Peninsula Essence July 2023

PENINSULA

DANCING SOUL

Living & Visiting on the Mornington Peninsula

Contemporary dancer Tomoko Inamura has her own unmistakable style and proudly brings her enthusiasm, joy and dancer’s flair with her when teaching classes in Frankston and on the peninsula. Being

Writers:

Andrea Louise Thomas, Joe Novella, Muriel Cooper

Photography:

Yanni, Gary Sissons

Creative: Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne

Publisher: Melissa McCullough

Advertising: Andy Jukes, 0431 950 685, andy@mpnews.com.au

Phone: (03) 5974 9000

Registered address: 63 Watt Road, Mornington 3931 W: peninsulaessence.com.au

FB: @peninsulaessence

Insta: @peninsulaessence

All material is copyright, and may not be reproduced without the express permission of Mornington Peninsula News Group, or the original copyright holder in the case of contributions. Copyright of contributed material rests with the contributor.

Disclaimer: The authors and publisher do not assume any liability to any party for any loss, damage or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident or any other cause. This publication is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. The reader should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

Peninsula Essence is produced monthly. 30,000 copies (mix of home delivery and bulk dropped at an extensive network of outlets across the peninsula).

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10. Being Melo

Having cycled and trekked across five continents, Melo Calarco’s desire to help others via the lessons he learned were the driving force behind his book ‘Beating Burnout: Mindful Lessons for a Meaningful Life’.

18. Twist of Fate

Local couple Tammie and Trevor Timmers, owners of Pimp My Balloons, take their amazing balloon-twisting skills from the Mornington Peninsula to a nationwide audience competing on Channel 7’s television series Blow Up.

Leading Arts

24. Dancing Soul

Contemporary dancer Tomoko Inamura has her own unmistakable style and proudly brings her enthusiasm, joy and dancer’s flair with her when teaching classes in Frankston and on the peninsula.

28. Quirky Quintessence

After an aggressive, rare cancer diagnosis, Jenny Wood changed career paths from IT specialist to full-time artist finding that drawing during chemotherapy was very therapeutic. She now sells 90% of her art before it is finished.

Eat and Drink

32. Lights, Camera Cook!

From his Mt Martha home, award-winning filmmaker and chef Joel Meille reaches over three million viewers worldwide with his cooking and travel blog producing restaurant-quality meals in 30 minutes.

38.

Focus On Feature contents 6 36

Focus on Tyabb

Historical facts, café recommendations and what to do in this popular area of the peninsula.

42.

A Fruitful Journey

Come along on the grand journey of popular tourist attraction Tyabb Packing House Antiques, who’s walls along with its current tenants have many stories to tell.

53. The Tyabb Training Farm Project

In 1958 John Barclay made his farm at Tyabb available to the Prahran Methodist Mission and Christian Community Centre to assist in a project which involved thousands of volunteered working hours. Their aim was to link the educational, recreational and worship programmes with physical labour.

Every Month

40. Crossword

BAYSIDE SHOES

Crafted from polka-dot suede, the DOTTIE by Ziera features a lace-up front and inner zip fastening, a removable Comfort Plus footbed to promote optimal alignment, and a gel lining for extra shock-absorption.

103 Railway Parade, Seaford 9785 1887

baysideshoewarehouse.com.au

HP FIRE

The Austroflamm Clou Xtra is for anyone who might be looking for something unique: round doors, oval body and a large, elegant walnut door handle result in an unusual combination that you certainly don’t find in every living room. You will also enjoy up to 12 hours of stored heat with the fantastic Xtra heat storage system.

3/100 Hallam S Rd & Centre Rd, Hallam 9796 5088 hpfire.com.au

PENINSULA Styles

EVERYWHEN ARTSPACE

Hand woven mats made from the leaves of the pandanus plant are a feature of the work of women weavers of Ramingining, Arnhem Land. Traditionally used in ceremonies and as protection from insects when erected in tent like fashion, today these mats are made as floor coverings and striking wall hangings.

39 Cook Street, Flinders 5989 0496

everywhenart.com.au

PRODUCTS FROM THE PENINSULA WE'RE SURE YOU WILL LOVE

MONICA SZWAJA JEWELLERY

Choose from a range of custom-made, bespoke jewellery including these pearl, pure gold and silver earrings with diamonds. Shop 18, 14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Tyabb 0419 564 363 monicaszwaja.com.au

FRANKSTON AUCTION MART

At Frankston Auction Mart you'll find a huge, eclectic range of new and used furniture, inlcuding ex-display home furniture, factory seconds and home decorator items from some of Australia’s top retailers, like this iconic replica

Hans Wegner leather chair.

42-54 New Street, Frankston 9783 9613

frankstonauctionmart.com.au

What's on?

JULY 5, 17, 21

BOTTOMLESS COFFEE BRUNCH 100% MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Cafe 100 Mile Foodie supports clients living with a disability in paid supported employment. The cafe is built 100% to support clients in their employment goals. Your visit to Cafe 100 Mile Foodie gives clients a future of opportunity to accomplish their dreams. www.100milefoodie.com.au

JULY 19

PENINSULA GRAMMAR PRESENTS MIKELANGELO

His diverse and accomplished canon is rich in melody, emotion, and vivid storytelling. His baritone voice is unmistakable, and his natural charm and compelling live shows have earned him a worldwide following. www.eventbrite.com.au

JULY 7

TABLESCAPESTIPSY PAINTING CLASS

What’s more fun than painting? Painting and drinking! In this class you’ll spend two hours painting predrawn acrylic tablescapes! The class is held at "The Nook" Gallery & Studios in Mornington and is led by experienced artists to ensure you’ll leave with a finished product you’ll be proud of. No painting experience is necessary! www.eventbrite.com.au

JULY 24

FRANKSTON MORNINGTON PENINSULA COOK OFF 2023

An exciting competition that allows students to create unique dishes using local seasonal produce. This annual event provides a chance for students to showcase their culinary skills and work in a commercial kitchen. Book your tickets online. This is a FREE event. www.eventbrite.com.au

JULY 9 MORNINGTON CRAFT MARKET

The market swings into action at the picturesque Mornington Racecourse. Purchase local fruits and home grown vegetables. Pastas with matching sauces, local wines and home brewed beer, confectionery and arts & craft pieces . Parking is simple, straight forward and close by. craftmarkets.com.au/mornington

JULY 28 -

AUG 5

STRICTLY BALLROOM AT THE FAC

PLOS musical productions presents an inspiring story of a championship ballroom dancer who defies all the rules to follow his heart. This uplifting and courageous tale originated as a stage play that Baz Luhrmann created.

www.thefac.com.au

The Hub is the heart of Village Glen, already home to the village shop and hair salon, and the now newly completed facilities offer residents so much more. It’s designed to be a place where residents and their guests can gather to relax, converse and rest in a beautifully appointed and furnished communal precinct.

9-Hole Golf Course

Croquet Lawn and Bowling Green

BEING melo

By Joe Novella Photos Yanni & Supplied

Local author Melo Calarco describes himself as a mindfulness and high performance coach, but that doesn’t mean he works exclusively with elite athletes. “High performance coaching is supporting people to operate at their best professionally, in a sustainable way, without the risk of burning out,” explained Melo. “I coach people of all backgrounds to operate at their best. This includes CEOs, surgeons, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, athletes and so on. I provide them with the tools and techniques to do so, including a focus on exercise, nutrition, personal relationships, sleep and other areas of life besides their job.”

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I coach people of all backgrounds to operate at their best

According to Melo, becoming a coach was a natural evolution in his work life over the past three decades. “I was always passionate about helping people in one form or another and I’m also fascinated about all things body and mind. At one stage, I was coaching in more physical therapies and exercise, while I also spent over 15 years working in mental health and psychiatric clinics. These work experiences evolved into my role as a mindfulness and high performance coach, focusing on both body and mind.”

During his evolution to a coaching career, Melo had the driving desire to explore the world and a crazy idea to cycle around it on his mountain bike! “Originally, five friends and I planned to travel the world,” Melo said. “But one-by-one my friends bailed on the idea, so I took off on a solo expedition. I’m glad I did because I could do things at my pace and explore what I was interested in.

