes this month. You need to tap into your creative side, learning from the young at heart.
Scorpio: Mars is your ruling planet. It is also the planet of action, resources, and of course the god of war. During March, the red planet is travelling the 8th House of your Solar chart. This is the House of change, which means your resources are tested as you navigate the cycles of life.
Sagittarius: March is your month of healing, creativity and fun, so you can take some time at the start of the month to focus on what ‘play’ means to you. The idea is that you can be lighthearted. Even if you have many responsibilities, you can delegate or enlist extra help.
Capricorn: March is a mopping-up exercise for domestic and mountain Capricorn goats. The transformative planet Pluto is moving out of your Zodiac Sign on March 23, bringing resolution to the changes of recent years. Now you can assimilate the life lessons and move forward with confidence.
Aquarius: Efforts that have been made in recent years come to fruition by the end of March. The planet of transformation, Pluto, enters your Zodiac Sign on March 23, so your own personal Age of Aquarius is about to start. Note your feelings and thoughts and use them to motivate changes.
Pisces: The planet Saturn enters your Sign on March 8 and heralds a personal renaissance for Pisces. A natural daydreamer, you may find yourself lost in thought even more this month. Use the power of your imagination to reinvent yourself in areas of your life that need to change.
Whatever your Future You, whatever you want to achieve in your health goals in 2023, PARC can help you get there. Let’s kick-start 2023 with a focus on your health and wellbeing.
We try to confirm all markets with organisers before publication, however, late changes can occur.
EVERY DAY
Dromana Indoor Market: over 80 indoor stalls to peruse, plus hairdresser, 110 Nepean Highway, Dromana (down from Aldi), 10am5pm
Flock of Seagulls: indoor market, art gallery and café, 2211 Point Nepean Road, Rye, 10am-4pm daily
Market 3196: a range of over 300 indoor stalls plus café, something for everyone. 279 Wells Rd, Chelsea Heights, 10am-5pm
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Main St, Mornington: 9am-3pm between Cromwell and Albert streets
EVERY THURSDAY
High St, Hastings: 9am-1pm, 40+ stalls, everything homemade, home-grown & crafted
Plaza Palooza: 9am-4pm, Langwarrin Plaza, Langwarrin
EVERY SUNDAY Bittern: 8am-1pm, 70+ stalls, Frankston-Flinders Rd, Bittern station Frankston: 8am-1pm, Sherlock & Hay carpark, Young St, Frankston
SATURDAY MARCH 4
Red Hill Community Market: 8am-2pm, Red Hill Recreation Reserve
Rye Rotary Foreshore Market: 7am-12noon, Pt Nepean Rd, Rye near the pier
SUNDAY MARCH 5
Boneo Lions Club Sunday Market: First Sunday of every month, 7am-1pm. Rosebud foreshore opposite Fourth Ave, something for everything
FRIDAY MARCH 10
Soul Night Market: a festive, foodie and makers market, Dromana Estate, 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong, 5-9pm, www. unrivalledevents.com.au/soul-night-market-dromana-estate
SATURDAY MARCH 11
Crib Point Community Market: second Saturday of month, indoor & outdoor stalls. Cribby Koala Treasure Hunt for kids. 9am-1pm, Crib Point Community House, 7 Park Rd, Crib Point Point Nepean Portsea Market: Portsea Quarantine Station, Point Nepean National Park, 9am-2pm
Rosebud Community School: second Saturday of month, Nepean Hwy, the old carnival site on Rosebud Foreshore (opp 7-Eleven), 8am1pm, 120+ stalls, handmade and new items, produce and plants
For FREE inclusion online and in print, please email market details to publishing@mpmag.com.au by the 15th of each month.
SATURDAY MARCH 18
Boneo Community Market: third Saturday of the month, 8am-noon; cnr Boneo and Limestone roads
Emu Plains Market: Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring Racecourse, Balnarring, 9am-2pm www.emuplainsmarket.com.au
Food Yard Night Market: featuring up to 12 different street food and drink trucks from around the world, free entry with onsite parking, a great night out for family and friends. 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington, 5-8pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/food-yard
Pearcedale Market: third Saturday of month, 8am-noon, 710 BaxterTooradin Rd, Pearcedale
SUNDAY MARCH 19
Mornington Racecourse Craft Market: Racecourse Rd, 3-8pm; 300+ stalls with animal farm & face-painting for the kids
Seaford Farmers Market: fresh food market includes fruit and vegetables, meats, breads, pastas, cakes, jams and conserves, soaps, flowers, plants and much more, 8am-1pm; Broughton St Reserve, $2 donation per adult
Shoreham Community Market: third Sunday of the month, hand grown, made and gathered and music, 10am-2pm, corner of Byrnes and Cliff Rd
SATURDAY MARCH 25
Dromana Community Market: Dromana Community Park, Point Nepean Rd, Dromana; 8am-1.30pm; family-friendly experience with fresh and seasonal produce and locally crafted products Little Beauty Market: Beauty Park, High St, Frankston, Special twilight market. 3-8pm, www.littlebeautymarket.com.au
Tootgarook Primary School Market: fourth Saturday of month, handmade arts and crafts, local and fresh produce, gourmet foods, plants, bric-a-brac, clothing and much more, Carmichael St, Tootgarook, 8am-12noon.
