Peninsula Essence October 2022

PENINSULA

Writers: Andrea Louise Thomas, Joe Novella

Photography: Yanni, Gary Sissons

Creative: Sam Loverso, Dannielle Espagne

Publisher: Melissa McCullough

Advertising: Ricky Thompson, 0425 867 578, ricky@mpnews.com.au

Anton Hoffman, 0411 119 379, anton@mpnews.com.au

Phone: (03) 5974 9000

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

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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).

10. Fit for Living

Husband and wife team, Glenn Birchall and Heidi Adams help their clients live an optimal life. Both focus on health and fitness, but they practice differently and between the two of them, they can help anyone.

16. All for One

Phoebe McShane is the founder and director of Ausome Hoops - a basketball program specifically designed for young people with Autism; a remarkable achievement for the Mornington local, made even more remarkable considering Phoebe is just 19 years of age.

22. Skye Hawk Flying High

Tahlia Fellows lives in Skye, and began her footballing journey as a junior in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Years of hard work paid off this year when she was drafted into Hawthorn Football Club’s inaugural AFLW squad.

24. Bestseller Storyteller

Balnarring author/screenwriter, Christian White's books are addictively readable and critically acclaimed. His debut novel, The Nowhere Child, won the 2017 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an unpublished manuscript and has also been acquired for a major screen deal.

Leading Arts Eat & Drink

38. Wildly Different

Wildgrain head chef, Leo Howard, brings love and imagination to his cooking by extracting every ounce of flavour from the freshest ingredients and combining them in ways that bring nuance and intrigue. His combinations are creative and interesting, yet not too fancy to alienate the diner who isn’t a foodie.

56. Focus on Rye

Historical facts, café recommendations and what to do in one of Victoria's most popular peninsula holiday destinations.

Focus On History

61. D is For Dead ‘Uns - The Great Mornington Election Scam

It was a publican’s/hotel keeper’s worst nightmare. Over a hundred ruffians had stormed the hotel and were helping themselves to the delights of the bar and running amok throughout the halls and the rooms. Scavengers, vagabonds, picked scoundrels, well-known thieves – the very worst of the roughs of Melbourne had descended on the Schnapper Point Hotel (later to be known as the Royal) and Thomas Rennison was far from impressed.

Every Month

6.

Proudly published by

image by Yanni

Peninsula at

HOMES

Beachstone Homes, a boutique

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Contact Beachstone Homes to see how they can help

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Thoughtful design and

Beachstone Homes, a boutique design and builder of custom homes, is honoured to be awarded by the HIA for their stunning new home, crafted from Australian grey ironbark timbers, Inaminka natural stone and polished river stone floors. Thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail is evident as this home embraces the fall of the land, gently flowing over three levels and around the infinity pool to enjoy zoned living at its finest.

Beachstone Homes, a boutique design and builder of custom homes, is honoured to be awarded by the HIA for their stunning new home, crafted from Australian grey ironbark timbers, Inaminka natural stone and polished river stone floors. Thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail is evident as this home embraces the fall of the land, gently flowing over three levels and around the infinity pool to enjoy zoned living at its finest.

embraces the fall of the land, gently

enjoy

at its finest.

HP FIRE

It takes decades of experience to learn the skills needed to fabricate a fireplace as exceptional as an ADF. Starting as a family-owned metalworking business founded in 1976, ADF has changed the landscape of what the modern Australian fire looks like, performs like, and lasts like. ADF epitomises what a fireplace has become.

3/100 Hallam South Road, Hallam 9796 5088

hpfire.com.au

PROVINCIAL HOME LIVING

Fraser is crafted from traditional Kubu rattan and has the charm and elegance of a classic wingback armchair. This piece will look equally at home on the verandah or in a casual indoor room.

PENINSULA Styles

PRODUCTS FROM THE PENINSULA WE'RE SURE YOU WILL LOVE

147 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento 5908 4299

provincialhomeliving.com.au

The brand new Darcy Boot from Merry People is now in store in Moss Green, Black and Beetroot. 103 Main Street, Mornington 5973 4411

albertanddaphne.com.au

Bring a coastal aura into your home with the Hamptons Buffet. Crisp white timber along with unique design features brings a new coastal element to household spaces this season. Functionality is at the heart of this piece with doors, drawers and shelving for maximum storage opportunities. Showroom D4, Peninsula Home 1128 – 1132 Nepean Hwy, Mornington 8560 1137

ozdesignfurniture.com.au

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE

ALBERT AND DAPHNE

What's on?Upcoming Peninsula Events

OCTOBER 6 CIRQUE MOTHER AFRICA

The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout this jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artistes articulate their passion and love for their homeland combining the talents from nine African countries to provide the wonder, suspense and joy of Mother Africa. thefac.com.au

OCTOBER 22 TRANSITION TO AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Come along to this event at the Peninsula Community Theatre and find out what EVs are available in Australia, how they stack up economically, how to charge an EV both at home and while travelling and much more. You’ll also have the opportunity to view a range of EVs and ask questions from EV owners and our panel of experts. mornpen.vic.gov.au

OCTOBER 12-16

OKTOBERFEST AT JETTY ROAD BREWERY

Gather your Freunde und Familie for a guaranteed good time! Steins, Smoked Sausages, Kraut & Pickles and Traditional German music all on offer. We will have x4 German beers on tap, or if you really want to get in the spirit enjoy a tasting paddle. info@jettyroad.com.au

OCTOBER 29

FOREST THERAPY AT CRUDEN FARM

Through a series of gentle, sensory activities engaging sight, sound, smell and touch, it provides time for you to rest, reflect and reconnect. By allowing our curiosity to blend with nature in this way, we can extend this connection into daily life, creating the possibility of a more peaceful and cohesive way of being in the world. crudenfarm.com.au

*OCTOBER '22

* Check with venue for any restrictions.

OCTOBER 22 LITTLE BEAUTY MARKET

Little Beauty is a stunning new event brought to you by the creators of the super popular Emu Plains Market in Balnarring. This highly curated market from the team at Untold Events Co. is a monthly celebration of art, design, craft, food and culture at the aptly named Beauty Park in the heart of Frankston.

littlebeautymarket.com.au

OCTOBER 30 NEDS PENINSULA CUP DAY

It's a family fun day out - boasting an unprecedented number of rides and activities for racegoers, along with the elevated Highview Marquee, garden party vibes on the front lawn and live entertainment across the venue, there's familyfriendly fun everywhere you turn. Kids under 16 gain free admission and access to free unlimited rides.

mrc.racing.com

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE MORNINGTON

FIT FOR living

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni

Husband

and wife team, Glenn Birchall and Heidi Adams help their clients live an optimal life. Both focus on health and fitness, but they practice differently. Glenn works predominantly as a fitness trainer. Heidi is a holistic health coach focusing on nutrition and healthy decision-making. She’s also a massage therapist with a dash of spiritual guidance. Additionally, both work with NDIS clients as support workers in a wide variety of ways.

Glenn comes from New Zealand where he was a professional dancer and choreographer. He was going to be an accountant, but on a whim took a dance class in his second year of university and was instantly hooked. It totally changed his trajectory. He was accepted into the New Zealand School of Dance two years later. He spent the next 15 years working as a contemporary dancer and later as a choreographer.

page 12...

He moved to Australia in order to go to the Victorian College of the Arts to do a Post Graduate Diploma in Choreography and then a Master’s Degree by research in Choreography with an emphasis on multimedia because, at that time, the VCA had one of the best choreography programs in the Southern Hemisphere.

Glenn has always maintained exceptional fitness. He is the creative director of an entertainment company Retina Productions/Lumiere Acrobatics. He works as a choreographer for corporate events, but even in his mid-fifties he still performs aerial acrobatics. He loves this work as it incorporates all his passions.

Through his training in dance, Pilates, yoga and acrobatics, Glenn has an intimate knowledge of the bio-mechanics of the human body and what it’s capable of. He knows how far he can push his clients. He is also well versed in the mind-body connection and had read widely on the subject of nutrition, which is a key component to getting healthy.

In his home studio gym Glenn has equipment for all forms of exercise from weight training to cycling to Pilates. His focus is on getting the technique right. He works with clients one-on-one to come up with an exercise program based on their needs - that might be stretching, yoga, strength training, core, cardio or even meditation.

What sets Glenn apart from most other trainers is that he can teach almost any kind exercise/movement adapted to each person’s interests. He starts with a postural assessment and interview to

get an idea of the client’s fitness and goals. Most people want to improve general strength and flexibility or relieve back pain. Cardio, stretching and strengthening are the three main things all people need according to Glenn.

Like Glenn, Heidi had a radical change of heart and made a major career shift. She studied at the University of Melbourne (Bachelor’s Degree in Visual and Performing Arts) to become a graphic designer. She did that for 15 years. Then she tried account management. She wasn’t happy with that, but things were about to change.

One weekend Heidi went to a health and wellness expo. She saw a booth for a massage school. On impulse, she signed up on the spot for a year-long massage course. She finished that course and then went on to get a Diploma of Remedial Massage. She has established her own beautiful cosy home massage studio.

Heidi also works as a holistic health coach focusing on lifestyle choices that support nutritional health and healthy decision making in other aspects of life. The creativity she once used in graphic design is now redirected into teaching her clients how to cook and redesign their own lives.

