Mornington Peninsula Magazine May 2023

Electric plane taxi entrepreneur has eyes on Tyabb

Electric aircraft – planes with batteries instead of fuel engines. Most people shake their heads. No, thanks.

At least if an electric car runs out of juice, you’re stuck on the side of the road. Call someone to come and get you. Maybe even walk. A plane runs out of juice? No, thanks.

Relax – things are changing rapidly, especially for small recreational pilot training aircraft. And if the plane plans of Perth entrepreneur Korum Ellis, 40, founder of FlyOnE (fly on electricity), come to fruition, we’ll soon be able to take air taxis from Tyabb aerodrome in a Pipistrel electric plane.

The Pipistrel (Italian for ‘bat’) Alpha Electro II is made in Slovenia and costs $250,000. It weighs 368kg with its two 57kg batteries, which take an hour to recharge. They power a 60kW electric engine at a top speed of 100 knots (160km/h), cruising at 70-85 knots for one hour carrying two people, with 30 minutes in reserve. That’ll easily get you from the Mornington Peninsula to Avalon, Moorabbin, Essendon or the Yarra Valley.

Korum is an evangelist for electric aircraft. The former model, actor and later owner of Audicom, a vehicle electronics business, first got the electric bug with bicycles. He started a hire company that he still operates in Perth.

Korum calls himself “Electric plane guy” and this year flew the first electric plane over Sydney and Melbourne. FlyOnE has placed a

Pipistrel and recharging station at Lilydale Flying School where students are now taking lessons – the first steps in revolutionising the recreational pilot training industry in Victoria.

FlyOnE is in partnership with Cloud Dancer Pilot Training at Jandakot Airport south of Perth, which is using the Pipistrel, a world-first in recreational pilot training, approved by Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority.

“Within two years there’ll be some incredible general aviation electric aircraft with four and five seats,” Korum said. “The Pipistrel Alpha Electro is carbon-composite with 21kWh of battery storage. Traditional petrol-powered trainer aircraft like the Cessna 152 can use 20-30 litres of fuel an hour.

“The Pipistrel has far fewer moving parts than traditional aircraft so a lot less can go wrong. They are 30-50 per cent quieter than normal aircraft. It’s like riding in a bus; you can talk above the noise. This is the beginning of a major change in aviation. It’s going to sneak up on people like electric cars. A few early movers will make a Musk-load (of money) in the process.”

Korum said FlyOnE was “working with Moorabbin and Tyabb” aerodromes to launch air taxi services as early as 2024. His vision is to have charging stations at about 15 aerodromes in Victoria, including Avalon, Moorabbin, Tyabb, Tooradin, Bendigo and in Gippsland. A parallel rollout will occur in NSW and Queensland. FlyOnE has two stations in greater Perth – at Jandakot and Mandurah – and the city’s holiday island of Rottnest is next.

The company is the brand ambassador, sales agent and service and parts provider for Pipistrel electric aircraft in Australia.

Tyabb aerodrome is owned and managed by Peninsula Aero Club, whose spokesman, club secretary Luke Bramston, said the club had held initial discussions with FlyOnE and had asked for a comprehensive proposal. “Recent advances in electric aircraft are very exciting and one way for aviation to grow. At PAC, we’re open to exploring how we can integrate this technology into our services and future training options.”

There is more on the Pipistrel and electric aircraft generally on FlyOnE’s website: www.flyone.com.au

MIKE HAST

Pictured above: Electric aircraft entrepreneur Korum Ellis was the first to fly an electric plane over Melbourne and Sydney.

Left: The Pipistrel Alpha Electro II battery-powered plane.

SP5500W Trend Whiskey leather, Oak Nature wood on Classic Black base / Nar vik 3s Trend Pebble

Escape into a world of natural wonder and hidden treasures at the Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary and Secret Gardens, where memories are waiting to be made.

Privately owned by Annemaree Van Rooy and Nick Smith, the property is a 22ha oasis of tranquillity in Boneo boasting panoramic views for more than 100km across Bass Strait and Port Phillip.

When the couple bought the property 26 years ago, their focus was on creating 10ha of manicured gardens – a task that took more than 18 years to complete – with more than 20,000 plants in 19 distinct displays, as well as lakes, streams, waterfalls, wetlands and rainforest.

Annemaree’s passion for animals saw her and Nick launch the sanctuary and rescue arm of Panorama 15 years ago, and it’s now home to more than 50 animals. Visitors will find all manner of native wildlife roaming free, including rare albino kangaroos, a large red kangaroo, emus, pademelons, wallabies, echidnas, possums, sugar gliders, blue-tongue lizards, turtles, and tawny frogmouths.

It's not just exotic creatures that reside here; the couple also rescue farm animals such as alpacas, cows, and sheep – the only animals they confine to paddocks.

Caring for their menagerie is a job that requires availability 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Annemaree can often be found giving three-hourly feeds to juvenile animals and investing significant time regaining the trust of animals previously neglected.

Tours are held on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10am and start in the nursery, where visitors interact with the animals in care before wandering the rest of the grounds, viewing the wildlife from a distance, and relaxing in the stunning gardens. Admission is $30 a person, $20 for children under 15, and free for children under 5. Plan for a maximum of three hours to enjoy the entire property. Book online at panoramagardenestate.com.au

And stay tuned because there are exciting plans in the works that will add an extra element to the visitor experience.

Mount Eliza woman Becky Wolfe has been chosen to represent Victoria in the final of Miss World Australia in August. Under the banner Beauty With a Purpose, Becky and the other Miss World contestants are raising money for Variety, a charity that supports disadvantaged children. “We are so proud of her and her endeavours to raise funds for Variety,” said her mother, Liz Todd. Twenty-six women competed at the Victorian Miss World finals, with two selected as the highest fundraisers to date, and a further six young women – including Becky – were selected for the national final because they exemplified the Miss World qualities of beauty, intelligence and compassion. Becky will be involved in further fundraising activities between now and August.

Hiromi’s pantry goes next level

Hiromi Hampton started a street pantry in Langwarrin during the 82-day pandemic lockdown of August to October 2021, when many people were struggling to put food on the table. It was Melbourne’s sixth lockdown.

She started small but the concept grew and a second pantry was added with the support of her neighbours and friends. The pantry in Melaleuca Cres is still going and has grown like topsy – it has extra shelves for dry goods as well as a fridge, freezer and large Esky. The pantry became so popular and well known that it attracted a few bad eggs who abused Hiromi’s generosity. She had to change the pantry’s name, put up signs explaining how it worked and install a security camera.

“Sadly, some people didn’t understand the concept of a community swap pantry and thought it was OK to just take whatever they wanted,” Hiromi said. She was reluctant to report people but a few were pulling up in their cars and cleaning out the pantry. “It was very disappointing. We’re not a charity; we

rely on community donations. If people are in a very tough situation or need constant help, we recommend they contact a big charity.”

Hiromi was declared a pandemic hero by Dunkley federal Labor MP Peta Murphy in late 2021. “I’m proud to recognise her on behalf of our community,” Ms Murphy said.

The pantry idea came from Hiromi’s membership of a swap group in Pearcedale that meets once a month. Now called Little Swap & Share Pantry Langwarrin, Hiromi promotes it through a Facebook page that has 1000 members in Langwarrin, Cranbourne and Frankston. It is open from 8am to 7pm and “customers” are encouraged to bring items to share.

Hiromi and her future husband Kevin Hampton met on a website in about 2000. She came to Australia on a working holiday, the couple fell in love and married, and Hiromi stayed. Hiromi works for a high-end radio equipment company in Clayton. Kevin is a guillotine operator with a digital printing company.

The pantry and growing food are Hiromi’s labours of love but Kevin pitches

in and is the designated garden builder. The couple laugh when Kevin says they used to have front and back gardens of lawn 15 years ago. They’re now full of vegies, fruit trees, flowers and chickens. Hiromi grows peaches, cherry plums, nectarines, mandarins, lemons, limes, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries. She got the gardening bug as a child from her grandfather, who lived on a rural property near Nagoya. She lived in the suburbs with her parents but they still had a small garden. “I’m trying to encourage people to grow their own food and share any surplus. It’s the way to go if we want to reduce our food bills,” she said. “And you can make better meals from homegrown food.” Find out more on Facebook www.facebook.com/ groups/506274734045264

SAM KEITH

Hiromi Hampton in front of her food and home goods pantry in Melaleuca Cres, Langwarrin.

Southern Peninsula-based underwater photographer Jules Casey is winning friends for the sea one image at a time. She is on a mission to show the extraordinary beauty of life beneath the waves and secure wide public support for protecting Port Phillip and its beautiful creatures. Her photos and videos have lit up Instagram and won photo competitions around the world.

Jules has more than 130,000 followers on Insta and posts several times a week. After six years of diving and three years of photography, Jules has a bank of amazing images and stories. “I hope to increase awareness and show people how the underwater world needs protection,” she said.

Her work reveals a stunning, alien world on the doorstep of Melbourne with its five million people. Her winning images include:

• A female pale octopus in a discarded plastic pipe off Rye surrounded by her eggs. A shot from this series, Circle of Life, which took weeks of patient diving, won Best of Show at a 2022 Asia Dive Expo competition.

• In mid-April Jules won a category at this year’s show for a bobtailed squid, which she named Dumpling.

• Seahorse Bus, an extraordinary photo of six baby shorthead seahorses ‘riding’ a piece of seagrass under Blairgowrie marina. This won the novice macro

category at a big US competition, and Jules was awarded the Rising Star Photographer title.

• Rare footage of a female seahorse transferring her eggs into a male’s pouch, which visibly swells as the action unfolds. He will eventually give birth to their babies.

• The first video she entered in a major competition finished in the top five. It’s a compilation of colourful fish, octopuses, stingrays, sharks and cuttlefish swimming freely but also two stingrays and a spider crab entangled in fishing hooks and lines.

• Images of rubbish and pollution – and rescues, including Jules retrieving a baseball cap from an 11-armed sea star.

“I show the good and the not-so-good, the entanglements and rescues,” she said. “I want people to experience what I see and do. My little videos have attracted a lot of attention. I receive messages of thanks from grandparents who show their grandchildren sea creatures. Teachers show my films to their classes.”

Jules held a high-profile job in the gaming industry for 17 years and then decided on a seachange – she got into the sea. It all started during a holiday in 2016 when she went swimming with the majestic and benign whale sharks of Ningaloo Reef in WA. She learnt to freedive, bought a GoPro to document marine life under the piers of the Peninsula, and later bought a second-hand underwater camera, learning how to use it “on the job”.

“The first prize I won was a live-aboard trip to the

Solomon Islands worth $6000. It cost me an extra $10,000 to use the prize but it was an amazing adventure.” This was the Seahorse Bus photo, taken with her first underwater camera, which cost $200.

Port Phillip is home to the big-bellied seahorse and shorthead seahorse, and Victoria’s colourful marine emblem, the weedy seadragon, lives in both bays. “This is the seadragon much admired by world renowned naturalist David Attenborough,” she said. Sir David’s admiration for weedy – “the most wonderful creature” – led him to publicly back the Flinders community’s successful overturning of Parks Victoria’s plans to demolish the old wooden pier at Flinders in 2022. Weedy is a threatened species and its habitat includes the pier.

Jules didn’t study photography but learnt in the water and thinks of herself as an artist more than a photographer. With the cooler weather, she won’t be reducing her diving missions – it will be on with a new wetsuit and into the water. But she is looking forward to a trip to the Maldives soon and after that a visit to Port Lincoln in South Australia to dive with sharks and cuttlefish as a guest of the Rodney Fox Shark Expedition. Fox is one of the world’s most famous great white shark attack survivors who, rather than hating white sharks, became one of their most prominent protectors.

Readers can follow Jules on Instagram at #OneBreathDiver

Pale

Blue-ringed

Nautilus and jellyfish

Bobtailed squid

octopus

octopus

Page 4

Electric plane taxi entrepreneur has eyes on Tyabb

Maybe we’ll soon be able to take air taxis from Tyabb aerodrome

Page 8

Hiromi’s pantry goes next level

Read about Hiromi’s Langwarrin street pantry

Pages 10-11

Extraordinary life beneath the waves

Jules Casey is on a mission to secure protection for the bay and its creatures

Page 18

Beach volley champ

Mount Eliza’s Adele Curtis named Most Valuable Player

Page 21

From Tonga to the skies! Silvia Mcleod’s story reads like a fairytale

Pages 26-27

London calling for Peninsula business

UKFTA means potential for local businesses

Page 40

Sisterhood of the sea

Meet the Sea Wolves

Pages 42-47

A celebration of the generations

Our focus on Mother’s Day has a modern twist

Pages 48-65

Building & Renovating

Special feature focusing on local companies offering many options to renovate or build

Pages 66-73

Education & Learning

We showcase some of the local learning options

CUSTOMER RELATIONS & SALES

Molly 0407 225 261, molly@mpmag.com.au

Anna 0401 598 613 anna@mpmag.com.au

JOURNALISTS & FEATURE WRITERS

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

PUBLISHING MANAGER Belinda Timmerman publishing@mpmag.com.au

SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Sinead Fay

DISTRIBUTION Archie and his band of helpers DESIGN Lisa Walton, Sinead Fay

PUBLISHER, EDITOR Lisa Walton lisa@mpmag.com.au

Pages 74-79

Arts, events, leisure

You will find music, arts and more to enjoy this month

Pages 86-91

Markets, Food & Social pics

Get out and experience all this area has to offer in Autumn

WE’VE GOT THE PENINSULA COVERED

Look for our baskets across the Peninsula, greater Frankston and Melbourne -

Mornington Peninsula Magazine

EatDrink Mornington Peninsula Holiday Mornington Peninsula Ph: 5906 5771 or 9708 8222

14/1140 Nepean Highway, PO BOX 3554, Mornington 3931

www.mpmag.com.au

@MornPenMag @MtElizaVillageMag @eatdrinkMornPen

Left: Sonsie Boutique is making waves in local fashion find them in Mount Eliza, see page 43

Top centre: Family owned Buena Vista Homes are specialist local builders, see pages 54-55;

Top right: Shooting The Dragon by the light of auroa australis with Sally Edwards, page 16.