“To get around, I mostly cycled or trekked. I also jumped on whatever local transport would get me around, including overland trucks, farmer’s trucks, elephants, cow-drawn carts and camels. I even met my wife on the back of a big orange truck while crossing the Western Sahara!”

Covering over 30,000 km, Melo has travelled around Europe, Asia, Africa, Nepal, India, and North America. He has travelled through jungles, savannahs, deserts, mountains, and everything in-between. “I think I just wanted more out of life and travel was a big part of that. I’ve always had an adventurous spirit and wanted to go out and explore different countries and cultures. I was especially interested in the spiritual practices of the world, so a lot of the journey was one of self-discovery. I experienced a wide diversity of cultures, from staying with Buddhist monks on hill-top monasteries in the high Himalayas to living with various indigenous peoples of the world like the African pygmy tribespeople.”

Travel was the vehicle for Melo to witness incredible sights like the Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda, but also a great way to experience the lives of others with their unique languages, traditions, foods, music, and spiritual practices. “I love being in countries where I don’t understand the language because it really makes me look for ways to communicate in a different way, like sharing laughter, which is a universal language.

“And it seems to be the children that laugh the most. The infectious smiles of the children, especially in poorer developing countries, is something I will never forget. Although they seemingly have nothing and barely the clothes on their back, they are still smiling and laughing. They will always have a place deep in my heart.”

Not all the travel experiences were pleasant, though. “It was challenging getting constantly sick in countries like Africa, Asia and India,” said Melo. “From poor toilet sanitation, contaminated water and food, I was constantly sick with one thing or another, which can be quite tiring. I also caught a severe strain of malaria in West-Africa, which almost killed me. I lost around 10kgs in about three days, which took its toll on me and my travels, but luckily, I survived.”

Lucky indeed, for all of us, because Melo’s travel and desire to help others via the lessons he has learned, were the driving force behind his book, ‘Beating Burnout: Mindful Lessons for a Meaningful Life’. The book captures three decades of wisdom gained through travel experiences and his work in the development and coaching of others. It’s an expression of his deep-seated desire to help others beyond just his client base to beat burnout and find balance in their lives.

I think I just wanted more out of life and travel was a big part of that

At Woodleigh, we challenge young people to be adventurous with their learning – to take risks, to go beyond their comfort zone and break new ground. When young people have choice to pick their own path, their school journey is more challenging and more rewarding. This is how they learn to thrive.

To learn more about Woodleigh School, scan the QR code below, or email our Enrolments Team –enrol@woodleigh.vic.edu.au

“The book shares the learnings from my travels,” said Melo, “and how they can help others. It also includes insights and valuable tips from some of the world’s top leaders and CEOs. Each chapter has interesting stories, theoretical concepts and implementable practices to take away that can benefit you immediately.”

Melo’s travel experiences have also had a big impact on his mindfulness and coaching practices. “A lot of my coaching has its foundations in various beliefs, philosophies and concepts from around the world, many of which I visited on my travels. Over the years, I have studied in depth a variety of Eastern and Western philosophies. I draw upon the best of the Eastern philosophies and ancient wisdoms, combined with the best of the modern Western evidence-based practices to give my clients the best results.”

Nowadays, Melo leads a more settled life, making a home for his family in Mt Martha. “We love the peninsula and its variety of surf beaches, bay beaches, bush walks, wineries, breweries, all in close proximity. Mt Martha is really special to us; South Beach is one of the best bayside beaches on the whole peninsula. I love stand up paddle boarding or kayaking along the cliff line towards the Pillars and beyond. I like the way the neighbourhood has kept

its rural feel, with dirt roads and green corridors everywhere which I love walking my dog along. I also love the village feel of the small group of shops where I can sit and have a coffee at Cibo or one of the other great cafes.”

As for the future, Melo envisages more time spent with his wife and two daughters enjoying the beautiful surrounds of the Peninsula, reigniting his passion for art and learning how to play the guitar with his daughter. More travel is definitely on the cards and another book is not out of the question.

Melo is available for one on one coaching, corporate workshops, seminars, keynote talks and other speaking engagements. His book ‘Beating Burnout: Mindful Lessons for a Meaningful Life’ is available locally at Farrells on Main St, Mornington or Antipodes in Sorrento.

melocalarco.com

128 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento m: 0438 537 757

e: marlenemiller3@bigpond.com

Specialising in antique jewellery, as well as newly-made jewellery by Melbourne’s top jewellers

CELEBRATE YOUR TEAMS’ ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2023 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

With nominations now open until the 14th of August, local businesses are encouraged to get involved in the Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards by showcasing their expertise and accomplishments in one of nine industry categories.

The Awards present an opportunity to reflect on where your business is today and where it’s heading, recognise and reward your teams’ successes thus far, raise your business profile and set yourself apart from the competition. Regardless of the outcome, entering a business award can be a highly valuable learning opportunity and a chance to boost team morale and connect with like-minded businesspeople.

The 2022 winners in the Creative category shared that winning felt like confirmation of their dedication and perseverance:

“Winning the recent Business Excellence Award felt like an official stamp of validation for what we worked so hard for over the last 8 years. It was a huge boost and helped us get to know and connect with like-minded business owners living right here on the Peninsula.”

Kerstin Begley, Founder of Little Woodworkers

Any business located within the Mornington Peninsula Shire municipality is eligible to enter, whatever their business size.

Finalists and winners will be announced at the gala ceremony and dinner on November 15th at RACV Cape Schanck.

The 2023 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards are supported by MP News Group, MP Magazine, 3MP and Chisholm Institute.

To find out more and submit a nomination visit the website:

W: mpbusiness.com.au/businessawards

Local family business, Little Woodworkers, took home an award in the Creative category in 2022.

August is the month for local businesses to engage in professional development, networking and knowledge-sharing through the Mornington Peninsula’s first ever Small Business Festival.

The program of curated events, insightful presentations and practical workshops cover a range of topics, from social media marketing and business planning to grant-writing and workforce building, among many others. Some highlights of the month-long program that are not to be missed:

• The official launch event, hosted at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. Enjoy breakfast, followed by an inspiring presentation from keynote speaker, Mark McCrindle. Mark is an award-winning social researcher, influential thought-leader, TEDx speaker and best-selling author.

• Various marketing workshops. Learn from Rivexe Digital about how to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) marketing tools to save time and reduce costs. Or get an introduction from Munroe Digital into using videos for social media, including reels and stories, to ensure you are staying on top of marketing trends.

• A two-day Business Accelerator workshop. For new businesses, or those who want to take their business to the next level. Participants will gain an understanding of the critical components

of business planning and will develop a draft business plan as a blueprint for future success.

• A Workforce Building Forum held at Chisholm’s Rosebud Campus. Join other tourism, hospitality, agriculture and horticulture businesses to hear about workforce solutions, funding and grant support available to build your workforce and employee pathways specific to your industry.

Discover the full program and book your events on the website.

The Small Business Festival is an initiative delivered by the Mornington Peninsula Shire to support local small businesses, such as Nordie Café in Red Hill.

Tammie and Trevor Timmers clicked over a shared vision of bringing balloons to life and making people happy

By Liz Bell Photos Supplied

In a world where colours come to life and imagination takes flight, there exists a mastery that can transform mere air into whimsical wonders.

Welcome to the realm of balloon art, where skilled hands and fertile minds twist and shape the ordinary into the extraordinary.

It may seem like child’s play, but this is an artform that requires mental and physical dexterity and more than a little imagination, as Mornington Peninsula couple Tammie and Trevor Timmers can attest.

The engaging and energetic couple were recently participants in the Channel 7 Blow Up series, which showcased the skills and individualism of balloon artists around Australia.

Hosted by Stephen Curry and comedian Becky Lucas, and judged by professional balloon artist Chris Adamo, the unlikely show was as funny and entertaining as it was visually spectacular.

Trevor made some incredible balloon designs but eventually went out in episode five of the show, in which ten artists competed to create the best balloon artworks for a $100,000 prize. Tammie continued to stun the audience with her fabulous designs and made it all the way to the top four in finals week.

