Richard Smith, head gardener at Beleura House and Garden in Mornington, resisted his destiny when young. His father was an eccentric Yorkshire nurseryman, a conifer specialist who once had a Christmas tree farm and later built a ski lift and chalet on their snowy hill paddock.
Richard left school early and escaped to France with £35 in his pocket. He returned home when the money ran out, worked odd jobs to save for more travelling, but always looked for something other than a life with plants. His father dragged him to some of the UK’s best gardens – Bodnant in Wales, the gardens of Ullapool in Scotland. Something must have lodged in his brain, in his soul.
Now he arguably has the best gardening job in Victoria, certainly on the Peninsula. He and his small team manage an eccentric garden paradise that keeps its founder John Tallis’s memory alive.
Beleura House, an Italianate villa, was built in the 1860s on one of the highest points of Mornington’s coast. The
property was bought in 1916 as a summer retreat by Melbourne’s George Tallis, an owner of J C Williamson, a global theatrical empire. His son John inherited Beleura in 1948 when his father died and the garden became an all-consuming passion. John went to Europe and bought extravagant statues, pots and fountains in Italy. He added a Japanese garden, a Mediterranean courtyard, a big area for vegies and fruit, and a walled ‘Hansel and Gretel’ garden. John died in 1996 at age 86 and left Beleura to the people of Victoria through the National Trust.
The house is a museum and the garden is amazing. Richard has been head gardener for 17 years. “I reckon John Tallis would love what we do: it remains an eccentric garden,” he said.
Richard has a lot of independence but also likes running his ideas past Beleura general manager Martin Green and his predecessor Anthony Knight, a director and trustee of the Tallis Foundation, set up in 1996. Anthony spent three years at Beleura when John was alive.
“I like gardens that ask questions, gardens that jar,” Richard said. “I like change; I’m not bound by tradition. The garden is baroque, jovial, something from the end of the Renaissance.”
Richard’s greatest concern is what effect climate change will have on the garden and its soils. “We’re improving our watering and composting systems to hold moisture in. We’ll need lush, thick, healthy plants to survive future dry conditions. We have 300,000 litres of rainwater in tanks for watering and to supply the 40 water features.”
Richard is acutely aware of passing on a strong garden and good soils for a future head gardener. “I’m in awe of people like Frederick Sargood, who planted trees at Rippon Lea in the late 1800s knowing he would be compost before they matured.”
Richard said he loves the Royal Botanic Gardens at South Yarra, the Australian Garden at RBG’s Cranbourne site. And his own backyard garden at home on the southern Peninsula? “I’m in there in fits and starts. I’ll do some planting and weeks later notice it’s looking like a jungle so I head down there and get into it for a few hours.”
Beleura House and Garden has a café and a music recital centre that hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year. Visit the website for information about house and garden tours and more at beleura. org.au
MIKE HAST
Fiona is a psychologist who had melanoma in 2021; co-driver Sara is the practice manager for her obstetrician/gynaecologist husband Dr Andrew Griffiths and has had breast cancer twice. “Both Sara and I are always on the lookout for an adventure,” Fiona said. “Originally from the UK, Sara has not seen the interior of Australia. I have a history of racing 4WDs in my youth, which I loved but am no longer brave enough to do. When we came across the Shitbox Rally, it ticked all of our boxes: adventure, travelling through Outback Australia, fun, and raising money for a bloody good cause – The Cancer Council.”
And so Team Old Mole was born. “To date we have raised $14,000 through fundraising events and the generosity of local businesses, but we are not content with this – we want to reach $30,000.”
The Shitbox Rally is the largest community-led fundraiser for The Cancer Council, raising almost $36 million since its inception 13 years ago. Three rallies are held each year and attract about 250 cars. “It’s a rally, not a race,” Fiona said, “but it’s a rally with a difference: you must participate in a car worth less than $1500 and drive it 3500km over a week.
“Only four short months ago, Dad called me to say, ‘I think I’ve found you a car’. ‘Bloody fantastic,’ we thought. ‘Send us a video.’ What we saw was an unregistered 1990 Nissan Pulsar with 207,000km on the clock, semi-flat tyres, covered in mud and lichen, filled with redbacks, and it had no battery. It had been sitting in a paddock for a few years, retired from its former life as a paddock bomb. It was perfect. And it was free.”
Fiona and Sara will be driving their Shitbox from Newcastle to Townsville via Betoota from May 12-20. If you’d like to sponsor their fundraising effort, head to their donation link at autumn2023.shitboxrally.com. au/team-old-mole
Cancer is a really shitty disease – just ask survivors Fiona Pollerd and Sara Griffiths – so it’s hardly surprising these two Peninsula women are using the Shitbox Rally to do something about it.
The Hastings-based Dolphin Research Institute is ramping up its whale research and protection program this coming winter. DRI scientists, researchers and volunteers have studied whales since 2015, and executive director Jeff Weir said the best whale sighting places on the Peninsula were Cape Schanck, Flinders and Portsea back beach, along with Phillip Island’s Cape Woolamai, Pyramid Rock and the Nobbies. The whale migration season runs from April to November, but mid-June is when whales are usually first sighted off the Peninsula and in Bass Strait.
DRI, which marked its 32nd birthday last month –although it had an earlier incarnation as the Port Phillip Bay Dolphin Research Project in the late 1980s – started a citizen-science initiative called Two Bays Whale Project in 2015 as whale sightings in Bass Strait and even in Western Port and Port Phillip became more common.
The project covers between Barwon Heads and Inverloch, but will now expand to cover the coastline from Cape Otway to Wilsons Promontory.
Jeff said humpback whale sightings from 2010 “became a seasonal expectation rather than an anomaly. It’s been wonderful to see humpback and southern right whales return to our region”.
DRI marine research officer David Donnelly recently reported that the project received 178 validated sightings of 315 whales across three species –humpback, southern right and killer whales (which are actually dolphins) – last season. “Forty-six whales were added to the Victorian Humpback Whale Fluke Catalogue, bringing the total to 246 individuals,” David said. Sightings made from key coastal vantage points are recorded using Two Bays Tracker, a web-based app. It is better than phone apps, which have to be updated too often. “Two Bays project data is of value to understand the lives of whales as well as inputs to environmental assessments for wind, wave and gas energy projects in Bass Strait.”
DRI shares its photos of whale flukes with other marine
The Friends of the Mornington Regional Gallery are holding a selfdrive excursion to the Pt. Leo Estate sculpture park in Merricks on Wednesday, April 19.
Arrival time is 10.30am sharp, when there will be a walking tour of this beautiful sculpture park with highly esteemed curator Geoffrey Edwards, who will present a talk about some of these wonderful sculptures. This will be followed by a delicious
mammal research organisations nationally, including the Oceania Project – started in 1989 by the late Dr Trish Franklin and continued by her husband, Dr Wally Franklin – which studies and protects migrating humpbacks that come to Hervey Bay in Queensland to give birth. Last year, DRI submitted 46 images to an online platform that matched whales seen in the Two Bays study area to locations in NSW, Tasmania and Queensland, including a humpback off Phillip Island seen in Hervey Bay in 2019.
Meanwhile, Jeff said DRI was issuing a call to action – adopt a whale. “We’re asking people of all ages to make a commitment to the whales. We’re starting by contacting yacht clubs and lifesaving clubs around Port Phillip and will be releasing more information soon.” To get involved, go to dolphinresearch.org.au or call 5979 7100 during office hours.
MIKE HASTDolphin Research Institute scientists and volunteers have been photographing whale tails for seven years for a database that tracks individual whales as far north as Hervey Bay in Queensland. Photos: David Donnelly, DRI
light lunch accompanied by a glass of current vintage Pt. Leo Estate wine or soft drink on the all-weather wine terrace.
The excursion is limited to 30 people and the cost is $60 a person. Tickets and further details are available at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/point-leosculpture-park-tickets-573991693607
Pt. Leo Estate is at 3649 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Merricks.
Peninsula food entrepreneur Sharon Brindley has added another story to her amazing food journey: in the first weeks of 2023 she’s been a delegate on two Aboriginal international trade missions promoting Indigenous products.
Sharon was in Aotearoa New Zealand in February on a trade mission to Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) organised by Global Victoria and the Aboriginal Economic Development group. In early March she went to the US with a select group of Indigenous food entrepreneurs to wow the Americans with unique products showcasing the flavours of Australia. They spent a week at the massive Natural Expo West in Anaheim, California, and presented Australian Indigenous coffee, tea and giftware to the huge US market.
“It takes two days just to walk past every exhibitor,” Sharon said with a laugh just before flying out. “About 65,000 people will likely attend and there’s a buyer audience of 40,000.” Sharon’s Capel Sound-based business Jala Jala Treats took four types of chocolate infused with native Australian plant flavours, and six kinds of native tea.
The Yamatji Noongar woman from Western Australia grew up on Bunurong country of the Mornington Peninsula but often returned to Kalgoorlie and stayed with her grandmother, who taught her how to live off the land and gave her a love of cooking and knowledge of Indigenous ingredients and native flavours.
Sharon is best known for starting Cooee Café and Catering in Rosebud’s light industrial area in 2017, the Peninsula’s only Indigenous café and one of three in greater Melbourne. The kitchen supplied the café, naturally, as well as government, large corporates, smaller business and private clients across the Peninsula, Melbourne CBD and surrounds.
In 2020 Sharon launched wholesale supply business Jala Jala Treats after closing the café and catering businesses. “We survived pandemic lockdowns but then finding staff became a problem,” she said.
Sharon is bravely honest in saying she started her catering journey with Shaz’s takeaway in Rosebud as a way of dragging herself out of depression and anxiety.
“I had to find a way to confront my inner demons.” She failed English in Year 10. “Later I applied in writing for a business grant but was rejected. I spoke to one of the referees over the phone and told them what I
wanted to do and they said, ‘Why didn’t you put that in your application?’ I said, ‘I can’t write!’”
Turns out Sharon is a wonderful talker – and it’s this skill plus her vision for taking Indigenous products to the world that is much in demand nowadays. She says the trade trip to New Zealand has enabled Jala Jala Treats to start modestly and now her sights are set on the huge American market.
Sharon sources products from and works closely with Indigenous companies in Melbourne and Geelong. Jala Jala also offers Aboriginal herbs and spices, coffee, jams and sauces. The chocolate recipes are Sharon’s. Unlike many flavoured chocolates that are only coated, Jala Jala’s are infused – blended into the mixture with a
$70,000 infusing machine she bought.
Jala Jala Treats product packs feature a green turtle, Sharon’s totem. Jala Jala means “very good” in the Wajarri language, spoken by the people who once lived on the Murchison River in central WA.
Sharon is Victorian director of the recently formed First Nations Bushfood & Botanical Alliance, an advocacy and economic development group of First Nations people and businesses that aims to ensure the development of a thriving Indigenous bush foods and botanicals business sector. “It’s a passion project – very important to protect First Nations knowledge of bush foods and products.”
SAM KEITHAt 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.
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Beleura a baroque, jovial, eccentric garden
Richard Smith has the best gardening job in Victoria
Page 7
Support the Shitbox Rally
Two Peninsula women aim to kick cancer to the road
Page 8
Winter whale watching
Basketball in crisis
The court shortage is biting
Page 21
Kick it to me Mum!
Women’s over 35 team kicks off
Pages 49-57
Happy Easter
See our special feature full of Easter fun
Pages 58-69
Arts, Festivals, Events
Fill your days and nights with joy as Autumn comes alive
Pages 82-83
Fabulous locally crafted drinks
Six of the best here Arts & Events section
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Pages 89-98
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The season is about to begin Social pics
Pages 29, 66, 86, 87, 88 & 90
March was a huge month of events
Page 71
Brothers are no slouches
Mt Martha brothers making waves in global pyjama industry
Page 98
Peninsula hand bins make it to Qld
Read about the ReefClean Project
Left: Melissa Bell from Mayko Hair has created cool new products for blondes, see page 27
Top centre: Whale watching is on the horizon, see page 8; Top right: Richard Cornish checks out Banksia Wine Room now open in McCrae, pages 84-85.
Bottom centre: Special feature on ‘Locally Crafted Drinks’ pictured is Hickinbotham;
Bottom right: Sorrento Writers Festival is coming up, see pages 30-31
In Australia and around the world, there’s huge demand for information technology skills. The cybersecurity industry is a prime example. Aust Cyber found that nearly 17,000 more cybersecurity workers will be needed in Australia by 2026, with salaries that reflect the demand. Though the tech industry has traditionally been dominated by men, it’s fast becoming more accessible to women. More women than ever before are considering a career in IT. Entry-level roles include junior cybersecurity analyst or level one networking support, and there’s plenty of opportunity for career progression.
One big reason more women are entering the industry is the increased emphasis on workplace flexibility. It’s now commonplace –especially in larger companies – for tech workers to negotiate flexible working arrangements. You may be able to arrange a shorter working week, your own start or finish times, or be able to work from home or remotely. Increased flexibility can be helpful for women studying, with families or running their own business.
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RT Edgar Peninsula has won the prestigious title of Sales Team of the Year at the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s 2023 Awards For Excellence.
Led by owner and director Vicki Sayers, the Mount Eliza-based agency was recognised for its outstanding achievements at a ceremony alongside the nation’s finest agents at the Crown Ballroom in Perth on March 9.
“It was a real surprise; we were delighted,” Vicki said. “We were up against some very strong competition from across the country and I’m incredibly proud of the team I work with.”
The agency received accolades for its award-winning submission that highlighted how the team’s structure, project management skills and performance best supported vendors and buyers.
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“Customer service has always been central,” Vicki said. “The structure of our team enables us to achieve great results in a timely manner and manage challenging situations when they occur. With a team approach we are able to personalise the experience and maximise the outcome.”
As well as being named Sales Team of the Year, RT Edgar Peninsula was also a finalist in the Community Service Award category.
Since opening in 2018, the agency has achieved phenomenal success. Vicki has been named Residential Salesperson of the Year for six consecutive years by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria and is also the first woman to win this award. Last year the agency took home a swag of honours at the REIV awards, including Residential Sales Team of the Year, Residential Marketing (Budget Under $10,000), and the Community Service Award.
A campaign to boost basketball on the Mornington Peninsula and halt people leaving the sport has been launched by Basketball Victoria and the region’s three associations. Southern Peninsula Basketball Association (the Sharks), Western Port Basketball Association (Steelers), and Mornington District Basketball Association (Breakers) have formed Peninsula Basketball Project Group to lobby all three levels of government to step up to the stripe and fund eight to 10 new courts in the next two years.
Teams in all three associations are being forced to turn away new players including juniors excited to start their sporting lives, schedule midweek games for 16-year-olds that finish as late as 10.30pm, and curtail big events – all due to too few courts. Up to 200 junior players could be turned away this year. Worse still, no new courts have been planned or funded by governments this or next financial year.
Games are starting later and later as clubs try to accommodate an annual growth rate of up to 28 per cent against a state average of 7 per cent. Governments are asking people of all ages to adopt more healthy lifestyles but are underfunding the means to do so.
The Peninsula now has more than 8000 registered players hitting the court every week.
Western Port association general manager Peter Caspersz reportedly said players, parents and officials were leaving the game over frustration with lack of courts. Players are travelling to Carrum Downs and Seaford for home games as petrol costs soar.
Mornington District has a waiting list of 200 players.
Southern Peninsula association general manager Ben White said basketball needed the support of Mornington Peninsula Shire Council before state and federal governments would
consider funding new courts. “We’re looking forward to the shire council’s long-awaited indoor sports capacity plan,” Mr White said.
The plan was started in 2018 and was released in 2020. A “second version” is expected to be released for public comment mid-2023 with the final plan published in the second half of the year. An earlier audit stated the Peninsula would need at least 15 new courts by 2030. The only new court built in recent times is Rosebud Primary School’s single court in its new gymnasium.
Mr White says the association’s annual Southern Peninsula Tournament last November, a key event for 35 years for junior basketballers throughout metro Melbourne as a pre-season warm-up, saw 25,000 people come to the Peninsula for two days, but organisers had to restrict entries and turn away 10,000 people. “Basketball Victoria estimates the Peninsula lost more than $1 million in potential revenue in accommodation, tourism and hospitality during an off-peak period.”
