DV 2017 Edition 1

destinations

victoria the ultimate resource for every kind of traveller 2017 edition 1

ARCADE GAMES Melbourne shopping through the ages

拱廊寻宝 墨尔本购物穿越之旅 room copy only PLEASE LEAVE FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF OTHER GUESTS To purchase your copy visit magnation.com

ART explorer

Regional galleries & museums

WHAT’S ON Event calendar

local heroes

An insider’s guide to Melbourne

destinations

Victoria THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR EVERY KIND OF TRAVELLER 2017 EDITION 1

2017 EDitioN 1

MELBOURNE SHOPPING THROUGH THE AGES

拱廊寻宝 墨尔本购物穿越之旅 ROOM COPY ONLY PLEaSE LEaVE For tHE ENJoYMENt oF otHEr GUEStS

73

ART EXPLORER

regional galleries & museums

WHAT’S ON

Melbourne

PRECINCTS

8 ARCADE GAMES

22 THE INSIDERS

Local legends share their story

74 INNER CITY

Chinatown, Docklands, Southgate, South Wharf, laneways & nightlife

event calendar

LOCAL HEROES

an insider’s guide to Melbourne

to PUrcHaSE YoUr coPY ViSit MaGNatioN.coM

Cover photo: A beloved shopping destination since 1892, The Block Arcade was recently ranked Australia’s No. 5 Landmark by Trip Advisor travellers. To take an interactive tour, scan below.

34 SPAS

The city’s most indulgent day spas

PHOTO: the block arcade

44 EAT & DRINK

Our top bars and foodie haunts 50 ATTRACTIONS

Experiences for the whole family 60 EVENTS CALENDAR

What’s on in Melbourne

88 INNER NORTH

Abbotsford, Brunswick, Carlton, Collingwood, Fitzroy, North Melbourne & Richmond 92 INNER EAST

Armadale, Camberwell, Prahran, South Yarra & Toorak 98 INNER SOUTH

Albert Park, Brighton, Elwood, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne & St Kilda 104 INNER WEST Footscray, Seddon, Yarraville & Williamstown

2 | destinations Victoria

IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK, VISIONS OF VICTORIA.

ARCADE GAMES

Contents 6

107 out of town 108 COUNTRY LIFE

Discover Victoria’s regions 114 REGIONAL ART GALLERIES

CHA DSTONE

126 YARRA VALLEY

THE FASHION CAPITAL

130 MORNINGTON PENINSULA 134 PHILLIP ISLAND 138 GEELONG & THE BELLARINE

The home of

163

140 GREAT OCEAN ROAD

Essential information

144 THE GRAMPIANS

164 MAPS

146 THE GOLDFIELDS

167 ROAD TRAVEL TIPS

150 DAYLESFORD & MACEDON

170 TRAVELLER’S TIPS

153 THE MURRAY 154 GIPPSLAND 158 HIGH COUNTRY

clockwise from top left: Cape Schanck Lighthouse, Mornington Peninsula; Albert Park Lake; Luna Park; The Balconies lookout, Grampians National Park; Shipwreck Coast, Great Ocean Road; Melbourne Central Shot Tower; Brighton Beach bathing boxes; Sovereign Hill, Ballarat; Bollard Sculpture Walk, Geelong foreshore.

Australian & luxury

designers Find the

perfect gift EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR TOURISTS

Shop in

Style

T HE NE CH A DS W TONE Melbourn

l

e’s icon for just got eve all things luxury n better

ike any longs tanding evolution brand, is essential.

Burberry, – The Fash Chadstone Chanel, ion Capi Coach, Esca Emporio tal, the premier da, Arma shopping Jimmy Choo ni, Gucci, Hugo centr Australia Boss, , Louis Vuitt and a fashi e in for Australia Omega, on mecc Prada, Salva on, Miu Miu, ns and inter a visitors, and Tiffa tore Ferra national has recen ny & Co. gamo tly unveiled developm Among Chad its new ent and stone’s upgr now boas 500 store unbe ts atable dinin ade are more than s under an g and lifest impressiv 2700-tile To quell yle optio e glass roof. appetites, ns. a new Food of street-styl Popular chain retai Atrium e eats, an renowned ler Laneway alfresco luxury nam H&M, and Dining and a Dinin Givenchy es Céline, g Terrace for drink , Dior Hom s and nibb Fendi, perfect me, Valen les serve Loewe are something up tino and the amon for every g the lates offerings. one. Visito now also t fashion Cont rs can enjoy the lates brands Maje emporary inter the state t movies national -of-the-art , Sandro at Hoyts comp are also and The While visito welcome Kooples lex. rs and local additions. the new The lates s alike disco Chadstone t labels at ver , work conti establishe Chadstone the highl d line-up y anticipate nues for join an that inclu best of inter d 2017 open the south des the ern hemi national ing of sphere’s luxury such Discovery first Lego as Centre, span 2800 squa ning a mass re metres. ive

With so much more you’ll need to experienc more than e, all that Chad a day to enjoy stone has yourself to offer. to a worl Treat d of luxu of indulgenc ry, a worl e, a worl d d of style Chadstone at – The Fash chadstone ion Capi tal. .com.au

Shop in style at the Fashion Capital.

Visit chad

Explore over 150 offers exclu sively available to tourists visiting Chad stone.

stone.com .au to find out more!

Back cover: The inside scoop on Chadstone – The Fashion Capital.

SCAN ME!

Download the Destinations Victoria App and use your mobile device to scan any page marked with this icon for a unique interactive experience (see page 72 for more details).

FROM THE EDITOR

M

elbourne is a shopper’s paradise.

From vintage arcades to laneway boutiques, and quirky markets to epic malls, there is no shortage of retail therapy on offer to cure what ails you. Our cover story, ‘Arcade Games’ explores the history of shopping in Melbourne, from the gold rush riches that helped build some of our most beloved arcades, through to today’s big brands and contemporary retailers. We catch up with storyteller and tour guide Dale Campisi, and historian and founder of Melbournewalks.com Meyer Eidelson, who shed light on the city’s fascinating retail history, and the heritage-listed arcades that have become attractions in their own right.

Our dedicated guide to Melbourne’s precincts is back. Revisit established inner city haunts and get to know emerging hot spots, as well as the retail centres, restaurants and attractions that make this city great. But don’t take our word for it, we’ve checked in with some of our fave locals to bring you an insider’s perspective on the best places to eat and play around Victoria. Meet science teacher cum TV presenter Gorgi Coghlan, Arts Centre Melbourne CEO Claire Spencer, Elk Accessories co-founder Marnie Goding, comedian and DJ Andrew McClelland, and wine guru Justin Dry. Our extended regional coverage includes an eye-opening feature on the amazing offerings at galleries in Bendigo, Ballarat, Castlemaine, Shepparton and the Yarra Valley, as well as tempting experiences, restaurants, road trips and attractions from the Grampians to the Goldfields, Daylesford to the High Country, Phillip Island to the Mornington Peninsula.

We hope you enjoy the mag, and find a little inspiration for your next adventure within these pages.

Happy trails!

PUBLISHER & Managing Director Ross Copeland Editor Cassy Polimeni cassy@publicitypress.com.au SUB Editor Ross McGravie DESIGN Eva Herzog Amy Tanner Cathy Silvio Brooke Braslin NATIONAL advertising MANAGER Sue Kallincos sue@publicitypress.com.au ADMINISTRATION Gina Copeland

SPECIAL THANKS Publicity Press Pty Ltd would like to express our gratitude to the following individuals and organisations for their invaluable assistance:

Dale Campisi, Meyer Eidelson, Bianca Farmakis, Guy Greenstone, Steve Jeffares, Gorgi Coughlan, Holly Sinclair, Justin Dry, Marnie Goding, Meghan O’Donnell, Nelly Phelan, Andrew McClelland, Emma Jeffrey, Rachael Pearce, Emma Busowsky Cox, Jennifer Kalionis, Eliza Ordinans, Katrina Raymond, Mark Orlandi, Sonja King, Amina Barolli, Kelly Smith, Red Hill Truffles, MP Experience, Tina Orr, Colin Thompson, Izabelle So, Lee Malady, Mark Kininmoth, Scott McCallum, Susannah Doyle, Alison Lloyd, Jacqui Loftus-Hills, Rebecca Andrews, Phoebe Honey, Karen Zheng.

Destinations Victoria is published biannually.

All material in this issue is Copyright © 2016-17 Publicity Press Pty Ltd. All rights are reserved.

No part of the contents of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher or editor.

Articles represent the views of their authors and are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor. All information included is correct at time of writing, however some prices, events, venues and other information may change with time. Readers are advised to check all details with relevant providers before acting upon such information.

We’d love to hear of new destinations for inclusion in future issues. Likewise, if some of our favourite haunts have closed their doors, we look forward to visiting whatever has opened in their place.

Destinations Victoria is produced by Publicity Press Pty Ltd ABN 31 005 490 068 1 Albert Street (PO Box 4331) Richmond VIC Australia 3121 publicitypress.com.au For advertising enquiries or to purchase your own copy of Destinations Victoria please call +613 9804 4700

CASSY POLIMENI Editor

FOLLOW US: Destinations Australia magazines @destinationsmags

DAW N A striking, seductive encounter The new Dawn – a Rolls-Royce like no other.

A striking true four-seater, it captures the exhilaration of open-top driving with an interior crafted in anticipation of unforgettable moments between friends.

Anything is possible. Contact us to start your journey.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Melbourne 80 City Road, Southbank, VIC 3006 | T: 0418 172 888 ZAG.COM.AU | FACEBOOK.COM/ZAGAMEAUTOMOTIVE

Our

Editor’s picks

Tradition & modernity

A

viation is a passion at Bell & Ross, and reinterpreting on-board instruments is its guiding force. The iconic BR 01 watch took its inspiration from the clock in an aircraft cockpit and has a stylish, subtly retro design. This watch has a case, bezel and winding crown made from bronze. In a final touch, an elegant band of

rosewood encircles the dial of the watch. The dial pairs white lacquer Roman numerals and fine blued steel hands in tribute to the aesthetic of these 18th century instruments. Finally, the power reserve, which at 56 hours is much greater than usual, is a tribute to long ocean crossings. bellross.com

Like mama used to make

Royal Arcade

T

he Royal Arcade has provided an undercover shopping link between Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall, Little Collins Street and Elizabeth Street since 1869. The two giant statues of Gog and Magog have struck the hour of Gaunt’s clock, on the hour, since 1892, and the arcade has long been known for its collection of quality boutiques and stores. Visit the arcade and be tempted with gifts and jewellery, cafes, chocolatiers and even a magic shop.

Located at the ‘Detroit’ end of Melbourne’s CBD and tucked away in the new Upper West Side development Pretty Mama is a tropical oasis bringing the fresh bright flavours of the Caribbean to the people of Melbourne. Grab a seat at the bar and relax to the sounds of calypso, reggae and ska whilst sipping on one of the many fresh fruit cocktails and let the warm summer breeze whisk you away to a place you’d rather be. prettymama.com.au

royalarcade.com.au

Never Miss a FLIGHT

SkyBus Airport Express services offer convenient and highly frequent transportation to and from Melbourne Tullamarine International Airport all day, every day.

Since 1978, SkyBus has safely transported just over 3.5 million passengers annually between the City and Melbourne Airport. Early 2016 saw the addition of a Melbourne Airport service operating to Frankston and surrounding bayside suburbs (FAPAS). Melbourne Airport passengers can now travel direct to and from St Kilda with the launch of their new St Kilda Express service. skybus.com.au

6 | destinations Victoria

ONE OF A KIND Collins234 Boutique Place is home to some of Melbourne’s finest unique fashion, beauty and specialty retailers.

Conveniently located near the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets, it is accessible via one of Melbourne’s distinctive trademark laneways – Howey Place. Host to exciting in-centre events and special promotions, and offering a CBD shopping experience that is on the to-do list of savvy local shoppers and fashion conscious tourists alike, make Collins234 your one stop shopping destination for fashion, beauty, books and specialty stores. collins234.com.au

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION A TRULY TAILOR MADE EXPERIENCE Discover more than 500 stores, including Australian and International designer boutiques plus world-class luxury brands.

Enjoy four dining precincts including the new dining terrace and be entertained at the state-of-the-art Hoyts cinema. All under one spectacular roof and just 25 minutes from the city.

TOURISM SHOPPING PASSPORT Enjoy over 150 offers exclusive to tourists visiting Chadstone – The Fashion Capital.

DISCOVER NEW STORES Double-story flagship stores H&M, Uniqlo and Zara • Contemporary International brands Maje, Sandro, and The Kooples • Luxury brands arriving December 2016 – Céline, Fendi, Givenchy, Dior Homme, Valentino and Loewe •

TRAVEL IN STYLE FREE FASHION SHUTTLE

Travel to Chadstone - The Fashion Capital on our complimentary Fashion Shuttle which runs hourly, 7 days a week departing from Federation Square.

For enquiries, timetable and booking information, visit chadstone.com.au

Arcade games

Cover Story | Melbourne

The history of shopping in Melbourne is a colourful one, shaped as much by the city’s laneways and arcades as its one-of-a-kind wares, Cassy Polimeni writes

IMAGES: SUPPLIED, shutterstock.com, TOURISM VICTORIA (MARK CHEW, ROBERTO SEBA), AND AMY TANNER

B

eneath Melbourne’s shiny veneer beats a more traditional heart. Clues to the past are everywhere – from the bluestone laneways underfoot, to ornate stained-glass ceilings in heritage arcades – you just have to know where to look. Travel writer, storyteller and tour guide Dale Campisi has lived all over Melbourne, and believes every neighbourhood has something different to offer.

“Melbourne really is a collection of villages, each with its own unique personality. Scratch the surface on any street, in any suburb, and all kinds of amazing stories unfold,” he says.

Campisi runs monthly ‘Melbourne Central Unlocked’ tours that take visitors inside the historic Coop’s Shot Tower preserved within Melbourne Central. Completed in 1888, it once produced lead shot balls used by game hunters. It was Melbourne’s tallest building until the mid-1940s and remains one of the city’s most enduring landmarks (melbournecentral.com.au). When it comes to city shopping, Campisi suggests taking the back streets.

“My top tip to is to find your way from Flinders Street Station to Melbourne Central without taking the high street. You’ll find big brands, local stores, new businesses and old, all jostling for space along the narrow laneways and ornate arcades.”

Melbourne’s changeable weather makes arcade shopping even more attractive, which has been part of its lure since the early days. Completed in 1870, the Royal Arcade was Melbourne’s first and Australia’s longest-standing, while Campisi says The Block Arcade has always been the most fashionable.

He adds, “Centre Place was lined with boutiques and did a strong trade with commuters, as did The Causeway, which connects to Bourke Street Mall. But it wasn’t until a Melbourne City Council initiative in the 1990s that the unique potential of Melbourne’s laneways for shops, bars and cafes [was recognised].”

Campisi has a few favourites. “I love Guildford Lane for its look. I’m currently crushing on Russell Place

destinations Victoria | 9

Emporium

Great cities are walkable cities. You can walk the Melbourne grid in half an hour, yet within that grid are the laneways, an endless labyrinth of possibilities. because it’s a destination in itself, [with] great bars and restaurants, and excellent shopping at contemporary jeweller Pieces of Eight and 124 Shoes.

Crossley Street of Bourke is also great, with its big Pellegrini’s sign and hip tiny tenancies.”

Choosing a favourite arcade is tougher, but the European-inspired, National Trust-listed Block Arcade, with its mosaic tiles and magnificent glass dome comes out on top (theblock.com.au).

“My partner Brady and I love its history and ostentatiousness, Mr Wares quality goods and the Hopetoun Tea Rooms (which has been going since the arcade opened in 1892!). We’ve made a ritual of getting dark peppermint chocolate frogs from Haigh’s.”

For Melbourne historian Meyer Eidelson, on the other hand, choosing a favourite arcade is tough.

“That’s like being asked to pick a favourite child!

If pressed, I’d probably say the Royal Arcade. It shows that true style is ageless, and has an astonishing variety of venues – handmade chocolates, dolls, jewellery, vintage, coffee, tailors – plus Melbourne icons Father Time and Gog and Magog.”

According to legend, Gog and Magog were giants captured by Brutus and forced to guard the gateway of a London palace. Their 7-foot tall effigies have been striking the hour on Gaunt’s Clock since 1892 (royalarcade.com.au).

Eidelson co-founded Melbourne Walks in 1991 (melbournewalks.com), and believes Melbourne’s laneways are part of what makes the city great.

“Great cities are walkable cities,” he says. “You can walk the Melbourne grid in half an hour. Yet within that

10 | destinations Victoria

Cover Story | Melbourne

Chapel Street, South Yarra

Lygon Street, Carlton

grid are the laneways, an endless labyrinth of possibilities.”

CITY CENTRE Bourke Street Mall is a pedestrian strip between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets, home to David Jones, Myer and Melbourne’s GPO, a former post office that now houses H&M’s flagship store and Larsen Jewellery (melbournesgpo.com). For quality diamond jewellery visit Charles Rose, or head down Elizabeth Street to The Strand for an exciting mix of fashion and lifestyle retailers (thestrandmelbourne.com.au). Further north, QV on Lonsdale Street is a microcosm of Melbourne, interlaced with laneways and an eclectic mix of shops and cafes (qv.com.au).

Collins Street delivers a world of shopping experiences along one glorious promenade. It’s one of the city’s social and financial hubs with a mix of hotels, live theatres and the Town Hall in residence. Collins Place is home to cinemas, dining and local and international brands (collinsplace.com.au), while Collins 234 has unique fashion, beauty and specialty retailers (collins234.com.au). St Collins Lane is a north-to-south pathway through the city, bringing together iconic brands such as Ecco, Calibre, Maggie T, UGG and Birkenstock (stcollinslane.com).

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD These are the villages Campisi talked about – inner city suburbs, each with their own distinct character.

North of the city, visit Fitzroy’s Gertrude Street for independent offerings from Cottage Industry, Pickings and Parry and Third Drawer Down, or stroll down Brunswick Street for cafes, books and alternative shops.

You’ll also find an exciting mix of independent designers, galleries, cafes and restaurants at Lygon Court in Carlton (lygoncourt.com.au), and Sydney Road in Brunswick (sydneyroad.com.au).

destinations Victoria | 11

Melbourne | Cover Story

Chapel Street is a walkable strip crossing three suburbs in Melbourne’s south (chapelstreet.com.au).

The South Yarra stretch incorporates cafes, designer boutiques, the iconic Jam Factory, and Como Centre (comocentre.com.au). Prahran is jam-packed with its own brand of boutiques, cafes and funky Greville Street, home to vintage clothing, designer creations, bars and a beloved record store, while in Windsor rare books and antiques nestle up against relaxed bars and plentiful dining.

In Camberwell over 400 stores including fashion, food, beauty, an undercover fresh food market and the iconic art deco Rivoli Cinema all spill out from Camberwell Junction (camberwellshopping.com.au).

High Street Armadale is the premier destination for leading fashion labels, art and antique galleries, jewellery and one of the city’s largest collections of bridal boutiques (highstreetarmadale.com.au).

And in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most exclusive suburbs, Toorak Village boasts over 270 shops and businesses and is famous for fashion boutiques, cafes and fine dining, luxurious beauty parlours and hair salons (toorakvillage.com.au) LUXE SHOPPING Located on the site of the Myer Emporium, Emporium Melbourne was carefully redeveloped to preserve its heritage-listed 19th and 20th century facades. It’s home to Australian and international designers and innovative concept stores, from 8th Avenue Watch Co. and Aesop to Alannah Hill and Carla Zampatti (emporiummelbourne.com.au). At the “Paris end” of Collins Street, towards Treasury Gardens, splash out on offerings from Cartier, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and the new Chopard showroom. Georges on Collins is one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings, with a history dating back to the Gold Rush years. Today it keeps things classy with fashion, fine food and books (georgesoncollins.com.au). In Southbank, Crown brings together world-leading designers, from Monards and Harrolds to Prada and Bulgari (crownmelbourne.com.au/shopping).

In Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, Chadstone – The Fashion Capital has one of Australia’s most significant collections of luxury brands under one roof, including Burberry, Chanel, Emporio Armani, Georg Jensen, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co.

GET CENTRED For a world of options under one roof, visit Melbourne’s expansive shopping malls and centres. South Yarra’s Jam Factory incorporates cinemas, a communal food hall, and retailers including Cue, Nine West, Target, Topshop and Topman.

With centres in Airport West, Doncaster, Fountain Gate, Knox, Southland and Geelong, Westfield has 12 | destinations Victoria

Clockwise from TOP left: Archival photo of the Elizabeth Street entrance to The Block Arcade; Magog standing guard over the Royal Arcade; Melbourne’s Golden Mile; King’s Arcade, Armadale; Royal Arcade interior; Georges then and now; Chadstone – The Fashion Capital.

Cover Story | Melbourne

destinations Victoria | 13

Melbourne | Shopping

Clockwise from left: XXXXXXX

14 | destinations Victoria

Cover Story | Melbourne

Melbourne covered. Whether it’s beauty, fashion or lifestyle products you’re after, you’ll find them in one of these sprawling and well-equipped shopping centres (westfield.com.au). In Ringwood, the always evolving Eastland offers a stylish retail, dining, leisure and entertainment experience (eastland.com.au).

Victoria’s fifth-largest shopping centre, Highpoint in Melbourne’s west boasts over 500 stores including Australian and international designer fashion, homewares and lifestyle brands, plus more than 7000 parking spaces (highpoint.com.au).

At Chadstone – The Fashion Capital, international and luxury brands rub shoulders with prominent Australian designers to deliver the country’s most impressive fashion and food offerings, accompanied by dedicated luxury and dining precincts (chadstoneshopping.com.au).

If further proof of Melbourne’s status as Australia’s fashion capital and retail centre was needed, look no further: Australia’s oldest department store, David Jones, has long resided in two buildings on either side of Bourke Street, and in 2016 David Jones relocated its Australasian headquarters from Sydney to Melbourne (davidjones.com.au).

BARGAIN HUNTERS Melbourne is overflowing with tempting treats for bargain hunters. Harbour Town Shopping Centre in the Docklands has over 120 outlets and 70 specialty stores, including fashion, footwear, and jewellery, plus an expansive food court and plenty of activities for the whole family (harbourtownmelbourne.com.au).

Nearby Spencer Outlet Centre, conveniently located next to Southern Cross Station in the Docklands precinct, offers a mix of retail outlet stores – from high street fashion to shoes, health and beauty (spenceroutletcentre.com.au).

At the other end of the Docklands is DFO South Wharf, a big brand outlet store including homewares, furniture, clothing and sport and camping equipment (dfo.com.au). Further afield you’ll find DFO Essendon, DFO Moorabbin and Brand Smart in Nunawading (brandsmart.com.au).

If boutique shopping is more your style, Bridge Road, Richmond is hard to beat. Discover the history of this heritage street via historical plaques outside today’s furniture stores and fashion boutiques (bridgerd.com.au).

OPPOSITE: The Block Arcade as seen from Collins Street, circa 1900s.

destinations Victoria | 15

Melbourne | Shopping

MARKET PLACE Set against the iconic backdrop of St Kilda Beach, St Kilda Esplanade Market features over 150 unique stalls of hand crafted artwork, wood products, jewellery, accessories and more. Open Sundays 10am-4pm (May to September) and 10am–5pm (October to April) (stkildaesplanademarket.com.au).

South Melbourne Market is the quintessential village market, where people come to meet and connect, as well as buy fresh food and produce.

Open from 8am Wednesday, Friday and weekends (southmelbournemarket.com.au).

Affectionately known as “Queen Vic” or the “Vic Market”, the Queen Victoria Market is a bustling inner-city market with more than a century of history. You will find everything from local produce and imported gourmet foods to cosmetics, clothing and souvenirs spread over two city blocks. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays (qvm.com.au).

Every Sunday from 10am–4pm, local artisans fill Arts Centre Melbourne’s lawn for the Makers’ Market, which showcases unique, handmade goods ranging from arts and crafts to freshly made delicacies. Everything on offer is produced locally, making it the perfect place to nab a unique gift or souvenir (artscentremelbourne.com.au).

The Camberwell Market is a treasure trove for pre-loved wares, with countless stalls offering everything from the most delicate string of vintage pearls to records, buttons, boots and hardwood furniture. It runs on Sundays from 6.30am–12.30pm (camberwellsundaymarket.org). DV

16 | destinations Victoria

THIS PAGE: Scenes from Queen Victoria Market.

OPPOSITE: St Kilda Esplanade Market; the Arts Centre Sunday Market.

Shopping | Melbourne

ARCADE CENTRAL The Block Arcade Dating back to 1892, The Block Arcade was designed in a Boom version of the French Renaissance style, with striking features including stained glass windows, ceiling paintings and a classical Victoria-patterned mosaic floor. It is home to Haigh’s Chocolates, Crabtree & Evelyn, Adriano Carbone Master Tailors, Basement Discs and the famous Hopetoun Tea Rooms. theblock.com.au

Royal Arcade Built in 1869, the Royal Arcade connects Little Collins Street to the Bourke Street Mall. The building’s Renaissance Revival style has been maintained through a series of renovations and restorations, including adding an extensive skylight to increase natural light.

Here you’ll find the likes of Koko Black, Hunter Gatherer and Tivoli Jewellers. royalarcade.com.au

Nicholas Building Perched on the corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, the Nicholas Building was built in 1926 in the Chicago style and was once the centre of Melbourne’s garment industry. These days it’s something of a creative hub, with cartoonists, haberdashers, milliners and jewellers among its residents. thenicholasbuilding.blogspot.com

Melbourne’s GPO From postal hall to fashion hub, Melbourne’s sprawling GPO building is an impressive example neo-Renaissance style architecture. It’s home to Australia’s first H&M store, along with Larsen Jewellery and a range of great cafes and restaurants. melbournesgpo.com

destinations Victoria | 17

DioN LEE, LEVEL Two

mJ BALE, LEVEL Two

ALiCE mCCALL, LEVEL Two

When you enter the reimagined world that is Emporium Melbourne, you will feel like you have stumbled upon something truly unique. A sublime fusion of design, food and fashion flows through the architectural veins, setting the pace in a sea of retail sameness

S

ince opening in 2014, emporium melbourne has firmly established itself as the City’s pre-eminent shopping destination, an experience like no other. World class in every way, innately melbourne in the finer details, the Centre marks a dramatic integration of the old and the new.

18 | destinations Victoria

Passing through the grandiose 1920 myer façade, emporium melbourne has a way of immersing you into what feels like a living art piece. every angle is visually stimulating, from the mesmerising design to the world’s leading brands showcasing their luxury flagship stores in standout style.

Be prepared for a sensory explosion with food offerings that redefine the very notion of shopping sustenance. The aromas and visual delights from a spectacular cafe court are set against a backdrop of soaring ceilings reminicent of melbourne’s uber cool laneway eateries. make your way to level four where you’ll find iconic restaurants Tetsujin and din Tai Fung, the latter previously anointed by The New York Times as one of its ‘Top 10 Restaurants in the World’.

There are lots of little surprises hidden within emporium’s eight floors and impressive 45,000 square metres of retail space. Alongside Japanese casualwear giant UnIQLo, the multi-level Topshop melbourne flagship, and the Japanese minimalist store mUJI, you will find top-tier brands including Chanel, michael Kors, Kate Spade, Ted Baker, Furla and Swarovski amongst the 220 stores in-centre.

Home to one of the largest collections of Australian designers under one roof, you can scope out contemporary fashion from leading

An Emporium Melbourne Promotion

brands like dion Lee, Alice mcCall and manning Cartel, sharp suiting and shirts from leading menswear brand mJ Bale, plus all the latest looks from perennial favourites including Scanlan & Theodore and Camilla.

The Lower Ground is the hub for youth and urban wear. delve deep into Superdry for some Americanameets-Japanese-graphics street wear.

The Waiting Room by dr. denim is the fi rst stand-alone store in melbourne from the Swedish jean-smiths, as well as graffitiinspired, cult new york brand, Zoo york, also making its Australian debut at emporium melbourne. or head to level one for a mix of middle to high-end brands including diesel, Aesop, and Calvin Klein.

A divine juxtaposition of gallery gloss and matte melbourne black, emporium melbourne is a must-see experience when visiting the city.

Need to know 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne FoLLoW US EmporiumMelbourne @emporiummelbourne emporiummelbourne.com.au

THiS PAGE, from ToP: Emporium melbourne interior; Emporium melbourne CafĂŠ Court.

destinations Victoria | 19

Our

Editor’s picks

TIME TO SHINE Since 2013, Melbourne Watch Company has been on a mission to produce outstanding timepieces that are both stylish and accessible. The Portsea range is no exception, combining unique ceramic dials and precision mechanical movements to present a modern take on the classic Marine Chronometer style. For more info on the Melbourne Watch Company range, or to order your own timepiece, visit the website.

Tandem skydive over some of Australia’s most spectacular beach, city and bushland panoramas! This adventure tourism attraction offers tandem skydiving all over Australia. Experience the ultimate thrill of freefall at over 200km/hr for up to an insane 60 seconds, and then float under canopy for 5-7 minutes soaking up the spectacular views.

melbournewatch.com.au

skydive.com.au

REACH FOR THE SKIES

MEET YOU AT FED SQUARE At the top of Fed Square, Il Pom Italian restaurant offers Melbourne’s best people-watching perch over a coffee, lunch or dinner, pinot, grappa or birra – it’s Fed Square’s own little Italy.

Meanwhile, Time Out Fed Square continues to be a favourite for Melbourne locals and visitors, with all day dining from an extensive international menu 365 days a year. See and be seen at these iconic restaurants in the heart of Melbourne. ilpomitalian.com.au timeoutfedsquare.com.au 20 | destinations Victoria

Where else would you expect to find a Melbourne cushion that’s actually made in Melbourne, other than The Melbourne Shop by Lumbi! With retailers in the Melbourne CBD and Fitzroy, with the manufacturing located in the rear of the Brunswick Street store. They make and stock a wide range of products and an almost endless array of print themes from arty to antique but always definitely a little different. themelbourneshop.com.au

HANDBAGS

LUGGAGE

ACCESSORIES

UNIQUELY M E L B OUR N E Designed in Melbourne - Admired Everywhere

22 h ow e y p lac e m elb o u rn e c i t y

-

p h o n e 03 8609 6379

www.spencerandrutherford.com.au

INSIDER

Gorgi Coghlan

I love winter in Melbourne. To me it’s the opera, musical theatre, slowcooked food and stylish coats.

22 | destinations Victoria

The Insiders | Melbourne

Gorgi Coghlan worked as a teacher, reporter and musical theatre star before finding her bliss in a glorious double life, co-hosting The Project in Melbourne, and running a farm outside Ballarat.

She shares her passion for city and country Life in the country balances me and allows me to completely disconnect from the media.

I never feel like my career is demanding. I now only work on projects and shows that nourish me, and that involve nourishing people. If I’m going to leave my family and my home, it’s got to be for a fun, challenging and exciting project.

An average day starts with the school run and farm jobs in the morning – feeding the horses, chooks, ducks, geese and the dog! Then I head off to Melbourne and love the country drive while catching up on the day’s news. I hit The Project office at midday and it’s meetings, make-up (such a treat) and organised mayhem until the show goes live at 6.30pm. It’s an enormous pleasure and honour to do.

We’d love to expand our family, so after our recent IVF journey we are surrendering and hoping that the universe looks after us.

Career wise, I’m keen to do more singing, head back to the stage and I’ve always wanted to sing in an animated film.

I feel most at home on the stage, singing.

That’s when I feel like I’m doing what I was born to do. It stirs my soul and I’m completely lost in the moment.

Being a keen gardener, I love any chance to re-visit the Melbourne Botanic Gardens.

Jardin Tan is a favourite spot for lunch – Shannon Bennett has nailed the concept for this space and it’s wonderful to enjoy a long lunch, followed by a stroll through the gardens for creative ideas and a sense of peace in the city (jardintan.com.au). I’m also drawn to the Shrine of Remembrance. It’s an important space to reflect on the sacrifices that have been made for us (shrine.org.au).

I love going out for breakfast when I’m in town, and I really enjoy The Kettle Black, on Albert Road in South Melbourne. Great coffee and a delicious and creative breakfast menu (thekettleblack.com.au).

Attica is possibly one of the best restaurants I’ve experienced anywhere in the world, and deserves all its accolades. Ben Shewry is a genius

and Melbourne should be so proud to be home to his food (attica.com.au). I’m an ambassador for The Langham so I enjoy taking my girlfriends there for a cocktail and some city views before we head out (langhamhotels.com).

I love going for a run around The Tan, in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens (rbg.vic.gov.au).

It reminds me of a mini Central Park in New York – and you have to run up the hill!

Port Melbourne dog beach is one of my favourite outdoor hangouts. It’s so much fun and the dogs create wonderful entertainment. Dog beaches are important because they encourage people and families to get out and exercise.

We are so lucky to have such an incredible hub of world-class entertainment. I’m always amazed at what the programs here offer and I’m never disappointed. The Arts Centre (artscentremelbourne.com.au) and the Melbourne Recital Centre (melbournerecital.com.au) are two of my favourite destinations for a night out.

I’ve always wanted to dive with the sharks at the Melbourne Aquarium. Maybe I’ll take the plunge this year for my birthday (melbourneaquarium.com.au).

I have a sweet tooth, and the Tivoli Road Bakery in South Yarra is fabulous – great coffee, delicious sandwiches and incredible treats and cakes (tivoliroad.com.au). It’s just around the corner from The Project office so we love it. Burch and Purchese in South Yarra is also well worth a visit – they do amazing cakes (burchandpurchese.com).

If I was entertaining visitors I’d whisk them away to Ballarat of course! We’d eat at Catfish, our local Thai restaurant which was recently awarded a chef hat in The Age Good Food Guide (catfishthai.com.au), and then head to Mitchell Harris for wine and cheese (mitchellharris.com.au).

I love winter in Melbourne. To me it’s the opera, musical theatre, slow-cooked food and stylish coats.

Melbourne locals are easy to spot. They’re dressed in black and carrying a top-notch latte.

Melbourne is … less than one hour’s drive (from Ballarat)! DV

destinations Victoria | 23

Deciding to move with a young family is always a big decision ‌ but the Arts Centre had a strong siren song and we decided to seize the opportunity.

INSIDER

Claire Spencer 24 | destinations Victoria

The Insiders | Melbourne

With a degree in Theology and a background as a Chartered Accountant, a career in the arts wasn’t the obvious choice for Claire Spencer, but she has flourished in roles at the Sydney Opera House and, more recently, Arts Centre Melbourne. She waxes lyrical about the the arts and her new hometown I never expected to work in the arts but it took me all of three days to fall in love with this industry and the wonderful creative people that populate it. The Arts Centre is a complex business with many stakeholders in an industry that is undergoing a lot of change. I dreamed of a role like this and couldn’t be more thrilled to be doing it here in Melbourne.

Deciding to move with a young family is always a big decision and making the move to Melbourne was significant for us. The Sydney Opera House was a big part of my life for many years and I had a terrific team there. It’s an incredibly beautiful place to have in your life every day.

But the Arts Centre had a strong siren song (without the fabled deception of sirens!) and we decided to seize the opportunity. Melbourne is particularly lucky in that its cultural precinct is extremely well located (artscentremelbourne.com.au).

My job is not a typical 9-5 role, that’s for sure! I like to have a quiet half hour at my desk first thing to scan the papers, catch up on correspondence and pen some hand written notes. Then the day starts at a cracking pace with meetings and a walk around the Arts Centre to sense the venue vibe for the day. External stakeholder relations are an important part of what we do, and I often meet with donors, sponsors and companies who perform here. If the schedule allows, I also like to spend time with the production crew – they are at the forefront of what we do and I love to hear what’s happening on our stages. The day often ends with dinner or a show – although I have to be a bit selective so I still get to spend time with the children and get some sleep.

Fatto is one of several great meeting spaces in Hamer Hall and provides amazing views of Melbourne and its river precinct. The team have a great range of cocktails, and a wide choice of contemporary food. There is also a great happy hour (fatto.com.au).

I love a long walk around the bay or Albert Park Lake.

We are very lucky to have those things so close to the city in Melbourne, and our puppy (Steve the Cavoodle) loves a long walk. We are also discovering the Botanic Gardens (rbg.vic.gov.au), and venturing further afield to the Mornington Peninsula.

Middle Park has a great selection of family restaurants where we feel really comfortable,

and Cowderoys Dairy in St Kilda West is our favourite local cafe with great coffee, great food, a friendly community and a park opposite where the kids can play (cowderoysdairy.com.au).

We love the wide open spaces of the St Kilda foreshore where the kids and our dog can really let their hair down on the beach. Even in winter it’s a great place to rug up and visit. The cafes along the beach make it perfect for a casual family outing. Cicciolina on Acland Street is one of our favourite restaurants. It’s where my husband took me on our first trip to Melbourne, and it’s now a local for us. Great food, great wine and I love the back bar (cicciolina.com.au).

I’m not a regular gym junkie, but Melbourne is blessed to have so many public recreational areas close by.

I especially enjoy a walk around the Tan, which I can do at a leisurely pace (my preferred option!) or take a more rigorous approach if I’m feeling in the mood.