The peninsula couple have been weaving their magic with latex for more than a decade under their business name of Pimp My Balloons. With each gentle loop or twist, they create a vibrant universe of shapes, characters and sculptures, turning simple balloons into masterpieces and making the impossible a reality.

The balloon journey began with Tammie when she was in her 20s, but when she met her husband-to-be Trevor on a plane 12 years ago, it was a magical meeting of creative minds.

The pair, both now 37, clicked over similar goals to create, entertain and make people happy, and soon realised there was a whole new world they could explore together.

Tammie and Trevor with daughter Thaya

Trevor, who was working in real estate at the time, was so impressed by the joy that Tammie got from her job as a balloon artist, he knew it was his destiny.

“Making balloons is emotional for Tammie because she loves how they bring joy to people of all ages,” he said.

“When Tam first launched Pimp My Balloons and I witnessed her returning home from work brimming with happiness, it instilled in me the confidence to embark on this adventure alongside her.”

Before long Trevor had jumped on board, starting with balloon twisting for parties before moving into the decorator space and focusing on large balloon sculptures and wearables.

These days balloons are the pair’s full-time passion, and they juggle being parents to their two-year-old daughter, Thaya, with creating balloon offerings for weddings, corporate decorations, retail decorations and bouquets, and ‘balloon-O-gram’ gift deliveries, as well as presenting balloon twisting entertainment for all kinds of celebrations.

“We are incredibly grateful for the remarkable support we receive from families and venues throughout the peninsula. However, despite the hectic schedule, we make it a priority to spend quality time as a family,” Tam said.

“Thaya, our little one, often accompanies us during installations. She eagerly observes and offers her ‘help’ whenever she can, sometimes even joining or assisting staff.”

Tammie, who describes herself as a latex manipulator, says choosing a favourite design is too hard from the thousands of creations they’ve made, but two recent top picks include a six metre-long by two and a half metre-wide rideable Santa Sleigh for Karingal Shopping Centre, and a five metre by ten metre Tiki god scene as the stage backdrop for the "Rock Ballarat" festival.

She said the couple like to “step outside the box” to create jawdropping pieces.

“Whatever you can imagine, we'll create it; imagination knows

Whatever you can imagine, we'll create it; imagination knows no boundaries

In some designs there’s almost an architectural and engineeringlike element to the art, with Trevor’s special skill linking balloons with a Z weave technique to create massive shapes, like the giant six metre plesiosaur he made for one of his winning Blow Up entries.

The couple have now developed their own clothing brand, Balloon Dog Apparel. Comfortable and colourful, their designs are loved by balloon artists and entertainers, and are hot sellers in Australia and overseas, where balloon artistry is big business.

The success and international recognition they have achieved has blown them both away, no pun intended, and balloon art has opened up their worlds. They have travelled through Europe, Canada and the USA with their work, and have been introduced to people and places they never thought possible.

The couple have also won local and international awards for their balloon work, including in Las Vegas in 2017 and the Australasian Balloon Designers of the Year 2019.

“When I started making a career out of balloons, I never imagined how far it could take me and that we would still be loving it and making a career out of it almost 20 years later,” Tammie said.

“We meet so many interesting people in this business; it’s a very welcoming industry full of wonderful people. It’s a family.”

Tammie says being part of the Blow Up series was a “once-in-a lifetime” opportunity to show the world what is possible to create with balloons and compete against some of the best balloon artists in the world.

She said that regardless of the end result, the competition was a huge win for the pair.

“We were so excited to show the Mornington Peninsula what we can create out of balloons and we thank everyone for their support, not only throughout the show but also over the past ten years.”

pimpmyballoons.com.au balloondogapparel.com

@pimp_my_balloons

@balloon_dog_apparel

Trevor Timmers created an incredible six metre ‘plesiosaur’ for Blow Up Australia, showcasing his skills, imagination and creativity

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS AND HEALS

Fred loves living back at home in his beloved suburb of Toorak in Melbourne. He returned home after two years of living in residential aged care and couldn’t be happier.

The 79-year-old's life took an unexpected turn when he fell at home and waited for 14 hours on the floor before he received help. Around this time, Fred received news his sister, Margot, was diagnosed with cancer, leaving her unable to support him.

After leaving the hospital, Fred moved into residential aged care. He soon felt alone and unable to do the familiar things he would normally do at home. The declining cognitive abilities of other residents left him feeling isolated, and Fred's doctor noticed his increasing dependence on the care team, and so he supported his desire to leave the residential facility.

Working together, his nephew and an aged care consultant, made practical changes to Fred’s house, and with regular nursing support from Silverchain Private Care, Fred was able to return to living independently at home.

Fred now appreciates the freedom to set his schedule and personalise his care, which he found challenging in residential aged care.

Dorothy Fuller, Director of Silverchain Private Care, said Fred’s experience offers hope to others facing similar circumstances emphasising that it is possible to transition out of residential aged care and reclaim one’s life choices.

“While the process may seem overwhelming, the freedom and autonomy gained make it all worthwhile,” Dorothy said.

W: silverchairprivate.org.au

Tailored in-home care without the wait

Tailored in-home care without the wait

Self fund your choice of health and aged care services at home.

Self fund your choice of health and aged care services at home.

If you’re looking for extra help at home, an alternative to residential aged care, post hospital support or daily nursing care, Silverchain Private Care can help.

If you’re looking for extra help at home, an alternative to residential aged care, post hospital support or daily nursing care, Silverchain Private Care can help.

Our clinically qualified care management team can design a tailored care plan, to provide you with the support you need when you need it, and to give you advice you can trust.

Our clinically qualified care management team can design a tailored care plan, to provide you with the support you need when you need it, and to give you advice you can trust.

As a leading provider of in-home health and aged care services, we’re here to support you and your family, so together we can continue to take care of your health, home and wellbeing.

As a leading provider of in-home health and aged care services, we’re here to support you and your family, so together we can continue to take care of your health, home and wellbeing.

Contact us today on 1300 771 872

Contact us today on 1300 771 872

Or visit our website silverchainprivate.org.au

Or visit our website silverchainprivate.org.au

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.

Our Service Team

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

DANCING soul

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Gary Sissons

Looking into the eyes of dance instructor Tomoko Inamura when she talks about contemporary dance, makes her dream visible. Her whole being lights up. Watching her dance is witnessing joy. While she didn’t become a professional dancer due to life circumstances, she is very much a contemporary dancer with her own unmistakable style. Tomoko is proud to bring her enthusiasm and joy into the classroom when she teaches dance.

Born in Mishima, Japan, a picturesque rural town with Mount Fuji over its shoulder, Tomoko’s life was upended when her engineer father accepted a job in Montgomery, Alabama. The family moved to a country that was completely foreign to them. Without a word of English, Tomoko had to start school in Year One. Most days she used her hall pass to go to the bathroom and cry, but within six months she learned to communicate in English.

That same year Tomoko started gymnastics. It gave her a sense of belonging as well as strength and coordination which proved useful later for dance. Her mother was a huge fan of Fred Astaire. Mother and daughter spent many happy hours watching old movies together. Tomoko thinks this is where her passion for dance was born.

When she was in Year 7, the family moved back to Japan and Tomoko had culture shock in reverse. The school year had already started and having spent her primary years in America, she was ill-prepared for the rigours of Japanese schooling. Once again, she rose to the occasion. Gymnastics throughout high school helped with social connection and confidence. She choreographed her first dance piece in Year 8.

When Tomoko went to Sophia University in Tokyo to get a degree in Business and Economics, she pivoted from gymnastics to dance re-igniting a passion that had been percolating since childhood.

Working in the Tokyo finance sector, she met her Australian husband to be. They became engaged and registered their marriage in Japan before he was transferred to Hong Kong for a great job opportunity. Their families met later in Bali for their marriage ceremony. Back in Hong Kong, Tomoko had to operate in another foreign culture and learn another new language. Again, she met the challenge. continued page 26...

Due to an economic downturn, Tomoko was made redundant from her job, but as the world of high finance in Hong Kong was very maledominated, she was happy to leave it behind. It was serendipitous because a month later, she found out she was pregnant with their first child. A second child followed, then a third. Life became very busy.

