18 minute read
THE LOWDOWN on the Mornington Peninsula & surrounds
THE COLOURS OF ITALY
Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula is known for its natural beauty, and now it is also the backdrop for the vibrant artistry of Debbie Waite. With a rich background in graphic design and a career spanning teaching art, ceramics, and photography in Melbourne and Sydney, Debbie’s creative journey is as varied as it is inspiring. Adding another feather to her cap, she is also a registered wedding celebrant, blending her artistic flair with personal celebrations.
From October 19th to November 3rd, Debbie Waite’s solo exhibition, ‘Fruitti d’Italia,’ will grace Studio 123 in Blairgowrie. This collection is a vivid homage to her travels through Italy, capturing the essence of the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Puglia. Visitors can to view a series of vibrant, tonal still life paintings based on Italian cafe and restaurant scenes. Debbie’s ceramics and fabric compositions further showcase her deep love for fruit, flowers, and birds, infusing each piece with her signature exuberance for colour and design.
The exhibition isn’t just a visual treat; it’s also a marketplace of creativity. Alongside her paintings, Debbie will be offering greeting cards, calendars, and cushions adorned with her designs. Each item reflects her artistic vision, providing a touch of her vibrant style for the home or as a thoughtful gift.
For those inspired by her work, Debbie will also be hosting art classes for children during the school holidays. These classes, focusing on painting and clay, promise to be a delightful way for young artists to explore their creativity under her expert guidance.
Debbie Waite’s ‘Fruitti d’Italia’ promises to be a captivating celebration of art and culture. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique exhibition and perhaps take home a piece of Italy, rendered through Debbie’s colourful lens.
A: Studio 123 Blairgowrie - 123 St Johns Wood Rd, Blairgowrie Sat 19th Oct - Sun 3rd Nov - Open 10am - 4pm
IG: studio123blairgowrie
E: debbiewaite35@gmail.com
W: debbiewaiteart.com.au
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OWNING BACKYARD HENS ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Imagine waking up to the cheerful clucking of hens as they greet the day in preparation for laying your family some delicious, fresh eggs. If this scene resonates with you, then Talking Hens, a family-run business nestled in the heart of Merricks on the Mornington Peninsula, is your go-to destination for bringing this dream to life.
Jason Nethercott and Giuliana Postregna, the owners of Talking Hens, have been dedicated to providing families with the knowledge and support needed to embark on the rewarding journey of backyard chicken ownership. Their story began back in 2012 when they started a free-range egg business from their family farm in Keysborough, where their interest in backyard hens was ignited.
As their business grew, Jason and Giuliana realised the joy they could bring to others by sharing their experience and knowledge about backyard hens. They transitioned their focus to providing families with everything necessary to welcome these feathered friends into their homes.
Talking Hens has over four decades of experience in the family, thanks to Giuliana’s father, an egg farmer for over 40 years, the foundation of Talking Hens is built on quality and expertise. Their specially formulated chicken feed mix, rich in nutrients, is a testament to their commitment to the health and well-being of hens.
Among the increasing range of different breeds available at Talking Hens, the Hy-Line Brown laying hens have emerged as a popular choice for suburban backyards. These delightful hens are renowned for their child-friendly nature, gentle demeanour and regular egg-laying capabilities.
Customers of Talking Hens often share heartwarming tales of their feathered companions, from chickens laying their eggs in dog kennels to surprise kitchen visits through cat flaps. These endearing creatures reinforce the special bond that develops between humans and their backyard hens.
Talking Hens invites you to step into their world of backyard hens and discover the joy, companionship and sustainability that these remarkable creatures bring. Whether you are a seasoned chicken owner or a curious beginner, Talking Hens provides the resources and support you need to succeed.
A: 3590 Frankston Flinders Road, Merricks Open 7-days, 10am to 4pm
P: 0406 691 231
E: talk@talkinghens.com.au
W: TalkingHens.com.au
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SEA WOLVES HOWLING AGAIN IN FLINDERS!
The sensational hit show Sea Wolves Howl is returning to Flinders for four performances 14-16 November at Flinders Community Hall, after a sell-out debut season in February 2024.
This extraordinary local production, commissioned for Flinders Fringe Festival, is based on the stories of a group of women and non-binary people who bonded over cold-water swimming during COVID. Together, they discovered the power of the pack as they literally howled their troubles, and their triumphs, to the sky.