I’d heard so much about the Fairfield Boathouse as a great brunch option and trekked there recently with my family for a weekend treat. It’s not far from the centre of Melbourne and you feel as though you’re in the country. It’s just amazing to arrive and discover so many people having such a good time (fairfieldboathouse.com).

We have so many great regional cultural experiences, but I’m always excited by the great international exhibitions which are programmed at the Bendigo Art Gallery. It’s a short drive from Melbourne and there’s plenty more to see and do in this history-packed city in the heart of our state (bendigoartgallery.com.au).

Autumn in Melbourne has the most stable weather, and the long days before the end of daylight savings provide the ideal opportunity for a leisurely dinner outdoors.

This, coupled with the many festivals happening around Melbourne in autumn, make it one of the most exciting times of year to be in our great city.

Melburnians have this fascination with wearing black (at least the women do), and it’s surprising how often you go into a room of people and find they are all similarly dressed. It’s a truly interesting phenomenon which I enjoy rebelling against, often with one of my favourite colourful dresses.

Melbourne is … one city, many great places. DV

destinations Victoria | 25

Melbourne | The Insiders

INSIDER

Marnie Goding From event management at Melbourne Zoo to co-founding internationally successful jewellery and clothing label Elk, Marnie Goding has had a colourful career. She shares her passion for the creative life and the city of Melbourne

26 | destinations Victoria

The Insiders | Melbourne

Sometimes life throws up opportunities or new paths to follow and if you are lucky, you love it. That’s the way it was for me. Making the jump from events and marketing to jewellery was not a huge stretch. The biggest decision was whether my husband [jeweller Adam Koniaras] and I should work together. But we are lucky and balance each other out so well. When you are passionate about something it just rolls along naturally and Elk took off so quickly that a lot of time we just had to keep up!

It is the greatest buzz for both Adam and I to see happy staff and suppliers earning a livelihood from the business we built. We have an incredible team of staff and so my day is spent liaising with them and making sure everyone is on the same page. My role is also to challenge, create and push the team to continually evolve the brand, to improve and to be creative. I can be a bit hard to please and I’m always urging us into challenges and seeking betterment.

What I love the most about the job is the people, and the satisfaction that what we do supports hundreds, if not thousands, of people all over the world. We remind our staff that it is because of what we do that many people have food on the table.

Running a fashion business is hard work and you have to push forward or you get left behind. We make very calculated decisions about all aspects of the business and make sure we are always in control so that nothing surprises us. This year we’re looking at a new website, a possible retail outlet in Melbourne, an office refit, a brand refresh, and a lot more work in the USA! We are northside residents and food lovers, so for us the perfect day would start with a coffee and an Italianstyle breakfast at Umberto in Thornbury. Marco and his father make strong Italian coffee in a relaxed, friendly and unpretentious environment – it’s not too bitter and always the perfect temperature (umberto.com.au). We’d then head to Heide Museum of Modern Art for morning inspiration and more coffee (heide.com.au), followed by lunch at South of Johnston (southofjohnston.com.au) and then some cruising around Collingwood and Fitzroy for shopping, gallery visits and people watching on Gertrude, Smith and Brunswick streets. We’d finish with dinner and amazing cocktails at Smith & Daughters (smithanddaughters.com), and a late night drink and jazz at Uptown Jazz Café (uptownjazzcafe.com).

Embla is one of my favourite places to eat in the city.

It’s amazing! Wood fired delicacies, amazing cheeses, a fantastic wine list, awesome service and a cosy banquette for cooler nights (uptownjazzcafe.com).

Cumulus Up is also a great place to meet friends. It’s a beautifully designed space, perfect for a few drinks with friends. There’s a sensational wine list and great bar food as a bonus. It’s not too big, too loud or too boisterous. You

feel like you can catch up properly and be amongst it without yelling (cumulusinc.com.au/up).

We are lucky enough to have a house on the coast in Ocean Grove. This is our hideaway, our leveller. Adam surfs and the rugged coast offers us all a place to escape and play. It is old school coastal, only 1.5 hours from Melbourne and nothing too fancy – just perfect for us.

I love going for a run around the Edinburgh Gardens in North Fitzroy. There’s always lots to look at whilst you are pounding the pavement!

There are always amazing gigs on in Melbourne and the surrounding regions. A Day on the Green and other such events are the best if the weather is good (adayonthegreen.com.au).

One touristy thing I would love to do is stay at St Jerome’s Hotel, which is luxury camping on the top of one of Melbourne’s buildings. Lots of fun and food is included (stjeromesthehotel.com.au).

When you are passionate about something it just rolls along naturally and Elk took off so quickly that a lot of time we just had to keep up!

Melbourne has some great secrets up its sleeve.

There is an initiative in Melbourne to save the honey bee and there are hives all over the city and in surrounding suburbs. You can buy honey and beeswax products here (rooftophoney.com.au). Underground Cinema is also amazing. They hold screenings in undisclosed locations, which lets you discover different parts of the city (undergroundcinema.com.au).

If you’re new to Melbourne you should check out the CBD laneways for their originality, uniqueness and secret spots. Collingwood and Fitzroy are great for shopping, galleries and culture. If you want to get a country feel without venturing too far from the city, head to Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, where you’ll find beautiful gardens and lots of shopping options. Barwon Heads is also a lovely little coastal trip with great food and shopping.

Autumn is my favourite time of year in Melbourne.

As the “garden state” we have beautiful trees that line all of our streets. They turn the most amazing colours and the weather lets you layer your clothes (I hate the heat).

Melbourne locals rarely wear heels. We are mostly dressed in black or grey, carrying a coffee and always know where we are going (confidently ducking down alleys)!

Melbourne is … friendly, evolving, culinary, leading, home. DV destinations Victoria | 27

Andrew McClelland

INSIDER

The Insiders | Melbourne

A dapper DJ, beloved comedian and skilled raconteur, Andrew McClelland is truly one of a kind. He shares his unique take on the city of Melbourne Legend has it that underneath Smith Street is a flooded 19th century arcade, a second street if you will. Smith Street was once Australia’s premier shopping street and the arcade was built to provide more space, but it was prone to flooding and so was bricked up. You can supposedly still see the sealed entrances in many Smith Street basements. Fact?

Or just a weird thing for someone to make up? Who can say?

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is the third largest in the world, but it retains a strong sense of community.

There are a number of venues that comics have made their own, so you can drop in on any given night and, Cheers-like, everybody knows your name (comedyfestival.com.au).

I started DJing in the early 2000s and knew I wanted to start my own night for years. Melbourne has always been full of great dance nights, but I wanted to hear The Supremes, The Rolling Stones, Beyonce, The Smiths, RunDMC, Kanye, Chvrches and Blondie all on the same night.

I started ‘Mr. McClelland’s Finishing School’ at Bella Union in 2008, with my old friends Leah Collins and Nicholas Caddaye. The name was just because we liked dressing well and wanted the night to be about the love of dancing, not about picking up. Of course we don’t mind if people get together, but we don’t tolerate sleaze.

Happily, we’ve never had a fight of any kind in eight years, which is something we’re very proud of. We’ve also never had to advertise, which is a subversive joy in this age (bellaunion.com.au).

I know I’m one of the luckiest people in the world to be able to work from home on my own schedule.

Of course the greatest danger in working from home is not working from home, but my day usually holds a little comedy writing, a little lunching, a little boozing, time spent on my great vice (PC gaming), and a whole bunch of music listening. If I have a gig in the evening I’ll look over the comedy or DJing for that night and stress accordingly. Pretty good really.

I’ve always admired the French notion of the flâneur.

A passionate wanderer who strolls from place to place, dressed immaculately and indulging themselves at each stop on the journey.

My perfect Melbourne day begins, well dressed, at the delightful Nshry on the beach at Albert Park.

They have excellent breakfast fare and sublime views overlooking the bay (nshry.com.au). Next, we’d grab our walking cane or umbrellas and walk on through Albert Park, through the adorable St Vincent Gardens, up through South Melbourne possibly stopping at for a reviving drink at Chez Dre. Their coffee has never failed me. Not once. They must screen their baristas damn well.

Oh, and the pastries they have to go with them are divine (chezdre.com.au).

I have a soft spot for a lighter Japanese luncheon, so when we arrive in the city proper our first stop would be lunch at Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen (ikkoryu.com.au) or Izakaya Hachibeh (hachibeh.com.au), then off to the ever-glorious Madame Brussels for cocktails on her terrace along with a socially responsible smoke of the pipe or cigar, should that be your thing (madamebrussels.com). If you’re just looking to get boozy I do enjoy the more traditional pubby charms of the Charles Dickens as they’ve got a pretty good selection of my favourite British ales and big tables for the gang to meet before a gig (charlesdickenstavern.com).

The city boasts literally hundreds of excellent evening spots but the Waiters’ Club is a dear old favourite of mine for dinner, with free-flowing wine in Duralex tumblers and pasta by the mound (20 Meyers Place, Melbourne). Lastly it’s off to the always wildly entertaining Butterfly Club for a comedy or cabaret show and a nightcap (thebutterflyclub.com), then home on public transport with our clothes slightly rumpled, and sleep calling out to us by name.

I’ve always admired the French notion of the flâneur ... a passionate wanderer who strolls from place to place, indulging at each stop on the journey.

With so many amazing live venues in Melbourne it’s hard to pick a favourite, but I do love the Forum because it’s a standing venue, so there’s nobody to tell you to sit down when all you want to do is dance. The Corner Hotel is just as good at this, but not quite as architecturally grand (cornerhotel.com). As for comedy venues, I love ‘Local Laughs’ on Mondays at the Local Taphouse in St Kilda.

The line-up is always excellent and the food and beers are similarly brilliant (thelocal.com.au).

I love ambling and that can cover a wide range of places.

The Botanic Gardens are eternally beautiful and the many paths running through rainforest and bush all over Mt Dandenong are worth the hour’s drive from the city to get to.

I’d love to go skydiving over St Kilda one day. It would be exhilarating to see the city spread out before me and then watch it get closer and closer at an alarming rate (skydive.com.au).

Spring is perfect in Melbourne. Everything smells good, the high heat and winter lows are months away and you can even convince people who live north of the river to come south occasionally. Although, in the middle of winter comedy and music do come in to their own as it’s too cold to try and have any fun outside.

Melbourne is … verdant, wet and culturally undeniable. DV

destinations Victoria | 29

INTERVIEW BY: MANVEEN MAAN

I fell in love with wine early in life.

30 | destinations Victoria

The Insiders | Melbourne

INSIDER

Justin Dry

South Australian born Justin Dry is the co-founder of one of Australia’s fastest-growing companies, wine website Vinomofo. He shares his passion for his job and his adopted hometown of Melbourne Wine is in my DNA. My ancestors planted some of the Barossa Valley’s first shiraz vines which are now 140 years old, and my uncle is a viticulturist and writes a lot of the textbooks you study at university. Before I even drank wine, he conducted tastings and asked me to pick regions, varieties and vintages. So I fell in love with wine early in life.

week, and everything is fresh and homemade. The first time I went I was right next to the kitchen and was raving about the pasta, and the chef just leaned over and said, “Cheers mate, thanks!” He then grabbed the frying pan from the stove and slid the contents onto my plate – it was so connected (cucinettamelb.com.au).

Australian wine has changed immensely over the past decade. Twenty years ago we created what I call ‘sunshine in a bottle’ by putting lots of oak in both reds and whites to create very rich wines. The wines we are making now have uniquely Australian elements, but comfortably stand alongside any in the world.

I love Izakaya Den in the city for great food and fun vibe.

They also have a great sake list (izakayaden.com.au). I also rate The Lake House Daylesford for a lunchtime degustation – incredible food, wine and location (lakehouse.com.au).

For us, it all started with our wine review website, Qwoff. In late 2006 I’d just come back from overseas and was looking for my next business venture. My brother-in-law Andre was filming and editing for wineries, and we connected over our love of wine and decided to do something together. We built up a good audience through Qwoff, then I came up with the idea for a wine deals website, and that’s the one that took off (vinomofo.com).

My most memorable moment was giving my mother a job. When we started Qwoff we weren’t making any money so it was tough. My mum did our accounts for free after her regular job. She was getting back into the work force after a divorce and wasn’t getting paid much. Then she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to go through chemo, and I didn’t have the money to help. When Vinomofo took off I called her and asked how much notice she needed to give because we could employ her full time. I get choked up when I talk about it. She told me that when she got off the phone, she did a dance!

I begin and end my day with meditation, and try to squeeze in another 5-10 minutes in the middle of the day. It helps me start the day right, work hard, and leave the stresses of my day behind so I can focus on home life. It sounds a lot easier than it is, but I manage to achieve it most of the time.

My perfect Saturday begins with a run around the Tan Track at the Royal Botanic Gardens with my wife.

Afterwards we head to breakfast at The Beatt Cafe in Armadale, right next to Toorak train station (thebeatt.com.au). The food is locally sourced and organic and the coffee is great.

We have a late arvo wine at Toorak Wine Cellars, which is a cool, independent place, (toorakcellars.com.au), then head to Cucinetta in South Yarra, where we eat at least once a week. It has an amazing, simple menu that changes every

If I’m hanging out with my AFL [Australian rules football] mates, we go to The London in Richmond, which is a real footy pub. There are big screens, great beer and great pub food. It’s perfect for a night out with my best mates, drinking beer and watching football (thelondon.net.au).

It’s hard to choose a favourite coffee spot so I’ll pick three!

The Final Step is worth supporting. The owner is a great guy who spends most of his time helping third world countries and all profits go to the cause (thefinalstep.com.au). Hobba in Prahran is close to home and lots of fun (hobba.com.au), while Pillar Of Salt in Richmond does great coffee and salads (pillarofsalt.com.au).

The further you get from Melbourne, the better the beaches are. My favourites are down Mornington Peninsula way, places like Sorrento or Portsea, because they’re close to great food and wine. That’s why I have to go to the gym every morning! The beaches southwest of Melbourne are beautiful too, but I love the peninsula because it has a more sheltered bay and plenty of restaurants and wineries in between.

If I’m entertaining visitors, I’ll take them to Mornington Peninsula or the Yarra Valley for a food and wine experience. They’re both beautiful – one country, the other more coastal. We’d also check out the restaurants in Flinders Lane – Chin Chin is always fun (chinchinrestaurant.com.au).

If the timing is right, I’d take them to the MCG to experience an AFL game because it’s so powerful. Even if you don’t care about football, at a big game you can feel the energy in the stadium.

You spot a Melbourne local a mile away! They are generally quite stylish, wearing a scarf and layers of grey, black and blue, sitting at a trendy cafe with a coffee in hand, reading the paper.

Melbourne is … coffee, foodies, MCG, hipsters. DV

destinations Victoria | 31

A Collins Place Promotion

Serious and civilised retail therapy

32 | destinations Victoria

T

hey call the upper section of melbourne’s Collins Street the ‘Paris end’ of the city. Few might realise how accurate that description is when it comes to Collins Place, a building that shares its distinctive architecture with the glass pyramid of the Louvre in Paris – both structures are the handiwork of renowned architect, I.m. Pei. Today Collins Place recognises Pei’s significance further with arrival of Pei modern, the stylish, contemporary restaurant located on the ground level, serving a style of cuisine that, in Paris, they call ‘bistronomy’ – high quality ingredients prepared in uncomplicated ways.

Collins Place represents the convergence of melbourne’s renowned pillars – culture, art and fashion. As the city dresses up for winter, Collins Place – on the corner of Collins and exhibition Streets – joins in the glamour with many of its sartorial tenants showcasing the best seasonal garments and accessories.

Visitors recognise a pervading european élan within the retail precincts of the Place, from the aroma of espresso in the air to the foreign films screening at the Kino cinema. Also similar to europe is the refined environment that allows for a civilised but serious dose of retail therapy. A carefully curated selection of retailers, in airy, open surroundings, offers a refreshingly personalised shopping experience.

Unique Australian retailers share space with international names and Collins Place houses a number of stores that won’t be found elsewhere in the city. Boxt Jewellery, a tiny jewel box of a store located on the ground level, astounds with the amount of unusual and striking fashion jewellery its proprietor Lorna Antoniadis manages to squeeze in. Shop here for hard-to-find designer pieces from the likes of Samantha Wills, Carly Paiker, Pandora, House of emmanuele and Georgini.

Feathers is recognised as one of Australia’s greatest women’s wear brands. Porritt and her team are proud to offer women of all ages and silhouettes endless sophistication, practicality and style. Adding value to women’s lives and making them feel good about themselves. meredith has an established place in Australian fashion as a lifestyle brand for the modern woman looking for timeless style with a contemporary twist. meredith is renowned for its quality knits and classic styling, using luxury yarns and fabrics to curate a collection to suit loyal female followers. meredith is also home to collection designed by Jane Parker, the original Creative director and co-founder of Country Road. Jane brings her quintessential paired back style to meredith creating beautiful pieces that will enhance the modern woman’s wardrobe.

Also on the ground level, Jacqui Fernandes entices customers back again and again with the design savvy, warm and welcoming atmosphere of her flower-filled boutique.

excelling in fine quality day and evening wear, the collection in store allows you to create an entire look, from cocktail dress to cashmere wrap, designer handbag and shimmering accessories. If you’re lucky Jacqui will be there in person to style, charm and inspire you. nashi Collins Place is the flagship store for the award winning chain of coffee and sandwich bars. every day the team create a variety of sandwiches, baguettes, wraps, panini, salads and soups using only the freshest quality ingredients. nashi’s success can be attributed to its award winning coffee (winner of the Golden Bean Award), friendly and efficient customer service and commitment to serving fast, fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch offerings to inner city workers and dwellers every day.

Serving some of melbourne’s favourite sandwiches and salads since 2010, eARL offers a range of products from hot fancy sandwiches made to order, to ready-to-go salads and sandwiches, baked-daily sweets, and locally roasted coffee

by Campos. Quality is the focus here, but they don’t think you should have to wait for it – even a deluxe, made-to-order sandwich takes less than five minutes. ethically sourced meats, handmade artisan breads and seasonally changing menus reflect the kitchen philosophy, where everything is made in-house, from the mayonnaise to the muffins.

International brands such as Giorgio Armani and world leader in luxury men’s clothing ermenegildo Zegna round out the shopping selection, and the Great Space on the lower ground level offers the perfect spot to rest between spending sprees. Ride the escalator up to the lobby of the Sofitel Hotel where you can enjoy an exceptional afternoon tea, a glass of fine Australian wine or a cocktail by the grand piano. Check the Collins Place website or Facebook page for updates on fashion-related news, events and promotions.

A visit to Collins Place is a must for visitors to melbourne. A peaceful oasis surrounded by the bustling city, it’s the perfect spot for people watching and allows one to see the city at its most stylish.

Need to know LOCATION 45 Collins Street, Melbourne (03) 9655 3600

TRADING HOURS Monday to Thursday: 9am – 6pm Friday: 9am – 7pm Saturday: 9am – 5pm Sunday: 10am – 5pm collinsplace.com.au destinations Victoria | 33

Melbourne | Spas

SPA TIME Soothe your soul and reward your senses with a relaxing escape at one of Melbourne’s best day spas PARK CLUB HEALTH & DAY SPA

ENDOTA DAY SPA

Enjoy full use of the pool, tennis court and gym during your visit before settling into a gentle spa treatment by the club’s passionate therapists.

1 Parliament Square (off Parliament Place), Melbourne Tel: (03) 9224 1222 melbourne.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/pure/spas

Soothe yourself from head to toe with body wraps, scrubs and exfoliation, or combine them all in a spa treatment package.

Lower Level 69-71 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Tel: (03) 9650 7171 endotadayspa.com.au

SAKURA LOUNGE Hidden in a Melbourne laneway and home to a modern interior and age-old Eastern therapies, Sakura combines the best of both worlds.

8-10 Warburton Lane, Melbourne Tel: (03) 9642 3663 sakuralounge.com.au

AURORA SPA RETREAT Signature therapies at Aurora include steam treatments, facials, massage and indulgent Spa Retreat packages of two hours or more.

2 Acland Street, St Kilda Tel: (03) 9536 1130 aurorasparetreat.com.au

MISS FOX This is your one-stop shop for make-up, brows, blow drys, massages, spa treatments and skin rejuvenation, all with a touch of vintage glamour.

Levels 1-3, 285 Little Collins Street, Melbourne Tel: 1300 647 736 missfox.com.au

CHUAN SPA Treatments are personalised to realign your mind, body and spirit, using Australian-made Chuan products and European marine-based therapies, combined with Chinese medicine.

The Langham, Melbourne Level 9, 1 Southgate Avenue, Southbank Tel: (03) 8696 8111 chuanspa.com

34 | destinations Victoria

CROWN SPAS – ISIKA AND CROWN Choose from the diverse facilities on offer at Isika Day Spa or the opulent luxury at Crown Spa to complement your stay in Melbourne.

ISIKA DAY SPA 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank Tel: (03) 9292 8327 CROWN SPA Crown Towers, corner Whiteman Street & Queensbridge Street, Southbank Tel: (03) 9292 6182 crownmelbourne.com.au/spas

BOTANICA DAY SPA Located in one of Melbourne’s grandest heritage hotels, Botanica offers advanced facials, luxe manicures, massage, beauty treatments and meditative spa rituals.

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto Shop 1, 495 Collins Street, Melbourne Tel: (03) 9620 5992 botanicadayspa.com.au

MIYABI MASSAGE ON BOURKE One of Melbourne’s oldest Japanese-style salons, Miyabi offers traditional Swedish-style oil massage or energising Shiatsu, and more.

Level 1, 169 Bourke Street, Melbourne Tel: (03) 9662 2097 miyabi.com.au

An Emu Australia Promotion

EMU L

AUSTRALIA

ook in the wardrobe of any Australian and you’ll most likely find a pair of warm and comfortable sheepskin boots.

The distinct seasons mean that once the mercury drops, Aussie feet stay warm and dry in iconic boots produced by Australia’s wool industry, the largest in the world.

EMU Australia is the country’s premium locally-owned and manufactured producer of pure sheepskin products.

The company has been proudly producing footwear, accessories and apparel for over 15 years.

Unlike many other large sheepskin producers, EMU is still proudly Australian owned and operated.

The company is based in Geelong on Victoria’s Surf Coast, in the heart of the world’s finest wool growing district. Just minutes from worldrenowned Bells Beach, it was here in the 1970s that the local Aussie surfers invented the original sheepskin boot.

The EMU brand emerged from a local sheepskin tannery established in 1948. Many of the original tannery workers and craftsmen

36 | destinations Victoria

continue to work on the same site for EMU today. EMU is accredited by the internationally recognised Woolmark symbol as assurance that the products are made of pure Australian wool. The company works to promote the Australian National Campaign for Wool to ensure a bright future for Australia’s wool industry.

These days, EMU’s collections are sold in over 71 countries through more than 5000 stores. EMU proudly promotes our heritage and distinctively Aussie lifestyle. EMU is a truly global brand, with the premium sheepskin products seen at New York Fashion Week, in leading fashion magazines and on the feet of major celebrities from Kate Hudson to Cameron Diaz.

From luxurious knee-high boots for women to vintage leather sheepskin-lined men’s boots, and shoes for kids and babies in every colour of the rainbow, EMU make footwear for the whole family.

They also produce pure wool scarves, hats and gloves and stylish apparel for women.

EMU’s own backyard is the heartland of Australia’s prime sheep and wool grazing region, allowing the company easy access to the best raw materials available. EMU’s sheepskin boots are naturally water resistant, making them perfect to keep you warm and dry. It is incredibly soft with natural elasticity, allowing the fabric to follow the body’s form and regulate your temperature.

The wool inside the boots is super soft and thick – like walking on a cloud! A tough rubber outsole and moulded heel cup make EMU boots hard-wearing and comfortable for all day wear. The products are designed with the wearer in mind, with quality, innovation and style at the forefront of EMU’s design philosophy.

UGG House Melbourne central Shop 138, shot Tower Melbourne Central Melbourne 3000 Ph (03) 9650 0511

UGG House Little collins 317 Little Collins Street Cnr Block Place Melbourne 3000 Ph (03) 9671 4664

UGG House Brandsmart Shop 22, Brandsmart 388 Whitehorse Road Nunawading 3030 Ph (03) 9877 7527

www.ugghouse.com.au destinations Victoria | 37

38| destinations || destinations Victoria 50 2 destinationsVictoria

A Block Arcade Promotion

Iconic Arcade Step back in time at Melbourne’s iconic Block Arcade, a European-inspired shopping precinct boasting high end fashion, jewellery and world-famous tea rooms

S

teeped in history, Melbourne’s iconic Block Arcade is regarded as the finest example of a 19th century shopping complex in the country. Classified by the National Trust and listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, the stunningly preserved arcade offers a premium shopping experience.

Modelled on the arcades of Milan, Paris and London, The Block Arcade features vaulted ceilings adorned with wrought iron, stained glass and intricate plaster ornaments. Marvel at the lavish interior aesthetics as you stroll past luxury jewellery stores, high end fashion, quaint gift shops and quality menswear.

Stop and watch master tailor Adriano Carbone at work in the window above the Elizabeth Street entrance as he wields his giant scissors cutting out another suit and listen for the melodies drifting from Melbourne Basement Discs at 24 Block Place, which often features intimate live performances. Visit galleries including The Art of Dr Seuss, Bromley&Co and Australian by Design for your special piece, or jewellers The French Jewel Box, Rutherford Pearls and Keshett for your special someone.

If you can tear your eyes away from the perfectly presented shop displays and charismatic shop owners, scan the arcade’s marvellous mosaic floor – a classic Victorian design made from tiles manufactured in Italy and a key component of the Block Arcade’s National Trust classification.

Look for the resident German-made heritage-classified little ‘tapping man’ located under the spectacular dome.

He has been tapping the glass in Melbourne for over 50 years.

But the history of the arcade delves deeper than aesthetic beginnings. The site on which the arcade stands was

sold by auction (one of the first to be held in the city of Melbourne) in 1837.

It was purchased for £18 by Henry Batman, brother of John Batman, the founder of Melbourne. Some 50 years later, the site was ravaged by a fire – reportedly the most spectacular ever seen in the city – causing an estimated 200,000 pounds damage to ‘Georges’, the store present there at the time. Three firemen lost their lives in the blaze and, according to local legend, the ghosts of these men haunt the site to this day. It was as a result of this fire that Melbourne’s Metropolitan Fire Brigade was established.

With entrances on Collins Street, Elizabeth Street and Little Collins Street, The Block Arcade is easily accessible, whichever part of the city you happen to be coming from.

Before you leave for the day, be sure to pop into the historic Hopetoun Tea Rooms, established 1893 and named after Lady Hopetoun, wife of Lord Hopetoun, Governor of Victoria at the time the arcade was opened.

Something of a Melbourne institution, the Tea Rooms continue the proud tradition of quality, combining old world charm with fine food amidst the tranquil beauty of the fully restored Block Arcade.

Need to know 282 collins Street, Melbourne theblock.com.au Tours Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only.

To book, call (03) 9654 5244 or email tours@theblock.com.au CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE: Collins Street wing; The Block Arcade entrance in Collins Street in 1902; under the dome; mosaic floor detail; Hopetoun Tea Rooms. destinations Victoria | 39

Our

Editor’s picks

TAKE A PUNT

Take a traditional punt cruise on Ornamental Lake and float around its bays and islands. View the landscapes as never before and get up close to the amazing birdlife and aquatic plants. Tours run year-round and each punt carries up to eight people on a 30-minute tour.

Group and function bookings are available on request. rbg.vic.gov.au/whats-on

Sh opat The Block

With mosaic-tile flooring, a glass canopy and carved stone, the Block Arcade is one of the world’s finest examples of a 19th-century shopping arcade. It was built between 1891 and 1893, and modelled on Milan’s grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Stock up on fashion, jewellery, art and gifts, then tuck into something sweet at Haigh’s Chocolates, or the famous Hopetoun Tea Rooms, whose windows are filled with delicious – and highly photogenic – cakes! The Block Arcade is the place to shop and be seen. theblock.com.au

Journey In comfort EMU has unveiled a refreshed direction inspired by an ‘Ever Natural’ spirit. The Ever Natural evolution is supported by the refined footwear collection with all-natural materials.

Beautiful, simple, comfortable products that improve the journey, wherever life takes you. EMU invests heavily in innovation and design – embracing natural materials, craftsmanship and quality – to create world-leading footwear that lasts. EMU’s ability to innovate, push boundaries and harness all natural materials results in enduring comfort and quality you can trust. With EMU’s Platinum Collection every boot is crafted from fine, A-Grade Australian water-resistant sheepskin and finished using an environmentally friendly tanning process.

Available from UGG House.

Dracula’s has been entertaining audiences for over 35 years, serving up its signature razor-edge comedy, incredible live music, and a love for bizarre art-house madness. Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, ghost train ride and unique comedy-cabaret show featuring a multi-talented cast of naughty vampires.

Book now, call 1800 DRACULAS.

ugghouse.com.au

draculas.com.au

40 | destinations Victoria

YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN AN SUV AND A MASERATI.

Levante. The Maserati of SUVs. The practicality and versatility of an SUV or the power, style and exclusivity of a Maserati? Now you can enjoy both, courtesy of the new Levante. Featuring a 3.0 V6 turbo diesel engine, Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive system, an 8-speed automatic transmission and sophisticated air suspension, the Levante is every inch a refined SUV. Meanwhile, its exclusive Italian styling, luxurious interior and unique exhaust note affirm its Maserati DNA. So that’s one less difficult decision to make. The Maserati of SUVs has arrived. Contact your preferred Zagame Maserati dealership to book in your test drive.

Overseas model shown. LMCT 9479

MASERATI MELBOURNE 501 TOWER, CNR SWANSTON & VICTORIA STREETS, MELBOURNE 3000 PH: 03 9107 2777 MASERATI RICHMOND 430 SWAN STREET, RICHMOND 3121 PH: 03 9270 7000 ZAG.COM.AU | MASERATI.COM.AU

A Time Out / Il Pom Promotion

Where Melbourne meets Tucked within the geometric edges of Federation Square are two sensational dining options.

Which will you choose?

TIME OUT FED SQUARE

IL POM ITALIAN At the top of Fed Square, Il Pom Italian restaurant offers Melbourne’s best people-watching perch over a coffee, lunch or dinner, pinot, grappa or birra. Just look for the red umbrellas.

With a large, heated outdoor section, Il Pom Italian restaurant offers a fantastic fully licenced, dining, coffee and function spot in Melbourne’s cultural hub, as well as offsite catering.

Great for breakfast, to lunch, lattes and the papers, pre theatre dinner and drinks or supper and grappa after, Il Pom Italian restaurant caters to all whims, from an easily curable caffeine craving to an appetite nothing but four courses inspired by nonna will abate.

Whether enjoying a red wine as the rain taps the glass outside in winter, or lazing al fresco in the sun surrounded

by Il Pom Italian offers a Taste of Italy with the most authentic Italian food experience all year round. A Little Italy at Fed Square Melbourne.

Federation Square – The Upper Square 2 Swanston Street, Melbourne (03) 9662 2282 ilpomitalian.com.au CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Bar service at Il Pom Italian; Time Out Fed Square at dusk; Time Out’s bruschetta; al fresco dining at Time Out; fish and chips with local brew.

42 | destinations Victoria

Time Out Fed Square continues to be a favourite for Melbourne locals and visitors. Located in the centre of one of Melbourne’s most iconic tourist destinations and known for all-day dining from an extensive international menu 365 days a year, any time is the right time to take Time Out. Grab a chair on the terrace and take in the sights and sounds of the city, settle in to a booth in the cafe for an intimate meal, or pull up a stool at the bar and enjoy a unique local brew. No need to make a booking – the Time Out team will welcome you from breakfast until late at night.

The large outdoor dining area overlooks Swanston Street and the Fed Square piazza, the summer sun and iconic orange umbrellas – come and watch the world go by.

Whether it’s a quick coffee, leisurely cocktails or just a bite with mates, Time Out’s all-day menu features extensive share plates, a gourmet twist to classic sandwiches and modern Australian mains, with breakfast served until 3pm every day.

Plus a great selection of local and imported wines, beers and summer pitchers along with fun and tasty cocktails.

Federation Square – St Paul’s Court Corner Flinders and Swanston Street, Melbourne (03) 9671 3855 timeoutfedsquare.com.au

‘WHERE MELBOURNE MEETS’ 365 DAYS

8 AM

LATE

Breakfast — Lunch — Dinner

WWW.TIMEOUTFEDSQUARE.COM.AUdestinations Victoria | 43

MODERN JAPANESE SAKE The newest addition to the contemporary Japanese restaurant clan, Sake Flinders Lane offers modern classics alongside unique and ever-changing signature dishes.

Classics such as kingfish jalapeno, popcorn shrimp tempura and miso caramelised Glacier 51 toothfish are some of the go-to dishes. A robatayaki grill turns out perfectly grilled yakitori, while sushi bar chefs create stunning, made-to-order morsels. Featuring a mid-century palate, Japanese grass cloths, handmade tiles, exposed brick walls and pared-back furnishings, Saké Flinders Lane has the perfect personality for this gastronomic strip. Venture downstairs for cocktails, DJ tunes, or a quiet soiree in the Zen courtyard garden.

121 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 1300 670 910 sakerestaurant.com.au

re we Love To e h W

HEAVENLY BUNS TIM HO WAN Its name means ‘add good luck’ in Cantonese, and Tim Ho Wan has certainly had its share. Starting out as a hole-in-the-wall in Hong Kong, it was awarded a Michelin star within a year of opening in 2009, and went on to spawn 20 outlets in nine countries – it’s a dim sum fairy tale. But luck isn’t the only ingredient. The world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant earned its stripes with a tiny, yet tasty, menu of share plates using high-quality ingredients, with every dish made to order. Wrap your lips around vermicelli rice paper rolls, wasabi salad prawn dumplings, pan-fried turnip cake and the legendary baked pork buns that made this place a star. Walk ins only.

206 Bourke Street, Melbourne timhowan.com.au

Dining out in Melbourne is always a treat, with tempting delicacies at every turn WHAT’S YOUR BEEF?

Just minutes from South Melbourne market, Meatworks is heaven for the carnivores among us. This former 1930s garage has been transformed into a steam punk paradise, where chef Travis Watson combines Eastern and Western flavours to great effect. Chow down on a Ploughman’s Breakfast with smoked sausage, oven-roasted tomatoes, eggs your way and house-made relish, or keep it light with a smoked salmon omelette or poached fruit porridge. Later in the day, enjoy a torn pork burger or Vietnamese baguette with smoked brisket and pickled Asian herbs and vegetables, or bring a crew and splash out on the signature smoked meat platter. Your vegetarian and pescatarian friends have been catered for too, with spicy silken tofu and smoked salmon and pomegranate salad also among the offerings. Other treats include a simple yet tempting wine list, and house-made lemonade and cola on tap. Tuck in!

28-30 Ross Street, South Melbourne (03) 9041 5727 meatworksco.com

44 | destinations Victoria

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND MANVEEN MAAN / IMAGES: SUPPLIED

MEATWORKS CO

Food & Wine | Melbourne

CULT CROISSANTS LUNE Lune Croissanterie has come a long way from its humble roots as a hole-in-the-wall bakery in Elwood, where queues began forming at 4.30am. Run by former aerospace engineer Kate Reid and her brother Cam, the pastry powerhouse moved to a larger venue in Fitzroy in late 2015, which allowed them to double their output, although each creation is still meticulously handcrafted. Choose from traditional croissants, pain au chocolat, or the exquisite Kouign Amann, a French pastry from the Bretagne region that is laminated with sugar and baked until caramelised. Lune is also the home of the cruffin (a croissant/muffin hybrid), and offers savoury options and a “Lune Lab” experience which allows you insider access to the pastry kitchen, and the first taste of experimental pastries straight from the oven. Tres bon!

119 Rose Street, Fitzroy (03) 9529 5770 lunecroissanterie.com

ALL THAT JAZZ BIRD’S BASEMENT A tribute to the late, great Charlie “Bird” Parker, Bird’s Basement is a spinoff of New York’s landmark Birdland jazz club, where Parker was a resident. It has been more than a decade in the making, finally opening its doors in early 2016, and has already attracted world-class performers, both homegrown and international. The intimate space is acoustically designed, accomodating 200 music lovers for two shows a night, with tables curving around a long stage that can accommodate up to 18 musicians.

The menu is modern Italian courtesy of Luigi Buono (formerly of Bistro Bakini) Think rich pasta and risotto, grass-fed steaks and oven-roasted barramundi, rounded out with crisp salads and a simple yet stellar dolci menu. Enjoy it all with local wines or classic cocktails and some of the smoothest grooves around.

11 Singers Lane, Melbourne birdsbasement.com

NIGHTCAP MAEVE FOX Nestled in the nightlife hub of Richmond, Maeve Fox is a classy broad with an elegant interior and an extensive cocktail list, along with friendly bartenders who know their stuff. Order a tried and true classic or let them whip up something special based on your tastes. Not just for cocktail connoisseurs, Maeve is also popular with wine lovers, beer drinkers, sports fans and everyone in between – cosy up with your date in one of the hidden booths, catch up with friends on the balcony, or watch the big game in the main bar.

The night is young, and the choice is yours.