A pivotal moment came after her third child was born. Tomoko opened her own dance school in Hong Kong, teaching children jazz and contemporary dance. “Through teaching I developed my own dance style. Having the freedom to choreograph what I wanted to do was amazing,” she says.

When COVID hit in March 2020, Tomoko and her husband thought it would be safest to move the family back to Australia. They chose Mount Eliza and lockdowns kept them there. Tomoko continued teaching her students via Zoom. Though they expected to return to Hong Kong, they decided to stay in Mount Eliza. Culture shock number three plus lockdowns took a toll.

Lockdown six brought major depression, but escaping into movement in her home dance studio lifted Tomoko out of it. When businesses started opening up, she began teaching Zumba - a gateway into teaching dance again. “I like Zumba because it’s got so many dance styles incorporated into it from merengue and salsa to hip hop and belly dance and everything in between,” she says. Tomoko also choreographs her Zumba classes which has proved a lot of fun, though her greatest joy still comes from contemporary dance.

You can be free with your expressions in movement and interpret the music any way you like

“At heart, I’m a lyrical contemporary dancer. I like conveying a message so each movement has meaning and builds on the one before it. I love contemporary because it mixes all the foundation dances. You can be free with your expressions in movement and interpret the music any way you like,” she says.

Tomoko works at a number of gyms in Frankston and on the peninsula teaching Core and Mobility, Barre Pilates, Zumba and Aqua Zumba – all with a dancer’s flair. She has a real knack for showing people how to move correctly, safely and, of course, with style and grace. Tomoko’s students love her and are not shy about expressing their gratitude for the joy she brings through dance.

dancingsoultomoko.com

@dancingsoultomoko

FRANKSTON AUCTION MART

QUIRKY quintessence

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Gary Sissons

WhenSafety Beach artist Jenny Wood was diagnosed with an aggressive, rare breast cancer in 2014, art helped her cope. She started drawing during chemotherapy sessions which she found very therapeutic. “Art was a catalyst for changing my life,” she says. She also wrote a cancer blog called dishmoptop.com to track her journey and support other friends battling cancer, but it grew into the public sphere attracting 145,000 readers.

After diagnosis, Jenny changed career paths to became a fulltime artist. “Art is a drug to me. I don’t watch telly and I get up at 5am. It’s not because I’m disciplined; it’s more because I’m driven. Art is like an itch that I have to scratch. I don’t start a project until I’ve worked it out in my head and then I’m like a woman possessed” she says.

Before art, Jenny was a freelance information technology specialist. Amazingly, she has no formal training in IT. She’s just a natural, like her step-father, who never once hired a tradesman or a mechanic. He took everything apart and worked out how to fix it. This skill rubbed off on Jenny. That’s the way she works with technology. She sticks with it until she figures it out. You can see some of that technical interest in her steampunk art.

Jenny worked for 25 years in managing disability services prior to working in IT. Then she taught disability workers at university. That’s when she began to morph into IT because she was putting courses online and teaching teachers how to use technology. Finding a passion there, she went out on her own as a tech specialist or ‘computer geek’ as she says.

continued next page...

As a child, Jenny was always tinkering, making and drawing. Her Mum was very creative, but Jenny takes after her birth father who died when Jenny was one. He was artistic. Mum provided materials for creative exploration. Her parents bought Jenny a pottery wheel which got plenty of use. She tie-dyed her bedroom curtains to match her bedspread and painted her own room. Growing up in a remote area of East Gippsland, the only art tutoring Jenny had arrived with the much-anticipated Art Train that rolled into Orbost once a year.

While Jenny has exhibited her work in gallery spaces, her favourite place to display her art is at Artisan’s Alley in Mornington where her drawings, ceramics and greeting cards are wildly popular. “Artisan’s Alley is actually life changing for artists because of the support they give each other and the social connections. It’s a funny, friendly, happy bunch,” she says. She has also been displaying and selling her art at Dromana Indoor Market for six years.

Working in pen and ink is Jenny’s favourite medium. She likes the ways she can layer ink. It’s more fluid than watercolour. She loves ceramics. “There is something incredibly therapeutic about clay. I particularly like sculpting rather than making functional things,” she says. Jenny likes dabbling in acrylics and scratch-boarding too.

“I really enjoying making things that are outside the square. I’ve always had a really good imagination. My brain is like a propeller

that doesn’t stop. For me, inspiration is internal. The impulse to create comes suddenly and out of the blue,” she says. Mostly Jenny works from her prodigious imagination, but sometimes she uses photos for reference, just for accuracy.

When she moved to the Mornington Peninsula six years ago, Jenny started illustrating books. Just before she was diagnosed, she was half way through a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with some visual media units and was starting a Bachelor of Illustration; she had to stop for cancer treatment. She didn’t need the degrees. She is very successful without them. “90% of my art is sold before I finish it. I put it on Instagram while I’m in progress so people can see it in all its stages, but most of the time, it’s already sold before I’m done,” she says.

Whether she’s illustrating a children’s book, working on a painting, crafting quirky ceramics or creating a meticulously detailed drawing, Jenny becomes totally engrossed in a project. Art has carried her through when times were tough.

“I’m proud of the fact that I had a huge obstacle in my life and I changed my life to make it the happiest it could be,” she says. That’s an art in itself.

jennywoodart.com

For me, inspiration is internal. The impulse to create comes suddenly and out of the blue

Cranbourne will come alive on Saturday 25th November when the City of Casey’s biggest social and sporting event takes place – the Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup. This spectacular event continues to grow and it now sits rightfully as a standalone metropolitan race meeting in the Spring Carnival.

Organisers are anticipating another high class field to contest the $500,000 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup, which will be supported with an outstanding undercard including the Procon Development Apache Cat Classic for the sprinters, the Rosemont Stud Fillies and Mares Pendant, and the Freeway Ford Shooting Star.

Hospitality packages are now available and selling fast. Whether you’re looking to entertain clients, reward employees, celebrate a special event, or just want to enjoy a day at the races with friends, the Cranbourne Cup delivers. Book via phone or on the website.

PINKER PINKER GIRLS NIGHT OUT

One of the region’s biggest and best fundraising events takes place at the launch of Cranbourne’s Friday night racing season on 13th October – the Pinker Pinker Girls Night Out.

Hosted by former AFL star, musician and media personality Russell Robertson, this year’s event will once again raise funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

For $125 guests will enjoy a three course meal, beer, wine, cider, sparkling and soft drink package, live music from the Andrew Wishart trio as well as have the chance to bid on auction items, buy raffle tickets and more in support of an outstanding cause.

This event traditionally sells out early so be quick to secure your seats. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Call Rowan Wilson to find out more.

5996 1300

P: 5996 1300

W: cranbourneturfclub.com.au

P:

LIGHTS, CAMERA cook!

By Muriel Cooper Photos Yanni

Fromhis Mt Martha home award-winning filmmaker and chef Joel Meille, reaches over three million viewers worldwide with his cooking and travel blog Recipe30. Joel decided to combine his two passions, filmmaking and cooking, and it started all when he bought a pizza oven kit.

"I thought I'd film it and put it on YouTube for my friends and family, and maybe someone would watch it, and it would help them to assemble their oven. It started getting some traction, and I thought, “That's interesting; people really love pizza ovens,” he says, grinning. "When I reached a thousand subscribers, they gave me fifty cents a day, and I thought, “Wow!” I was excited about fifty cents a day. I thought, “I can buy a cup of coffee every week now because of my pizza oven.”

Filmmaking called him back for four years then he returned to YouTube when he was between filmmaking projects. He thought, "I'm going to do this seriously now," and it took off.

Recipe 30 is about producing restaurant-quality meals in 30 minutes.

Joel says, "Most people think cooking is complicated, but once started realise it doesn't have to be. Too many recipes are overcomplicated these days with too many ingredients, exotic spices and things people don't understand and don't have in their pantries.