SUNDAY MARCH 26
Moorooduc Station Market: 460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc; 60-stall boutique handmade maker and street food market at historic Moorooduc station; great family day; 10am-2pm; www. unrivalledevents.com.au/moorooduc-station-market
Mount Martha Briars Market: 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha, 9am-2pm
Mt Eliza Farmers’: fourth Sunday of month, Mount Eliza Village Green, 9am-1pm
Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, fresh food market springing to life on the fourth Sunday of every month. Celebrating our growers and makers, the market is in its 13th year and continues to bring the freshest produce and handmade goods to the community.
From farm-fresh herbs, seasonal fruit and veg to beautiful fresh eggs, jams, sauces, sausages, nuts, honey . . . the list goes on. Then there’s the ready-to-eat hot food such as freshly baked scones, homemade dim sims, bacon and egg rolls, doughnuts, fresh gourmet
The Napolitano family have been egg farmers at Moorooduc since 1979. They pride themselves on offering the freshest and healthiest eggs.
The chickens at Somerville Egg Farm are hormone and antibiotic-free. Their eggs are collected daily so you can be confident you’re buying delicious fresh eggs. There’s a variety of sizes and price ranges to suit all needs and budgets, and duck eggs are also available. When their emus lay in winter, their ‘eggnormous’ eggs are always a favourite.
If you’re planning to do some Easter baking, farm-fresh eggs are a vital ingredient. Visit the farmgate and stock up, and you’ll see happy chickens roaming in the paddocks. “We like supporting local, and in our shop we also stock locally grown potatoes and flowers,” says farmgate manager Linda. “We also like to stock products from local producers such as honey, pasta sauces and pasta made from our eggs.”
Somerville Egg Farm is open Monday to Friday from 8am4.30pm and Saturdays 8am-12.30pm; it’s closed Sundays and public holidays.
SOMERVILLE EGG FARM
A: cnr Eramosa Road West and Binnak Way, Moorooduc
P: 5977 5405
FB: SomervilleEggFarm
INSTA: somervilleeggfarm
pies, and Turkish treats.
Our farmers and makers have a wealth of knowledge to share, so come and chat to them about their produce. We are proudly supported each month by Mount Eliza’s wonderful Rotary and Lions clubs, whose mouthwatering bacon and egg rolls raise money for those in in need.
Come and discover the wonderful vibrancy of Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market.
MOUNT ELIZA FARMERS’ MARKET
T: 0419 907 504
W: www.mtelizafarmersmarket.com.au
Nestled within the bustling Seawinds Community Hub lies a cafe that exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The recent reopening of this much-loved cafe proves it’s more than just a spot to grab a quick bite; it's a vital place for students, teachers and locals to come together to learn, relax and recharge. With its carefully crafted menu prepared on the premises by a qualified chef and its skilled barista, the cafe is a testament to the passion and expertise that defines this popular Rosebud not-for-profit organisation.
It's the perfect meeting spot before and after classes, fostering a sense of camaraderie among visitors. Whether you're in need of a quick caffeine fix, a study spot, or a gathering place for friends, the cafe caters to everyone’s needs.
On offer is a diverse range of food, including hot and cold breakfast options, freshly made sandwiches, main meals such as pasta bolognese and chicken pilaf, soups and salads, as well as muffins, scones, biscuits, and housemade cakes. To drink there’s coffee, tea, milkshakes, smoothies, juices and soft drinks, and everything is at community prices. Enjoy them while relaxing in the café, out in the courtyard or have them to go.
There are also plenty of specials, including Mums and Bubs (hot beverage, babycino and cake), Students (small
milkshake and hot jam doughnut) and Friday Chill Sessions, where from 5-8pm you can indulge in a grazing board for two or a wood-fired pizza and glass of wine/ beer while listening to live music.