Bottom centre: Rescued animals find hope and healing at Panorama Wildlife Sanctuary see page 7

Bottom right: Looking for seriously good sheets, check out Beddie on page 45

Help at hand for starting your own business

Do you have a great business idea but lack the confidence or don’t know where to start? You can access a fully funded government program delivered by approved provider Transcend Services and Chisholm to help you develop the skills and confidence you require as a business owner.

Workforce Australia’s Self-Employment Assistance Program offers support and services for aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs. Services include:

• Self-employment workshops;

• Small business training;

• Support to develop a business plan;

• 12 months business advisory support for business owners to deliver on their business plan;

• Business health checks; and,

• Business advice sessions.

Transcend Services is a business advisory focused on supporting small business owners who are aspiring to start or grow their own business. Its focus is on providing business

owners the necessary support and knowledge, skills and confidence to build a sustainable and profitable business. It is passionate about supporting business owners to achieve their personal and business goals.

As Transcend’s chosen training partner, Chisholm Institute is delivering the short course skill sets – including Micro Business and New Business Ventures –which are available online and in the classroom. These short-form skill sets address the skills and knowledge required to investigate and plan a micro business or new business venture.

“I highly recommend Transcend for business assistance with getting your business off the ground or to help your existing business with a clear direction,” said one course participant. “They were fantastic at demystifying business jargon with practical tools and steps. I’m looking forward to growing my business under Transcend’s coaching guidance and accountability.”

Enrolments for the short courses are closing soon. To understand eligibility, specifics on courses and to enrol yourself in one of the courses, visit www.chisholm.edu.au/seap

CHISHOLM INSTITUTE

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

T: 1300 244 746

W: www.chisholm.edu.au

FB: ChisholmInstitute

INSTA: chisholm_institute

End the financial year with more at Peninsula GWM

Having started 2023 confidently knocking on the door of Australia’s top 10 selling vehicle manufacturers, the GWM brand remains neck and neck with two other high-profile marques in the fight for that 10th spot. In spite of the continued quarantine delays at Melbourne Ports, the brand has almost tripled its sales so far this year and we can’t wait to see how the rest of the year plays out.

As the end of financial year approaches, the GWM range of Haval SUVs and flagship Ute (Cannon) make serious sense for tightening business and family purses. The GWM Ute is thankfully in plentiful supply and ready for immediate delivery from Peninsula GWM. We are, however, waiting (im) patiently for more stock of Haval SUVs, but they’re on the way, so be sure to

get your EOFY interest in on time to ensure delivery by June 30. We wouldn’t want to upset the folks at the ATO, now would we?

In the meantime, how about this for a special treat. If you’d like to see the GWM Ute in action around the Peninsula, we’ve teamed up with local chef Michael Demagistris to put one of our Cannon X utes through its paces. Michael and his family have spent the past few months travelling, foraging, camping, cooking – sometimes for pleasure, sometimes for work, but always for fun!

You can check out the Demagistris family’s GWM Ute adventures on Instagram @chef_michaeldemagistris, as well as our own Insta @peninsulagwm

PENINSULA GWM

A: 14 Wells Rd, Seaford

T: 9786 1022

W: www.peninsulagwmhaval.com.au

Sunset over Rye

A year ago, Australians were horrified as the price of the humble iceberg lettuce soared from less than $3 to $10. One supermarket was asking $12 for a lettuce and $20 for a punnet of blueberries. Ouch.

Many other vegies jumped in price and every shopper had a price rise horror story. It was a combination of floods, the pandemic, fuel costs and fertiliser shortages, we were told.

The past year has seen poor growing conditions around Australia as the third year of La Niña prevailed – too much rain and lower temperatures. In Victoria, including on the Peninsula, fruit and vegetables prices have edged downwards in the past few months, but they’re still higher than in past years.

And what if it happens again? Experts are predicting the return of El Niño conditions later this year – less rain, higher temperatures, maybe drought.

Is it time for non-gardeners to think about growing food? We asked Mornington Peninsula Magazine’s long-time Edible Gardener columnist Drew Cooper for the lowdown on fending off high prices – some handy hints and inspirational ideas for beginner gardeners.

“It’s a good time to plant broccoli, leafy greens, root crops and potatoes,” Drew said. “Consider growing salad plants, herbs like parsley and easy to cultivate vegetables. Grow lettuce from punnets and let a couple of them go to seed. Simply shake the seed head around a garden bed to create a field of self-sown lettuce.”

A story about a self-seeding cherry tomato next to a brick wall where the cars were parked at a block of flats in Mornington prompted Drew to talk about the minimal garden – container gardening. “You can make a garden on the cheap. Try the tip shop at Rye or Mornington for planter boxes or big pots – and plants. Go on Facebook Marketplace, find some wood and a box of screws and make a raised garden. Marketplace is like a perpetual garage sale – you’ll often find someone who’s having a cleanout. Set it to show items within a specific distance, say 10km, a bit like food miles, to save having to make long journeys.

“Direct-sow radishes, turnips and onions. A $3 packet of seeds can yield heaps of food. Spend $4 on a punnet of eight plants and you’ll get $50 worth of food. Buy punnets of lettuce, radish, bok choy and broccoli – eight to a punnet – and go for it. Feed regularly. Try Seasol, a natural seaweed plant tonic. A worm farm turns your vegie scraps into fertiliser.”

If you haven’t read them, Drew’s columns ‘Edible Gardener’ each month in Mornington Peninsula Magazine, are a mine of information about gardening. And use the internet to look up ‘how to’ videos.

Drew said he started gardening as a youngster. “I made many mistakes in the first five years but, gee, I learnt a lot.” Inspiration came from his grandad in Box Hill, who fought in World War II in North Africa. “He grew food out of necessity after the war.”

Drew said many people want their Peninsula properties to look like show homes so shy away from growing vegies. “This is where container gardening is great. You can keep the place looking tidy – grow some food but still have a nice yard, front or back.”

Drew’s places to buy seedlings and seeds:

• Transition Farm, 675 Truemans Rd, Fingal

• Boneo Market, third Saturday of the month. There are many other markets on the Peninsula; check out our Markets page in every edition of Mornington Peninsula Magazine

• Bunnings. Why not? They have a good range at good prices

• Diggers Club at Heronswood, 105 Latrobe Pde, Dromana, for heirloom vegetables and fruit.

MIKE HAST

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Shooting the Dragon by the light of aurora australis

Aurora-chasers have had a wonderful time since mid-March as solar wind from the sun struck the Earth’s atmosphere, triggering pulsing waves of pink and green light – the amazing southern aurora. Photographers usually have to travel to Tasmania to view the phenomenon, but this autumn they've captured spectacular shots from the mainland’s southern coast – including at Flinders and Rye. Several aurora nights in March were the biggest and brightest in years – and there could be more to come. Turbocharging the solar wind have been coronal mass ejections from the sun, the strongest for 11 years. CMEs are accompanied by magnetic disturbances that affect the Earth’s geomagnetic field, triggering vibrant displays of northern and southern lights, aka aurora borealis and aurora australis. ‘Borealis’ is Latin for ‘northern’; ‘australis’ is Latin for ‘southern’.

This aurora photo was taken on March 24 at The Dragon’s Head rock formation at Rye’s Number Sixteen Beach by hobby photographer Sally Edwards during an all-night vigil. Sally fell in love with the Peninsula as a youngster and spends many of her off-work hours taking photos of the area’s amazing land and seascapes – piers and jetties, rocks and beaches at sunrise and sunset. She was given an Instamatic camera at age 10 and later learnt to use an SLR, the best basic camera of the time. Now, of course, it’s all digital.

Sally’s had such a good reaction to her latest aurora photos that she hopes to start selling prints. She’s been posting the best ones on Instagram for two years.

Sally recently discovered photography group tours and joined one to K’Gari (Fraser Island) in 2022 organised through the Australian Photographic Society. She is going to the Flinders Ranges soon. Her passion for photography recently led her to Warrnambool to attend a seminar with her photography hero, world-renowned Australian landscape photographer Ken Duncan. Meanwhile, Sally and other aurora watchers are waiting for the moon to disappear, logging on to the Aurora Tasmania Facebook page, and checking one of the world’s best aurora alert websites: aurora-alerts.uk

Readers can follow Sally on Instagram at #sephotosaus

MIKE HAST

Sally Edwards’ images: Fraser Island Dingo; Lake Boomanjin on Fraser Island in Queensland, a top five finalist in the Canon Collective’s 2022 Clique Awards; The Dragon’s Head at Rye with the southern aurora was taken in late March. For the technically minded, she used a Canon 6D Mark II, Sigma art series 24mm lens on f1.4 with a 61-second exposure on ISO 1000.

Mount Eliza youngster named MVP at beach volleyball champs

Volleyball Victoria has much to celebrate after an impressive performance at the 2023 Australian Youth Beach Volleyball Championships in Coolangatta last March. The Victorian contingent improved on last year's medal tally, bringing home an impressive two golds, four silvers and a bronze.

Among the 90 athletes that Victoria sent in the under-14, under-15, under-16, under-17 and under-18 divisions was Adele Curtis, a 12-year-old from Mount Eliza. Adele and her teammates Ellie Mellings, Ediri Ukoko, Izabella Cheng and Mayra Pacioni dominated the under-14 division, not dropping a single set throughout the tournament. They went on to defeat Queensland 21-13, 21-16 in the gold medal match, with Adele being named the under-14s’ Most Valuable Player of the match. Adele's father, Darren Curtis, is also her team’s coach and inspired her to play beach volleyball, having represented Australia in the sport when he was younger. To prepare for the tournament, Adele and her team trained on Saturdays at South Melbourne Beach for about 10 weeks, regardless of the weather.

When asked to nominate her most important lesson from the experience, Adele

said: “To never give up. If you miss your serve or you miss your hit, don't put your head down. Keep it up.” This positive attitude is what helped her handle the pressure in the big games, staying focused and reminding herself they could win.

Despite her age, Adele already has her sights set on becoming an Olympic champion. She acknowledges it’s a challenging sport – particularly on sand, which is not only hard to move through but can be scorching – but she’s willing to put in the years of training necessary to further hone her speed and reflex skills.

Although beach volleyball stops over winter, Adele is not slowing down. She trains with the Mornington Volleyball Club and plans to try out for indoor volleyball to continue her pursuit of excellence in the sport. With an MVP award and Australian championship gold medal to her name, the future's looking sunny for Adele in the world of beach volleyball.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Above left: Adele Curtis, left, and her teammates Izabella Cheng, Ediri Ukoko, Ellie Mellings and Mayra Pacioni celebrate their gold medal win with coach Darren Curtis, Adele’s father who represented Australia in beach volleyball when he was younger and who inspired her to take up the sport; right: Adele was named the under-14s’ Most Valuable Player.

Silva Mcleod’s story reads like a fairytale, with a sprinkle of hope and a lot of determination. From her humble beginnings on the tiny island of Tonga, where she would gaze up at the sky and dream of flying, to her eventual realisation of that goal, Silva’s story is one that will leave you motivated.

"As a child, I’d race outside to watch aeroplanes fly overhead until they disappeared from view," she says. "It was a fantasy, something I never thought could be possible for a little island girl like me." Against all odds, she went on to become a pilot and has written a book called Island Girl to Airline Pilot.

Silva never told anyone about her aspirations until at the age of 19 she shared it with her then-boyfriend Ken, who would later become her husband. "I was waiting for the laughter and the mocking but he just looked very serious and said, 'It can be done. Why not?'"

The dream was put on hold as they married, had children, and faced the challenges of transitioning from Tonga to Australia, with Silva speaking very little English at the time. It

wasn't until Ken was diagnosed with cancer 10 years later that her ambition was reignited. "He said, 'Do you still want to fly?' That little fire was started again," Silva says. The next year Ken gave her a voucher for a joy flight. She was hooked, and began flying lessons at Tyabb.

Silva's journey to becoming a pilot had plenty of struggles. "There was that fear of failure, that self-doubt, the little island girl in me saying, 'No, it can't be'." But through sheer resolve and a lot of study, she achieved her vision, and now she's sharing her story. "When I lost Ken, I started writing the book as a way to cope with my grief. As I wrote, I realised how amazing it would be to inspire even one young girl or boy from a similar background to follow their dreams."

Silva’s story is a reminder that no wish is too big, no obstacle too great, and that with hope and willpower, anything is possible. Her book will be launched at a free event at the Dunes Golf Links in Rye on Friday, May 5, at 5.30pm.

SARAH HALFPENNY

Frankston transforms into a capital of the southeast

Frankston’s stunning revitalisation is under way as the city transforms into a vibrant new capital of the southeast. From new restaurants including TGI Fridays, Betty’s Burgers and Hotel Lona to emerging breweries and distilleries, crafters and innovators, there’s an unmistakable vitality in Frankston.

Young Folks Digital owner Erin Morris made the move to Frankston thanks to a 2022 Invest Frankston Business Grant. “We’re so excited to be in Frankston,” Ms Morris said. “There's a really fun urban energy to the Thompson St, Playne St and Wells St area – we love the street art, the coffee shops and that there's a bit more grit and grunge.”

Betty’s Burgers chief operating officer Merissa Collins said the business was excited to be part of the

revitalisation of Frankston with its 1950s burger shackstyle family restaurant, which began in Noosa Heads in 2014. “We are so grateful that the local community has welcomed us with open arms,” Ms Collins said. “We will continue to celebrate everything that is Frankston.”

The impressive nine-storey architecturally designed Horizon apartment complex under construction in Plowman Place is also boosting Frankston City’s rapidly growing profile. Urban DC director Danny Ciama said he had seen a change in Frankston with a groundswell of desire among business people wanting to do more.

“Frankston as a place to live has so much to offer, with its beautiful foreshore and beaches,” Mr Ciama said. Data compiled by the developer indicated 80 per cent of buyers currently lived within 8km of the site, highlighting the desire of Frankston residents for more housing options, particularly close to the CBD.