Helping people change ingrained habits is no easy task, but Heidi is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She learned a vast range of dietary theories at New York’s Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She understands the relationship between diet and exercise and offers clients motivation to change eating behaviours. Having had her own struggles with eating disorders, she has genuine insight.

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Glenn has an intimate knowledge of the bio-mechanics of the human body and what it’s capable of

When we are known, we can be ourselves – take risks with our learning, try new things and make new connections. The adventure of learning is more engaging, more challenging and more rewarding when we are known.

To learn more about Years 5 and 6 at Woodleigh and our smaller, caring campuses, scan the QR code below, or email our Enrolments Team – enrol@woodleigh.vic.edu.au We’d love to get to know you.

which makes for an interesting challenge. Heidi starts with an interview to get to know each client and how they think and then builds their program around that.

She doesn’t just look at food and exercise, but everything from love and relationships to career and money to make sure everything is in balance. She’ll even come to your home and help you sort out your fridge and pantry to make sure the right foods are on hand.

In her field, research and up-skilling are important. Going further into the psychology of eating, she has now studied trauma in order to coach and facilitate with a trauma informed lens. She is also becoming qualified to work as a spiritual and energetic healer. She can then treat the mind, body and spirit to offer truly holistic healing.

Though the two of them work differently, Glenn and Heidi have complementary skill sets. Sometimes clients work with both Glenn and Heidi. Between the two of them, they can help anyone live an optimal life.

thrive-hq.business.site (Glenn and Heidi) lumiereacrobatic.com.au (Glenn) nourishingnest.com.au (Heidi)

THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA’S MOST ICONIC DESTINATION FOR

Croquet Lawn and Bowling Green

By Joe Novella Photos Gary Sissons

Phoebe McShane is the founder and director of Ausome Hoops - a basketball program specifically designed for young people with autism. A remarkable achievement indeed for the Mornington local, made even more remarkable considering Phoebe is just 19 years of age.

Ausome Hoops is currently based at various locations in Mornington and has just recently announced a program starting in Nunawading with plans to run programs in Bulleen and Diamond Valley in the near future. Phoebe started the program in 2019, with a vision of delivering, "school holiday camps and weekly programs to kids on the spectrum, providing a safe, inclusive space, where they

can learn how to play basketball free from the judgement of others that may be present in mainstream sport programs."

Phoebe was inspired by her brother in the creation of Ausome Hoops. "My brother was diagnosed with autism when he was four. He found it incredibly difficult to find a sport/activity he really enjoyed due to the lack of knowledge and understanding from the coaches, staff, and his peers. At the time, there wasn’t any autismspecific programs offered in Victoria (and I’m pretty sure nationwide!), and I thought about creating a program for young people on the spectrum, where there would be no judgement about their needs from anyone, and they could learn new basketball skills in a safe and inclusive environment."

Initially, Phoebe took her idea to her local club, the Mornington Breakers, a club she has been a part of since 11 years of age as both a player and coach. After listening to her pitch, the club agreed to support her vision with the provision of a venue and access to potential coaches. Phoebe was worried her new venture would fail; 'a big flop' in her words. She was just 15 and had no business experience; all she had was a passion to make a difference in the lives of young people on the spectrum, the inspiration of her brother and a love of the game of basketball.

Her fears were quickly allayed when the first camp in July of 2019 was a massive success, with 28 kids on the spectrum going along and having a go and leaving with a huge smile, their very own basketball and some new skills. And since then Ausome Hoops has continued to grow and expand with more kids attending, new venues added, and the expansion of programs to include school holiday camps and small group sessions.

"Seeing the participants' individual growth as they participate in our programs is incredible, and we love to see how far they’ve come since they started with us," said Phoebe. "But it's not only

the participants, but the coaches who benefit as well. Our team of coaches and support staff, made up of both junior and senior basketball players, teachers’ aides, ABA therapists and many more, are like a little family; we all get along so well. Seeing how far those who had little or no coaching experience have come has also been amazing, and I love that being part of the Ausome Hoops team has helped them grow.

"Parents also get a lot out of our programs," continued Phoebe. "Not from a physical point of view but from meeting other parents with kids on the spectrum. These parents often struggle to relate to others at mainstream programs, so being able to create a space where parents can talk about some of the challenges they’ve faced with other people who understand has been very special. I’m really proud of the fact that I built this program from scratch and that it’s grown so quickly into what it is today."

The Peninsula community is proud of Phoebe in return, awarding her in January of 2021, the Young Citizen of the Year Award as part of the Mornington Peninsula Shire's, Australia Day Local Awards. She is a role model for any young person who has ambitions to

Seeing the participants' individual growth as they participate in our programs is incredible

make positive changes. "You don’t need a business degree," she said. "You don’t need to study business subjects in school. Just get to work and make it happen. I started Ausome Hoops when I was 15. I had no business qualifications, and I didn’t study any business subjects at school. I had help from people who know all about that stuff, but I was so determined to start the program, and did everything possible to make it happen. There will always be people who are willing to help you get started. If you are passionate about what you want to do, there is nothing stopping you! It only takes one person with an idea to make a change in the world."

For parents who would like to get their children involved in the Ausome Hoops program, visit the website at www.ausomehoops. com.au for further information. NDIS funding is also available to cover the cost of attendance for NDIS registered kids.

And if you're a local business who would like to make a positive impact on the community, then consider sponsoring Ausome Hoops and help Phoebe to continue growing the program for the benefit of our Peninsula community.

W: ausomehoops.com.au

GET YOUR FRESH SPRING PRODUCE

The fresh mornings, sunny afternoons and spring rains mean that there is a whole range of fruit and vegetables coming into season, all grown locally on the Mornington Peninsula.

Think artichokes and Asian greens, beans and carrots, radish and rhubarb, silverbeet and spinach, and as many herbs as you can shake a fork at. Plus so many varieties of our perennial favourite vegetable – potatoes.

The Mornington Peninsula is rich in the range of the fresh food it produces, and luckily, if it’s grown, bred or raised entirely on the Peninsula, it is easy to identify with our Mornington Peninsula Produce (MPP) brand.

The MPP Certified Trademark is a guarantee of provenance, giving consumers confidence in supporting their local farmers, and certainty of sourcing their food locally.

Of course there are more than vegetables to get excited about. Spring sees strawberries start to ripen nicely. Citrus and quinces give tartness and complexity alongside staples of apples and

pears. Then there is the seafood. Our local mussels come into their own in Spring, plus local oysters and the snapper will start to ‘run’. With seasonal produce on the menu you can feed the family - and support local farmers, farm gates, green grocers and butchers - by sourcing local fresh in-season essentials.

To find other ways you can support local business, visit:

mpbusiness.com.au/supportlocal

Support local and find it all – from strawberries to snapper and a whole lot more.

Back on course in high demand, the Highview Marquee offers the day’s top spot to play.

Boasting live music, a selection of the Peninsula’s best food trucks, sensational central bar, and a prime trackside location, the Highview Marquee is the ideal place to immerse yourself in every memorable moment.

Lock in your spot now at mrc.racing.com

SKYE HAWK FLYING high

By Brodie Cowburn Photos Supplied

Along journey for Tahlia Fellows has brought her back home. Tahlia lives in Skye, and began her footballing journey as a junior in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Years of hard work paid off this year when she was drafted into Hawthorn Football Club’s inaugural AFLW squad.

The new Hawk cut her teeth in football as a junior at Lyndhurst, before playing seniors with Cranbourne and Casey Demons. She says that her early footballing journey helped prepare her for the big time.

“I remember an amazing culture, and really enjoying my footy playing with friends from school,” Tahlia said of her junior days. “I went on the play seniors for Cranbourne, played some rep games in inter-league, then got picked up by the Casey Demons.”

Tahlia set the VFLW alight last season. Her form for the Demons saw her awarded the Debbie Lee Medal for most promising young player in the competition. Her outstanding year caught the eye of AFLW selectors, and it wasn’t long before opportunity came knocking.

“This year I had my first good crack at a VFL season. Five games in I had clubs start to reach out to me. It was very exciting and a really overwhelming process, but I was able to make my decision.”

The decision was Hawthorn. Tahlia made history by becoming a member of the club’s first ever AFLW squad.

Tahlia ran out for Hawthorn’s first AFLW match on Marvel Stadium this August. Thousands of people turned up to watch the Hawks take on fellow expansion side Essendon - by far the biggest crowd the young forward has ever played in front of.

“It was the biggest ground most of us had ever played on. Women’s sport hasn’t had much of those opportunities,” she said. “It was a surreal atmosphere with all the fans and everything. I really hope we can see more of it in the future, and that it’s not a one-off.”

After a blockbuster round one match at Marvel Stadium, Hawthorn is taking its show on the road. The Hawks will play three home games this season at Frankston’s Skybus Stadium, not far from where Tahlia calls home.

In 2022 the AFLW expanded to include all 18 AFL clubs, resulting in more opportunities for young players like Tahlia to make their mark. Although Hawthorn’s AFLW side is in its infancy there is plenty of experience to be found. The squad is led by Bec Goddard, the first person to ever coach a team to an AFLW premiership.