Sea Wolves Howl was inspired by and created with the blessing of the Mount Martha Sea Wolves, who generously shared their stories with the creatives who brought their stories to life. Written by local theatre practitioners Carole Patullo and Jane Bayly, with original music and score composed by John Thorn and directed by Yoni Prior, Sea Wolves Howl has grown into something much bigger than what happened on stage – it’s been a transformative experience for everyone involved. And audiences wanted more!
The return season will see the original cast – five main characters – Lux (Emma Jevons), Patch (Kelly Nash), Marina (Carmelina), Jilly (Jane Bayly) and Aubrey (Carole Patullo) – carry the stories of cold-water therapy morphing into whole-life therapy, unleashing a wildness and a playfulness that is all about saying yes to the universe with a mighty howl.
Also returning is the stunning Portrait of a Sea Wolf Exhibition, featuring portraits of the original Mount Martha Sea Wolves by local documentary photographer Noa Smith Fletcher, who also doubles as the co-founder of the actual Sea Wolves swimming group and the inspiration for the central character, Lux (Emma Jevons) in the Sea Wolves Howl. The exhibition will be on display at the Flinders Community Hall.
Flinders Fringe is grateful to the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Performing Arts Development Grants Program that generously supported Sea Wolves Howl and Portrait of a Sea Wolf Exhibition.
Sea Wolves Howl returns to Flinders Community Hall for four shows only: November 14-16. Book tickets online.
W: flindersfringe.com.au
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BUILDING HOMES THAT MATCH YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR BUDGET AND YOUR VISION
Masterline Homes services the Mornington Peninsula and around Western Port Bay up to Phillip Island. Whether building your first, or fourth home, Masterline Homes has the blueprint to suit you.
Because our focus is to provide you with the home you want, we can change colour schemes to suit your personal taste. You can even design your own home for us to build. In contrast to many large builders, we will alter house plans and change the design to suit your block of land and your budget. Alternatively, you can provide us with your own plan if you prefer.
Our home design philosophies are born from our combined experience of 55 years in the housing industry, inspiration from our client’s input, paying attention to our client’s desires, and our adaptable approach to all important issues. We do our best to make the whole process a happy and exciting one.
Specialising in:
• Knockdown and Rebuild
• Dual occupancy
• Duplex
• New homes
From a dual-occupancy to a multi-unit development , Masterline Homes can handle all size projects as both the builder or developer.
All our projects can include our full homemaker pack (Turnkey), ready to move in, thus taking all the stress out for you
Masterline Homes has built many developments ranging from a single unit in a backyard, to duplex dwellings and multiunit projects, specialising in residential property design and development, offering an exclusive, yet affordable collection of homes and town-houses to suit all buyers.
Using Locally based suppliers where possible, we can maintain a quality product while ensuring employment opportunities for the future. Building with Masterline Homes is a co-operative effort between our company, our suppliers and you, our valued client.
Masterline Homes is a long-time member of the Housing Industry Association, the Master Builders Association and is registered with the Victorian Building Authority Reg # CDB-U 48889.
Benefits of choosing Masterline Homes for your next development:
• Flexibility in approach and design
• Dealing direct with the builder
• Getting the home you want
• Enormous range of colour choices
• Quality fixtures and fittings
• Designing your own home
A: 6 Milgate Drive, Mornington
P: 5973 5611
E: sales@masterlinehomes.com.au
W: masterlinehomes.com.au
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HAVE YOUR POOL READY FOR SUMMER!
Keep your swimming pool and spa ready for your family’s enjoyment. Don’t leave it till the last minute to turn on your solar system only to discover you have a sprinkler system on your roof rather than a solar collector. Take advantage of the sun’s rays and carry on swimming through autumn by investing in an Aspire pool solar heating system. Solar collector is the most cost effective and sustainable way to heat any pool or spa. Whether you have existing forms of pool heating such as gas or heat pump the Aspire pool solar panels can be paired with these systems and considerably reduce your energy bills even further. The award-winning rigid pool solar panel can be custom installed to maximise the roof space available. Located at our modern manufacturing facility on the Mornington Peninsula the Aspire pool solar panel is the only 100% Australian made single piece injection over moulded rigid solar panel on the market. Built from high impact, high UV polypropylene resin, these panels are tough enough to resist cockatoo attack and hail damage.
HOW IT WORKS.
A rigid pool solar panel works in conjunction with a low energy water pump and a solar controller. The controller monitors the panel temperature on the roof and the pool water temperature. When the panels heat up from the free rays of the sun the controller activates the pump and circulates the hot water from the roof and back into the pool. It’s that simple.
SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT.