With its welcoming vibes, delicious food and drinks, and strong ties to the Rosebud community, it's easy to see why it's a beloved spot to rendezvous for residents and visitors alike. Make a time to stop by and see what all the fuss is about.
The Seawinds Community Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am-4.30pm; it’s closed Wednesdays. For more information, visit www.seawindscommunityhub. com.au/community-cafe
SARAH HALFPENNY
PREP: 5 minutes
COOK TIME: 15 minutes
SERVES: 4
This is a really tasty mild dish full of healthy ingredients and lovely flavours. The chicken is delicious in a sandwich, a wrap, or on a fresh and vibrant salad. The longer you marinate the chicken in the sauce, the better, but if you are using chicken thighs and making the dish in the oven, you can help build up that flavour by basting with the pan juices. If you don’t have skewers, grill the chicken directly on the baking tray.
INGREDIENTS:
For the chicken
1 pack of The Spice Tailor Original Tikka Masala
500g chicken thighs or breast fillets, cut into large, bitesize pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tsp lemon juice
1 good tsp garlic paste, about 2 large cloves
1 tsp ginger paste
2 tbsp plain thick yoghurt
In March, one lucky winner will WIN a pack from The Spice Tailor, total RRP of $210.
Includes:
2 x Butter Chicken Paste
2 x Dehli Biryani
2 x Malabar Biryani
2 x Punjabi Chickpea Masala
2 x Spicy Tarka Lentil Daal
2 x Classic Lentil Tarka Daal
2 x Bangali Coconut Lentil Daal
2 x Hyderabad Biryani
2 x Thai Red Curry
2 x Thai Green Curry
2 x Thai Massaman Curry
2 x Rustic Rogan Josh
2 x Classic Butter Chicken
2 x Fiery Goan Curry
2 x Original Tikka Masala
2 x Keralan Coconut Curry
2 x Hyderabad Red Korma
100 Wilsons Rd Mornington Ph: 5975 8094
$
To enter, become a member of Mornington Peninsula Magazine here, then check out @MornPenMag on Facebook and Instagram to complete all the entry steps on the competition post.
For the salad
1 avocado, chopped
150g cherry tomatoes, halved
2 gem lettuces, washed well, dried and torn into large pieces
4-inch cucumber, thinly sliced
3 tbsp pumpkin seeds, lightly roasted 250g cooked whole grains such as barley, spelt, buckwheat etc (you can buy a packet of mixed cooked grains)
For the dressing
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Handful mint leaves, washed and extra water shaken off
Two good handfuls fresh coriander leaves and stalks, washed
Good pinch sugar
5 tsp cider or white vinegar
125g thick plain yoghurt
METHOD:
Pre-heat fan-assisted grill setting of oven to 225C. Line baking tray. Soak wooden skewers in water.
Place chicken in non-reactive bowl, add lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste and 1/3 tsp salt. Mix well and leave to marinate for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, blend dressing ingredients. Season to taste.
Add sauce and 2 tbsp yoghurt to chicken and stir well. Leave for at least 30 minutes; longer if you have time.
Thread on to skewers, keeping them close but not too tight. Place on baking tray, ideally not touching the base (use long skewers and a small, deep baking tin so edges hang over the side, or line baking tray with foil). Place under grill for 7-9 minutes, or until just cooked. You can baste with the pan juices towards the end. Turn grill up to 240C for another 2 minutes or until there is light charring on upper surface.
FAMILY
*Limit
Meanwhile, combine all salad ingredients and pour over the dressing. Toss to mix and place on plate or platter.
Remove chicken and place the skewers on the salad, pour over the pan juices, and serve.
Once upon a time, real estate was a job only for men, but times have well and truly changed. As of 2022, there are more female than male estate agents in Australia and the US. Why?
This is not an exercise in misandry, and clearly there are many very successful male agents. But hey, women make fantastic real estate agents. They instinctively work hard to build rapport, and historically – particularly in male-dominated industries – women have had to work harder to be noticed, let alone successful. Their very survival relied on becoming adept at relationships, and being adaptable and tenacious.
It’s a wonderful fact that men and women feel, think and react differently. It’s also a scientific fact that women are more empathetic. Truly understanding someone’s perspective and motivation is a powerful tool in any negotiation.
Women are often the key drivers in decision-making when it comes to real estate purchases. While a couple might make the financial decision together, it is more often the wife who selects the short list of properties and drives the inspection process. There might be an element of ‘happy wife, happy life’ but women are innately tuned to what their family needs in a home. So it follows that if women are the key decision-makers, then women agents in turn are trusted for their advice.