Mayor Nathan Conroy, above right, said Frankston City Council was poised to build Frankston’s future through advancing impressive, city-shaping projects that would boost its economy by creating jobs, housing,

workplaces and infrastructure for Frankston City. Frankston was set to become a thriving metropolis and a place that would reach its potential, Cr Conroy said. Melbourne’s population was expected to double by 2050, he said, and every municipality across Melbourne had to share the load in accommodating the growth. “The change is under way. New businesses are setting up in our CBD and governments at all levels are investing significantly in health care, transport and education – as seen with the $1.1 billion redevelopment of Frankston Hospital and Chisholm TAFE revitalisation.”

Cr Conroy said Frankston’s arts and tourism sector was nationally recognised thanks to the popular Frankston City Street Art Tours scoring gold awards two years in a row to be crowned Australian Street Art Awards’ Best Street Art Tour. And Frankston’s summer extravaganza the Waterfront Festival continued to deliver the best live music, delicious food, cultural activities, rides, amusements galore and fireworks to record crowds. Frankston City’s striking economic scorecard – 40,000

businesses providing 45,000 jobs with $3.5 billion in wages and salaries, $3.4 billion in regional exports and an economic output of more than $14.5 billion – was only set to get better as the revitalisation continued.

Cr Conroy said the draft Frankston Metropolitan Activity Centre Structure Plan featured development objectives, including activation of Kananook Creek Boulevard and Promenade, Nepean Highway, and nearby streets with retail, restaurants, cafes, arts and entertainment uses across the day and night, and to

support residential and office uses on upper levels of buildings. “At present there are limited planning controls regarding height in this part of our city centre, hence the major importance of this project and the council’s commitment to extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders.”

Draft guidelines are expected to go before the council for review in June. For more details, visit https://engage. frankston.vic.gov.au/

New doco shows how women are reclaiming their lives

The Women’s Spirit Project will launch a documentary and fundraiser next month detailing the voices and stories of women reclaiming their lives.

I Am Enough tells how women from various backgrounds have faced their challenges head-on and come out on top through the shared community of the Women’s Spirit Project. It is described as “a glimpse into the life of those who have struggled with what it means to find their path, but have realised that they are enough and have found the strength to move forward”. As well as the documentary, the Women’s Spirit Project will share its plans to raise $1 million to make its programs more accessible to disadvantaged women.

“The documentary tells the story of how the Women’s Spirit Project has helped transform the lives of those who participate in it – and by extension how it is a powerful positive force needed in the community into the future,” the Women’s Spirit Project said. “(It is) a program that inspires, empowers and supports women to transform their lives and build connection with themselves, with others and the community. The documentary will inspire you to believe that no matter what your story, you have a purpose, you matter, you are enough.

“Learn how the Women’s Spirit Project has supported over 2700 disadvantaged women to date. Hear inspirational stories from program participants who have transformed their lives by joining our fitness, health and well-being programs.

“The documentary will show how and why the organisation came to fruition; that it is filling a gap in the provision of community-based mental health and well-being programs; and how the Women’s Spirit Project is supporting gender equity from the ground up. The documentary will showcase the stories of a number of women, including Dunkley federal Labor MP Peta Murphy, specifically their struggles and how they have been able to rise above adversity, demonstrating courage, bravery, tenacity and the importance of other women, role models and the community supporting them to rediscover and discover they are enough.

“The annual Frankston to Cape Schanck walk is the visual crescendo to the documentary, partnered with the voices of interviewees who have a clear vision for what the future could be, a visual image of the reality that recovering one’s sense of self is indeed a journey that takes time, persistence and the support of others that cheer you on, enabling you to back yourself.”

To be held on Friday, June 2, at McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery in Langwarrin, the event will be hosted by Smart Business Solutions. Its major sponsor is Common Goodness Foundation and is supported by Mornington Peninsula Magazine, Press Room Philanthropy, Ray White Frankston, and Women’s Health in the South East. To book your tickets, go to https://events.humanitix.com/i-am-enough-documentarylaunch

If you’re unable to attend, you can visit the Women’s Spirit Project website at https://womensspiritproject.org to take part in a fundraising raffle for your chance to win a wide range of Peninsula gifts, experiences and services.

Special presentation for long-time volunteer

Six months after being named the Council on the Ageing’s Senior Achiever Victorian Senior of the Year, Mornington’s Helen Gordon has received her award. Unable to attend the official ceremony at Government House last October because of ill health, Helen was treated to a special award presentation at Parliament House on March 21 with Premier Daniel Andrews and Disability, Ageing and Carers Minister Lizzie Blandthorn.

“Helen has made an extraordinary contribution to the Victorian community, teaching and inspiring others to lead a healthy life over many decades,” Ms Blandthorn said. “Among her many achievements, (she) established a physiotherapy department at Frankston Community Hospital, worked tirelessly to raise funds for World Vision and the School of St Judes in Tanzania, has run community exercise classes for 20 years – including via Zoom throughout the pandemic – and served as Australia’s oldest physiotherapist upon retirement. Seniors Victorians such as Helen continue to go above and beyond to help others, increase community connection and create lasting cultural and social inclusion.”

In 2007, at the age of 72, Helen received the Older Australian Recognition Award, and in 2019 she received the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division for her service to community health as a physiotherapist.

Helen Gordon with Premier Daniel Andrews and Disability, Ageing and Carers Minister Lizzie Blandthorn.

Photo: Hannah Gordon

London calling for Peninsula

A-UKFTA, the free trade agreement signed in December 2021 between Australia and the UK, has the potential to create enormous opportunities for Mornington Peninsula businesses. That’s according to the Committee for Mornington Peninsula, which last month led a discussion and briefing from UK ConsulGeneral Steph Lysaght (pictured with Josh Sinclair, left) on the agreement and what it means for the Peninsula, including visas, jobs, and the removal of trade barriers.

The committee said exporting opportunities for Peninsula brewers, wineries, and distillers had grown over recent years and was expected to grow further after the implementation of the A-UKFTA. There was also an enormous opportunity to work with the State Government and help get British workers to Victoria, and particularly regions suffering from chronic staff shortages.

“While the UK is half a world away, the trade opportunities for our region are now tangible," said CEO Josh Sinclair. "The FTA will see greater people movement and an ease in conditions placed on visas, meaning more workers to fill our staff shortages in our local restaurants, wineries and hotels. Similarly, the export opportunities for our homegrown beer, wine and distilled spirits are endless with essentially tariff-free trade between the two countries opening up new markets to business here on the Mornington Peninsula. The demand for Australian wine, beer, spirits and low-alcohol products in the UK is growing, and our region has an enormous opportunity to benefit from that."

Mr Sinclair said the A-UKFTA would be vital for the region and lead to an increase in trade in goods and services as well as seeing more skilled workers making their way to the Peninsula.

Flinders federal Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie, who attended the briefing, said now was the time for businesses to make the most of the agreement, not when it came into operation. This was especially the case when it came to recruitment opportunities, she said. The briefing was also attended by Hastings state Labor MP Paul Mercurio, Nepean state Liberal MP Sam Groth, Mornington Peninsula Shire

The Award-Winning Financial Advisers

The committee thanked the UK Consulate for briefing its members and stakeholders on the A-UKFTA, Point Leo Estate and Smart Business Solutions for hosting the discussions, and the many Peninsula businesses and producers who attended.

advice is underpinned by our strategic and deep ensuring that our advice is holistic by nature.

councillor Antonella Celi, and Roger Lancia and Angela Cleland from Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism.

Buy Direct from the Trade and Save!

Shipwreck at Point Nepean, 1853

While there are several deaths by drowning each year, the most tragic are those in which a person has perished while attempting to save another. William Owen lost his life on June 1, 1853, when he tried to rescue the crew of the ship Sea, which had struck a reef near Point Nepean during a storm. The Sea, a wooden ship-rigged vessel, had arrived at Hobsons Bay on May 15, 1853, after a voyage of 90 days from Liverpool. She brought 380 immigrants, all reported to be in good health. Five babies had been born during the passage and there had been seven deaths.

Departing from Melbourne on Thursday, May 26, the Sea anchored off Shortland’s Bluff until the following Tuesday evening. Though Captain Taylor, of the pilot vessel Boomerang, advised Captain McKay not to put to sea, he weighed anchor and attempted to sail out through the Heads. After dark, Captain Taylor, who thought the Sea might be in trouble, set off in his whaleboat with six men and found her stranded on rocks. He was unable to bring his boat near the wreck

but after beaching it he reached a point on the shore close to it about midnight.

At daylight, a very high sea was running with waves breaking right over the wreck. Some hours later, Owen volunteered to swim to the wreck with a line tied around him. As he neared the stranded vessel, one of her crew jumped into the surf and Owen tried to save him. Unable to reach the man and probably near exhaustion, Owen untied the rope and attempted to swim to the shore but was overwhelmed by the surf and carried out by the retreating waves.

Seven of the crew of the Sea had lowered a boat before midnight but were unable to persuade others to join them. These arrived safely near Shortland’s Bluff about 1am. Other than two men who reached the beach in an exhausted condition, and one later rescued from a floating spar, all 17 men remaining aboard were drowned when the Sea broke up soon after 2pm.

MAURIE HUTCHINSON

President, Peninsula Ship Society

T: 9787 5780

E: mauriehutch@gmail.com

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

The full-rigged ship Newcastle, a typical ship of the mid-19th century. Watercolour by G.F. Gregory (1824-1887), State Library of Victoria.

Make the most of the holiday rental demand

If you’re thinking about getting into the holiday rental market and you’ve got a property available, Holiday Rentals Australia would love to hear from you. With a solid demand for domestic breaks and holidays right now, Holiday Rentals Australia is looking for more properties between Mornington and the city to meet that need.

Many holiday apartments are managed poorly, which means their owners are missing out on the best return. For almost a decade, Holiday Rentals Australia has taken an honest, attentive and hassle-free approach to holiday properties that has yielded outstanding results for their owners.

The helpful team at Holiday Rentals Australia would love to chat about what they might be able to do for you, guiding you through what many see as a minefield of bad experiences and negative news stories to become the owner of a highly successful and lucrative holiday property.

Take advantage of the demand and give Holiday Rentals Australia a call today to see how the team can help you to make the most of your holiday rental property.

HOLIDAY RENTALS AUSTRALIA

T: 0435 768 514

W: www.HolidayRentalsAustralia.com.au

ATTENTION HOLIDAY HOME OWNERS

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

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

The Carina Nebula, NGC 3372, is an enormous cloud of gas and dust that’s home to several massive and bright stars, including at least a dozen that are 50 to 100 times the mass of our sun. With the active, unstable supergiant star Eta Carinae at its heart, the nebula is about 7500 lightyears from Earth and was the target for one of the first images by the James Webb Space Telescope.

Winter is coming – it’s written in the stars

The Milky Way rises high in the south this month, with Sagittarius and Scorpius sitting in the east – a clue that winter is on its way in the southern hemisphere. Sitting high in the southern sky during May is the prominent constellation Crux, the Southern Cross. If you have a small telescope, be sure to point it at Crux’s brightest star Acrux, which is actually a double star made of two blue-white stars.

The large constellation Centaurus, the Centaur, sits within the stunning star fields of the Milky Way. It is home to arguably the finest globular cluster in the whole night sky – the magnificent Omega Centauri, or NGC 5139. At 10 times the size of the next-largest cluster, you can see it easily as a hazy star with the naked eye, whereas a telescope reveals many of its millions of stars in a tight ball. The constellation’s two brightest stars are Alpha and Beta Centauri, known more familiarly to astronomers as Rigil Kentaurus and Hader. Together, Alpha and Beta Centauri form the Southern Pointers, or The Pointers, as they point towards the constellation

of Crux.

The annual Eta Aquariid meteor shower, which is caused by leftover dust from Halley’s Comet entering our atmosphere and vaporising, peaks about May 6-7. You can expect to see roughly 30 meteors an hour if you are very lucky. The meteors appear to be coming from a point near the star Eta Aquarii in Aquarius, and tend to be quite fast-moving.

This month’s conjunctions, which are when two astronomical objects appear close to each other in the sky, include the moon and Saturn on May 13, the moon and Venus on May 23, and the moon and Mars on May 25. Then on May 27, Mercury is at its highest altitude in the morning sky, followed by its greatest elongation west on May 29, which means it is at its farthest distance from the sun.

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

Photo: MPAS member Chris Kostokanellis

MORNINGTON

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When purchasing a 3 treatments of Dermapen Skin Needling for the face.

Reducing signs of ageing, pigmentation, acne, stretch marks, and so much more, for a healthy glowing complexion.

Microneedling procedures boost the body’s natural healing response to increase collagen and elastin production for reduced fine lines and wrinkles.

Microneedling only available at our Mornington location at 33 Main St Mornington. Bookings available at www.simplybrazilian.com.au or give us call on 59755888.

Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre receives Platinum Pool Award

Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre in Frankston has again been re-accredited with Life Saving Victoria’s prized Platinum Pool Award. In doing so, the facility continues to hold its exclusive position among just 40 Victorian aquatic facilities currently holding the accreditation in the leisure centre category.

Platinum Pool status is awarded to aquatic facilities providing outstanding levels of safety. To achieve the award, PARC had to undertake a rigorous series of assessments to ensure it met all of LSV’s criteria for the accreditation. Passing with an incredible compliance score of 100 per cent, the award provides recognition for the tireless work the facility has put into keeping PARC safe, staff training and education, and the facility’s rigorous Watch Around Water practices.

Peninsula Leisure’s operations manager Jarrah Wynne said the award was a great demonstration of Peninsula Leisure’s commitment to safety and excellence. Mr Wynne said Peninsula Leisure‘s dedicated staff were to thank for the accreditation.

“Our team are so committed to keeping our community safe and active,” he said. “The audit is so important, and to pass with such amazing results is a significant achievement and a phenomenal team effort. There are around 550 public swimming pools in Victoria, so to be in the top 40, the top of those in the state, is something we and our community are really proud of.”

LSV’s aquatic industry services manager Alek Olszewski said the award recognised those facilities that have attained the highest level of safety requirements and standards. “Platinum Pool accreditation really is reserved for the best of the best, so I congratulate PARC on their strong safety protocols and newly minted platinum accreditation that will ensure guests are able to make the most of the new facility to learn lifelong water safety skills,” Mr Olszewski said. “Receiving the accreditation is difficult enough, let alone maintaining it, so we look forward to working together to ensure the

PARC has been re-accredited with Life Saving Victoria’s prized Platinum Pool Award.

pool continues to prosper in adhering to our industry code of practice for the benefit of the community.”