Netball, table tennis, badminton and volleyball also were suffering from lack of facilities, he said, adding the ideal funding model would see the Federal Government contribute 50 per cent, the state 25 per cent and the council 25 per cent to new centres.
A long-proposed $10 million three-court extension to the current three-court Dromana stadium at Dromana Secondary College has stalled and looks unlikely to be built before 2028 at the earliest. It was to have a show court with seating for 2000 people as well as a wellness centre. Southern Peninsula has 300 teams and manages courts at Dromana and Rosebud colleges.
A State Government spokesman said community groups wanting to expand or rebuild stadiums should first work with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council “to develop a proposal for consideration through future funding opportunities”.
SAM KEITH
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The Australian Local Government Women’s Association’s biennial national conference is on from May 18-20 at the RACV Resort at Cape Schanck. Mornington Peninsula Shire was announced as the host in March. The shire was already planning to host the state conference.
ALGWA Victorian branch president Cr Kylie Spears said the branch was delighted to be hosting the 2023 national conference with the shire. ALGWA was formed in 1951 to encourage women to participate in local government, and has held annual conferences since 1966, including five in Victoria. The 2021 event was cancelled due to the pandemic.
The conference theme is Connect, Inspire and Thrive, and guest speakers include former Liberal deputy prime minister and frequent Peninsula visitor Julie Bishop, pictured, anti-racism champion Tasneem Chopra OAM, global trends expert Simon Kuestenmacher, peace activist and author Gillian Hicks, federal Regional Development Minister Kristy McBain, Gippsland businesswoman and women’s mentor Maree McPherson OAM, and former Australian cricketer and now commentator and charity ambassador Mel Jones OAM.
Conference delegates are being offered Peninsula delights such as tours and visits to hot springs, wine classes, Sorrento, coast walks and golf, and will receive booking gifts of Peninsula products such as botanical gin, produce hamper, body products gift pack or a wine pack of local drops.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including in-kind products and services. Details: genevieve.quirk@ mornpen.vic.gov.au
In early March, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council launched a six-year Food Economy and Agroecology Strategy, a document almost three years in the making but one that had its genesis years ago when councillors, shire officers and primary producers started to properly promote the Peninsula as a quality, fresh and innovative food region – and place a higher value on the region’s soils and landscape.
Agroecology – a combination of the words ‘agriculture’ and ‘ecology’ – is farming that centres on food production making the best use of nature’s “goods and services” while not damaging these resources. The document states that regenerative agriculture is working with the forces of nature to enhance production, reduce reliance on external inputs, and increase farmer well-being.
But there will be some objections to the shire’s strategy, as “regenerative agriculture” does not mean organic agriculture. Fertilisers, herbicides and other chemicals can be “used strategically and selectively so collateral damage is minimised”.
The strategy was produced by Melbourne consultants
Declan McDonald, David Rako and Helen Millicer, and launched at Barragunda Farm at Cape Schanck. Mr McDonald, a soil scientist “dedicated to regenerative soil management”, said the strategy was “ambitious and far-sighted; important and ground-breaking”. Mr Rako is director of an environmental consultancy and Ms Millicer is a sustainability and climate specialist. The launch included presentations by farmer and agroecologist Tammi Jonas and Cecilia Riebl of Trust for Nature on farmland covenants. Ms Jonas, from Eganstown near Daylesford, and her family raise “happy, tasty, heritage-breed large black pigs on pasture”. She is passionate about agroecology and “focuses on living a life in common with nature, and managing animals for optimum soil health as multiple species are rotated around the farm to grow fertility and diversity on the paddocks”.
Barragunda Farm’s Hayley Morris hosted the event, which included lunch by Barragunda executive chef Simone Watts and Millers Bakery using produce from the Barragunda Collective, young farmers who rent plots in the property’s garden and grow produce for the restaurant and other customers. Mayor Steve Holland and councillors David Gill, Debra Mar and Antonella Celi attended.
Cr Holland said the strategy was “a collective action plan to radically transform the way food is produced on the Peninsula. Our agriculture, food and beverage sector is worth $1.3 billion a year. The strategy charts a course to a thriving and sustainable food economy”.
SAM KEITH
Events of the past three years, including two hip surgeries, were not going to prevent Hastings author Fran Henke from finishing her latest novel, The Coriolis Effect. Fran said readers wanted to know what happened next in The Fair Wind series, which started as
a trilogy 10 years ago but became a series when she envisaged a fourth book.
“I wanted to know what happened to the characters too,” she says with a laugh, “so had to get on with it, deal with the pandemic and my physical problems.”
The first three books were set in 19th century Victoria – during the 1850s gold rush, the Eureka Rebellion, and early moves towards Federation in 1901. Book one was based on an extraordinary true story told by a friend about her ancestors, set on the western shores of Port Phillip. Where would book four take her? Fran fancied the Middle East and another sea voyage.
On this journey, young writer Phoebe Anderson, whose parents were the main characters of the first three books, courageously exposes Australia’s appalling treatment of orphans and meets a child orphaned by Spanish flu. Then, improbably, Phoebe meets a Bedouin prince mourning the loss of his family. The mysterious Coriolis Effect brings together three people from very different worlds.
The Coriolis Effect is Fran’s 24th book, but only her fourth novel. Earlier books drew on her love of gardening. Later came books aimed at helping fellow
Lions clubs on the Mornington Peninsula have funded a mobile shower and laundry unit for people experiencing homelessness. The Jayco brand van has two showers and toilet cubicles as well as a commercial washing machine and dryer. The $60,000 van will be hauled around the southern Peninsula for 12 months by a Mazda BT-50 dual cab utility loaned by Mornington Mazda.
The SPLaSh (Southern Peninsula Laundry and Shower) van was funded by Lions clubs of Flinders, Rye, Dromana and McCrae with contributions from Lions Australia and Lions International as well as private benefactors. It was presented last month to Rosebud-based Southern Peninsula Community Support.
SPCS CEO Jeremy Maxwell said the van was “a great initiative from local community groups and businesses working together to assist the community. The SPLaSh project assists those
living rough on the southern Peninsula”. The van was currently parked on the foreshore at Rosebud to meet a need for “female-friendly facilities”, he said, and a trial was about to start to see where the van would best be utilised, similar to how Mornington Peninsula Shire’s library bus used to operate, visiting 16 towns on a set schedule each week. The mobile library prime mover was decommissioned in September 2021, a victim of the pandemic.
Mr Maxwell said the van was the initiative of Flinders Lions “which set out to assist SPCS, which supports hundreds of clients each year who need food, toiletries, temporary accommodation and counselling. The Flinders club initially raised $15,000 through events and donations, and successfully applied for a matching grant from the Australian Lions Foundation. Flinders then approached Dromana, McCrae and Rye Lions and their contributions enabled a second grant to be obtained, from Lions Clubs International Foundation”.
polio survivors experiencing late effects of the virus. She is secretary and editor of Mornington Peninsula Post Polio Support Group and vice-chair and editor of Polio Network Victoria.
When finishing book four, ideas for a fifth novel came to her. “I couldn’t help jotting down page one for book five, set in wartime,” she says. “Then our darling spaniel Timmy died with dementia. I started a university short course on understanding dementia with the aim of writing and illustrating a children’s book on the subject. I figured if children understood what was happening to their pets, this might translate into them knowing what was happening to people in their families.”
Fran aims to self-publish Timmy’s Daughter – “It has a happy ending” – by her 80th birthday. Then it’ll be back to the fifth novel. Some people are just unstoppable.
The Coriolis Effect, Flying Pony Press, Hastings. Order a copy via email from flyingponypress@gmail.com ($30 plus $10 postage in Australia). Earlier books in The Fair Wind series are available in paperback and as ebooks. And read more about Fran’s amazing journey at www.franhenke.com
SAM KEITHFundraising started in November 2021 and the van was launched on February 21. Mr Maxwell said the launch was attended by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council CEO John Baker, some councillors, more than 100 supporters and Lions club members, and Lions district and foundation representatives. "The project is a great example of people doing one more thing to help the community."
Details: SPCS, 5986 1285. SAM KEITH
Several footy clubs in Melbourne’s suburbs and country Victoria have gone into recess this year, but the women’s game is alive and well on the Peninsula.
On Saturday, April 1, over35s women from Peninsula Raiders Superules Football Club were set to make history by playing their first game – and, girl, were they excited! Nearly excited as some of their kids.
The two young sons of Raiders recruiting volunteer and player Danielle Raisher were amazed when they went to the first over-35s training session in January.
“Oh my gosh, my Mum can kick a footy,” they yelled as Danielle roosted the ball through the goals. The boys, aged seven and 10, are obsessed with football, she said.
“We barrack for Geelong, the AFL premiers, but my parents are from Scotland and England so I only knew about the round ball game as a youngster. The AFLW has done a good job promoting the women’s game to young girls and now older women. Junior clubs on the Peninsula are getting more girls every year. It's fantastic.”
The Raiders over-35 women train at Narambi Reserve on Narambi Rd, off Robertson Drive, in Mornington. The team is the only one on the Peninsula and this side of Mordialloc. Their home ground is Alexandra Park on Main St, where the long-awaited rebuild of the clubrooms is under way, a $9 million project eight years in the making.
The team had its genesis in an AFL initiative last year, Masters QuickKick, run by Women’s AFL Masters Victoria. Six sessions saw several dozen enthusiastic women aged 35 to 50 learn basics such as kicking and handballing, and the club decided to form a team.
The men have four teams and have been playing for many years – over-35s, 45s and 50s. The 45s won the flag last year, the first by the Raiders for 25 years.
There’s 13 women in the inaugural Raiders squad. They’ll play nine-a-side footy this season – three backs,
three midfielders and three forwards. “We’ll build up to a squad of 24 and play 18-a-side,” Danielle said. “We’re all brand new to actually playing footy, but most of us are very fitness-minded and go to gyms and parkruns, for example. Our coach is Damian ‘Parksy’ Park, who plays with the over-50s men. Many of us have been involved in our kids playing footy, including on the admin and operational side, but now it’s our turn to run out on to the ground.”
The Raiders will play games against Mordialloc, Port Melbourne, Werribee, Williamstown, Darebin and Box Hill. Games are played every second Saturday on smaller grounds over four 15-minute quarters. Modified rules include no tackling opponents to the ground.
“We rotate through all parts of the ground every quarter and everyone gets a touch – more opportunities to take marks and kick goals,” Danielle said. “The best part is the social side. We’ve all become firm friends and our kids are becoming friends too. We support each other’s physical and mental health. It’s amazing being part of a football team and club.”
Team members come from all over – Rosebud, Hastings, Mornington, Mount Eliza and Frankston, for example. The women are office workers, nurses, stayat-home mums and teachers. One player is a police officer. They train every Wednesday from 6.30pm and players are encouraged to bring their children. Superules women and men often train alongside each other.
Want to join? Contact Danielle Raisher on 0402 747 188. The men are also recruiting – anyone who turns 35 or older this year. Contact Duane Annable on 0419 529 969.
SAM KEITH
Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older people who would like to live independently with some help to make life easier. They are typically located within the village community centre where there is always someone to talk to and a relaxed community atmosphere to enjoy.
There are many benefits of serviced apartment living at Long Island Retirement Village in Seaford and they include: Extra support – benefit from visiting health professionals and allied health services. There are activities to suit every lifestyle and ability.
Chef-prepared daily meals – every meal is freshly prepared and full of flavour. Enjoy the social side of eating in the dining room or, if you prefer, you can have your meal delivered to your room.
Social activities – join in as much or as little as you like. There are morning teas, music and other entertainment, art, craft and hobby groups, board games, movies, seasonal events, swimming, shopping, and day trips in the village bus.
Safety and security – emergency call buttons are in every unit. Nursing staff at the village provide additional peace of mind. Be freed up from cleaning and laundry – your assisted living apartment will be cleaned for you every week. Laundering of bed linen and towels will be done for you too.
Affordable living – Centennial Living’s Long Island Village has serviced apartments with an entry price less than you might expect, ranging from $150,000 to $210,000. When you move in, you pay a monthly service fee. Contact us to find out more about the costs.
For more information, go to www.centennialliving.com.au and fill out the Contact Us form.
CENTENNIAL LIVING
T: 1300 098 000
W: www.centennialliving.com.au
When Matthew Flinders entered Port Phillip on April 26, 1802, he believed that he had reached Western Port. He soon realised his mistake, and wrote in his journal: “I congratulated myself on having made a new and useful discovery.” On his arrival at Port Jackson he was disappointed to learn that Lieutenant John Murray had already discovered and named the bay Port King, after the Governor of NSW. Governor King, however, renamed it Port Phillip. Murray also named Arthurs Seat, and though he remained for about a month he did little exploration.
On April 27, Flinders climbed Arthurs Seat and found to his surprise that Port Phillip was so large that he was unable to see the northern end, even from such a high vantage point. He did, however, see another bay to the eastward which he correctly assumed was Western Port. During his visit of about seven days he explored the southern coast of Port Phillip and parts of Corio Bay but did not go far to the north.
Before reaching Port Phillip, Flinders had charted the southern coast of Australia from Cape Leeuwin. Late in July he departed from Port Jackson to continue the task, but although he successfully surveyed the coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria, it was discovered that the ship was in danger of sinking. He therefore made an anticlockwise passage around Australia to Port Jackson, where he arrived on June 9, 1803. Much of the journey, however, was out of sight of land.
HMS Investigator had been built as a coaltrading vessel in 1795. She had a shallow draught and excellent carrying space for her length, which made her suited for navigating close to the coast and to carry supplies for an extended voyage of exploration. She was
Sloop
bought by the Royal Navy in 1801 but as she was not required for war service, she was chosen for the charting of the Australian coastline.
On her return to Port Jackson in 1803, Investigator was considered to be beyond repair and was sold by the Admiralty. Rebuilt in England, she worked all over the world as a merchant vessel until 1853, when she was sold in Melbourne to be a storage hulk. She was broken up in 1872.
MAURIE HUTCHINSON President, Peninsula Ship SocietyT: 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.
Located some 800 light-years away in the constellation Vela the Sails, the Vela supernova remnant is what remains of a massive star that exploded more than 11,000 years ago, blasting its outer layers into space. As those layers ram into surrounding clouds of gas and dust, they glow.
If you own a holiday apartment, especially in the northern half of the Peninsula stretching all the way to the heart of Melbourne itself, there’s a chance your property may be underperforming under its current management. Maybe you’re taking care of it yourself on top of your day-to-day life or letting an agent take care of it for you; do you really feel its getting the best attention it deserves and making the most from bookings that it can?
Holiday Rentals Australia is seeing a huge boom in booking interest from prospective guests for their properties which includes houses and apartments. Apartments however are seeing the highest number of enquiries and all the company’s recently launched properties, managed on behalf of their owners, are flourishing. Their latest apartment launch, using the company’s signature thorough approach to photos and listing content, saw 5 quality bookings received in the first 48 HOURS of the listing going live. Their latest house launch received a long, high value booking within just 36 HOURS.
If you think your property could be doing better, call Stephen on 0435 768 514. It might be time you shook things up with your management to make sure you don’t miss out on the unprecedented boom of domestic travel we’re expecting this summer.
Call Stephen today on 0435 768 514 for a friendly no-obligation chat and appraisal of your property.
www.HolidayRentalsAustralia.com.au
The most impressive sight when looking up this month is the great arc of the Milky Way galaxy. It stretches all the way from the magnificent region in the east around the constellations Scorpius and Sagittarius, through Crux, Carina, and Vela, and down to Puppis and Canis Major. The bright star Acrux, or Alpha Crucis, is a multiple star in Crux that can be resolved by a small telescope. The galaxy M83, also known as the Southern Pinwheel, is an excellent largeaperture telescope object in Hydra. But the real star of the show is the stunning globular cluster NGC 5139, Omega Centauri, in the constellation Centaurus. A small telescope reveals many of its millions of stars.