“I’m very privileged to be coached by Bec. She has so much passion and so much knowledge and is a great influence on the competition,” Tahlia said. “I’ve been learning from the senior players - Tilly Lucas-Rodd, Kaitlyn Ashmore, and Kate McCarthy all have so much experience at AFLW level. They are professionals and they work so hard.”

Hawthorn’s AFLW side has only been playing and training with each other for a short time. Tahlia says the key to catching up to the established AFLW powerhouses will be to “work hard”.

“Definitely as a new club we are going to progress every year. Our aim is to get better and better and be the best we can be,” she said. “I’ve been privileged to come from Casey Demons, which has a high level of professionalism and standards. But the AFLW standard is still a jump - now we’re surrounded by the best of the best who are at the elite level for a reason.”

Although her sights are now set on bigger things, Tahlia hasn’t forgotten where she came from. She credits two coaches with helping shape her into the player, and person, she is today.

“My Cranbourne coach ‘Boomer’ believed in me more than I did. He saw potential in me when I wondered if I could ever play AFLW and he believed in me,” she said. “Peter Mercoulia was also a great coach. He didn’t just care about football, he created a program that made you a better person on and off the field.”

Tahlia is looking forward to the prospect of bringing football closer to home when the Hawks run out in Frankston. Skybus Stadium received new light towers in 2020, allowing televised AFLW matches to be played there.

“It's so cool and amazing for the locals to have something to look forward to. I’m excited for it and to see a local upgraded stadium host these kinds of events is pretty special,” she said.

Hawthorn will play three AFLW games in Frankston this season. The Hawks took on the West Coast Eagles on 30 September and will meet Port Adelaide at 7.10pm on 8 October, and Brisbane at 7.10pm on 22 October.

This year I had my first good crack at a VFL season. Five games in I had clubs start to reach out to me

BESTSELLER storyteller

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni

Dr Peter Scott and Associates are specialist orthodontists offering orthodontic care for children, teens and adults alike in both the Mornington Peninsula and inner Melbourne.

Balnarring

author/screenwriter Christian White could rightly be called the King of the Cracking Pace and Master of the Plot Twist. His books are addictively readable and critically acclaimed. His debut novel, The Nowhere Child, won the 2017 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an unpublished manuscript.

That award set off a bidding war for publishing rights. Christian chose Melbourne-based Affirm Press, which published his book in 2018. Amongst other distinctions, the book became a Number One National Bestseller; in fact, one of Australia’s bestselling debut novels ever! It’s also been acquired for a major screen deal.

Having written a bestseller right out of the starting blocks, Christian felt the pressure writing his second book, The Wife and the Widow, published in 2019, but it also became a bestseller and won the Ned Kelly Awards along with other accolades.

In 2020, Christian wrote Second Skin, an audible original novella. He also co-wrote (with Natalie Erika James), an Australian feature film called, Relic, a bone-chilling horror movie filled with wild plots twists, just like his novels. It debuted at Sundance Film Festival in 2020. In 2021, Christian and his wife, filmmaker, Summer DeRoche, co-wrote Still House, also an audible original novella.

continued next page...

Dr Peter Scott is also a consultant at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Specialist Orthodontists

Creating Beautiful Smiles on the Peninsula for over 30 years

In Child And Adult Orthodontics

While writing his third novel, Wild Place, another page turner, set on the Mornington Peninsula, Christian was also working on a Netflix series called Clickbait with screenwriter Tony Ayres. Released in 2021, it too became a smash hit; in fact, the Number One most watched series in 20 countries.

Christian was lauded as an overnight success, but, in fact, there is no such thing. He’s been writing his whole life. His mother, a schoolteacher, was a wonderful storyteller who encouraged her young son to build on story frameworks she made up. This most likely planted the seed for Christian becoming a writer. Both his parents were, and still are, incredibly supportive.

By 12 Christian was writing/producing story zines. He really got serious about writing in high school where he had some very encouraging teachers. When his English teacher read out his stories in class, Christian realised that being a writer was what he most wanted.

Initially, he was nervous about pursuing his dream. He was afraid that if he tried and failed, he’d have to give up a dream he held very close to his heart. At 37, he finally took the leap into full-time writing. He wrote everything from sci-fi to literary fiction, but found the thriller/crime fiction genre was his niche.

Before writing, Christian had worked in a wide variety of jobs from apple picking to editing adult films. He met his wife at the editing job when he managed to get them both fired and that was the turning point to starting his writing career.

Christian went to RMIT to get an Advanced Diploma in Screenwriting and formally learning story structure gave him confidence.

While at RMIT, he entered an Australian Writers Guild competition to write a television pilot. He won. This got him a meeting with Matchbox Pictures which led to Clickbait.

Clickbait was a launching point. He had the opportunity to work with other talented like-minded people. It was inspiring. The show reached millions of viewers giving him a huge boost in confidence. It was also fun to write because it keeps the viewer guessing right to the very end.

Screenwriting influenced the way Christian writes his novels. He’s a very visual storyteller who writes with an audience in mind. He structures his novels like television shows, finishing each chapter as if it’s going to a commercial break. It keeps the tension simmering and keeps the reader turning pages.

Affirm Press saw the genius in Christian’s style and storytelling. He chose Affirm because they were so passionate about his work. Christian loves their supportive, collaborative editing process. His first draft of The Nowhere Child was over 100,000 words. With their help, it was tightened to 86,000 words. As he explains, “Every single word needs to earn its spot.”

He wrote five versions of The Nowhere Child before submitting his manuscript to the VPLA. He had a full-time job and no expectations. Once it was published, everything changed.

“After the first book, I had two things I didn’t have before: a deadline and an audience. So the pressure was on,” he says.

As nerve wracking as that pressure was, he actually wrote his second book, The Wife and The Widow in six months, which was six months before deadline. Structuring helps.

Every single word needs to earn its spot

Writing in alternating chapters, whether by character or time sequence, not only keeps the reader guessing, but it makes

“One of the secrets to great writing is knowing that the audience will bring so much to it. It’s as much about what you leave off the page. The reader brings their own imagination to the

Christian sets aside three hours each day to write. On a first draft, he’ll aim for 1500 words a day, more for a second draft. With a screenplay he aims for 5-10 pages

a day depending on the deadline. He sets achievable goals and leaves his writing at a point where he is excited to get back to it the next day.

Now he’s writing his fourth novel, working on a novella with his wife and finishing a screenplay for a movie that’s coming out soon. (He’s not one to rest on his laurels). Success hasn’t gone to his head because, as he says, “A good dose of impostor syndrome is a good thing,” He also credits much of his success to his brilliant wife without whom he believes he would never have made it.

The secret to success is simple. He says, “You have to follow through, your work has to be good and you can’t be a jerk.” It’s clearly working for him.

christian-white.com

STEP 1 – WE DELIVER

STEP 2 – YOU PACK

When you choose Octagon Removals & Storage to move from one home into another, owner-operated business which takes care and pride on assuring that your belongings are well looked after during the whole process whilst also maintaining our business reputation at the same time.

STEP 3 – WE STORE

Let us know if you need any assistance with your packing or if you’d simply like us to arrive on the day to collect and transport your belongings to

Removals & Storage to move from one home into another, owner-operated business which takes care and pride on assuring that your belongings are well looked after during the whole process whilst also maintaining our business reputation at the same time. Let us know if you need any assistance with your packing or if you’d simply like us to arrive on the day to collect and transport your belongings to

Your items are safely and securely stored at our warehouse in an assigned section for as short or as long as you require.

Have a chat with us and find out how we can assist you.

Have a chat with us and find out how we can assist you.

Have a chat with us and find out how we can assist you.

It’s as much about what you leave off the page. The reader brings their own imagination to the piece

STORAGE REMOVALS

PACKING SHREDDING

DE-CLUTTERING COURIERS

DIFFERENT INTERPRETATIONS OF THE SAME SONGLINE

Three women artists are showing new paintings featuring different interpretations of one of their most significant songlines - Minyma Maku (Women of the Witchetty Grub) at Everywhen Artspace in October.

Anita Pumani, Betty Campbell and Umatji Tjapalyi are from the South Australian APY community of Mimili and work through that community's Aboriginal-owned art centre Mimili Maku Arts. Mimili Maku Arts represents several award-winning artists such as the $100,000 Hadley's Award winner Tuppy Goodwin and Wynne Prize winner Betty Pumani.

The Minyma Maku songline is important to many women in the APY Lands of South Australia.

Here, the three artists depict the songline as it relates to their traditional lands in the 846,000 square kilometre Indigenous Protected area of Antara. A short drive from their community, Antara includes dramatic rock formations, waterholes and is filled with flora and fauna. It is frequently visited and actively cared for by many Mimili artists.

Granddaughter of one of Mimili's founding artists, Anita Pumani is one of its brightest rising stars. Here, her work depicts the country and maku trees of Minyma Maku.

Second generation painter Umatji Tjapalyi paints her mother’s country, which forms part of the Antara storyline, and is celebrated in Women’s Ceremony.

Although more senior, Betty Campbell is showing her first exhibition works, focusing on the dance and women's ceremonies associated with the Songline.

Fresh, detailed, and imaginative the paintings by these talented artists make for a beautiful and dynamic exhibition and one that truly embodies the concept of innovation within tradition.