"Originally, the recipes were 30 seconds long, but it got to the point where a 30-second video just didn't work; – it was too rushed. Everything feels rushed these days. People need to go into the kitchen and use it as meditation and mindfulness because cooking is mindful meditation. When I'm cooking, sometimes I listen to soft music or just nothing – I just listen to the sounds, smell the smells, and feel the textures of the food. It puts me in a different state of mind and removes all the stress. People often do it the other way around; they come home and make cooking stressful."

These days thanks to the internet and social media, Joel has over three million viewers. He says, "It's hard to grasp what a million people is – or three million. I just see it as numbers; I don't really understand it. It blows my mind a bit, but it's a nice feeling to know from the comments I receive that I'm helping people; that makes me happy."

As a travel blogger and chef Joel has been to some exotic places such as India and Southeast Asia. Does he have a favourite?

"It's hard to pick a favourite because every place brings me something new. I learn not only about food but about people and their culture. In the poorer areas, I can see that people are sometimes happier than in the more affluent areas, and they are generous; – they invite you for dinner or a cup of tea and expect nothing in return."

continued next page ...

Most people think cooking is complicated but once started realise it doesn’t have to be

Multi-skilled, Joel does everything himself for his Recipe30 videos and makes them look effortless. "It's hard and good at the same time,"Joel explains. "I like to have full control because I love all the aspects of it: – the camera work, the cooking and the editing, and I couldn"t imagine giving anyone of those tasks to anybody else. People tell me, "You could grow fast into a big business, and I probably could, but I don't want to be a big production company –I'm just happy being the way I am. I have a simple life, and I enjoy everything I do, from travel to cooking, I don't need to expand."

Joel does have an assistant; his Collie dog Whisky. Joel says the reaction to Whisky has been very positive. "Unfortunately," he grins. "I featured him once just looking at the camera, and viewers said, “We'd like to see the dog again,” so I put him in another time, and suddenly there was an audience there – not for the recipes but just to see Whisky. So Whisky has become famous and appears in the videos almost more than I do. He's such a recognisable figure; – I should use him as my logo. If I don"t feature him, I get complaints. I know I've influenced many people overseas to buy Collies."

What is it about the peninsula, and Mt Martha in particular, attracts Joel?

“For me, it's the sea; – and that from my house, I can walk to the beach, farmland, a boardwalk, a little village, and I can't find that anywhere else. It's relaxed. I love the fresh air, especially after returning from India; – it's made me appreciate where I live ten times more. Also, it's got more of a European feel, and the produce is getting better and better. There are nice restaurants and vineyards. You've got everything nearby. Where else do you get that?"

Joel doesn't like to be called an influencer. "It didn't bother me in the beginning, but now when you think of an influencer you just think of… um… I'm trying to think of how to say it politely. I like to be described as a content creator rather than an influencer because I want people to feel influenced to create and not to buy things."

recipe30.com

youtube.com/@recipe30

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recipe

CHICKEN FRANCAISE

EGG DIPPED CHICKEN BREAST IN TANGY, BUTTERY SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 chicken breasts

• Half cup plain flour

• 2 eggs

• 1 handful of fresh parsley

• 50g - 2oz parmesan cheese

• 1 cup white wine

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 1 garlic clove

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 4 tbsp butter

• Half lemon

• Salt and pepper

METHOD

1. Crack the eggs into a large enough dish to fit chicken breast, seasoning eggs with salt and pepper, give them a light beat.

2. Chop the parsley finely (keep a few sprigs for garnish) and add half to egg mixture.

3. Grate all the parmesan cheese finely and add to egg mixture, mix well. Set aside.

4. Remove chicken skin if any, then butterfly cut your breast. Hold a long sharp knife along the thicker part of the breast, place your hand on top and slice through the breast almost until the end. Cut parallel to your cutting board, and open the breast like a book. Place cling film on a board, add your breast spread open, sandwich it in cling film and flatten the thicker side using the flat side of a meat mallet or the underside of a saucepan.

5. Get your wine and chicken stock portions ready.

6. Add the plain flour to a plate, spread it out flat by shaking plate.

7. Peel the garlic and place in garlic press (or chop finely).

8. To a frying pan on moderate heat, add the olive oil and half the butter.

9. Coat the chicken in the flour, shake off any excess flour.

10. Dip the chicken in the egg wash, make sure it’s totally covered and place in hot oil

11. Cook chicken for approx. 4 minutes each side (depending on thickness). Flip over once brown and cook the other side. Transfer chicken to a hot plate and rest.

12. To the same frying pan on full heat, add the white wine (alcohol can catch fire so be careful, turn off heat first if unsure). Add the chicken stock. Add the crushed garlic. Add the squeeze of half a lemon. Leave to reduce 2 minutes on high heat.

13. Add the remaining half of chopped parsley. Add the remainder of butter and mix until butter is melted on very low heat.

14. Return the chicken to the sauce and continue heating chicken on low heat no more than 30 seconds.

Serve the chicken on warm plates garnished with parsley.

There are many elements that need to be carefully considered when thinking of buying, building or altering a chicken coop. In the second of our 3-part Winter Series, we look into some myths and misconceptions, information that you need to know, and best practices with chicken coops.

Myths and Misconceptions

Myth: You need a dirt floor for the run so that hens can scratch around.

Facts: Hens are quite happy digging through and dust bathing in wood shavings. Droppings that land on dirt won’t compost quickly so attract flies and smell a lot! Straw or hay doesn’t help much and droppings containing parasitic worms and pathogens such as Salmonella are distributed to other flock members by hens stepping in them and spreading them.

Myth: Chicken runs don’t need to be covered or waterproof.

Facts: Dampness supports pathogens and chooks will dig into the dirt to create holes that fill with water when it rains. They then happily drink the water which quickly becomes contaminated with their droppings. It also isn’t possible to use wood shavings or material that rapidly breaks down their droppings into compost so their manure builds-up along with ammonia levels, pathogen and parasite loads.

Myth: You need to have one nest box for each hen in the flock.

Facts: Chickens are flock animals so love doing everything together which includes where they lay. They lay at different times which means that only a single next box is needed for up to 7-hens.

Myth: Foxes don’t come out during the day so a run without a roof is fine.

Facts: Foxes absolutely DO come out during the daytime and are excellent climbers. This means that your flock won’t be safe if contained in a chicken run without a roof.

Myth: A tree branch is best to use as perches in the coop.

Facts: Tree branches will vary in size along their length and can contain bends and nodules. This variation can cause discomfort and uneven pressure on the chicken’s foot pad increasing the risk of foot issues/damage. Many tree branches are happy habitats for red mite as well who live in the wood and happily hop straight onto the hens.

Discover coop myths & best practices at our Winter Series event! Boost hen happiness & coop success with expert tips. Don't miss out!

Winter Series Presentations on Backyard Hens:

Part 1 - How to Successfully Keep Backyard Chickens - for those new to chickens (Past Event was held Sunday 18 June 2023)

Part 2 - Best Practices with Backyard Chicken Coops

Sunday 16 July 2023 at 2pm

Part 3 - Maintaining a Healthy and Happy Backyard Flock over Time!

Sunday 20 Aug 2023 at 2pm

Purchase tickets at Talking Hens website under the events menu. TalkingHens.com.au

Tyabb

Tyabb is a township in a semi-rural location, 57km and an one hour drive from Melbourne. It has an area of 66.5 km2 and is part of the urban enclave on Western Port comprising Tyabb, Hastings, Bittern, Crib Point, and Somerville.

• Once, the heart of the apple growing industry, Tyabb is now Victoria's antique wonderland. Most of the town's main street is lined with quality antique stores, and just around the corner are some larger Antique stores. There is also a quaint craft village that houses even more antiques along with a myriad of arts and crafts.

• The local area was well known as a fruit growing area in the early twentieth century and was identified by the "TYCOS" brand, which was the name used by the local growers co-operative.

• Tyabb is well known for its many antique shops. The largest, the Tyabb Packing House Antique complex is housed in an historic cool store building dating from the area's fruit growing past. The Tyabb Packing House Antique complex reputedly has one of the largest retail antique collections under one roof in the southern hemisphere. There are several other antique shops in the Tyabb township.

• Tyabb Airport, a private airfield which has been operating for more than thirty years. The airfield provides access to the area for emergency services as well as a successful flying school. Tyabb Airport hosts an internationally recognised Air Show every second year, showcasing a collection of important and unique antique and warbird aircraft.