It is also the perfect time of the year for observing the dark nebula known as the Coalsack, which is visible to the naked eye and sitting right next to Crux, aka the Southern Cross. The Coalsack appears dark because it stops the light from the stars behind it from getting to our eyes. Then not far from the Coalsack you will find the wonderful open cluster NGC 4755, the Jewel Box Cluster. It looks like a hazy star to the naked eye, but binoculars or a small telescope will reveal its individual, colourful twinkling stars. If you are observing with binoculars, make sure you do not miss two marvellous sights in the nearby constellation Carina: IC 2602, the Southern Pleiades; and NGC 3372, the Carina Nebula.
Mercury will be at its highest altitude in the evening sky on April 9, then at its greatest elongation east a few days later on April 12, which means it is at its farthest distance from the sun.
And there are two meteor showers in April. The Lyrids reach their peak on the night of April 21-22, when you can expect to see an average of 10 meteors an hour in dark, clear skies. Then the Puppid meteor shower will be producing its peak rate of meteors around April 24. No special equipment or a lot of skill is required to view a meteor shower. All you really need is a clear sky and lots of patience. For optimum viewing, find a secluded spot away from the city lights. Once you have found your viewing spot, make sure you are comfortable, especially if you plan to stay out long –meteor-watching can be a waiting game!
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
When it comes to food and drink, we’re blessed on the Mornington Peninsula with seemingly endless options of memorable places to eat, drink, and be with friends and family. As well, we have markets and farmgates where you can shop for exceptional quality, locally grown produce and gourmet delights. Where do you even begin?
Well, we’ve made it easy for you with the fifth annual edition of Eat.Drink, our much-loved bible for food and winelovers. With more than 120 hospitality venues featured from restaurants and cafes to wineries, distilleries, cideries and breweries, we celebrate the rich and diverse food and drinks culture of our region – and, of course, the people who make it all happen.
Wine writer Max Allen shares all the news from the 2022 vintage, and there’s a fantastic touring map from Mornington Peninsula Wine featuring 48 cellar doors to discover. This year, Crittenden Estate celebrates 40 years in the wine industry, which is certainly worth raising a glass to. If you’re a lover of art and wine, be sure to put Montalto on your list. Allow time to walk its sculpture trail and see Terestri Anenemi, the sculpture
by Tasmanian-based artist Marcus Tatton that recently won the 2022 Montalto Sculpture Prize, as well as the many other works of art.
If you’re a caffeine connoisseur, you’ll want to take a tour of the Peninsula’s wonderful cafes. But a word of advice: you’ll need to stay a while to get to them all.
For those who love to cook, a trip to Dromana’s Torello Farm or Hawkes Farm in Boneo will have you inspired by the abundant farm-fresh seasonal produce. If you want to treat the kids, head to Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm where they can pick their own strawberries.
As for restaurants and vineyards, food writer Richard Cornish beautifully sums up the quality and variety we’re known for: “Choosing favourite food and wine experiences on the Peninsula is like trying to choose your favourite child. An impossible task.”
Grab a copy of Eat.Drink and see for yourself. It’s available at newsagencies and bookshops across the Peninsula and Melbourne for $14.99. For more follow us on social media @eatdrinkmornpen –and tag us in your posts when you’re out visiting venues featured in Eat.Drink.
advice is underpinned by our strategic and deep ensuring that our advice is holistic by nature.
Mornington’s finest day is back as Neds Mornington Cup Day returns on Saturday, April 22. The race card features the $350,000 Listed Neds Mornington Cup (2400m), with the winner guaranteed
a ballot-free entry into the 2023 $5 million Caulfield Cup (2400m) in October.
Keen punters and social revellers across the grounds can indulge in the afternoon as the front lawn comes alive in thrilling fashion with a bounty of food trucks on offer and live music across the grounds. Young racegoers can also relish in the day, spoilt for choice by a range of activities and entertainment, including a kids’ carnival.
The Peninsula Marquee presents the perfect place to perch trackside for a premium race day experience complete with an all-inclusive menu and picturesque views of Mornington Racecourse.
Step out in style at Neds Garden Bar, the top spot to play on Neds Mornington Cup Day, where members and the public can indulge in an allinclusive food and drinks package while enjoying a prime trackside location and live music in an elevated garden party atmosphere.
Neds Mornington Cup Day is an all-round crowd pleaser, offering a spectacular day out for everyone. Get your tickets at www.mrc.racing.com
MORNINGTON RACING CLUB
A: 320 Racecourse Rd, Mornington W: www.mrc.racing.com
Mornington Racecourse
Saturday 22 April
You have to admire a working woman with young children who invests $100,000 on hair shampoo. Now settle down, it’s not for herself. It’s for all the blondes and brunettes in the world. Mount Eliza entrepreneurial hairdresser Melissa Niblock-Bell, aka Mel Bell, has created the first-ever black shampoo as part of her LoCou hair products range.
“My Black Shampoo fills, tones and cleans for a fresher, brighter blonde,” Melissa said. “It’s specifically formulated to tone the brassiness out of blonde and brunette hair. Users will notice less yellow and brighter results after the first wash while having hydrated and glossy hair. Traditional black hair colouration is made up of primary colours red, yellow and blue. This allows for filling and toning pre-lightened hair while counteracting unwanted yellow or brassy tones. It doesn’t overtone, however; it leaves hair with a softer, brighter finish rather than a pure purple or blue tone, which can create a darker appearance.”
Melissa created the shampoo over three years after trying 58 formulations in her kitchen at home on mannequins adorned with real human hair. “It doesn’t stain the hair or scalp. Purple shampoos are dense; mine has a gel-like texture.” It’s also vegan – not derived from animal products – organic, and includes hemp seed extract.
She worked for 18 months with a Melbourne scientist to create the formula. Then came the experimentation phase – “My poor husband when he walked into the kitchen that first time . . .” Melissa estimates the shampoo has cost $100,000 to develop.
It’s a brave move by a gutsy woman who started her hairdressing career at age 15 and five years later opened her first salon, Mayko Hair, at McCrae in 2008. In 2010 she opened a second salon at Mount Eliza. “People think of hairdressing as an uneducated craft,” she said. “They’re wrong; there’s a lot of science behind hair care.”
Melissa is a master hairstylist, the highest qualification in the industry, and a master colourist after completing rigorous certification programs. She has been a Telstra Business Award finalist and received top accolades from her industry. She’s trained and mentored about half a dozen women who’ve later opened their own salons.
“Hairdressers are expected to recommend products that contain a host of barely pronounceable ingredients. In 2020 I decided it was time for a change. I’ve created an ethical, sustainable and high-performance haircare range that includes styling, shampoo and conditioning products. LoCou Black is the hero product. The range is not tested on animals, has refill options and uses sustainable packaging.”
Her products are “free of silicone, sulphates, parabens, ethoxylates, paragons, propylene glycol, petrochemical cleansers, phthalates, DEA and artificial colours”.
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
An industrial estate makes an unlikely home for 14 local makers and mongers. Snack on brûléed goat’s cheese, sip craft rum and gin, shop Japanese denim, and a whole lot more.
Out to put this abundant pocket of the Mornington Peninsula firmly on the map, the Dromana Habitat was conceived as an artisanal precinct celebrating the eclectic mix of makers and producers that call it home. Dromana Habitat sneaks up on you. Driving into the industrial estate-turned-tourism drawcard, you don’t see any of the collective of makers and artisans until you’re right on top of them.
While the ’Ninch is known for its beaches, hot springs, wineries and restaurants, Dromana Habitat is reason
enough for a day trip or for locals to explore their own backyard.
Discover the aromatics of Red Hill Candle Co. and the lush plant haven that is Verdant Dwellings, where you’ll struggle to go home empty-handed. Stop by and sample award-winning vegan cheese at the Vegan Dairy and enjoy a relaxed wine at Rhino Tiger Bear and Rahona Valley’s cellar door.
The Dromana Habitat is celebrating its launch with a winter festival held inside the Habitat on Saturday, June 10. See www.dromanahabitat.com.au for all the event details. Expect live music, kids’ activities and more!
DROMANA HABITAT
W: www.dromanahabitat.com.au
FB: dromanahabitat INSTA: dromanahabitat_
LEAVE THE FREEWAY AND FIND THE SOURCE.DROMANA INDUSTRIAL ESTATE DROMANAHABITAT.COM.AU @DROMANAHABITAT_
Given you’re reading this, you probably find yourself on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. You’re either here as a local who has decided to call this place home; you’re working in one of our ever-growing business hubs and precincts scattered across the Peninsula; or you’re spending your tourist dollars at one of our fine hospitality or recreational venues. Unfortunately, there’s a glaring problem: there is not enough government investment made in our region, and we must change that. As the population increases and residents rely on more services and infrastructure, we need government to take the Peninsula more seriously.
The Committee for Mornington Peninsula provides a unified voice to advance the region, advocate for significant government investment, and influence the direction of the Mornington Peninsula over the coming decades. One of the five main pillars of the Committee for Mornington Peninsula’s strategic objectives is to create and cultivate an engaged community in our region. To do this, we need to work closely – in a bipartisan way – with our elected representatives, stay top of mind for decision-makers at state and federal government, and provide Mornington
Peninsula businesses and community organisations the opportunity to form and influence our advocacy goals.
So how are we doing this? The committee will provide regular gatherings and opportunities for our members to engage with influential decision-makers. We will also facilitate regular roundtable conversations on policy matters that affect us as a region – because we are unique to the rest of Melbourne, and we must embrace that.
This year, the committee is working collaboratively with local government on the Peninsula’s advocacy priorities because we are more powerful as a region with a united voice. Strong advocacy and leadership is required to improve our region’s social and economic capacity in order to make the Peninsula the best place to live, work and visit.
To view all the advocacy priorities of the Committee for Mornington Peninsula, please visit www.committeeformp.com.au
JOSH SINCLAIR COMMITTEE FOR MORNINGTON PENINSULA
T: 0477 309 313
W: www.committeeformp.com.au
FB: CommitteeforMorningtonPeninsula INSTA: committee4morningtonpeninsula
Josh Sinclair is CEO of the Committee for Mornington Peninsula
Challenges and opportunities: Committee for Mornington Peninsula enjoyed a Members breakfast at Mercetta on March 3. A few dozen members caught up for coffee in a casual environment to discuss the challenges and opportunities the Mornington Peninsula faces. To get involved or come to the next meeting, email joshua.sinclair@committeeformp.com.au
More than 100 writers, academics, journalists, singers and respected community figures will head to Sorrento this month for the inaugural Sorrento Writers Festival. With 90 events scheduled from April 27-30, the festival will include author ‘in conversations’, panel discussions, How To Write sessions, a music concert, a schools’ program and other performances.
Booker Prize winner Tom Keneally will be joined by Miles Franklin winners Alexis Wright and Sofie Laguna, as well as academics and educators Laureate Professor Peter Doherty, Professor Marcia Langton, Professor Larissa Behrendt, Dr Barry Jones and Dr Don Watson. Others will include Craig Silvey, Thomas Mayo, Chloe Hooper, Jane Caro, Chris Hammer, Michael Veitch, Sally Rippin, Megan Hess, Barrie Cassidy, Niki Savva, Kerry O’Brien, Heather Ewart and Hannie Rayson.
"It is an honour to have this opportunity to connect so many extraordinary Australian authors with fans of their work,” said festival director and event creator Corrie Perkin, pictured. “I have no doubt our guest speakers will bring a vast range of ideas, views, knowledge, expertise, thoughtfulness, provocations, dreams, ambitions, and great conversations to our four-day festival. And we can’t wait.”
Corrie said she expected the festival would bring many visitors to the Peninsula. “The beauty and attractions of our coastal region and the excitement of a premier literary festival is a heady mix,” she said. “We feel certain festival-goers will have a great time during their visit.”
To book tickets, visit sorrentowritersfestival.com.au. You can sign up to become a subscriber and also follow the festival on Instagram @sorrentowritersfestival.com.au
Anyone can receive a concussion, but those who engage in high-impact sports are at greater risk –and this is where baseline testing comes in.
A baseline test is usually performed at the beginning of a sports season to establish a person’s baseline cognitive and physical function. A practitioner trained in providing baseline testing – such as the team at The Sports Injury Clinic – administers a series of tasks. If you later experience a concussion, you’ll be asked to complete the same tasks to gauge how well you’re recovering.
One of the main benefits of baseline testing is that concussion treatment can be customised to the individual and their specific situation. Four weeks of rehabilitation and recovery is the standard, but some of us recover more quickly and are ready to safely return to sport earlier than that.
The Sports Injury Clinic is recognised by worldleading concussion care organisation Complete Concussions, and the clinic’s concussion practitioners tailor rehabilitation programs to each person by gradually increasing session intensity until full capacity is restored. If you think you, your child or your team might be at risk of concussion at some point in the future, book in for a baseline test with The Sports Injury Clinic’s experts today.
THE SPORTS INJURY CLINIC
A: 365-367 Nepean Highway, Frankston
T: 9783 9990
W: www.tsic.com.au
APRIL 19
Despite only launching mid last year, the Frankston Business Collective is already making its mark among local businesses. With our monthly networking events, FBC Frankston Women in Business events, weekly eNewsletter, educational programs, and our recently launched FBC Business Excellence Awards, businesses are turning to us to assist them on their journey to success.
Last month we launched our educational series with a fantastic program focusing on cyber security, a very topical issue that may adversely affect businesses of any size if not guarded against. Twenty-five attendees heard from Extreme Networks CEO James Eling on ways they can protect their businesses and assets.
Our networking event will be at Wagalot, another local business. Wagalot makes, bakes and delivers fun, cute and rewarding treats for dogs. Philip and Alice started the journey as Diamond Dog Food & Bakery in Brighton back in 2010. This was the beginning of making lots of tails wag a lot. We believe Wagalot helps dog owners be involved in the process of treating and bonding with their pets in a rewarding and engaging feelgood way. Wagalot is the innovator and leader in the ‘celebration’ treat category – creating fun and exciting treats that are all natural with no nasties. With steady growth in the past five years, Wagalot treats are already stocked in more than 400 outlets Australia-wide, and to keep up with the demand the company recently moved to larger premises in Carrum Downs. Wagalot looks forward to seeing you there on April 19 and would love to meet your pups as well. Well-socialised dogs on a leash are welcome too.
APRIL 28
This month our program focus will be on digital marketing. This will be led by Tony Sambell, from the successful Frankston-based business Spicy Web.
MAY 11
Our next FBC Frankston Women in Business event will take place at McClelland Gallery and Sculpture Park with another two terrific businesswomen: Pippa Hanson from The Sports Injury Clinic, and business coach and mentor Therese O’Neill.
To register for any of our events, visit www.frankstonbusinesscollective.com.au/fbc-events, and to become a member of the Frankston Business Collective, visit www.frankstonbusinesscollective.com.au/membership
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Therese@Therese.Co
Your superannuation death benefits can form part of your estate and be disposed of according to your will if:
• You have executed a valid binding death benefit nomination (BDBN) directing that the benefits be dealt with according to your will; or,
• In the absence of any BDBN, your fund’s trustee in its discretion decides to pay the superannuation death benefits to your estate.
If there is no BDBN directing the superannuation death benefits to the member's estate, the fund’s trustee may decide to pay the superannuation death benefits directly to one or more of the member’s dependants.
A case in Western Australia highlights the problems that can arise where there are inconsistencies between a will and BDBN. After the death of his wife, a husband who was the co-trustee and the other member of a self-managed superannuation fund holding significant assets resolved to pay the entire benefit to himself. This was contrary to his wife’s wishes expressed in her will that directed her superannuation be paid to her children, with none to go to her husband.
The children challenged this decision with the court, holding that the trustee of the self-managed superannuation fund could pay the death benefit to the husband (himself), and the children failed in their application.
If you have any questions about estate planning, you can call us on 5975 7588 or visit our website at www.carrollgoldsmith.com.au to arrange an appointment.
CARROLL GOLDSMITH LAWYERS
A: Level 1, 176 Main St, Mornington
T: 5975 7588
W: www.carrollgoldsmith.com.au
Throwing an old household battery in your kerbside bin can send a rubbish truck or an entire facility up in flames. Unfortunately, we’ve seen this happening lately due to community members incorrectly disposing of hazardous waste in this way. Household hazardous waste includes a broad range of products that are flammable, toxic, explosive or corrosive. A substance is hazardous if it: Can catch fire;
Can react or explode when mixed with other substances;
Can release dangerous vapours; or, Is corrosive or toxic.