472 Church Street, Cremorne (03) 9427 1233 maevefox.com.au

destinations Victoria | 45

Melbourne | Food & Wine

SPOILED FOR CHOICE TETSUJIN With three styles of Japanese dining together under one roof, Tetsujin brings you an authentic taste of Tokyo, right through to the chorus of “irrashaimase!” that rings out when you enter the room. Located on the fourth floor of Emporium Melbourne, choose from the sleek, white-tiled surrounds of the sushi train, or grab a seat next door where you can enjoy Izakayastyle dining with a selection of share plates, or watch as tender wagyu is barbecued to perfection at your table (you can have a go too if you’re feeling game!)

There’s an extensive drinks list including beer, wine, sake, shochu (distilled from grains and vegetables) and umeshu (plum wine), as well as killer cocktails and mocktails, from the fiery Mt Fuji Fury (whisky, grapefruit and orange) to the innocent Hello Kitty (Japanese soda, bubblegum and vanilla ice cream).

Kanpai!

Level 4, Emporium Melbourne 295 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne (03) 9663 9993 tetsujin.com.au

CAFE KINGS HAMMER & TONG

Uniquely located Arbory Bar & Eatery is the epitome of Melbourne cool. Right next to Platform 13 of Flinders Street Station, it spans the length of the station, boasting uninterrupted views along the Yarra. Tuck into delicious grub under the canopy of iconic plane trees, or kick back and enjoy their signature Espresso Martini or Aperol Spritz, both available on tap. On the menu, the divine katafi-wrapped king prawns with green harissa is highly recommended, along with the ever-popular double cheeseburger.

The health-conscious crowd can dig into a superb seared tuna salad with a tangy side salad of avocado, radish and apple. But if a drink with a view is all you’re after, indulge in a refreshing watermelon margarita (complete with jalapeno pepper on top!) and soak up those Melbourne vibes at this riverside haven.

Billed as one of Melbourne’s best brunch spots, Hammer & Tong serves up delicious fare with a modern twist. Now open for all-day dining, the interiors are typically hipster with stylish, cobbled-together spaces and a bustling atmosphere. The breakfast menu showcases the usual suspects, with gastronomic injections like black rice granola, shortcake crumble, Dashi braised ham hock and salmon roe. Their famous soft shell crab burger served in a puffy brioche bun is on the must-order list, along with the ingenious breakfast ramen – a bowl of noodles, bacon, mushrooms and spring onions in perfectly spiced broth. Sweet and sour lamb ribs (with green papaya salad) bring a distinctive Asian feel to the menu, while the baby snapper ceviche draws inspiration from its South American roots. Washed down with a cup of Dukes coffee, I daresay it’s the best brunch I’ve had.

Flinders Street Station, 1 Flinders Walk, Melbourne (03) 8648 7644 arbory.com.au

Rear, 412 Brunswick St, Fitzroy (03) 9041 6033 hammerandtong.com.au

AL FRESCO GEM ARBORY BAR & EATERY

46 | destinations Victoria

MELBOURNE’S BIGGEST BAVARIAN BIER HALL munichbrauhaus.com 45 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf

Award-winning

contemporary japanese cuisine HAMER HALL ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE, 100 ST KILDA RD

MELBOURNE CBD 121 FLINDERS LANE

sakerestaurant.com.au

New York style steakhouse in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD 7 Alfred Place, Melbourne

cutbarandgrill.com

EAT & DRINK Like an Italian

7 Alfred Place, Melbourne

•

fratellifresh.com.au

Pendant from the Kaleidoscope range

The

National Collection Opal Since the 1880s, Australia’s extraordinary and beautiful gemstone, the opal, has been mined in the outback.

Today, Australia produces most of the world’s gem quality opal

V

isit the heart of both Sydney and Melbourne, where you can experience a little of what it is like to be in an underground opal mine.

At The National Opal Collection you will see real opal in the walls of simulated opal mines.

You can also see how a piece of rough is transformed into a magnificent gem opal. In the adjoining showrooms is a treasure trove of exquisite opal jewellery available for purchase.

Nature has captured all the colours of the spectrum in opal, displaying them in an infinite variety of shades, patterns and 48 | destinations Victoria

brilliance. No other gemstone can display such wonderful personality and each stone exudes its own character, allowing the wearer to own a truly unique piece of nature.

Opal formed around 20-50 million years ago from the silica-rich sands of an ancient sea bed, which is now the outback deserts of Australia.

On rare occasions, opalised fossils have been found where silica replaces a shell or bone from the dinosaur age, proving an incredible link between the two. Australia is the only place in the world where opalised animal fossils can be found. At The National Opal Collection you can see beautifully preserved opalised fossils of ancient fauna and flora, including ‘Nessie’, a three metre long strange monster from the deep formed 100 million years ago. Free tours of the museum include a presentation in the auditorium and opal cutting demonstrations.

A National Opals Promotion

Your visit to The National Opal Collection is a great opportunity to purchase an opal or opal jewellery tax free from a company involved in every step of the opal production chain, from mining and cutting through to design and creation of magnificent opal jewellery pieces.

There are four main types of natural solid opal from Australia:

‘Your visit to the National Opal Collection is a

great opportunity to purchase an opal or opal jewellery

tax free’

BLACK OPAL Black Opal is the most valuable type, coming mainly from Lightning Ridge New South Wales.

High quality stones are very rare and easily distinguished by the blackness of the background ‘body tone’ or body colour.

LIGHT OPAL Light Opal is mostly mined at Coober Pedy and Mintabie in South Australia, although the first deposits were at White Cliffs New South Wales. Stones range from transparent to nearly opaque, and they have a light or white body tone or background hue.

Black Opal Ring

CRYSTAL OPAL Crystal Opal includes light or black opal, which is transparent or very translucent. Colour can be seen from deep within the opal.

BOULDER OPAL Boulder Opal occurs naturally in hard rock, mined predominantly in Queensland. It is easily identified because, when cut, the host rock (a brown ironstone) is left on the back of the opal.

Black Opal Ring with Tsavorites

WHERE MELBOURNE The National Opal Collection 119 Swanston Street, Melbourne Phone: (+61 3) 9662 3524 Fax: (+61 3) 9654 9213 Email: enquiries@nationalopal.com SYDNEY The National Opal Collection 60 Pitt Street, Sydney Phone: (+61 2) 9247 6344 Fax: (+61 2) 9247 6355 Email: info@nationalopal.com

Pendant from the Kaleidoscope range Mintabie opal with purple sapphires

destinations Victoria | 49

Melbourne | Attractions

Melbourne Zoo

Queen Victoria Market

Eureka Skydeck

TOP ATTRACTIONS There’s so much to see and do in Melbourne, it’s simply a matter of time and taste. Here are some of the city’s most visited attractions to get you started

QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET Known affectionately as the ‘Queen Vic’, this market has been the heart and soul of Melbourne for more than a century. Offering everything from fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood to clothing, souvenirs and jewellery, you’re sure to find a bargain. Do as the locals do and visit early in the day to get your pick of the produce. Treat yourself to a gourmet delicacy from the historic Deli Hall, join a behind-the-scenes tour or try your hand at a cooking class. qvm.com.au MELBOURNE STAR OBSERVATION WHEEL Reach for the sky with a ride on the Melbourne Star.

The fully-enclosed observation wheel takes visitors on a 30-minute ride offering extraordinary views spanning up to 40 kilometres, including the city, Port Phillip Bay and as far away as Mount Macedon and the Dandenong Ranges.

50 | destinations Victoria

Audio commentary and information panels provide facts on Melbourne’s history, culture and eccentricities. melbournestar.com EUREKA SKYDECK 88 Get a bird’s eye view of Melbourne from Eureka Skydeck 88, the highest public viewing platform in the southern hemisphere. Ride one of the fastest lifts in the world to arrive at the Skydeck, where you’re rewarded with expansive views of Melbourne. Test your mettle on The Edge – a glass cube suspended almost 300 metres above the ground. The truly fearless can step out onto The Terrace and feel the elements from on high. Use the interactive Serendipity Table to explore Melbourne’s history, and visit the Edge Shop for souvenirs and tickets. eurekaskydeck.com.au SEA LIFE MELBOURNE AQUARIUM Home to more than 10,000 animals, including one of the world’s largest saltwater crocodiles, Melbourne Aquarium is made up of 12 wonderful underwater worlds. The Bay of Rays hosts the world’s only display of elephant sharks, while the Coral Caves boast extraordinary marine animals from the depths of the ocean. If you’re feeling brave you can swim with great white sharks in the Mermaid Garden, or keep it low key and check out the collection of seahorses and seadragons at Seahorse Pier. For a truly memorable experience, suit up in Antarctic snow gear and meet the King and Gentoo penguins and their keepers. melbourneaquarium.com.au

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: VISIONS OF VICTORIA

MELBOURNE ZOO Just four kilometres from the city centre, Melbourne Zoo lets you visit other worlds, with more than 300 species of animals in residence, each in their natural habitat. See majestic Asian elephants at play, watch orangutans swing through the trees and visit the Gorilla Rainforest. Head down the bush track to see unique Australian wildlife or go underwater at Wild Sea, where you can watch penguins and seals at play. Keeper talks give you a chance to learn more about the zoo’s residents, or book a Wild Encounter to get up close and personal with your favourite animal. zoo.org.au/melbourne

Arts | Melbourne

Arts Centre

NATIONAL GALLERY OF VICTORIA Australia’s oldest public art gallery, the National Gallery of Victoria contains one of the most impressive collections in the southern hemisphere. NGV International on St Kilda Road, Melbourne, is home to more than 70,000 works originating from Europe, Asia, Oceania and the Americas, while Federation Square’s NGV Australia – better known as The Ian Potter Centre – is the world’s first major gallery dedicated exclusively to Australian art, from the Colonial period and the Heidelberg School through to contemporary, with a suite of galleries dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. ngv.vic.gov.au THE AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART (ACCA) Melbourne’s leading contemporary art gallery, ACCA showcases significant works by living artists, with a focus on commissioning new work by local and international artists as opposed to displaying historic pieces. A program of free services, including tours, talks and workshops, accompanies each exhibition. accaonline.org.au AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR THE MOVING IMAGE (ACMI) Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of film, television, video games and digital culture through a range of free exhibitions showcasing the best in Australian and international cinema. Screen Worlds is a permanent, interactive and immersive exhibition that illustrates how the moving image has evolved, while ACMI Cinema highlights include film festivals and First Look screenings. acmi.net.au KOORIE HERITAGE TRUST Also in Federation Square, The Koorie Heritage Trust is home to the only public collection in Victoria dedicated solely to Koorie art and culture. It comprises artefacts, pictures and photographs as well as an oral history program

ACMI

Public Art

and reference library, plus cross cultural awareness training and tours and a rotating program of exhibitions. koorieheritagetrust.com PUBLIC ART Art emerges in surprising places in Melbourne’s streets and laneways, from sculptures to street art. Experience Proximities, a unique sound installation on the William Barak Bridge over the Yarra with recordings of 53 voices from Commonwealth nations including those of the Wurundjeri people. The City of Melbourne’s Laneway Commission sees local and international artists create temporary works including sculptures, light installations and interactive soundscapes in some of the city’s hidden spaces. Walk to Art takes small groups to street art, artist-run spaces and galleries in Melbourne’s buildings and laneways (walktoart.com.au), while Melbourne Street Art Tours will introduce you to the city’s underground treasures, from spray painting to stencil art and paste-ups on a three-hour ramble with a working artist (melbournestreettours.com). The 17-kilometre Coastal Art Trail around Port Phillip Bay and the 40-kilometre Heidelberg School Artists Trail in Melbourne’s north-east can be tackled on your own as a self-paced walking tour.

PERFORMING ARTS The tall spire towering over the Yarra marks the beating heart of Melbourne’s arts precinct. In and around the iconic Arts Centre building you will discover great opera, dance and orchestral performances (artscentremelbourne.com.au).

Experience the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at majestic Hamer Hall (mso.com.au), catch an innovative Melbourne Theatre Company production (mtc.com.au), witness classical and contemporary works by the Melbourne Ballet Company (melbourneballetcompany.com.au), or enjoy a memorable performance courtesy of Opera Australia (opera.org.au).

In nearby Sturt Street, Southbank, the Melbourne Recital Centre presents more than 450 concerts each year, including classical, jazz, cabaret and world music, while The Malthouse is a vibrant performing arts venue in an old brewery, staging contemporary theatre and dance. DV

destinations Victoria | 51

Arts Centre Melbourne is both a deďŹ ning cultural landmark and Australia’s largest performing arts centre. Discover it for yourself

2 52| destinations | destinationsVictoria Victoria

An Arts Centre Melbourne Promotion

A

Hamer Hall

t the centre of Melbourne’s cultural precinct sits Arts Centre Melbourne.

As Australia’s largest performing arts venue, Arts Centre Melbourne is a vibrant meeting place for the performing arts, artisan markets, restaurants, cafes and Australia’s largest performing arts collection. The State Theatre has one of the world’s largest stages, which hosts performances by Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet, along with the Playhouse and the Fairfax Studio. On the banks of the Yarra River is Melbourne’s premier concert venue, Hamer Hall, home to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and a variety of musical performances.

Across the road in the Kings Domain Garden is the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, a popular outdoor venue in summer.

Arts Centre Melbourne is also the proud custodian of one of the most significant public collections of Australian visual art outside the major state art galleries, including paintings by Arthur Boyd, John Olsen and Roger Kemp.

EXHIBITIONS, TOURS & MARKETS A range of free exhibitions are on offer throughout the year. From 11 February until 26 September, performance art from across Southeast Asia will be on display in the free exhibition, Political Acts: Pioneers of Performance Art in Southeast Asia.

Guided tours of Arts Centre Melbourne depart at 11am daily and take visitors through vast theatres extending five floors underground to uncover the fascinating story of this entertainment precinct, and from 10am – 4pm on Sundays, local artisans fill Arts Centre Melbourne’s lawn to showcase unique, locally-produced

Guided Tours

The Barre handmade goods ranging from arts and crafts to freshly made delicacies.

EAT & DRINK The Barre has a vibrant atmosphere with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Drop in for a pre-show sparkling with a share plate, a meal with a fine wine or a late-night drink to discuss the show you’ve just seen.

Open Monday to Saturday, 3pm until late.

Nestled in the heart of Arts Centre Melbourne, Café Vic offers a delicious cake and coffee selection and seated dining for lunch and dinner, while Cento, on the Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt, is ideal for on-the-go coffee, food and drinks or kicking back and relaxing with a seat in the sunshine.

Located within Hamer Hall overlooking the Yarra you’ll find Fatto, with its breathtaking city views and an all-day Italian menu, open from 12pm daily. Teatro is a pizzeria and tapas restaurant, specialising in European cuisine with an emphasis on local Australian produce, and at Sake Restaurant & Bar, indulge in mouthwatering dishes that combine the very best of modern and classic Japanese, with a nod to local Melbourne flavours.

Sunday Market

Need to know Book tickets at artscentremelbourne.com.au, call 1300 182 183, or visit the Theatres Building Box office, located under the Spire on Level 5, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.

SPECIAL OFFER: tixatsix Line up at the Theatres Building Box office at 6pm every night for your shot at one of 20 tickets to a range of performances on sale for just $30.

Limit of two per person per night.

For a magnificent performing arts experience, visit Arts Centre Melbourne. destinations Victoria | 53

Past lives Delve into Melbourne’s past with a visit to one of these fascinating attractions, from colonial cottages to stately homes and spooky gaol cells

IMMIGRATION MUSEUM Explore Melbourne’s history through stories of migrants from across the world at the Immigration Museum. From the reasons for making the journey, to the moment of arrival in a new country and the impact on indigenous communities – these stories are sometimes sad, sometimes funny, but always engaging, and the result is a thought-provoking and moving experience. Take a fresh look at what it means to be Australian. museumvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum

54 | destinations Victoria

OLD MELBOURNE GAOL Built in the 1800s to house Victoria’s rapidly growing criminal population, the multi award winning Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings. Step inside this imposing bluestone institution, the site of over 130 hangings, and enter a world where some of Australia’s most infamous criminals were held, including bushranger Ned Kelly and notorious gangster Squizzy Taylor. View the cells where the prisoners were held, and get yourself arrested by the Charge Sergeant in the Police Watch House. Brave souls can see the Gaol by candlelight on a spooky night tour. oldmelbournegaol.com.au COMO HOUSE Como House in South Yarra is a fine example of historic Italianate architecture with award-winning gardens that host festivals and events throughout the year. The house offers an insight into upper-class life during the nineteenth century while the gardens are perfect for picnics and leisurely wanderings.

Those with a penchant for the paranormal can join ghost tours on selected dates. comohouse.com.au

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM

COOKS’ COTTAGE Constructed in 1755 in North Yorkshire, England, this two-storey stone cottage was the original home of Captain James Cook, who went on to chart the east coast of Australia. The cottage was deconstructed, shipped to Melbourne and painstakingly reconstructed brick by brick to celebrate 100 years of British settlement in 1934.

Get an insight into the explorer’s early life and a taste of eighteenth century England as you wander through this double-storey residence and its traditional cottage garden. cookscottage.com.au

Historic Attractions | Melbourne

VILLA ALBA MUSEUM An 1880 Italianate mansion adjacent to Kew’s Studley Park, Villa Alba is lavishly decorated with painted walls, a trompe l’oeil ceiling, and 40-foot panoramic murals of marine views of Sydney and Edinburgh in tribute to its first owners. Restoration of the house is ongoing and it will eventually be a resource centre for interior design and decoration. The garden is also being lovingly restored to its late Victorian form by a team of dedicated volunteers. villaalbamuseum.org MONTSALVAT Located on 12 acres of peacock-patronised gardens in Eltham, just 35 minutes from central Melbourne, Montsalvat is a self-supported creative hub, providing studios for working artists and hosting exhibitions and performances.

Explore the unique grounds and buildings of Australia’s oldest artists’ colony, dine on French provincial fare at the onsite restaurant, or nurture your creativity with a class – from painting to building your own guitar. montsalvat.com.au

MELBOURNE TRAM MUSEUM Open to the public every second and fourth Saturday of each month, the Melbourne Tram Museum preserves and shares the rich tramway history of Melbourne, with something for all ages. The museum houses 21 fully-restored trams including, a toast-rack bodied V-class from 1906, one of the first electric trams in Melbourne, including several versions of the iconic Melbourne W-class trams, and the prototype of the Z-class which marked the steady modernisation of the fleet when it was introduced in 1975. A large range of tramway artefacts and ephemera are also on display. hawthorntramdepot.org.au WALKING TOURS Melbourne’s Golden Mile Heritage Walk covers the city’s history from 1835 to 1901. Start at the Immigration Museum, and follow the four-kilometre trail marked with 33 brass discs on the pavement.

Download Museum Victoria’s free app to tackle Melbourne’s Golden Mile on your own, or join the Hidden Secrets Tour, which departs daily from the Visitor Centre at Federation Square. hiddensecretstours.com

destinations Victoria | 55

Image: A. Vittorio

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Punting on the Lake

Perennial Border and Gardens House

Image: A. Vittorio

56 | destinations Victoria

Guilfoyle’s Volcano

Ornamental Lake

A Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Promotion

At Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria you’ll discover landscapes and living plant collections renowned for their visual beauty and heritage, their scientific and horticultural interest

O

nly a short stroll from the CBD, the major hotels, entertainment and sporting precincts, is Melbourne Gardens – our first botanic garden.

DISCOVER MELBOURNE GARDENS THIS SUMMER Founded south of the Yarra River in 1846, Melbourne Gardens is today a verdant inner-city oasis of majestic trees, intricate garden beds, lakes and lawns.

It is considered one of the finest botanic gardens in the world, with displays of almost 50,000 individual plants representing 8,500 different species in 30 living plant collections from every part of the globe.

In the heat of summer, Melbourne Gardens is where people gather to cool off, relax and celebrate.

Since it was founded 170 years ago on a site considered by some at the time as too remote from the city, Melbourne Gardens has grown into a refreshing green space in the centre of Melbourne.

It’s a place of biodiversity and beauty. A place where giant, long-lived trees cast shade over lush green lawns and where birds gather and punts drift across the water, showing visitors a different view of the Gardens.

It’s where families gather for picnics by day and children delight in nature in the Children’s Garden. And on summer evenings, it’s where friends come together at twilight to enjoy their favourite films under the night sky, revel in the antics of Shakespearean characters in the annual open-air theatre, or gaze at the stars through heritage telescopes.

There is much to do at Melbourne Gardens this summer.

In the heat of summer, Melbourne Gardens is where people gather to cool off, relax and celebrate.

VISIT CRANBOURNE GARDENS A 45-minute drive down the Monash Freeway is Cranbourne Gardens with the stunning Australian Garden at its heart. Leaving behind the inner city, you can take a journey through Australia’s vast and varied landscapes from the dramatic dry red centre to the inland plains and hills of the coastal regions at our award-winning contemporary landscaped garden. Discover more than 170,000 native plants celebrating our unique Australian flora.

Beyond the boundary of the Australian Garden is the bushland, with 370 species of native plants, 20 native

mammal species, and 11 amphibian species. Here you can ‘go bush’ and discover flora and fauna along a network of walking tracks that pass through grassy woodlands, heathlands and past the wetlands. Encounter the elusive and endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot or see a Koala up in the canopy of a Coast Manna Gum. Visit our botanic gardens this summer and discover the extraordinary contrasts of one continent in two gardens: the ochre landscapes of inland Australia at the Australian Garden, and the lush greens of the Melbourne Gardens.

Image: J. Molinski

Observatory Buildings Image: A. Vittorio

Oak Lawn

Need to know Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne Gardens Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne (03) 9252 2300

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Cranbourne Gardens Corner of Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive Cranbourne (off the South Gippsland Highway) Melway map 133, Ref. K10 (03) 5990 2200 rbg.vic.gov.au

destinations Victoria | 57

Our

Editor’s picks THE NEW CHADSTONE

Chadstone’s new development was recently unveiled and now boasts more than 500 stores, including Australia’s most significant collection of luxury brands, under an impressive 2700-tile glass roof. Unbeatable dining and lifestyle options include a new Food Atrium, an alfresco Dining Laneway, and a Dining Terrace. The new Chadstone is also home to the southern hemisphere’s first Lego Discover Centre. A free shuttle departs daily from Federation Square. chadstone.com.au

COMPLETE INDULGENCE

Southgate, Melbourne’s riverside restaurant and shopping precinct, boasts arguably the most picturesque views in the city, overlooking heritagelisted Flinders Street Station, the Yarra River, and the city skyline. It’s the perfect place for a cocktail, dinner or spot of shopping in the heart of the city.

Open year round, 7 days a week southgatemelbourne.com.au

Located in Melbourne’s bustling CBD at the ‘Paris End’ of Collins Street, Collins Place is renowned for combining classic style with contemporary culture. If you are looking for local and international fashion, exquisite giftware, quality entertainment and mouth-watering cuisine, you’ll find it at Collins Place. Most stores are open seven days a week, so there’s ample time for a relaxed, friendly shopping experience we’re sure you’ll enjoy. Whether it’s fine dining, theatre, shopping or just a good pampering, Collins Place offers indulgence for everyone. collinsplace.com.au

INTO THE DEEP

Sydney Road Brunswick is a must see and must do for any visitor to Melbourne. This unique melting pot of cultures from all four corners of the globe offers something for everyone, from Middle Eastern, European, Asian, and Indian to modern Australian, in a colourful mosaic of restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques.

A certified diving watch that meets the rigorous NIHS 92-11 Swiss watchmaking standards, I.N.O.X. Professional Diver considerably exceeds the required criteria. It is a more assertive, more resolute model.

Authentic with no unnecessary frills. It withstands a total of 130 tests specifically developed to guarantee resistance and functionality. These tests confirm I.N.O.X.’s flawless solidity and its ability to meet the vital needs of professional divers. I.N.O.X. Professional Diver comes in timeless black, indigo blue, Victorinox red and bright yellow.

sydneyroad.com.au

victorinox.com

58 | destinations Victoria

WHAT’S ON in Melbourne

16

January 7 MELBOURNE LATIN SUMMER FESTIVAL melbournelatinsummerfestival.com January 15 SO FRENCHY SO CHIC sofrenchysochic.com.au January 15-February 5 MIDSUMMA FESTIVAL midsumma.org.au January 16-29 AUSTRALIAN OPEN event.ausopen.com January 28 ST JEROME’S LANEWAY FESTIVAL lanewayfestival.com January 28 CHINESE NEW YEAR

60 | destinations Victoria

february

march

10 12 February 4-26 SUSTAINABLE LIVING FESTIVAL slf.org.au

March 3-5 AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW airshow.com.au March 5-19 BRUNSWICK MUSIC FESTIVAL/ SYDNEY ROAD STREET PARTY brunswickmusicfestival.com.au March 10-13 MOOMBA FESTIVAL thatsmelbourne.com.au/Moomba

February 12 ST KILDA FESTIVAL stkildafestival.com.au

March 1-19 VIRGIN AUSTRALIA MELBOURNE FASHION FESTIVAL vamff.com.au

February 18 WHITE NIGHT MELBOURNE (7PM TO 7AM) whitenightmelbourne.com.au

March 23-26 FORMULA 1 AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX grandprix.com.au

February 25-26 LONSDALE STREET GREEK FESTIVAL greekcentre.com.au/lonsdalestfestival

March 29-April 2 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN SHOW melbflowershow.com.au

IMAGES: Nils Versemann, Shutterstock.com

january

april

31 March 29-April 23 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL comedyfestival.com.au March 31-April 9 MELBOURNE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL melbournefoodandwine.com.au April 25 ANZAC DAY

may

12 May 5-7 DOG LOVERS SHOW dogloversshow.com.au/melbourne May 12-21 GOOD BEER WEEK goodbeerweek.com.au May 30 GROOVIN THE MOO (Bendigo) gtm.net.au

june/july

2 June 10-11 RUTHERGLEN WINERY WALKABOUT winerywalkabout.com.au June 2-11 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL melbournejazz.com July 21-30 GERTRUDE STREET PROJECTION FESTIVAL gspf.com.au July 29-30 OPEN HOUSE MELBOURNE openhousemelbourne.org

destinations Victoria | 61

A Eureka Skydeck Promotion

EUREKA EUREKA SKYDECK SKYDECK 88 88 When the brochures advertising Eureka Skydeck promise the view from 88 floors up is ‘like nothing you’ve ever experienced’, they’re quite right

T

hat is unless you are a high-rise window cleaner! There is no other viewing deck in the Southern Hemisphere this high, and none with so many ways to experience the view.

Located beside the Yarra River in Southbank, Eureka Skydeck is one of Melbourne’s most spectacular tourist destinations. The awe-inspiring views from the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere will change the way people look at Melbourne.

It was opened in 2007, and has hosted millions of visitors from around the globe, keen to take in the best view of Melbourne.

Skydeck’s first ‘wow’ moment, surprisingly, happens with your feet planted firmly at ground level.

Discover the six-metre multi-user

62 | destinations Victoria

interactive ‘Serendipity Table’.

With immersive, gesture-sensitive technology, the table gives guests an overview of Melbourne highlighting many of its fantastic landmarks, cultural precincts and key attractions.

The Serendipity Table allows people to watch the ebb and flow of the city with hot air balloons floating overhead, cars moving about the city streets and Eureka Tower swaying with the wind.

There’s also a short documentary on the making of Eureka, which answers questions on how the extraordinarily tall building is engineered to endure extreme winds and lightning strikes.

But the journey to the top is the moment you hear most about from visitors to Skydeck. Eighty-eight floors in 38 seconds? You bet!

The vertical blast is accompanied by a whooshing jet sound over the in-elevator audio, and an explanation of what is happening as you fly up the insides of Melbourne’s tallest

building. It is recommended you pop your ears!

Stepping out of the elevator, you are granted a view of Melbourne that we are confident will take your breath away. The opening vista is of Port Phillip Bay straight ahead with Station Pier, where the Spirit of Tasmania docks, clearly visible across the heads.

To the left, note the familiar shape of Albert Park Lake, with its palm-fringed Grand Prix track snaking around in challenging turns and chicanes as well as the powering straight.

There are 30 viewfinders positioned around Eureka Skydeck helping guests discover places of interest across the city from the MCG to the Westgate Bridge to the Dandenong Ranges.

LED information displays projected across the floor point to key landmarks including The Royal Botanic Gardens, Flinders Street Station and the Shrine of Remembrance.

Skydeck Skydeck AD_p45.indd AD_p45.indd 45 45

A xxxxxx Promotion

Skydeck 88 is the only observation deck in the world that can thrill you with ‘The Edge’ – a glass cube that extends three metres out from the building with you in it, marvelling at the three-and-a-half-centimetre glass that stands between you and the ground far, far below! To add to the experience, an audio recording of cracking glass can be heard as it begins to tremble and shake, unlikely to soothe the nerves of visitors afraid of heights! Buy tickets for The Edge from the EdgeShop.

Patrons can get their official photo taken while out on the Edge.

All pictures are available for purchase

27/02/12 27/02/12 10:45 10:45 AM AM

and can be sent via MMS or email, ready for upload to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Eureka Skydeck’s Outdoor Terrace, which is enclosed by a wire grid, exposes guests to the outside elements 88 levels up.

The Terrace is right next to The Edge, so family and friends can view those inside.

Those wanting to enjoy a more sedate cup of coffee with the best view in the city can pick up a takeaway latte, or other treats and cold drinks, at the small cafe also located on Level 88. Back on the ground, Skydeck Shop has plenty of great souvenirs to purchase.

With an online booking system, Eureka Skydeck visitors can select their preferred ticket type and have their tickets emailed straight to their inbox for a more timely and convenient experience.

Visit eurekaskydeck.com.au/ buy-tickets for details.

Need to know LOCATION Eureka Skydeck 88, Riverside Quay, Southbank

OPENING TIMES Open daily, 10am to 10pm Last entry 9.30pm

WEBSITE eurekaskydeck.com.au

SOCIAL MEDIA

@eureka_skydeck @eurekaskydeck

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Eureka Tower; family enjoying The Edge experience; night time view from the Skydeck; Melbourne Park view.

destinations Victoria | 63

Melbourne | Sport

Game The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is the epicentre of Australian sport, and a must-see for all sports fans visiting Melbourne. Over the years it has played host to the ICC Cricket World Cup, the International Champions Cup and the Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final.

Explore the inner sanctum of the 100,000-seat stadium on an MCG Tour. Walk in the steps of sporting legends, with access to player change rooms, member-only areas, and the hallowed turf itself. mcg.org.au

The National Sports Museum Discover more than 3500 objects in the National Sports Museum including world-class galleries and interactive experiences for the whole family.

More than just a museum, it captures the spirit of Australian sporting life, and is home to the Olympic Museum, Sport Australia Hall of Fame, Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, Australian Football Exhibition and The Champions: Thoroughbred Racing Gallery, plus temporary exhibitions addressing the sporting issues of the day. nsm.org.au

Rod Laver Arena A favourite venue for tennis fans worldwide, Rod Laver Arena hosts the Australian Open in the sweltering heat of January each year. It has also served as a stage for some of the biggest acts in the world, including Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Metallica, The Beach Boys, U2, Robbie Williams and Pavarotti. Tennis fans will love the unique behind-the-scenes tours run daily by experienced Tennis World tour guides. rodlaverarena.com.au

Hisense Arena Another world-class multi-purpose venue, Hisense Arena gets its share of major events 64 | destinations Victoria

such as cycling, netball, basketball and even the odd boxing tournament. It’s also an alternative venue for the Australian Open, extending the ever-growing crowd capacity. East of Hisense Arena is the National Tennis Centre, an elite training centre which is also open for public use. hisensearena.com.au

AAMI Park Located between the Yarra River and the MCG, AAMI Park’s distinctive Bioframe design and geodesic dome roof incorporates seating for up to 30,000 fans. The ground is home to A-League’s Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City, National Rugby League’s Melbourne Storm and Melbourne Super Rugby team, the Melbourne Rebels. Buy tickets in advance or at the door. aamipark.com.au

Spring Racing Carnival Australia’s premier thoroughbred horseracing event and the richest two-mile handicap in the world, the Melbourne Cup is “the race that stops a nation”. Taking place on the first Tuesday of November, it is one of many highlights of the Spring Racing Carnival which takes place over October and November, giving punters and fashionistas plenty of opportunity for a punt or a frolic. racing.com/spring

Grand Prix For four days in March the world’s top racing teams descend on Melbourne for a motor racing showdown. The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is the first event of the season and draws more than 400,000 fans to the Albert Park course, with millions more watching worldwide on TV. Get your motor running and join the action trackside. grandprix.com.au

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / images: Shutterstock.COM

MCG & Tour

n

Kids | Melbourne

FOR THE KIDS Luna Park Ideally located next to St Kilda Beach, Luna Park is a galaxy of amusements and sensations for the young and the young at heart. Get your thrills on the dodgem cars, Twin Dragon, the Coney Island Top Drop or the gruesome ghost train, and don’t miss the park’s oldest attraction – Scenic Railway Rollercoaster – for heart-stopping dips and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. Soak up the intoxicating carnival atmosphere, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and test your skills on the carnival games. lunapark.com.au

Collingwood Children’s Farm City kids can get a taste of farm life at this idyllic haven in inner-city Melbourne, milking cows, feeding chooks and bottle feeding baby lambs while you relax with a coffee at the onsite cafe.

The first Sunday of every month is Family Day, with pony and tractor rides and an affordable barbecue lunch on offer. On the second Saturday each month, stock up on fresh produce at the farmer’s market. farm.org.au

Royal Botanic Gardens A magnificent green oasis not far from the CBD, these gardens are perfect for family picnics. Get your hands dirty in the Children’s Garden, join an Aboriginal Heritage Walk or a tour of the Melbourne Observatory, or join the locals for a walk or run around the iconic Tan Track. rbg.vic.gov.au

SEALIFE Melbourne Aquarium Located under King Street Bridge on the banks of the Yarra River, this underwater kingdom is home to more than 10,000 aquatic animals. Visit magical worlds including Croc Lair, Bay of Rays, Penguin Playground and Ocean Discovery, or join the keepers and learn more about your favourite creatures through daily feeds and talks. melbourneaquarium.com.au

MELBOURNE MUSEUM This PAGE: Luna Park.

OPPOSITE: Rod Laver Arena.

Discover Victoria’s Koorie history at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, see legendary racehorse Phar Lap in the flesh, get up close with creepy crawlies at Bugs Alive and don’t forget the Children’s Gallery, a fun and educational space

for one to eight year olds. Afterwards, settle in for an immersive cinema experience in front of the world’s third-largest screen at the IMAX Melbourne Musuem Theatre. museumvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum

Scienceworks Museum Learn about science and technology on a fun, interactive adventure at Scienceworks, or journey into outer space at the Melbourne Planetarium. museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks

Further afield Puffing Billy Hop aboard a century-old steam train in the picturesque Dandenong mountains and take in the lush landscape from Belgrave to Gembrook. puffingbilly.com.au The Enchanted Adventure Garden This award-winning natural fun park at Arthurs Seat on the Mornington Peninsula is home to an incredible tree-surfing obstacle course, along with hedge mazes, giant tube slides, themed gardens and an outdoor sculpture park. enchantedadventure.com.au Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory Explore the mouth-watering world of Pannys fine chocolates, including a chocolate village complete with working trains, a chocolate waterfall and a chocolate replica of Michelangelo’s David. phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au Sovereign Hill Set on an original gold mining site, Sovereign Hill brings to life with shops, hotels, a theatre, schools and factories just as they were 1850s Ballarat and ready for you to explore. Interact with costumed characters, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage or pan for gold – finders keepers! sovereignhill.com.au

destinations Victoria | 65

JUST FOR

FUN 66 | destinations Victoria

if it’s fun you’re after, Melbourne’s luna park is the place to be!

A Luna Park Promotion

l

una Park is Melbourne’s ultimate destination for fun. It is bursting at the seams with amazing rides, attractions, parties and activities to fill your weekends and school holidays with scream-worthy excitement that the whole family will love, whether you are nine or 99. On 13 December 1912, the Mr Moon entrance first opened his giant mouth to St Kilda and thousands of people flocked to Luna Park to be amazed and enthralled. Since then, Luna Park has gone on to delight generations of Melbourne families, many of whom return with their children and grandchildren to make new memories at one of Melbourne’s most unique attractions.

You too can soak up the spectacular carnival atmosphere that has entertained and amazed visitors for over 100 years as you explore 18 awesome rides and attractions. Choose from a range of rides that will satisfy every taste, from old favourites, like the beautiful 100-year-old Carousel and the spooky Ghost Train, to high-speed contemporary thrill rides like the Enterprise and Pharaoh’s Curse. There are also plenty of rides that the whole family can enjoy, such as Arabian Merry, Silly Serpent, Scenic Railway, Carousel and Red Baron. Attractions such as Street Legal Grand Prix-style Dodgems enable you to test your skills and compete against your friends and family. There is something for every kind of adventurer at Luna Park.