With soaring electricity prices and the phasing out of gas supply to new homes there has never been a better time to invest into a more affordable and sustainable way to heating your swimming pool.
HEAT YOUR SWIMMING POOL USING THE FREE RAYS FROM THE SUN.
• Saves money by using the free natural rays of the sun.
• Most cost-effective and sustainable way to heat any pool or spa.
• Can be paired with existing gas or heat pump heating systems.
• Will reduce your energy bills considerably when used as a primary source of heating.
• Resistant to cockatoo attack and hail damage.
• 100% Australian made for Australia’s harsh climate.
• Custom build sizes to maximise roof space.
• Patented one piece injection over moulded polypropylene construction.
• Pool industry recognised and certified.
• After 20 plus years of useful life the solar panels can be 100% recycled.
CONTACT ASPIRE TODAY FOR YOUR FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE.
Voted by SPASA, national GOLD winner for most sustainable product of the year 2023
P: 5979 1043
W: aspirepoolsolar.com
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FORMAL FASHION IN MOUNT ELIZA
Arya Co is thrilled to announce the opening of our new store in Mount Eliza, bringing their unique fashion and services to customers across the Mornington Peninsula.
Founded in 2015, Arya.Co is an Australian-made fashion label specialising in custom-made, bespoke evening and bridal wear. We offer a modern and distinctive collection of stylish designs in-store and provide tailored services to bring your fashion inspirations to life.
Our work has been showcased at Melbourne Fashion Week, and we've had the honor of dressing numerous Australian celebrities. With over 33 years of experience, our team of owners, designers, and dressmakers are true professionals in the industry. In addition to our stunning designs, we offer expert alterations for men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, including items purchased from our store.
We look forward to welcoming you in-store to explore your formal fashion needs and provide personalised service from our dedicated owners and staff.
A: 66 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza
P: 0450 653 135
E: aryathelabel@outlook.com.au
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ART PARADE OPENING FOR SPRING EXHIBITION AT EVERYWHEN ARTSPACE
An art parade presentation of 40 + First Nations artworks from 5 regions opens Everywhen Art’s new exhibition on October 19 named for the Bunurong season of Pareip (True Spring).
Featured are brilliantly coloured bird paintings by Ernabella Arts’ Jeffrey Lewis and Bunurong elder Mark Brown; glowing landscapes and bush medicine paintings by Artists of Apilatwatja and painterly trees by exciting emerging artist Beverley Downs from Mimili Maku Arts, APY Lands.
“With a wide range of works and styles, art parades offer a great opportunity to view and/or acquire new works,” says Susan McCulloch, Everywhen's co-director.
“These joyous paintings are truly a celebration of the Bunurong season of Pareip.”
Free event but bookings essential : everywhenart.eventbrite.com
A: 642 Tucks Rd, Shoreham
P: 03 5931 0318
W: everywhenart.com.au
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GET INVOLVED
Become a Volunteer Mentor at Women and Mentoring and offer support to women in your community
Creating connections that changes lives
Women and Mentoring (WAM) offers a unique, early intervention mentoring program to women and non-binary people who have justice system involvement, those who have been charged with a criminal offence, or those at risk of offending. With the support of a trained volunteer mentor, women are empowered to create positive change in their lives both practically and socially.
Why Women?
Women face overwhelming social and economic disadvantage. We know that women in contact with the justice system disproportionately experience family violence, abuse, trauma, financial disadvantage, mental health and substance use difficulties, and low opportunity for education and secure housing. The women we support often have dependent children with barriers to finding employment, appropriate support and meaningful connection in their community.
Mentoring
Through our mentoring program, WAM supports women to build a life separate from their criminal justice involvement. Through our relational model, women are supported to develop protective factors, life skills and confidence to eliminate the cycle of re-offending. Mentors are recruited from the local community and undertake screening and training to prepare for their role. Mentors also benefit from understanding more about women’s pathways to justice issues, access ongoing training opportunities/ professional development and receive support from WAM’s coordinators.
Volunteer to mentor today!
The commitment and dedication of our amazing cohort of volunteers enables us to deliver this life changing program, so why not put your hand up to volunteer with WAM today! This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to support women in your local community. We ask all volunteers to:
- Undertake two days of Mentor Training
- Commit to a minimum of 12 months, with availability to connect with a woman in community and/or digitally every week
- Undergo a WWCC & Police Check (please note having a criminal record does not exclude you from volunteering with us)
- Identify as female/woman/nonbinary
E: volunteer@womenandmentoring.org.au
W: womenandmentoring.org.au/mentor
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MAKING A COMEBACK, IN A BIG WAY
When you hear the phrase ‘cork flooring’ your mind might immediately go to ‘70s interior design – potentially with images of patterned wallpaper, geometric shapes, and a whole lotta velvet.