It’s a fact that men are usually more transactional, logical, pragmatic and financially driven in real estate purchases. Women, however, are more likely to emotionally connect to a property. Female agents are naturally wired in to how a property makes you feel so can easily resonate with buyers about how each home could work best for a family.
And yes, ‘women’s intuition’ is a thing. A real thing. Intuition may equate to less logical, but it also delivers the power of better people skills and a better ability to read body and emotional language.
Of course, success and its definition are individual. Excellent agents, male or female, have in common the traits of being trustworthy, strong negotiators, experienced and local experts, tenacious, strong communicators, passionate and self-motivated. Interview several agents, both male and female. Choose who you like and trust, but remember, women agents do have super-powers. Sorry, guys!
A: 50 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza
M: Liz, 0417 559 992
M: Meg, 0400 190 242
W: www.coastalagents.com.au
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 that’s perfect for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.
A folding arm awning will provide a versatile extension to your outdoor living area while also shading nearby windows and doors. A folding arm awning can also be used in normal rain conditions, making it an ideal all-weather cover.
Camerons Blinds & Awnings owner Norm Lees says the functional cantilever design of folding arm awnings, supported by strong, engineered, highly spring-tensioned arms, means that when extended, no posts or supports are required, leaving the area below free for you to entertain or relax. Operation is so easy and automation is also an option for all awnings, with wind and sun sensors if needed. Their motors can be operated via remote control and also via your device/home automation.
Camerons Blinds & Awnings’ state-of-the-art hardware consisting of extruded powder-coated aluminium with stainless steel components and fittings, combined with an extensive range of premium fabrics made for the Australian sun, provide the ultimate in strength, quality, shade, style and comfort.
With Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula’s largest choice of folding arm awnings, Camerons Blinds & Awnings have been manufacturing and professionally installing quality products for 38 years, with awnings to suit all budgets and applications.
Offering a shop-at-home service, they come to you to provide you with a free measure and quote, plus all the advice, solutions and samples required to transform, shade and protect your outdoor area.
You can also visit their huge showroom so you can try out full-size working products before you buy.
CAMERONS BLINDS & AWNINGS
A: 3/700 Frankston-Dandenong Rd, Carrum Downs
T: free call 1800 GOOD AWNING (1800 466 329)
W: cameronsblinds.com.au
FB: cameronsblinds
INSTA: cameronsblindsawnings
An accent chair is the perfect way to introduce a new visual element to your interior while maximising your seating. Whether you have an empty corner nook or your room is missing a final design element, use a stylish armchair to complete the look.
The simplest way to add an armchair to your living space is to choose a design from the same range as your existing sofa in terms of colour and material. This will create a cohesive look and act as an extension from your sofa, with deep plump cushions and wide seats.
For the more daring homeowners, there are endless possibilities to create a contrast with a stylish accent chair. Experiment with funky designs, a unique look, quirky finishes and more to really showcase your personality. We love the edgy design of the Hugo
designer chair upholstered in buttery leather and supported by a powder-coated black metal frame for a more masculine feel.
Another standout piece is the Munich swivel chair, boasting a curvaceous tub design for a contemporary, on-trend look. Perfect for a quiet reading nook in the corner of a bedroom, this armchair is a fun addition to any home interior.
Live in style this season and discover OZ Design Furniture's new pieces that will transform your home into a space that feels like there is no place like it. Shop online or in store today.
OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON
A: Showroom D4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington
T: 8560 1137
W: www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au
FB: OZDesignFurniture
INSTA: ozdesignfurniture
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
As most of us are aware by now, composting is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way for us to fertilise our plants and gardens. It is essentially the breaking down of organic waste materials, such as kitchen scraps and garden waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Composting not only reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfill, it also provides plants with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
There are several different composting techniques that we can use depending on the size of our gardens, each with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common methods include:
Bin composting: This is probably the most common composting technique. Using a composting bin provides a contained and controlled environment for the composting process, making it easier to manage and control the temperature, moisture, and air flow. Bin composting is a great option for those who have limited space in their yards or for those who prefer a more structured and organised approach to composting. Trench composting: This technique involves digging a trench in the soil and filling it with organic waste materials. The waste is then covered with soil and left to decompose naturally. This method is a great option for those who have large gardens or for those who are looking for a more natural and low-maintenance approach to composting. Be aware, though, that if you have wild animals frequenting your yard they may want to
burrow into it.
Sheet composting: This involves layering organic waste materials, such as leaves and grass clippings, directly on top of the soil. The layers are then covered with a layer of soil, which helps to control the temperature and moisture levels during the composting process. Sheet composting is a great option if you have
limited space and for those who want to add compost directly to their garden beds.