These items can cause a fire if incorrectly disposed of:
All batteries, including household, car, phone, laptop, power tool, camera, and vaping devices; Aerosol cans that are not empty; Household chemicals; Gas bottles/butane cans; and, Flares.
These types of items should not be placed in your kerbside waste bins but taken to your closest drop-off point. Disposing of hazardous waste correctly will not only protect our environment, but our community, the people who collect our kerbside bins, those sorting our recycling and working at our landfills.
Find where to correctly dispose of your hazardous waste at mornpen.vic.gov.
au/hazardouswaste
Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to your community, meet people and feel a sense of belonging. Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and achievement. It can help you feel you are part of the community and help you feel better about yourself. You can share your talent and learn new skills. You can meet new people and experience the joy of being around others.
We spoke to garden maintenance volunteer Chris to find out why he loved volunteering, what were the benefits of volunteering, and why he thought more people should consider volunteering. “I’ve been in gardening professionally for many years,” Chris said. “During the seven years I have volunteered, I have learnt a lot and worked with gardening groups who have helped me improve on what I’m doing.
“Volunteering has put my life back on track. It has made me a very happy man and it’s improved my life immensely. It’s a wonderful experience and I love it.”
Asked what advice Chris would give anyone who was sitting on the fence about getting involved, he said: “Take the opportunity on and don’t be frightened of it. Get involved in an area you’re interested and passionate about. You’ll just love every minute of it.”
To learn more about volunteering and to watch videos featuring volunteers from the Mornington Community Information and Support Centre, our emergency services and Meals on Wheels, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/volunteerlocally
MORNINGTON PENINSULA SHIRE
A: 2 Queen St, Mornington
A: 90 Besgrove St, Rosebud
A: 21 Marine Pde, Hastings
A: 1085 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Somerville
T: 1300 850 600
W: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Home
When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond for your jewellery, there are two main options: lab-grown or mined diamonds. While both types have their advantages and disadvantages, it's important to understand the differences between them before making a decision.
Mined diamonds are extracted from the earth, a process that can be both time-consuming and costly. These diamonds are priced accordingly, and their extraction can also have negative environmental impacts and ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of miners.
On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology that replicates the conditions under which diamonds naturally form in the earth. This process is typically less expensive than mining, and it has a significantly smaller environmental footprint. Lab-grown diamonds are also much cheaper, making them an ideal option for those on a budget.
Both types of diamonds can be equally beautiful and durable, with lab-grown diamonds often displaying fewer flaws than mined diamonds.
Ultimately, the choice between lab-grown and mined diamonds comes down to personal preference and values. At Diamond Coco, we offer unbiased advice and a choice between lab-grown or mined diamonds to ensure you find the perfect diamond for your jewellery. Call for an appointment.
DIAMOND COCO
A: Suite 6, 38A Main St, Mornington
T: 1300 230 630
W: www.diamondcoco.com.au
FB: diamondcoco.com.au
INSTA: diamond.coco.australia
Rosebud-based Clothes4U is a volunteer group transforming the lives of people in need on the Peninsula and further afield. Founded in 2013, the standalone service provides clothing, shoes, accessories and personal care items for women and men – all free of charge.
Clothes4U aims to raise the confidence and self-esteem of people who can’t afford quality clothing and accessories. Vice-president Melinda King said people come for clothing for everyday wear as well as court appearances, job and rental interviews, work experience and special occasions.
The service is funded by local, state and federal governments through community grants as well as donations from local benefactors and philanthropic organisations. Clothes4U accepts quality used and new clothing, shoes, scarfs, hats, manchester, jewellery, shaving kits for men and more. “We receive so many donations nowadays that we hold a sale day from 9am-3pm on the last Friday of every month where items are for sale at $5 each,” Melinda said.
A Vanuatu shoe-in
A Clothes4U member came into contact with Vanuatu fruit pickers one year. About 35 workers had arrived on the Peninsula with unsuitable shoes. They were invited to come to the shops where they were outfitted with suitable footwear. Soon after, they were given suitcases and backpacks full of clothing to send to their families in Vanuatu.
The next one is on Friday, April 28. Women in Business Mornington Peninsula is the latest organisation to support Clothes4U. The group raised $9000 on International Women’s Day at its Embrace Equity event at Butterfly Red Hill farm house and gallery, and this year’s recipients are Clothes4U and Women’s Spirit Project, which was formed in 2018 to inspire and empower women experiencing disadvantage to transform their lives through fitness, health and well-being activities.
Clothes4U has also received high-profile backing over the years. Rosie Batty, 2015 Australian of the Year and campaigner against family violence, opened the group’s first big shop in Rosebud in 2015.
TV news presenter Peter Mitchell opened the men’s shop in 2019 and wrote about the region’s homelessness and Clothes4U in his weekly newspaper column.
Clothes4U clients come from Vinnies,
SalvoCare, Southern Peninsula Community Support and NDIS agencies among others, but people not connected to such groups can also obtain clothing.
Melinda visited several schools the day we spoke to her. “We’re contacting groups after pandemic disruptions to let them know we can provide items for all people. Children are back at school with all the expense this entails and clothing is often the last thing mums can afford. We can help.”
Clothes4U opens on the last Saturday each month from 10am-1pm for students and workers. It provides Share the Dignity bags for women fleeing domestic violence, and baby bundles for new mothers. A donated van takes clothing to clients. Unused clothing goes to Recycle Australia to keep it out of landfill.
Clothes4U is open Tuesday to Friday 10am-2pm at Shops 5 and 6, Rosebud Central shopping centre, 35 Wannaeue Place, Rosebud, next to the library. To
appointment, call 0490 058 596.
Established in 1898 by the Mercy Sisters, Padua College is a vibrant learning community of academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care, where students are encouraged to discover and utilise their talents to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.
Comprised of three junior campuses (Year 7-9) at Mornington, Rosebud and Tyabb, and a senior campus (Year 10-12) at Mornington, Padua’s multicampus structure provides students with individual care within their smaller ‘House’ communities. Students also benefit from the extensive facilities of the larger college network and a greater range of subject and co-curricular offerings.
Excellent staff, smaller class sizes, and learning spaces designed to support the delivery of optimal education outcomes provide the perfect environment for students to excel in areas of curriculum, leadership and in the sporting, cultural
and religious life of the college. Padua’s learning and teaching framework is designed to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes though evidence-based teaching practices, and to inspire a lifelong love of learning. An engaging and inclusive curriculum, characterised by innovative and quality teaching and learning practices, provides for both
tertiary and vocational pathways.
In keeping with its Catholic, Mercy and Franciscan heritage, Padua offers an active social justice program which aligns with the college philosophy of developing the whole person in an environment of community and service and working for a just and peaceful world.
Visit www.padua.vic.edu.au to book
a campus tour and learn more about what Padua College can offer.
PADUA COLLEGE
A: 62 Oakbank Rd, Mornington
T: 5976 0100
A: 2 Inglewood Cres, Rosebud
T: 5982 9500
A: 1585 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Tyabb
T: 5978 2700
W: www.padua.vic.edu.au
Dromana Primary
environmental captain Charli is an example of how our next generation are going to make our world a better place.
Charli was appointed one of the four environmental captains for 2023 after an application and interview process back in late 2022. This gave her the summer holidays to prepare and hit the ground running in the first week back to start the 2023 schooling year.
Charli organised a time to meet the school leadership and presented an incredible argument to ‘green’ our classrooms through families donating an indoor plant to each classroom in order to
improve both the learning environment as well as the air quality of classrooms. This was no ordinary presentation – it was accompanied by incredible research and findings into the benefits of her idea for Dromana Primary as well as a wish for all students to greater understand the importance of caring for nature.
After the ‘green’ light from leadership, Charli then posted to the school community a compelling request to donate indoor plants, and the response was fantastic! The reach also prompted Peninsula businesses such as The Diggers Club to contribute to this fantastic idea.
Charli is indeed an incredible student and leader of Dromana Primary School and is now an environmental leader within our community.
LAUREN CHRISTIE, Dromana Primary School
Seaford House Sanctuary of Early Learning welcomes you to tour our luxurious homestead-style early learning centre. The spacious environments are filled with natural light and high ceilings. Seaford House has been established for one year and is the sister centre of Frankston and Mount Eliza House, which has been offering high-quality learning and care for many years.
At Seaford House our philosophy is made up of a child-led program incorporating interests, strengths and cultures, and learning through play. We cater to each child’s individual needs, as we understand that no child is alike and so no learning should be exactly alike. Our program includes weekly art sessions in the on-site studio,
mindfulness sessions at the very close Seaford Beach, bush kinder and zoo excursions, to name a few. The possibilities are limitless with our onsite minibus and the imagination of the children. We offer an extensive funded kindergarten program for three and four-year-old children with teachers who possess a wealth of experience and knowledge. Throughout the kindergarten program the children work towards being prepared for their school journey through emotional regulation, social skills, developing a strong sense of agency, and becoming confident learners.
Being. Belonging. Becoming.
SEAFORD HOUSE SANCTUARY OF EARLY LEARNING
A: 6-8 Govan St, Seaford
T: 8796 3000
W: www.seafordhouse.com.au
FB: seafordhouse
Each year since 1970, millions of people all over the world have come together on April 22 to take action for a greener, more equitable future for our planet. Known as Earth Day, it’s a reminder that regardless of where you are or what you do, you have the power to effect real change and be a champion for our home.
This year’s Earth Day theme is Invest in Our Planet and highlights the importance of dedicating our time, resources and energy to solving the climate crisis. Earthday.org, which describes itself as the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement, has come up with seven simple ways in which you can take part:
Plant trees or a pollinator garden. Trees are one of the most powerful tools to combat the climate crisis. Attend a tree planting day or donate to campaigns, such as Earthday.org’s The Canopy Project, to help reforestation efforts across the world. In your own garden you can also plant species native to your area to support populations of butterflies, bees and other
pollinating organisms critical to sustained biodiversity in our ecosystem.
Reduce your plastic consumption. Plastic pollution is one of the most significant environmental problems we face, and we must all work to reduce and ultimately end plastic pollution. Make a plan to reduce your plastic consumption using Earthday.org’s plastic calculator at www.earthday.org/plastic-pollutioncalculator-2/
Take part in advocacy. Educate yourself about the science behind climate change and show responsibility in addressing it by taking climate action to the next level. Send a letter to your MP or councillor and demand they do more to tackle the crisis.
Make sustainable fashion choices. Fast fashion has completely revolutionised the apparel industry, but not for the better. Learn about the detrimental impacts of fast fashion and the importance of sustainable fashion, and commit to responsible consumption.
Plan your own event. Whether it’s a community clean-up, march, teach-in, or rally, Earthday.org has
step-by-step instructions on how to organise your Earth Day activity in its Earth Day 2023 Action Toolkit at https://bit.ly/3Y2lJID. You can also use the official Earth Day map at https://bit.ly/3m8p2km to register any events you’re planning to hold.
Donate. By donating to a campaign supporting the environmental movement, you are not only making a difference, you’re empowering change and mobilising individuals to take part in building a better world for generations to come.
Activate on social media. Creating content for the world to see is critical in communicating the importance of climate action. Whether you create posters and banners, or plan/attend a march, rally, clean-up, or any other popular Earth Day event, be sure to post what you’re doing and tag #EarthDay and/ or #InvestInOurPlanet to spread awareness around the environmental movement and possibly be featured on Earthday.org’s social channels.
For more information on how to do Earth Day, check out the Earth Day toolkit and Earthday.org’s website at www.earthday.org/earth-day-2023/
The Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Easter Art Show is back and celebrating its 13th year. Running over the Easter long weekend from April 7-10, the show is supported by Belle Property, Blairgowrie, and raises money for the BYS rescue boat fleet, which helps junior, community and disabled sailing programs.
Feature artists 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. Cameron works predominantly with timber and steel and is heavily influenced by the natural environment. Dawn’s passion for the outdoors led her to want to draw and paint found objects, leaves, seeds, seaweed, shells, fruit and vegetables.
Angela is best known for her textural acrylic work capturing coastal vistas, colours, and the energy of the changing tides.
Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including the coveted People’s Choice award.
Tickets for the opening night function from 6.30pm on Friday, April 7, are available at https://www.trybooking.com/CFYGY. The show continues on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm, and Monday from 10am-2pm. Tickets cost $5 and are available at the door.
A: 2900 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie
T: 5925 960003
FB: byseasterartshow/
INSTA: bys.easterartshow
Easter and school holidays on the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston will be filled with events for families, art buffs and lovers of festivals. There are also plenty of local activities for all to enjoy. Check out the following pages and our Arts section and enjoy your Easter holidays.
Pick your own strawberries available daily from 10am - 4:30pm
Cafe open from 10am - 4pm Daily
Buy freshly picked strawberries daily from 10am - 5pm
Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm cafe serves mouth-watering strawberry themed desserts featuring our flagship dessert the Strawberry Temptation
U-Pick prices
$12 adult $6 child or $30 for a family of 2 adults 2 children
Each person entering the field gets a punnet of their own freshly picked strawberries to take home For daily updates follow our Facebook page @rockycreekstrawberryfarm for fruit availability and weather conditions
www.rockycreek.com.au
There’s no need to travel to Melbourne for your Easter entertainment – Dromana Estate is hosting the Melbourne Easter Show from April 7-9, with three days of non-stop entertainment and fun.
The Melbourne Easter Show is one of the only shows in Melbourne that offers free entry for families, meaning you get to enjoy a great day out – or three – for free. So just come and enjoy the event, and be part of something great.
One of the show’s most popular attractions is the Easter egg hunt. It’s the biggest in Melbourne and promises plenty of fun and chocolate treats for children of all ages. But that’s just one of the highlights. From traditional
amusement rides to roving entertainers, magicians and fairies, quiet activity zones and so much more, there is plenty to see and do for all age groups and requirements. With its wonderful carnival atmosphere and wide range of attractions and activities, the Melbourne Easter Show is sure to delight everyone looking to celebrate and enjoy the long weekend. And don’t forget to head to the Dromana Estate’s restaurant for a delicious meal followed by some outstanding wines in the estate’s beautiful surroundings.
DROMANA ESTATE
A: 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong
T: 5974 4400
W: www.dromanaestate.com.au
FB: DromanaEstate INSTA: dromanaestate
Rubi Mama is a brand-new Wine & Food Bar located in the Balnarring centre, offering fresh modern Australian shared style food alongside a great wine list featuring plenty of Peninsula wines and others worth drinking from around the state, country and world.
Rubi is sophisticated but totally unpretentious with a warm and local atmosphere. The owners say the formula is simple – be a place where people feel welcome, offer great wine and food at reasonable prices.
With plenty of gluten free, vegetarian, pescetarian and vegan options there’s something for everyone.
Rubi Mama has a lovely courtyard that is dog friendly and is the perfect place to while away an afternoon or evening
Open Wed – Sun, 11am – 11pm, for wine, food, and fun | Take Away Wed-Sun Book online www. rubimama.com.au or call P. 5926 1086
As we shift into autumn, the evenings begin to feel cooler – a reminder that we may need to check our wardrobes in preparation for chillier days to come. Luckily, Yo-Ko Original Boutique has you sorted, with autumnweight tops and dresses in stock and the fluffiest and softest winter-weight knits we have ever felt already arriving.
We are pleased to announce the arrival of two new labels this season: Brakeburn from the UK, which uses recycled and sustainable fabrics; and Scorzzo, a range of Spanish knitwear made in the EU. Other ‘tried and true’ labels at Yo-Ko that continue to be popular with our customers across all seasons are Orientique for dresses,
pants and tops; Vassalli for an amazing range of pants; Rasaleela for pants, tops and skirts; Kiik for dresses and accessories; Cafe Latte; and Miracle.
Yo-Ko also boasts a vast selection of accessories, and many pieces from local artisans. Markdowns on summer season’s clothing and footwear continue at up to 60 per cent in store.
For gift-giving made easy, pick up a voucher in store. Layby is available too.