The Power Surge is the newest permanent thrill ride to hit Luna Park Melbourne and it’s sending shock waves through those brave enough to ride. Fly sky high on the spinning, twisting, stomach-churning thrill ride. Not for the faint-hearted, this ride gives you all the zooming, twirling

and screaming you could possibly want. Can you handle the power? There’s only one way to find out. While you’re there, don’t forget to jump on board the Great Scenic Railway and take a ride on a piece of history. Experience the magic of this world famous rollercoaster, the oldest continually operating wooden rollercoaster of its kind and winner of the prestigious American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) Coaster Classic Award. It also provides spectacular views over Port Phillip Bay and has to be at the top of every “must do” list of Melbourne attractions.

After you’ve been thrilled and entertained on the rides and feasted on delicious carnival food and drinks, put your skills to the test with our classic carnival games with prizes for everyone.

You haven’t been to Melbourne if you haven’t visited Luna Park!

Need to know Luna Park is open weekends, school holidays and public holidays from 11am.

18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda lunapark.com.au

destinations Victoria | 67

A Skydive Australia Promotion

A TANDEM SKYDIVE INSTRUCTOR

cody bekkerus is the operations Manager at skydive australia. he has been flinging himself out of planes for over a decade and still gets a rush every time I started skydiving in 2006. I did tandem and loved it, and thought it would be a great sport to get into with heaps of travel opportunities. Each country’s prerequisites for instructors differ, but I did mine in America and the bare minimum was 500 jumps and three years in the sport before you can take your instructor rating.

I don’t think there are too many people who aren’t a bit apprehensive about jumping out of a plane for the fi rst time. It’s a pretty unnatural thing for humans to do. The more jumps you do, the more you learn about every aspect of skydiving, and the more confidence you have in your ability and your equipment.

Most Drop zones are between 12,000 feet and 15,000 feet above sea level. The duration depends on the height you jump from, it can be anywhere between 10-65 seconds of freefall and around 5-7 minutes under the canopy. In my opinion the higher, the better. You always deploy the parachute at the same height so the higher you go, the more free fall you get.

The best part of my job is getting to jump out of airplanes for a living. I also get to meet a very diverse group of people from all walks of life. The biggest challenge is the weather. We have limits in what we can jump in and it can be difficult sitting on the ground waiting for it to change. Sometimes we have to reschedule the day and it’s tough to

68 | destinations Victoria

disappoint people, but we are concerned about safety first and foremost.

Most instructors just like to fly. Whether that’s with their bodies or their canopies – anything to get them up in the air. It’s like divers just want to be in the water, skydivers want to be in the air.

The perfect day for me would be sunny, warm, calm winds and no holds.

I think everyone should try skydiving at least once, or you don’t know what you’re missing.

Teaching new students how to skydive is very rewarding. I have also been lucky enough to do a few jumps into the MCG, but taking my, Mum, Dad, and sister for their first jump was probably my most memorable experience on the job.

To anyone thinking of giving skydiving a go, I say get out there and do it. I think everyone should try it at least once, or you don’t know what you’re missing.

Need to know To book your jump, call 1300 663 634 or visit skydive.com.au

A Dracula’s Cabaret Promotion

For lovers of off-beat experiences, for those travellers with a penchant for the eccentric and unusual, you can’t go past dracula’s cabaret

d

racula’s is an adrenalin spiked, underworld cabaret with real bite.

A vampire inspired dinner and show, that takes you on a wild journey of fleshy pop-rock, hi-camp costumes, slap-face comedy and seditious circus acts. The show combines steam punk retro with stunning futuristic stage effects, along with lashings of live music, fetish burlesque, and an all-out-can-eat song list of revamped rock classics.

Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurants are Australia’s longest running, most popular cabaret restaurants and have been Australian icons for over 35 years.

Dracula’s is a night of entertainment combining burlesque, contemporary music, comedy and quality dining, all in the one incredible venue. Located in Melbourne and on the Gold Coast, Dracula’s is a nighttime experience that can’t be missed.

From that first tentative step inside, you will be transported to an underworld of gothic splendor.

Ride the famous ghost train into the Theatre of the Vampyre. Explore the multi level castle and be captivated by the intense atmosphere. Animated creatures as well as original and rare horror collectables adorn the entire venue. Sample unique drinks in the cocktail bar and interact with the eccentric wait staff as you allow yourself to go deeper into the experience.

A quality three course dinner is followed by the main event, Dracula’s two-hour live production featuring some of Australia’s most talented performers. The productions change annually and continue to ‘wow’ audiences with the latest audio and visual special effects and a menu that is to die for! For over 35 years, multi award wining Dracula’s has wined, dined and horrified over 4,000,000 guests from all over the world.

Dracula’s has always been and continues to be produced, written and directed by the Newman

70 | destinations Victoria

Family, an all Australian entertainment success story that is truly immortal.

The Newman’s have assembled a multi-talented cast, all legs and fangs, each one of them a specialist in their art. From aerial acrobats, cabaret singers, die-hard rock musicians to drag comedians and puppeteers. The show catapults the audience through several death-defying hoops, as they clutch their tummies with laughter!

The productions are a right of passage for any lovers of Berlin style, Night Cat Cabaret. They have the polish of a Newman Entertainment production, along with flick-knife comedy with a surprisingly sharp edge. The shows are presented in three fast-paced acts, with two intermission breaks that allow just enough time to catch your breath and order another red.

At Dracula’s every corner hides a secret; every experience will leave you screaming with delight.

There is nowhere in the world quite like Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant. Dare to enter and you will leave exhilarated.

Need to know For more information about experiencing this unique venue yourself, visit draculas.com.au or give the operators a call on 1800 DRACULAS.

“ A n a b s o l u t e m u s t s e e . G r e a t s h o w.

G r e a t c a s t . G r e a t f o o d . Aw e s o m e v e n u e . �

- Tammy S, Tripadvisor.

destinations Victoria | 71

Introducing a unique interactive experience s

destination

Victoria

1 2 3

Simply download the destinations Victoria app from the App Store.

ThE APP IS COMPATIbLE WITh ALL ANdrOId ANd OS dEVICES

use your mobile device to scan the page where you see this icon.

The app will then seamlessly deliver you our partners’ website, including competitions, photo galleries and more.

destinations

destinations

aUStraLia Victoria rich &rare THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR EVERY KIND OF TRAVELLER 2016/2017 EDITION

THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR EVERY KIND OF TRAVELLER 2017 EDITION 1

our naTural Wonders

澳大利亚的自然奇观

2017 EDitioN 1

EASY & FREE!

DIVE IN!

uniquely australian experiences

HOMETOWN HEROES

Meet local legends in every capital city

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

ROOM COPY ONLY PLEASE LEAVE FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF OTHER GUESTS TO PURCHASE YOUR COPY VISIT MAGNATION.COM

PLUS ›› ››

aboriginal cultural tours

SHOPPING AND ATTRACTIONS ROAD TRIPS FOR EVERY STATE

EXCLUSIVE 48-PAGE LUXURY GUIDE INSIDE

Destinations Australia Magazines

ARCADE GAMES MELboURNE ShoPPINg ThRoUgh ThE agES

拱廊寻宝 墨尔本购物穿越之旅 ROOM COPY ONLY PLEaSE LEaVE For tHE ENJoYMENt oF otHEr GUEStS

ART EXPLORER

regional galleries & museums

WHAT’S ON event calendar

LOCAL HEROES

an insider’s guide to Melbourne

to PUrcHaSE YoUr coPY ViSit MaGNatioN.coM

@destinationsmags

A family-run business since 1916, Publicity Press is a boutique publisher of premium travel, sport and home magazines Publicity Press Pty Ltd, 1 Albert Street, richmond, VIC Australia 3121 | (03) 9804 4700 | sue@publicitypress.com.au publicitypress.com.au

PRECINCTS The inside story on Melbourne’s inner spaces Photograph: Roberto Seba/visions of victoria

Chinatown, Melbourne

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGE: Neale Cousland/Shutterstock.com

Celebrate the city Experience Melbourne’s many charms with an array of temptations for every traveller, whatever the season

74 | destinations Victoria

Inner City | Precincts

M

elbourne is always changing.

During the winter frost, sports fans huddle in stadiums while cinema buffs hole up at the Melbourne International Film Festival and its many spin offs (miff.com.au). In spring, new buds bloom and frocks are donned as the Spring Racing Carnival begins (racing.com/ spring), and there’s nothing like the summer music festival circuit, or balmy nights downing cocktails at rooftop bars or sharing a picnic with friends at the open-air cinema and theatre events that pop up on summer nights in city parks.

Year by year, season by season, Melbourne is constantly evolving, with a progressive dining scene, world-class wineries and craft breweries, premier arts festivals and UNESCO City of Literature status. It is frequently voted the World’s Most Liveable City, come and see why for yourself.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: Shutterstock, Visions Of Victoria, Roberto Seba

FEDERATION SQUARE Launched in 2002 to coincide with Australia’s Centenary of Federation celebrations, Federation (or ‘Fed’) Square is a modern piazza built on top of a working railway. Opposite iconic Flinders Street Station, it is made up of a series of interlocking spaces. The design was heavily influenced by the idea of ‘Federation’, combining disparate parts to form a whole.

Despite being a relative newcomer to the city landscape, it is almost impossible to imagine Melbourne without Federation Square. This thriving hub is home to shops, restaurants and cafes, plus more than 2000 events per year including free concerts, film and cultural festivals, exhibitions and forums. The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is dedicated to the moving image in all its forms – film, television, internet and video games – with a range of festivals and exhibitions, many of them free (acmi.net.au), while The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia presents Australian art from the Colonial period and the Heidelberg School through to present day (ngv.vic.gov.au).

Meanwhile, No Vacancy Project Space provides exposure for emerging artists (no-vacancy.com.au).

SOUTHBANK A short stroll over the Princes Bridge (or a brief jaunt across the river in a water taxi) and you’re in Southbank. The gateway to Melbourne’s arts precinct, this stretch is heaven for art lovers, with many of the city’s major arts institutions within walking distance, including Australia’s largest performing arts centre and Hamer Hall (artscentremelbourne.com.au), the National Gallery of Victoria (ngv.vic.gov.au), and the

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (mso.com.au).

It’s also a foodie’s nirvana with a range of options available for long lunches or quick post-theatre meal including Modern Australian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and Mediterranean (celebratesouthgate.com.au).

EXPERIENCE CROWN Head south along the banks of the Yarra to Crown Entertainment Complex for more mouthwatering dining options, including Neil Perry’s awardwinning steakhouse Rockpool, No.8 by John Lawson for the finest local and seasonal produce with a regional bent, or innovative Japanese at Nobu. Take in a film at Village Crown, treat yourself to a day spa or try your luck at the casino (crownmelbourne.com.au).

COLLINS STREET PRECINCT The magnificent tree-lined boulevard at the eastern end of Collins Street is known as the ‘Paris end’, an uninterrupted stretch of designer shopping, exclusive jewellers, fine chocolatiers and private clubs, all housed in grand heritage buildings. Treat yourself with a little something from Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Hermes in Collins Street (collinsstreet.com.au), or spend some time at Collins Place where you’ll find international retailers like Giorgio Armani side by side with local designers, plus gifts, homewares and award-winning dining (collinsplace.com.au) DV

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Melbourne’s city skyline incorporating Heritage-listed Flinders Street Station and Ponyfish Island, a bar tucked under the pedestrian bridge; Crown Casino at night; Federation Square.

Getting there TRAM: Jump on any tram along Swanston Street and St Kilda Road, including the free City Circle Tram which runs in both directions approximately every 12 minutes.

TRAIN: Flinders Street Station is opposite Federation Square.

WATER TAXI: Regular services operate between Southgate, South Wharf, WTC Wharf and Federation Square. For more, visit melbournewatertaxis.com.au

destinations Victoria | 75

Down by the docks With an enviable location on the Yarra River’s south bank, the Docklands precinct delivers shopping and dining experiences that are constantly evolving

76 | destinations Victoria

Precincts | Docklands & South Wharf

O TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / REFERENCES: DOCKLANDS.COM / images: shutterstock.com

nce a thriving transport hub handling imports of coal, steel, wool, wheat and live animals, the area formerly known as Victoria Dock fell into disuse and disrepair before an extensive revamp transformed it into the bustling commercial, residential and recreational centre you will find there today. Already attracting millions of visitors each year, when the planned Docklands precinct is complete in 2025 it will be almost double the size of Melbourne’s CBD and home to 20,000 residents and 60,000 workers.

NEWQUAY NewQuay delivers the best of city living with a promenade of restaurants serving up cuisines from all over the globe, including Chinese, Moroccan, Indian, Greek, Italian and, of course, Modern Australian. Plus bars, shops and cafes tucked with contemporary apartments and a business precinct, plus a stunning marina and spectacular city views. NewQuay is also home to an impressive public art collection and a rotating calendar of events, from boat shows to food festivals (newquay.com.au).

SOUTH WHARF Located on the Yarra’s southern bank, adjacent to the Docklands, South Wharf is a hub of shopping, dining and conference facilities. Shoppers need look no further than DFO South Wharf to satisfy their craving for a bargain (dfo.com.au/southwharf). Home to 100 leading retailers specialising in fashion, footwear, children’s wear, handbags, jewellery and accessories – all at massively discounted prices – you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at DFO, with plenty of dining options to keep your energy levels up while you search. Venture outside to South Wharf Promenade for a slow food experience on the scenic waterfront. Take your pick from a variety of restaurants housed in and around the restored heritage cargo sheds that line the river (southwharfpromenade.com.au). DV

Getting there To get to South Wharf, simply stroll along the river from Southbank or Federation Square and you’ll be there in 10 minutes. Alternatively you can take the number 70, 96, 109 or 112 tram or hop aboard a water taxi (melbournewatertaxis.com.au). clockwise from top: Docklands skyline; Melbourne Star; Webb Bridge; Etihad Stadium.

destinations Victoria | 77

WTC Wharf Ideally placed to witness the growth on the western edge of the CBD, WTC Wharf – The Northside is home to an exciting array of restaurants and bars

N

estled on the city-side banks of the Yarra River and adjacent to Crown Casino and South Wharf Promenade, WTC Wharf – The Northside at Melbourne’s World Trade Centre is fast becoming the new face of Melbourne. With over 180 metres of absolute water frontage, visitors to WTC Wharf are able to access the precinct directly from the water.

More than 1000 car parks in the precinct and close proximity to Southern Cross station, together with two tram routes on the doorstep, makes it easy to get to WTC Wharf – The Northside.

The entire Yarra waterfront at WTC Wharf features stylish and diverse restaurants and bars that tempt with an array of tastes along with

many takeaway food retailers for those looking for a quick lunchtime bite. the Wharf Hotel enjoys the unique combination of a friendly local pub with stunning river views and waterfront ambience.

The architecture and interior draws influence from the ‘wharf’ location, seamlessly incorporating features of the old wharf in a contemporary design.

The menu has been expertly crafted to celebrate the best of Victoria’s local and seasonal produce. A modern Australian influence on quality pub meals is executed through simple yet elegant dishes. From private dining and sit down dinners to cocktail events and group drinks, The Wharf Hotel can help make every occasion a special occasion.

A WTC Wharf Promotion

Byblos Bar and restaurant takes Mediterranean cuisines and combines with lavish surrounds and a world class drink selection. Scrumptious shared plates are a favourite with Melburnians.

With inside and outside dining options and the ability to cater for small or large groups, Byblos will cause a stir in Melbourne’s famous culinary community.

Kobe Jones riverside teppanyaki combines modern Japanese cuisine with a Californian twist, attentive service, stylish interiors and stunning Yarra River views.

Highly skilled teppanyaki chefs deliver a culinary experience that is truly unique, featuring a large teppanyaki table with 19 cooking stations and seating for up to 50 people.

Man Mo @ Wtc Adorned with traditional Lucky Charmed Tassels and paintings, and with red and gold lashes of colour throughout the restaurant, customers visiting WTC Wharf’s Man Mo, are transported to the exotic Orient whilst dining on traditional and modern Chinese dishes with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood.

Unprecedented riverside views delight patrons equally in the restaurant or in their exquisite private dining rooms, making it the perfect option for your next function.

Wtc Wharf waterfront is easily accessible with our very own Wtc Water taxi service, Melbourne Water taxis.

Need to know LOCATION World Trade Centre 18 – 38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne

GETTING THERE BUS: Route 235/237/238 Via Spencer Street, Whiteman Street, Williamstown Road TRAM: Route 248/70/75/96/109/112 Via Spencer StreetCity Circle TRAIN: Southern Cross Station

destinations Victoria | 79

Destination Fashion Discover Melbourne’s Spencer Outlet Centre, the home of fashion, food and convenience

C

onveniently located right next to Southern Cross Station, Etihad Stadium and above the busy Skybus Terminal, Spencer Outlet Centre is Melbourne CBD’s largest outlet centre. With over 110 stores including all the brands you know and love, a visit to Spencer Outlet Centre is a must for all fashion and bargain conscious shoppers, as there are great deals every day!

Big brand stores include Cotton On Mega Store, Harris Scarfe and Trade Secret – all of which are exclusive to Melbourne’s CBD at Spencer Outlet Centre.

Melbourne is known as the home of the best coffee and Spencer Outlet Centre doesn’t disappoint with some of the well-known

2 | destinations Victoria

A Spencer Outlet Centre Promotion

brands like The Coffee Club, Starbucks and Michel’s Patisserie but also some amazing independent cafes to indulge in such as Le Cirque Fine Foods, Theobroma Chocolate Lounge and Coffee Rush.

The centre food court opens every day at 8am for breakfast and trades after 6pm on any Etihad event days. If you are coming to watch a game of footy, soccer, cricket or to see a concert why not grab a bite to eat first!

If you are travelling from regional Victoria, interstate or even overseas, don’t forget to pick up your FREE copy of the Spencer Outlet Centre VIP Tourist Rewards Booklet from Centre Management or at one of the Melbourne Visitor Centres for even more great savings in centre and make use of the centre’s free customer Wi-Fi. Literally located above the Skybus Terminal and next to Southern Cross Station – Spencer Outlet Centre is the perfect location to grab those last minute gifts or do that last bit of Melbourne shopping before heading home.

For those history or transport buffs, come and check out the History of Transport Mural that depicts the first 100 years of transport in Victoria from 1835. The mural was originally commissioned by the State Government of Victoria in 1973 to artist Harold Freedman, for the main wall of the Spencer Street Station.

After the redevelopment of the Spencer Street Station in 2004 it was repositioned to within Spencer Outlet Centre and is now a feature along the back wall of the mini-major stores.

Spencer Outlet Centre is open 7 days a week between 10am – 6pm, with late night trading on Fridays until 8pm. To become a VIP Customer and be the fi rst to fi nd out about special offers and centre events, visit the website.

Need to know Level 1, 201 Spencer Street Docklands VIC 3008 Call us on (03) 8689 7577 FOLLOW Us spenceroutletcentre @spenceroutletcentre spenceroutletcentre.com.au

destinations destinationsVictoria Victoria| |81 3

PReCINCTS | Laneways

City secrets

I

t’s always a thrill entering Melbourne’s hive of bustling laneways, with their covert boutiques, famed restaurants, hole-in-the-wall cafes and unique bars. Give ‘main street’ a miss and duck down the alleyways instead, where you might discover surprising street art, creative boutiques, quirky bars, or your new favourite restaurant.

an extension of the subway that connects Degraves Street with Flinders Street Station, is one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets. It’s packed with unique stores including a zine shop, CD and vinyl emporium, unisex hairdresser and hole-in-the-wall coffee house. This junction is also the perfect place to shop for recycled fashion, handcrafted jewellery and accessories.

WINE & DINE Closed to traffic to accommodate the hoardes of food lovers who visit for lunch and dinner, Hardware Lane is reminiscent of Europe’s culinary capitals, with waiters spruiking their wares on the cobblestoned streets outside their restaurants. There is a veritable smorgasbord to choose from, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Italian, Mexican, Modern Australian and American BBQ. Tattersalls Lane is bursting with treats fit for Chinatown, while Degraves Street is renowned for its cafe culture and boutique shopping. Further east, Meyers Place is home to a quirky mix of bars and restaurants, from Argentinian food to a cocktail bar inspired by Prohibition era speakeasys, and a unique arts hub.

ART ATTACK Laneway art starts at street level, with stencils, paste-ups and murals commissioned by the city council.

Artworks are hidden in laneways across the city – head to Hosier, Caledonian or Union Lanes and Centre Place for inspired, ever-changing street art, or join a tour for insights from practising street and fine artists. Centre Place is one of Melbourne’s most photographed laneways, with a vibe reminiscent of somewhere like Rome, while Hosier Lane is a quintessential stop on any street art tour, with an ethical cafe and an iconic tapas bar to boot.

Music lovers should make a beeline for AC/DC Lane, named for the legendary rockers and boasting its own beloved live music venue, along with restaurants and a wine bar, while Flinders Lane is home to Australia’s largest concentration of commercial art galleries as well as Craft Victoria, which represents craftspeople from across the state (craft.org.au). DV

RETAIL THERAPY Melbourne’s rag trade began in Manchester and Flinders Lanes. These days the sartorially inclined are catered to with a range of contemporary men’s and women’s fashions created by local and international designers. Nearby Campbell Arcade,

82 | 82 destinations | destinations Victoria Victoria

MAIN IMAGE: Street art in Hosier Lane.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM / IMAGES: Tourism Victoria, Roberto Seba

Melbourne’s laneways are full of surprises, from quirky bars and restaurants to brilliant boutiques and surprising street art

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGE: Supplied

Nightlife | PReCINCTS

Stay up late Melbourne after dark is filled with romance and adventure, whether you’re looking for a quiet nightcap or to make a night of it One of the best ways to experience Melbourne as the sun goes down is over a drink at a rooftop bar. We love Madame Brussels, a rooftop terrace complete with a grassy parlour, sophisticated cocktail menu and blankets for those chilly Melbourne evenings (madamebrussels.com). Upstairs at the Carlton Hotel, the palm trees and tropical cocktails at Palmz set the mood for a steamy urban drinking session (thecarlton.com.au), while Bomba on Lonsdale Street serves up Spanish tapas and wines along with cocktails over two floors, including an impressive rooftop bar (bombabar.com.au).

Those with the stamina to scale seven floors at Curtin House in Swanston Street will be duly rewarded with impressive city views from the Rooftop Bar. From December to April you can enjoy films under the stars. It’s one of the best locations around to catch the fireworks at Moomba and on New Year’s Eve, and simply a great spot for a drink on a balmy summer evening (rooftopcinema.com.au).

But you don’t have to scale a skyscraper to get a drink in Melbourne. A few flights down from the Curtin House rooftop, the Toff in Town hosts music, dance, theatre, comedy and DJ sets, both local and international. It’s also a great place for a late-night snack with the bar and kitchen open until 3am weekdays and 5am weekends (thetoffintown.com).

On the first floor, Cookie is a bustling beer hall with a sensational Thai menu (cookie.net.au).

One of Melbourne’s most iconic drinking holes, Section 8 is a city beer garden with a difference, carved from a cut-out shipping container that has been deposited in one of Chinatown’s empty parking lots (section8.com.au). Also worth a visit is the Chill On Ice Lounge, where everything you see or touch – from the bar to your shot glass – is made from 50 tonnes of carved ice. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You could drink out every weekend for a year and only make a dent in Melbourne’s bar scene, but we promise you’ll have fun trying.

For the grown ups, King Street is Melbourne’s main nightclub and adult entertainment district. Its 19th century warehouses have been converted into hotspots for partygoers, and many of Melbourne’s major attractions – including Federation Square, Crown Entertainment Complex and

Eureka Skydeck – are within a few blocks, making King Street a useful base for overnight or simply a memorable night out.

JEWEL IN THE CROWN As well as being home to the casino, the ritzy Crown Entertainment Complex on the Yarra River’s southern bank offers a plethora of night-time entertainment options, from Melbourne’s highest and most exclusive watering hole 28 Skybar Lounge, to Crown Sports Bar where you can experience the adrenaline of your favourite sports on the big screen. Glamorous Atrium Bar is a must for lovers of champagne and jazz, while clubs such as Co. nightclub and Fusion offer you the chance to dance the night away – and don’t miss the hourly fire display outside Crown Casino (crownmelbourne.com.au).

SHINE ON It’s hard to beat the pure pleasure of belting out your favourite song in the company of friends. If you agree, you’ll find it hard to pass up an opportunity to shine at one of Melbourne’s karaoke bars concentrated mainly around Little Bourke Street. From authentic private booths at FM (fmkaraoke.com.au) and KBox (kbox.com.au) to the vast themed rooms at Rainbow World (rainbowworld.com.au), you’ll find a place to shine.

If you prefer to let your feet do the talking, dance the night away at dozens of bars and nightclubs across Melbourne. From R&B to retro, dubstep to disco, house to hip hop, funk to reggae, and Latin to Afro beat, there’s a dance floor that’s perfect for you. If effervescent indie pop is more your thing, don’t miss dapper comedian Andrew McClelland and friends as they take over the decks every fortnight at Carlton’s Bella Union Bar to play all your favourite pop tunes until 3am, from The Supremes to The Smiths, Prince to MGMT and more. DV

MAIN IMAGE: The Toff in Town.

destinations destinations Victoria Victoria | 85 | 85

MeLBOUrne | Heading to go here A xxxxxx Promotion

Chinatown Melbourne Dining I Accommodation I Shopping I Entertainment

C

hinatown Melbourne is one of Melbourne’s most distinctive and well-known precincts, dating back to the gold rush days of the 1850s.

Chinatown’s essential character and main focus is along Little Bourke Street, between the boundaries of Spring and Swanston Streets, and between Bourke and Lonsdale Streets, including the laneways and alleyways within these boundaries.

An immediately recognisable Melbourne icon, Chinatown buzzes with restaurants, Asian grocery stores, Chinese medicine and herbalist centres, karaoke venues, nightclubs, bars, bookstores, boutiques and other exciting retailers in arcades such as Mid City Arcade, The Target Centre and the Paramount Centre.

True to its name and predominantly of Chinese ethnicity, cosmopolitan Chinatown offers myriad cuisines including Thai, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Indian and contemporary Euro-Australian.

Head to Heffernan Lane on every third Friday of the month for Chinatown Market Day – where hawker-style stalls will entice you with plump dumplings, steaming noodles, spicy satays and more. Open from 4pm till 10pm.

The Chinese Museum and Visitor Centre is one of Chinatown’s major attractions. Five levels showcase many artefacts and photographs from the Gold Rush days to the present. Guided tours of Chinatown, and of exhibits in the Chinese Museum, are also available. The Melbourne Dai Loong (Melbourne Big Dragon) can be found ‘residing’ at the Chinese Museum.

ACCOMMODATION CITY LIMITS SERVICED APARTMENTS MELBOURNE 20-22 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9662 2544 Recently refurbished, modern interior décor and our friendly staff are here to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.

CROSSLEY HOTEL 51 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9639 1639 This boutique hotel is surrounded by classic theatres, and right in Chinatown, hip bars and many unique restaurants.

MANTRA ON RUSSELL 222 Russell Street, Melbourne (03) 9915 2500

On the doorstep of Chinatown you will find the brand new completely refurbished Mantra on Russell offering sophisticated Melbourne accommodation for business or leisure.

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING EAST END THEATRE DISTRICT CBD, Melbourne eastend.melbourne Melbourne’s East End Theatre District is the entertainment precinct in the world’s most liveable city. home to six historic theatres, all within walking distance.

EMPORIUM MELBOURNE 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

(03) 8609 8221 emporiummelbourne.com.au Emporium Melbourne is the city’s premier retailer destination, committed to delivering a world class retail experience by effortlessly integrating a fusion of fashion, culture, food and art.

EXTRAGREEN HOLIDAYS 260-262 Swanston Street, Melbourne 1300 652 916 extragreen.com.au Your one-stop travel shop for any destination.

RYDGES HOTEL 186 Exhibition Street, Melbourne (03) 9662 0511 rydges.com Features 363 rooms and suites, a heated rooftop swimming pool and Locanda Restaurant & bar.

QUEST ON BOURKE 155 Bourke Street, Melbourne

FREE WIFI(03) 9631 0400 now available at \

RYDGES MELBOURNE HOTEL

questonbourke.com.au great central location for 63 fully self contained, one and two bedroom serviced apartments. 24 hour reception, health club on site - close to shopping, dining and theatre.

HOTEL FEATURES

WE ACCEPT

• Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD and adjacent to Chinatown • Featuring 363 rooms and suites • Heated rooftop swimming pool • Locanda Restaurant & Bar

HERITAGE & CULTURE CHINESE MUSEUM 22 Cohen Place, Melbourne

(03) 9662 2888 chinesemuseum.com.au Five levels of history and artefacts, including the Finding gold experience, the Dragon gallery, and special exhibition “han Dynasty: Life Everlasting” (1 JuLY 2016- 30 APRIL 2017).

Open daily, 10am to 5pm.

GOLDEN NUGGET HOTEL 117 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

03 9639 2294 goldennuggethotel.com.au The CbD’s home of wagering and live sport. Our state-of-the-art TAb is a punters dream with 4 betting terminals, 8 EbT’s, Keno and trackside for all your betting needs.

MIDCITY ARCADE 200 Bourke Street, Melbourne (03) 9662 3337 midcitycentre.com.au Offers you a variety of shopping destinations. Restaurants, Food & Drinks, hair & beauty Salons, Internet Cafe, Chinatown Cinema and more. Car Park available. Open Daily from 10am to 9pm.

TARGET CENTRE

222 Bourke Street, Melbourne targetcentre.com grab something delicious to eat - dine in or take-away, coffee, massage, chemist, watch/shoe repair, optometrist, some retail therapy plus so much more at one of our 16 retailers.

The Chinatown Precinct Association Inc. is recognised by the City of Melbourne to promote and market Melbourne’s Chinatown.

It conducts a number of activities throughout the year, like The Chinatown Melbourne Market and the God of Prosperity appearances during Chinese New Year celebrations, and also participates in other events like the Asian Food Festival. The Chinatown Precinct Association Inc. works together with the City of Melbourne to improve the streetscape and infrastructure of Chinatown.

Information – mobile: 0418 589 778 or email: cpamel@bigpond.net.au | chinatownmelbourne.com.au

86| destinations 2 | destinationsVictoria Victoria

A xxxxxx Promotion

celebrating more than 160 years of chinese settlement in Melbourne, the iconic chinatown Precinct offers cultural history and is the favourite place to eat, stay, shop and meet

RESTAURANTS AJISEN RAMEN

CHINA RED

130 Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9662 1100 Shop 13 Melbourne Central, 211 La Trobe Street, Melbourne (03) 9650 8986 Ajisen Ramen specialises in tonkotsu ramen soup.

Quality food and great value.

Shop 6, 206 Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9662 3688 In contemporary surrounds, use the easy self-ordering system to select juicy dumplings, Shanghai, Canton and Szechuan style dishes.

DAHU PEKING DUCK RESTAURANT

GAYLORD INDIAN

171 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9663 3868 Relax and enjoy a delightful meal including signature Peking Roast Duck in an impressive ambience.

JERKY HOUSE Shop 5/206 Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9663 6610 LG69, 211 La Trobe Street Melbourne (03) 9939 6747 Visit our one stop shop for mouthwatering 100% Australian meat jerky.

SHARK FIN INN 50 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9662 2681 Located at the top of Little bourke Street, enjoy hong Kong style Yum Cha and a variety of live seafood (open until 1.30am).

4 Tattersalls Lane Melbourne (03) 9663 3980 Specialising in Tandoori cuisine.

Authentic dishes cooked to perfection.

OLD CRYSTAL JADE HOT POT 3-5 Waratah Place Melbourne (03) 9662 1949 An outstanding hot pot menu with 8 kinds of soup base to choose with the freshest ingredients savoured in a cosy, rustic yet very modern ambience.

SPICY FISH RESTAURANT 209 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9639 1885 Contemporary and stylish décor.

Executive Chef Mr hui captures the true taste and value of ‘spicy fish’ dishes.

CHINE ON PARAMOUNT 101 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9663 6556 Award-winning and contemporary cuisine from key regions of China, as well as a great selection of wines.

HOFBRÄHAUS 18-28 Market Lane Melbourne (03) 9663 3361 Since 1968 the hofbrähaus offers the very best in traditional food, the purest bavarian biers, fun & frolich.

‘Das original and das beste!’

SECRET KITCHEN 222 Exhibition Street Melbourne (03) 9988 7779 An inimitable experience with service from the heart, and rich array of culinary delights, Secret Kitchen merges tradition with innovation creating a Food Paradise for our customers.

CRYSTAL JADE 154 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9639 2633 Enjoy Chinese food with a wide range of beautifully prepared seafood dishes. Roasted goose is now on the already extensive menu.

HUTONG DUMPLING 14-16 Market Lane Melbourne (03) 9650 8128 Scalding Xiao Long bao meat and soup dumplings are the specialty, but there are dishes in Shanghai and Szechuan styles too.

SHARK FIN HOUSE 131 Little Bourke Street Melbourne (03) 9663 1555 Famous for its daily Yum Cha and exquisite authentic Cantonese cuisine with an emphasis on live seafood straight from the water tanks.

TA TA HOUSE

THE CRANE

179 Russell St Melbourne (03) 9654 6288 Melbourne’s newest rising star, Ta Ta house is famous for its homemade dumplings which are made fresh daily. The rice vermicelli served in a 200C stone pot also makes for a great winter warmer.

212 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne (03) 9078 9781 Located in the heart of Chinatown, The Crane Restaurant is the first restaurant in Melbourne to use the Apple iPad as a self-ordering system to choose from a great selection of Shanghai style, Canton style & Szechuan style dishes.

chinatownmelbourne.com.au destinations destinationsVictoria Victoria| |87 3

Northern wonders

Melbourne’s inner north is eclectic, creative and cosmopolitan, with a range of treasures to tempt you

Inner north | Precincts

CARLTON Leafy Lygon Street is the home of Melbourne’s Little Italy and the place to stock up on deli goods or indulge in the finest pizza, pasta and gelato. You’ll also find classic pubs, hatted restaurants and a fancy fromagerie. The arts are alive and well here, too, with literary stalwart Readings Books & Music delivering author talks and events, Cinema Nova’s vibrant selection of arthouse films, and lively theatre offerings from La Mama. Trades Hall is a former union building with an innovative theatre, comedy and live entertainment culture, or get the kids learning at Melbourne Museum, where you’ll find interactive and educational exhibitions for all ages, as well as the world’s third-largest cinema screen (museumvictoria.com.au).

COLLINGWOOD Quirky Smith Street in Collingwood is known for its art and homeware retailers, creative galleries, happening bars and live music venues. Nearby Abbotsford Convent is a multi-arts precinct made up of artists studios, galleries, cafes, a bandroom, outdoor cinema, green spaces and regular markets (abbotsfordconvent.com.au), while Collingwood Children’s Farm provides a slice of country life for city kids. When it comes to food, choose from retro American burger joints and gourmet pub grub or opt for authentic Thai, Indian, Ethiopian and Greek.

Feeling a little bit fancy? Try Panama Dining Room or Saint Crispin.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM / IMAGES: visions of victoria, shutterstock.com

FITZROY Just 10 minutes by tram from the CBD, Fitzroy is Melbourne’s hippest bohemian enclave with galleries, fine dining, hidden bars and vintage shopping. Grab a coffee at Brunswick Street institution Marios, tuck into tacos, Mexican, or American-style diner delights, and finish your day with rooftop drinks at Naked in the Sky. Gertrude Street is lined with local fashion boutiques and vintage stores, specialist book and vinyl retailers, plus some of Melbourne’s trendiest bars and restaurants. Rose Street Artists’ Market runs every weekend, with art, photography, fashion, jewellery, accessories, homewares, vintage pieces and more (rosestmarket.com.au), and there are plenty of quirky shopping options along Brunswick and Getrude streets, from music and books, to fashion and fragrances. Stock up on Australianthemed gifts and Melbournalia at The Melbourne Shop (themelbourneshop.com.au).

RICHMOND Once the gritty, working class heart of Melbourne, Richmond today is hard to define, with equal temptations for foodies, football fans and fashionistas. Bridge Road is made for bargain hunters, with boutiques and outlets galore and

plenty of cafes to fuel your shopping, while Victoria Street is packed with mouthwatering Asian restaurants and markets. Church and Swan Street are overflowing with entertainment and dining options, from sticky-floored pubs to high end cocktail bars. The Corner Hotel hosts local and international acts in an old-school bandroom that accommodates around 800 music fans, with a rooftop bar and tempting pub fare (cornerhotel.com). You’ll also find countless cafes for your caffeine fix, and all manner of cuisine for in between (think Italian, Mexican, seafood and Korean BBQ).

THE GREEN WEDGE Melbourne’s inner north is blessed with an abundance of wide, green spaces, which you can experience via a number of walking and cycling trails just a few kilometres from the city. The Merri Creek Trail stretches over 20 kilometres and passes through Abbotsford, Fitzroy North, Northcote, Brunswick and Coburg along tree-lined Merri Creek, which flows into the Yarra River. It’s one of the city’s most scenic paths, with plenty of native flora and fauna along the way.

Walkers and cyclists can pick up the Main Yarra Trail in Richmond, and head north through Abbotsford, Collingwood and beyond. As its name suggests, this track follows the Yarra River, passing through bushland and urban spaces. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife along the way. DV

In the hood While you’re in the area, don’t miss these local gems. Brunswick is brimming with excellent dining options, from authentic pizzeria 400 Gradi, to Tiba’s Lebanese Restaurant, while CERES Community Environment Park in East Brunswick is a non-profit centre with workshops, permaculture gardens, a cafe, nursery and more (ceres.org.au).