Minyma Maku runs from October 7-25

A: 39 Cook Street, Flinders - Open: Friday -Tuesday 11-4

P: 03 5989 0496

W: everywhenart.com.au

Anita Pumani, Antara-Maku Dreaming, 200 x 200 cm

Mimili artist Betty Campbell with one of her paintings in the exhibition

COMEDY AND CONNECTION WORKSHOPS AT THE FAC

What if the links of that chain were smiles and the fools were happy to be fools? Being silly, laughing and sharing mirth with others is one of the purest forms of pleasure. This is a scientific fact! Laughter triggers the release of ‘happy chemicals’ that promote a sense of wellbeing. Laughter decreases stress hormones and ramps up immune cells and infection fighting antibodies. It even helps relieve pain. All this can be yours at the Frankston Arts Centre.

Sign up for Comedy and Connection, a series of theatre and movement workshops with a focus on physical comedy that are designed just for seniors. It’s facilitated by clever comedienne and actor, Laura Trenerry (Comedy Up Late, The Traveling Sisters) who has entertained audiences to great acclaim in Australia and across Europe. She generously teaches others the tricks of her trade. Laura will also bring guest artists to the workshops to keep things fresh and interesting.

“My Comedy and Connection classes run as a theatre-style movement and improvisation workshop series. If you are a theatre lover, love to move, be ridiculous or have always had an appreciation for physical comedy, this workshop would be fantastic for you. During the eight weeks we develop as a strong ensemble exploring the world of physical comedy and theatre through exercises and games inspired by the methods of Jacques Le Coq. Participants practice things such as stage presence, comic timing, rhythm, complicité and connection to the audience and will devise their own comic material through improvisation and clowning,” Laura says.

The focus of Comedy and Connection workshops is fun, plain and simple, but the activities also promote physical and emotional wellbeing and provide a chance to get out and connect with others. New friendships could be formed, but at the very least, participants will be joyfully connected.

When participant Jackie took the workshop, that’s just what she said, “This is a delight! I can’t wait to get back here each week to connect and feel the joy. Can’t believe how liberating it is.”

Go play games, do mind and body exercises, be spontaneous, stimulate your creativity and have a go at comedy. You’ll keep your brain fit and flexible which improves cognitive function (and may decrease the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia for those so predisposed). You’ll get the opportunity to think creatively, relax your inhibitions and gain confidence. Participant Brian loved the workshops and said, “It was entertaining to entertain. My mind and body felt more in tune than I normally feel. I am happy to be happy.”

So, if you’d like to spend your Tuesday afternoons clowning around and having a good time, sign up for this workshop series that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and laughter to your heart because laughter is good for the heart too.

next page ...

start on Tuesday, October 4 and run through to

go to the Frankston Arts Centre

December 6. To

or call 03 9784 1060. thefac.com.au

INCREASING SELF-SUSTAINABILITY AT TALKING HENS

There has been a growing shift to become more selfsustainable. Keeping backyard hens is one way Talking Hens is forging the path, but is also looking at other ways to be involved in sustainability.

At Talking Hens we sell hens which are extremely friendly and placid, so make fantastic pets! These hens are sustainable as they save on food miles, give you compost for the garden and love eating pest insects which helps reduce using chemicals in your garden. These hens also love company and like nothing more than to spend time interacting with their owners. We hear lots of entertaining stories from our customers such as their hens going on school runs, on swings with the kids and happily jumping up onto their laps.

Other ways Talking Hens is becoming increasingly sustainable is the introduction of our new 20kg, Sustainable Layer chicken feed bags. The new bags are fully biodegradable, sustainable and recyclable. Customers can return the bags so that they can be sanitised and reused and receive an in-store credit for doing so. So-far, customers have been happy to return them and pleased that none of the bags will sit in landfill like the vast majority of chicken feed bags.

Currently, we are in the process of completing a sustainable building on the farm that is made out of hempcrete. Customers

can see, touch and experience this amazing building material. Hempcrete is a great alternative to other building materials as its fire retardant, non toxic and a great insulator. We are also looking at a range of other projects where we can use hempcrete with our new chicken coops being a priority.

Come visit us at Talking Hens to see what we are doing in regards to sustainability and also the improvements we are making on the farm.

Open Hours: 10am till 4pm Daily Closed: Wednesday

A: 3590 Frankston Flinders Rd, Merricks

P: 0406 691 231

W: TalkingHens.com.au

Looking for backyard hens but unsure where to start?

Talking Hens is a family business that enjoys backyard hens. We specialise in friendly, egg laying hens with quality products to keep them happy and healthy.

There’s nothing like the friendship and entertainment that you receive from our laying hens - a pleasure to be shared!

Talking Hens

3590 Frankston-Flinders Rd Merricks, Vic 3916

Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday 10am to 4pm

Closed: Wednesdays

For enquiries call 0406 691 231

Email: talk@talkinghens.com.au

Visit: TalkingHens.com.au

Our new sustainable building on the farm that is made out of hempcrete.

MPRG 2022 NATIONAL WORKS ON PAPER

Anna Hoyle is the Winner of the 2022 National Works on Paper $20,000 major acquisitive award. NWOP is an award, a curated exhibition, a celebration of the materiality of paper, a showcase of the ambition and experimentation of artists, and a conduit for the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery to build their collection.

The judges said about the award-winning work: ‘Inspired by the artist’s interest in wordplay and cultural contexts related to self-help, advertising, the wellness industry and consumer culture, Anna Hoyle’s gridded series 1800BIOOSEKURE is a joyful celebration of the creative process and a wry, humorous take on the existential dramas of everyday life.’

National Works on Paper (NWOP) is one of the foremost art awards and exhibitions in the country, attracting Australia’s leading contemporary artists working with paper.

Close to 900 artists from across Australia submitted entries for NWOP 2022, with 78 finalists selected by the judging panel.

The 2022 National Works on Paper is on at MPRG until 27 November.

mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

WILDLY different

By Andrea Louise Thomas Photos Yanni

Wildgrain

head chef, Leo Howard, brings love and imagination to his cooking. His combinations are creative and interesting, yet not too fancy that would alienate the diner who isn’t a 'foodie'. As he says, “Food has to be relatable.” Leo extracts every ounce of flavour from the freshest ingredients and combines them in ways that bring nuance and intrigue. His dishes are truly original and look beautiful on the plate.

It all began with his Yorkshire grandmother. She loved baking and cooking. Leo happily joined in with her. England isn’t known for its food culture, but Leo says it is very much there in homely staple dishes like the famed Yorkshire pudding shared with family. Most of Leo’s childhood memories are connected to food.

He did his professional training with City and Guilds in his hometown Manchester, England, working at a large country club restaurant. It was very much a trial by fire experience a la Gordon Ramsey with a bit of pot and pan throwing to boot! Despite this tension, Leo says, “I realised that I loved cooking. It was something I was good at and could take anywhere.” And he did.

At 18, Leo came to Australia in 2009 to travel around the country with his girlfriend. Her family was based in Melbourne so Leo started working in the kitchen at The European. They were so impressed with him that after a few months they sponsored him to stay in Australia. He has never looked back.

When his first son was born, Leo traded the 60-70 hour/week grind to move to the Peninsula. His partner’s parents lived in Rye. The young couple had parenting back up and Leo could work at a more family friendly pace. He worked at Paringa Estate in Red Hill for two and a half years as sous chef under chef Julian Hills (Navi). He learned every aspect of paddock-to-plate fine dining. It was a game changer.

In his next job, Leo was head chef at Mornington café/restaurant, Play the Fool, where he got to exercise his considerable imagination creating dishes that were entirely original. His inventive cuisine caught the attention of

food critics from The Age and the Herald Sun. Their great reviews really put Leo on the map as a chef.

Leo wanted to step up to a larger venue where he could have his own team so he moved on to Barmah Park in Moorooduc. He was there for a year before he was poached by Entrecote for their enormous Stamford Park Homestead Restaurant in Rowville.

COVID hit and the restaurant shut down. They did take away for a while, but Leo wanted to do something more ambitious.

In 2020, Wildgrain owners Sean Flanagan and Sarah Peatfield were hiring. They were once chefs themselves so they knew what they were looking for. Leo’s experience impressed. As it turned out, Wildgrain is the perfect fit. Transitioning through COVID was tricky, but Leo took delight in building his kitchen staff from the ground up. He now manages a seamless team and they all love working together.

“I spend 90% of my day thinking about food. I might see something or smell something and the idea for a dish starts from there,” he says. Leo enjoys creating seasonal menus. It has been difficult in the current economy where supply is inconsistent and ingredients are now more expensive. Fortunately, Sean is a keen gardener. He supplies the kitchen with fresh herbs and produce. Other ingredients are sourced from local or regional suppliers.

Ultimately, it’s love of his craft that drives Leo. For a relatively young chef, he has accomplished a lot in his career. Ambition and talent are evident, but for Leo it’s all about passion. Leo loves Wildgrain. It’s a cool, creative, contemporary restaurant with a fantastic bar and fabulous staff. From the cocktails to the cuisine to the service, Wildgrain is outstanding. Leo is proud to be part of that winning combination.