Coffee Safari

• Tyabb is one of the few towns in Australia that does not have a pub. Although the town is over 100 years old it has never had a pub, however two liquor vendors are operating in the town.

• The Post Office opened on 9 March 1891 shortly after the arrival of the railway in 1889.

• Tyabb has given its name to the Tyabb Fault, an ancient geological formation extending from Tyabb across the Peninsula to Mornington, and Tyabb Loam, the characteristic soil of the district. The Tyabb Fault produces many small earthquakes throughout the year.

• It is thought that the name 'Tyabb' was derived from an Aboriginal word describing waterholes or a mud hole.

• In 1861 a Tyabb township was proclaimed immediately north of present day Hastings, later known as Old Tyabb Township.

• In the last decade there has been rapid residential development in the town, changing its rural character. has its own cricket and football teams known as the Yabbies competing in the Mornington

• Median house price for Tyabb is $792,500 and median rent is $580 per week.

• The population of Tyabb is estimated to be 3,449 according to the 2021 census.

Fresh brewed coffee and food is a must have for weekends. Here's are just a few to check out in Tyabb next time you visit this beautiful location on the peninsula.

Rattling Red Cafe

14A MORNINGTON-TYABB RD

A unique cafe/kiosk experience that's great for all ages. The train is located at the rear of the Tyabb Packing House and Anitques centre. Tuck yourself into a cabin for a Devonshire Tea and a bit of peace and quiet, or sit out on the deck/platform while watching your children play in the central garden. Well behaved dogs are also welcome.

Mitch & Co Cafe

1552 FRANKSTON-FLINDERS RD

Coffee and Australian inspired cuisine to please the palate. Serving pies, poached eggs and burrito bowls, tasty, savoury pancake stacks and muffins in a warm relaxing atmosphere.

Prodigal Coffee Roasters

1549 FRANKSTON-FLINDERS RD

Local roaster producing fresh coffee beans, killer coffee, toasties, and milkshakes coupled with great service and good vibes.

What to do

Whether it’s visiting the many antiques and collectibles stores in the heart of Tyabb, strolling down the main shopping strip which retains its old world charm, or checking out the fabulous Tyabb Airfield and all its vintage planes, there is always something to do in this charming town where you feel like you have stepped back in time.

Photos Yanni

Corner Puzzle

ACROSS

1. TV talk program (4,4)

5. Foreseeing

11. Musical composition

15. Period

16. His Royal Highness (1,1,1)

17. Poorly dressed child

19. Severe

21. Ice boot

23. Wounded by blade

25. Army clergyman

27. Informing (on)

28. Cheyenne dwelling

30. Unwanted fat

31. Largest US state

32. Post-lunch snooze

33. Prima donna

34. Sandcastle moulds

35. Pirates Of The Caribbean star, ... Bloom

36. Frontiersman, ... Crockett

38. Non-commissioned officers (1,1,2)

40. Discard

42. Captures (criminal)

44. Single-sound source

45. Swoon

46. Shark relatives

48. Consecrate as priest

49. Clump

50. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco

51. Midriff regions

52. Wharf 53. Tardy 54. Apex 55. Apple Inc device 56. Parchment roll 58. Court fines

59. Mideast shipping passage (3,3)

61. Assent 63. Irish movement (1,1,1) 64. Possess 65. Pointer, ... finger 67. Corrosive fluids 69. Sapphire or diamond 71. Still 73. Old-fashioned, behind the ... 74. Happens next 76. Putrid

Watered by tube 80. Flower holder 82. Highly excited 83. Entertainer 85. Exertions 89. Aural orifice

91. Hebrew farewell

93. British medal (1,1,1)

94. Hamper

96. Doubt innocence of

98. And so forth

99. That woman's

100. Harangues

102. More agile

103. Alfresco

104. Reversing the effects of

105. Global navigation system (1,1,1)

106. Dubai's neighbour, ... Dhabi

107. Unwelcome guest, ... non grata

108. Reach destination

110. Munch

112. Maiden (poetic)

114. Defeat by small margin (4,3)

117. Stops

120. Elusive

123. Black & white ocean mammal

125. Tibet's Dalai ...

127. Short-term clerical employees

128. Unfasten (brooch)

131. Outward show

133. Woollen garments

134. Baffling question

135. Brought under control

136. Witch's hex

137. Gangsters, Bonnie & ...

140. Liqueur, ... Maria

141. A duo

142. Blind Faith author, Ben

145. Wattle tree 147. Scarper 148. Courteous 150. Swirl 151. Cereal bowl

152. Perfume base 153. Fault 154. Disperse 156. Computer symbol

158. As soon as possible (1,1,1,1)

160. Barrel tap

162. Prayer's final word

163. Sandy coast

164. Salver

165. Executed queen, Lady ... Grey 166. Castrate

167. Piano ivories 168. Daunts

2.

3.

6.

7.

70. Garret

72. Keen to impress (5,2,6)

73. Diaphanous

75. Astronaut, ... Armstrong

77. Gain

79. Tailors

81. Weep convulsively

84. Explode inwards

85. Came to light

86. Sharpens view

87. Warms up again

88. Swathes

90. Funeral vehicles

92. Fossilised resin

95. Extinct birds

97. World news service (1,1,1)

101. Fury

109. Formerly Persia

111. Melody

113. Merge

115. Crippled

116. As a gamble (2,4)

118. Back gate

119. Amphibian

121. Lower leg bracelet

122. Ignoramus

124. Reductions

126. Famous Greek stories (5'1,6)

129. Wrecking

130. Excused

131. Response (from consumers)

132. Goes

138. Pretentious (2-2-2)

139. Fantasist

143. Southpaw (4-6)

144. Filmy

146. Brainwave

149. Sanction

155. Reinforced compounds

157. Bound

159. Clipped (sheep)

161. Crested parrots

165. Gin berry

169. Cruel people

171. Robberies

172. Distracted

175. About-face (1-4)

176. Undue speed

177. Here, ... & everywhere

178. Soprano solos

181. Ellipse

184. Castro's land

186. Mischievous sprite

190. Record label (1,1,1)

See page 58 for solution

A FRUITFUL journey

By Peter McCullough Photos Yanni & Supplied

TheTyabb Packing House Antiques is home to more than 20 dealers, all specialists in their fields and many of whom have over 40 years’ experience. Their friendliness creates a warm, chatty atmosphere as you get lost in browsing. The main complex is designed so each separate chamber flows into the other, and you end up back at the start after doing a full circuit. Take note of the names of each room which pay homage to the orchardists who

leased the rooms before its evolution to present day. Each chamber is still marked with the name of a type of apple or pear – Jonathan and Democrat among the list of fruits. The ‘shed’ is joined by a separate group of dealerships called ‘The Village,’ home to artisans and creative specialists. Come along on the grand journey of the Tyabb Packing House, who’s walls along with its tenants have many stories to tell.

continued page 44 ...

STEP 1

THE TYABB CO-OPERATIVE & COOL STORES LTD.

In 1912 the Tyabb and Hastings Fruit Growers Association was successful in gaining approval for a government cool store and construction was completed in 1914. It was not an auspicious start: the 78,000 gallon dam was dry and there was a total failure of the fruit crop. The spare space was filled with frozen mutton. Arrangements were soon made for the enterprise to be transferred to the local growers and on 1 July 1916 the Tyabb Co-operative Trading and Cool Stores Ltd. commenced operation.

The difficult start notwithstanding, the Board added two more chambers to the original three in 1916 with three chambers filled with frozen lamb and rabbits in 1918. This was something of a pattern; expand when there was a good year and fill the spare space with frozen meat or vegetables when the crops were affected by adverse climatic conditions (such as the drought of 1939) or pests (thrip in 1949). The RAN, which must have had a number of Irish recruits in the post-war years, were of assistance in 1951-2-3 when they required storage for potatoes!