To receive the award, PARC had to follow industryleading pool safety assessment, a six-monthly assessment on implementation, mystery guest visits, and adherence to the best practice Watch Around Water child supervision program. The accreditation is valid for 12 months.

On top of this award, the group’s outdoor seasonal pool, Pines Forest Aquatic Centre in Frankston North, scored a silver endorsement in the Victorian Public Pools Register. “We are thrilled to receive this result,” Mr Wynne said. “It’s very pleasing.”

The safety and well-being of all members, visitors and staff was always paramount, he said. “We are always looking for innovative ways to deliver safety messaging

and training, and this re-imagination is clearly paying dividends to our community.”

Peninsula Leisure Pty Ltd is a subsidiary company wholly owned by Frankston City Council and is charged with the management of the council’s two aquatic facilities, PARC and Pines Forest Aquatic Centre. PARC is at the corner of Cranbourne Rd and Olive Grove, Frankston. For more information, visit https:// parc.peninsulaleisure.com.au/ or call 9781 8444.

PENINSULA AQUATIC RECREATION CENTRE

A: 16N Cranbourne Rd, Frankston

T: 9781 8444

W: www.parcfrankston.com.au

FB: parcfrankston

INSTA: parcfrankston

‘Go with more’ safety

At Peninsula GWM, we’re proud that virtually all models and variants conform to the most upto-date 5-star ANCAP ratings at the time they were tested. Read on for a snapshot of the range.

GWM Ute (Cannon), 5 stars; tested 2021

“GWM Ute models built from August 2021 performed well in ANCAP testing, achieving full points in side impact and far-side impact tests for both adult and child occupants, full points in testing of active lane support system functionality, strong scores for driver protection in frontal impact crashes, and a high level of protection in rear impact whiplash crashes.”

Haval Jolion, 5 stars (petrol variants*); tested 2022

“Where the GWM Haval Jolion particularly impressed was in its active collision avoidance capability – achieving an overall Safety Assist score of 92 per cent.”

*Hybrid variant currently unrated.

Haval H6, 5 stars (all variants); tested 2022

“In order to confirm integrity of the battery and safety of high-voltage electrical systems in hybrid variants, additional frontal offset (MPDB) and oblique pole tests were conducted. With these additional tests, this ANCAP safety rating extends to all petrol and hybrid variants of the GWM Haval H6.”

Tank 300, 5 stars (hybrid variants); tested 2022

“The Tank 300 demonstrated mostly good levels of safety performance across the Safety Assist assessment pillar, with an advanced direct driver monitoring system fitted as standard to hybrid variants. Direct driver monitoring becomes a requirement for 5 stars under the forthcoming 2023-2025 ANCAP rating criteria.”

GWM Ora, 5 stars; tested 2022

“Solid performance across the board makes the GWM Ora the only battery-electric powered car in the Small Car segment to hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating against the 2020-2022 test criteria.”

PENINSULA GWM

A: 14 Wells Rd, Seaford

T: 9786 1022

W: www.peninsulagwmhaval.com.au

the village MT ELIZA

As the final leaves fall from our avenue of trees and the winter comes into view, Mount Eliza Village remains a go-to for independent boutique shopping, personal pampering, complimentary health, and some of the best coffee and café fare on the Peninsula. Mother’s Day makes for the perfect excuse to meander. Our clothing and homewares stores are teeming with trendy gifts and goodies, produce purveyors bring fresh, seasonal harvests to our baskets, and local and imported wine is ready to take home for a toasty night in. Perhaps cosying up at the pub for a Sunday Roast and live music is more your speed. Whatever your reason to visit, we look forward to welcoming you to our friendly town.

Join us on Facebook @MtElizaVillage and Instagram @mteliza_village for what’s on this month.

Essence of Style: A thoughtfully curated collection of bold and bohemian clothing, eye-catching accessories, and island-inspired homewares. 10/87 Mount Eliza Way, P. 0425 811 185, essenceofstyle.com.au, IG @_essence_of_style

Lash Envy: New to Mt Eliza bringing all things lashes and brows. Pamper yourself and your Mum this Mother’s Day with our Book 1 Get 1 50% Off Special! 29 Ranelagh Dr, P. 0414 767 233, lashenvymelbourne.com.au, IG @lashenvymelbourne

Gouzlan Egyptian Jewellery: Offering an exquisite range of unique gold, silver and stone jewellery, along with an expert repair and remodelling service. 76A Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 0100, egyptianjewelleryaustralia.com.au

Peninsula

@peninsulaaesthetics

Aesthetics: Meet Nurse Alysha at Peninsula Aesthetics, specialising in Cosmetic Injectables and skin treatments. Please visit May 5th for Mother’s Day VIP night. 4/20 Ranelagh Dr, P. 0432 846 535, peninsulaaesthetics.com.au, IG

Crowder Community Real Estate: Our professional sales and leasing team are here to bring your property dreams to life. Proudly donating to our local community. 7/22-20 Ranelagh Dr, P: 9708 8667, crowdercre.com.au

Fella Hamilton: A visit to Fella Hamilton Mount Eliza is always a pleasure. New shoppers can enjoy $20 off* their first purchase in-store, or online using code NEW20. T&C’s apply. 112 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9351 5307, fellahamilton.com.au

Herbaceous Flowers: Our store is full to the brim with gorgeous flowers and unique gifts for a special person in your life. Order now for Mother’s Day or pop in for a browse. 46 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 4955, @herbaceous_flowers

Impact Realty: Proudly supporting the community and servicing the Mornington Peninsula in Sales and Property Management.

55 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9787 7308, impactrealtygroup.com.au

mtelizavillage

mteliza_village

Base Podiatry: Suffering from foot pain? Visit Base Podiatry for a full assessment, diagnosis, and orthotics fitting.

2/18 Ranelagh Dr, P. 1300 776 055, basepodiatry.com.au

Eliza Health Food & Gifts: Boody creates beautiful, sustainable and ethical bamboo clothing, designed for pure comfort and perfect for a special woman in your life, including you! Come in to see our huge range.

12/89 Mount Eliza Way, P. 9775 2611, elizahealthfood.com.au

Canadian Bay Hotel: Enjoy a classic Sunday roast for lunch and dinner. Open 7 days with live music Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons. Book now for Mother’s Day.

35 Ranelagh Dr, P. 9775 2331, IG @canadianbayhotel

FB@canadianbayhotel

Keep your brain tuned

Escape rooms are an increasingly popular form of entertainment, but research suggests they may also have unexpected benefits. Studies have shown that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as solving puzzles and riddles in escape rooms, can help prevent cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia. These activities keep the brain active and challenged, promoting the growth and formation of new neural connections. Participating in escape rooms can also help

to reduce stress levels, which is an important factor in maintaining cognitive health.

Overall, escape rooms offer a fun and engaging way to exercise the brain and promote cognitive health, potentially reducing the risk of dementia. So why not gather some friends or family and try an escape room adventure today?

LOCKED IN ESCAPE ROOMS

A: 2/2 Carbine Way, Mornington

M: 0413 010 431

W: www.lockedinescaperooms.com.au

FB: Lockedinescaperooms

INSTA: lockedinescaperooms

Join our growing Just Better Care team

A career at Just Better Care Mornington Group is a wonderful way to make a difference in your local community.

Our employees assist customers to live in their own home, keeping them safe and connected to their local community. When you join Just Better Care, you become part of a successful, growing business that gives you training and support to develop your career.

If you would like to be part of a friendly, local team with flexible hours that suit you, find out more and apply at justbettercare.com/mgcareers

JUST BETTER CARE

T: 5972 1860

W: www.justbettercare.com/mornington

FB: jbc.mornington

INSTA: jbc_mornington

Sisterhood of the sea

As the sun rises over South Beach in Mount Martha, a group of women and nonbinary folk gather on the shore, their mirthful banter carried on the sea breeze. They call themselves the Sea Wolves, named after the wild creatures that roam the Pacific Northwest coast in North America. Ranging in age from their early-30s to mid-80s, they come together every morning at 8 o’clock to start their day with a refreshing dip in Port Phillip come rain, hail or shine.

"I joined about 14 months ago," says Pam Major, one of the Sea Wolves in her mid-70s. "My 84-year-old friend Helen nagged me until I went. I hate cold water so I kept saying no, but I eventually went and it's been the best thing I've ever done."

Despite her initial reservations, Pam now looks forward to her daily swim. "It’s definitely been beneficial for my mental health. I probably go five days a week, and I miss it when I don’t go. It’s an amazing group; they're kind and welcoming. If anyone gets sick or anything happens, they're all there."

The Sea Wolves started during the lockdowns of 2020 when locals Noa Fletcher, Lisa Dinale and Sharalyn Marchant met up, and has grown into a community of more than 50. Each morning, they walk out into the cold water, holding hands and forming a circle. They count down from three to one before submerging themselves in the icy water, howling in unison.

When they emerge, shivering and exhilarated, they share stories and laughter over coffee at a nearby café. And while their morning swim is a powerful physical and mental boost, it is the sense of camaraderie and support that truly sets the Sea Wolves apart.

"We're a family," says Pam. "We laugh together, cry together, share triumphs and tragedies. It's a beautiful way to start the day, feeling connected to the ocean and each other. It's a lovely way to spend our mornings.”

SARAH HALFPENNY

How do we get what we want and need?

With International Women’s Day behind us and Mother’s Day fast approaching, it seems timely to reflect on that age-old question: can women have it all?

Can a woman balance a career with three kids? How does a woman run a company with a six-year-old at home? What’s her secret? How does she strike a meaningful balance between her working life and dating life – if she has one?

Is there a ‘good time’ to have a baby when your career is on the rise? How does she take on the role of caregiver to her immediate and extended family while flourishing as a community leader in her field?

Notice the common thread in all of these questions is that

none of them relate to men. Why are women the only ones who tend to deliberate this question? Men have choices too and have to make decisions that affect their career and family, but historically this balancing act seems femalecentric.

Today, “can women have it all?” is more commonly used as a catch-all phrase to ponder women’s ability to raise a family and have a career, largely attributed to iconic US magazine editor Helen Gurley Brown, who literally wrote the book on it – Having It All – in 1982. It cited her advice for success, for getting everything you want, yet ironically Gurley Brown had no children. Career and baby – two seemingly incompatible pursuits – still form a puzzle that even in 2023 we don’t seem any closer to solving.

Across almost two years of events, Women in Business

Mornington Peninsula – a collection of female business owners, senior leadership and community leaders focused on community and connection – have been asking the question: what is your greatest challenge? From a list of well-known gender barriers, including access to funding and policy and government impacts, respondents overwhelmingly selected ‘Balancing work and personal/family commitments’.

So while our membership and event attendees are leading large and small companies, supporting extensive workforces, balancing budgets of millions of dollars and creating and nurturing products, services, strategic directions and community initiatives, they continue to feel that the balancing act between this and that is not so well-balanced.

After International Women’s Day this year, Sam Mostyn AO, chair of the Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce, gave an address to the National Press Club titled Who Cares? The Courage To Create An Economy For All. She shared the same statistic that WiBMP chair Melissa Goffin led with in her introduction at our IWD event: the confronting truth that Australia ranks 43rd out of 146 countries in the latest World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap Index, measuring health, education, political empowerment and economic participation. We’ve got decades of work to do to narrow this gap.

Ms Mostyn wrapped up her address by asking those present what they were prepared to do to help achieve gender equality. She said gender equality was not a situation where women win and men lose but rather one where “we all gain potential and opportunity”.

We need to start thinking about women’s careers in the same way we think about men’s careers. We need to start making the working father as much a part of the conversation and the solution as the working mother.

Perhaps we can join the chorus of calls to shift this debate and reframe the question to “What do I want and need and how do I get it?” The most important discussion is not whether or not women can have it all but what ‘all’ is for each of us. Balancing is not carrying

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5/54 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza P. 5909 0995

all of the weight. It is understanding the importance of you within all of the things you manage. So while you’re out and about this Mother’s Day, think not just on how you can honour and appreciate your mum or the women in your life through flowers or gifts but by asking her – and perhaps yourself – how she can live her life more authentically. Give her permission to put herself first, to understand her internal balance as critical to not just herself but all of the people and things around her.

Let’s all agree that ‘all’ is really only about us and how we define it. Our priority in this world is to create our own peace, our own happiness and our own purpose in whatever way we see it.

Happy Mother’s Day all.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Who we are

Women in Business Mornington Peninsula is an association of Mornington Peninsula women business leaders committed to furthering purpose-led female businesses, supporting them to thrive and to extend our positive impacts within the community. If this sounds like a fit for you, please consider becoming a member by visiting womeninbusiness.org.au

Give Mum natural, locally made skin care this Mother’s Day

Body Butter - Olieve & Olie’s decadently rich and creamy Body Butter can be used from head to toe and is perfect as an overnight face cream. It soothes and hydrates due to the blend of organic butters, waxes and oils that are skin superfoods to boost healthier skin and healthier living.

Wash & Cream Twin Set - Choose from the Artist Wash & Cream Twin Set with packaging that’s adorned with local artist Lizzie Alsop’s artwork or their stylish black and gold box in the signature Wash & Cream Twin Set. Various scents are available, and these popular products also come individually in 500ml sizes.

Lip Balm - This product is referred to as a ‘little pot of liquid gold’ by their customers thanks to the nourishing blend of organic butters, waxes and oils. With vitamin E and vanilla oil, this Lip Balm will soothe, protect, and assist in healing dry and damaged lips in Mint or Vanilla.

Handmade Soap Bar - Made with Australian-grown olive oil, bursting with antioxidants and rich in vitamin E, Olieve & Olie’s creamy Handmade Soap Bar is indulgent and perfect for everyday use. Pure and natural, it’s a superb cleanser, as it conditions without drying – even for sensitive and problem skin.