Worm composting: A fantastic way to recycle your kitchen scraps, this technique involves using red tiger worms (or red wrigglers), a type of composting worm, to break down organic waste materials. The worms consume the waste and produce a nutrient-rich compost known as vermi-compost. Worm composting is a great option for those who want to compost indoors or for those who want to minimise the amount of work involved in composting.
A TEAM OF HANDYMEN THAT SERVICE THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA & SURROUNDING SUBURBS
TAKING ON ALL HOUSEHOLD NEEDS: GENERAL HANDYMAN ODD JOBS AROUND YOUR HOME
Bokashi composting: This a specialised composting method that uses a mixture of bran and beneficial microbes to ferment organic waste materials. Bokashi composting is a great option for those who want to compost kitchen waste such as meat, dairy, and cooked foods, which are not typically composted using other methods.
IF WE CAN’T TAKE ON THE JOB YOU NEED OURSELVES, WE WILL CONNECT YOU WITH A TRADE THAT CAN! WHATEVER YOU NEED, WE HAVE YOU COVERED P. 0415 498 052 www.legendaryenterprises.info
Regardless of the composting technique you choose, it is important to ensure that the composting process is managed correctly. This includes providing the compost with the proper balance of moisture, air and heat, as well as adding a balanced mix of green and brown materials to ensure that the composting process is as efficient as possible.
HAPPY GARDENING!
Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens www.ediblegardens.com.auPurchasing 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. 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.
Window Awnings reduce sunlight and glare on your windows, protect the inside of your home from sun damage and greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. They’ve been perfected for the Australian lifestyle by ensuring the design and quality are paramount.
Alfresco Awnings are the perfect way to create that all-inclusive outdoor space that can be enjoyed 365 days a year. They are proven to reduce cooling costs
by up to 60 per cent* by keeping your home at a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the summer months.
Contact their Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for your free design, measure and quote. Both stores 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.
DC+B
A: Shop C4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington
T: 5975 3655
E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au
A: Store 15, Kingston Central Plaza, 288 Centre Dandenong Rd, Moorabbin Airport
T: 9566 8200
E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au
FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds
INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds
Mornington Peninsula resident Susan Breskvar can’t understand why people litter our beautiful beaches and parks. Susan is one of many who are hosting an event on Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 5, to pick up rubbish that others leave behind.
“Nobody wants to go out and see rubbish in public areas when you’re walking your dog or socialising,” Susan says. “I just feel the need to pick it up. When you think about it, the streets, the park, beachfront . . . it’s all really just an extension of our backyard, and you wouldn’t throw rubbish in your backyard, so I’m not sure why there’s so much rubbish around in public places.”
Since the first Clean Up Australia Day in 1990, more than 20 million Australians have taken part in what’s become the nation’s largest community-based environmental event. Local clean-ups are planned at 25 locations across the Peninsula. Events are organised
by individual community members, youth groups, schools, and businesses.
Susan’s event will be held on the foreshore opposite 1777 Point Nepean Rd, Capel Sound from 9am-noon. BYO gloves, and you can pick up an empty rubbish bag from the back of Susan’s ute and join the crew to clean up the foreshore. Whether you can join in for three hours or half an hour, everyone is welcome and every bit of effort helps clean up our environment.
“I think deep down everyone wants to live in a clean place. I’m hoping the event gets bigger and bigger and that even seeing people picking up rubbish might trigger something for people to think ‘hey, if we don’t throw it in the first place we don’t have to pick it up’.”
To find an event near you to join, go to https://www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/joina-clean-up and enter your postcode.
NIKKI FISHERIf you’d like to learn more about the Peninsula’s koalas, Mornington Peninsula Shire invites you to come along to a free event at The Briars on Saturday, March 18. From 10am-1pm, you, your family and friends can find out how you can help care for our koala country.
The day will begin with a Welcome to Country by Bunurong Traditional Owners, followed by a talk by Deakin University researchers about their study into the Peninsula’s koalas. You’ll be able to sign up for other activities, including learning how to grow koala trees with the shire nursery, guided walks with Briars rangers, and kids’ arts and craft sessions.
There’ll be stalls you can browse and volunteers you can talk to about how to care for koala country. Why not bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful koala country at The Briars – you might even be lucky enough to pick up a free koala tree.
Koala Conservation Group councillor delegate and Deputy Mayor Debra Mar said: “We’re pleased this important event is going ahead, as we want to engage, inspire and help our residents take action to care for our koala country.”
To book, search ‘Special Koala Event’ at www.mornpen.vic.gov.au