North Melbourne is market central. ‘Queen Vic’ is the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere, with a popular Winter Night Market (qvm.com.au), while the historic Meat Market is home to a unique children’s style market (swaggerchildmarket.com.au).

Northcote and Thornbury are worth a visit, with a plethora of personality-filled bars, pubs, restaurants, live music venues, and quirky shops lining the streets.

There’s also a 1920s cinema with a fully licensed wine and espresso bar (palacecinemas.com.au/cinemas/ westgarth), as well as a food truck stop and beer garden, with mouthwatering offerings that change monthly (welcometothornbury.com).

OPPOSITE PAGE, Clockwise from TOP: Fitzroy Gardens; Smith Street cafe; Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens.

destinations Victoria | 89

Nestled just 15 minutes from the CBD (NO.19 Tram), walk the world and enjoy eclectic retail, a modern fusion of multicultural foods in one of Melbourne’s most vibrant and richly diverse shopping strips.

@Sydneyroadbrunswick

@Sydney_Road

@Sydneyroadbrunswick

www.sydneyroad.com.au

A Sydney Road Brunswick Promotion

SYDNEY ROAD Brunswick ...

Experience the world

Home to the longest shopping strip in the southern hemisphere, there is something for everyone on Sydney Road

N

estled just 15 minutes from the CBD on the number 19 tram lies one of Melbourne’s most vibrant and eclectic shopping strips.

Experience the world and enjoy bespoke retail and a mosaic of restaurants celebrating modern fusion and multicultural fare. European delicacies can be found at the Mediterranean Wholesalers, enjoy a Lebanese banquet at Tiba’s, an infused high tea experience at Impala Peacock, and hearty breakfasts at many a cafe. Sample the mouthwatering Middle Eastern pizzas at A1 Bakery or Tabet’s, then stroll down the hill to peruse the splendid bridal emporiums and well-known couturiers.

Spend the day. Look up and peruse the architecture of the buildings and pop in to an original hand-printed designer boutique, NMBQ or Fink. Explore colourful Turkish ceramics at the Turkishop, Arabic jewellers,

edgy urban fashion, and Japanese homewares, nestled amongst Greek bonbonniere, an Italian pizza restaurant, Japanese sushi, and a French patisserie!

Then stay for the night, as Sydney Road’s pubs and venues come to life with local live music, trivia nights and poetry performances. Start your adventure in one of the fantastic local beer gardens at the Brunswick Green or Penny Black, or experience the grandeur of The Spotted Mallard, with exceptional music happening every night.

It’s vibrant, it’s down to earth, and it’s an experience you just can’t miss.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Tiba’s Lebanese; Green Refectory Pop-up Cafe; Mr Kitley; clothes from NMBQ.

destinations Victoria | 91

Precincts | Inner South

South of the river Discover fashion for every budget, inviting eateries and lively clubs and bars to keep you entertained all night long

PRAHRAN Eclectic Prahran is home to everything from discount stores to high street fashion. At Pran Central your favourite brands come together under one roof, along with food and entertainment (prancentral.com.au).

Fossick through stalls packed with retro homewares, clothes and collectables at Chapel Street Bazaar, or visit vibrant Greville Street, with its vintage stores, edgy cafes, designers, galleries and an iconic record shop (grevillerecords.com.au). Enjoy divine pizza at Ladro (ladro.com.au), Parisian chic at Chez Olivier (chezolivier.com), or go paleo at Palate (palate.com.au).

92 | destinations Victoria

For classic American burgers, head to Misty’s Diner (mistysdiner.com.au), or treat yourself to a little luxury at Woodland House (woodlandhouse.com.au), while Prahran Market is perfect for fresh produce and deli goods (prahranmarket.com.au).

After dark, enjoy a gig or a dance at Revolver Upstairs (revolverupstairs.com.au), Boutique Nightclub (boutique.net.au) or OneSixOne (onesixone.com.au).

WINDSOR In the Windsor quarter, one-of-a-kind designers rub shoulders with second-hand shops selling recycled books, music, antiques and fashion.

Enjoy brunch through to late-night drinks with a side of garage glam at Tyranny of Distance (tyrannyofdistance.com.au), Asian street food at Hawker Hall (hawkerhall.com.au), rare whiskies at Woods of Windsor (thewoodsofwindsor.com), sensational dumplings at Borsch, Vodka & Tears (borschvodkaandtears.com) and classic pub fare at Windsor Castle (thewindsorcastle.com.au), before kicking on at Hoo Haa (hoohaa.net.au). DV

Getting there TRAIN: South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor are on the Sandringham line.

TRAM: From the city, take the Number 6, 8 or 72 tram to Chapel Street.

MAIN IMAGE: The Church Street Bridge links stylish South Yarra with industrious Richmond.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM / IMAGE: Shutterstock.com.au

SOUTH YARRA Start your shopping spree in Toorak Road, then visit Chapel Street boutiques like Alannah Hill, Decjuba, Gorman, Life with Bird and more (chapelstreet.com.au).

Former brewery and jam company the Jam Factory houses a 15-screen cinema complex, including Cinema Europa and Gold Class. After the movie, find a bargain at TopShop, TopMan, Cue and Nine West, and grab a bite in The Mess Hall (thejamfactory.com. au). At Como Centre treat yourself to a massage or makeover, sample vintage fashion and French pastries or enjoy an arthouse flick at Palace Cinemas (comocentre.com.au).

Dine on yum cha at The Oriental Tea House (orientalteahouse.com.au), or traditional Italian fare at CaffĂŠ e Cucina (caffeecucina.com.au). Enjoy a long lunch at France Soir (france-soir.com.au), or get a taste of life as an 1850s aristocrat at historic Como House and Garden, where the stables have been converted into a trendy cafe (thestablesofcomo.com.au).

A City of Boroondara Promotion

WELCOME TO BOROONDARA Get a taste of the good life in one of Boroondara’s many quaint villages and cosmopolitan towns

K

nown for its heritage homes and tree-lined streets, Boroondara has always been associated with the good life. With boutique shopping, trendy bars and restaurants, food and collectables markets, and an abundance of art and music, it’s packed with unexpected finds that will keep you returning.

cAMBerWeLL Circle your way around the Camberwell Fresh Food market for rare cheese, a bouquet of violets and a slab of big heartedness with your veggies and seafood. Buy a ticket to the 1940s via the Rivoli, a flawlessly restored art deco cinema, or unearth a pre-dawn bargain at Rotary’s famous Camberwell Sunday market – Melbourne’s mecca for all things vintage.

KeW Enjoy the hustle of Kew Junction. Savour a celebrity chef’s rustic Greek cuisine, sample one of many caffeine nooks pouring pitch-perfect espressos, or take in a contemporary art show at the fully restored Kew Court house.

GLenFerrie Bordering Swinburne University, this Hawthorn thoroughfare is an education in good times. Home to arcades, cafes and hidden wine bars on rooftops, you’ll also find funky clothing boutiques stocked with designer pieces and unique eateries, including one equipped with an flourmill and herb garden!

MALinG rOAD If you’re searching for a nineteenth century postcard village, Maling Road is it. With a reputation for award winning cafes, this heritage village is also home to one-of-a-kind fashion accessories. Collectors of the 1870s to the 1970s are sure to score at the Maling Road Antique Market in the old theatre.

BALWYn nOrtH ViLLAGe With an aura of understated calm, this little village offers a specialty deli, character-filled florist and a surpising assortment of boutiques.

BUrWOOD ViLLAGe Connection and convenience go hand in hand in Burwood Village, an enclave where friendliness rules and cafes do time as second lounge rooms. You’ll find homewares, specialty cooking accessories, fabric and even fireplaces.

Boutiques champion handmade pieces, local design and stock to-die-for accessories.

AsHBUrtOn Family-friendly with a country feel, the village of Ashburton has boutiques specialising in Australian design, high-end jewellers and standout cafes with killer coffee and Greek pastries.

GreYtHOrn This precinct bloomed in the 1950s, but its iconic ethnic eateries, soulful providores and family-owned coffee shops make a colourful departure from its past. Experience smoky babaganoush and melt-in-your-mouth shish kebabs with weekend belly dancing, or if you prefer, treat yourself to buttermilk pancakes at the local caffeine hub.

MAIN IMAGE: Rundle and Co, Mailing Road.

Need to know For insider tips including what’s on in the neighbourhood and where to meet locals, head to boroondaralife.com.au

destinations Victoria | 93

A Toorak Village Promotion

Village life Ever-so-chic Toorak Village is the shopping destination for the very best in food, wine, cigars, beauty, fashion, jewellery and that special gift in one beautiful location

toorakvillage.com.au

94 | destinations Victoria

IMAGES: RAChEL FIALIDES

T

oorak Village has a history of catering to the ‘high end’ and today it is a compact mix of fascinating shops and dining establishments. With a charming tudor-style village atmosphere, Toorak Village is nestled in the midst of the most desirable real estate in Victoria.

Compact and easy to get around, Toorak Village is home to over 150 unique specialty shops all located within an easy stroll of one another.

You will find the very best in fashion boutiques such as Henry Bucks Menswear, Witchery, Christensen Copenhagen, Basler and stunning diamond accessories from Imp Jewellery. Be pampered and spoilt in one of the beauty, hair and nail salons. Be refreshed in one of the 30 restaurants, cafes, bakeries, bars and fresh food stores – from the bustling Romeos or Manhattan restaurant to the cosy and intimate. Sip coffee in one of the sunny street or arcade cafes then visit Haighs Chocolates for an exquisite tasting or gift.

Visit in May or June when the Toorak Village Sculpture Exhibition is on, bringing sculpture to the windows and streets of Toorak Village. This is a free event with all sculptures for sale and not to be missed when visiting Melbourne. October and November is also a terrific time to visit, for the annual Toorak Village Art Walk where contemporary art on easels is displayed in the shop windows. Walk the village and enjoy this free street gallery-like event that will delight and intrigue all that visit.

Toorak Village is easily accessible from Melbourne’s CBD. Simply catch the No 8 Tram from Federation Square along Toorak Road to stop No 35 where you arrive in the middle of the Village or park in one of the many free car parking spaces.

destinations Victoria | 95

Precincts | Inner East

Rich rewards When it comes to shopping, dining and the arts, quality and class are the order of the day in ritzy Toorak, Armadale and Camberwell For luxury brands in a charming Tudor-style village atmosphere, head to Toorak Village and put your most fashionable foot forward with the help of Henry Bucks and Christensen Copenhagen, or deck yourself out in quality handmade diamond accessories from Imp Jewellery (toorakvillage.com.au).

Dine at Manhattan for a touch of New York chic (manhattanrestaurant.com.au), or try celebrity haunt Romeo’s (romeosoftoorak.com.au), a la carte restaurant Quaff (quaff.net.au), or French gem Bistro Thierry (bistrothierry.com). Keep it casual with The Malvern Hotel (themalvern.com) or Welcome Thai (welcomethai.com.au) or stay in with a bottle of wine from Toorak Cellars (toorakcellars.com.au).

Lovers of the arts will relish Gould Galleries, which has represented some of Australia’s most important artists (gouldgalleries.com), and in May and June each year the sidewalks and shop windows of Toorak Village become a temporary gallery in their own right as part of the Toorak Village Sculpture Exhibition.

ARMADALE High Street Armadale is home to specialty stores for every occasion. From antiques and collectables to bridal boutiques, hair and nail salons, jewels, furniture and fashion (highstreetarmadale.com.au).

Built in 1893, Kings Arcade in High Street, Armadale, houses a range of specialty and high end stores, including bridal shops, beauty therapists and designer homewares (kingsarcade.com.au).

Armadale also boasts a healthy cafe culture, with Grapeseed (1084 High Street), Coin Laundry (coinlaundrycafe.com.au), Gardiner & Field (gardinerandfield.com) and Le Petit Prince (lpparmadale.com.au) among the hotspots. Choose a treat from the decadent windows at Cooper & Millas (1094 High Street, Armadale), or keep the kids happy at Cubbyhouse Canteen, which serves up treats for all ages in the middle of a gorgeous park. Around the corner, Glenferrie Road has a more low key vibe, along with fashion, gift, book and homewares stores, global cuisine, ice cream, frozen yoghurt and organic fare.

Rainy afternoons are for gallery hopping. Check out pop culture and animation art at Silver K

96 | destinations Victoria

(silverkgallery.com.au), tribal art and antiques at BC (1069 High Street), and vintage posters at Vintage Posters Only (vintagepostersonly.com) and Leticia Morris (letitiamorris.com). Auction rooms, teahouse and gallery Mossgreen is also worth a visit (mossgreen.com.au).

CAMBERWELL More than 400 stores line Camberwell’s Burke Road, from Victoria Street to Camberwell Junction, making it one of the largest street shopping centres in Victoria.

Check out all your favourite chains plus boutiques, shoe shops, recycled fashion, antiques and collectables, beauty salons, day spas, homewares and gifts (camberwellshopping.com.au). The weekly Sunday Market in Station Street is also a must-visit, packed with art, crafts, pre-loved fashion and other treasures (camberwellsundaymarket.org).

Art Deco classic Rivoli Cinemas has your entertainment covered, with eight screens including Gold Class (villagecinemas.com.au/cinemas/rivoli).

Choose from a variety of cuisines in and around Camberwell Junction, from modern steakhouse The Meat & Wine Co. (themeatandwineco.com) to classic Italian at Fiorelli (fiorellirestaurant.com.au) or Italy 1 (italy1camberwell.com.au), colourful Afghan Village (923 Burke Road), and award-winning Indian at Tandoori Den (tandooriden.com.au). For all your food and flower needs, don’t miss Camberwell Fresh Food Market, open from 7am Tuesdays and ThursdaySaturday (camberwellfreshfoodmarket.com.au). DV

Getting there TRAIN: Most Cranbourne, Pakenham and Frankston services from the city stop at Toorak and Armadale.

For Camberwell, take the Belgrave/Lilydale line.

TRAM: Take Number 8 from the city to Toorak Village, Number 6 to High Street Armadale or Number 72 to Camberwell Junction.

To plan your route, go to ptv.vic.gov.au

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: shutterstock.com

TOORAK

fashion, food, cafés beauty, cinema, travel home, entertainment... we’ve got it all

COME EXPLORE CAMBERWELL Shop with the locals at the sunday market, or browse unique antiques and homewares.

We have boutiques to tempt you, or simply relax at our great cafes.

With over 400 stores, we’ve got it all!

Burke Road & The Junction.

Easily accessed by Train and Trams 70, 72 or 75 from the City

www.CamberwellShopping.com.au @CamberwellShops

Bayside beauty PORT OF CALL Just 20 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Port Melbourne is all gleaming modern architecture and luxury cruise ships, but look closer and you’ll discover restored workers cottages and grand old pubs that pay homage to another era. Here you can relax in welcoming cafes, head out for beachfront beverages, stroll along sandy beaches, or watch from one of the pier-side restaurants as the Spirit of Tasmania heads out every evening for its journey across Bass Strait.

Leave the beach behind and head to trendy Bay Street to get your culture fix at MARS Gallery (marsgallery.com.au), or Port Art (portart.com.au), where you can purchase quality, affordable pieces to take home with you. Take a coffee break at Balderdash (balderdashcafe.com) or My Sister Says (facebook.com/mysistersays), and stock up on sweet

98 | destinations Victoria

treats and baked goods at Noisette (noisette.com.au), then shop up a storm at Bay Street’s swanky boutiques, like clothing and accessory store Diva Scandinavia (11/96 Bay Street). For pub grub and boutique beers, try The Graham (thegraham.com.au), The Local (thelocalportmelbourne.com.au), or the Railway Club Hotel (railwayclubhotel.com.au).

Experience something different at Rose Diner & Bar, where you’ll be treated to homely country fare with African influences (rosediner.com.au), or head to chic Dalmatino for rustic Croatian cuisine (dalmatino.com.au).

PARK LIFE Jog or cycle around Albert Park Lake or visit the Boatshed and set sail (theboatshed.net.au). In March the surrounding roads are transformed into a track for the Australian Grand Prix. Go for a swim, shoot

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM.AU / IMAGES: shutterstock.com

If you love coastal living, the seaside suburbs of Port Melbourne, Albert Park, South Melbourne, Elwood and Brighton are sure to tempt you with great shopping and dining and an easy, breezy lifestyle

Inner South | Melbourne

hoops and swat shuttlecocks at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (msac.com.au), or improve your handicap at the championship public golf course or Albert Park Driving Range (albertparkdrivingrange.com.au). If the arts are more your thing, Gasworks is a vibrant arts precinct producing arts programs and activities for all ages (gasworks.org.au).

Explore the Victorian shopfronts of Bridport Street and treat yourself to elegant fashions at Filly’s Stable or footwear from Le Hoof and Paloma Bleu, while Rose St. Trading Co. boasts fashion, beauty products, accessories and gifts. Visit Avenue Bookstore (avenuebookstore.com.au), and refuel next door at Albert Park Deli (albertparkdeli.com.au). Across the road, Andrews Hamburgers has been a beloved neighbourhood institution for generations (andrewshamburgers.com.au). For a special occasion, enjoy modern Japanese fare at Misuzu’s (misuzus.com.au), dine lakeside at The Point (thepointalbertpark.com.au), or treat yourself to the designer pub grub on offer at The Vincent (thevincent.com.au).

There are refuelling options aplenty in nearby South Melbourne, too. Start the day with a lazy brunch on Clarendon, Dorcas, Park or Bank streets.

Grab a coffee at St Ali (stali.com.au), Dead Man Espresso (deadmanespresso.com.au), or Giddi Up (giddiupcafe.com), enjoy healthy cafe fare from Fed Up Project (fedupproject.com.au), or stock up on fresh produce at the South Melbourne Market for a picnic by the beach or Albert Park Lake (southmelbournemarket.com.au).

Browse specialty shops along Coventry Street and find imported antiques, gifts and homewares at the likes of Mr Darcy, Little Darcy (specialising in children’s gifts) or Nest Homewares, or pop in for a treatment at a nearby salon.

LIFE’S A BEACH Spend an afternoon in Elwood Village, where you’ll find unique shopping options, from health food shops to handmade goods and treasures

from afar. Then grab a bite at Elwood Lounge (elwoodlounge.com.au), The Dining Haul (thedininghaul.com.au) or elegant Vietnamese eatery, Dandelion (dandelion.ws), before hitting the beach.

Further south is Brighton, one of Melbourne’s most exclusive suburbs and home to a diverse selection of shopping precincts. Along Church Street you’ll find supermarkets, a cinema and a selection of high-end fashion and beauty stores including Country Road, Siricco and Witchery. Bay Street in North Brighton is home to cafes, restaurants, fashion and gift shops. Outside Gardenvale Station is Martin Street where you can purchase gifts and clothing, settle in with a glass of wine, a cheese platter and some live tunes at Wine Larder (winelarder.com.au) or grab fish and chips for the road. A pedestrian and bike path runs along the foreshore, lined with parks perfect for picknicking. The Middle Brighton Baths were built in 1881 and still provide opportunities for exercise and play, as well as an onsite cafe and gym (middlebrightonbaths.com.au).

Don’t miss the brightly coloured bathing boxes on the Dendy Street Beach. Designated areas of Brighton’s beaches are perfect for windsurfing and waterskiing, and when the breeze picks up the skies can be decorated with the vibrant sails of kitesurfers. Get schooled in the art at one of the many kitesurfing schools along the bay, which are concentrated around Brighton and St Kilda. DV

Getting there The inner south is serviced by a number of buses and trams from the city as well as trains along the Sandringham line. To plan your route, go to ptv.vic.gov.au

MAIN Image: A row of brightly coloured bathing boxes at sunrise, Brighton.

Seaside playground Glitzy St Kilda is a great place to play, with festivals, concert halls and a century-old theme park

T

he bayside suburb of St Kilda lies just six kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, making it the city’s most accessible beach escape.

It’s popular with families and travellers alike, with bars, clubs, live music venues, top restaurants and an iconic theme park.

FAMILY FUN Rollerblading, skating and cycling are popular pastimes on St Kilda’s foreshore, while kite surfing and stand-up

paddle boarding are top options on the water.

Nearby, Luna Park has been entertaining families for more than a century and continues to provide hours of fun with a mix of heritage and modern rides (lunapark.com.au). St Kilda Rickshaws provide a fun way to get around, taking you where you need to be or simply showing you the sights (stkildarickshaws.com.au), while St Kilda Sea Baths provide a relaxing place to work out, cool off or relax (stkildaseabaths.com.au).

Precincts | Inner South

WINE & DINE Italian eatery The Banff is all about providing more for less (banffstkilda.com.au). At Fitzrovia enjoy comfort food inspired by provincial Italian and British cuisine (fitzrovia.com.au). Sweet tooths are spoiled for choice on St Kilda’s Acland Street, but it’s hard to go past Monarch Cakes with its 80-year-old recipes, many originating from its original shop in Poland (monarchcakes.com.au).

Located above The Prince Bandroom, Circa serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and has an enviable wine list (circa.com.au). Donovans is a Melbourne institution known for its quality comfort food and bay views (donovanshouse.com.au), while Lau’s Family Kitchen is tucked away off Fitzroy Street and beloved by locals for its friendly service and authentic Cantonese cuisine – bookings are essential (lauskitchen.com.au).

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE On the second Sunday of February, St Kilda plays host to Australia’s biggest free summer celebration, the St Kilda Festival. Every year more than 40,000 attendees turn out to enjoy the festival atmosphere and witness some of Australia’s best musical acts (stkildafestival.com.au).

Home of the popular Australian music TV show RocKwiz, St Kilda is a music lovers paradise with live venues that attract local and international musicians and DJs all year round. The Prince Bandroom is a prime destination to catch a gig (princebandroom.com.au), while Australia’s largest theatre, The Palais, is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the country and plays host to a range of performances, including music, ballet, comedy and film screenings (palaistheatre.net.au). DV

Getting there TRAM: Take Number 16 from Swanston Street, Number 96 from Bourke Street, or Number 112 from Collins Street (around 25 minutes) to St Kilda; or Number 3 from Swanston Street or Carlisle Street (around 35 minutes).

MAIN Image: St Kilda Pier. destinations Victoria | 101

Our

Editor’s picks

Since 1978, UGG has employed the finest standards of craftsmanship in the world, using a variety of premium materials that feel like nothing else.

From grade-A Twinface Sheepskin to luxuriously soft UGGpure™ wool, all of our exceptionally high-quality materials are carefully selected, refined and handcrafted to deliver a truly unparalleled experience. Available from UGG House. ugghouse.com.au

At minus 10 degrees IceBar Melbourne is the coolest place in town and the only venue of its kind in Australia, where the walls, tables, chairs and even the bar are made from over 30 tonnes of sculpted ice. During your stay you are provided with a snow cape and gloves to keep you as snug as a bug in a rug.

Open Thursday to Monday from 11am to 10pm and children are welcome until 7.00pm.

319 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (03) 9077 9716 or 1300 ICEBAR icebarmelbourne.com

SHOPPING Camberwell’s greatest appeal lies in its diverse and all-encompassing range of businesses. A combination of the everyday and extraordinary, the things you need and those you desire, the day to day shop or the extravagant purchase. From groceries to fine dining, Target to designer boutiques, Camberwell is where you meet friends, browse the shops or find the services families need from medical appointments, to banking, to health services and even dancing lessons. With over 400 shops and services, they’ve got everything covered. camberwellshopping.com.au

DISCOVER CHINATOWN

Chinatown extends along Little Bourke Street between Swanston Street and Spring Street and dates back to the 1850s gold rush.

Today it is home to eating houses and top class restaurants while retaining its historic character. Head to Chinatown throughout the year for traditional festivals and activities in season, or great food anytime! chinatownmelbourne.com.au

102 | destinations Victoria

ONE OF A KIND Roam the iconic laneways of Melbourne and discover the eclectic world of Spencer & Rutherford. What you’ll find within this gorgeous boutique are incredibly divine, one-of-a kind handbags, unique luggage and beautiful accessories, designed right here in Melbourne.

This Australian brand has one aim in life: to make every handbag addict happy. spencerandrutherford.com.au

Our

Editor’s picks Saké Restaurant & Bar is Australia’s leading and award winning contemporary Japanese restaurant with five locations around Australia, including two in Melbourne. Saké’s innovative and ever-changing menu offers the very best in modern and classic Japanese dishes served with a cool nod to the much-loved Melbourne flavours. Saké Restaurant & Bar is located at 121 Flinders Lane and 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne. sakerestaurant.com.au

Nothing you have ever experienced will prepare you for the awe-inspiring views from the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform. Eureka Skydeck 88 is home to the world’s only “Edge Experience”, a glass cube which projects three metres out from the building – with you inside! Located in Southbank at the top of Eureka Tower, Skydeck 88 is an experience above all else.

MELBOURNE’S MEETING PLACE Enjoy world class restaurants and bars at WTC Wharf, Melbourne’s first absolute wharf-edge dining precinct. Delight in cuisines such as Lebanese and Mediterranean at Byblos, riverside Teppanyaki and modern Japanese fare at Kobe Jones, traditional Chinese dishes at Man Mo and classic Australian pub meals at The Wharf Hotel.

Professionals and visitors can also grab a quick bite within the complex with on-the-go gourmet sandwiches, sushi and other nutritious lunch options. And it wouldn’t be Melbourne without enjoying an aromatic coffee at Degani’s. wtcmelbourne.com.au

eurekaskydeck.com.au

SPENCER OUTLET CENTRE Housing all the brands you know and love, a visit to Spencer Outlet Centre is a must for all fashion and bargain conscious shoppers. The Centre also houses Melbourne CBD’s only big brand stores including Harris Scarfe, Chemist Warehouse, Trade Secret and a Cotton On Mega Store – all of which are exclusive to Melbourne’s CBD, only at Spencer Outlet Centre. Accessible from Spencer Street and conveniently located next to Southern Cross Station, Spencer Outlet Centre is your one stop fashion destination.

Whether it’s the latest fashion trends, homewares, footwear, discount shopping or a lunch break you’re after, Spencer Outlet Centre has all the options to suit your needs. spenceroutletcentre.com.au

Australia’s Leading

Opal Company

Located in the heart of Sydney and Melbourne and showcased in two stunning showrooms, The National Opal Collection is a treasure trove of beautiful Australian Opals. Whether it be a romantic gift, a treasured heirloom, an investment stone, a fashion statement or a souvenir of the trip of a lifetime, the National Opal Collection will have just the piece for you. nationalopal.com

destinations Victoria | 103

WILD about the WEST

FOOTSCRAY Built on the banks of the Maribyrnong River, Footscray is home to migrants from across the globe, and its restaurant culture is all the richer for it. Don’t miss the divine chaos of Little Saigon Market, where you will find the freshest produce and live seafood ready to take home, plus mouthwatering Vietnamese street food to keep your energy up as you shop. Footscray Market is also worth a visit for exotic fruits, cheap butchers and specialty grocers.

On weekends, hole up in neighbourhoods cafe like Rudimentary (rudimentary.com.au) or Footscray Milking Station (35 Bunbury Street), or try authentic Ethiopian fare at Café Lalibela (cafelalibela.com). In

the mood for Italian? Hit up Slice Girls West pizzeria (slicegirls.com.au) or enjoy sweet treats at an iconic pastry shop (tcavallaroandsons.com.au). There are also plenty of pubs where you can while away an evening, from local favourite the Reverence Hotel (reverencehotel.com) to stylish gastropub Station Hotel (thestationhotel.com.au).

Celebrate with music festival Laneway, biennial arts festival Big West, Emerge in the West or the East Meets West Lunar New Year Festival. You can also check out emerging photographers at Ruffian Gallery (ruffiangallery.com), roving theatre courtesy of The Dog Theatre (thedogtheatre.com), or simply chill out in Footscray Park by the Maribyrnong River.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM.AU / IMAGE: shutterstock.com

The dynamic suburbs that make up Melbourne’s inner west are a melting pot of international cuisine, festivals, and a growing arts scene

Inner West | Precincts

YARRAVILLE Close to the city yet exuding a cosy village vibe, Yarraville’s appeal is instantly apparent. It is home to the Sun Theatre, a beloved art deco cinema with a bookshop attached which dates back to 1938 (suntheatre.com.au). Cross the road for a milkshake at The Cornershop (9 Ballarat Street), or enjoy a pre-show cocktail at Acqua e Vino (acquaevino.com.au).

Be sure to make time to visit pastry chef Matt Forbes’ first cafe venture, Cobb Lane (cobblane.com.au) which does the best salted caramel doughnuts around. For quirky gifts and trinkets, look no further than Village Idiom (villageidom.com.au). If your visit coincides with the third Sunday of the month, keep an eye out for the Yarraville Farmers’ Market (farmersmarket.net.au), and in February make a beeline for the local festival where you will find something to delight every family member (yarravillefestival.com.au).

SEDDON Tiny Seddon is a charmer. Sample coffee and cakes at a growing number of cafes, or try something stronger at popular neighbourhood wine bars and restaurants.

We recommend Middle Eastern delight Advieh (advieh.com.au), a short stroll from funky homeware store Sedonia (sedoniaseddon.blogspot.com.au).

Compact Ajitoya Japan’s Kitchen is worth a visit, with delectable dishes and a lengthy Japanese craft beer list (ajitoya.com.au). With its timber interior and relaxed atmosphere, Common Galaxia is the perfect place to people watch while sipping one of their legendary brews (commongalaxia.com.au), while wine lovers will adore Seddon Wine Store, which frequently hosts tastings (seddonwinestore.com.au).

For delicious baked goods and hearty, no-nonsense breakfasts, stop by Sourdough Kitchen (172 Victoria Street). Then pop into vintage treasure box The Diamond Dog (105 Charles Street) or cute toy shop Finch Emporium (finchemporium.com.au) for a souvenir of your stay.

WILLIAMSTOWN Steeped in maritime history and heritage buildings, today Williamstown is home to restaurants, cafes, galleries and ice creameries. Eat and drink your fill as you browse the specialty shops along Nelson Place, kick back along the foreshore, or catch the monthly Craft Market at historic Commonwealth Reserve (williamstowncraftmarket.com.au) Get in touch with Williamstown’s history at the Williamstown Historic Society where you will find memorabilia, paintings, photographs and social

history exhibits (williamstownhistsoc.org.au), take a nightly ghost tour, or set sail on a sunset voyage around Port Phillip Bay on the tall ship Enterprize, a replica of the first ship that brought settlers to the region (enterprize.org.au).

Spend time exploring the Williamstown Botanic Gardens (corner Osborne and Giffard streets), or head further along the coast to Jawbone Marine Sanctuary where you will find a diverse range of animal life rarely seen elsewhere in the bay – discover the colourful inhabitants of rock pools and snorkel the reef and seagrass in search of the resident globefish (jawbone.org.au). If you’re travelling with kids, take a trip to Spotswood to visit Scienceworks, where science and technology are presented in a hands-on, kid-friendly way (museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks).

Nearby Newport is also worth a visit. The former substation has been converted into a cutting-edge arts facility, which hosts everything from circus shows to visual art to live music as well as monthly markets (thesubstation.org.au). Further west, Altona is framed by parks and a wide sweeping beach, with the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre (ljac.com.au) and the Tuesday Beach Market (Pier Street and Logan Reserve, Altona, Tuesdays 9am–3pm) among the highlights. DV

Getting there TRAIN: Take the Williamstown line from Flinders Street Station to Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon or Williamstown (around 30 minutes).

CAR: Take the West Gate Freeway from Melbourne and you will be in Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon or Williamstown in around 20 minutes.

FERRY: Ferries depart daily from Berth 1 at Southgate to Williamstown. Visit the website for details (williamstownferries.com.au).

MAIN Image: View of the Melbourne CBD across the Maribyrnong River as seen from Footscray.

destinations Victoria | 105

O

U T TL E O I K C ER T E C H TH O R U

S

destinations

Victoria THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR EVERY KIND OF TRAVELLER 2017 EDITION 1

2017 EDitioN 1

ARCADE GAMES

ART EXPLORER

MELBOURNE ShOPPING ThROUGh ThE AGES

Regional galleries & museums

WHAT’S ON

拱廊寻宝

Event calendar

墨尔本购物穿越之旅

LOCAL HEROES

An insider’s guide to Melbourne

ROOM COPY ONLY PLEaSE LEaVE For tHE ENJoYMENt oF otHEr GUEStS to PUrcHaSE YoUr coPY ViSit MaGNatioN.coM

destinations

the only women’s triathlon magazine WINTER 2016

issUe PinK 11

aUStraLia THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR EVERY KIND OF TRAVELLER 2016/2017 EDITION

Beth

Rich

&Rare

OUR NATURAL WONDERS

澳大利亚的自然奇观

The MaTernal effecT

DIVE IN!

Uniquely Australian experiences

HOMETOWN HEROES

Meet local legends in every capital city

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

ROOM COPY ONLY PLEASE LEAVE FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF OTHER GUESTS TO PURCHASE YOUR COPY VISIT MAGNATION.COM

PLUS ›› ››

2 1 Week c Olympi ng Traini m Progra

Aboriginal cultural tours

ShOPPINg AND ATTRACTIONS ROAD TRIPS FOR EVERY STATE

EXCLuSIVE 48-PAgE LuXuRY guIDE INSIDE

In hotel rooms and available online now Visit magnation.com

PUBLICITY PRESS PTY LTD 1 Albert Street Street, Richmond

A family-run business since 1916, Publicity Press is a boutique custom publisher of premium travel, sport and home magazines

VIC Australia 3121 (03) 9804 4700 sue@publicitypress.com.au publicitypress.com.au

periodhomereno

Destinations Australia Magazines

@destinationsmags

out of town GET AWAY FROM IT ALL Photograph: VISIONS OF VICTORIA

Lakes Entrance

Country

life

Whether you crave adventure, indulgence or relaxation, Victoria’s regions have got you covered. Leave the city behind and experience a different way of life

Yarra Valley Indulge in premium food and wine and enjoy secluded accommodation and galleries set amidst the abundant vineyards and farmland of the Yarra Valley. A hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to take in sublime scenery like the Healesville and Yarra Glen vineyards, and green valleys and pristine rivers around Marysville and Warburton. Descend to a winery for a breakfast of local produce and sparkling wine and spend the rest of the day visiting the cellar doors at hallowed winemaking institutions or undiscovered gems. Pay a visit to Healesville Sanctuary and get up close with Australian wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, wombats and the elusive platypus. Pick up gourmet treats at farmers’ markets, survey the work of local artists at TarraWarra Estate, and finish with dinner at a winery restaurant like Locale at De Bortoli, Stones of the Yarra Valley, or Eleonore’s at Chateau Yering.

See our Yarra Valley experience on page 126

Mornington Peninsula

TEXT: TOURISM VICTORIA, FREYA OWEN AND CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: VISIONS OF VICTORIA, ROBERTO SEBA, shutterstock.com

For the best of coastal living a short drive from the city, head to Mornington Peninsula. Explore galleries, spas and cafes in seaside villages, cool off at the beach, or escape to the hinterland for gourmet delights at boutique wineries.

Wind around the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay taking in vast ocean views. Pass quaint bathing boxes strung along the beachfronts of Dromana, Rosebud and Mornington, and head inland through rolling hills to orchards, market

108 | destinations Victoria

Regional Overview | Out Of Town

gardens and wineries. Spend a morning boutique shopping in Sorrento, then tee off from the cliff-top golf course at Flinders. Treat yourself to a soak in Rye’s thermal mineral pools, or head to the top of Arthurs Seat for panoramic coastal views. Stay a night in the old Keeper’s Cottage at the Cape Schanck Lightstation and be soothed by the sounds of waves crashing on the shore. Linger over feasts at seaside restaurants in Portsea and Mornington, or tuck in among the vines at any of the celebrated winery eateries around Red Hill and Main Ridge. Catch a wave at surf beaches, scuba dive around the Portsea pier reef system, and frolic with the seals and dolphins in the waters off Sorrento.

See our Mornington Peninsula experience on page 130

Phillip Island Nature and wildlife abound at Phillip Island. Get up close to little penguins, come face-to-face with snoozing koalas and cheer on Grand Prix heroes as you savour every inch of this fun-filled island that is just 90 minutes from Melbourne and accessible by bridge. Unwind in the seaside village of Cowes and enjoy holidays as they used to be. Take your position front and centre for the famous Penguin Parade or check out the seal colonies from the boardwalk at The Nobbies. Grab your towel and cool off with a dip at any of the picturesque beaches before heading to the world famous Grand Prix circuit. Catch major events including the Moto GP and V8 Supercars or rev up in a go-kart. Wind down afterwards with a stroll around shops, galleries, cafes, pubs and restaurants, then pick up fresh seafood or catch your own in Newhaven. Take the kids to Churchill Island, the site of Victoria’s first European settlement, or hit the waves at Cape Woolamai, one of the state’s best surf beaches. Wander along Rhyll beach and absorb the relaxed atmosphere of the esplanade, stand cheek to furry cheek with koalas at the Koala Conservation Centre or spot birdlife at Rhyll Inlet. If you are visiting over the warmer months, more than one million shearwater birds make a spectacular return to the island’s shores each night. These birds journey from Alaska to Phillip Island at exactly the same time each year, arriving in October and departing again in April. They are a sight to behold!