The best of the ‘70s is back, and that includes cork flooring in all its glory (but maybe not so much the crazy wallpaper).
While cork flooring’s popularity has ebbed and flowed over the years, it’s experiencing a resurgence today, largely thanks to increased interest in sustainable and eco-friendly building materials.
The unique combination of comfort, durability, and aesthetic versatility that cork flooring offers has once again brought this innovative material into the limelight.
Cork, harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, boasts an impressive eco-friendly profile. The extraction process involves stripping the bark without causing harm to the tree, allowing it to regenerate and be harvested again in subsequent years. This sustainable harvesting method makes cork an appealing choice for those seeking environmentally responsible flooring options. Kustom Timber, a trailblazer in the flooring industry, is playing a crucial role in popularising this green alternative.
Beyond its ecological advantages, cork flooring delivers a unique blend of style and functionality. The natural warmth and softness underfoot make it a comfortable and inviting choice for any space. Kustom Timber's commitment to quality ensures that cork flooring not only looks exquisite but also stands the test of time, with durability and resilience that can rival traditional hardwood flooring.
Kustom Timber's innovative approach to cork flooring also extends to its design versatility. The company offers a wide range of styles, colours, and patterns, allowing customers to tailor their flooring choices to match their unique tastes and preferences. Whether it's a modern, minimalist aesthetic or a classic, timeless look, Kustom Timber's cork flooring options cater to diverse design sensibilities.
To witness the beauty and durability of Kustom Timber's cork flooring collection, you can visit their Mornington, South Yarra or Geelong Showrooms. Step into a world where conscientious design meets unparalleled craftsmanship, and experience firsthand the warmth and sophistication that cork flooring can bring to your living spaces.
A: Kustom Timber Mornington, 1/4 Torca Terrace, Mornington
P: 03 5910 3008
W: kustomtimber.com.au
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PENINSULA HOME HOSPICE CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY
Peninsula Home Hospice (PHH) is celebrating 40 years of service with a special fundraising event 15 November 2024, 7pm at Mornington Racecourse, in which everyone is welcome to attend. Jacinta Parsons has just been confirmed as special guest MC for the 40th anniversary event.
PHH was born from a recognised community need, established by a group of volunteers eager to ensure that those wanting to stay in their own home as they faced a life-limiting illness were able to do so. Since then, PHH has evolved into an accredited not-for-profit Specialist Community Palliative Care Service, receiving state government grant funding, supplemented by local fundraising. All services provided to the community are free of charge. Clients and their carers receive care in their own homes rather than hospital, optimising their quality of life, choice, and dignity.
Sue Glenn recalls her positive experience with our service. Her husband Greg’s life was shattered when he was diagnosed with incurable cancer. Thankfully, the couple discovered their local community palliative care service, Peninsula Home Hospice and Greg was able to live his final weeks, spending quality time with his family at home before he died.
“The support was incredible and helped me care for Greg at home. The day he died, the palliative care nurse, Eric came over to see us. He took me out to our garden to pick Greg's favourite sweet peas and place it on his chest’’ she says.
For information and to support Peninsula Home Hospice in their 40th year, visit the website below.
peninsulahospice.com.au
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CURIOSITY AND WONDER LEAD TO A NATURAL DESIRE TO LEARN
Frankston Beach Sanctuary of Early Learning is the newest in a set of established Early learning services on the peninsula.
Situated along Kananook Creek this coastal styled centre portrays the same philosophy and values of the sister centres; Mt Eliza, Frankston and Seaford House.
This state of the art centre is opening early-mid 2024 and has spaces available.
Frankston Beach is committed to provide a vibrant and flexible environment that supports learning and responds to the interests and abilities of each child.
The program includes sustainability principles, and a health and wellbeing focus. A strong belief that children are connected to the wider community and environment.
A balance of indoor and outdoor experiences is provided within the services natural landscape and through the Beach and Bush Kinder program.
The play based program provides opportunities for children to grow, discover, create and imagine. Children are acknowledged as capable, competent and co-contributors who actively participate in their own learning.
The inclusive program recognises the individual learning styles of all children, and value families for their unique contributions to the centre community.
The intention is to support children to be kind, respectful and confident contributors to their community and the world.
The experienced and knowledgeable Educators are committed to provide a warm, nurturing environment that recognises childhood as a very special and important time.