In 1927 shareholders voted in favour of establishing a Grading and Packing Shed and this proved a great success; the figures for

1955, when fruit growing in the district was probably at its peak were 89,021 cases packed including 14,706 cases of pears and apples for export. The success of the Packing Shed created another problem which was solved in 1937 when sawmill activities commenced to ensure a reliable supply of fruit cases.

The Board was made up of local fruit growers who were elected and, as anyone who has served on community committees will attest, there can be some awkward moments. Two local historians recorded the sort of problems which can arise: “Minutes from meeting, April 1930 – ‘The incident in which a shareholder made a complaint against the Engineer was further discussed and Mr. Hutchison moved that the Engineer be written to stating that the Board was of the opinion that possibly he suffered provocation, but that they were not in accord with him using bad language to a shareholder.’ (Leila Shaw : ‘She’s Apples.’) and “June 1932 – ‘A number of complaints had been received regarding the theft of fruit from the cool store and, in an effort to combat this, permission had to be obtained from the Engineer before fruit could be removed by any person who was not a shareholder.’“

(Keith C. Cole : ‘The History of Tyabb Cool Store.’)

continued page 46 ...

If you love movies you’ll love SilverScreen!

Specialising in original old and modern movie posters, movie memorabilia, lobby cards and comics, along with difficult to find DVDs, Disney and Beatrix Potter, limited edition figurines and statues.

We ANTIQUES, JEWELLERY, FURNITURE, COLLECTABLES & MORE AT THE TYABB PACKING SHED 14 MORNINGTON-TYABB RD, TYABB - THURS, FRI, SAT & SUN 10AM TO 5PM

STEP 2

TYABB (Co-op) HARDWARE & PRODUCE.

As far back as the 1950’s there had been an emphasis on ‘trading’ when the industry had been having a lean year. This trend increased as the number of orchards diminished and in 1974 the Board decided to build a new hardware store on a block they had purchased on the corner of The Crescent and Frankston-Flinders Road.

The hardware shop was opened in December 1974, a State Savings Bank agency was included in the following February, and early sales were promising. However, by 1979 it was recorded that trading in the Cool Store shop was strong and that cash sales were a new record, but the Frankston-Flinders Road shop did not trade so well. By the end of that year, because of the decline in fruit supply, it was decided to cease Packing Shed operations. The decision was also made to close the store on the main road and relocate all trading to the Packing Shed. A sign was placed on the southern end of the building: TYABB (Co-op) HARDWARE & PRODUCE.

Fruit production continued to decline and the cool storage operations ceased in 1983.The Board saw its future in the Trading Shop. Although it carried a good range of stock and was able to provide a more personal service, the shop proved to be no match for the larger hardware complexes in the neighbouring towns. In March 1993 it was recorded that due to less rural activity, more urbanization and diminishing trading productivity, the shareholders decided to empower the Board of Directors to wind up the company.

continued page 48...

Tyabb (co-op) hardware & produce interior circa 1970s

Tyabb (co-op) circa 1970s

JIM BOLAND METAL

STEP 3

TYABB PACKING HOUSE ANTIQUES.

Between 1980 and 1993 Sheila Martland and her husband Gerard were the proprietors of Moorooduc Antiques & Old Wares Market located in what had been the Moorooduc Cool Store. With the winding up of operations at the Tyabb Cool Store in 1993, the opportunity arose for the Martlands to move their business to a more suitable venue. Even though extensive renovation and building work was needed to add emergency exits, lighting, windows, and fire equipment, most of the building’s original features were maintained. The original cooling pipes remain intact, floorboards still have the remains of white guidelines which indicated where farmers were to place their fruit, and chambers and spaces within Tyabb Packing House Antiques were named after apple and pear varieties.

Many of the dealers based at Moorooduc made the move to Tyabb and for some this was quite a task; ‘Book Browser’ had to relocate 20.000 books! Although some of those dealers have been replaced in the ensuing 30 years, a few of the originals can still be found at Tyabb. ‘Book Browser’ is still there, as are sisters Dianne and Roslyn who are the proprietors of ‘White Out of the Box’ and ‘Antique Bed Specialists’ respectively. They have a sentimental attachment to the building as they recall visiting there with their father (the late Ron Benton) in the Cool Store days.

The move to Tyabb was a great success with the Herald Sun going so far on the 25 June, 1995 to report that “..Tyabb has the largest antique market in the world.” (Leila Shaw, ibid.) Shortly after the opening, Tyabb Grain Store, a separate building

at the rear, was renovated. This building, and a ‘red rattler’ train carriage brought from Moorooduc, were the beginning of the formation of Tyabb Craft Village, a location for specialty arts and crafts artisans.

This popular tourist attraction with on-site cafe is dedicated to antiques, deco, old wares, scientific, retro and vintage, along with memorabilia, fine art, jewellery and a second-hand bookshop covering every subject. The Range and quality of antique furniture at Packing House Antiques has never been better and customers will find that this is an ideal time to search for that much longed-for item.

There is free parking for over 300 cars, plus spaces for trailers and bus parking. There is also an entrance from the Tyabb railway station (on the stony point train line).

tyabbpackinghouseantiques.com.au @tyabbpackinghouseantiques.com.au

THE TYABB TRAINING FARM PROJECT

By Peter McCullough

DURINGthe 1960’s the Prahran Methodist Mission, assisted by the local community, undertook this project which involved thousands of working hours freely given by children, teenagers, and adults.

Origins

In 1958 77-year old John Barclay made available his farm at Tyabb to the Prahran Methodist Mission and Christian Community Centre to assist them in their youth programme. The farm, which had been in the possession of the Barclay family for 100 years, consisted of 75 acres, 34 acres of which was uncleared. The property abutted the sea and a further 25 acres along the water’s edge, subject to tidal variation, was leased from the Lands Department for a nominal rental.

A panel of local farmers and businessmen, under the leadership of Harold Thornell, a Tyabb real estate agent, was set up to assist the Prahran Methodist Mission in the development of the project.

Before long regular organized working bees commenced. It was the policy of the Mission to link the educational, recreational and worship programme with physical labour.

Enter the Davidsons

all my life, and I want to help the Mission.” This was Ken’s practical and rather shy way of saying he had received a call of God.

Those in charge did their best to discourage him: the farm was in a run-down condition, there was no house in which to live, virtually no capital and little security. On top of all that, Ken would have to give up plans to build his own home. But Ken was not to be denied; he felt committed, as did his fiancee.

Ken Davidson and his fiancee, Dorothy Cooper, attended the Mission’s Youth Group in Prahran. The project was still getting underway when Ken offered to give up his job as a bricklayer to manage the farm. In his own words, “I have wanted to be a farmer continued next page...

Above: Work day on the farm: John Barclay (left) and Ken Davidson (right) at the Tyabb Training Farm Project Below: Examining the plans for the project with the Mayor of Prahan, George Gahan

Ken and Dorothy were married on 1 November, 1958 and moved into a house in Hastings which a supporter of the project had made available rent free for a year. Ken immediately immersed himself in the first task which was to cut hay for the cows that were still to come. He was assisted in this task by local man Dave Barclay who enquired as to whether Ken might be interested in a game of cricket. And so began Ken’s association as the spin bowler for Tyabb Cricket Club which extended over thirty seasons ( 1958/59 to 1987/88 ). Ken was always readily identifiable on the field; he never removed his cap, even when bowling! While Ken was rolling his arm over, Dot was kept busy in the capacity of meticulous team scorer for many years.

While primarily a bowler, Ken was capable, if dogged, with the bat. In his 314 games he scored 4481 runs, with a highest score of 84 and passing 50 on 17 occasions. Rather amazingly, he was not out 77 times in his 328 innings. As a bowler he took 517 wickets, including three hat tricks. His best figures were 7 for 21 and he had a bowling average of 14.79.

These figures were supplied by Doug Dyall, long-time statistician at the Tyabb Cricket Club, who added “Ken was a great advocate for juniors and often took on leadership roles in the seconds and thirds to encourage and promote youth, and many players at Tyabb Cricket Club over the years would remember fondly that it was Ken Davidson who gave them their start in the game and showed them how to enjoy the game in a sportsmanlike manner. In 1973/74 he led the seconds to a premiership. Ken is remembered at Tyabb Cricket Club as one of the greats both on and off the field.” Finally, Doug has recounted a story which is part of the folklore at Tyabb Cricket Club: how two fairly ordinary batsmen pulled of a remarkable victory.