Hand Cream - As the ideal size for Mum’s handbag, this all-natural specially formulated Hand Cream will nourish, soothe, protect and restore even the roughest hands. It’s suitable for all skin types and assists in repairing and strengthening nails and cuticles too.

Visit their factory shopfront from 9am-4pm on weekdays or Saturday 10am-2pm: it’s closed on public holidays and Sundays.

Henry Wilson Dve, Rosebud

After putting her career on hold to raise her three children, Deborah Brown has now created a business that reflects her love of two things: design and sleep. Combining her skills as an artist and graphic designer with a deep desire for a good night’s sleep, Beddie was launched in May 2022.

Deborah spent 14 months researching cotton weaves, environmentally friendly nontoxic dyes and production processes, ethical and fair manufacturing partners, and countless sampling of colours and patterns, and her first collection is an ode to midcentury modern: fun and fresh with bright, bold florals and stripes, and plain block colours. The fabric is a long staple cotton weave that is not only soft but durable and slightly heavier for a beautiful drape and premium feel.

“I wanted to offer genuinely beautiful products of the highest quality,” Deborah said. “I really care about how my customers feel about purchasing from Beddie.”

This is evident in the number of returning customers and their thankful emails. “It really makes my day to receive these messages from my customers. It means I’m achieving what I set out to do: to offer premium quality and really great customer care.”

A fresh new collection will be on its way soon.

BEDDIE PTY LTD

W: beddie.com.au

FB: beddiebeautifulbedding

INSTA: beddie_beautiful_bedding

Michelle-Ann celebrates trading 56 years

Lois and Michelle-Ann are celebrating 56 years of business in Main St, Mornington with a huge sleepwear and bra sale. Dressing gowns, nighties and pyjamas are half-price with brands including Givoni, Schrank, French Country, Yuu, and LingaDore in sizes 8-26. What a perfect gift for Mother’s Day.

Our famous Triumph and Berlei bra sale is also in full swing so do yourself a favour and experience a bra fitting with one of our speciality fitters.

Quality gifts that Mum will treasure

Ideas by the Bay is fast becoming one of Mornington’s oldest shops, and so it is quite fitting that we have now matched our space with our age and moved into a gorgeous heritagelisted building.

I work with two of my daughters, Maddy and Eliza. I’ve been lucky to have them through the years of them studying, and I value their input with buying, selling, technology and accounts. It has also been useful to have a younger eye introduce different ideas to a business I’ve grown over the past 12 years. My daughters and I love finding unique work and artists who are passionate about their craft, and we strive to stock quality items that you don’t see everywhere and items that will be treasured.

We must have a family resemblance because many customers confuse the girls, who both bring a bubbly warm smile and positive attitude to work with them and are often surprising customers when they work together and customers discover there’s actually two of them!

Come and see us in store for a special Mother’s Day gift to spoil the important mother, guardian or leading legend in your life. You can also shop our goods online and do click and collect, or we can post it too. Gift-wrapping is on the house. Happy Mother’s Day!

FIONA SMALE, IDEAS BY THE BAY

A: 79 Main St, Mornington

T: 5977 0708

W: www.ideasbythebay.com.au

FB: IdeasByTheBay INSTA: ideasbythebay

French brand Empreinte is next-level quality and comfort starting at 10C and going up to a 26H. The spacer T-shirt is the ultimate in comfort and shape. Exquisite laces and amazing colours make Empreinte truly addictive – once worn, you will only ever wear Empreinte.

For those travelling to warmer places, we have just launched the preview swimwear collection. Brands include the iconic Jantzen, Togs, Zoggs, and Sunseeker. Fabrics are amazing and all best-selling styles have been repeated.

The Pink Room is MichelleAnn’s passion. For 25 years she has been helping ladies who have experienced breast cancer surgery resume their road to recovery feeling comfortable and confident after surgery. Breast prosthesis, swimming prosthesis and a vast range of European bras are also available. For ladies who have experienced a lumpectomy, the partial prosthesis is also available and can really make a difference. Please don’t forget all breast prostheses are funded by Medicare.

We have a wonderful team of ladies who have undergone training who are happy to advise on getting the best results for your needs, whether it be swimwear, bras or sleepwear.

MICHELLE-ANN BRAS & SWIMWEAR

A: 147 Main St, Mornington

T: 5975 3649

W. www.michelleann.com.au

FB: michelleann.mornington INSTA: michelleann.mornington

BUILDING & RENOVATING

SPECIAL FEATURE

Remodelling your property can be a costly pursuit. There are a lot of options, and over the following pages we introduce you to the Peninsula companies that can help you plan your dream home.

Whether you're looking to breathe fresh life into your humble abode or ready it for sale, the decision to renovate your home can significantly increase both its value and your overall sense of satisfaction. But before you go sketching out ways to retile a tired bathroom or fashion a new outdoor entertaining area, there are some important factors to consider. From going solar through to choosing the right look for your space, we hope this special feature will help you figure out what you need to know before you dive into the world of home improvement.

Remember that a good renovation or new build often begins with a good architect and ends with good tradespeople. Our feature informs you how to improve the chances of getting designs and work done on time and to budget using trusted Peninsula businesses.

In this special feature you’ll find pool builders, stunning rugs, custom cabinets, builders, shutters and blinds, electrical and solar installations, barbecues, architects, glass solutions, landscaping, garden supplies, heating and cooling and more. These are local businesses working locally who can advise you and complete your dream home or update and improve your existing home.

Find more every month in our Home section at the back of this magazine.

At Petrina Turner Design, we love collaborating with our clients to develop cohesive interiors plans that align with their vision, timeline, and budget. Our full-service interior design studio on the Mornington Peninsula takes an holistic, custom approach to every project.

We pride ourselves on seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics through thoughtful integration of colour, pattern, light, and materiality. Our passion lies in creating beautiful, practical, and cohesive design solutions that reflect our clients' unique style. With joy and enthusiasm, we infuse our expertise and creativity into every detail, striving to make design dreams a reality and crafting spaces that enrich lifestyles for our clients and their loved ones.

With over three decades of experience and expertise in interior design and decoration, Petrina Turner Design believes in buying well once. We work closely with local suppliers, architects, builders, and craftspeople to create truly exceptional homes that add value to our clients' properties and lifestyles.

We integrate our clients' unique narratives with new and inspiring design innovations, while also prioritising social and environmental responsibility. Mindful of our impact on the environment and the community, we aim to create spaces that reflect individuality and enhance lived experiences, through sustainable design practices.

Get in touch with us at Petrina Turner Design. We are here to help bring your design vision to life!

We have a passion for creating interior spaces that are carefully crafted, joyful and uniquely you.

Stunning build by Abode Inspirations, see page 15

Seaside sanctuary an ecological retreat

Nestled within the serene coastal landscape, this eco-friendly abode offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The combination of country charm and contemporary minimalism gives the house an inviting atmosphere for all its inhabitants. Built with recycled red brick, timber and steel cladding, this seaside dwelling boasts a multitude of environmentally conscious features, including drought-resilient landscaping, solar power, and rainwater harvesting.

The team at Graham Jones Design have expertly crafted this home to take full advantage of its surroundings, with timber and sliding barn doors adding a rustic touch to its modern exterior. Indoors, natural light and ventilation keep the temperature comfortable all year round. The central alfresco provides an ideal space to entertain, protected from the elements and surrounded by lush greenery. This seaside dwelling provides an idyllic escape with its blend of country charm and modern minimalism. Thanks to the sustainable features in place, it's an environmentally conscious option that's perfect for a relaxing coastal retreat.

Graham Jones Design has been creating award-winning, minimalist designs since 1988, when it was founded by Graham and Ella Jones in Mornington. Though Graham retired in 2006, his approach to design remains unchanged and is driven by directors Jake Wilson and Jarrett Drake, and their highly talented team. No matter the size or scope of your project, Graham Jones Design will provide the assistance you need to bring your vision to life. From concept design and documentation to interior design, the passionate team has the experience and expertise to offer custom solutions tailored to your own individual requirements. The practice has offices in Beaconsfield, St Kilda and the Mornington Peninsula, and services a large area, stretching from Phillip Island to Hanging Rock and the alpine region. To learn more, visit the website or contact the team today.

GRAHAM JONES DESIGN

T: 0477 394 864

W: www.grahamjonesdesign.com.au

E: reception@grahamjonesdesign.com.au

FB: grahamjonesdesignAUS

INSTA: grahamjonesdesign

Quality Garden & Building supplies

sourced locally and from around Australia

Three large well stocked yards including:

sands | soils & composts | mulches

crushed rock | cement

decorative river pebbles | driveway products

railway sleepers | steel garden edging

steel products | random crazy paving

bluestone steppers | large feature rocks

bluestone pitches | firepits

5981 0555

sales@rockandredgum.com.au

Trust Woodpecker to deliver year-round comfort

Woodpecker is proud to be the Mornington Peninsula’s premier destination for all your heating and cooling needs for nearly 30 years. As a local familyowned business, we offer a wide range of services including supply, installation and servicing of gas, wood and electric fireplaces, as well as ducted heating and cooling and all airconditioning appliances, barbecues and outdoor fires. We have you covered both inside and out!

Our range of leading Australian and international brands is huge. We can design heating and cooling system combinations to suit your home, budget and STYLE.

We pride ourselves on providing end-to-end service, from advice through to installation and ongoing servicing of your units.

We are truly a heating and cooling ONE-STOP SHOP!

Being a specialist, Woodpecker has the top industry brands such as Heat & Glo, Escea, Daikin, Nectre, Sculpt, Eureka and so many more. And these are all on display in our huge showroom in Mornington.

Our team of LICENSED installers have made a career out of installing just heating and cooling – so there’s no guesswork!

Woodpecker is also the exclusive retailer of Sculpt Fireplace Collection products, the most sought-after French fireplace designs. Our collection includes JC Bordelet suspended fireplaces, Seguin 100 per cent pure original cast-iron fireplaces, and Axis panoramic wood heaters.

So come on in and meet the team, see the products in working display, explore your options and let us help you create a perfect home environment all year round inside and out.

Bordelet Tatiana 997

Seguin Europa 7

Escea DS1400 DS

Regency GF950L

Taking the stress out of building and renovating

Buena Vista Homes is a family-owned and run business founded by Richie Ferri, a licensed builder and qualified carpenter with 20 years’ experience in the construction industry.

“We have always operated under strong values aimed at exceeding client needs,” Richie said. “Our relationship with our clients begins on the first day of contact and only ends once they’re fully satisfied with our work.”

Buena Vista Homes takes a great amount of care and pride in creating your dream home. The business specialises in the construction of architectural new homes, renovations and extensions. At Buena Vista Homes, it is not just about the finished result, but also the journey along the way. Buena Vista Homes understands that creating or renovating your home can be a daunting experience, particularly if this is your first time.

“We take the stress out of building,” Richie said. “Our aim is to make this an enjoyable and exciting experience for you. We help you through your project from the initial idea to construction and beyond.”

Along with extensive experience in the industry, Richie has also developed processes to ensure the construction runs on schedule, the final product is of a high standard and your home is built to last.

You will find Buena Vista Homes’ luxury custom builds, renovations and extensions popping up in Melbourne’s bayside areas and across the Mornington Peninsula, with a quality of service and attention to detail to match the name. Buena Vista Homes is certainly now known as a builder of quality.

BUENA VISTA HOMES

T: 0411 211 505

W: www.buenavistahomes.com.au

E: Richie@Buenavistahomes.com.au

Cut to size glass & mirrors

Glazing Shower screens Pet doors

Panorama Landscaping provides landscaping for large-scale residential, civic and commercial projects

For over 25 years we have been constructing breathtaking gardens suitable for larger properties and estates.

With extensive experience in retaining walls, artificial lakes, wetlands and rock work, we’re able to create a garden for you that will both add value to your property and your lifestyle. Setting your property apart from all others.

Our gardens are designed to create spaces around your home that you’ll love to be in and will be admired by your family and friends.

We strive to make your garden an extension of your living area and provide places of inspiration and relaxation within your property.

Providing a relaxing place to be at one with nature or a destination for a short walk to and from your house, our landscapes will expand the possibilities for enjoyment around your home and property.

At Vibe Design Group New opportunities mean greater value

It is no secret that we have seen quite a shift in the building industry. The rising cost of common building materials, supply issues and labour shortages are the big contributors.

The bottom line is that building costs have taken a sharp rise.

What hasn’t changed is our expectations when it comes to our homes. The past few years have

highlighted our daily journey through our built structures, from how we interact in the tangible spaces to how we feel within them.

If we’ve learnt anything it’s that the industry needs to adapt to create value for the future.

We have taken the opportunity to re-launch our fee structure to engage a strictly service based fee to maximise value for our clients.

Our core belief is that great design creates great value, so we have overhauled the percentage based maxim for design services.

We use our design experience to achieve the feeling that only a truly balanced aesthetic can give without a heavy lean on hard to come by or the most costly building materials. It’s about being smart with the products we choose to adorn the exterior and interior –to be of a quality level that gives generational longevity while being accessible.

For new homes, nothing excites us more than the blank canvas and an opportunity to capitalise on the most desirable aspects that the land and surrounds have to offer.

LouvreTec roofs open up a world of possibilities

LouvreTec Melbourne’s opening and retractable roofs are customised to perfectly fit over your deck or outdoor area. They are a beautiful way to create more space in which to relax, entertain and enjoy life.

LouvreTec roofs are designed to allow you to control the sunlight, ventilation, and temperature within your space. Our team will consider your climate, wind impact and positioning of your area so you get the right advice on the roof best suited for you.

Our opening/retractable roof is innovative, stylish, and created for Australian conditions. We custom design, manufacture and install our roofs across Melbourne. Guaranteed to impress and add value to your home, LouvreTec roofs are versatile and built for longevity – a true art of outdoor architecture. Perfect for both commercial and residential applications, opening/retractable roofs from LouvreTec Melbourne are a smart choice. Choose from eight different styles of opening roofs, including our new retractable opening roof.

A LouvreTec roof gives you a taste of luxury and is a great investment for your home and lifestyle. Its features include:

√ Award-winning spiral pivot system –rotate and stop the louvre blades at any point through 180 degrees of motion.