“When you feel like you’ve made someone’s night because you’ve given them something that’s different, something they can’t make at home and something they are impressed by, then you’ve nailed it. Not many people get to have a job where they can make people feel like that,” he says. Leo makes people feel like that everyday.

wildgrain.com.au

I spend 90% of my day thinking about food. I might see something or smell something and the idea for a dish starts from there

recipe

RICOTTA GNOCCHI

FINE HERB PESTO, SMOKED KIPFLER POTATOES, BUFFALO MOZZARELLA (Serves 4)

GNOCCHI DOUGH

Ingredients

300g ricotta (hung overnight until dry)

50g grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg yolk

120g 00 (pasta flour)

10g sea salt

For garnish

4 x pieces asparagus (finely chopped)

1 x small handful snow peas (de stringed and finely chopped)

8 x springs snow pea tendrils

20g buffalo mozzarella (1 cm diced)

Method

Thoroughly mix together all ingredients except for the flour. Gradually knead the flour into the cheese mix until a dough is formed. Place into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Let the dough sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours before rolling.

FINE HERB PESTO Ingredients

30g picked dill

30g picked tarragon

30g picked chervil

30g chives

60g baby spinach

1 medium shallot

Method

2 x cloves garlic

1/2 tablespoon dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon baby capers

20g grated Parmesan

30g flaked almonds

100ml olive oil

5g sea salt

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Toast the flaked almonds in a preheated 170 degree oven for 6-8 minutes until light brown. Allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Thoroughly wash and dry all of the herbs and place into a food processor.

Cook the baby spinach in boiling water for 20 seconds before straining and plunging into ice cold water.

Thoroughly squeeze the water from the cooked spinach and add to the food processor.

Place all remaining ingredients into the food processor and blend to a paste. Reserve at room temperature.

SMOKED KIPFLER POTATOES

Cook five kipfler potatoes in salted simmering water for 30 - 40 minutes until you can easily stick a knife through them. strain from water and let them sit for 10 minutes to cool slightly. Peel away the skin using a small knife and slice into 2cm thick rounds.

Smoke potatoes for two minutes using a smoking gun and reserve for later use.

To cook

Using a dough scraper, cut the gnocchi dough into manageable pieces and roll into thin sausage shapes on a floured bench. Once rolled, cover your dough scraper with flour and cut your rolls into small gnocchi pieces.

Place the gnocchi into boiling salty water. Once floating, boil for two minutes before pulling from the water and tossing in olive oil. Place a pan over a high heat. Once the pan is hot, add a good glug of olive oil, add the gnocchi and cook until golden brown on one side before tossing and cooking the other side. Add the finely chopped asparagus and snow peas and cook for a further 30 seconds.

Add 50 ml of water to the pan, immediately followed by three tablespoons of the pesto and the smoked potato slices. Toss through and cook for one minute before placing into your serving bowl.

Garnish with diced buffalo mozzarella dressed with a squeeze of lemon, extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Finally, artfully place the snow pea tendrils and serve.

WHOLESALE WINES

John Luke Victorian 2021

John Luke Heathcote

DIRECT TO PUBLIC MEANS YOU SAVE!

Wine Lovers Warehouse is the direct to public arm We opened up the warehouse three days every week to

Wine Lovers Warehouse is the direct to public arm of our wholesale business specialising in restaurant,

for over

COVID-19 put a big handbrake on our wholesale business and so we made a decision to transform and stay alive, supported by our friends and the local community, which we will be forever grateful.

We opened up the warehouse three days every week to the

selling our wines and suppliers at trade prices and no retail mark ups. It is our commitment to remain open servicing the needs of our Wine Lover community into 2022 and beyond. Come along and say hello, grab a bottle or a case, and bring in this publication for a free bottle of bubbles with any purchase.

GREENWAYS: THE TIME IS NOW!

With spring upon us, now more than ever, is a great time to join our community at Greenways Retirement Village.

Greenways is an unique village: a beautiful, landscaped oasis in the heart of Seaford, a thriving, social, welcoming and supportive community with a real sense of security and first class facilities.

The village offers affordable living options and low ongoing maintenance charge for peace of mind with incredible staff to support their every need. Further, it has private owners with a genuine and active interest in exceeding resident expectations and has done so for over 40 years.

At Greenways, our residents enjoy the benefits of living in a vibrant and happy retirement community among friends. They feel connected, safe, secure, supported and independent.

But don’t take it from us. See what our happy residents have to say! “You made us safe in ways we would not have thought of,” says Anne Glassborow, who recently moved to Greenways.

Brian Casey, former president of the Greenways Residents’ Committee, agrees: “A mere thank you is totally insufficient to portray our gratitude to all the staff here at Greenways. Your happy, selfless, dedicated and professional support for residents is second to none.” Merle, a resident for over 9 years, sums up her feelings: “How glad am I that I moved to Greenways!”. And the feedback from Ian, a resident since 2011, and his family, is greatly appreciated:

“You are heroes. All of you … Thank you”. It’s no surprise that Greenways received 100% satisfaction from residents in its previous resident survey.

We will do everything we can to ensure Greenways’ incredible community spirit and unique culture thrives well and truly beyond.

We invite you to arrange a private village tour by appointment to meet our fabulous staff and residents, and view our homes.

Please call Sandra (on (03) 9786 8679 or 0433 883 228) at any time to arrange.

• 1 bedroom unit: $356,500 to $368,500

• 2 bedroom unit: $425,750 to $555,500

• 3 bedroom unit: $577,500 to $620,500

• Apartment: $286,750 to $299,750

Availability is limited.

We look forward to welcoming you to Greenways.

A: 330 Frankston-Dandenong Road, Seaford

P: 9786 8679

W: greenwaysvillage.com.au

PARC, SUPPORTING OUR SENIORS TO BE ACTIVE

PARC’s mission is to get the community active, and this year they are celebrating Seniors Festival with:

Free entry on Friday 14 October

Experience the benefits of being active and connected with your local community for FREE. Visit PARC on Friday 14 October, present your Seniors Card, and enjoy free access to their award-winning Facility.

Active Movers group exercise classes

PARC has created exercise classes just for older adults. These low intensity circuit workouts help increase your balance, improved bone and muscle strength, and connect you with likeminded locals.

Aqua classes

Our warm water pool hosts Hot Water Yogalates – where you can safely enjoy the benefits of Pilates in the warmth of the pool. PARC also offers traditional Water Aerobics, Aqua, and Deep Water Running.

Active Life membership options for over 60s

Whether it’s the Gym, classes or pools that grab your fancy – or all 3 –PARC’s membership options will help to keep your health goals on track.

Personalised support

All of this, plus a team of qualified trainers to help achieve your wellness goals.

A: 16N Cranbourne Rd, Frankston

P: 9781 8448

W: parcfrankston.com.au

Seniors Festival at

Active Movers

Aqua

Hot Water Yogalates,

Life

Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, YOUR PLACE

happy and

DOWNSIZE TO AFFORDABLE PENINSULA LUXURY

Discover a boutique, family-friendly, comfort-plus lifestyle village – with just 46 Villas, that’s what Peninsula Lifestyle Retirement Village in Baxter offers.

Each villa offers retirement luxury living with caesarstone benchtops, air conditioning, built -in-robes, double glazed windows, high ceilings and European appliances.

There’s something for everyone. Share stories with other residents over a cuppa in the community centre or get creative with those who share similar interests.

Whether it be a craft, a game of indoor bowls, darts, billiards or simply enjoying a movie or sports event on our big screen.

Tone up in the gym, while away hours in the potting shed and raised vegetable gardens or simply relax with a book from the library. Discover independent living with a sense of community complete with security for peace of mind.

A: 46 Baxter-Tooradin Rd, Baxter

P: 5973 1100

W: peninsulalifestyleretirementvillage.com.au

REGIS ROSEBUD COMMUNITY OUTINGS

Mornington Peninsula offers residents and visitors the perfect location to explore the great outdoors and enjoy its coastal charm. Local aged care residence, Regis Rosebud, organises weekly community outings around the Peninsula for their residents.

The beauty of having their own bus means they have the freedom to spontaneously plan trips when the weather is looking nice. Many residents at Regis Rosebud share how going on community outings regularly make them feel “free, calm and excited,” expressing their gratitude frequently to the wonderful team putting these adventures together.

Thomas Anderson, Regis Rosebud General Manager, said these excursions provide the perfect opportunity for residents to socialise amongst themselves and to get closer to the community.

“Our seniors love spending time in different spots around the Peninsula and it’s a great way for them to build friendships and share similar interests,” he said.

Community at Regis Rosebud is an integral part of the Home. The Lifestyle team plans trips where family members and loved ones can also attend, creating an environment that brings the Regis Rosebud community together. One of their recent trips was to Athur’s Seat, which was an exceptionally popular destination

for everyone attending. Many family members expressed their gratitude for this activity and loved being involved in their Lifestyle program alongside their loved one.

Regis Rosebud have planned their next outing to a local strawberry picking farm, which the residents are all overjoyed by.

Regis offers a diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year

A: 1 Wyuna St, Capel Sound

P: 1300 998 100

W: regis.com.au

Rest and recharge with Regis respite

At Regis, we know what it takes to care for someone you love, and what a difference a bit of extra support can make.

Respite at Regis gives you the opportunity to take a break with the comfort of knowing your loved one is receiving the care and companionship they deserve.

We’ve been nurturing trusted connections with our employees, clients, residents and their families for nearly 30 years.

Through our range of tailored aged care services, we are committed to helping people realise their wellbeing goals and lead meaningful lives. We focus on every person as an individual so we can provide the best possible care and help them find the smile in every day.