YO-KO ORIGINAL BOUTIQUE
A: 33 Armstrongs Rd, Seaford
M: 0418 525 872
W: www.yokooriginal.com.au
FB: yokooriginal
INSTA: yokooriginal
Canadian Bay Calisthenics College is proud to have called the Mornington Peninsula home for the past 45 years.
Recognised by Calisthenics Victoria as a bronze leading club, the college has been embraced by the community as a welcoming, family-friendly and successful calisthenics organisation. We offer our classes in the Mount Eliza/Frankston area and are eager to welcome more families in 2023. With
classes for all ages – from adorable three-year-olds to fit and fabulous mature mums and everyone in between – the college caters for all ages and fitness levels.
We have an extensive, fully qualified coaching team with 12 homegrown level one coaches and many dedicated assistant coaches for all teams. We also coach solo/duo physical items, graceful solos, and exam medal classes.
We are incredibly proud to have two of our students, pictured left, who have been accepted to represent Victoria at the state team titles in Queensland in July: Ashlea, with her solo coach Ashlea Stone, and Emelia, with her coach Charlotte Ponchard. We know they will
represent both Victoria and Canadian Bay Calisthenics College with great skill and pride.
Calisthenics is the sport with something for everyone. Whether it’s exercises, apparatus items with rods and clubs, marching, dancing, singing, or drama, we have it all. Come and give it a go.
CANADIAN BAY CALISTHENICS COLLEGE
A: Mount Eliza
T: 0418 540 956
W: www.canadianbaycalisthenics.com
FB: Canadian Bay Calisthenics College
INSTA: canadianbaycalisthenicscollege/
"Calisthenics is the sport with performing at its heart. It offers a unique combination of dancing, singing, gymnastics and technical skill, developing strong, confident leaders through friendship and teamwork. Calisthenics inspires performers to take centre stage today, and throughout their lives." -
Victoria
FOR ALL INQUIRIES:
The Lions Club of Mornington is looking to the community to make this month’s Mornington Book Fair another huge success. To be held at The Studio on April 15-16, the annual fair is the perfect opportunity for you to pick up a bargain while supporting your community.
Unless specified, all books will be on sale for $2, and club members have again nominated The Bays Hospital as the recipient of proceeds from the fair’s gold coin entry for its state-of-the art comprehensive cancer centre.
The club thanked everyone who has been supporting the fair. “Without the wide-ranging donation of books and the tireless work by the members of the Mornington Lions and friends, this mammoth book fair could not happen.”
Whether you’re a regular book fair follower or a new book-lover, you’ll find a warm welcome as well as plenty of great reading material at the Mornington Book Fair.
Art Red Hill is back with a full inperson live event this year at Red Hill Consolidated School.
The show will run from Friday, May 5, over the weekend of May 6-7.
Art Red Hill is a highlight on the arts calendar on the Peninsula. The show has been running for more than 40 years and features art for sale across a wide range of formats, including oil and watercolour paintings, prints, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass and found items. In addition to traditional artworks, there will also be a selection of crafted items including jewellery, knitted wear, textiles and other wearable art.
The show is a great family event. Little ones can explore their own creativity in the children’s tent, which will be full of fun activities in which they can take part.
The opening night on Friday, May 5, held in the Red Hill
Consolidated School hall, is always a highly anticipated social event. This is a chance to view and buy the art early, but also to connect with other members of the community and enjoy local wines, food and live music. Follow Art Red Hill on Instagram or Facebook for more details and ticket information. In addition to the live show, art will be simultaneously available for sale online at www.gallery247.com.au
All proceeds raised from Art Red Hill will go towards the Red Hill Consolidated School for essential educational tools, support and upgrades. Art Red Hill is run by volunteers and kindly supported by local sponsors, the major being RT Edgar Real Estate.
RED HILL CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL
A: 341 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill
W: www.artredhill.redhillcs.vic.edu.au
FB: ArtRedHill
INSTA: artredhill
With thought-provoking performances, raucous comedy, dazzling installations, striking visual arts and fun for the whole family, next month’s South Side Festival will delight, challenge and entertain.
South Side’s LuminoCity features three immersive experiences that will take you on a journey from an interactive sea to a dazzling installation to an underground digital playground featuring White Night favourites Skunk Control, lighting superstars Mandylights, and South Australia’s sensational Patch Theatre.
Jazz singer, cabaret artist and gender transcendent diva Mama Alto will debut That Song Changed My Life, and art collective Big Bao brings Meld, an immersive show of live music, movement, dance and lighting. Scratch Arts will take you on a futuristic journey in Liminal Treats, and actor/comedian Damien Warren-Smith and The Mighty Boosh director Cal McCrystal prove one man can rule the stage in Garry Starr Performs Everything Academy Award-winner Shaun Tan will exhibit his
rarely seen visual arts series Rules of Summer, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Road Show will hit the Frankston Arts Centre stage. There will be dance parties in shipping containers, augmented reality art galleries, beautiful visual arts installations, torchlight street art tours, and even an all-ages metal and hardcore gig. Festival producer Freyja Macfarlane said she was “so thrilled” with the success of South Side’s first outing last year. “The super-positive responses from audiences and the creatives involved gave us great inspiration and drive to continue to support the awesome local scene and bring innovative programming to Frankston,” Ms Macfarlane said. “The 2023 program is jam-packed with such a diverse range of events – you could be watching roller derby one night then submerging yourself in a surrealist interactive performance inside a light show the next.”
Multi-art performer Joseph ‘Jof’ O’Farrell’s 10 Minute Dance Parties is a celebration of art and colour, costume and community, and the universal nature of
dance. “This work has toured all over the world, and it means a lot to bring it back to my home town,” Mr O’Farrell said.
Karul Projects and choreographer Thomas E.S. Kelly will present Silence, a First Nations Australian work. “Silence interprets what a 250-plus-year-long denial of meaningful listening to First Nations people has done to the psyche of the people and land,” Mr Kelly said.
Frankston City Council Mayor Nathan Conroy said that after an amazing debut with sell-out shows in 2022, South Side Festival was ready to deliver its new nine-day program of exciting events and shows. “We are driven to stimulate imaginations, transform perceptions, excite and entice, and South Side Festival’s dynamic programming delivers on all counts,” Cr Conroy said.
South Side Festival, which is supported by Frankston City Council and sponsored by EastLink, runs from May 5-14. For tickets and more information, go to www.southsidefestival.com.au
5-14 MAY 2023
SOUTHSIDEFESTIVAL.COM.AU
If you haven’t yet heard The Bel Canto Choir, with their conductor Margaret Brown, the first concert of their 2023 series will give you the perfect opportunity to experience their magic. Back to the Baroque will feature two complete works: Come Ye Sons of Art by Henry Purcell, and Gloria RV 589 by Antonio Vivaldi.
The choir would love you to join them at The Village Uniting Church, 93 Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza on Sunday, May 7, at 2.30pm as they begin their celebration of 20 years of making music together.
Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and students; primary school students free. Tickets are available through trybooking.com/CGUKD, with limited tickets for sale at the door on the day.
THE BEL CANTO CHOIR
A: Mount Eliza
T: 0408 355 589
W: www.thebelcantochoirmteliza.com.au
www.thebelcantochoirmteliza.com.au
Peninsula Music Society is delighted to have Ensemble Liaison, one of Australia’s leading internationally acclaimed piano trios, perform at the Peninsula Community Theatre in Mornington on Saturday, May 13, at 7.30pm.
Described by Limelight magazine as a “national treasure”, Ensemble Liaison is joined by triple-Grammyaward-winning flautist Tim Munro.
presents “Back to the Baroque”
featuring Come Ye Sons of Art – Purcell & Gloria RV589 – Vivaldi
- Conductor Margaret Brown
Sunday 7th May 2023, 2.30pm
The Village Uniting Church - 93 Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza
Admission: $25 Adult/$20 Concession (Seniors, Students)
Primary School Students no charge
Tickets www.trybooking.com/CGUKD
The program includes Christopher Cerrone’s New Addresses, inspired by the poetry of Kenneth Koch; Martin Wesley-Smith’s DB, a tribute to Don Banks; and, reflecting their complicated love story, the program concludes with Clara Schumann’s Three Romances and Johannes Brahms’ Piano Trio in B major.
Tickets: adult $55, senior/pensioner $50, under-30 years $25, and school students free. For further information and bookings, go to the PMS website https://pmsmusic. asn.au
Sustainable. Ethical. Responsible.
Trierra Earth Day Festival is an event connecting conscious consumers with responsible brands, educational workshops, and lifestyle activations all in the spirit of doing better for the earth.
trierra.com.au
Saturday 22 April, 2023 10.00am – 2.00pm
Mornington Park Pavilion
Cnr Flinders Dr & Esplanade, Mornington VIC
Entry is a gold coin donation to earthday.org
The Women in Super Mother’s Day Classic is Australia’s most inspirational, cause-driven community event. Every year, thousands of Australians come together on Mother’s Day to get active for breast cancer research. Its aim is to unite and inspire the community, create a fun and engaging event experience, celebrate and remember those touched by breast cancer, and raise lifesaving money for research. This year, Moonah Links is the proud host of the one and only Mornington Peninsula event. We are offering three options that all involve walking or running through our award-winning golf courses:
Sublime Landscapes and Beautiful Birds an exhibition featuring Laurel Foenander and Sara Paxton
Opening 1.00pm Sat 8 April - meet the artists
Exhibition running until May 7
• A 15.5km walk across both the Open and Legend's golf courses
Poppy Turner, 8, and her mum, CWA Peninsula Belles branch president Marnie Turner, are getting ready for the CWA’s annual arts and crafts exhibition in late April. Poppy will enter her artwork.
• A 15.5km run across both the Open and Legend's golf courses
• A 7km walk across the Legend's golf course. There will also be live music, market stalls, a barbecue and a silent auction, with all proceeds going towards breast cancer research. Register at www. mothersdayclassic.com.au/ vic-mornington-peninsula
MOONAH LINKS RESORT
A: 55 Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal T: 5988 2000 W: www.moonahlinks. com.au
FB: moonahlinksresort INSTA: moonahlinks
Hours: Thurs-Sat 10am to 4pm | Sun 11am to 3pm
242 Thompson Ave, Cowes
P. 5952 3722 | E. noelle@mingaragallery.com.au
www.mingaragallery.com.au
Significant paintings in ochre from the Kimberley's Red Rock Art and glowing acrylics from the Utopia region of Central Australia demonstrate two very different styles of Aboriginal art at Everywhen Artspace this month.
In 1993 former Museum Victoria exhibitions officer Kevin Kelly became manager of Waringarri Arts, Kununurra. Here he worked with Rover Thomas, Queenie McKenzie and other famous founding Kimberley artists. In 1997, Kelly and his wife Jenny established Red Rock Art to provide a space for artists not represented by the Kimberley's community art facilities. Until 2016, Red Rock Art worked with up to 40 artists from the Great Sandy Desert to Wave Hill – in effect creating a parallel school of Kimberley ochre painting. Included in Everywhen's exhibition are rare works by Jimmy McKenzie, Jock Mosquito, Lloyd
Kwilla, Nancy Noonju, Nellie Gordon and Ned Johns.
In contrast to the earth-toned Kimberley works, paintings by the women artists of Utopia, 230km northeast of Alice Springs, have become famous for their vibrant colour. Subjects include women’s ceremonies, plants used for bush medicine and food, and representations of important women's sites. Included here are senior artists Jeannie Mills Pwerle and Lizzie Moss Pwerle and younger painters Belinda and Janet Golder Kngwarreye, Bernadine Kemarre, Charmaine Pwerle, Rochelle Bird Mbitjana and Selina Teece Pwerle.
West meets East runs from April 8-24.
EVERYWHEN ARTSPACE
A: 39 Cook St, Flinders
Open: daily 11am-4pm
T: 5989 0496
W: www.everywhenart.com.au
Sure, mastering traditional homemaking skills continues to be a cornerstone –cooking, craft, knitting and the like – but CWA has always worked to improve the lives of women, children and families.
It started with the organisation advocating for maternal health centres in the 1950s –still an issue – all the way through to advocating for marriage equality and even road safety, Peninsula Belles branch president Marnie Turner said.
“Seven branches from Rosebud to Pearcedale and 150 members aged from youngsters to women in their 90s reflect our strength,” Marnie said. “CWA is also about friendship and fellowship, countering social isolation and connecting communities. And teaching people valuable craft and cooking skills.”
The Peninsula group’s annual Creative Arts Exhibition marks its 50th anniversary this month. Peninsula Community Theatre in Wilsons Rd, Mornington, will be a hive of activity from 10am-4pm on Saturday and Sunday April 29 and 30. Jams, cakes, crochet, needlework and photography will be among hotly contested entries. Bring some coins for raffles. As you’d expect, refreshments will be available. Scones!
Entry is $8 for adults, with children under 14 free of charge if accompanied by an adult. Find details on Facebook and Instagram @CWAMorningtonPeninsula
Women in Business celebrate
IWD: Women in Business Mornington Peninsula held an excellent International Women’s Day at Butterfly, Red Hill. More than 150 people enjoyed guest speakers including Kayla Cartledge and Jane McCann, MC Sarah Race, and a performance by Heidi Luckhurst. More than $5000 was raised for Clothes4U and Women’s Spirit Project. Women in Business thanked the committee for its untiring efforts and the many donors and sponsors. Photos: Clodagh Jane Photography
Life of a refugee: Frankston North Rotary hosted its eighth International Women’s Day breakfast at the Mornington Racing Club on March 1 with Mount Eliza and Mount Martha Rotary clubs. Shabnam Safa, a community development practitioner and an emerging leader in the Afghan Australian community, spoke about her life in Afghanistan and being a refugee to Australia. Suzanne Nielson, a professor of addiction and the director of Monash Addiction Centre, spoke of her work in addiction treatment in Australia and the UK. More than 300 people attended the breakfast, including many secondary students. The club thanked its sponsors, the speakers, Judi McKee and her organising committee, and all who supported the breakfast – especially the parking gang.
Gracing the stage in Frankston Arts Centre’s Cube 37 next month is internationally renowned comedian Damien Warren-Smith. Garry Starr Performs Everything is a onehour show combining different theatre styles as Damien's character and clown Garry Starr takes it upon himself to 'save' the theatre industry.
At times wearing not much other than an Elizabethan ruff, Damien described Garry Starr as the most embarrassing form of himself. Jokes translate differently from audience to audience, but there is something fun for everyone to enjoy. "I'm just wanting people to have a really good time,” he said. “It's not in any way divisive or political, just unabandoned joy."
Although Garry Starr attempts to 'save the performing arts', Damien doesn't believe theatre is going anywhere any time soon, but a culture shift needs to occur to make it really thrive. "People don't really write about it. When I open up a newspaper, the culture section will talk about music, books and film but they don't have comedy and theatre. It's just not embedded in our culture here because you just don't think of it."
Directed by Cal McCrystal (Paddington 1&2, The Mighty Boosh, The Amazing Spider-man), this award-winning performance has won numerous awards at the Sydney Fringe and Adelaide Fringe festivals.
Garry Starr Performs Everything comes to Frankston on Saturday, May 13, as part of the South Side Festival and the 2023 FAC Theatre Season. Tickets are available online at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060.
FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE
A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston T: 9784 1060
W: www.thefac.com.au
FB: FrankstonArtsCentre INSTA: the_fac
Western Port Craft Expo on Saturday, April 22, features a beanie-knitting competition. Entries will include traditional striped, tasselled and creative footy beanies. Beanies of wool, sewn felt or crocheted with cottons and creative adornments are welcome.
Entry fee is $5 a person with no restriction on entries. Beanies can be for sale or donated to needy families after the expo. Prizes include $100 for the People’s Choice winner; a meal for two at Hastings Club for the best footy beanie; and a $70 voucher for sewing classes from Forever Four in Tyabb for the most creative.
The expo features the work of spinners, weavers, rugmakers, papermakers, milliners, leatherworkers and more, with demonstrations and ‘have a go’ sessions. The event runs from 10am-4pm at Hastings Community Hub, 1973 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Hastings. Entry is $5 for adults and $2 for children. For more information, go to www. wpcraftexpo.com or call convener Sandra Beckett on 5979 1237.