√ Custom manufactured, fully installed.

√ Retractable opening roof opens 135 degrees and retracts back.

Let the sun power your home

Solar power is the cheapest, cleanest and greenest form of energy available for your house, and with up to $5000 available in government rebates and incentives, it’s never been more affordable. Unfortunately, more than 500 solar companies have gone broke in the past eight years, so it’s important that you choose a retailer you can trust, one with a proven track record in the industry.

JE Electrical Solutions has been an electrical contractor for 21 years, and while it carries out all types of electrical work, it has specialised in solar power for 14 years, recently completing its 5000th domestic solar installation. The company doesn’t use subcontractors, and all its installers are its own internal staff who it has trained.

JE Electrical Solutions prides itself on offering personalised service. Owner Jake Ellen will come to your house to explain everything in detail and design a system that complements your energy use to achieve the best return on investment possible. Jake worked as a subcontractor in the industry for years before starting his business, so you know you’ll be dealing with an expert.

Safeguard against rising electricity bills and future-proof your home against gas shortages and price hikes with a solar system from JE Electrical Solutions. Jake offers a 25-year warranty on the panels, a 10-year warranty on the inverter and a 10-year warranty on his workmanship. Zero-out-of-pocket finance is available too.

Call JE Electrical Solutions today and enjoy your time in the sun.

Pool builder making waves on the Peninsula

With more than 12 years’ experience in landscaping and pool design and construction, business owner Adam Marsal is dedicated to constructing high-quality custom pools that not only look stunning, but encourage and enhance a healthy lifestyle.

Based in Seaford, Peninsula Concrete Pools builds pools across the Mornington Peninsula and bayside Melbourne. The team take a customerfocused approach to pool design and construction. They work closely with their clients to explore their vision and requirements before formulating a design that will be constructed into a custom pool that goes above and beyond their expectations.

Passionate about each and every project they undertake, they build their pools in various shapes and sizes to suit the individual needs of each client, including plunge pools, family pools, infinity pools, lap pools and spas.

A high-quality custom-built pool can provide endless hours of relaxation, exercise and entertainment, as well as adding significant value to any family

home on the Peninsula. “There is something so magical about delivering an outdoor space for our clients which not only becomes the focal point aesthetically, but also provides a gathering place for family and friends to create memories for many years to come,” Adam said. “With so many advancements in pool technology, everything can now be controlled from a tablet or a smart phone, making it easier than ever before for busy, healthconscious families to have a beautiful pool in their own backyard.”

If you’re ready to turn your pool dreams into reality, contact Peninsula Concrete Pools today to chat about your ideas.

Education Week is an annual celebration of education in Victoria. This year, Education Week runs from May 14-20 and its theme is Active Learners: Move, Make, Motivate – focusing on physical activity, hands-on learning, and student voices in education.

In this special feature, Mornington Peninsula Magazine showcases our wonderful schools, kindergartens, babysitting services and other aspects of learning and study to make it easier for you to choose the right options for your children or yourself.

We invite you to explore the following eight pages to find out more about some of our awesome learning centres and the incredible range of services they have to offer.

We offer gift vouchers available on our website

“lessons come from the journey, not the destination”

Tech-savvy teens bring smiles to seniors

What happens when the digital natives of today meet the technology pioneers of yesteryear? They create a circuit of positive energy. If you’re a senior citizen struggling with modern technology, the Youngsters program at the Mornington Library run by Youngster.co is here to bridge the digital divide.

Every Tuesday between May 2 and June 6 from 1-3pm, tech-savvy teenagers from Mornington Secondary College will be at the library providing one-on-one help to anyone who needs it. The Youngsters can help with a wide range of issues; whether you need help setting up a new device, learning how to use social media, transferring photos, or creating and uploading PDFs, the Youngsters will help save the digital day.

But this isn't just about tech support – it's also about bringing the community together. The intergenerational program aims to address social issues such as youth unemployment and isolation among older adults while offering much-needed technology help. In return, seniors can impart their wisdom and life experiences to the Youngsters. It's a win-win situation that creates connections, friendships, and sparks of joy.

To secure your place, call one of the friendly Mornington librarians on 5950 1820, or visit ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au/events

SARAH HALFPENNY

Community: Achievement: 215 High St, Hastings

Program helps young parents complete school

If you’ve had to leave school because you’re pregnant or need to care for your child, Chisholm TAFE Frankston can help. The VCE Vocational Major Young Parents program is for pregnant or parenting people aged 15 to 25 wanting to complete year 11 or 12. You can bring your children to class and will be supported by a VCE teacher, early childhood educator and family support worker in a flexible learning environment. You’ll be able to access help and advice from a range of experts on parenting, early childhood development, financial

literacy and counselling, mental health, well-being, legal issues, housing and more.

You and other young parents can tailor the curriculum to your own interests and needs as you complete year 11 or 12. You’ll also get direct industry experience as you complete your VET qualifications in such areas as barista training, first aid, responsible service of alcohol, and safe food handling, thereby developing the skills necessary to join the workforce.

You can explore parenting and join early childhood workshops run by the early childhood educator and such agencies as maternal child and health, and receive mentoring in the 3A Early Years Literacy program along with any other parentingrelated issues.

Classes are held from 9am-2.30pm three days a week and enrolments are ongoing throughout the year. To learn more, phone Maree on 0477 885 150 or Suzanne on 0412 555 397.

Experience the Cornish College difference

At Cornish College we believe education goes hand in hand with exploration. Beginning with our 3 Year Old Early Learning program and continuing through to Year 12, our students are encouraged to identify problems and seek out solutions, cultivating their creativity as well as their entrepreneurial spirit.

Book a school tour

cornishcollege.vic.edu.au/school-tours

For more information

T: 9781 9000

E: admissions@cornishcollege.vic.edu.au

Discover your inner explorer

What is brilliant teaching?

In some of the best classrooms in the country, brilliant teaching underpins high-quality learning. It inspires the youngest, brightest minds and it sparks curiosity and embeds the concept of lifelong learning.

But what is the essence of quality teaching? For Haileybury CEO and principal Derek Scott, putting the key elements of brilliant teaching into a short summary isn’t possible. However, it’s easy to recognise brilliant teaching in action when he sees it.

“The very phrase ‘brilliant’ teaching elevates teaching to go beyond more than ‘good’ teaching,” Mr Scott said. “I do think that one key characteristic of a brilliant teacher is curiosity. I interview every staff member at their final interview

stage and I always look for curiosity and intellect because when you have bright, intelligent children and young people in your classrooms, you want bright, curious, intelligent teachers in front of them.”

As well as curiosity, Mr Scott highlights engagement,

passion and the ability to build relationships as essential ingredients in the brilliant teaching mix.

“When you build a strong collaborative culture, you build a capacity for teachers to leverage off each other and to never accept they’ve reached the final point in their own development. We want our teachers to reflect that continual improvement that we seek from our students.”

When all these elements and concepts come together, students, teachers and school communities can enjoy the many benefits that brilliant teaching delivers. To discover more about Haileybury, visit www.haileybury.com.au

HAILEYBURY

A: 138 High St, Berwick

A: 120 South Rd, Brighton East

A: 383 King St, West Melbourne

A: 855 Springvale Rd, Keysborough

T: 9904 6000

W: www.haileybury.com.au

FB: haileyburyschool

INSTA: haileyburyschool

haileybury.com.au

More than mastering the double bass.

Ryan is the epitome of all-rounder. Leading his peers, Ryan’s a respected and admired member of the School — actively participating in extra-curricular activities such as swimming, taking centre stage in our musical productions, as well as playing double-bass in the School and Melbourne Youth Orchestras. Ryan is a shining example of everything you can achieve at Haileybury.

Little Grasshoppers is a family owned and operated business boasting 4 centres across the Peninsula with a 5th set to open in Mount Eliza late 2023.

Renowned for progressive and innovative educational curation including our Community Engagement programs, priding ourselves on our Bush Kinder, Garden to Kitchen and Inter-Generational experiences. Our motivated and long-serving team commit themselves to familial relationships and espousing the culture reflective of our values including Respect, Safety, Commitment and Peace of Mind.

The Little Grasshoppers Group - Providing peace of mind on the Peninsula since 1991. www.littlegrasshoppers.com.au

5978 0808

New Playground and Inter-generational Program at our Main St Mornington centre, with limited positions now available.

Est. 1991

arts events leisure

Help keep the music alive

Peninsula Music Society is looking for new committee members to help it continue staging live concerts for Peninsula audiences.

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.

Society president Antoinette Seal said 2023 was shaping up to be an exciting year with five concerts planned: Ensemble Liaison with Grammy-winning flautist Tim Munro on May 13; Melbourne Chamber Orchestra with Genevieve Lacey on June 24; pianist Amir Farid on August 6; bursary winners on September 2; and Affinity Quartet on October 7.

“To put on all these concerts takes a team,” Ms Seal said. “The current team is dwindling in numbers so we are looking for additional committee members and friends of PMS who may like to assist in staging our concerts.

“A concern the current committee have is that if we don’t get new members, we’re not sure how much longer we can put on these top-class concerts for the Peninsula. As part of the committee, you get to work closely with wonderful artists and be part of a friendly team that makes these concerts happen.”

If you’d like to be part of the committee, email president@ pmsmusic.asn.au. For more information, visit https://pmsmusic. asn.au

The Sunshine Club brings joy and radiance to the stage

A radiant and joyful Australian musical will grace the Frankston Arts Centre stage in June as part of a national tour by HIT Productions.

Set in a 1940s Brisbane dance club, The Sunshine Club revolves around Aboriginal serviceman Frank Doyle, who has come home from the war to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home have not. Fuelled by a passion to create a better life, Frank opens The Sunshine Club, a place for black and white to socialise and dance. It is here that Frank dreams of a bright future with white girl next door Rose.

Written and directed by Wesley Enoch AM with original songs by John Rodgers, The Sunshine Club includes veteran Australian actors alongside emerging performers and a five-piece band. “I initially wrote this as a way of bringing people together, especially in the reconciliation movement, this notion of black and white dancing together and

Put a little Verve into your Sunday arvo

Overlooking the stunning Rye foreshore, the Verve Bar exudes all the spirit and enthusiasm for which the Rye Hotel has become known. This sensational, sophisticated and classy cocktail bar has 180-degree views of Port Phillip and is the perfect setting in which to enjoy the hotel’s newest attraction – Shiraz, Jazz & Blues.

From 2-6pm every Sunday during the cooler months, the Verve Bar’s Shiraz Jazz & Blues will serve up carefully crafted cocktails, an extensive wine list and moreish nibbles by the fire as you enjoy a range of artists performing funk, blues and jazz music that’s sure to keep you coming back again and again.

The Verve Bar is the Mornington Peninsula’s newest live music venue and an ideal place for your private function – and now with Shiraz Jazz & Blues delivering a wide range of music every Sunday to keep you engaged while you relax with a cocktail or a glass of wine, you’ve got even more reasons to end your weekend on a top note.

the stories of our history, especially postWorld War II,” Enoch said.

Heralded by The Australian as “a brilliant new landmark in Australian musicals”, previous award-winning productions of The Sunshine Club have been seen at Queensland Theatre Company, and at the Sydney Opera House for Sydney Theatre Company.

The Sunshine Club comes to Frankston Arts Centre on Tuesday, June 27, as part of 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

The Sunshine Club, Queensland Theatre Company. Photography by Brett Boardman

Warm

with She Shell Art

If you’re stumped for Mother’s Day gift ideas, She Shell Art has you sorted. This rattan sea crab wall artwork would make any mum’s day.

Mount Martha artist Miffy Pittaway has used pebbles from her family’s dry creek bed to create the face and body of the crab, as well as 30-year-old abalone seashells, and it’s for sale exclusively at Mark and Cherie Poulter’s delightful Veraison Restaurant at 1889 Point Nepean Rd, Tootgarook. You’ll also find 13 other examples of Miffy’s unique art, any one of which would make a delightful Mother’s Day gift.

Miffy specialises in seaside-inspired wall artworks, homewares and home décor items using shells that she has collected over the past 40 years. None of the shells she uses come from live, critically endangered, threatened or exotic species.

So don’t make Mum crabby by giving her the same old boring gift this year; make her day extra special with a unique piece of art from She Shell Art.

SHE SHELL ART BY MIFFY

M: 0400 178 635

E: miffypittaway@live.com.au

W: sheshellartbymiffy.godaddysites.com

FB: facebook.com/Miffyshells

INSTA: sheshellartbymiffy

Paw-pular RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk returns to Hastings

Fred Smith Reserve in Hastings will be going to the dogs on Sunday, May 28, with the return of the RSPCA’s much-loved Million Paws Walk. Families are invited to join their four-legged best mates along with hundreds of other animal-lovers in supporting the fight against animal cruelty.

Across the state, RSPCA Victoria cares for over 13,000 animals a year and investigates over 10,000 reports of animal cruelty. Every dollar raised through Million Paws Walk helps these animals receive much-needed food, shelter, medical attention and love – giving them a second chance at life.

Dr Liz Walker, CEO of RSPCA Victoria, describes it as a “truly unique experience” that celebrates the joy of pet ownership.

“We’re excited to bring communities together to enjoy a great day out with their furry friends.”

Fred Smith Reserve is one of eight event sites in Victoria, with over 8000 people and pets expected to participate across the state to support animals in need. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at MillionPawsWalk.com.au

Registration at the event opens at 10am and the 2km or 4km walk kicks off at 11am.

What’s On across the Peninsula and Frankston

Shiraz, Jazz & Blues Afternoons, Breezin: 2-6pm, The Verve Bar, Rye Hotel, 2415 Point Nepean Rd, Rye: Breezin’s jazz repertoire includes traditional US songbook tunes and jazz versions of more recent popular songs; the core band is Keryn Laurent (guitar/ vocals), Mike Mathews (bass) and Warren Dickins (drums).

https://bit.ly/MPM-WhatsOn-1

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.

https://bit.ly/MPM-WhatsOn-2

Mornington’s Biggest Morning Tea: 9-11am, Empire St Mall, Mornington; join the community for a cuppa to raise money for the Cancer Council; all food and drinks donated by Mornington businesses; minimum donation of $10 on the day.