As well as his contribution on the field, Ken was a member of the Tyabb Cricket Club committee for 29 seasons and at various times filled the positions of President, Secretary, and Treasurer. He was made a life member of the club in 1969/70. So significant was his contribution that the Tyabb Cricket Club still awards the Ken Davidson trophy each year to the best clubman.

Above: Ken and Dorothy’s wedding day in November 1958

Above: 1973/74 Premiership Seconds: (Back) Kevin Strange, Ken Davidson, Bert Duyvestyn, Phillip Smedley, Glenn Murray, Ron Gleeson, Ian Summers, Bob Kilner. (Front) Mark Summers, Edgar Slocombe, Richard Francis (capt), Peter Morone, Geoff Stockton.

Below: 1977/78 Thirds team with Ken as captain: (Back) Robert Summers, Tony Coelli, Ian Ladiges, Brendon Shaw, Lee Murray, Allan Summers. (Front) Graeme Leerson, Chris Horton, Neville Fisher, Russell Slocombe, Ken Davidson.

Stage 1

The first priority was the building of a cottage on the farm for the Davidsons. An anonymous supporter’s donation of 1000 pounds, together with news that a Davidson baby was on the way, gave the project some impetus.

It was decided to build the cottage by voluntary labour and on 27 June, 1959 fifty tradesman and helpers began at 8 a.m. to build the cottage to lock-up stage in a day. All gave their services entirely voluntarily and brought all kinds of modern machinery to help them in their work. With such a big team, the ladies were kept busy providing sandwiches and drinks. T.V. Cameras recorded the progress throughout the day, and by nightfall the outside of the building was complete and has the first coat of paint.

Then began a race to finish the interior; all was completed so that Ken and Dot could move in with a fortnight to spare before the arrival of Gary 15 October, 1959.

Work began immediately on a modern brick dairy, which made good use of Ken’s bricklaying expertise, while clearing and fencing work continued. During 1959 a party of Wesley College schoolboys travelled across from the Youth Camp at Somers every day for a week to help. This was part of their community service programme and a garage was the end result. Then a gift of 200 pounds was sufficient to purchase a reconditioned tractor.

With the completion of the brick dairy the farm was in production, and Stage 1 was officially opened on 28 February, 1960.

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Above: The giant working bee in June 1959

Below: The finished product

Bottom: The modern brick dairy, built by Ken

Stage 2

A good herd was a priority but funds were limited. Then in June, 1960 a supporter opened an opportunity shop, first in Box Hill and then in Boronia. Run by volunteers, this provided a great boon to the project, enabling the purchase of milking machines (650 pounds), a rotary hoe (125), chain saw (125), pump (300), polythene hose and fittings (90), and four cows (over 300 pounds).

In May, 1961 a prefabricated steel hayshed valued at 1000 pounds was donated and in September of that year an anonymous gift of 4000 pounds enabled a start to be made on the building of the hall and accommodation quarters.

Meanwhile, Joanne Davidson was born on 30 November, 1961.

In January, 1962 an opportunity shop was opened at McKinnon with half of the proceeds to go to the Tyabb Training Farm Project, and the following month a group of Korumburra farmers donated seventeen jersey heifer calves.

Throughout 1962 regular monthly working bees from Prahran pushed on with the building programme, and a youth group from Kaniva gave a week’s work; this was a first for the farm.

16 March, 1963 was a gala day at the farm with the opening of Stage 2. The International Harvester Company put on a demonstration of farm machinery which was of special interest to local farmers. All youth groups who had undertaken work days on the farm, including the Kaniva group, were present, as were members of the regular working bees. Two hundred pensioners from Prahran came down for a day’s picnic outing. There was a barbeque tea followed by evening entertainment of films and dancing in the new recreational hall.

The Farm in Operation

Over the next few years the farm was able to realize its objective and provide accommodation for youth groups and boys who were orphans, may have been neglected, or in need of rehabilitation. In its first summer the farm provided six weeks of accommodation for Peter, an aboriginal boy from central Australia. Although numbers were generally limited to about six, as many as sixteen could be accommodated in the dormitory if a youth group visited, and even more could sleep in the hall if the need arose.

The project’s success notwithstanding, there was a struggle to achieve all those items which were necessary to complete Stage 2: furniture for the lounge room, stack-up chairs for the recreation hall, cutlery and crockery, and so the list goes on.

For most of the 1960’s Ken Davidson battled on as manager of the project with up to twenty cows being milked twice a day. Dot also assisted in the day-to-day operations, mainly in a “house mother” role. However enthusiasm towards working bees dwindled - the project was after all a long way from Prahran - and the farm was always short of funds.

Eventually Ken was forced to obtain part-time employment so he drove a truck between milkings.

Top: Ken and John Barclay feeding the hefers

Above: A group of residents, including Peter from central Australia

Below: The recreation hall, completion of Stage 2

The End of the Tyabb Training Farm Project

Although Ken kept milking cows until 1969, the lack of financial support forced the closure of the farm. In addition, much of the land was torn up so that pipes could be laid for the new Esso complex. The cottage and hall were transported to the Mission’s Youth Camp at Somers and most of the equipment was disposed of at a clearing sale.

Below: The hall on the way to Somers

Ken Davidson worked full time in the trucking business for the rest of his working life, firstly with local Max Christie and then with Mayne Nickless/Vic. State Transport. Dot, freed of her responsibilities as well, worked in the packing shed at Seller Brothers Orchards for seventeen years.

After renting for twelve months following the closure of the farm, the Davidsons moved to their new home in Tyabb where Dot still lives. Ken died in 2009 at the age of 75.

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The Triumph of the Tail-Enders

ONE of Ken’s most memorable innings came in the round nine match of the 1966/67 season against top of the table, and eventual premiers, Mt. Eliza.

Mt. Eliza batted first and made 215 on the first day at Tyabb, and were expected to bowl the struggling Tyabb side out for an easy victory.

Ron Slocombe batted well for 46, but Tyabb were nine for 190 when John Thornell was out for 15. Ken Davidson, on one, was joined by number 11 batsman, Geoff Stockton.

Ken, the more recognized batsman, played a cautious innings, while Geoff, not renowned for his fast scoring, became the aggressor. The score climbed to over 200 as the Mt. Eliza bowlers became frustrated at the defiant Davidson who was playing a great foil to Geoff who was hitting and edging boundaries.

When the winning runs were scored the Tyabb camp was jubilant as best mates, Ken and Geoff, had pulled off a most unlikely victory.

They continued, with Geoff making 54 not out (10 fours) and Ken, after cutting loose with a four and a six, being dismissed for 35; their partnership for the 10th wicket was 96 which is still a record within the Tyabb Cricket Club.

These two mates loved to recount this story and Geoff still recalls that moment as one that remains dear to his heart to this day.

Statistician. Tyabb Cricket Club.

Experience Clinical Excellence by our highly experienced and qualified nursing teams, and support staff

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and qualified nursing teams, and support staff

Experience Clinical Excellence by our highly experienced and qualified nursing teams, and support staff.

Enjoy a lifestyle and leisure program, providing experiences and social engagement for the promotion of mental and physical health and wellbeing

Enjoy a lifestyle and leisure program, providing experiences and social engagement for the promotion of mental and physical health and wellbeing

Enjoy a lifestyle and leisure program, providing experiences and social engagement for the promotion of mental and physical health and wellbeing

Enjoy a lifestyle and leisure program, providing experiences and social engagement for the promotion of mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Create new friendships in our modern light filled dining rooms, that offer nutritionally balanced meal options and wholesome dishes based on seasonal offerings

Create new friendships in our modern light filled dining rooms, that offer nutritionally balanced meal options and wholesome dishes based on seasonal offerings

Create new friendships in our modern light filled dining rooms, that offer nutritionally balanced meal options and wholesome dishes based on seasonal offerings

Create new friendships in our modern light filled dining rooms, that offer nutritionally balanced meal options and wholesome di h b d l ff rings

Doug Dyall.