THURS APRIL 6 – MONDAY APRIL 10
Frankston Rotary Art show: Seaford Community Centre, Station St, Seaford; returning after 30-year break, stunning gala night April 6, proceeds to help Frankston SES unit buy new 4X4; www.frankstonrotaryartshow.com.au
FRIDAY APRIL 7 – SUNDAY APRIL 9
Friday April 7, tickets available thru Trybooking at www.trybooking.com/ CFYGY; general admission available Saturday, April 8 and Sunday, April 9, 10am5pm and Monday, April 10, 10am-2pm; general admission cost $5, www.facebook.com/byseasterartshow
www.instagram.com/bys. easterartshow
MONDAY APRIL 10
THURSDAY APRIL 13
Southern Peninsula VIEW monthly meeting: 10am, Rosebud Country Club, 207 Boneo Rd, Rosebud; interesting speaker followed by lunch in the bistro; $5, contact secretary Robyn southernpeninsula.view@gmail.com or visit www.view.org.au
THURS APRIL 13 -SAT APRIL 22
SATURDAY APRIL 22
Food Yard Night Market: 5-8pm, 63A Yuilles Rd, Mornington; up to 12 street food and drink trucks from around the world, free entry with onsite parking, great night out for family and friends; www.unrivalledevents.com.au/foodyard
SAT APRIL 22 - SAT MAY 6
Melbourne Easter Show: 10am9pm daily; Dromana Estate, 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong; join us for a fun-filled day out with a wide range of children’s activities, interactive demonstrations, roving entertainers, carnival rides, Easter egg hunts and much, much more; free entry, www.melbourneeastershow.com.au
FRIDAY APRIL 7 - MONDAY APRIL 10
Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Easter
Art Show 2023: 2900 Point Nepean Rd, Blairgowrie; opening night function
Mt Martha South Beach Market: spectacular boutique street food/drink truck and handmade makers market overlooking the ocean, Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha, 10am-2pm, www.unrivalledevents.com.au/southbeach-market
Luminosity: The Briars, 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha; immersive theatrical night walk complemented by free projection trail, live music and food trucks; from $33, children under 3 free, www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ luminosity-the-briars-by-night-tickets573321338557?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
SAT APRIL 15 & SUNDAY APRIL 16
Mornington Lions Annual Charity Book Fair: 9am-5pm each day, The Studio, cnr Wilsons Rd and Nepean Highway, Mornington; all books $2, specialist books POA; gold coin entry
Manyung Gallery Mt Eliza: Artist Fiona Chandler's solo exhibition: titled ‘I like your hyperbole ‘lights up Manyung Gallery Mt Eliza. As part of the Mornington Peninsula DRIFT Festival, there will be drinks and music ON Saturday April 22 to launch this interesting exhibition created by Fiona. We welcome your company over the weekend and throughout the exhibition which runs until May 6. For artwork enquiries or to request a preview catalogue, please contact by text 0413 468 917 or email mteliza@manyunggallery.com.au
Trierra Earth Day Festival: 10am2pm, Mornington Park Pavilion, Cnr Flinders Dr & Esplanade, Mornington; connecting conscious consumers with responsible brands, educational workshops, and lifestyle activations all in the spirit of doing better for the Earth; entry by gold coin donation to earthday.org; https://trierra.com.au/
SUNDAY APRIL 23
Discovery Day Come'N Try Planting: 10am-noon, McCrae Rotunda, McCrae foreshore, Point Nepean Rd opposite Coburn Ave, McCrae; meet McCrae Homestead Coastal Group volunteers to learn how and why they care for this picturesque foreshore; plant your own species identified by a personalised plant guard and take home a native plant and goodie bag; children must be accompanied by an adult; free event but bookings essential at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/comen-tryplanting-discovery-day-tickets-5THURS
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, majority of events at Continental Sorrento; https:// sorrentowritersfestival.com.au/
SATURDAY APRIL 29
Native plants sale: 10am-3.30pm, The Briars, 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha; native and indigenous plants from local and regional growers; includes workshops on plant maintenance and propagation, book stall and kids’ corner; free entry, www.apsmorningtonpeninsula.org
FRIDAY MAY 5- SUNDAY MAY 7
SUNDAY MAY
Art Red Hill: Red Hill Consolidated School, 341 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill; opening night Friday, May 5, 6.30pm start for VIP, 7pm for general admission; show open Saturday and Sunday 10am4pm; updates at @artredhill
FRIDAY MAY 5 – SUNDAY MAY 14
South Side Festival: inaugural festival comes to life with fantastical experiences and feature artists and performances/events in venues across Frankston; for tickets and more information, go to www. southsidefestival.com.au
Mornington Wedding Expo: 10am3pm, Mornington Racecourse, 320 Racecourse Rd, Mornington; mingle with more than 70 of Mornington’s premier wedding experts at the biggest expo outside of Melbourne city; free event; book tickets at www. morningtonweddingexpos.com.au
SUNDAY MAY 14
Mother’s Day Classic: starting 8am, Peppers Moonah Links Resort, 55 Peter Thompson Drive, Fingal; every year, thousands of Australians come together on Mother’s Day to get active for breast cancer research; this year join us at Moonah Links Resort for fun run, silent auction, barbecue, markets, live music and face painting. www.mothersdayclassic.com. au/vic-mornington-peninsula
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With an estimated four in 10 Australians experiencing insufficient sleep each night, the Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro is a white noise machine on a mission to send in the sandman. Portable, user-friendly and customisable, the Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro is a dream come true for those of us who spend our nights tossing and turning.
Whether you prefer white noise, pink noise, brown noise, the gentle sound of rain pattering on the roof, or the red spectrum light that helps stimulate the body’s production of melatonin – the hormone responsible for telling us it’s time for sleep – the Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro offers a soothing sound and light combination to suit even the most challenging sleeper. Multiple night light colours and two rainbow settings will help settle children with a fear of darkness or
Olieve and Olie’s natural skincare is handcrafted here on the Mornington Peninsula, and they’ve got you sorted for soft and hydrated skin this autumn. For more than 20 years, their family business has helped customers achieve healthier skin while supporting local suppliers. Utilising Australian extra virgin olive oil and other skin superfoods in their luxe products helps to boost hydration and healing benefits. Just what your skin requires as we enter the cooler months.
Their Hand & Body Wash will leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed. It provides a deep cleansing effect while protecting and nourishing your skin. This all-rounder product also makes for a lush shampoo and facial cleanser. Plus, it won’t dry out your skin. Instead, it leaves your skin feeling soft and clean as it puts the moisture back into your skin and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Scented with only essential oils, their wash provides therapeutic benefits including natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Choose from Lavender & Rose Geranium, Wild Lemon Myrtle, Bergamot, Clary Safe & Geranium, and Peppermint, Spearmint & Teatree. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin so it’s perfect for the whole family to use. A 500ml pump bottle beside the sink in their signature black and white branding complements any décor – with refill sizes available.
Visit their factory shopfront from 9am-4pm on weekdays or Saturday 10am-2pm; it’s closed on public holidays and Sundays.
You can shop their full range online or find your nearest stockist at olieveandolie.com.au
separation anxiety at sleep time, and Nodiee’s 34 soothing sounds and built-in lullabies will help you create the perfect soundtrack for their travels through Dreamland.
Parents can also use the clever sleep trainer capability to create an ‘OK to wake’ program with a light that helps little ones understand when to get out of bed and start the day. Nodiee also features a child-lock to prevent little fingers from accidentally changing the settings.
For people who prefer a little noise to help them drift off to sleep, or shift workers who need to ignore household noise during the day, Nodiee is a perfect addition to any bedroom. It’s also portable, with a rechargeable battery that’s designed to last for up to 10 hours so you can enjoy a restful night on your travels.
Mornington Peninsula Magazine has a Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro, valued at $119.95, to give away. To enter, see Page 90.
Mount Martha brothers Joel and Zac Perna are making waves in the global pyjama industry and competing with Aussie giants with their emerging company Slouch Potato. Starting with zero experience and the dream of providing everyone with unique, fun and comfortable clothing, Joel and Zac launched Slouch Potato during the Covid lockdown.
“Growing up, we both always wore pyjamas and looked forward to the feeling of comfort at the end of the day,” Joel said. “The fun patterns are our way of expressing our own weirdness and unique personalities through our designs.”
Starting with no external financing and only an idea, the brothers started from absolute scratch to make their dream a reality. Zac, 27, continued his work as a social media presence in the fitness industry and Joel, 28, shut down his carpentry business in the pursuit of making Slouch Potato a success. What’s fascinating about this scenario is not the idea itself but the fact that both Joel and Zac had no experience in the clothing industry and were left to build the business from the ground up in what they said was the “steepest learning curve” they’d ever encountered. They began sourcing the
highest quality fabrics from Tencel and Modal and high-end fashion makers from Melbourne to bring their idea to life over a tough but exciting 16-month period. The result was ethically made loungewear that’s softer than silk and cooler than linen in their signature style.
They began with pyjama pants in four designs that represented their favourite childhood snacks: popcorn, cookies, cereal, and ice-cream. After more than a year of anticipation, fear, excitement and turmoil, they launched their range on October 6, 2021, and sold out on their first day, selling almost six figures worth of their premium loungewear.
Slouch Potato is now up to its fifth range drop after selling out of every design previously made. The designs are all limited and consistently resemble the iconic and fun ‘slouch’ style and cute characters. The brand has garnered a reach in the millions on social media, and on top of the brothers’ efforts to “win the Aussie market”, they have also tapped into a global market, distributing their loungewear all over the world.
If you haven’t tried Slouch Potato yet, you definitely need to see what the hype is all about.
Mother’s Day is traditionally a time of great happiness as we celebrate our mums, but for women who have miscarried it can be especially difficult. National Miscarriage Awareness Day is a remembrance day for anyone who has been affected by miscarriage, and is held on the first Sunday in May – a week before Mother’s Day. This year it will be marked by a
remembrance event hosted by Miscarriage Information Support Service that will be held at Bunurong Memorial Park on Sunday, May 7. MISS aims to improve mental health outcomes after miscarriage – the loss of a baby before 20 weeks of pregnancy – by encouraging women and men to seek support if needed and to grieve their loss. MISS provides free lemon ribbon pins, pictured top right, care package bags after miscarriage, and forget-me-not seeds to plant on National Miscarriage Awareness Day.
Saying “I’m sorry” and acknowledging the person’s loss is the best way for
Sunday 7th May 2023
National Miscarriage Awareness Day is a remembrance day for anyone who has been affected by miscarriage.
Miscarriage Information Support Service (MISS) is a community support service providing information and resources to support women, men, partners and families, who have lost a baby through miscarriage. For more information visit: www.miss.org.au
Email: info@miss.org.au
family and friends to respond to miscarriage, and to let the person know that you are there for them. Never respond with “At least . . .” because this minimises the person’s loss.
To register for the event for National Miscarriage Awareness Day or to be sent some lemon ribbons or seeds, please email info@miss.org.au or visit www. miss.org.au
“First Sunday in May annually”
Flinders Dental can take care of all your general dental needs.
At Flinders, all our dental professionals are highly skilled and put our patient’s needs first. Focusing on preventative care and minimal intervention, Flinders Dental may just be the move you need to make.
Children unsure about the dentist? We have clinicians who have over 5 years of experience making dental visits a positive and safe environment for children to grow to trust and look forward to their dental visit.
If you’re wondering when the best time is to start orthodontic treatment for your child, Dr Peter Scott recommends between ages seven and nine because some children benefit greatly from early intervention. Wearing certain appliances may reduce a child’s time in braces later and may also make treatment more effective.
And if you’re concerned about whether your child will still be able to enjoy the activities they love, rest assured Dr Scott and the team take the time to get to know you and your family to determine the most appropriate treatment option. Some appliances are removable, and some stay fixed in place. The team here consider the individual and what’s right for them.
Many adults are now choosing to improve their smiles later in life. There is a range of aesthetic options available here to suit your lifestyle, including clear braces and aligners (Invisalign and Spark).
To better service the Frankston and Peninsula region, the practice has grown and welcomes Dr Peter Tran. Dr Tran is a University of Melbourne graduate and has a special interest in early treatment and clear aligner therapy. He is exceptionally great with children and can sometimes be found making balloon animals rather than bending wire!
DR PETER SCOTT & ASSOCIATES
A: 13 Beach St, Frankston
T: 9783 4511
W: www.drpeterscottorthodontist. com.au
FB: drpeterscottorthodontist
Contraception allows people to choose when and if they get pregnant so they can finish schooling, get a job or maintain current employment. They may also have completed their families and not want any more children.
In addition to condoms, the pill and the injectable hormone, there are longer-term options that you can ‘set and forget’ for a few years and have them removed easily by your doctor when you choose.
There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Hormonal IUDs are T-shaped pieces of plastic that a doctor can place in your uterus. They contain a hormone that prevents pregnancy. They are also used as treatment for
heavy periods, making them lighter. Mirena and the lower dose Kyleena both last five years.
Copper IUDs are mostly made of plastic with a thin copper wire wrapped around them. Copper is toxic to both eggs and sperm, thereby preventing pregnancy. They last five to 10 years.
Implanon is a little plastic matchstick about 4cm long that a doctor can put in your arm using local anaesthetic in the clinic. Once in place, Implanon releases a small amount of progestin – a hormone that changes the lining of your uterus so pregnancy can’t occur – every day. It lasts three years.
SEXUAL HEALTH OPTIONS
A: 89 Young St, Frankston T: 8725 0172
W: www.sexualhealthoptions.com.au
Aries: It’s a ‘me, myself and I’ month for Aries. Four planets are lined up in your Zodiac Sign calling for a personal overhaul. You need to heal any unresolved personal issues, particularly any matters connected to home and family. You are your own personal ally this month
Taurus: The planet Uranus could provide some surprises in your financial affairs and your love life. You can expect the unexpected in these areas this month. On a positive note, you could be taken aback by a monetary gift. Or you may be startled by an attempted scam.
Gemini: April is a gala month for Geminis. The social sector of your Solar Chart is lit up like a beacon this month. This could herald the need for work networking as you build a bridge for future ambitions. Or your personal life may involve celebrations. This is a fend and befriend month.
by Stephanie JohnsonCancer: Are you heading in the right direction when it comes to work, marriage, parenthood and your public persona? April sees changes in these areas of your life. Slowly but surely you can incorporate changes that boost your health and happiness, and give you a sense of purpose
Leo: April sees you dream of escaping to another world. You may plan a trip to a foreign land somewhere on your bucket list. If this is not feasible then you could read a book that transports you to another world, or watch a nature documentary of a far-flung region.
Virgo: You are well aware of cycles this month. This is because something has triggered your awareness. April sees these changes in your life lead to a deepening awareness of your own situation, and perhaps the need to attempt to be in control of some of those changes.
Libra: You know how to put others at their ease, and are one of the most hospitable signs of the Zodiac. This month sees your focus on others at a peak, particularly anyone connected to your marriage. Your partner, or a significant Aries in your life, is front and centre right now.
Scorpio: Health and well-being are front and foremost. Time management at work and home may come under the microscope. So may the issue of personal boundaries. It’s time to pause and reflect on your daily life and whether or not you have a healthy attitude to work, home and other areas of life.
Sagittarius: It’s time for some fun! You may have responsibilities, but you can also make time for your own creative and fun-filled pursuits. You need to set aside some time for activities that spark endorphins – chilling in nature, a creative or artistic project, social celebrations, or an action-packed pastime.
Capricorn: Home and family are centre stage this month. Your living situation may need attention: home maintenance, renovation, or perhaps a move. This is not about you clearing up other people’s messes, but rather you providing support for those who share your household. Your private life demands attention.
Aquarius: Short courses and short journeys are the highlight of April. You are ready for change, and the first step is to create opportunities for exploring what these changes might involve. A short journey away from daily responsibilities can provide a fresh perspective. Short courses can be a source of inspiration.
Pisces: Money matters surface in April. This is your month to review your financial health, your personal spending and saving habits and your incomeearning potential. It’s also possible that you need to review your own sense of self-worth. You need to value yourself no matter what the external influences.