Find out how Regis Aged Care can help you get the support you need.

regis.com.au | 1300 998 100

Regis Rosebud

1 Wyuna Street, Capel Sound VIC 3940

SCAN TO DISCOVER REGIS ROSEBUD

Give us a call on 1300 998 100 or pop into a Home today.

HELPING TO MAINTAIN AN INDEPENDENT

Westernport Mobility have long specialised in the sale and repair of mobility scooters and home mobility products, and have now introduced a whole new range of living aids.

Proof that a good business is constantly growing and keeping with the times, Westernport Mobility have expanded into health care products for the home.

Owner Ray Percival says it’s part of providing a wider service to the community. “We now have lift chairs, which are ideal for when people have had operations like hip replacements. They might need a lift chair temporarily after surgery, or they might need one full time in their home,” says Ray.

“At Westernport Mobility, you can either hire or buy depending on your needs.”

Also included in the new range are products to help those with rheumatism. “We have jar and bottle openers, and other home aids like special cutlery for those with arthritis, that help people maintain an independent life,” says Ray.

At Westernport Mobility, it’s all about supplying products that make it easier for everyday living. You can buy or hire most products, including mobility scooters, electric lift beds, electric lift chairs, walking aids, bathroom and toilet aids and living aids.

Adding to the festivities, the Eagle is offering a special Seniors rate for a group day out at the Eagle. “Everyone is really eager to get out and about and to experience what we have to offer,” Sarah explains. “By popular demand we put together an outing that includes return flights on the Eagle and a delicious Devonshire Tea which has been extremely well received!”

The Arthurs Seat Eagle is open every day except Christmas Day, so there’s plenty of time to spend enjoying all the amazing events. Visit the website for a full schedule of events and to book your tickets.

W: aseagle.com.au

Are

over

and considering home care?

At Mark & Sylvie’s, we bring health to home care.

“My favourite part about having Mark & Sylvie's Home Care is the relationship with Hilde and Melissa, they care about me.” - Michael

Compassionate Home Care

Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care is an approved provider of government funded Home Care Packages, founded by local doctors who are passionate about caring for the elderly. We offer a range of services:

• Nursing

Personal care

Domestic assistance

Meal preparation

Light gardening

services

Integrated Health Care

Through our parent medical company, Atticus Health, we are able to provide ongoing general and specialist medical advice and care along the way. Our network includes GPs, nurses, podiatrists, physiotherapists, audiologists, occupational therapists and specialist doctors.

Immediate availability. Contact us today to learn more about our Home Care Pakages

HEALTHY HOME CARE

Mark & Sylvie's Home Care is an approved provider of government funded home care packages. Mark & Sylvie's is uniquely owned and run by doctors who are passionate about caring for the elderly. Through our parent medical company, Atticus Health, we are able to provide ongoing general and specialist medical advice and care, keeping our clients safe at all times.

Mark & Sylvie's Home Care was set up by doctors to integrate health and home care. We did this because we believe that there is significant synergy in doing so. Offering a range of different services including skilled nursing, personal care, and companion services, catering to a wide variety of needs.

Our main point of difference comes via the empowerment we offer our personal care assistants, giving them access to communicate with our medical staff. If and when they observe a medical issue, whilst visiting a client at home, they can notify their care manager, who will promptly facilitate a GP or other medical specialist consultation with one of our in-house team, either face to face or by telehealth.

Mark & Sylvie’s lives by the belief of kindness, empowerment and creativity. We strive to help a person gain the support they need, whilst at the same time, not introducing any services that may inadvertently dis-empower them. If a person can or likes doing something, we help them to keep doing that task. In this way, we seek to empower people.

W: mshomecare.com.au

Spring back into gardening at Our Library!

Whether you’re a gardening guru or a green novice, join us for free garden talks at Mornington Peninsula Libraries this Spring.

Meet Jane Edmanson, one of Australia’s most accomplished horticulture experts and author and co-author of several gardening books. On Friday 28 October, Jane will be attending Mornington Library to share her expert tips to help your garden bloom!

Our other gardening events include:

• How to Sow Seeds in Spring 6 Oct

• Home Composting Workshop 29 Oct

• Preparing for a Summer Harvest 3 Nov

• Starting a Sustainable Garden

Nov

All events are FREE! Bookings are required.

more information and to book visit: ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au/events

ADVISING, GUIDING AND SUPPORTING SENIORS

Lardners was established by Jimmy Lardner in 1991 on a solid foundation that each of his clients needed consideration, advice, support and guidance tailored very specifically to their needs. Over 30 years later, this holistic approach continues to be the foundational pillar for the firm’s services to its senior citizen clients.

Highly respected and recognised as a truly local and a landmark firm, Lardners Solicitors have long been serving senior citizens living in the Mornington Peninsula and the Frankston community in personal, family and business matters from across different walks of life and needs.

"Legal journeys can sometimes be difficult and challenging for our clients and they can experience a range of emotions, changing needs and stresses. We take the responsibility to help our clients navigate and make pragmatic and most cost-effective decisions along the way. We deeply understand the needs of our senior citizens. A prudent approach to a prudent pathway leading to a prudent outcome is the only way we work to achieve the very best for them” says Andrea Griffiths, a principal of the firm.

visits and video conferencing facilities have been tailored and made freely available to assist clients obtain legal advice and support whenever convenient to them.

The firm has noticed it’s senior clients increasingly needing greater expertise and advice in areas such as wills and estate planning, asset protection, inheritances, retirement village matters, aged care and family and succession issues. “We take time to listen, clearly understand the personal issues and give advice that specifically addresses their needs and wants. “It’s just the way we have always practiced”, says Griffiths.

W: lardners.com.au

The firm’s full-time solicitors offer significant, varied expertise and availability to meet the many different needs and demands of the growing senior citizens community in the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston region. After hours appointments, home Principal Andrea Griffiths

Founder Jimmy Lardner

appreciate you!

THE FOOTWEAR SPECIALIST

Whether we are called seniors, elders or just mature aged we face the same problems as we age with reduced stamina, bone density, muscle strength and energy levels.

Bayside Shoes carry an extensive range of orthotic friendly and supportive footwear as part of their “foot solutions” model to assist in making a difference to your health.

Whatever our fitness level or dietary beliefs, one area that we can manage and protect is our feet. The wear and tear of time affects the skeletal structure of our body affecting our feet, knees, hips and back that can create pain. The benefit of correctly fitted and supportive shoes with good orthotic support can significantly reduce foot, knee, hip and back pain and improve your quality of life.

So come and see their highly experienced and trained staff who will help you with all your special footwear needs. The store has disability and free parking with a wheel chair ramp at the store entrance. Open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 3.30pm Saturday.

A: 103 Railway Parade, Seaford

P: 9785 1887

W: baysideshoewarehouse.com.au

HELPING YOU WITH ALL YOUR HEARING HEALTH NEEDS

Peninsula Hearing Aid Centre was established in 1952, founded by Alan Vines, father of the now owner and director of the business, Fiona Vines.

Alan built and ran a successful business before youngest daughter Fiona joined the practice after completing her Certificate 4 Diploma of Audiometry at R.M.I.T. (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology) in 1987.

As a team, Alan and Fiona continued to build and work this successful practice together, desiring to deliver quality independent hearing services to families of the Bayside and Mornington Peninsula regions before Alan’s retirement transitioning the business to Fiona after 15 years working together. Sadly, Alan passed away in 2021.

Moving ahead to 2018, Taylah has continued the family tradition by being the third generation to join Peninsula Hearing after completing her Bachelor of Health Sciences and Masters of Audiology at La Trobe University, Melbourne in 2015.

Since, Taylah has strived further in the hearing industry becoming a state sales manager for Victoria and Tasmania, and while this role is busy and demanding she still on occasion works as a clinician at Peninsula Hearing.

As the practice continues to be busy, the decision has been made to bring on board another audiologist to help Fiona and Taylah.

After much consideration, Peninsula Hearing is pleased to welcome Nick Petersen. Nick holds the same values as Fiona and Taylah in offering personal hearing care.

Nick has worked locally on the Mornington Peninsula for 15 years, helping people with their hearing needs. Nick was so excited to join Peninsula Hearing as he is all about offering the most personalised service to clients, the fact that Peninsula Hearing is an independent family-owned business is the perfect environment for him.

We welcome all our existing clients and all new clients to come into our clinic and allow Nick, Fiona and Taylah to help you with all your hearing health needs.

A: 18 Davey Street, Frankston P: 9783 7677

W: penhear.com.au

on

Rye

Rye is a seaside resort town, approximately 83 km south of Melbourne, on the Mornington Peninsula. Its bay beach is popular with swimmers, fishermen, yachtsmen and kite surfers. Rye has an area of 14.7 km².

Rye median house price is $1,200,000. Rental median price is $530pw.

The coastal town of Rye is situated on the popular holiday destination of the Mornington Peninsula, nestled between Rosebud and Blairgowrie.

Point Nepean Road is Rye's main thoroughfare, running parallel to the town's bay beach. The main concentration of shops is located east of Dundas Street and includes a hotel, eateries, a major supermarket and other retailers.

Rye's main beach, fronting Port Phillip, offers safe sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and boating. There is a jetty, several boat ramps, and attractive foreshore facilities with picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds and walking tracks.