I Am Enough documentary launch and fundraiser: 6.30-9pm, McClelland Gallery, 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin; join us for the launch of the Women’s Spirit Project’s documentary I Am Enough, the voices and stories of women reclaiming their lives.

https://bit.ly/MPM-WhatsOn-4

PLOS Musical Productions’ Strictly Ballroom: Frankston Arts Centre, 27-37 Davey St, Frankston; created by award-winning artist Baz Luhrmann, the show tells the inspiring story of Scott Hastings, a championship ballroom dancer who defies the rules and follows his heart; tickets from $44.

https://bit.ly/43CLUtn

RSPCA Million Paws Walk: 10am-2pm, Fred Smith Reserve, Hastings; families are invited to join their four-legged best mates along with hundreds of other animal-lovers in supporting the fight against animal cruelty.

https://bit.ly/MPM-WhatsOn-3

Soul Night Market: 5-9pm, Peninsula Community Theatre, cnr Nepean Highway and Wilsons Rd, Mornington; a festive, foodie and makers’ market.

https://bit.ly/MPM-WhatsOn-5

If you’re anywhere near Singing Bird Studios in Frankston, you’ll probably hear Hey Spiro! before you see them. This young, dynamic band is poised for success with their blend of psychedelic surf rock and experimental pop. Formed two years ago when they were still in high school, the band consists of Lucien Cooke-Abbott on lead vocals/ guitar, Oliver ‘Olly’ Katsianis on bass guitar, and Jackson ‘Jacko’ Lees on drums.

The band's unusual moniker originated from one of their songs, which they’d named after Olly's dog, Spiro. Their recent debut single, Higher and Higher, was written by Lucien during quarantine in 2020, before the band was fully established. The song – described as a reflection on feeling like you’ve lost your mind – then evolved into their signature sound and felt like the perfect choice for their debut release.

Drawing inspiration from ’60s surf rock with contemporary twists, Hey Spiro! don’t want to be confined to one genre. Influenced by both Australian and international acts, such as King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Babe Rainbow, MGMT, and David Bowie, they aim to explore the

vast beauty of different musical styles.

As an up-and-coming band, Hey Spiro! have faced challenges juggling full-time work and other commitments, but their dedication and passion keep them going. "We definitely prioritise the band in our lives and will continue to do so, as we’re only scraping the surface of what we’re planning to achieve," Jacko said.

Creating and performing together brings joy to Hey Spiro!, who thrive on the connection with their audience. They love personal interpretations of their music, valuing the unique meaning each listener takes away.

With plans for more releases, shows, and expanding their reach, the band are determined to continue improving their live sets and realise their vision. When they aren’t jamming as a group, they continue to make music independently and love road trips, eating delicious food and being in nature.

The journey for Hey Spiro! has just begun, promising more exciting adventures and creative explorations in the future. Follow Hey Spiro! on Instagram @heyspiro_

health, beauty, fashion

Let Maddy care for your teeth

Dr Maddy is one of our friendly and caring dentists at Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic. Maddy was born and raised on the Mornington Peninsula and completed her Bachelor of Biomedicine at The University of Melbourne before crossing the Nullarbor to undertake her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia. After graduation, she gained experience on the southern coast of WA before returning home to join the team at Mornington Peninsula Dental Clinic.

Maddy is a calm and gentle dentist who is passionate about creating a comfortable environment for all her patients. She ensures she stays up to date with the latest dental advancements and is a member of the Australian Dental Association and the Australasian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics. When away from the clinic, Maddy loves all things fitness and outdoors, and is always on the search for her next adventure.

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

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

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

MORNINGTON PENINSULA DENTAL CLINIC

A: 117 Tanti Ave, Mornington

T: 5975 5944

W: www.morningtondental.com.au

33 Armstrongs Rd, Seaford | yokooriginal.com.au

@yokooriginal | Open: Tues-Sat, 10am-3pm

FB: Morningtonpeninsuladental

INSTA: morningtondentalclinic

Work begins on Peninsula’s new cancer centre

Mornington Peninsula residents are one step closer to having access to a wide range of cancer treatments and care closer to home after a soil-turning ceremony last month at the site of The Bays Cancer Care Centre.

The new centre will include radiation therapy, research facilities for clinical trials, procedure rooms, consulting suites, a wellness and education centre and a tranquil garden. From a patient’s initial diagnosis, they will be able to take advantage of The Bays Hospital for all of their treatment and care, including important support services and wellness programs.

“Having treatment locally available will mean family and friends will not need to travel significant distances to support patients during their treatment,” The Bays Healthcare Group CEO Jade Phelan said.

“The new Bays Cancer Care Centre is the most significant

We’re here to help, join today!

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

Greg Hunt, Jade Phelan, Brett Gallagher and Chris Crewther.

Photo: Yanni

project in more than 20 years,” The Bays Healthcare Group chairman Brett Gallagher said. “The new centre will provide valuable, comprehensive cancer treatments and wellness programs on the Mornington Peninsula.”

Ms Phelan said a $10 million grant from the Federal Government had brought the project to life. “With the help of donors and the community, we look forward to seeing the new Bays Cancer Care Centre completed and servicing the community on the Mornington Peninsula.”

More than 50 guests attended last month’s ceremony, including Mornington state Liberal MP Chris Crewther, Matthew Head representing Flinders federal Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie, former federal health minister Greg Hunt, current and former board directors, representatives from the Bunurong Land Council, Genesis Care and the consultants working on the project, and major project donors.

The centre will deliver a range of life-saving treatments not currently available on the Peninsula, including radiation therapy. Community help is still required to complete the project. As an independent, not-for-profit charity, The Bays Hospital welcomes all donations. Every donation will make a difference to the healthcare needs of our community. To donate or request a list of items needed, go to thebays.com. au/donate or contact Ms Phelan on 5970 2009.

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.

Endo is more than just a bad period

March was endometriosis month. In Australia, it takes an average of six and a half years from symptom onset for the one in nine Australian women with endometriosis to eventually receive a diagnosis.

Symptoms can include pain before, during or after your period, and during bowel movements or urination; pain radiating into your lower back or legs; heavy or irregular periods; abdominal or pelvic pain; and pain during sex.

Endometriosis can be treated medically with drugs or medicine, or with surgery. Sometimes both are used. Some women also benefit from alternative therapies. Medications range from pain-relief drugs such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatories to hormonal treatments that suppress ovulation and periods.

Surgery can be used to remove or destroy the endometriosis. The most common is laparoscopy, or key-hole surgery. Sometimes endometriosis symptoms will improve if left untreated, but most will stay the same or even become worse. For more information, visit Endometriosis.org.au, a leading Australian endometriosis research group in Melbourne.

Learn Tai Chi

The first step in finding out if your symptoms are caused by endometriosis is to see your doctor. That may be your own GP or our GP obstetrician, Dr Anita Moss. No referrals are needed, and we can arrange referrals to specialists and healthcare providers who are experts in the area. From there, we can arrange appropriate investigations and discuss treatment options and/or referrals to local specialists and pelvic floor physiotherapists with an interest in endometriosis.

Expert multidisciplinary care is essential to ensure women with endometriosis are living with best quality of life.

ARIES: Household budgets are under the microscope. A breakage or breakdown may require dipping into the rainy-day savings. Or you could assess the cost of living and make adjustments. It’s also possible that it works the other way and a boost in income is helpful. Money matters are the focus.

TAURUS: This is your ‘me, myself and I’ month. It’s time for a personal makeover. You are practical and maintain your material possessions, and money matters. Why not yourself? Listen to the part of you that wants to break free and act. Jump out of any ruts.

GEMINI: Sometimes you have to take a step backwards before you can move forward. May sees you reflect on the past year. Your personal finances and love life may be under scrutiny. Your ruling planet Mercury is Retrograde so rest and reflect before action is required.

CANCER: You are dreaming of a brighter future. That’s because it’s time to make sure that you are facing your true north. In other words, that your marriage, profession and life direction have true meaning. Friends can help point you in the right direction. It’s about your soul’s purpose.

LEO: Your professional life is action-packed. If you have been restless then it’s time for a change. If you are satisfied then it’s full steam ahead. Parenthood is also high on the agenda. This is either your current status, or changes occurring. Make sure that key relationships are duets, not duels.

VIRGO: Sport, cinema, study, religion and travel can all lift your spirits, providing escape from the usual Virgo busy thoughts and daily chores. May is your month to embrace activities that help you to forget about everyday worries, or aches and pains. This is about imagination, not logic.

LIBRA: Investments and joint resources are under the microscope. It could be a local issue that has pushed these matters to the forefront. Neighbourhood battles, news from siblings, or a noticeboard that caught your attention. Observe the repetitive cycles and make a decision, even if it is to do nothing.

by Stephanie Johnson

SCORPIO: A line-up of planets in the relationship sector of your Solar Chart means that your marital status is in the limelight. Whether you are single or married, it’s time to ensure that you are satisfied with your current situation and, if not, take action to meet your personal needs.

SAGITTARIUS: Your health is your top priority. As an active Sagittarius it’s likely that you are often rushing, spreading your positive vibes everywhere. It’s time to slow down. Change any habits that are unhelpful and try a slower pace – daily meditation, gentle flow exercises, journalling and such like.

CAPRICORN: Sensible Capricorns have usually put away funds for a rainy day. May is your rainy-day month. It’s your month to loosen the monetary reins. This could be because something

has cropped up and needs fixing, or you could finally afford a fun-filled activity or ‘toy’, or even a generous gift.

AQUARIUS: Comings and goings in your household require your attention this month. This could be a home maintenance project, or a change in your family relationships. Either way, you are focused on settling some home-related matters. ‘Family first’ is your May motto.

PISCES: ‘Boundaries’ is your key theme. Physical boundaries with neighbours are highlighted. Emotional boundaries with siblings and other loved ones, too. As a sensitive Pisces, you don’t like upsetting others, but the idea is that you look after your own self-care and learn to say ‘no’ when necessary.

MARKETS

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

EVERY DAY

Dromana Indoor Market: over 80 indoor stalls to peruse, plus hairdresser, 110 Nepean Highway, Dromana (down from Aldi), 10am5pm

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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

EVERY THURSDAY

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

Plaza Palooza: 9am-4pm, Langwarrin Plaza, Langwarrin

EVERY SUNDAY

Bittern: 8am-1pm, 70+ stalls, Frankston-Flinders Rd, Bittern station Frankston: 8am-1pm, Sherlock & Hay carpark, Young St, Frankston

SATURDAY MAY 6

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

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

SUNDAY MAY 7

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

Little Beauty Market: 9am-2pm, Beauty Park, High St, Frankston; amazing stalls, live music, delicious food and great vibes, www. littlebeautymarket.com.au

SATURDAY MAY 13

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

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

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

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

SATURDAY MAY 20

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

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

SUNDAY MAY 21

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 MAY 27

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 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 MAY 28

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

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

SATURDAY JUNE 3

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

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

SUNDAY JUNE 4

Main St Preloved & Makers Market: 9am-1pm, 61a Main St, Mornington, first ever market day, support circular fashion, www. mainstreetpreloved.com.au

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

FRIDAY JUNE 9

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

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

Koalas and echidnas join the avos and cattle

Talk to Louise Aston about the family’s Newlyn Farm Avocados enterprise in Merricks and you’ll get an enthusiastic yarn about trees – but not necessarily avocado trees. The Newlyn crew are planting thousands of native trees for shelter belts, which are becoming vital wildlife homes and corridors enabling animals, birds and other critters to safely move around.

The family is part of a growing philosophy of returning farming land to its natural state while keeping parts of a property for primary production. In the case of Newlyn, the production part is tending and harvesting 900 Haas avocado trees that produce three tonnes annually as well as running 70 head of Black Angus cattle on the 80ha property.

In the past few years the family has planted more than 2000 trees and shrubs in three corridors with the help of Landcare volunteers. About 3000 more will go in this year – manna gums and other natives once common in the area.

Louise and partner Tim Allen now lead the team of four generations. The farm was bought in 1941 by Robert Wilkins, Tim’s grandfather on the maternal side. Tim’s mum Roslyn and dad Kingsley Allen still live on the farm, as does Roslyn’s older brother Michael, a spritely 90. Louise and Tim’s daughters Morel and Lucie help during avocado season from early December to April.

Louise hails from Blairgowrie but her father’s family were farming pioneers in the Orbost district of East Gippsland. “For so long, farming and conservation have been at odds,” she said, “but we’ve concluded that although the relationship between the two is symbiotic, it’s essential there is harmony and balance to protect the environment.”

The long-term tree project started in 2011 when Newlyn Farm combined with Melbourne Water and Landcare to plant 25,000 trees on both sides of Merricks Creek, the eastern boundary. The revegetation program

gained more impetus when Newlyn started working with Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation, a Landcare group founded in 2019 by Dirk Jansen. “We’re so grateful to the koala folks led by Dirk Jansen and Michelle Hardie as well as Wetland & Wildlife Creations, and Red Hill Scouts,” Louise said. “Every paddock now has a biolink running through it, which enables birds and animals to easily move about.” Other pro-environment initiatives include encircling the property’s largest dam with vegetation and turning it into a lake.

About 60 eastern grey kangaroos call Newlyn home, a far cry from how some Peninsula landowners treat this emblem of Australia. From his house, Uncle Michael

can watch the greys sunning themselves like tourists on holiday. The corridors when grown will support koalas, echidnas and other mammals.

The tree amigos will be back at the farm on the weekend of June 3-4 to plant more gums and other species. And the avos? Well, the season is done, but watch out for Newlyn’s Haas avocados at Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market in December, or visit the farm at 29 Stanleys Rd, Merricks, during one of its farmgate days, which are promoted on the Facebook page @ newlynfarmavocados

TRUFFLE HUNTS

MIKE HAST

Pictured: Louise Aston of Newlyn Farm in Merricks with daughters Morel and Lucie at Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market.

T’Gallant Vineyard charts a course for good times ahead

Under new Melbourne-based owners, the winery has been reborn with a stylish yet still rustic renovation and some new innovations. Wines will continue to be made by Treasury Wines using the grapes grown on the property and around Victoria, and sold as T’Gallant.