See our French Island experience on page 134

Phillip Island Nature Park

Gippsland Just three hours from Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory is popular with lovers of the outdoors for its stunning bush and coastal scenery and acclaimed walking trails. Central Gippsland is gourmet country, dotted with wineries,

destinations Victoria | 109

Out Of Town | Regional Overview cheeseries, farmers’ markets, and fruit and berry farms.

Explore historic gold towns and maritime villages such as Walhalla and Port Albert, or take to the slopes and spend a day skiing at the Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort. The Gippsland Lakes are fed by the waters of five major rivers and fringed

by Ninety Mile Beach. They provide ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating and sailing. Dine al fresco at a lakeside restaurant or pub, have a family picnic by a river, or take a stroll through the waterfront villages of Paynesville, Metung or Lakes Entrance. Continue east to Croajingolong National Park, a World Biosphere Reserve. With more than 100 kilometres of pristine coastline and hinterland, it is a great place to go bushwalking, surfing or spotting various species of bird and plant life. Mallacoota is a good base for exploring the park and also offers excellent fishing and boating.

See our Gippsland experience on page 154

Great Ocean Road Travel one of the world’s most scenic routes along the Great Ocean Road which covers south-west Victoria and is home to the famous Twelve Apostles. Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are home to beautiful beaches, great eateries, a fascinating heritage and an enormous range of recreational opportunities from fishing and golfing to diving and surfing.

Take in the colourful and lively ambience of bayside Geelong, Victoria’s second largest city, or visit quaint Queenscliff and discover the town’s rich maritime history, excellent restaurants and heritage hotels. Drive along the coast to seaside resort towns such as Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay which offer stunning beaches and water sports as well as some of Australia’s best rainforest scenery in the nearby Otway Ranges. Stop at one of the most visited stretches of the road at the Twelve Apostles. See the rugged splendor of these huge rock stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, then take a helicopter ride to get a bird’s eye view. Discover the region’s rich maritime past at historic towns such as Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland. Enjoy seafaring village life, with fishing wharves, beautifully preserved colonial buildings and maritime museums recounting the stories of ships that have foundered off the rugged shipwreck coast.

See our Great Ocean Road experience on page 140

Grampians Stunning landscapes, fascinating history, sublime food and wine and buzzing regional centres come together in

Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road

110 | destinations Victoria

Regional Overview | Out Of Town the Grampians region. The rugged mountain ranges of the Grampians National Park offer numerous opportunities for outdoor pursuits. These impressive ranges feature lookouts with stunning panoramic views, picturesque waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, colourful wildflowers and abundant native wildlife. Lace up your boots for some of the finest walking in Victoria, or set your sights on the famed rock faces of Mount Arapiles for rock climbing and abseiling experiences. Enjoy water sports including fishing and canoeing in the region’s popular inland lakes and rivers.

Wine buffs will receive a hearty welcome at local cellar doors. Sample an abundance of local produce, from ewe’s milk, cheese and olives to locally sourced beef and lamb, featured on menus throughout the region. Have the meal of a lifetime at Dunkeld’s Royal Mail Hotel. Base yourself in Halls Gap, situated in the heart of the Grampians National Park, for wonderful views of the Wonderland and Mount William ranges. Explore gold rush towns such as Ararat, known for its Gum San Museum that reveals the history of Chinese gold miners, or Stawell, home of the prestigious annual Stawell Gift foot race. The friendly agricultural towns of Horsham and Hamilton are home to gardens, galleries and museums.

See our Grampians experience on page 144

Daylesford and Macedon Ranges Just 90 minutes north-west of Melbourne is the greatest concentration of naturally occurring mineral springs in Australia. Discovered during the gold rush, these springs were protected from the effects of mining by the first Hepburn Springs Committee. Thanks to the foresight of the region’s early residents, you can experience the enriching effects of mineral springs to this day. Treat yourself to a day of pampering at one of the region’s many luxury spas and wellness centres and experience the benefits of holistic therapies. Art lovers will delight in shops and galleries displaying local wares and foodies will be in heaven hopping between restaurants serving sumptuous local food and wines, from fine dining to charming cafes. Hanging Rock, the haunting subject of the Picnic at Hanging Rock book and film, looms large over the region. Pack your own picnic and explore the Rock. Make sure you leave time for the impressive mansions with immaculate gardens in the Macedon Ranges, heritage gardens in Mount Macedon, pristine 19th century streetscapes lined with galleries, antique shops and restaurants in Kilmore, Kyneton and Woodend, and Sunbury where you’ll discover international cricket history and local wines.

See our Daylesford experience on page 150

The Boathouse, Daylesford

The Grampians

destinations Victoria | 111

Out Of Town | Regional Overview

High Country Experience the warmest of welcomes in High Country villages, where the food and wine flow, the scenery is stunning and there are plenty of opportunities to get active in fresh alpine air. Indulge in delectable cool-climate wines and innovative cuisine prepared by passionate local chefs in the gourmet villages of Beechworth and Milawa. Follow the Muscat Trail to Rutherglen’s wineries and pedal around smaller Bright and King Valley villages filling your basket with just-picked local produce. The alpine villages are crowned in pristine white during winter and cloaked with wildflowers in summer.

Visit in autumn to see Bright’s majestic tree-lined streets in all their glory. In winter you can experience the wonderland of snow at Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek and ski and snowboard to your heart’s content. As the snow melts the outdoor activity opportunities increase, with road cycling and mountain biking trails, off-road driving, horse riding and hiking on the plains. The excitement continues with rock climbing, river rafting and fabulous freshwater fishing on the Delatite, Jamieson and Howqua rivers. Discover the history of charming villages, which hark back to the gold rush and bushranger days.

Wander through 19th century buildings in Beechworth, or dig around for Ned Kelly tales in Glenrowan’s historic sites. Roam Benalla’s art gallery for one of the country’s best regional art collections. Swing into the saddle around Mansfield’s epic trails blazed by mountain cattlemen past imposing slopes, each steeped in stories from The Man from Snowy River.

See our High Country experience on page 158

The Murray The mighty Murray River forms the border between New South Wales and Victoria before heading south to the ocean.

Unwind and make the most of the region’s sunny days, its countless natural attractions, renowned slow food and boutique wines. With its Mediterranean climate and beautiful winding waterways, the Murray region is made for outdoor living.

From waterskiing, fishing and sailing to horse riding, hiking and golf, there’s no end of fun to be had. Take the kids on a fishing trip downstream by canoe, enjoy a horse ride, or get a whole new perspective with a scenic balloon flight at dawn.

Nature lovers will delight in a day trip to explore desert scenes Mungo National Park. Or traverse the mighty Murray River in style and at your own pace. Captain your own houseboat and float from town to town, sampling wine, fresh fruit and fine cuisine along the way. Or let someone else do the work, and get a glimpse of the region’s history by taking a ride on one of the authentic cruising paddle steamers built in the late 1800s.

See our Murray experience on page 153 Mount Hotham

112 | destinations Victoria

The Murray River

BENDIGO ART GALLERY Established in 1887, Bendigo Art Gallery is renowned for its outstanding collection of contemporary Australian art as well as a substantial collection of 19th and early 20th century Australian and European works.

The Gallery has cemented its reputation for presenting innovative national and international exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of programs and events.

EXHBITIONS: Maticevski Dark Wonderland 13 August 2016 – 15 January 2017 Gimme Freedom (or gimme death) Jud Wimhurst 5 November 2016 – 12 February 2017 Collective Vision: 130 Years 4 March – 28 May 2017

42 VIEW ST BENDIGO VICTORIA 3550 T 03 5434 6088 BENDIGOARTGALLERY @BENDIGO.VIC.GOV.AU WWW.BENDIGOART GALLERY.COM.AU Open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm

Tucked among the spectacular scenery of Victoria’s regional cities and towns, you’ll find world-class galleries that are truly one of a kind

IMAGE: TARRAWARRA MUSEUM OF ART

HAVE ART WILL TRAVEL

destinations Victoria | 115

BENDIGO ART GALLERY Curatorial Manager, Tansy Curtin After completing a Masters of Art History at the University of Adelaide I had a stint as director of a small commercial gallery but quickly realised selling art was not for me.

My mother visited Bendigo Art Gallery on her travels through regional Victoria and said, “You must get a job there – it’s simply wonderful.”

A short while later, a curatorial position was advertised and I took on a one-year contract.

Ten years, and three different job titles later, I’m still here and very much enjoy my job.

As Curatorial Manager I curate exhibitions, write exhibition catalogues, and manage the Gallery’s acquisitions and loans. I love getting to see things no one else gets to see – the backs of paintings with inscriptions in the artist’s hand, construction details in a piece of historic fashion, behind the scenes at museums and galleries around the world. Sharing my passion for visual arts and culture is also a highlight of my job.

Bendigo Art Gallery is Australia’s largest regional gallery. Over the past decade we whave developed an outstanding program of international exhibitions that can only be seen

116 | destinations Victoria

Galleries | Out Of Town

here. Bendigo is perfectly placed in the geographic centre of Victoria – close enough to Melbourne and other regional centres, but far enough away that it can maintain its own unique arts culture. As well as the Gallery, La Trobe Art Institute and Ulumbarra Theatre are also worth a visit. Bob Boutique is a delightful shop filled with handmade items, almost all of which are Australian made. Chancery Lane is a cute laneway with florists, cafes, clothing boutiques, restaurants and a barber. Plus there are wonderful markets, and the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion – the largest Buddhist temple in the western world.

Being in a regional centre means we have enough space to grow our own food while still being close enough to be able to walk and ride to anywhere we need to go. Plus it’s easy to catch a train to Melbourne to attend a show or just do some shopping!

For details on upcoming exhibitions, including the Gallery’s 130th birthday celebrations, visit bendigoartgallery.com.au

Clockwise from left: Tansy Curtin; Bendigo Art Gallery’s Bolton Court (David Field); Maticevski: Dark Wonderland Commodity Gown (David Field); Maticevski: Dark Wonderland Orchid Room (Bill Conroy); Contemporary Art Gallery 2 (David Field); The Hon. Howard Nathan Gallery (David Field); La Trobe University Gallery (Peter Clarke); Gallery Café and new wing (Peter Clarke).

destinations Victoria | 117

Out Of Town | Galleries

ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT (AGB) Gordon Morrison, Director

THIS PAGE: Gordon Morrison.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Evening streetscape outside the Art Gallery of Ballarat; Colonial Gallery; James Oddie Gallery; Hugh DT Williamson Foundation Gallery; Crouch Gallery.

118 | destinations Victoria

I majored in Ancient History and English back in the Jurassic era (aka the 1970s) and went on to work at the NGV before becoming Director at the AGB in 2004.

Working in any art gallery is a privilege.

Working with an extraordinary collection like Ballarat’s is very special indeed. As Director, I get the incredibly rare privilege of being able to shape the collection. It’s an awesome responsibility but damned enjoyable too.

In terms of Australian painting and sculpture, AGB has one of the most important holdings in the nation. It’s got depth and breadth that sets it apart from any other regional collection. Then there are the temporary exhibitions, which are eclectic to say the least. When we do a pay show, it will have been curated in the fullest sense. That could be anything from shows about Australian cartoons, to botanical art to orthodox icons. Next year our big show ‘Romancing the Skull’ will examine the phenomenon of the skull and the skeleton in contemporary art.

Victoria’s regional arts scene dates back to 19th century goldfields wealth. In the 1880s the regional towns were all vying for attention and wanted to show how civilised they were, so what better thing than to found an art gallery? The present-day media have tried to make a bit of a thing about rivalries between places like Ballarat and Bendigo, but the reality is we all do interesting and complementary work and the last thing we want is to be clones of each other.

It is a case of ‘vive la difference’!

The villages around Ballarat are fascinating: Buninyong, Smythesdale, Learmonth, Talbot, Clunes and Creswick.

They’ve got great antique shops, wineries, markets and eateries. Ballarat is a pretty civilised place. People looking at the view over the town from my backyard often say, “I might be looking out over Heidelberg or Dijon or Cheltenham,” – and that is what this place is like.

For details on upcoming exhibitions, including works by photographer Rennie Ellis, graphic artist Harold Freedman and Ballarat’s GNAP art prize, visit artgalleryofballarat.com.au

Heading toShopping go here | Out | Melbourne Of Town

destinations Victoria | 119

Out Of Town | Galleries

TARRAWARRA MUSEUM OF ART Victoria Lynn, Director

THIS PAGE: Victoria Lynn; (James Boddington); Comet by Bronwyn Oliver. OPPOSITE, FROM TOP: Two Rings by Bronwyn Oliver; architect Allan Powell’s design for TarraWarra works with the contours and hues of the surrounding landscape (Redfish Bluefish Photography); Bronwyn Oliver at work (Sonia Payes).

120 | destinations Victoria

My father, Elwyn Lynn AM, was an award-winning artist and art critic, which gave me a rare insight into how artists think and create. I curated exhibitions throughout Australia, New Zealand and South Korea before starting at TarraWarra in 2012.

As Director, I focus on presenting modern Australian art from the perspective of contemporary art.

We also explore aspects of art and place, in particular local Indigenous histories, and are committed to exhibiting Australian art in an international and global context.

TarraWarra is just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, so it’s an easy day trip from the city. It’s Australia’s first significant privately funded, publicly owned, visual arts museum, and was gifted to the public by collectors and philanthropists Eva Besen AO and Marc Besen AC. Highlighting the extraordinary collection of Australian modern art on which the Museum was founded is an important part of each annual program. Counterpointing those are exhibitions featuring works by contemporary Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists commissioned by the Museum, to explore the Indigenous and European history of the Yarra Valley.

It’s a great pleasure and privilege to have the opportunity to create an original exhibition program here. I love TarraWarra’s spectacular location, and the award-winning architectural design by Melbourne architect

Allan Powell is also wonderfully flexible, allowing multiple ways to reconfigure gallery spaces for each new exhibition.

Forging stronger relationships between the Museum and senior representatives of the Wurundjeri, the region’s traditional owners, has enabled us to create exhibitions which provide visitors with a new understanding of the history of the Yarra Valley.

I always recommend visitors go to the Healesville Hotel for award-winning food while they’re here, and to Healesville Sanctuary to encounter Australian wildlife in a natural bushland setting. High tea at the RACV Club is a must, and there’s a great new Arts Trail map listing artists’ studios and exhibitions in the region, which you can download from Visit Yarra Valley (visityarravalley.com).

For details on upcoming exhibitions, including works by Bronwyn Oliver, Louise Hearman and William Dobell, visit twma.com.au

destinations Victoria | 121

Out Of Town | Galleries

SHEPPARTON ART MUSEUM (SAM) Dr Rebecca Coates, Director Art chose me, and I have always found it feeds the heart, mind and soul. I worked in museums and galleries in Australia and overseas, including the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Museum of Modern Art in Oxford (MOMA, UK), before being appointed Director at SAM in January 2016.

SAM has one of the most significant collections of Australian ceramics, and includes works by early and Modern Australian artists, an important Indigenous collection, and a growing contemporary collection. You can get involved through our education and public program of events – from artist-led meditation sessions, to yoga in the park with an AC/DC soundtrack. There are exciting plans to build a new standalone Museum, which will do great things for Shepparton – attracting tourism and creating new jobs and a space that many feel proud to call their own.

After visiting SAM, take a walk or bike ride along the Goulburn River track for a unique perspective of our inland waterways. Grab a coffee or lunch at Fryers Street Food Store (contemporary Australian) or Little Lipari (Italian), with wonderful local wineries just a short drive away.

For details of upcoming exhibitions, including SAM’s 80th anniversary celebrations, visit sheppartonartmuseum.com.au

122 | destinations Victoria

Clockwise from left: Dr Rebecca Coates; Kungkarangkalpa Tjukurpa (Seven Sisters Dreaming) by Ernabella potters; Landscape with Flowering Peach by Grace Cossington-Smith, 1932; Reko Rennie creating SAM’s Drawing Wall (Amina Barolli); 80/80: Eighty Years of SAM, the Collection.

CASTLEMAINE ART GALLERY Emma Busowsky Cox, Curator I started at Castlemaine Art Museum in early 2016 after about 12 years working in museums and galleries. I have always loved art but it took me a few years and seeing the art museums of the world to realise I wanted to become a museum professional.

Working with an amazing collection, and having the opportunity to develop and interpret is a highlight for me.

Castlemaine Art Gallery dates back to 1931. It was designed by architect Percy Meldrum and is a masterpiece of Art Deco design, so the building itself is a work of art.

Inside, you’ll find an incredible collection of Australian art, and a dynamic program of changing exhibitions. We have nurtured some great talent over the years.

I love Castlemaine’s gold rush history, late 19th century tumbledown aesthetic, the fabulous community and excellent coffee.

While you’re here, Buda Historic Home & Garden is well worth a visit. A survivor of the gold rush era, it was home to the creative Leviny family for 118 years (budacastlemaine.org). And don’t miss The Mill opposite the Botanical Gardens, where you’ll find a cafe and coffee roaster, wine, beer, bespoke ice cream and vintage wares (millcastlemaine.com.au).

For details of upcoming exhibitions, visit castlemainegallery.com

Clockwise from left: Portrait of Emma (Fred Kroh); Castlemaine Art Museum (Carrington McArdle); Bathing Hour by E Phillips Fox circa 1909, oil on canvas.

destinations Victoria | 123

hot air ballooning, yarra valley

TWELVE apostles

ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE

geelong waterfront

FREE ENTRY

Shepparton Art Museum, affectionately known as SAM, has developed a reputation as one of regional Australia’s leading cultural institutions.

70 Welsford Street, Shepparton VIC w sheppartonartmuseum.com.au ph (03) 5832 9861 Open 7 days, 10am to 4pm, public holidays 1 to 4pm Closed New Year’s Day, Good Friday and Christmas Day #SAM_Shepparton Image: NE/LL, Some of the Things I Like, 2016, installation view on display until 19 March 2017, Shepparton Art Museum © the artist

SAM hosts exclusive exhibitions, lectures and workshops and holds a significant collection of ceramic, historical paintings and contemporary art.

, e c I Ice, y b a B

The Yarra Valley might be famous for its wineries, but there’s another mouth-watering reason to visit, Manveen Maan writes

Yarra Valley Experience | Out Of Town

H

aving trained as a gelatiere or gelato maker in Bologna, Davydd Marrie and his wife brought a piece of Italy home with them in the form of Carpigiani gelato machines to set up a slice of iced heaven in Healesville. With a name composed of the Italian words ‘gelato’ and ‘ape’, gelAperia serves up mouth-watering sorbets and gelato, along with Red Bean coffee made in a dazzling vintage machine. Davydd comes from a hospitality background and jokes that he found his way into gelato making because he wasn’t a great pastry chef. In reality, however, he is a meticulous gelato connoisseur. His passion shines through as he speaks with enthusiasm about every aspect of the gelato world.

Access to prime Yarra Valley produce played a pivotal role in the couple’s choice to set up shop here, and Davydd is as enthusiastic about the science of gelato making as he is about the fresh, local flavours.

“I love using as much local produce as possible.

On the menu you’ll see lots of strawberries, kiwis, mangoes, oranges and whatever else is in season here,” he enthuses. “We have a great relationship with the local grocer that I think is a true example of how symbiotic a business truly is.”

True to his word, Davyyd sources strawberries and figs from nearby Cameron’s Road, oranges from a farm gate in Silvan, blueberries and raspberries from Badger Creek Blueberry Farm, and lemons and grapefruit from around Healesville and Badger Creek.

Back in his squeaky clean kitchen Davydd whips out some aprons for us to don throughout the process. A huge vat of hand sanitiser, soap and paper towels sit in the corner, and we’re told to “always keep our hands clean”. The surgical atmosphere ends there though as Davydd takes us through the ins and outs of the strawberry sorbetto and stracciatella gelato that we will make this morning.

We discover what characterises a good gelato, and how it differs from ice cream, before delving into the fundamental ingredients of sorbetto or water-based gelato to understand the role they play in creating the final product. A refractometer is used for sugar measurements, and we are given the lowdown on the role sugars play in producing a frozen dessert that won’t actually be frozen solid. Every fruit has different sugar levels so, unsurprisingly, there are precise mathematical measurements for sugar content depending on the flavour you are creating.

As a rule of thumb, Davydd says, each batch of sorbet should have a sugar content of 27 – 32 per cent. There are typically two types of sugar used

– dextrose and sucrose. The former is less sweet but has a stronger anti-freeze property, while the sucrose gives gelato and sorbet that sweet flavour we all know and love.

“You need to balance every one of these ingredients to get optimum levels of sweetness, and to create the taste and texture that is characteristic of typical Italian gelato,” Davydd says, as he works like clockwork moving mixtures from the workstation to the mantecatore or gelato machine, washing utensils along the way.

“As you’ve probably noticed, we need to keep things very clean in here!”

Davydd stresses the importance of using quality, natural flavourings along with other essential building blocks such as milk and cream for the second, more classic Italian flavour we tackle – stracciatella. Now seasoned pros (ahem!), we set about preparing the ingredients, measuring and mixing under Davydd’s watchful eye, before putting the mix into the mantecatore that does the hard work of churning and freezing.

The emphasis on fresh flavours and top notch produce results in heaven in every mouthful.

While waiting for the gelato to freeze-form, Davydd pops over to man the counter and attend to the gelato-hungry after school crowd. He greets every customer by name and stops to chat with them, making the experience all the more personal. Davydd is clearly a popular man around town, no doubt due to his amiable personality and stellar gelato making skills.

Not long after our smooth cup of coffee, the (icy) fruits of our labour are deemed worthy to be tested, and what a treat indeed – bellissimo!

The emphasis on fresh flavours and top notch produce results in heaven in every mouthful.

It’s safe to say we’ll be back for more! DV

Need to know Each gelato-making session runs for two hours and costs $95+GST. Tea or coffee is provided, along with an apron to keep your clothes clean, and a take home pack of the gelato you make. There is a maximum of four people per session, and participants are advised to wear clean, comfortable flat shoes – preferably with a non-slip sole.

Visit gelaperia.com.au for more information.

destinations Victoria | 127

on the

range

Escape to the Yarra Valley for indulgent food and wine, and disappear into forests and fern glades in the Dandenong Ranges

TEXT: VISITVICTORIA.COM and CASSY POLIMENI

Home

Yarra Ranges | Out Of Town

T

ake an early morning balloon flight, meet passionate food and wine producers, and encounter native wildlife in the Yarra Valley, then wander through walking trails and villages as you discover the hidden delights of the Dandenong Ranges, with its scenic winding roads, abundant artist studios, craft stores and renowned gardens.

EAT & drink Stretching across 10 hectares of landscaped vines and gardens and bordered by the Great Dividing Range, the Oakridge Restaurant has a budding kitchen garden and a menu of (mostly) regional produce, including local trout, caviar and eel in the place of ocean-dwelling fish (oakridgewines.com.au).

The former home of Australian opera legend Dame Nellie Melba, Coombe – The Melba Estate has been transformed into an elegant restaurant, fashion and art gallery, cellar door and providore. Enjoy a la carte dining in the restaurant using fresh produce grown on Coombe Farm, and High Tea on Wednesdays and every third Sunday (coombeyarravalley.com.au). Nearby, ezard @ Levantine Hill serves classic European cuisine with a twist, paired with Levantine Hill wines, all overlooking the stunning vineyard (levantinehill.com.au).

see & do Healesville Sanctuary offers a distinctly Australian setting for unique close-up encounters with some of Australia’s unique and endearing wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, birds of prey and platypus (zoo.org.au/healesville).

While the Yarra Valley can be enjoyed from the ground, it is spectacular when seen from on high with Global Ballooning. Balloon flights depart just after dawn, and float back down to earth about an hour later. Afterwards, celebrate with a post-flight sparkling wine breakfast at one of the region’s foremost wineries (globalballooning.com.au).

Gourmands will love gelAperia’s regular Gelato Making Classes classes, which go beyond simply making the frozen dessert. The cultural history of gelato is discussed over coffee, the importance of high-quality ingredients is put into practice and, at the end of the day, visitors will have their very own sorbetto and creamy gelato to take home (gelaperia.com.au). DV

gelAperia

Dawn flight with Global Ballooning

ezard @ Levantine Hill

Coombe – The Melba Estate

Healesville Sanctuary

destinations Victoria | 129

Gourmet trail There are so many delights to discover on the Mornington Peninsula, and the Wine Food Farmgate trail is the perfect way to begin exploring

I

t’s easy to see why thousands flock to the Mornington Peninsula in summer, but this vibrant region is also well worth a visit in autumn, when you can enjoy spectacular sunsets, brisk mornings and fabulous local produce. Delicious discoveries abound on every corner of this slice of heaven, and with 50 per cent of the Victoria’s Australian Tourism Award winners found here, it’s clear that this small but beautifully formed region punches well above its weight.

Part of the Mornington Peninsula’s appeal is that it doesn’t have a straightforward road layout, so you can discover all sorts of hidden gems as you find your way around. The best way to explore its rich and varied food and wine

130 | destinations Victoria

culture is through the award winning Wine Food Farmgate trail. It features the best seasonal food and wine experiences, and is a great way to connect with chefs and their restaurants, vignerons and their vineyards, artisan producers and publicans, growers and specialty storeowners – it’s a field day for foodies.

Whether you have a day or a week to spare, the Mornington Peninsula is total temptation.

The vineyards here are famous – but you’ll also find new and exciting tastes to enjoy at craft breweries, cider makers and distilleries. Fill your picnic basket, enjoy fish and chips on the beach, share a regional platter or savour a fine dining experience.

Mornington Experience | Out Of Town

Part of Mornington Peninsula’s appeal is that it doesn’t have a straight-forward road layout so you can discover all sorts of hidden gems as you find your way around.

IMAGES: COURTESY OF MORNINGTON PENINSULA REGIONAL TOURISM

FRESH & LOCAL The rich red soils of Red Hill and Main Ridge are home to vineyards, apple orchards and strawberry fields, whereas the sandy loam soils around Boneo in the south and Baxter in the north offer ideal conditions for growing vegetables. This is where you can find colourful heirloom carrots, newly dug spuds, brassicas, and leafy greens of all shades. Find out what’s in season, where it’s grown and how best to enjoy it when you drop in for a chat with local farmers and producers. They love talking about their produce, whether it’s mussels from a pier, apples from the orchard or olives, cheese and freshly baked bread for a delicious lunch platter.

You can pick your own strawberries until the end of April (sunnyridge.com.au), sample high quality sheep or goat’s cheese at local cheeseries (mainridgedairy.com.au), buy the crunchiest apples, sweetest pears, fresh herbs, vegetables, and hampers of local goodies from farmers’ markets or iconic general stores (mgwinestore.com.au). Artisan producers and specialty retailers offer robust and flavoursome olives for the table, or fragrant cold pressed oil for dunking warm crusty bread. Visit a market for free-range eggs, heavenly honey, homestyle pickles and chutneys, handmade chocolates and locally roasted coffee. Fill your picnic basket, find a gift for a friend or treat yourself to a truly memorable meal.

EPICUREAN EDEN It’s no surprise that this bounty of local produce also features on menus across the region. Meet chefs who are passionate about seasonal produce and match it to some of the region’s world-renowned wines. Dine among the vines at Montalto (montalto.com.au), taste tempting produce at Max’s Restaurant (maxsrestaurant.com.au), or enjoy High Tea at Heronswood Gardens on the last Sunday of the month. Be tempted by autumn mushrooms grilled in fresh vine leaves that were grown on the vineyard just metres from your table, fragrant lamb sausages cooked in the farm kitchen, and seasonal vegetables and herbs straight from the garden to your plate.

Share a platter on a sunny deck, find a sumptuous strawberry dessert cafe or a traditional high tea, or book a private picnic in a secluded vineyard location.

With more than 50 cellar doors, you are sure to find a drop to suit your palate. Just make sure you try the regional specialties of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which thrive in the maritime climate.

Local cider-makers offer everything from traditional English-style cider to fresh creations made with

local strawberries and raspberries, award winning craft brewereries aboutn – check out Red Hill Brewery (redhillbrewery.com.au) and Mornington Peninsula Brewery (mpbrew.com.au) – as well as innovative distillers like Bass & Flinders (bassandflindersdistillery.com).

Take home a new skill with classes in cheese and winemaking, distil your own gin, join an olive harvest (hartsfarm.com.au), or gather a group of friends for a cooking class and whip up your own pizza, pasta or sausages (georgiebass.com.au).

Your adventures are almost guaranteed to inspire you to try something new or rediscover something old. Start by creating your very own trail – it will be different every time you visit because you’ll find new discoveries around every corner. DV

Need to know The Wine Food Farmgate Trail is a self-guided trail that covers the best of the Mornington Peninsula’s cellar doors, orchards, farms, restaurants and cafes.

Find out more at winefoodfarmgate.com.au or pick up a Mornington Peninsula Touring and Trails Map at accommodation and attractions throughout the region.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Foxey’s Hangout. this PAGE, from top: Tempting treats from Green Olive at Red Hill; and The Epicurean Red Hill. destinations Victoria | 131

Time to relax Unwind on the Mornington Peninsula with endless bay and surf beaches, golf courses, vineyards and relaxing day spas

T

he Mornington Peninsula is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend away, with temptations for every kind of traveller.

Spectacular coastal and inland scenery serves as a backdrop for tempting food and wine offerings, and activities that will satisfy everyone, from adrenaline junkies to those in need of a little R&R.

EAT & drink Montalto boasts a hatted restaurant, cafe, cellar door, wetlands, its own lake, 1500 olive trees and a 30-acre vineyard and sculpture garden (montalto.com.au).

Still in wine country, Green Olive at Red Hill serves tapas and wine based on produce grown on their picturesque farm (greenolive.com.au), while Ten Minutes by Tractor offers a contemporary menu and an award-winning wine list (tenminutesbytractor.com.au).

Sweet tooths should make a bee-line for Mornington Peninsula Chocolates to sample delicious sweets made on-site daily. Try ganache-filled dark chocolate flavoured with lime zest or white chocolate spiced with pink peppercorns (mpchocolates.com.au).

see & do One of the most dramatically situated public access golf courses in Victoria, Flinders Golf Club overlooks Bass Strait and Westernport Bay, with 18 holes of coastal links made all the more challenging due to buffeting winds and sea spray (flindersgolfclub.com.au). Adventurous travellers will love tree surfing at the Enchanted Adventure Garden, a high ropes adventure course made up of obstacles, bridges and zip-lines 3-10 metres above ground, and spanning nearly three acres (enchantedmaze.com.au). Afterwards, immerse yourself in the heated, soothing mineral waters of Peninsula Hot Springs and unwind with more than 20 bathing experiences in the social Bath House area, or luxurious treatments, baths and pampering in the Spa Dreaming Centre (peninsulahotsprings.com).

Meet talented winemakers, passionate growers and skilled artisan producers on a private MP Experience Wine, Food & Farmgate Tour (mpexperience.com.au), or head out on a wine tour with a difference with Horseback Winery Tours, where your four-legged steed will take care of transport so that you can enjoy tasting a range of delicious wines at local cellar doors – all levels welcome (horseback.com.au).

Mornington Peninsula | Out Of Town

On the road Taking in the hills and vineyards of the Yarra Valley, the green glades of the Dandenong Ranges and the coastal environs of Phillip Island and Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne’s South East Touring Triangle (SETT) is both scenic and action-packed. It links three beautiful regions surrounding Melbourne – the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island, and the Mornington Peninsula.

From Melbourne, the SETT heads to the Yarra Valley, famous for its abundance of wineries, with more than 70 tucked into picturesque countryside. Travellers can also see more than 200 native wildlife species including platypus, koalas, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos and wallabies up close at Healesville Sanctuary (zoo.org.au/healesville).

Not far away, in the fairytale-like forest of the Dandenong Ranges, swap your modern wheels for a stint aboard Puffing Billy, a meticulously restored steam train which travels through 25 kilometres of cool fern gullies (puffingbilly.com.au). The journey continues to Phillip Island where visitors can enjoy stunning beaches and watch the famous Penguin Parade (penguins.org.au).

Further along the route on the Mornington Peninsula there are more than 50 winery cellar doors specialising in superb pinot noir and chardonnay. Many of them also have outstanding restaurants, which showcase the region’s abundant fresh produce.

The Mornington Peninsula is home to the Peninsula Hot Springs, the only natural thermal mineral springs bathing and day spa facility in Australia (peninsulahotsprings.com).

The region is also renowned for outstanding golf courses, spectacular gardens and is a perfect place for aquatic adventures, including dolphin and seal swims and scuba diving around one of Victoria’s many shipwrecks. DV

YARRA VALLEY YARRA VALLEY MELBOURNE MELBOURNE

DANDENONG RANGES RANGES

PHILLIP ISLAND PHILLIP

OPPOSITE PAGE, clockwise from top: Salted caramel parfait at Montalto; Peninsula Hot Springs; Mornington Peninsula Chocolates; Flinders Golf Club; Puffing Billy; Mornington Peninsula vineyards.

YARRA VALLEY MELBOURNE

DANDENONG RANGES

PHILLIP ISLAND

destinations Victoria | 133

COSTAL CRAVING t’s a perfect autumn morning on Phillip Island.

The sun takes the edge off the crispness in the air and a gentle breeze dances on otherwise still water – all in all, perfect conditions for my very first Stand Up Paddle (SUP) class. I’m a little unsure of what to expect but have been assured I’m in excellent hands with Jonathon Bouillir, founder of Phillip Island’s SUP Wind Surf. Board-sports enthusiast, professional windsurfer and master instructor, Jonathon offers classes in Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), windsurfing and surfing suitable for participants with any level of water sport experience.

Jonathon guides our small group through the basics on dry land before we hit the water. I’m amazed at the skill required to master what looks to be a very simple activity. But with a little practice I’m soon gliding through the pristine waters just off Phillip Island, soaking up the blissful views all the way back to the mainland. We’re even lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins in the distance. What a start to the day!

Just under two hours’ drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to an amazing range of aquatic and coastal adventures, and I’m ticking off some of the highlights in an action-packed weekend.

Next up is a kayaking adventure with Pioneer Kayaking: three magical hours spent discovering the Cape Woolamai coastline. I’m blown away by the stunning natural beauty of the area. Despite the physical exertion, the tour leaves me feeling incredibly relaxed.

After an active day it’s time to recharge and fuel up, and the locals tell me the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is the best spot to do this. Located at San Remo Pier, the Co-op, which was established in 1948, is a local icon and boasts a stunning architecturally-designed family restaurant overlooking the foreshore. The Co-op operates several boats and trawlers which bring in a bounty of succulent seafood daily. I opt for fish and chips (hands down, the freshest I’ve ever had!), which I devour on the foreshore.

TEXT and image: destinations phillip island

I

Blessed with natural beauty and a wealth of outdoor activities, Phillip Island is an adventurer’s paradise

Phillip Island Experience | Out Of Town

Need to know Visitors can also check out the Co-op’s free Information and Education Centre where they’ll learn about the rich history of the Co-op and commercial fishing in the region, and can also witness pelican feeding at noon daily. I spend the evening at Clifftop boutique accommodation. With stunning views over Phillip Island’s coastline on one side and rolling farmland on the other, Clifftop is perched between sea and sky, and memorable to say the least.

I’m treated to exceptional hospitality and feel completely indulged in the luxurious surrounds including plush furnishings and a cosy wood fire.

The next morning I’m rested and ready for yet another outdoor adventure. This time it’s surfing with renowned local company, Outthere Outdoor Activities. Once again this is new territory for me so I’m feeling a little apprehensive as I make my way down to the beach. But I’m quickly reassured by Outthere owner, Ash Belsar who kicks off

With a little practice I’m soon gliding through the pristine waters just off Phillip Island, soaking up the blissful views back to the mainland the morning taking us through the essentials, making sure we have a complete understanding of everything from how to get the best out of our boards, to how to read and handle surf conditions.

Before long we’re in the water and the real fun starts!

The waves are small yet powerful enough to give me a kick along – perfect for our group of beginners. There’s definitely room for improvement but I was thrilled to stand up on a board for the first time and feel confident that I now have basic skills to build on.

I round out my action-packed weekend with a Wild Oceans EcoBoat Adventure with Phillip Island Nature Parks. We depart from the jetty at Cowes and head off on a high-speed tour of Phillip Island’s rugged coastline, venturing well beyond the island’s shores. The views of the cliffs at Summerland Peninsula are breathtaking and we’re captivated by the explosive blowhole at The Nobbies. We even stop by Seal Rocks to wave hello to the adorable fur seal colony, a real highlight for me.

It was a quick trip to this beautiful part of the world but I’m blown away by Phillip Island’s sheer natural beauty and endless array of outdoor activities. I’m sad to leave but head home feeling refreshed and certain I will return again very soon. DV

SUP Wind surf Offers classes in Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), windsurfing and surfing for any level of water sport experience.