As a Frankston resident, Kelvin Oldridge has situated his legal practice in Sandringham to provide accessibility for clients from the city, bayside and the Peninsula.
With qualifications in building and law — B.Build (RMIT) and LL.B (Hons University of London) — Kelvin’s advice is complemented by his building experience and his understanding of the needs of clients from the building and construction industry.
Kelvin regularly provides a legal and advisory service to construction and project management businesses, property developers, contractors and insurance companies, including drafting and amending contracts, standard forms of construction and development contracts in Australia and including the Australia Standards suite of contracts. He also provides commercial advice and support to clients in arbitration, litigation and the defence of insurance claims.
KO CONSTRUCTION LAW
T: 9598 6444
W: www.kolaw.com.au
There’s a growing appetite within the Mornington Peninsula’s hospitality industry to employ people with disability off the back of pandemic-driven workforce challenges.
That’s according to Tourism Accommodation Australia (Victoria) CEO Dougal Hollis, who said using this untapped workforce to fill gaps during Covid had set a precedent for the industry. “It makes sense that a hotel’s workforce is as diverse as the community that it serves,” Mr Hollis said. “There are numerous examples of people with a disability working in hotels and enhancing hospitality experiences for guests. These contributions are highly valued and definitely something operators are keen to encourage more of.”
Disability supported employment service Wallara, whose cafe at Sages Cottage Farm in Baxter is run by people with disabilities, has seen a real demand for social enterprises within the hospitality industry as restaurants, cafes and hotels look to this untapped workforce for employees. “The pandemic resulted in a real boom in demand for these types of employment placements for people with disability as employers look
more broadly to solve their labour shortages,” Wallara CEO Phil Hayes-Brown said. “We are seeing this in our own services as well as we expand with new cafes in Frankston, Keysborough, Dandenong and Seaford. Village Baxter, a retirement village with 700 residents, has also just appointed us to run their on-site café. We are also currently in talks with Frankston RSL, who are keen to take on some of our supported employees, providing even more employment opportunities for this more than capable cohort.
“People with additional needs, predominantly intellectual disabilities, often struggle to find suitable employment with the ongoing supports they require, so it is critical for businesses to partner with the right social enterprises to ensure these positions can be retained."
Wallara client Caleb (CJ) Berechree said he loved working at Village Baxter because of the interactions with customers and the boost it gave his confidence. "My favourite thing would be to learn how the chefs do it, because I want to be a chef,” CJ said. “I love it for the atmosphere, and I love it because of the customers. I can express myself more, and it is helping me to grow my confidence.”
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.
We try to confirm all markets with organisers before publication, however, late changes can occur.
For FREE inclusion online and in print, please email market details to publishing@mpmag.com.au by the 15th of each month.
EVERY DAY
Dromana Indoor Market: over 80 indoor stalls to peruse, plus hairdresser, 110 Nepean Highway, Dromana (down from Aldi), 10am-5pm
Flock of Seagulls: indoor market, art gallery and café, 2211 Point Nepean Road, Rye, 10am-4pm daily Market 3196: a range of over 300 indoor stalls plus café, something for everyone. 279 Wells Rd, Chelsea Heights, 10am-5pm
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Main St, Mornington: 9am-3pm between Cromwell and Albert streets
EVERY THURSDAY
High St, Hastings: 9am-1pm, 40+ stalls, everything homemade, home-grown & crafted
Plaza Palooza: 9am-4pm, Langwarrin Plaza, Langwarrin
EVERY SUNDAY
Bittern: 8am-1pm, 70+ stalls, Frankston-Flinders Rd, Bittern station Frankston: 8am-1pm, Sherlock & Hay carpark, Young St, Frankston
SATURDAY APRIL 1
Red Hill Community Market: 8am-2pm, Red Hill Recreation Reserve
Rye Rotary Foreshore Market: 7am-12noon, Pt Nepean Rd, Rye near the pier
SUNDAY APRIL 2
Boneo Lions Club Sunday Market: First Sunday of every month, 7am-1pm. Rosebud foreshore opposite Fourth Ave, something for everything
Main St Preloved & Makers Market: 9am-1pm, 61a Main St, Mornington, first ever market day, support circular fashion, www. mainstreetpreloved.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
SATURDAY APRIL 8
Crib Point Community Market: second Saturday of month, indoor & outdoor stalls. Cribby Koala Treasure Hunt for kids. 9am1pm, Crib Point Community House, 7 Park Rd, Crib Point Little Birdie Market: 10am-2pm, Carrum Foreshore Reserve, 640 Nepean Highway Carrum; indoor mini pop-up market, music, food and stalls, second Saturday of month, https://www.facebook.com/ littlebirdiemarket
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), 8am-1pm, 120+ stalls, handmade and new items, produce and plants
MONDAY APRIL 10
Mt Martha South Beach Market: spectacular boutique street food/drink truck and handmade makers market overlooking the ocean, Mount Martha House Lawn, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha, 10am-2pm, https://www.unrivalledevents.com.au/south-beachmarket
SATURDAY APRIL 15
Boneo Community Market: third Saturday of the month, 8amnoon; cnr Boneo and Limestone roads
Emu Plains Market: Emu Plains Reserve, Balnarring Racecourse, Balnarring, 9am-2pm www.emuplainsmarket.com.au
Pearcedale Market: third Saturday of month, 8am-noon, 710 Baxter-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale
SUNDAY APRIL 16
I Wore It Once fashion market: 9.30am-12.30pm, Peninsula Community Theatre, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington; $2 coin entry, www.instagram.com/i_wore_it_once
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 APRIL 22
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
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
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 APRIL 23
Mt Eliza Farmers’: fourth Sunday of month, Mount Eliza Village Green, 9am-1pm
An ambitious program to return two fish to the sea for every one eaten is designed to keep seafood-lovers happy while ensuring no net loss of marine life.
OneFishTwoFish was founded by marine biologist and conservationist Dr Chris Gillies, pictured, an adjunct associate professor in marine ecology at James Cook University, to address the challenges of seafood sustainability. It was developed by Seafood Positive, which Dr Gillies formed last year to finance ocean conservation programs, with the caveat: “We can’t always replace two fish for every fish sold or consumed on a like-for-like basis, but our projects endeavour to holistically increase fish populations.”
“This solves an ethical dilemma for sustainability-conscious seafood consumers and provides a way to positively connect seafood consumption with ocean health,” Dr Gilles said. “The funds will help provide finance for third-party ocean conservation programs including seagrass and reef restoration, and fish restocking programs to measurably improve fish and marine life across Australia.”
OneFishTwoFish is funded by annual public and business subscriptions, and its foundation supporters include Taronga Zoo Sydney and St Kilda’s Stokehouse restaurant. “It’s a simple way for seafood consumers, retailers, restaurants and other businesses to give back to the environment through their seafood consumption,” Dr Gillies said. “We would love to have everyone who sells or buys seafood sign up to the program.
“We send (public subscribers) a certificate, information about sustainable seafood, seafood recipes, interviews with chefs, stories on the latest marine science and technology, and updates on the projects their subscriptions are supporting. Business subscribers receive project images, videos and stories to use, marketing collateral, logo use and invitations to special events. We also provide them with access to our OneFishTwoFish sustainable seafood network that connects like-minded businesses and customers. We’re committed to transparency and will post project reports and other documentation on our website so people can review outcomes for themselves.”
Looking to the future, Dr Gillies said Seafood Positive hoped to achieve B Corp Certification – which acknowledges a business is hitting high social and
environmental targets and exhibiting accountability and transparency – and eventually expand OneFishTwoFish to other countries. “One of the best ways of re-creating healthy fish populations is to make sure young fish survive beyond their first few weeks of life, and we can do that by restoring the habitats that nurture fish and through targeted breeding programs.”
Find more about OneFishTwoFish at www.seafoodpositive.org
Frankston Brewhouse proudly brew all their craft beers on site in their micro-brewery. The brewery houses a 1000-litre three-vessel brewhouse along with 7000 litres of fermentation tanks and 3000 litres of brite tanks, all visible from the taproom. All beers are crafted by the team to be ‘socially approachable’ – that is, having a balanced flavour profile that is true to its style.
For an authentic taste of the Peninsula, you can’t go past Hickinbotham of Dromana’s latest gin release. It’s distilled on site from tempranillo grapes grown, fermented and barrel-aged at Hickinbotham’s Dromana vineyard. Barrel ageing imparts a smooth sweetness and provides a platform for rounding the botanical flavours of juniper, licorice, citrus, coriander and orris root. Mention at our cellar door that you saw this in Mornington Peninsula Magazine to receive a bottle of gin for $55 (normal RRP $70).
Hickinbotham of Dromana is a unique venue with rustic charm and a stunning coastal view overlooking Martha Cove. Coupled with charming gardens, this is your ideal venue for whatever party you have in mind. It’s open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch from 11am-5pm, and there’s live music every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm.
Escape to Hickinbotham of Dromana today.
HICKINBOTHAM OF DROMANA
A: 194 Nepean Highway, Dromana
T: 5981 0355
W: www.hickinbotham.biz
FB: hickinbotham.biz
INSTA: hickinbotham_dromana
Their first brew, the Harold Hop IPA, was an instant hit. The range now includes the Ambassador Pale Ale, Funkytown Sour, Sunnyside Session Ale, Arthurs Wheat, Long Island Lager, New Street NEIPA, The Pillars Pacific Ale, and Pope’s Eye Porter. All the names are a cheeky nod to the Mornington Peninsula. Frankston Brewhouse is owned by a group of proud Frankston locals who dreamed up a venue where likeminded individuals could come together and connect over quality craft beer and shared grazing-style food. For Frankston residents, the brewhouse is ‘the local’ and for tourists, it’s ‘the destination’.
A: 10 New St, Frankston
T: 9001 0010
W: www.frankstonbrewhouse.com.au
FB: frankstonbrewhouse
INSTA: frankstonbrewhouse
Penni Ave Distillery was crafted on the Mornington Peninsula by people with a love of good hospitality.
Proudly creating a range of vodkas showcasing sustainably sourced native botanicals, Penni Ave hope to completely change the way you think about flavoured vodka.
Their Wattleseed and Burnt Honey vodka completely transforms your typical espresso martini, adding wonderful caramel and biscuit flavours. And also try their Lemon Myrtle and Kakadu Plum vodka, which has become a house favourite with the refreshing addition of ginger and muddled mint.
Their warm and inviting space is perfect for any size group to meet for dinner and drinks. They have seasonal food trucks on rotation so there is always something new and interesting on the menu. Staff are always on hand to give tours and an overview of their distilling process. Tasting paddles are also available, making it easy to try all four flavoured vodkas in your own time.
PENNI AVE DISTILLERY
A: 2/43 Peninsula Ave, Rye W: www.penniave.com.au
FB: penniave INSTA: penniave
Established in 1982, Crittenden Estate is one of the oldest family-owned and operated wineries on the Mornington Peninsula. The Crittenden family are passionate about creating quality cool-climate wines that represent the region as well as their commitment to minimal-input viticulture. Second-generation winemaker Rollo Crittenden credits the quality of the Crittenden wines to the sustainable management of the vineyard that has been imperative in their processes for the past 15 years, vastly improving the quality of the soil and in turn the quality of the fruit and wine.
Discover the recently renovated custombuilt Crittenden Wine Centre. Designed to enable customers to appreciate the calibre of their wines in comfort and style, the Wine Centre provides an innovative way of tasting that enables guests to properly explore the Crittendens’ wide range of wines that are crafted on site.
A: 25 Harrisons Rd, Dromana
T: 5987 3800
W: www.crittendenwines.com.au
Open: daily 10.30am-4.30pm
Bondi Blue Vodka is more than just your standard beverage – it's a feeling, a memory, and a destination. Our 100 per cent Australian-made vodka tastes refreshing, smooth and crisp, culminating in a satisfying, long-lasting freshness well after the last sip.
What makes our vodka truly special is our story. We at Bondi Blue were inspired by Australia’s beauty and our laid-back lifestyle. Our focus was capturing that essence in our bottle. Every indulgent sip reminds you of the joy of life in a true representation of the spirit and culture of our land down under.
Sipping Bondi Blue straight or mixing it into a delicious cocktail will surely be a hit. It's the drink for any occasion, from a romantic date night or a fun night out with friends.
Bondi Blue is not just any ordinary vodka; it's a symbol of our unbridled spirit that resides within us all. So go ahead, get some Bondi Blue Vodka and let it take you on a journey of blissful serenity. www.beveragesonline.com.au
BONDI BLUE VODKA
A: 1/20-30 Malcolm Rd, Braeside
W: www.bondibluevodka.com
FB: BondiBlueVodka/ INSTA: bondibluevodka/
ETCH Sparkling is a family business created by Jason Quin that produces a range of sophisticated alcohol-free and sugar-free beverages that are crafted using sustainably farmed Australian native ingredients. There are five delicious flavours to choose from:
ZST – Finger Lime + Lemon Myrtle
PLM – Davidson Plum + Strawberry Gum
MTN – Raspberry + Mountain Pepperberry
APL – Bush Apple + Kakadu Plum
RNG – Orange + Quandong
You’ll find ETCH at selected stockists, including Ritchies IGAs. For a list of stockists or to order online, go to www.etchsparkling.com.au. Enter the code LOCAL at the checkout to receive FREE DELIVERY and a bonus drink!
Follow ETCH Sparkling on Instagram or Facebook @etchsparkling, and remember:
ETCH = Every Time Choose Health.
ETCH SPARKLING
A: Mount Martha
W: www.etchsparkling.com.au
FB: etchsparkling
INSTA: etchsparkling
TikTok: etchsparkling
It's Saturday afternoon, and the warm autumn afternoon light is pouring through the windows. The room buzzes with couples and small groups drinking, laughing, and enjoying the Peninsula's newest wine bar. Banksia Wine Room is a collaboration between legendary hospitality troopers chef Bernard McCarthy and his partner Georgie Linton who have teamed up with Ang Strickland and Chantelle Chiron from Rye Independent Wine Store. This food and wine alliance doesn't just work. It works brilliantly.
Bernard has taken his experience cooking award-winning fine dining and simplified his style to come up with a compact menu of produce-driven snack-size dishes to complement the wines. There could be some deep-fried snapper croquettes with a silky interior inside a crunchy golden crust, topped with an olive wrapped in a white anchovy. Try a sliver of crisp filo topped with creamy goat’s cheese, some sweet honey-roasted cherry tomatoes, and some mouth-popping pearls of salmon caviar. Then there are classic wine-friendly dishes to share, like a pot of smooth duck liver parfait with a disk of earthy beetroot gel and a gently spiced relish of Dromana rhubarb. There is enough complexity and substance on the menu to put together a meal, but that is not the point of Banksia. This is the place to come together, drink some exceptional but accessible wine, have a few plates, and loads of fun.
The wines-by-the-glass drinks list is small but diverse with nine offers. There's a French sparkling from Burgundy for $18, an Austrian Gruner Veltliner for $13 and a Heathcote shiraz for $13. These are good prices in an industry where the money diners are expected to pay for wine is soaring. Don't expect to see a cavalcade of the Peninsula's cool-climate favourites. Instead, look forward to ordering wines from small family-owned producers across Australia, France and Italy.
The action takes place in a historical store on Point Nepean Rd that was until last year Kobi Jack's. The brick walls have been painted white and olive green to match the banquettes. Bare blonde wood tables are set with fine stemware – you can't drink this quality wine out of anything else – and there are tables outside and seats at the bar. The open kitchen out back gives a sneak into the workings of Bernard and his team. The front-ofhouse crew comprises seasoned professionals with gigs at Movida in Melbourne and Donna Maria in Flinders under their belts.
Banksia Wine Room is an excellent example of where modern dining is heading – more casual and less stuffy. More straightforward food with a focus on local and seasonal. Dishes with fewer elements but great quality ingredients. A less structured menu with the expectation
that you're here to graze, not to dine. The overall offer allows diners to have a brief encounter with a plate or two and a glass of wine, or stay longer and dig deeper into the wine list and parade of delicious little dishes. Banksia nails the wine bar concept and makes a welcome addition to the Peninsula's already thriving food and wine space.