The T'Gallant Cellar Door and Restaurant is on a former apple orchard in Main Ridge. Join the lively cellar door team for a tasting and they can show you the differences between pinot grigio and pinot gris. Also available to try are sparkling moscatos and proseccos, crisp rosés and fruit-driven pinot noirs, among other food-friendly wines. The cellar door is open 10.30am-5pm daily. If you’re after a bite for lunch, T’Gallant Restaurant is the birthplace of Roman-style pizza on the Peninsula, serving up a menu of classic Italian and provincial-style dishes seven days a week. On the day we popped in for lunch, we enjoyed antipasti for two, which included olives, breads, pickled vegetables, dips, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats. This was followed by pizza served with salad and chips.

The menu also features entrees and sharing plates, pizzas and delicious Italian mains and desserts. Try linguine primavera, artisan linguine pan-tossed with tiger prawns, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, chilli, a splash of Juliet Pinot Grigio and pecorino Romano. Follow this with tiramisu or honey and yoghurt panna cotta with caramelised figs.

On weekends, musicians perform in the newly revamped outdoor area. With a bustling outdoor piazza overlooking the T'Gallant vines, wine tastings seven days a week and a mouthwatering menu, T’Gallant Vineyard is the

Yes, the rumours are true: T’Gallant Vineyard reopened in late April and is heading into a bright future.

perfect place to gaze and graze on the Peninsula. It’s open for wine tastings seven days from 10.30am-5pm and the T’Gallant Restaurant is open from 11am-4pm daily.

T'Gallant's diverse range of popular wines will continue. Visitors can taste the origins of Australia's pinot grigio and pinot gris. Pinot grigio is the Italian name for the French variety pinot gris. The Italian tendency to pick

the grapes earlier produces a fruity, zesty style while the French typically wait for riper flavours to develop, leading to a creamier, fuller, richer palate. T’Gallant Vineyard has become Australia’s leader in this coolclimate grape variety.

T’Gallant Vineyard will continue this tradition of producing innovative and food-friendly Australian wines with lively personalities. Its annual events are not

to be missed; look out for some that are refreshingly new, or others that are tried and true. Be enlightened and enthralled by a stunning view and innovative share-style menu while swirling a glass or two with the savvy T’Gallant crew.

T'GALLANT VINEYARD

A: 1385 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Main Ridge

T: 5989 6188

W: tgallantvineyard.com.au

Images by Mornington Peninsula Magazine

Spring awakening: More than 1000 guests descended on Peninsula Hot Springs recently for the first Awaken hot springs wellness gathering. The Food Bowl came alive with bass-heavy beats as Shiva Rea led hundreds of guests in an ecstatic, free-flowing yoga class. Later in the day, people sat captivated as Dr Bruce Lipton delivered insights on the ‘biology of belief’. In the Sensory Dome, Uma Neave Spender led breathwork and told ancient mythological stories; Lionel Lauch from Living Culture imparted First Nations bush medicine wisdom and performed a yidaki (didgeridoo) sound healing; and Spud Thompson created an ambient sound bath. Peninsula Hot Springs said it was overjoyed by the response from the community, partners, media, participants and staff, and thanked all involved in bringing this immersive experience to life.

Photos: Arch&Co and Janis House Photography

Love and celebration: The Pig & Whistle in Main Ridge has described its International Women's Day Festival on March 4 as an amazing success. The festival featured a mix of familyfriendly activities as well as workshops, psychic readings, live performances and stalls from more than 100 Mornington Peninsula women and children working in the arts, performance and business. The energy was spectacular, with high vibrations raising the roof in the Shed Theatre with the St Andrew's Beach Community Choir, Carissa Nyalu, Mutual Colour and Lily Clancy. The day began with a Welcome to Country by Jillian West and was followed by a fun-filled program full of love and celebration for women in our community. More than 400 people took part, making this the biggest IWD event the Pig & Whistle team has held. Sign up to the mailing list at http://eepurl.com/hBJKAb to learn more and to be involved in next year's event.

Photos: Jai Seales and Rosie Caulfield

Brendon’s Cakes @brendons_cakes

Ethics in real estate – do they exist?

A Roy Morgan survey revealed that in 2021 just 5 per cent of Australians trusted real estate agents, who sat behind insurance brokers but just ahead of advertising people and car salesmen for perceived ethics and honesty. This is sad news indeed for those earnest and hardworking agents trying to change the perception of the industry.

There are in fact very strict rules around the professional conduct of real estate agents, with serious penalties including fines, jail and cancellation of their real estate licence for wrongdoings. Legislation governing real estate agents includes the Estate Agents Act 1980 and Regulations, the Sale of Land Act 1962 and Regulations, the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and the Fair Trading Act 1999. Regulated by Consumer Affairs Victoria, all real estate agents must act fairly, honestly, in good faith and to the best of their knowledge and ability at all times. They must act in their client's best interests, except if it would be unlawful, unreasonable or improper to do so.

The Real Estate Institute of Victoria also works

PENINSULA STYLE

closely with real estate agents and the community to assist with information, training and support. Recent reforms championed by the REIV to increase professionalism have tightened the criteria for anyone entering the industry, with more stringent requirements around qualifications and licensing. Choosing an agent should be the same as choosing any professional. Ask for recommendations, interview several agents, Google them, and check their references, qualifications and REIV membership. If you do have an unsatisfactory experience, contact Consumer Affairs. There are many proud and honest agents who feel very strongly about cleaning up the industry, leading by example, providing exemplary results and changing the industry perception through trustworthy and transparent conduct. Choose carefully.

COASTAL AGENTS

A: 50 Ranelagh Drive, Mount Eliza

M: Liz, 0417 559 992

M: Meg, 0400 190 242

W: www.coastalagents.com.au

GIVEAWAY TIME

Crafted from Tasmanian Oak, the Nora buffet is a must-have storage solution.

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON   www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

The high backed Azure recliner collection offers sumptuous comfort and functionality.

Motor options provide independent adjustment of the footrest back and headrest in each seat and there is even a lift and rise option in either end seat if required.

With 12 sofa and sofa chaise options, 4 matching chairs and over 250 leather and 300 fabric colours from which to choose - there is something in the Azure collection for everyone.

Sofa prices start from $5899. Exclusive to Luduco Living, see page 3.

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.

Yes they do, but like all industries not everyone reads from the same rule book.

In May, one lucky winner will win a copy of Silva Mcleod’s book Island Girl To Airline Pilot (see article on page 21) valued at $34.99 plus a $100 gift card to Tio Tapas in Mornington.

property home garden

At Essential Home Services, we’ll help you see the difference — cleanly. As an established cleaning company with more than 13 years’ experience, we understand you’re looking for more than just a ‘regular’ cleaner; you’re looking for a service company you can trust, a company that values integrity, professionalism, and commitment to service.

We will work from top to bottom, covering all the critical points you should expect on every good clean. Our routine systems are carried out methodically so you can have a guaranteed, predictable outcome every time we clean your home. And if for any reason you are dissatisfied, we back our workmanship with a ‘touch-up guarantee’. This means we will return to correct the service.

That said, excellent customer service is built into our culture, and we work hard to impress. Whether you stay home or go shopping while you wait for the cleaners to finish, you will have peace of mind knowing that our team members will guarantee your home is safe and secure.

Our friendly and professional staff are provided with uniforms, regulated tools, and proper equipment to ensure the best results. They are also monitored throughout the day, and our company vehicles are GPS-tracked and monitored by our systems to ensure accountability.

ESSENTIAL HOME SERVICES

A: Carrum Downs

T: 1300 910 971

W: www.essentialhomeservices.com.au

E: enquiries@essentialhomeservices.com.au

Insulate your home with cellular blinds

Australian-made cellular blinds by dollar curtains + blinds are more than your average blind. Their unique cellular construction creates its own layer of insulation by trapping air within each cell, resulting in savings of up to 32 per cent on your winter heating and summer cooling costs compared with a standard roller blind. dc+b’s cellular blinds have no visible seams and feature slimline hardware, which minimises light gaps and maximises views when open. Their range also has several design options, which include top down/bottom up, pictured, whereby the blind can be raised as well as lowered when you wish to maintain privacy while letting in natural light.

They are also available in a variety of easy-to-use and child-safe operating systems and specialised shapes, including a skylight system and doorway system, providing the ideal solution for all of your windows.

dc+b has specialised in manufacturing indoor and outdoor window coverings for more than 50 years, all handcrafted in their own workrooms. Contact their Mornington or Moorabbin Airport teams today for

your free design, measure and quote. Both shops are open Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm. If you’re building a new home, dc+b can also provide expert advice and a free quote off your house plans.

DC+B

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

T: 5975 3655

E: mornington@dollarcurtains.com.au

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

T: 9566 8200

E: moorabbin@dollarcurtains.com.au

FB: dollarcurtainsandblinds

INSTA: dollarcurtainsandblinds

As the days are getting longer, we retreat indoors into the comfort of our homes. There is nothing better than coming home to instant warmth, ready to relax on the couch. Here are three easy ways to transform your interior just in time for winter.

Bring the outdoors in with gorgeous florals and greenery. Introducing fresh plants into your space can make a world of difference. Not only do they look beautiful, but plants also provide an opportunity to change your pot plants seasonally or choose new vases to welcome in flowers around your home.

Switch out your rug. Rugs can transform the look of a room by simply changing materials and finishes. For those looking for a rug to weather the winter months, a thick woollen rug is ideal for providing warmth and comfort underfoot that will absorb heat. Embrace your individual style and experiment

with bold colours or patterns for a contrasting look. Layers are your best friend. The cooler season calls for thick textured throw blankets and oversize cushions. Follow a general tonal theme when picking décor for your sofa, armchair or bedroom to make sure your home has a consistent look. This includes table or floor lamps to bring a soft warm glow into your room, or artwork to fill white walls with colour and visual texture.

Make your house feel like a home and discover furniture and homewares collections that will live with you through every moment. OZ Design. For life.

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON

A: Showroom D4, Peninsula Home, 1128-1132

Nepean Highway, Mornington

T: 8560 1137

W: www.ozdesignfurniture.com.au

FB: OZDesignFurniture

INSTA: ozdesignfurniture

Jorg’s solution this winter

Completing rejuvenation of problematic wet areas is what Jorg Melzer does best. As the owner/operator of Bayside Grout Solutions, he’s the expert at giving your shower and bath area some extra attention to prolong their life. No one wants a leaking shower, especially in winter when it’s more

likely to remain wet due to the colder environment. To achieve this ‘like-new’ appearance of your shower recess, Jorg replaces the grout and all the seals and polishes all the surfaces so that the shower looks and acts like new again. This procedure is typically completed in one day, and your shower will be ready to use in 36 hours.

Give the kitchen, laundry and bathroom splashbacks some muchneeded attention too, because –you guessed it – Jorg can help with that too.

BAYSIDE GROUT SOLUTIONS

A: Somerville

M: 0424 843 358

Need an electrician? Call Huddo

Whether you need an emergency electrical repair dealt with quickly, or something less urgent like a new power point or light fitting, you can count on Peter Hudson’s expertise and customer service.

Peter has more than 40 years’ experience as an A-grade electrician. Peter and his apprentice Ethan are Huddo’s Electrical Services. From the initial phone call to the finishing touches on the job, you’ll receive personalised service from Peter and Ethan. They can handle all types of electrical work from simple to more complicated, from wiring new homes and rewiring old homes to upgrading switchboards to the latest type of safety switches; and sweep

fans. Huddo’s are experts in upgrading lighting to LEDs. And if you have a new TV, they supply and install TV brackets and TV and data power points.

If you’re a landlord, Huddo’s can carry out electrical safety and smoke alarm checks and provide you with a written report for your property.

HUDDO’S ELECTRICAL SERVICES

T: 0411 316 180

FB: facebook.com/KingstonES/

Incorporating chooks into your garden plan is becoming increasingly popular and will provide you with numerous benefits. Not only can they supply a sustainable source of protein, but they can also contribute to garden health, soil fertility, and overall garden productivity.

The most obvious benefits of keeping chooks in your backyard is the eggs they produce. Provided they are well cared for, your hens will produce a daily supply of fresh, high-quality eggs. A healthy diet, dry comfortable coop and attention given to their overall health will translate into very happy hens and great-tasting eggs. Keeping your girls happy will require some space so that they can forage around, soil-bathe under a tree, and to keep them interested. While being very inquisitive of their surroundings, chickens are natural insect hunters and they can help to control pests in your garden. They will happily eat insects, grubs, and other small creatures that can damage your crops.

This means that you can reduce your use of chemical pesticides, which is not only better for your garden but also for you and the environment. Just keep an eye on them, as they will also enjoy feasting on and scratching up your crops if left unattended. However, letting them scratch around in garden beds that you are wanting to rejuvenate or beds that have had a green-manure crop growing can be very helpful because they will assist in aerating the soil while also adding organic matter by turning in your spent crops.

Chickens produce a lot of manure, which is great for us gardeners because it can be used as a fertiliser in the garden. Chicken manure is high in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. The best way to use their poop is to add it to your compost system rather directly to the garden. Remember to add plenty of dry material at the same time, such as straw, hay, leaves, etc.

You will also find that your chickens are great at processing your waste, as they will happily eat kitchen scraps, vegetable peelings and other food waste that would all normally go straight into the compost bin. Sharing the food scraps between the two works really well. However, your chickens will not remain healthy on

a diet solely of kitchen waste. A good-quality pellet mix is essential for happy hens.

Raising chickens in your backyard can be a great educational experience for both children and adults. By caring for the chickens and watching them grow, you can learn about animal husbandry, biology, and sustainability. Children in particular can benefit from learning about where their food comes from and the importance of responsible food production. And chickens provide great companionship. They are social animals and enjoy interacting with humans. Many people find that spending time with their chickens can be relaxing and therapeutic, and can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

If you are considering adding chickens to your backyard, be sure to do your research and provide them with a safe, comfortable home and a healthy diet. With proper care, your chickens can be a valuable addition to your food-growing system and your overall lifestyle.

HAPPY GARDENING!

Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens

www.ediblegardens.com.au