Lessons are conducted in private or small groups and are tailored to individual goals, whether you’re looking to catch your first wave or refine your technique supwindsurf.com.au

Pioneer Kayaking Guided sea kayak tours exploring the Cape Woolamai coast, Rhyll wetlands, Churchill Island and the Cowes foreshore. pioneerkayaking.com.au

San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op A family restaurant, offering the freshest fish and chips, just-caught seafood for purchase and pelican feeding at noon daily, you’ll find the co-op on the foreshore next to the San Remo Pier. pelicanview.com.au

Outthere Outdoor Activities Experience an exciting range of ocean activities including surfing, kayaking, snorkelling and bodyboarding, ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. outthere.net.au

Wild Oceans EcoBoat Adventure Tours Operated by Phillip Island Nature Parks, tours run for 60 and 90 minutes and take in Seal Rocks, The Nobbies and Cat Bay Surfing Reserve. penguins.org.au

Clifftop Accommodation Clifftop offers accommodation offers a range of accommodation rates and special packages. clifftop.com.au For more information on Phillip Island and its attractions, check out visitphillipisland.com

destinations Victoria | 135

ISLAND LIFE Immerse yourself in Victoria’s wonders, from unique animals to beautiful beaches, rugged coastline and the pinnacle of world motorcycle racing

Phillip Island | Out Of Town

C

lose to Melbourne, explore an island where nature and wildlife abounds.

Get up close to little penguins, come face to face with snoozing koalas and cheer on your Grand Prix heroes as you savour every inch of Phillip Island, less than two hours from Melbourne. Afterwards, wind down with a stroll through the myriad cafes, pubs and restaurants.

EAT & drink Located in a refurbished butchery in the heart of Phillip Island, The Goat in the Boat serves up generous share plates inspired by its Greek heritage. Think housemade dips, saganaki, grilled haloumi and spanakopita (thegoatintheboat.com.au). Home to Phillip Island’s only handcrafted ales, Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar is a family-run restaurant serving fresh Modern Australian cuisine, with plenty of local seafood on offer (rustywaterbrewery.com.au). Soak up exceptional 180-degree views of the coastline at The Foreshore Bar and Restaurant. From light lunches to a la carte feasts, enjoy beautiful produce sourced from the island’s best growers and fishmongers (theforeshore.com.au).

see & do Witness the world-famous Penguin Parade and learn all about these magnificent critters and how you can help protect them and their environment (penguins.org.au).

Surfers and wannabes will love the Islantis Surf Experience, which celebrates the evolution of surfing culture in Australia (theislantissurfexperience.com.au).

If motorcycle racing is more your speed, you won’t want to miss the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. With Phillip Island’s stunning coastal scenery as its backdrop, this is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular racing destinations on the circuit. DV Little penguin

Resident koala

Woolamai Beach

One of Australia’s most spectacular Grand Prix circuits

destinations Victoria | 137

TEXT: VISITVICTORIA.COM, CASSY POLIMENI

Foreshore Bar and Restaurant

TEXT: TOURISM VICTORIA AND CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: shutterstock.com

Out Of Town | Heading to go here

138 | destinations Victoria

Geelong | Out Of Town

PORT OF CALL Victoria’s second largest city, Geelong is the gateway to Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine Peninsula, and a worthy destination in its own right

T

ake advantage of Geelong’s unique north-facing bay at fabulous waterfront restaurants and cafes, from Cunningham Pier to Eastern Beach, where you can take a dip in an art deco style pool or kick back in the promenade complex and restored pavilion. Grab a bite to eat on Pakington Street and visit delicatessens and wine merchants for some take home goodies.

If you arrive in January you’ll be able to witness the Festival of Sails – one of the oldest sporting events in Victoria and the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest annual keel boat regatta (festivalofsails.com.au). In February, Pakington Street is overtaken by Pako Festa, a popular community arts festival celebrating Geelong’s cultural diversity via food, dancing, workshops, exhibitions, craft displays and entertainment (pakofesta.com.au).

Discover a wealth of public art works along the waterfront, from the whimsical Baywalk Bollards to the iconic Shark Fins and Cargo Boxes. The sculptured bollards chronicle characters from the city’s past and present, including young ladies in neck-to-knee bathing costumes, 1930s lifesavers, traditional Aussie families and jaunty sailors. For an inside look at the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene, check out Boom Gallery in the industrial area of Geelong, a complex that houses, galleries, workshops, studios and an event space (boomgallery.com.au).

Explore the city’s 100 National Trust-listed buildings, delve into the region’s history at the National Wool Museum, and take the kids for a ride on the historic wooden carousel, one of only 200 in operation around the world. Art lovers will enjoy the outstanding collection of Australian paintings, sculpture and decorative arts at the Geelong Art Gallery, including Frederick McCubbin’s celebrated work A Bush Burial from 1890.

If you’re staying in town, nominate a designated driver and spend a day or two exploring the many cellar doors at vineyards across the Geelong wine region, including Bannockburn Vineyards, Jack Rabbit Vineyard and Leura Park Estate (winegeelong.com.au). DV

Don’t miss Werribee sits roughly halfway between Melbourne and Geelong, just over the West Gate Bridge from Melbourne’s CBD. It’s an ideal stopover for animal lovers, plane spotters and history buffs.

Experience an African safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo and come face to face with lions, cheetahs, hippos and giraffes, or go behind the scenes for a thrilling Wild Encounter (zoo.org.au/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo).

Check out the huge collection of military aircraft at RAAF Museum in Point Cook (airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum), or step back in time at Werribee Mansion with its Italianate-style architecture and Victorian interiors. Wander 10 hectares of formal gardens surrounding the mansion and splash out on a treatment or overnight stay at the Mansion Hotel and Spa (K Road, Werribee).

THIS PAGE: Geelong coast at dawn. OPPOSITE: One of the 104 colourful bollards that line Geelong’s foreshore, chronicling the city’s past.

A walk on the wild side

A

popular tourist attraction for both locals and international visitors, Great Ocean Road has long held a special place in nature lovers’ hearts due to its epic scenery and proximity to Melbourne.

The Great Ocean Walk is a one-way, long-distance hike shadowing the iconic road and taking in the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks – a total of 101 kilometres.

As a fairly active city slicker, I was excited by the prospect of walking the Great Ocean Road. After all, I clock up a fair chunk of time on the cross-trainer – how different could a stroll in the great outdoors be?

As it turns out, quite different. We completed a snippet of the walk, covering 25.5 kilometres over a two-day period. After consulting with our helpful guide Mark Kininmonth, we loaded up on protective gear (workout clothing, weatherproof jacket, jumper, hat, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear and socks), before hitting the trail in the recommended east to west direction, to maximise views and provide the best gradient to prevent potential injuries.

Day one was a hike from Parker Inlet to Aire River, starting out along the water’s edge, following rock shelves and beaches around Point Franklin before hitting the inland trail through manna gums to the Cape Otway Lightstation. We kicked off our walk in near perfect weather, a balmy 21 degrees, and traipsed through fairly flat terrain, taking in heavenly mountain scenery and epic clifftop views. As avid gym goers, we kept up a fairly quick pace but that could also have also been attributed to the fear of running into a stray snake or wildcat – a rare occurrence we’re told, but nevertheless!

By the time we reached the Lightstation, we had worked up a sweat (and an appetite) so we took a break and discovered more about Australia’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse. A few tight staircases and breathtaking ocean views later, we deduced the average height in the 1800s must have been much shorter than now, as my 5’11 frame had to bend at every corner to fit through. The lighthouse is a vantage point for whale watching from winter to spring, when migrating whales swim very close to the shore.

IMAGE: visions of victoria

One of the world’s most scenic drives, Great Ocean Road is also heaven for hikers. Manveen Maan laces up her walking shoes

Great Ocean Road Experience | Out Of Town

The next section of the trail, from the lighthouse to Aire River, winds its way through wind-sculpted landscapes of sand dunes, coastal scrubland and magnificent calcified cliffs. We kept our eyes peeled along the way for koalas, but had to make do with brightly coloured parrots and cockatoos, and furry possums. Five hours later, we heard the welcoming sounds of the river – we made it! But not without one last dash of adventure. Heavy tides had caused the river to rise, flooding the last 200 metres of the trail, including the exit point. Runners and socks in hand, we rolled up our tights and victoriously splashed our way through. Success!

The next day’s itinerary covered Shelley Beach to Apollo Bay, going against the recommended east to west direction for the sake of convenience, but with scenery that was just as captivating. We were particularly pleased with the wide variety of terrain we experienced – from lush jungle landscapes, to open beach walks and rocky waterside treks.

As we trekked, we couldn’t help but marvel at the majestic trees and thick vegetation, so different from the flat farmland we wandered through the day before. The trail then hit low forest, allowing us glimpses of deep blue sea. We stopped for water breaks at conveniently placed rest benches, and took in the sweeping views along the coast. At several points along the trail you have the option of continuing along the beaches or rock platforms at low tide or following the inland trail – if time and tide permit, I recommend trying all three. Look out for the yellow triangle flag markers that indicate where to enter and exit the beach sections.

We soon reached the beachside town of Marengo, home to a colony of Australian Fur Seals who hang out on rocks in the bay. A few kilometres later, we cruised into Apollo Bay beach, ending our walk with a wellearned drink at a local favourite, the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse (greatoceanroadbrewhouse.com.au).

Kicking back, we reflect on our time on the trail.

Each walk day was a unique experience, and it’s safe to say I’ll be back for more. DV

Need to know Walks are graded according to difficulty, but a general level of fitness is recommended. Walk91 provides self-guided and guided tours, including maps and a packed lunch. You will need to bring your own drinking water, and can opt to camp or stay in local accommodation.

For more information, visit walk91.com.au

MAIN IMAGE: Spectacular views abound along the Great Ocean Walk trail.

THIS PAGE: The walk takes in a variety of terrain. destinations Victoria | 141

Round the twist Experience one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, rich with natural wonders, thrilling adventures and gourmet fare

EAT & drink Set high in the Otways above Great Ocean Road, Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant dishes up contemporary cuisine with Southern European and Middle Eastern influences and a focus on fresh seafood (chriss.com.au). A table at Gladioli may be hard to come by, but it’s well worth the effort. The restaurant has put tiny Inverleigh on the foodie map with two hats in The Age Good Food Guide (gladiolirestaurant.com.au), while the Merrijig Kitchen in Port Fairy is Victoria’s oldest inn and makes for a memorable gourmet experience, with a French-inspired menu that changes daily and features local seasonal produce (merrijiginn.com).

Follow the Otway Harvest Trail to discover the best fresh produce at farm gates and providores, wineries and breweries. Enjoy meals and views along the trail or stock up on local riches to take back home (otwayharvesttrail.org.au) Wet your whistle at Blackman’s Brewery in Torquay (blackmansbrewery.com.au), or winery, cidery and brewery Otway Estate in the magnificent Otway Ranges (otwayestate.com.au). For something a little stronger, try award winning single malt whisky, vodka and schnapps at Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, where you can meet the distiller and learn about the area’s formerly illicit spirit trade (timboondistillery.com.au).

Blackmans Brewery

Merrijig Inn

see & do Explore local museums dedicated to the region’s maritime history, including award winning Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum (flagstaffhill.com), and the Portland Maritime Museum, where you can explore treasures rescued from shipwrecks.

Join in the fun at cultural events all year round, from literary and music festivals to art exhibitions and historical events. Music fans will want to plan ahead and time their visit to coincide with the famous Port Fairy Folk Festival (portfairyfolkfestival.com), or the Lorne Festival of Performing Arts (lorneartsfestival.com.au).

Nature lovers will have plenty of opportunities to see koalas, kangaroos and emus at a wildlife haven nestled inside an extinct volcano (towerhill.org.au), take a canoe trip at dawn or dusk to view wild platypus on a mountain lake in the Otway Ranges, or spot koalas at Kennett River.

There are a number of excellent learn-to-surf schools along the coast and most students find themselves standing on a board by the end of a two-hour session. Get started with waves ideal for beginners at Torquay, Anglesea, Fairhaven and Lorne, while experienced surfers will want to make a beeline for Bells Beach, Winki Pop and Southside.

Logans Beach

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

TEXT: VISITVICTORIA.COM AND CASSY POLIMENI

B

est known for the towering 12 Apostles and its iconic surf breaks, Great Ocean Road is also a great place to try your hand scuba diving or sea kayaking, or discover arts, cultural and heritage attractions. Head out on spectacular walks, meet native wildlife, and explore seaside villages. Along the way, enjoy fine dining with restaurants and providores galore, and wineries, breweries and distilleries too.

Great Ocean Road | Out Of Town

On the road

MELBOURNE TORQUAY

PORT FAIRY

LORNE APOLLO BAY

This self-paced touring route is a great way to experience one of Victoria’s most scenic drives, the mighty Great Ocean Road. Start with a leisurely 90-minute drive from Melbourne to Torquay, the official beginning of the Great Ocean Road. Dose up on surf culture at Surfworld before visiting Bell’s Beach, host of the annual Rip Curl Pro (surfworld.com.au).

Magnificent coastal views dominate the next 30 kilometres as you head towards Lorne, the perfect spot to stop for lunch – fish and chips on the beach is a must. Another twenty minutes winding along the coastal road will bring you to Kennett River and its famous koala locals. As you advance towards Apollo Bay, take time to stop at clifftop lookouts and soak up incredible views, or take a stroll along the beach.

From Apollo Bay, head into lush Otway National Park, and turn off to the Cape Otway light station, the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia, before returning to Apollo Bay for the night.

After a night’s rest, follow Great Ocean Road into the lush rainforest of the Otway National Park and turn off to the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk, an easy hour’s drive. Experience an adrenaline-pumping zip-line tour or take to the treetop canopy walkway, the longest and tallest of its type in the world (otwayflytreetopadventures.com).

Back on the road, get your camera ready for the spectacular coastline leading to Port Campbell and the famous 12 Apostles, a group of magnificent rock stacks rising up from the Southern Ocean.

Descend all 86 of the Gibson Steps to the wild beach below, or take to the skies on a helicopter tour (12apostleshelicopters.com.au).

Continue west to Warrnambool and Logans Beach where you can spot southern right and blue whales in season. From there, head to Port Fairy and keep an eye out for koalas, emus, kangaroos and waterbirds on myriad walking tracks. Visit the Worn Gundidj Visitor Centre to find out more about the reserve’s Aboriginal and geological history.

After an overnight stop in Port Fairy, the choice is yours – head back to Melbourne or, if the road is still calling, take the Great Southern Touring Route north to the Grampians (worngundidj.org.au). DV

IMAGES CLOCKWISE: MELBOURNE TORQUAY

PORT FAIRY

LORNE APOLLO BAY

destinations Victoria | 143

Mountain oasis

TEXT: VISITVICTORIA.COM, CASSY POLIMENI AND THE ROYAL MAIL HOTEL

If you’re partial to fine food and the great outdoors, this picturesque region won’t disappoint

The Grampians | Out Of Town

J

ust 90 minutes from Melbourne, take a walk in the Grampians and experience lush scenery, lively wildlife, and welcoming locals. Outdoor adventurers can get the adrenaline pumping in rugged surrounds, food and wine buffs can warm up in cellar doors and restaurants with breathtaking views, and art aficionados will delight in inspiring gallery spaces. There’s something for everyone in the Grampians.

EAT & drink Awarded two hats by The Age Good Food Guide in 2015 and 2016, the Royal Mail Hotel Dining Room offers nature-based cuisine focusing on high quality, locally sourced produce, much of it from their own kitchen garden. Dishes are accompanied by wines from the Royal Mail Hotel’s award-winning collection, curated over the past 40 years. Try the set menu or treat yourself to the five to eight course chef’s tasting menu with matched wines served on Friday and Saturday nights (royalmail.com.au). If you’re in the mood for a more casual dining experience, enjoy lunch or dinner at the Parker Street Project, where you’ll be treated to seasonal comfort food, local and international wines, and a range of boutique beers and ciders (parkerstproject.com.au).

Nestled in the heart of The Grampians National Park, The Views Café, Bar & Restaurant makes a great pit stop at any time of day, and keep an eye out for the local wildlife – kangaroos have been known to come in for a closer look as you eat! Tuck into a Bush Tasting Plate with kangaroo and emu fillet, crocodile tail and lightly-grilled prawns, or opt for classic pub fare like Scotch fillet, red wine and rosemary lamb shanks or a chicken parma. Rooms are available at the attached motel, so you can rest up before hitting the road again (grampiansmotel.com.au).

Degustation dishes at The Royal Mail Hotel

see & do Adventurers will love exploring the hiking trails that criss-cross The Grampians National Park. Walk or hike to its peaks and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views and impressive waterfalls. From August to October spring casts a spell on the Grampians with spectacular wildflower displays. Keep an eye out for local wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, emus and wedge-tailed eagles, and don’t miss your chance to see Aboriginal rock art paintings in shelters throughout the Grampians, including Billimina, Gulgurn Manja and Manja shelters.

Brambruk – The National Park and Cultural Centre is the longest running Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Australia, and 100 per cent owned and operated by Aboriginal people.

Located in Halls Gap, it is the perfect place to experience Australia’s native flora and fauna and get an insight into Aboriginal culture. Experience multimedia shows, art exhibitions, cultural talks and activities including traditional dance, basket weaving, painting and boomerang throwing (brambuk.com.au).

Linger longer in the Grampians with a refreshing yoga retreat at Griffins Hill. Set within six acres of landscaped gardens and surrounded by panoramic views of the Southern Grampians, enjoy yoga and relaxation supported by organic vegetarian meals. Take a one- or two-day yoga workshop or hunker down for a seven-day retreat – your mind and body will thank you (griffinshill.com.au). DV The Grampians National Park

Keep an eye out for local wildlife

Vegetarian fare at Griffins Hill yoga retreat

destinations Victoria | 145

Music that

moves

Let the music move you as you travel through the historic streets of Bendigo on the one and only Blues Tram

I

f you’re a tram spotter, history buff or simply a fan of the blues, we’ve found an attraction you won’t want to miss. The Bendigo Blues Tram combines two of the city’s richest attractions – its historic trams and sublime musical talent. Established in 2012, it is an offshoot of the Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival, both of which were dreamed up by drummer and blues enthusiast Colin Thompson.

“What I love about our festival is the sense of community that brought it together and keeps it going,” Thompson says.

“I love being able to share wonderful new acts with our audiences every year, and seeing more and more people come to Bendigo and walk away with a smile on their dial.”

Thompson is responsible for booking the talent for the Festival and the Blues Tram, and for promoting both events, which he does with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers. While it began life as just another venue on the festival program, the Blues Tram has since taken on a life of its own as a regular venue throughout the year.

“We were well aware of the famous Blues Train in Queenscliff, and we thought it’d be mad not to try using the vintage trams we have running as a tourist attraction in Bendigo to do something similar. It’s a little more subdued than the Blues Train, which I understand can get a bit wild. On the Blues Tram, it’s all about quietly enjoying an afternoon of fine music on a beautifully restored vintage tram, and taking in the views of historical architecture and gorgeous gardens of Bendigo’s CBD. “The artists we host on the Blues Tram are all involved in the festival itself and we always try to mix up emerging artists with more experienced and established artists, visiting acts with local acts, male artists with female, and traditional blues with singer/songwriter types.”

A full trip on the Blues Tram takes just over two hours and includes two live acts. Passengers can enjoy a relaxed drink before the tram’s departure from the Central Deborah Goldmine, before cruising the streets of Bendigo, taking a pit stop at the Joss House, then heading back towards the mine. Local wines and craft beers, as well as soft drinks and snacks, are for sale on board.

“We’re blessed that the punters who buy tickets to the

tram want to hear the music – every note and every word – so it’s not like a party crowd where some people are boisterous to the point of drowning out the music. The respect shown by the audience to the musicians means that the artists end up enjoying the gig just as much the punters, as they get a chance to make a true connection along the way.”

Thompson has been on board every Blues Tram, except when he is busy elsewhere with the festival, and has a few favourite moments.

“On a very early Blues Tram, before we’d nutted out the technicalities, we had a power failure and the on board PA was offline. Our artist Mike Elrington was halfway through his set and kept playing acoustically. The tram noise was hard to compete with, so he invited the previous act to join him, which led to an impromptu jam between Josh Owen (one of Australia’s finest guitarists), and Mike (one of the Aussie blues scene’s most powerful performers).

The whole tram full of punters were clapping along and loving every moment.

I love being able to share wonderful new acts with our audiences every year, and seeing more and more people come to Bendigo and walk away with a smile on their dial.

“Another stand-out for me was when Brisbane singer/ songwriter Hailey Calvert sang a beautiful song she’d written for her recently departed grandfather and how hard it must have been for him in the years since his wife had passed away. Hailey’s flawless and heart-wrenching performance gave us all chills and even had a couple of passengers in silent tears. Apart from Hailey’s sweet voice, her gentle guitar playing and the quiet rumble of the tram’s motor idling under the floorboards, you could have heard a pin drop.

“We’re always confident that, even if the blues isn’t your first choice of musical genre, you’ll still find the experience rewarding and enjoyable. We haven’t let anyone down yet.” DV

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: TOURISM BENDIGO AND COURTESY OF COLIN THOMPSON

Goldfields Experience | Out Of Town

Need to know In 2017 the Blues Tram will be taking passengers on Saturday January 21, March 4, May 27, July 8, August 19, September 16 and October 21, as well as throughout the festival weekend from November 10-12 (bendigobluesandroots.com.au). You can also take part in Blues Tram and Underground Banquet events as part of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival in March and April.

For more information or to book, visit bendigotourism.com or contact the Visitor Centre on 1800 813 513.

destinations Victoria | 147

Discover the riches of the Goldfields in impressive art galleries, fascinating shops and museums, boutique wineries and world-class eateries

TEXT: cASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.com / IMAGES: shutterstock.com, visions of victoria

Fields of gold

Goldfields | Out Of Town

V

ictoria’s Goldfields offer a wealth of experiences. From viewing renowned art at some of Australia’s best regional galleries, to retail therapy and rugged bush adventures on foot or mountain bike.

Then there are quaint villages to explore, tempting fresh food and boutique wines. What are you waiting for?

EAT & drink The goldfields have high-end cuisine covered. Take a seat at The Good Table in Castlemaine for share plates of regional Italian and Spanish dishes made from highquality local produce (thegoodtable.com.au). Also in Castlemaine, and housed in the town’s original fire station, The Public Inn has an impressive barrel wall and equally tantalising menu (publicinn.com.au). Both restaurants received one hat in The Age Good Food Guide in 2016. You’ll also find mouthwatering baked goods (facebook.com/ johnnybakercastlemaine) and authentic Viennese coffee house, Das Kaffeehaus (coffeebasics.com).

In Ballarat enjoy wine, Spanish tapas and deli treats at Meigas (facebook.com/cafemeigas), or try popular dishes with a native twist at Ballarat’s Saltbush Kitchen, where you can also purchase local bush foods and get tips on how to use them (saltbushkitchen.com.au).

In Bendigo, treat yourself to the ‘Roaming’ (popular/local) or ‘Banquet’ menu at Masons of Bendigo. Not far away, Percy and Percy is a Melbourne-style cafe housed in a former Bendigo grocery (facebook.com/PercyAndPercy).

There are also a host of wineries that oenophiles won’t want to miss, including Heathcote Winery, Balgownie Estate and Waterwheel Vineyards, to name just a few.

see & do One of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions, Sovereign Hill brings the excitement of the 1850s gold rush to life with street theatre, costumed characters, and the chance to pan for gold (sovereignhill.com.au). Also in Ballarat, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (MADE) uses the latest interactive technology to bring the history of democracy to life (made.org). In Castlemaine catch a gig, grab a bite, or take a ghost tour at Old Castlemaine Gaol (oldcastlemainegoal.com.au).

The Mill Castlemaine is an inviting hub of markets, artisans and providores where you can easily while away a whole weekend (millcastlemaine.com.au), while art lovers will delight in Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery, the Art Gallery of Ballarat (artgalleryofballarat.com.au), Bendigo Art Gallery (bendigoartgallery.com.au) and the magnificent Castlemaine Art Gallery & Historical Museum (castlemainegallery.com). You’ll also find quaint villages packed with quirky stores, arts and crafts, engaging theatre and natural wonders. Visit the Goldfields, and leave a little richer. DV

Balgownie Estate winery Sovereign Hill

Panning for gold

The Good Table

Bendigo Art Gallery

destinations Victoria | 149

Body & Soul Best known as a spa town, Daylesford has plenty more to offer when it comes to progressing on your journey to wellness

150 | destinations Victoria

text: HOLLY CLARK / IMAGE courtesy of DAYLESFORD AND MACEDON RANGES TOURISM

Out Of Town | Heading to go here

Daylesford Experience | Out Of Town

F

rom spirituality and art, to serene gardens and soul food, there are many paths to wellness, but the goal remains the same: achieving an overall sense of wellbeing.

On a recent trip to Daylesford, I discovered a myriad of ways to achieve this much-desired state, and my journey began with the very essence of this magical area – natural mineral water.

There are more than 140 natural mineral water springs in Central Victoria and most of these are located in the area surrounding Kyneton, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, making this the largest concentration of natural mineral water springs in Australia. Two easily accessible local mineral springs are the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve and Central Springs Reserves at Lake Daylesford.

The abundance of natural mineral water explains why the region has long been regarded as a special place of healing, the perfect destination to relax the mind, soothe the body and nurture the soul.

Daylesford is a haven for health and wellbeing, with more than 200 types of wellness therapies and treatments available. The best way to choose is simply to follow the signs for massages and spa treatments, yoga, meditation, tai chi, and more alternative therapies – including reiki, shiatsu, Bowen therapy and reflexology to name a few.

In an area boasting the highest concentration of massage therapists in the southern hemisphere, the biggest stress is deciding which one to visit first.

Therapies and natural springs are just the start of my wellness journey in Daylesford. The wondrous landscape, art galleries and gorgeous gardens take me to a different world where I’m ready to rediscover that mind, body and spirit balance.

After a morning of treatments, I head out to nearby Mount Franklin. Its volcanic origins are apparent as I head off the main road and drive through the huge conifers and deciduous trees on the way to the crater, and I can’t help but recall the mystery of the 90s TV show Twin Peaks. Reaching the crater, the area clears (as does my imagination) to reveal a reserve perfect for camping, picnics, or as a starting point from which to explore the region on foot or bike, or to indulge in some flora and fauna spotting.

As an avid gardener and a lover of serenity, the gardens around Daylesford are a delightful surprise.

Don’t miss is Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, which includes the funky cafe, Wombat Hill House.

Established in the 1860s by Baron Ferdinand

Von Mueller (who was also the director of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens), the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens are regarded as one of Victoria’s finest regional destination gardens. Many spots provide wonderful views over Daylesford and the surrounding volcanic plains.

After being immersed in the gracious 19th century character of these gardens and wandering through avenues of giant conifers and stately elms, I drop into Wombat Hill House (wombathillhouse.com.au).

An original 1940s garden caretaker’s cottage resurrected by local identity Alla Wolf-Tasker, this cafe provides the perfect setting to indulge in delicious homemade crumpets.

In an area boasting the highest concentration of massage therapists in the southern hemisphere, the biggest stress is deciding which one to visit first.

The final part of my journey to wellness is dedicated to nurturing my soul. Wandering through an art gallery and letting the artist take me to another place is one of my favourite ways to unwind, and Daylesford’s burgeoning arts scene allows plenty of opportunities to step into the art zone by visiting the many independent galleries and artist-run spaces where you can chat to the makers and get an insight into their creative process. I recommend visiting Convent Gallery (conventgallery.com.au), Bromley & Co (bromleyandco.com), Bokeh (bokehdaylesford.com), and Artedeco (artedeco.com.au).

If only I had the time to take one of the many workshops or classes in the area, I know I’d soon feel part of this thriving artistic scene. But I’ll save that for next time. DV

main image: Daylesford’s Convent Gallery.

destinations Victoria | 151

OUT & ABOUT | Spa Country

Daylesford and

Macedon Ranges Invigorate your mind and body and reignite your imagination amid spectacular forests and historic villages

I

n this picturesque region of mountain ranges and natural mineral springs, restore balance and relax at day spas and wellness retreats, sample exquisite food and wine at local restaurants and wineries, or wander historic streetscapes, markets and boutiques brimming with art, craft and antique treasures.

EAT & drink For a little luxury, you can’t beat The Lakehouse, a two hat restaurant on the shores of Lake Daylesford, with accommodation and its own spa attached. Dine on cutting edge, seasonal food, with almost everything made on site, from the house-baked breads to the extensive charcuterie range (lakehouse.com.au).

Mercato is also worth a visit, for a creative Australian degustation menu served in a converted 1860s cottage (mercatorestaurant.com.au), while Sault offers seasonal modern Australian dishes and tapas in a scenic homestead flanked by lavender fields (sault.com.au).

For something more casual, try Daylesford’s oldest pub, The Farmers Arms (thefarmersarms.com.au), or venture into boutique restaurant and wine bar The Perfect Drop for live jazz in the bar, or seasonal fare served on the terrace (theperfectdrop.com).

The Argus Dining Room at Peppers Springs Retreat in nearby Hepburn Springs is dedicated to regional produce, with a menu consisting of food grown onsite in the Argus Kitchen garden and rare breed beef and lamb from Birch Estate in Smeaton (theargusdiningroom.com.au).

see & do Historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been welcoming visitors to soak in its healing mineral waters since 1895.

Enjoy communal bathing in heated pools or indulge in hydrotherapies, spa couches, an aroma steam room, saltwater therapy pools and private mineral baths, as well as a dedicated onsite day spa (hepburnbathhouse.com).

A former Catholic boarding school, these days Daylesford’s Convent Gallery is home to seven galleries featuring work by over 100 local, national and international artists. Purchase jewellery, fashion and unique gifts at the onsite store or indulge in world-class fare at the Mediterranean cafe, or a few drinks at the stylish lounge bar (conventgallery.com.au). Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm makes for an idyllic day trip, incorporating gardens, lavender fields, olive and chestnut groves and La Trattoria cafe where visitors can dine al fresco and enjoy a range of lavender infused dishes (lavandula.com.au). DV

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

Aperitivo at The Lakehouse Convent Gallery Hepburn Springs

The Lakehouse

152 | destinations Victoria

River Life | Out Of Town

Murray magic

S

Reconnect with nature and share the best of outdoor living amid the sunny climes of this vibrant river region

plash around on sandy river beaches, wander through towering red gum forests, or take a cruise downriver on a paddle steamer or canoe. Kick up your heels at music, food and wine festivals all yearround, delve into the region’s rich pioneer history, or experience the fairways of some the country’s finest golf courses.

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM.AU / IMAGES: shutterstock.com, visions of victoria

EAT & drink Drop by for a tasting or settle in for a sensational lunch at Trentham Estate, a family-owned boutique winery nestled on the picturesque banks of the Murray River, just 15 minutes from Mildura. For a more casual dining experience, share a fully-catered ‘cook-your-own’ barbecue lunch with family or friends (trenthamestate.com.au).

Multi-award winning American Hotel is Echuca Moama’s oldest pub, with hearty food and an extensive wine list (americanhotelechuca.com.au).

The Murray region is a fertile oasis for fresh produce.

At Simply Tomatoes take a tour, meet the menagerie of woolly sheep in residence, and enjoy lunch or morning tea in the gorgeous 1890s homestead gardens (simplytomatoes.com.au). Rich Glen Estate is a family owned and operated olive grove located in Yarrawonga, stocking fresh and flavoursome olive oil and more at their farm gate store (richglenoliveoil.com). For sweet tooths with a conscience, Mildura Chocolate Company stocks goodies like handmade chocolate, Murray Gourmet Salt, and Australian Premium Dried Fruits, and provides employment for locals experiencing disability or disadvantage (mildurachocolatecompany.com.au).

see & do Remains of the earliest known humans to inhabit the Australian continent have been found in Mungo National Park, dating back nearly 40,000 years. The park’s red, sandy country is home to an array of animals, birds and plant life, including wedge-tailed eagles and red kangaroos, and there’s a Visitor Centre located off Arumpo Road to point you in the right direction (visitmungo.com.au).

History buffs will love the historic Port of Echuca precinct.

It’s home to Australia’s largest fleet of steam-driven paddle steamers, and still operates much the same as it did in the 1860s. Admission includes an hour-long guided tour, along with all day access to the site’s museum and attractions (portofechuca.org.au).

Golfers will delight in the picturesque course at Murray Downs Golf & Country Club, consistently voted one of the top resort courses around Australia. Tee off with river gums forming a magnificent backdrop, signature holes you will remember, and a range of facilities to match its reputation, including a cafe, bistro, bingo, poker and rock n’roll. DV

American Hotel, Echuca

Murray Downs Golf Course

Mungo National Park

Trentham Estate Winery

destinations Victoria | 153

great

outdoors Gippsland’s rugged terrain and untouched beauty make it a major drawcard for outdoor enthusiasts, whatever the season

TEXT: CASSY POLIMENI AND VISITVICTORIA.COM / IMAGES COURTESY DESTINATION GIPPSLAND

The

Gippsland Experience | Out Of Town

E

njoy a day of snow play at Melbourne’s closest winter playgrounds, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort or Mt Baw Baw Alpine Village.

Just 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne, Lake Mountain is the city’s most accessible alpine area, while Mt Baw Baw Alpine village is just over two and half hours from the centre of Melbourne, and the city’s closest downhill ski resort.

MT BAW BAW Enjoy a unique alpine village experience with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere at Mt Baw Baw, where you will find a range of snow play areas, toboggan runs and plenty of beginner terrain perfect for learning to ski and snowboard on.

The experienced Snow Sports Team can provide you with ample guidance and support to ensure that you learn and improve in a safe environment, and have fun along the way. Lessons are available for everyone from toddlers to adults, beginner to advanced.

With over 35 hectares of groomed runs, seven ski lifts, two snow play areas, 10 kilometres of cross-country trails and unlimited terrain to explore, days of adventure are assured. You can also stay right on the mountain, all the better to hit the slopes again promptly the next day!

Accommodation ranges from traditional ski lodges to cosy cabins nestled among snow gums. Rest your weary limbs and refuel at the much-loved Village Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious meals – created using regional produce – accompanied by spectacular views stretching over out over the LaTrobe Valley below.

Looking for a little more adventure? Dogsledding at Mt. Baw Baw is unlike anything you have experienced before. There are six tours available, ensuring that even regular visitors will enjoy a new experience each time.

Meet retired sled dogs on a Powder Pub Snow Shoe Tour, or jump in the sled for a Village Tour, ideal for all ages. The Baw Baw Back Country Tour takes in the peaceful countryside over one glorious hour in the sled, while the Summit Sunset Tour is a little longer and includes a complimentary glass of wine as you watch the sunset – perfect for lovers! For more information, or to book, visit the website (howlinghuskys.com.au).

LAKE MOUNTAIN Young families and those who are new to the snow will love Lake Mountain, which boasts plenty of fun activities to suit the whole family. Choose from tobogganing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

If you simply want to give the kids (or yourself!) their

first snow experience, head to the Snowman’s Village where you can build snowman or take part in a snowball throwing challenge.

Conditions are excellent for snow play, thanks to Victoria’s natural snowfall complemented by state-of-the-art snowmaking machines. The mountain’s alpine resort is the only one in Australia that can produce snow at temperatures of up to 25 degrees thanks to superior snow making machines, so the mountain remains draped in a blanket of white right through the winter season, regardless of the weather.

WARMING UP When the snow melts, the fun continues with a range of walks, rides and festivals on offer throughout the warmer months.

The Australian Adventure Festival (October 21–23) features three days of mountain biking, trail running, paddling and adventure racing, over distances ranging from 20–100 kilometres. Located in East Gippsland, the courses showcase the region’s coastline, lakes district and National Parks. Activities such as the Kids Mountain Bike and Treasure Hunt Paddle will keep spectators of all ages occupied (adventurefestival.com).

Summit Survivor (12 November) is the most obstacle-dense course in Victoria, featuring 36 obstacles across five kilometres of bushy terrain in The Summit Adventure Park, Trafalgar East.

Profits go towards youth leadership projects (summitsurvivor.com.au).

Those who prefer to get around on two wheels will want to download Destination Gippsland’s app, ‘Inspiring Gippsland Rides’, a selection of 35 cycling routes that take in the best of Gippsland by bike, from family-friendly rail trails to mountain bike tracks and road cycling routes. Featured rides come complete with a difficulty rating, distance, brief description and maps, making it easy for riders of all levels to choose the route that bests suits them.

‘Inspiring Gippsland Rides’ and ‘Inspiring Gippsland Walks’ are available for download from the Destination Gippsland website (destinationgippsland.com.au).DV

Need to know A range of Mt Baw Baw packages are available for singles, couples, families and groups, from beginner to advanced. mountbawbaw.com.au Family Snow Play Packages for Lake Mountain can be purchased in advance and include vehicle entry, toboggan hire and a lunch voucher for the whole family. lakemountainresort.com.au

THIS PAGE: Hone your skills with lessons from the Snow Sports Team.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Mt Baw Baw’s dogsledding tours are suitable for all ages.

destinations Victoria | 155

Natural splendour With a rich history and vibrant landscape, the vast Gippsland region is ripe for exploring

EAT & drink Located on an idyllic hilltop north of Officer, D’Angelo Estate Winery is surrounded by picturesque vineyards with a stunning coastal outlook. Enjoy a light lunch on weekends, and sample or purchase an extensive range of wines, and ciders made from locally sourced apples, pears and strawberries (dangelowines.com.au).