Around a kilometre west of the Rye Jetty is an outcrop of land called White Cliffs. At the base of the cliffs is a reconstructed old Lime Burners Kiln - a reminder of the mid-1800s when the extraction of lime was the area's primary industry. Scenic views along the coast can be enjoyed from a lookout above the kiln.

Rye extends southwards across the narrow width of the Mornington Peninsula in this area, right down to the coastline fronting the open waters of Bass Strait. The Mornington Peninsula National Park spans the foreshore here, consisting of scenic walking tracks, rocky coastal features, dunes and pockets of sandy beach. A pathway and steps extend from Tasman Drive down to the sandy bay at Number 16 Beach

Population of Rye is 9,438 (2021 Census).

If you enjoy snorkeling, you can hire gear locally and then head for the Octopus’s Garden at Rye Pier. This is a 200 metre underwater trail with signage introducing you to the underwater wildlife.

Rye also has an impressive ocean beach, where you can experience an exhilarating horse ride. There are magnificent walks along the clifftops that form part of the 25 kilometre Coastal Walk.

Rye was proclaimed a town on February 26, 1861 and is partly in the parish of Wannaeue but mainly in the parish of Nepean, which is west of Government Road and Weeroona Street. The township extends south to the southern boundary of the cemetery, with its east and west boundaries being Weir Street and Dundas Street.

In the early years of settlement, Rye was known for lime burning, wood cutting and fishing industries. The building of Melbourne was under way, and the lime burnt from stone kilns at Rye was transported by dray, then barge, onto small sailing vessels.

The lime industry gave employment to wood cutters, quarry men and lime burners and a settlement soon developed.

Rye had the natural bounty provided by the bay and ocean beaches. Fish were in great abundance and provided a living for some families. As well as putting food on the table for many others, the rocky edges at the ocean beaches were a rich source of crayfish, and the bay held a multitude of species.

Coffee Safari

Freshly brewed coffee is a must-have for weekends. Here are a few places to check out when you're in this beautiful part of the world.

3 Knots Cafe

2111 POINT NEPEAN ROAD

Great coffee and fresh food in a warm friendly environment. Locally roasted coffee and a delicious menu.

Captains of Rye

2285 POINT NEPEAN ROAD

A laid back, unique atmosphere with friendly staff serving up an extensive breakfast menu, burgers and the cheeky brunch cocktail.

Peninsula Pantry

43A WONDAREE STREET

Brekkie, light fare and homemade cakes in a cheerful cafe with communal tables, plus outdoor seats. Excellent coffee that is second to none and perfect with a slice or cake.

Hunter Café & Store

364 DUNDAS STREET

100% vegan cafe out the back of Rye serving delicious, healthy, vibrant food and Commonfolk coffee.

*Check with each business for individual trading information.

What to do

The coastal town of Rye is a popular holiday destination with everything you could want within walking distance. Brimming with great cafes specialising in breakfast and lunches, fantastic restaurants, its wonderful foreshore with sandy beaches ideal for swimming, boating, and finishing, and Rye’s Up! Community playground run parallel on either side of the town’s main thoroughfare, Point Nepean Road. Many visitors and locals enjoy picnics along the stunning foreshore reserve. During summer, the Rye Carnival arrives guaranteeing loads of fun for the whole family.

World class golf courses are within a few minutes’ drive of the main township and two hot spring venues are also nearby.

Photos Yanni

Leapt

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(troops)

Not singular

Formative years

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Announce formally

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Madam (2'2)

Reared

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Israeli city, ... Aviv

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Exploiting, ... on

Belgrade natives

Sleazy gaze

99. Fertiliser compound 101. Lump 103. Cryptographer 105. Making insensitive 107. Re-evaluated 111. Auction participant 112. Show on screen 113. Unexpended 114. Beauty parlours 115. Pristine 117. Fervent 119. Jet-bath 120. Betting 122. Harpooning 124. Ribbon knot 132. Weapons reduction 133. Cooked for 134. Leguminous plant 135. Young eagle 137. Actor, ... Holm 138. Stiffness 140. Cost estimates 141. Black/white bird 143. Sibling's daughters 145. Promenades 150. Heckles 153. Unending 154. Use 156. Prophecies 157. US honeymoon falls 158. Craggy 160. Slog 161. Roman garment 163. Film-background performers 166. Tie up (boat) 167. Filter 168. Attest 169. Noddy's creator, ... Blyton

DOWNACROSS

D IS FOR DEAD ‘UNS The Great Mornington Election Scam

By Lance Hodgins

It was a publican’s/hotel keeper’s worst nightmare.

Over a hundred ruffians had stormed the hotel and were helping themselves to the delights of the bar and running amok throughout the halls and the rooms. Scavengers, vagabonds, picked scoundrels, well-known thieves – the very worst of the roughs of Melbourne had descended on the Schnapper Point Hotel (later to be known as the Royal) and Thomas Rennison was far from impressed.

It all started innocently enough. Late afternoon on Sunday August 18 1861, a steamer pulled into the Mornington jetty and within moments two men strode into the hotel. The one with fair hair and a more gentlemanly appearance introduced himself as Patrick Costello, newly elected member of parliament for the seat of North Melbourne, and requested to hire a committee room from 9am till the close of poll at 4pm the following day. No sooner had this been arranged when five men rushed into the hallway where they were met by Costello and ushered into a room.

Costello emerged to request a carriage to take him to a friend’s place further along the coast. On his return about 8pm there was a large crowd from the steamer milling around in front of the hotel demanding supper and beds. Costello told them, “Go in first, boys, and get nobblers,” then followed them shouting, “These fellows must have drinks.”

The mob rushed in and took over the bar, not paying for their drinks and stealing dozens of bottles. After downing their ale, or whatever, they smashed the glasses against the wall. Rennison remonstrated with Costello who simply shrugged his

shoulders and said, “They’re already in. You may as well make the most of it.”

Rennison continued to complain about the damage but was assured that all would be paid for in the morning. When Costello raised the matter of breakfast, Rennison told him that he “would not trust him four pence” without a written order, which was duly provided.

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Above: The Royal Hotel, Mornington.

Above: Patrick Costello

The purpose revealed Costello then tapped the hotel keeper on the arm. “Old fellow, I want to have a word with you,” and drew him aside. “I want a few votes out of Balcombe’s nest,” he confided. “I care not what they cost. Can you procure me a good man or two in the neighbourhood?”

He then pulled out a huge roll of notes – possibly £60 ($60,000 in today’s money) – and asked Rennison if he could be trusted to lay it out judiciously. Rennison refused, saying that he had nothing to do with the election and he would have nothing to do with Costello’s money - apart from what he would be owed for damages.

The Mornington district was a far-flung electorate with almost 1,000 potential voters and six polling places, two of which were on the peninsula: the Tanti Hotel at Schnapper Point (Mornington) and Scurfield’s Hotel at Dromana.

The contest was between Henry Chapman and Alexander Balcombe. Chapman had already served in the Irish-Catholic O’Shanassy government and was better known in the Dandenong region to the north, whereas the land-owning Balcombe was expected to be an overwhelming success among the voters of the peninsula, where he had made The Briars his home.

Elections had been unruly affairs, with voting often held in the only available public place – a hotel – and open to all sorts of alcoholic abuses. Five years earlier, the new Victorian Constitution had brought in a world first - the secret ballot - where names were checked off a roll and a card with the candidates’ names was marked and dropped in a box. 1861 would be the third State election but there were still loopholes in the system. A study of the electoral roll showed that there were sufficient numbers of absentee voters in Schnapper Point and Dromana who could be “personated” –the legal term for voting as someone else. It soon became clear to

Above: A Map of the Mornington District

Below Left: H. S. Chapman

Below Right: A. B. Balcombe

Rennison what Costello and his mob were up to.

For the present, however, they were simply becoming more unruly and conducting themselves in a drunken, disgraceful manner. A one-eyed ruffian shouted offers of £5 for whoever drew “first blood” in the morning. When Rennison threatened to call the police Costello responded with, “By Jesus, they couldn’t be driven out by a regiment.” The hotel keeper, his wife and the servants spent all night standing guard.

The morning could not come soon enough. At daybreak, Costello muttered something about coming back to pay for the damage, and then drafted 46 of his men and boarded the steamer for Dromana. Rennison surveyed the damage. His recently renovated hotel had walls spattered with liquid, tablecloths and curtains rolled up as temporary bedding, and furniture in pieces. There were still bodies everywhere, sleeping off the night before.

Off to “work” at Dromana

When he reached Dromana, Costello called his men together and told them that they were about to personate voters. This drew a mixed reaction but the one-eyed Louis Frankel ferried the first boatload of eight ashore and landed them about half a mile from Scurfield’s Hotel. Costello helped them change their coats before thrusting them towards the polling booth. Some were reluctant and needed to be manhandled into the hotel.

Thomas Smith was only a few yards away and looked on in amazement. The bootmaker from Schnapper Point travelled frequently to Dromana and he knew most people in the district. He saw Costello walk a man from a room saying to him, “Now you must remember your name is Thomas Clancy, Point Nepean.” Smith knew this was a lie as he knew the real Clancy well. At the polling booth Costello had the man by the arm and thrust him inside.