RICHARD CORNISH
BANKSIA WINE ROOM
A: 677 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae
T: 8652 8491
W: www.banksiawineroom.com.au
Richard Cornish is a freelance food writer filing regular food news stories for newspapers and magazines across Australia, including Eat.Drink Mornington Peninsula and each month in Mornington Peninsula Magazine.
www.richardcornish.com.au
IWD lunch a hit: The annual International Women’s Day lunch at Frankston RSL hosted by WomenConnect was a smashing success. More than 200 people attended, were treated to guest speaker Rosalie Ham, a teacher and best-selling author of The Dressmaker, and raised $7379 for Dressed for Success. The lunch was supported by Mornington Peninsula Magazine, The Sports Injury Clinic, and Michelle Braggins Real Estate. Photos by Mornington Peninsula Magazine
Stepping out in style: There was fun and refreshments aplenty when Yo-Ko Original Boutique hosted a recent fashion parade featuring a colourful range of the many fabulous clothes, shoes and accessories in store. Photos by Mornington Peninsula Magazine
Let the music play: More than 150 music industry leaders recently came to Peninsula Beer Garden at Eagle Ridge for a music industry night. The gathering was huge success and exceeded all expectations, and the wheels are now in motion to establish a roadmap that it is hoped will enable the Mornington Peninsula to become one of Australia’s leading music destinations. Mornington Peninsula Magazine will keep you posted.
It was a cracker of a night on Saturday, March 4, for the fourth Stellar Short Film Festival. VIP and general admission guests enjoyed a magical experience relaxing under the stars in the natural amphitheatre of McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, surrounded by sculptures that are dotted among the native bushland. Filmmakers, actors and judges flew in from around the country to join the happy crowd of 1000 on this perfect autumn evening. Run by good friends Jasmine and Sarah, Stellar is a premium event on every level: the location, food and beverages, entertainment, VIP experience, people, sponsors, and especially the films. Ticket holders relished the return of this special community experience, watching the carefully curated selection of 12 award-winning Australian films that made them laugh out loud, touched their hearts and left them sobbing.
This year, prompted by the attendance of young deaf actors Calvin Black and Antanhe
Zewdu from the film Tarneit, a second screen and closed captions were added, along with Auslan interpreters – an important step towards accessibility and inclusion.
The winners, as judged by a panel of industry members including Michael Caton, Tilda CobhamHervey, Natalie Erika James, Scott Major and Bradley Slabe, were:
Ilumin8 Best Film: An Ostrich Told Me the World is Fake and I Think I Believe It
Camerons Blinds & Awnings Best Cinematography: An Ostrich Told Me the World is Fake and I Think I Believe It
VA Digital Hire Audience Choice: Tarneit
That Spirited Lot Best Screenplay: Voice Activated Frankston Arts Centre Best Performance: Babetida
Sadjo (in Ayaan)
Luup Special Mention: Freedom Swimmer
Whether you’re a filmmaker, film-lover or you simply want an exceptional night out with friends, the Stellar Short Film Festival needs to be on your radar in 2024.
Ten years ago, Vollers Builders was born from a desire to build beautifully bespoke homes on the Mornington Peninsula. We wanted to create a business and environment/culture where our team would be celebrated for our passion and talent, foster a shared pride in our builds and receive rave client reviews.
Since then we’ve experienced amazing highs – winning our Best Custom Home award – and frustrating lows – operating through a prolonged pandemic. True to our spirit, we never stopped learning and growing. We got smarter with scheduling, built better assets for our business and clients, and focused on our people. And we didn’t just survive, we thrived!
We then re-established our vision and values and were ready to define our strategic plan for the next 10 years. We still wanted to build beautifully bespoke homes but we asked ourselves if it was ours, what would we do? How would we design it, build it? And we’ve done it by designing a beautifully bespoke home for an irresistible price. We’ve called it the Gwendoline. Reach out if you’d like to do a virtual walkthrough.
VOLLER BUILDERS
A: Dromana
T: 5987 3231
W: www.vollerbuilders.com.au
INSTA: voller_builders
Fun on the run:
Organisers of the MY Mount Eliza Run & Fun Festival on March 19 have hailed the event a huge success. Held at Mount Eliza Regional Park, the festival included 4km, 8km and 12km runs, the 4km All Paws Walk, and a kids’ sprint for the younger ones. There were also family-friendly activities and challenges, prizes and giveaways, delicious food and drink, community and business exhibitors, and a silent auction. The festival was first held in 2017 to raise money for myeloma research and treatment and also to empower the community to be happier, healthier and more resilient. Mornington Peninsula Magazine is a founding sponsor. Photos: Alys Rose Photography
In April, one lucky reader will win a Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro valued at $119.95
Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro delivers sleep support and seamless app control - for sweet dreams. The Nodiee Sleep Assist Smart Pro is a 5-in-1 sleep support device that features a White Noise/Sound Machine, Sleep Trainer, Night Light, Portable Shusher and Alarm Clock that enables parents to create and control individual sleep programs via an easy-to-use App. Plus Nodiee’s ‘okay to wake’ sleep training alarm function helps teach little ones when it’s time to rise and shine, so families can experience the positive impact of sustainable sleep patterns - and enjoy a happier, calmer household. 1000+ reviews already & have helped thousands of Australian families experience sleep better.
Invite bold styling into your home with the Emile Console.
OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON
www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au
Hand shaped natural material creates textural features in any room
LIFESTILES DESIGN STUDIO
www.lifestilesdesignertiles.com.au
To enter, become a member of Mornington Peninsula Magazine at www.morningtonpeninsulamagazine.com.au/vip-area, then check out @MornPenMag on Facebook and Instagram to complete all the entry steps on the competition post.
We sometimes meet vendors toying with engaging several agents to sell their property on a general authority rather than signing an exclusive sale authority with one agent. Their rationale is that having multiple agents increases the chance of finding a buyer and keeps all the agents hungry to get the sale, therefore securing a higher sale price. The reality is the opposite.
When selling your home, it is important to ‘do it once, and do it properly’. Right agent, right strategy, right styling and right price equals great outcome. The risk in dealing with multiple agents is that the great agents know their efforts are diluted by lesser agents, and the strategy is scattergun and looks unprofessional. Buyers also tend to think the vendor is desperate when a property is listed with several agents.
The agents will most likely all be dealing with the same buyer pool, and once the buyer realises several agents are involved, they will work each agent to see who can secure the best price for them. The buyer holds the power in negotiating.
This is not how you achieve the best price as a vendor. Committing to one knowledgeable and trustworthy agent and allowing the agent to manage the buyers stops reverse manipulation. Not having the property hawked around by multiple agents hoping for a quick buck also protects the integrity of the property and price.
Other common vendor mistakes include selling the property without an estate agent, choosing an agent based on the cheapest commission, not talking to several agents before deciding on one, not presenting and/or marketing the property properly, and not being willing to listen to agent and buyer feedback. All agents want your listing, but not all agents are capable of securing the very best price. Research, plan, listen. Do it once, do it properly.
A: 50 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza
M: Liz, 0417 559 992
M: Meg, 0400 190 242
W: www.coastalagents.com.au
Lifestiles Design Studio is a hidden gem that will impress with its mixture of art, design, and architecture. This truly mesmerising design space oozes inspiration and creativity.
Supplying an extensive range of inspiring of architectural accessories for cabinets, doors and bathrooms, LDS pride themselves on providing handpicked quality products: a large range of tiles in all formats sourced from around the world, unique lighting, handmade products by local international artisans, Australian-made boutique tapware from Faucet & Strommen, and so much more.
Owner Deborah explains: “We understand the requirements of architects, homeowners, designers and builders. We invite you to come into our converted warehouse and indulge your creative senses. Renovation, new builds, extensions, working drawings – whatever the task, we will build your dream from the ground up to create the dream space for you. Design consultation is available in house or on site, and commercial projects are also
catered for. We have a cosmopolitan collection of inspiring trends.”
From your whole house inside and out, or just your kitchen or bathrooms, Lifestiles Design Studio designs with passion and creativity for every project from beginning to end.
In addition, LDS also has an amazing array of droolworthy wallpaper and fittings, fixtures, hardware and artistic home décor. They also custom-make timber/ concrete and steel vanities and amenities to any specifications and colour.
LIFESTILES DESIGN STUDIO
A: 4/5 Torca Tce, Mornington (just off MorningtonTyabb Rd near Audi)
P: 5976 3507
M: 0439 224 888
E: sales@lifestilesds.com.au
W: lifestilesdesignstudio.com.au
FB: LIFESTILESDESIGNSTUDIO
INSTA: lifestilesdesignstudio_
Open: Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am3pm, Saturday by appointment
Whether you are a conservative minimalist or an eccentric individual, express yourself through style and colour this season. The cooler season calls for family to gather around the fireplace, and friends to wine and dine near the kitchen. It’s warm and cosy, snuggly and pleasant. It is a home that feels like there is no place like it, filled with décor that you love. It’s statement timber dining pieces and buffets that allow you to entertain with ease, and sofas that provide a seat for all to sink into. By layering different tones of a similar hue, you can tie a space together and create a calming, welcoming environment that’s perfect for coming home after a long day. Play with textures in the space – linens and soft furnishings can help bring the warmth in and are easily changeable each season. Natural materials such as reclaimed
timbers this winter can help tie everything together.
Why not choose whitewash? A reflection of purity, you can effortlessly enjoy the simple things in life. Elevate your home interior by mixing a foundation of clean white tones to give the space peace and a sense of calmness. Don’t be afraid to pair multiple shades of white in one space; it allows your space to have depth and dimension.
Live in style this season and discover OZ Design’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
Plantation shutters are an ideal choice for thermal insulation, which is a must in the ever-changing Australian climate. Open the louvres to stream light into rooms and close to insulate, offering you a more energy-efficient home all year round.
dc+b also offers a PVC option with the added benefits of being UV, water and moisture-resistant, making them ideal for all high-use and wet areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundries. Extremely practical, you will have excellent control of light and airflow and also peace of mind with no cords making their shutters child and pet-safe.
Adding shutters across your home’s front windows can also make a huge impact to your home’s façade and kerb appeal. Along with these aesthetic benefits, shutters also add sound insulation from outside road and traffic noise – a must if you’re now working from home or find yourself being woken up early. Contact dc+b’s Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for your free design and measure and quote. If you’re building a new home, then dc+b can also provide expert advice and a free quote off your house plans. Both stores are open Monday to Friday from 9am-5.30pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm.
DC+B
A: Shop C4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132 Nepean Highway, Mornington
T: 5975 3655
E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au
A: Store 15, Kingston Central Plaza, 288 Centre Dandenong Rd, Moorabbin Airport
T: 9566 8200
E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au
FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds
INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds
If you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep, you might need to invest in a high-quality mattress. Look no further than the experts at Makin Mattresses to assist you with this important purchase. For more than 45 years, Makin Mattresses has been Australia’s largest independent mattress manufacturer. With 10 stores Australia-wide and six manufacturing sites, Makin Mattresses has a wide range of mattresses that makes finding the right one for your individual needs easy.
Whether you’re looking for a cot mattress, a super king-size mattress or anything in between, Makin Mattresses will have the mattress you need. Their complete range of mattresses are double-sided, handcrafted, and designed to be flipped and rotated, which is the key
to doubling the life of your mattress and ensuring an even, comfortable sleeping surface.
Makin Mattresses is the only bedding manufacturer in Australia with a micro coil machine that maximises mattress airflow to reduce heat and increase hygiene. This feature is essential not only for your body temperature but also the health of your mattress because sweat causes foam to degrade and flatten over time – so imagine how your current mattress is faring.
If you own a caravan, camper trailer, motorhome, or boat, there’s a lightweight range and a custom-made range so you can travel and sleep well even on a road trip. There’s no need to put up with an inferior mattress just because you’re travelling. A good night’s sleep is vital wherever you are.
A: 189 Bay Rd, Sandringham
T: 9533 1113
W: www.makinmattresses.com.au
FB: MakinmattressesAu
The use of edible weeds has been something of a hot topic in the media for the past few years, but we find it is still a bit of a mystery for many backyard food gardeners. The range of weedy plants we find popping up in our gardens are often considered a nuisance, but some are actually highly nutritious and can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. The dandelion is a well-known weed that can be found growing all over the Mornington Peninsula. Despite being considered rather annoying by many gardeners, this plant is actually packed with goodness and is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. The leaves of the dandelion can be used in salads, soups, and stews, while the roots can be roasted and ground to make a caffeine-
free coffee substitute.
Chickweed has a more delicate, slightly sweet flavour and is rich in vitamins A, C, and D. It can be used in salads or added instead of lettuce to sandwiches
and can also be used as a garnish for soups and stews. Some people also use chickweed as a medicinal herb, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Ah, the dreaded stinging nettle! Despite its intimidating name, these plants are packed full of beneficial nutrients and should not be so feared. The leaves are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium. While the leaves of the stinging nettle can cause a mild allergic reaction when touched, they can be safely consumed once cooked. Nettle leaves can be used in soups, stews, and even pesto. You can even add them to your green smoothie. Go for the young leaves.
Purslane is a common succulent plant that is often found growing in gardens and popping up in paving and paths. Despite being considered a weed by many, this plant is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins A and C. The leaves and stems of the purslane can be eaten raw in salads, or cooked and added to stir-fries and soups. It’s actually very tasty.
A TEAM OF HANDYMEN THAT SERVICE THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA & SURROUNDING SUBURBS
TAKING ON ALL HOUSEHOLD NEEDS:
GENERAL HANDYMAN ODD JOBS AROUND YOUR HOME
GARDEN MAINTENANCE
ROOF & DECKING REPAIRS CERTIFIED ELECTRICIAN
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
Plantain is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron. The leaves can be used in salads, while the seeds can be ground and used as a flour substitute in baked goods. While these weeds may not be as wellknown as some of the more traditional vegetables found in gardens, they are just as nutritious and versatile in the kitchen. By incorporating these plants into your daily harvests, you can not only add more interest to the meals you whip up for your family and friends, but also change the way you think about your weeding tasks. It’ll give you a different perspective on your gardens.
It is important to note, however, that not all weeds are safe for consumption. It is essential to properly identify any plants before consuming them, and to avoid eating plants that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. If you are unsure about the safety of a particular plant, consult a local expert or guidebook before consuming it.
HAPPY GARDENING!
Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens
The beach hand bin initially trialled on the Mornington Peninsula will now be tested on four beaches along the Great Barrier Reef. Part of the ReefClean project, which is funded by the Federal Government's Reef Trust and delivered by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation, the beach hand bin enables people to manage their waste at the beach.
One of the beaches will be Mon Repos near Bundaberg, which supports the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland and has the most significant loggerhead turtle nesting population in the South Pacific region. The success of nesting and hatching turtles at Mon Repos is critical for the survival of the endangered loggerhead turtle. Partners at the Turtle Conservation Centre have been logging data into the AMDI database, as debris often washes into this location or is left by visitors.
The other beaches taking part in the trial are Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas, Magnetic Island, and The Strand at Townsville, each having been chosen for different reasons. Resorts such as the Sheraton have been partnering with Tangaroa Blue on regular clean-ups and are willing to assist in the promotion and distribution of the hand bin at their venues.
The Strand is frequented by people swimming, walking, sunbathing and relaxing in Townsville. While this esplanade location is cleaned by the council, there are areas where debris is either left behind or washed up, and its high population density makes it an ideal location to run an education campaign about litter. Knowledge of the origin and drivers of marine debris and the impact of human activities are essential in the development of management strategies to target debris before it enters the marine environment.
Nearly a decade ago, scientists in Hawaii found that microplastics embedded in beach sand make it easier for water to flow through the sediment, which in turn affects how fast the sand dries out. As microplastics accumulate, they act as an insulator, preventing heat from reaching deeper layers of the beach and affecting the temperature of the sand. That in turn affects the sex of turtle hatchlings, which is determined by the temperature of eggs during incubation.
We hope the beach hand bin achieves its aim of communicating and educating as a tool to reduce land-based litter and will go on to become a legacy initiative across beaches in Australia.
JOSIE JONES
Follow me on Instagram @sharejosie