Costello then brought in another man and told him to remember the name Hugh Fox. Fox happened to be a personal friend of Smith, who knew that he was “across the Murray” in Wagga. A third man was escorted to the polling booth door and told to be William Jones. The travelling boot maker had known Jones for five years and, again, knew that this man was not him.

Later in the morning, the Returning Officer had proof of the scam when the real “Clancy” and “Jones” finally came in to vote.

The personations continued, however, until the bootmaker Smith and a friend, Boag, confronted Costello on the veranda of Scurfield’s.

“What do you mean by robbing honest men of their votes?” they demanded.

Costello drew them aside. “Now, look here, my friends. Don’t make a noise about this. I am the member for North Melbourne. You want a jetty at Dromana and I will secure your jetty. I can do more good for you than ever old Balcombe could do.”

“I don’t trust you,” replied Smith. “You are rotten at heart.”

Other things failed to run smoothly for Costello, sometimes from surprising sources. John Anglam was a hawker, an unruly character, a former convict, and a simple man who knew nothing at all about politics. He was handed a name and told to go and vote.

“I’ll be damned if I will,” was the reply. At that, Costello caught him by the shoulder, dragged him to the committee room and dressed him down.

Jeremiah Rigby and his mate Davy Leary had left the boat and were nearing the hotel polling booth. They were given names by Costello, but they objected and returned to the boat where they were met by a dozen others who had also refused to vote.

Costello arrived back at the steamer and stormed on board.

Above: Early Dromana at the foot of Arthur's Seat

“You are a bloody lot of duffers,” he yelled at the group. “What did you come here for then?”

Some of the men answered that they had come to canvass.

Costello was ropeable. “You are a bloody nice lot of electioneering men.” And then in a more threatening tone, “I will remember who you are.”

“What about our pay?” asked one brave soul.

“You will be settled up at the Spanish Hotel tomorrow night. But mind you, any man who didn’t vote will not be getting paid at all.”

At that, Costello ordered the steamer back to Schnapper Point.

Meanwhile at Schnapper Point

About fifty “voters” had stayed on at the Point. Timothy Murray had been left in charge, with Frank Ryan and John Nathan as his offsiders. Murray’s main qualification for the job seemed to be that, of the three, he had the longest list of arrests for drunkenness and street fighting.

They roused the weary bodies from Rennison’s hotel and directed them along the track to the polling booth at the Tanti Hotel, a mile inland on the main road.

Voting was in full swing by 9am and personations were the order of the day. Ryan and Murray met “their men” at a distance from the polling booth. They were armed with the electoral roll, containing names and qualifications of the voters. Certain names were marked with a “D” which meant they were “out of the country” – or, more accurately, “dead ‘uns”.

Sixty suits of clothing had been brought down on the steamer by Frankel, the insolvent who ran an old clothes shop near the Eastern Market. These were used by Ryan and Murray as they sought to effectively disguise the voters, particularly those who would go in several times.

By early afternoon about 25 personators had cast their votes. One man even voted four times before he finally said, “Enough is enough.”

William Grover, a well-respected local builder and future JP and Shire president, had observed Ryan and Murray as they approached each imposter while continually consulting and making marks on their list. Grover rushed inside the polling booth to alert the scrutineers.

The next “voter” was James Barry, a simpleton and, like many of the others, he had spent time in gaol for drunkenness and fighting. He was pushed into the polling booth and offered his name as James Burke #21 of the Schnapper Point Road. When pressed for his qualification, he became confused and blurted out “in Little Bourke Street”. Ryan stood at the door repeatedly hissing “Freehold, Frankston” - which was the real Burke’s qualification to vote. When Barry was asked to swear his identity, the flustered man turned and ran off.

A similar incident occurred when another man was brought up and gave the name of James Mason. When asked for his qualification, he correctly answered “Freehold in Osborne” but the scrutineer knew the real Mason and accused the man as an imposter, who immediately fled the room. There were eight further

Below: The Tanti Hotel, Schnapper Point, a few years on

attempts to personate Mr Mason – all of them, of course, met the same failed result.

More frustrating for Ryan and Murray was the sheer unwillingness of some of their men to be involved. Frederick Green, a street brawling cab driver of North Melbourne, when offered a name, simply refused to vote, and relented only when told he wouldn’t get paid. The name given was an Irish one but, since Green had Jewish features, he was promptly given another one – Moses Moss. Green had them write it on a piece of paper, which he kept and later produced in court. He and his mates then walked straight past the polling place and failed to vote.

Several others also refused to vote, and by early afternoon Murray had given in. “Damn this lot. I’m sick of them,” he uttered as he lay down on the grass near the Tanti. Costello and the others would be back from Dromana soon.

On their arrival, Costello was first ashore and proudly announced that all his men had voted - which was quite untrue. When told that only about twenty had done so at Mornington, he exploded with rage. “You’re a lot of muffs. I did all mine and if I had yours I’d have polled them too.”

He turned to John Nathan and told him that even his brother, Abraham, had voted.

“Well, he must have been either drunk or a fool,” was the retort.

“Oh he’s all right,” replied Costello. “I left him in good hands.”

Those “good hands” were, in fact, those of the local constable. Abraham had voted for Samuel Barton and then Edward Russell, and was promptly arrested. Several days later he appeared in Mornington police court and pleaded guilty to the charge of personation.

The slippery paymasters

The steamer returned to Melbourne and by Tuesday evening the bar of the Spanish Hotel was full and the crowd spilled out onto Elizabeth Street. They were there to collect their “wages”, but Costello was nowhere to be seen. Nathan, who had originally rounded up the mob from their pubs and hovels on a promise of £2 (or $2,000 in today’s money), was left to soothe the crowd and promise that all would be settled the following night at Costello’s hotel.

“What a mess we have made of it,” Nathan said to Costello the next day when he entered his Travellers’ Home Hotel. They sat at a table and received a steady stream of “workers”, paying some but refusing to pay those who had not voted. When one presented a falsified voting card as proof, Costello politely excused himself - and disappeared out the back door.

In a strange twist a few days later, Costello found himself in the District Court being sued by 24 of his ruffians for work done - even

Above: Elizabeth Street in the 1860's

Jonathan Nathan claimed £20 “for services rendered at Mornington”. The case was thrown out on the grounds that canvassing debts were not legally reclaimable.

Costello had another minor victory when Rennison sought payment of £45 for damage, inconvenience, accommodation and 116 breakfasts at his hotel. The County Court ruled that Costello was not responsible for the men’s unruly behaviour and that only the written breakfast contract was enforceable. Rennison was awarded only 16 guineas.

Costello’s run of luck lasted long enough for him to see the election results. As predicted, Balcombe led in both Schnapper Point and Dromana, but Chapman took the parliamentary seat by just 21 votes: 336 to 315.

Costello heads to trial

Patrick Costello, Frank Ryan, Louis Frankel and Timothy Murray appeared in the District Police Court for committal to trial for combining and conspiring together to induce certain persons to personate voters. All four pleaded not guilty and said nothing. They were granted bail and ordered to stand trial in the Supreme Court two weeks later.

In the meantime, Victoria’s third parliament had commenced its sittings and many people were annoyed that Costello had the effrontery to take his seat with criminal charges hanging over his head. He was sworn in as a law maker under the noses of the very two Judges before whom he would shortly appear in a different capacity.

The trial was moved to Ballarat. No fewer than 15 jurors were challenged, and the defence tried unsuccessfully to argue that personation was not a specified criminal offence under the Electoral Act. The defence called no witnesses and presented no alibis. A crowded courtroom heard up to 40 witnesses for the prosecution and the trial lasted seven hours.

The jury took only half an hour to find all four guilty of inducing men to answer questions falsely, and then guilty on the general issue of personation. The defendants sentenced soon after: Costello was seen clearly as the ringleader and received 12 months imprisonment, and the others six months.

Some important questions remained (i) Who was really behind this whole sorry mess? Was it solely Costello, who had already won himself a seat in Parliament? Or was

he backed by a secret political pressure group called the Victorian Association? This was a group akin to today’s “GetUp” which was developing a murky reputation for political interference in the days before a party system. Or was the ambitious Chapman behind it?

(ii) Given the questionable validity of the voting, should there have been a new poll taken for Mornington? Balcombe was urged by his supporters to protest the result - but he politely declined. Chapman defiantly took his seat in Parliament but resigned midterm to become a judge in the Supreme Court.

(iii) What would happen to Costello? In March 1862, after serving only half of his sentence, he was released from prison following a petition signed by 37 members of parliament. Of course, this met with widespread criticism.

A year later he was declared insolvent after a long and messy case. Costello, however, was a man of resilience and after two decades as a contractor he once again owned property in the city. Another insolvency followed and, on his release in 1891, he was elected to North Melbourne Council and in the following year became their mayor.

Costello died in 1896 and was buried in Melbourne General Cemetery, leaving an estate of £998 – almost $1 million in today’s money.

Post script

Just over a century later, two of Patrick Costello’s great-great grandsons were making names for themselves in public life. Tim Costello, a Baptist minister, was the CEO of World Vision Australia and his younger brother Peter was Australia’s longest serving Federal treasurer in the Howard government.

Above: Costello’s hotel "Travellers’ Home Hotel”, Swanston St, 1860s

Below Right: Old Ballarat Court House