Built in 1926, Yarragon Hotel is situated in the main retail hub of Yarragon Village, well known for its unique retail stores, antique shops and galleries. The Hotel dining room has a sterling reputation for hearty pub fare, from sliders and tasting platters to fish and chips, curries and steak (yarragonhotel.com.au).

Sale’s Mister Raymond is a stylish cafe/bistro, which has fast become a go-to brunch destination with succinct but on-point menus that rival inner-city cafe fare. Friday is pizza night, which is often complemented by live music (268-270 Raymond Street, Sale).

see & do Art lovers will find plenty to capture their imaginations in Gippsland. East Gippsland Art Gallery celebrates the unique artistic spirit of the region through a dynamic program incorporating paintings, drawings, mixed media, prints and 3D works (eastgippslandartgallery.org.au).

Latrobe Regional Gallery houses eight gallery spaces and a sculpture courtyard showcasing an ever-changing program of curated and travelling exhibitions and a permanent collection (latroberegionalgallery.com), while ArtSpace Wonthaggi is a community non-profit gallery for regional artists and craftspeople, with regular exhibitions and monthly theme displays (artspacewonthaggi.com.au).

Nature lovers, can head to the southernmost tip of mainland Australia and immerse themselves in the mountains, forest and sweeping coastlines of Wilsons Promontory National Park, where you can hike, camp, caravan or enjoy outstanding diving in the surrounding marine park (parkweb.vic.gov.au).

One of Gippsland’s spectacular beaches

D’Angelo Winery

Breakfast dish at Mister Raymond

East Gippsland Art Gallery (artist: Bradley Brown)

VISITVICTORIA.COM, CASSY POLIMENI, D’ANGELO ESTATE, YARRAGON HOTEL AND PARKS VICTORIA

E

njoy an inspiring getaway at some of Victoria’s most spectacular national parks, lakes and waterways. Walk, ride, swim or ski across changing landscapes, wander through coastal villages and view artworks in country galleries. Indulge in regional delicacies, sample local brews and fine wines, and delve into the region’s rich history and Indigenous heritage.

Gippsland | Out Of Town

On the road Renowned for its natural beauty, this road trip through West Gippsland is ideal for those who want to experience vast landscapes and small town life. The scenic West Gippsland Hinterland Drive winds its way through magnificent and diverse landscapes. The circular route – which takes approximately five hours driving time – begins in Melbourne and passes through the Yarra Ranges to the small towns of Powelltown and Noojee in Gippsland. It then travels across to the summit of Mount Baw Baw, taking in the sub-Alpine villages of Walhalla, Rawson and Erica and passing through Moe and Yarragon before returning to Melbourne.

The drive highlights West Gippsland’s natural attractions, including giant mountain ash trees and waterfalls, as well as the region’s local food options and boutique wineries.

Take a break from the road and soak up the unrivalled splendour of West Gippsland on walks that take in lush valleys, giant trees, country pastures and gold rush history.

For the adventurous, there are plenty of snow activities in winter or camping, four-wheel driving, paintballing, gold panning or fishing in the warmer months. Or enjoy a stroll through villages and a riverside picnic of fresh local produce and boutique wine. DV

MELBOURNE

YARRA RANGES NOOJEE

BAW BAW WALHALLA

MOE

MELBOURNE

YARRA RANGES NOOJEE

BAW BAW WALHALLA

MOE

destinations Victoria | 157

Raise your glass Brimming with natural beauty, King Valley Prosecco Road was shaped by Italian migrants who made their home in the High Country. Alison Lloyd pays a visit

P

rosecco is renowned in Italy as the drink for every occasion – a fresh, uncomplicated, even joyful sparkling wine. In my circle of friends, it is called upon when we have had a win at work, or a more challenging day with the children. It is equally suited to poached eggs and smoked trout at brunch as it is to prosciutto and provolone before dinner. So, the opportunity of a three-day getaway to King Valley Prosecco Road seemed like heaven to me.

Tucked within Victoria’s High Country, King Valley is three hours northeast of Melbourne. This region has been strongly influenced by Italian migrant farmers who originally came here to grow tobacco, and today it is renowned as Australia’s home of Italian style wines. As the farmers longed for the tastes of their homeland, crops of dolcetto, barbera, sangiovese, bebbiolo and vermentino started appearing against the eucalypt-clad alpine ranges.

The food and wine culture of Italy found a fertile spot in

High Country Experience | Out Of Town

King Valley, and brought together a community of winemaking families in the region.

In 2000 Otto Dal Zotto, who was already an established winemaker of Italian-style wines in the region, set upon his dream of making prosecco, the wine of his hometown Valdobbiadene. It must have seemed ambitious, maybe even perilous – at that time there were no prosecco vines in the country. They would need to be sourced, approved, cultivated carefully – there were no guarantees of success, and no other prosecco producers in the country to consult with. With the support of his sons Michael and Christian, Otto was upon the path to pioneer a new wine style for the region.

I meet the man himself over lunch at the Dal Zotto family trattoria. Tall, charming and effusive, it does not surprise me that Otto Dal Zotto got exactly what his heart desired. He pours me a glass of Dal Zotto L’Immigrante Prosecco with pride and warm hospitality.

I’m here to meet winemakers like Otto, and to explore the food and wine trail known as King Valley Prosecco Road. Prosecco Road runs the length of King Valley, from the base of the Australian Alps at Cheshunt to the river plains at Milawa. It features five King Valley prosecco producers – Chrismont, Pizzini, Dal Zotto, Sam Miranda and Brown Brothers – who each lay on a feast of experiences that complement the prosecco way of life.

At Dal Zotto Trattoria, Chef Mark Manson presents handmade bread and soft cheeses, vegetables harvested from Elena’s bountiful kitchen garden, and roasts and braises of local lamb and goat. The pizza is authentic, and the pasta satisfying, with an extensive range of wines available to match, including unique drops like garganega. After lunch, we take our glasses out to the bocce court, where we drink in the views of mountains, vineyards, Elena’s orchard, as well as a little more prosecco (dalzotto.com.au).

We’ve booked ahead for a class at Katrina Pizzini’s A Tavola! Cooking School. Katrina is renowned as a wonderful cook of both traditional Italian dishes and modern cuisine influenced by flavours of Australia and abroad. Classes might focus on pasta-making, cooking for blokes (winemaker Alfred Pizzini makes a cameo here) or antipasti, tapas and dumplings.

The purpose-built commercial kitchen is impressive, but even more so is the generosity shown to us.

Katrina patiently instructs, taking time to ensure I will be able to replicate this at home, and Alfred brings out a few very special back vintage wines to enjoy with our finished dishes – an unforgettable experience (pizzini.com.au).

At Brown Brothers we stumble upon one of the most expansive wine selections I have ever seen. Charming cellar door supervisor Ernie shows me through the range – dry, fruity, sweet; still, sparkling, and fortified; new release, limited release and cellar door only release.

There are traditional cool climate wines as well as a number of Italian varietals, including three styles of prosecco. What is a Scottish family doing making all these Italian-style wines, I ask Ernie? The collaboration between Brown Brothers and local Italian farmers is an inspiring one, and dates back to the 1890s (brownbrothers.com.au).

It’s an easy bike ride from Brown Brothers to Sam Miranda, and once you get there you’ll find Sam shares a few of the same passions – cycling, prosecco, good food and conversation. His cellar door is stunning, in a modernist style, naturally lit by an impressive lightwell that towers over the family vineyards. We take a Prosecco Tasting Platter of local smallgoods, cured seafood and prosecco-battered prawns out onto the stone piazza. Chef Michael White delivers an impressive cut of beef for us to share, sourced from Sam’s own grape-fed cattle. These guys take ‘local’ and ‘seasonal’ seriously (sammiranda.com.au).

Our last stop is Chrismont, the newly opened cellar door, restaurant and larder that crowns the upper reaches of the valley (chrismont.com.au). Here, Jo and Arnie Pizzini welcome visitors to taste their

After lunch, we take our glasses out to the bocce court, where we drink in the views of mountains and vineyards … as well as a little more prosecco. elegant wines and experience the cuisine of their heritage, from both the north and south of Italy.

House-cured olives, fresh ricotta and pickled peppers are followed by burnt-butter gnocchi and local spatchcock. For dessert, Italian cannoli is served on the balcony, overlooking the vineyards that sweep down the valley. It’s the perfect place to take a moment, sip prosecco and plan your next King Valley getaway. DV

Need to know Visit kingvalleyproseccoroad.com.au to plan your prosecco escape. For those making a weekend of it, there is a wide range of accommodation available, from gourmet B&Bs to characterful tobacco kilns converted into guesthouses. Go to visitkingvalley.com.au to find out more or to book.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Fresh produce at the Dal Zotto Trattoria; King Valley vista; Dal Zotto prosecco.

destinations Victoria | 159

On top of the world Victoria’s High Country is a destination for all seasons, with top-notch food and wines and outdoor adventures galore

EAT & drink Housed in a historic villa, Simones Restaurant in Bright is renowned for creative Italian-inspired cuisine which draws on the bountiful seasonal produce of the Alpine valleys, complemented by local wines and Italian classics. The purpose-built cooking school offers a warm and welcoming environment where students later sit and eat together (simonesbright.com.au).

The brewery, bar and pizza kitchen at Bridge Road Brewers in Beechworth is housed in a 150-year-old Coach House and Stables. Experience Bridge Road’s innovative range while enjoying pretzels baked fresh daily to an old family recipe (bridgeroadbrewers.com.au).

Mansfield Coffee Merchant takes its coffee as seriously as its Melbourne-based cousins, with singleorigin beans roasted in-house and adventure-fuelling all-day breakfast and lunch menus on offer too, (mansfieldcoffeemerchant.com.au), while produce store and coffee house Svärmisk Café in Mount Beauty features award-winning local produce and wines, served with a Swedish twist (skafferi.com.au).

see & do Discover the secrets of Beechworth Gaol with a guided daytime tour conducted by a costumed prison warden, or turn up the fear factor with night-time tours on Saturdays (beechworthgaol.com.au). Bogong Horseback Adventures offer everything from two-hour trail rides to week-long packhorse tours in the heart of the Alpine National Park.

Tours are led by experienced guides with horses to suit all ability levels (bogonghorse.com.au). Just 30 kilometres away, Falls Creek is Victoria’s largest ski resort, boasting 65 cross-country ski trails and well-groomed downhill trails and four terrain parks. Tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow-biking and snow bocce will keep the whole family entertained, and visitors can soak up the après ski atmosphere at one of more than 30 bars and restaurants (fallscreek.com.au).

TEXT: VISITVICTORIA.COM AND CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: shutterstock.com

T

aste your way around the High Country’s villages and receive a warm welcome from the families who run the gourmet restaurants and boutique wineries. Ski the Alps in winter, and return in the warmer months for a breathtaking array of adventure activities to get the adrenaline pumping.

High Country | Out Of Town

On the road Travel along the Great Alpine Road and journey into some of the continent’s highest mountains, where the majestic Australian wilderness offers breathtaking vistas.

Whether blanketed with wildflowers or carpeted in snow, the Alps are the ideal place for those looking for an active adventure. Surrounded by big blue skies and crisp mountain air, visitors can hike, cycle or take a horseback ride past stunning alpine views, go abseiling, hang-gliding and rock-climbing, or enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter.

At day’s end, they can relax in a traditional pub, indulge at a boutique resort and spa, or camp under brilliant stars in the Alpine National Park.

In the foothills and down near the coast, the Great Alpine Road offers many other worthy experiences. Visitors can discover historic gold rush towns such as Beechworth and Omeo, enjoy the gourmet delights of Bright or cycle along scenic rail trails. The road ends at the magnificent Gippsland Lakes, where abundant marine life, water sports and fabulous fresh seafood are among the highlights. DV

BRIGHT

ABOVE: Bright’s famous entrance.

ALPINE

OMEO

NATIONAL PARK

GIPPSLAND LAKES

BRIGHT

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM left: Fishing at Falls Creek; Italian-inspired fare at Simones Restaurant; Falls Creek snowfields High Country huts, Falls Creek; Pennyweight Winery, Beechworth; Bridge Road Brewers.

ALPINE

OMEO

NATIONAL PARK

MELBOURNE GIPPSLAND LAKES

destinations Victoria | 161

Our

Editor’s picks HEPBURN BATHHOUSE & SPA

Located in the heart of Australia’s Spa Country, the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa was established in 1895 and remains the only historic bathhouse in Hepburn Springs. Enjoy traditional communal mineral water bathing in warm pools in the Bathhouse and the Sanctuary. Indulge your senses with reviving hydrotherapy treatments, private pure mineral water baths, massage and spa rituals.

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED Board a state-of-the-art gondola at the Arthurs Seat Eagle and fly over the state forest to the highest point of the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. You will be torn between looking at the breathtaking view across the bay to the city and spotting wildlife as you soar high above the trees. Either way you have a bird’s eye view! aseagle.com.au

hepburnbathhouse.com

MARKET PLACE Visit the Mill Markets in Ballarat, Daylesford and Geelong. Browse a fantastic variety of home decor, furniture, records, vintage clothing, books, fine china, glassware, industrial items, jewellery, antiques as well as Australian pottery, homewares, memorabilia, retro fashions and collectables, and enjoy quality food and coffee while you shop.

Open 7 days 10am-6pm (excluding Christmas Day). millmarkets.com.au

162 | destinations Victoria

SPA DREAMING

Peninsula Hot Springs is Victoria’s first thermal mineral springs and day spa centre. Enjoy over 20 bathing experiences in the social Bath House, indulge in a treatment at the Spa Dreaming Centre or unwind in one of the private baths. The cafe serves breakfast and lunch daily and dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Springs Lane, Fingal (03) 5950 8777 peninsulahotsprings.com

image: shutterstock.com

ESSENTIAL TOURIST

information

Melbourne train network

NORTH MAP NOT TO SCALE Effective January 2016 Š Public Transport Victoria 2015

Premium Station Customer service centre is staffed from first train to last, seven days a week Host Station Customer service staff at station during morning peak

For more information visit ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007 PTV_M/15. Authorised by Public Transport Victoria, 750 Collins Street, Docklands

Line to Showgrounds and Flemington Racecourse is only open for special events

#

INFOrmation | Melbourne Attractions

E Royal Botanical Gardens

D

14

1

King’s Domain

Queen Victoria Gardens

Alexandra Gardens

National Gallery of Victoria

22

24

C 16

a LunP ark

South Melbourne

B

Arts Centre

20

Eureka Tower 15

Southbank 23 18

ICONIC PRECINCTS 27. Docklands 28. Federation Square 29. Southbank 30. AAMI Park 31. Queen Victoria Market 32. Chinatown

A 5

4

Point Park

3

Ya rra Ri ve r

2

Docklands

166 | destinations Victoria

Port Melbourne

South Wharf

6

Etihad Stadium Central Pier

27

Waterfront City Docklands 21

1

Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre

Spencer St 17

Crown Entertainment Complex

iver Yarra R Flinders Lane

2

Flagstaff Gardens

19

King St

Harbour Town

7

William St

C

AAMI Park

Olympic Park

12

Rod Laver Arena

Hisense Arena

30

5

F

Melbourne Cricket Ground

East Mebourne 29

Flinders Street

Flinders Street Station

3 3938 41

Flinders Quarter 43

Lt Collins St

Bourke St

42

Lt Bourke St

Lonsdale St

Collins St

33

36

37

Lt Lonsdale St

La Trobe St

A’Beckett St

Franklin St

MARKET

31

Queen St

Queen Victoria Market

Elizabeth St

West Melbourne

ATTRACTIONS 1. Royal Botanic Gardens 2. Rialto Towers 3. The National Opal

Collection Musueum 4. Melbourne Museum 5. Melbourne Cricket

Ground (MCG) 6. Etihad Stadium 7. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium 8. St Paul’s Cathedral 9. Melbourne

Town Hall 10. State Library 11. St Michael’s Church 12. Rod Laver Arena 13. Birrarung Marr 14. Shrine of Remembrance 15. Eureka Skydeck 88 16. Luna Park 17. Melbourne Star 18. Polly Woodside 19. Melbourne Zoo ENTERTAINMENT 20. Southgate Arts and

Leisure Precinct 21. New Quay 22. Arts Centre 23. Crown Complex 24. Malthouse Theatre 25. Regent Theatre 26. Athanaeum Theatre

Stu rt S t

44

Swanston St

B

13

Marr

28 8

25

35

9 26

32 34

10

Federation Birrarung Square

40 11

D

Old Melbourne Gaol

Russell St

A

5

4

3 Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Carlton Gardens

Royal Exhibition Building

4

carlton

Exhibition St

Lygon St neighbourhood

River Yarra

St Kilda Rd

Melbourne Museum

E

Spring St

F

Brunswick St neighbourhood

Smith St neighbourhood

1

2

Melbourne’s Attractions

SHOPPING HOT SPOTS 33. Bourke Street Mall 34. QV 35. The Target Centre 36. GPO Melbourne 37. Melbourne Central 38. The Block Arcade 39. Block Place 40. Collins Place 41. St Collins Lane 42. Hardware Lane 43. Flinders Lane 44. Howey Place

Road Travel Tips | INFOrmation

rules of the road Stay alert, and keep up to speed on local laws to ensure that you arrive safely at your destination KEEPING LEFT Overseas visitors are reminded that in Australia vehicles are driven on the left side of the road in Australia.

until the traffic lights on the road you are turning into have changed to green, then turn right.

white line. Drivers must not use bicycle lanes during the times they are operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning or when parking.

TRAM LANES FATIGUE It can be a long drive between most Australian cities so take plenty of breaks while driving.

TEXT: VicRoads AND CASSY POLIMENI / IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

HOOK TURNS At some intersections in Melbourne where trams operate, to turn right you must do a ‘hook turn’ (making a right turn from the left lane). These intersections are clearly marked, with a sign hanging overhead or on the side of the road.

If turning right at an intersection with traffic lights and a ‘Right Turn from Left Only’ hook turn sign, you must make a hook turn so as not to delay trams. To do this, approach and enter the intersection from the left lane and indicate that you are turning right.

Move forward to the far left side of the intersection, keeping clear of the pedestrian crossings. Remain stopped

Some roads in Melbourne have designated tram lanes. These are indicated by a continuous yellow line and signs, which may also show hours of operation. Drivers must not drive in tram lanes when they are operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning, so long as they do not obstruct the progress of a tram.

PASSING OR OVERTAKING TRAMS

U-TURNS In Victoria, U-turns are permitted at intersections with signals unless there is a ‘No U-turn’ sign.

WATCH YOUR SPEED The faster you drive, the more distance you’ll need to brake and stop in an emergency situation. Leave a three or four second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Drivers may only overtake a tram on the left. Do not drive past the rear of a tram stopped at a tram stop (where there is no safety zone, dividing strip or traffic island). Drivers must stop level with the rear of the tram and wait for people to get on and off and for the tram doors to be closed before proceeding. If the tram doors are open and the road is clear of pedestrians then drivers may only drive past if directed to do so by a uniformed tram employee and provided that they drive at 10 kilometres per hour or less. If drivers are already passing when the tram stops, they must give way to pedestrians on the road between the tram and the far left side of the road.

Drivers must drive to the left of a safety zone, and slowly enough to be able to stop and avoid pedestrians.

SEAT BELTS AND CHILD RESTRAINTS

BICYCLE LANES

For more information, including licencing laws for interstate and overseas drivers, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au

Bicycle lanes are indicated by a bicycle lane sign and a continuous or broken

Everyone in a vehicle must wear a seatbelt. It the responsibility of the driver to ensure that all passengers are appropriately restrained. See the VicRoads website for information on how to correctly restrain children under seven years of age.

TOWING A CARAVAN Please consider avoiding school holidays, long weekends and special events when the road is busy. Plan your trip ahead of time and leave early.

DRIVER’S LICENCES In order to drive in Victoria you need a valid permit or licence. Check your licence is appropriate with VicRoads.

destinations Victoria | 167

INFOrmation | Regional Attractions

Mildura

THE MURRAY

Stawell

THE GRAMPIANS

Halls Gap

Swan Hill

Yarrawonga Mulwala Wangaratta

Australia AUSTRALIA

Lakes Entrance

GIPPSLAND

Albury Wodonga

Victoria Echuca

Bright

Wilsons Promontory

Sale

Bairnsdale

Mt Hotham

Falls Creek HIGH COUNTRY Mt Buller Funfields Park

Shepparton

DAYLESFORD

Bendigo

THE GOLDFIELDS

Lavandula

Ballarat

YARRA VALLEY Phillip Island Nature Parks & Amaze’N Things

Tidal River

Leongatha

MELBOURNE Marysville Healesville Olinda Mount Baw Baw

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Peninsula Hot Springs

Sorrento

Adventure Park

Melbourne

Daylesford

Castlemaine

Brambuk Cultural Centre

Ararat

Lorne

Torquay Surf Museum

Geelong

Sovereign Hill & Kryal Castle

BELLARINE PENINSULA Port Fairy Warrnambool Port Campbell Otway Fly

Apollo Bay

PHILLIP ISLAND

Mallacoota

MELBOURNE & SURROUNDS Funfields Park

YARRA VALLEY & THE Dandenong ranges Puffing Billy Steam Train

MORNINGTON PENINSULA Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry Peninsula Hot Springs

PHILLIP ISLAND Phillip Island Nature Park Amaze’N Things

THE GOLDFIELDS Sovereign Hill Kryal Castle

GEELONG & THE BELLARINE PENINSULA Twelve Apostles Adventure Park Otway Fly Treetop Adventures Torquay Surf Museum

GIPPSLAND Wilsons Promontory National Park

THE GRAMPIANS Brambuk Cultural Centre

DAYLESFORD & the MACEDON RANGES Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

SNOW FIELDS Mt Buller Mt Hotham

168 | destinations Victoria

Regional train and coach network A

B

C

D

1

F

G

H

J

K

L

M

N

Robinvale

Mildura

Pinnaroo

E

Murrayville

1

Griffith

Manangatang

Ouyen

To Adelaide

Barham

Piangil

2

Swan Hill

Sea Lake

Finley

Cohuna

Birchip Kerang

Hopetoun

Tocumwal

Barmah

Deniliquin

2

Cobram

Moama

Nathalia

Numurkah

Echuca

Kyabram

Shepparton

Corowa

Mulwala

Rutherglen Yarrawonga To Sydney

Warracknabeal

Pyramid

Donald

Rochester

Mooroopna

3

Stanhope

Elmore

Wangaratta

Murchison East

Dingee

To Adelaide

Horsham Dimboola

Rupanyup

St Arnaud

Epsom

Dunolly

Castlemaine

Woodend Daylesford

Creswick

Halls Gap Dunkeld Ararat

Melton

Ballan

Beaufort Wendouree

Rockbank

Skipton

Deer Park

Ardeer Sunshine

Donnybrook

Little River

Terang

Colac

Mount Gambier Camperdown

Heywood

Sherwood Park

Portland

7

Winchelsea

Birregurra

Port Fairy

Morwell

6

Moe Trafalgar

Caulfield

Yarragon

Clayton Dandenong Berwick*

Nar Nar Goon

Warragul Drouin

Garfield

Longwarry Pakenham

Anglesea

Warrnambool

TRARALGON

Ringwood

Richmond

South Geelong

Stratford Sale

Rosedale

Flinders Street

North Geelong GEELONG

Marshall

Waurn Ponds

Bairnsdale

Maffra

Whittlesea

SOUTHERN CROSS

North Shore

Mortlake

5

Paynesville

Yea

North Melbourne

Corio Koroit

Mount Buller Mansfield

Essendon

Footscray

Lara

Derrinallum

6

Lakes Entrance

Broadmeadows

Wyndham Vale

To Narooma & Batemans Bay

Orbost

Wallan

Craigieburn

Watergardens

Tarneit

Glenthompson

Cann River

Heathcote Junction

Sunbury

Bacchus Marsh

BALLARAT

Mount Beauty

Wandong

Melbourne Airport

Clarkefield

Clunes

5

Bright

Kilmore East

Gisborne Riddells Creek

Talbot

4 To Canberra

Broadford

Lancefield

Macedon

Maryborough

Casterton

Beechworth

Tallarook

Heathcote

Kyneton

Stawell

3

SEYMOUR

Malmsbury

Avoca

Wodonga

Euroa Avenel

Kangaroo Flat

Murtoa

Chiltern

To Canberra

Violet Town

Nagambie

BENDIGO

4

Hamilton

Springhurst

Benalla

Eaglehawk

Wedderburn Nhill

Albury

Lorne

Tynong

Bunyip

7

Lang Lang

Apollo Bay

Port Campbell

Anderson

Korumburra Leongatha Yarram Wonthaggi

8

Train and coach lines

Symbols

V/Line train – travel with myki V/Line train – paper ticket required V/Line coach – paper ticket required Effective from 21 June 2015 – v3.

Not to scale, not all stops shown.

9

B

Albury Anderson Anglesea Apollo Bay Ararat Ardeer Avenel Avoca

L3 J7 E7 D7 D5 G5 J4 D4

Bacchus Marsh Bairnsdale Ballan Ballarat Barham Barmah Beaufort Beechworth Benalla Bendigo Berwick Birchip Birregurra Bright Broadford Broadmeadows Bunyip

F5 M5 E5 E5 F2 G2 D5 K4 J3 F4 J7 C2 D7 K4 H4 H5 K7

Camperdown Cann River

C7 M5

Inverloch

Cowes (Phillip Island)

Customer Service Hub

8

For opening hours visit ptv.vic.gov.au

Interchange with Metro services Cape Paterson

Interchange with limited Metro services

Train and coach interchange

Stations are drop off only to Melbourne and pick up only from Melbourne

Coach interchange

State boundary

Train station

9

* Limited services at Berwick station

Coach stop

© Public Transport Victoria 2016

A

SkyBus services operate directly between Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station.

SkyBus ticket required

C

D

Cape Paterson Casterton Castlemaine Caulfield Chiltern Clarkefield Clayton Clunes Cobram Cohuna Colac Corio Corowa Cowes (Phillip Island) Craigieburn Creswick

J8 B6 F4 H6 K3 G5 J7 D5 H2 F2 D7 F6 K2

Dandenong Daylesford Deer Park Deniliquin Derrinallum Dimboola Dingee Donald Donnybrook Drouin Dunkeld

J7 E4 G5 F2 D6 B4 E3 C3 H5 L7 B5

J8 H5 E5

E

F

Dunolly

D4

Eaglehawk Echuca Elmore Epsom Essendon Euroa

E3 F3 F3 F3 H5 J3

Finley Flinders Street Footscray

H2 H6 H6

Garfield Geelong Gisborne Glenthompson

K7 E6 G5 C6

Halls Gap Hamilton Heathcote Heathcote Junction Heywood Hopetoun Horsham

B5 B6 G4 H5 A7 C3 B4

Inverloch

J8

Kangaroo Flat Kerang

F4 E3

For more information visit ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007 PTV_M/16. Authorised by Public Transport Victoria, 750 Collins Street, Docklands

G

H

Kilmore East Koroit Korumburra Kyabram Kyneton

H4 B6 J7 G2 F4

Lakes Entrance Lancefield Lang Lang Lara Leongatha Little River Longwarry Lorne

M5 G4 J7 F6 J8 F6 K7 E7

Macedon Maffra Malmsbury Manangatang Mansfield Marshall Maryborough Melton Mildura Moama Moe Mooroopna Mortlake Morwell

G4 L5 F4 E1 K5 E7 D5 F5 C1 F2 L6 H3 C6 L6

J

K

Mount Beauty Mount Buller Mount Gambier Mulwala Murchison East Murrayville Murtoa

K4 K5 A7 J2 H3 B1 B4

Nagambie Nar Nar Goon Nathalia Nhill North Geelong North Melbourne North Shore Numurkah

H3 K7 G2 A4 E6 H6 F6 H2

Orbost Ouyen

M5 C1

Pakenham Paynesville Piangil Pinnaroo Port Campbell Port Fairy Portland Pyramid

J7 M5 E2 A1 C7 B7 B7 E3

Richmond

H6

L

M

Riddells Creek Ringwood Robinvale Rochester Rockbank Rosedale Rupanyup Rutherglen

G5 J6 D1 F3 F5 M6 C4 K2

Sale Sea Lake Seymour Shepparton Sherwood Park Skipton South Geelong Southern Cross Springhurst St Arnaud Stanhope Stawell Stratford Sunbury Sunshine Swan Hill

M5 D2 H4 H3 C7 D6 E7 H6 K3 D4 G3 C4 M5 G5 H6 E2

Talbot Tallarook Tarneit

D5 H4 F6

N

Terang Tocumwal Trafalgar Traralgon Tynong

C7 H2 L6 L6 K7

Violet Town

J3

Wallan Wandong Wangaratta Warracknabeal Warragul Warrnambool Watergardens Waurn Ponds Wedderburn Wendouree Whittlesea Winchelsea Wodonga Wonthaggi Woodend Wyndham Vale

H5 H5 K3 C3 L6 C7 G5 D7 E3 E5 J6 D7 L3 J8 F4 F6

Yarragon Yarram Yarrawonga Yea

L6 K8 J2 K5

destinations Victoria | 169

INFOrmation | Traveller’s Tips

Traveller’s tips How to get the most out of your visit

Located opposite Flinders Street Railway Station, the Melbourne Visitor Centre is a one-stop shop for visitors and tourists. The centre offers information on Melbourne and Victoria including brochures and maps, what’s on listings, internet and email facilities, souvenirs and accommodation ideas, tour and transport booking services, as well as myki ticket sales. Open daily from 9am to 6pm (closed Christmas Day), street level lifts provide access for people with disabilities.

MELBOURNE VISITOR BOOTH, BOURKE STREET MALL Chat to friendly volunteers who can provide you with maps and information on shopping, attractions and events. Open seven days 9am to 5pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day).

CITY AMBASSADORS For assistance with directions, public transport enquiries, events and general questions about Melbourne, look for our roving City Ambassadors, easily identified by their distinctive red uniforms. They are mostly found along Swanston Street but you can also locate a City Ambassador anywhere across the central shopping district (bordered by Elizabeth, Flinders, Russell and La Trobe Streets). City Ambassadors can be found Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, and Sunday noon to 3pm (excluding Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day).

MELBOURNE VISITOR SHUTTLE Tourists can hop on or off the Melbourne Visitor Shuttle at any of the 12 stops along the route at key city destinations. This free 170 | destinations Victoria

shuttle bus takes you past some of the city’s best attractions with an informative on-board commentary.

The complete trip takes 90 minutes and operates every 30 minutes between 9.30am to 4.30pm daily (excluding Christmas Day) and every 30 minutes between 1pm and 4.30pm on Labour Day and ANZAC Day. Visit thatsmelbourne.com.au/ gettingaroundthecity to view the route and stops.

CITY CIRCLE TRAM The famous burgundy and gold City Circle trams offer free travel, taking in Melbourne’s city sights. Including an automated commentary, the tram runs along Flinders Street, Harbour Esplanade, Docklands Drive, La Trobe Street, Victoria Street, Nicholson Street and Spring Street. Trams run in both directions every 12 minutes, Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 6pm, and Thursday to Saturday 10am to 9pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). Please note: The City Circle Tram is not wheelchair accessible.

Public Transport myki is Melbourne’s ticket to travel on the city’s trains, trams and buses in zones 1 and 2. It is a durable smartcard that stores value and can be used over and over again. Buy a myki Visitor Pack from the SkyBus Terminal at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station, Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square, Southern Cross Station and Station Pier.

SHOPPING HOURS Many convenience stores, supermarkets and fast food outlets are open 24 hours a day. Most city and suburban retail stores are open Monday to Thursday until 6pm, Friday until 9pm, and Saturday and Sunday until 5pm. Many

pharmacies are open from 8am to 11pm, seven days a week.

BANKING HOURS Banks are generally open Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 4pm and until 5pm on Friday (branches may offer extended hours). Some banks and building societies are also open on Saturday mornings. Twenty-four hour automatic teller machines (ATMs) can be found throughout the city, suburbs and in most regional areas of Victoria.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE All banks, American Express offices and Thomas Cook outlets will exchange money during business hours. A currency exchange facility is located at 109 Collins Street in the CBD and is open seven days a week 9am to 6pm (including public holidays). For more information, call (03) 9654 2768.

CREDIT CARDS All major credit cards are widely accepted and can be used with a personal PIN number in automatic teller machines (ATMs) around the city, in the suburbs, and throughout regional Victoria.

CITYLINK & EASTLINK Melbourne’s main arterial roads, CityLink and EastLink, are toll roads requiring the use of an electronic device in the car (e-TAG) or the purchase of a day pass – the price will depend on which segments of the road are used and how frequently. Day passes and e-TAGs can be purchased from CityLink and EastLink Customer Centres, selected Australia Post Offices, touch-screen machines at selected Shell service station outlets, over the phone or online – see details below: CityLink – 132 629, citylink.com.au EastLink – 135 465, eastlink.com.au

Illustrations: Cheri Hughes

MELBOURNE VISITOR CENTRE, FEDERATION SQUARE

Traveller’s Tips | INFOrmation

DRIVING IN MELBOURNE In Australia, we drive on the left-hand side of the road and it is the law to give way to trams. In the city centre, many intersections require hook turns for vehicles to turn right, which are marked with overhead signs. Drink driving and speeding are serious offences. Please observe the speed limit signs.

CALLING OVERSEAS International Direct Dial calls can be made from most public telephones. Dial 0011 followed by the country code, area code and telephone number.

SMOKING LAWS Smoking is banned in all Melbourne restaurants and indoor cafes, public bars, clubs and wine bars, as well as theatres, cinemas, stadiums, taxis, public transport and other public spaces.

BOOKING SERVICES Tickets for theatre and sporting events can be purchased by phone through Ticketmaster or Ticketek, depending on the event. The Half Tix ticket booth is located at the Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street, and sells discounted tickets on the day of performance only.

Ticketmaster – 136 100 ticketmaster.com.au Ticketek – 132 849 ticketek.com.au Half Tix – (03) 9650 9420 halftixmelbourne.com

CITY HOSPITALS The Alfred Hospital – (03) 9076 2000 Royal Melbourne Hospital – (03) 9342 7000 Royal Children’s Hospital – (03) 9345 5522 Royal Dental Hospital – (03) 9341 1000 The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital – (03) 9929 8666 Royal Women’s Hospital – (03) 8345 2000 St Vincent’s Hospital – (03) 9288 2211

drop-off service from city hotels and four locations in St Kilda. Operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The journey takes about 25 minutes (03) 9335 3066, skybus.com.au)

INTERNET ACCESS AND WI-FI There are a number of internet cafes in the city centre. Telstra provides wireless internet coverage across much of the CBD and hotspots can also be found in many central locations. Visit the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square to find out more.

DISABLED VISITORS A CBD Mobility Map is available from the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square, Melbourne Visitor Booth in Bourke Street Mall and Melbourne Town Hall.

TIPPING Tipping is not a custom in Australia, and is not expected. If you receive good service, you may choose to tip at cafes or restaurants – 10 per cent of the bill would be reasonable.

POSTAL SERVICE The city’s main Australia Post Office is on the corner of Little Bourke and Elizabeth Streets, open weekdays 8.30am to 5.30pm, and Saturdays 9am to 5pm. There are other post offices and post boxes scattered throughout the city.

AIRPORT CONNECTIONS Melbourne Airport is about 22 kilometres from the city centre. Taxi fares between the city and the airport will cost about AUD$60.

There are no train or tram links.

Skybus travels to and from the airport, departing from Southern Cross Station every 10 minutes, with a pick-up and

LAUNDRY Melbourne City Dry Cleaners has a self-service laundry and dry-cleaning operation at 244 Russell Street. It is open Monday to Friday 7am to 8.30pm, and weekends 9am to 8.30pm (melbournecitydrycleaners.com.au).

PHOTOGRAPHY There are many photographic stores located along Elizabeth Street between Little Bourke and Lonsdale Streets. You can have your camera repaired, buy new memory cards or accessories and have your images developed at any of these outlets.

Emergency Services Police, Fire and Ambulance

Lifeline

(dial from any telephone)

(counselling service)

Poison Information Centre

Dental Emergencies

000 13 11 14 13 11 26 1300 360 054 destinations Victoria | 171

信息 | 旅行提示

旅行提示 如何充分享受您的旅行 联邦广场 (FEDERATION SQUARE) 墨尔本游客中心

您前往部分该市最美的景点，车上还配

业至下午 5 点。许多药店的营业时间为上

备详细的导游解说。走完全程需 90 分

午 8 点至晚上 11 点，一周七天均营业。

墨尔本游客中心位于弗林德

钟，每天（圣诞节除外）上午 9:30 至下午

斯路火车站 (Flinders Street Railway

4:30 运营，每 30 分钟一班，劳动节及澳

银行营业时间

新军团节下午 1 点至下午 4:30 运营，每

银行的营业时间通常为周一

Station) 对面，是一站式游客服务点。该 游客中心提供关于墨尔本和维多利亚州

30 分钟一班。请访问

的资料，包括宣传册和地图、旅游项目一

thatsmelbourne.com.au/

点，周五至下午 5 点（分行可能会延长营

览表、互联网和电子邮件设施、纪念品

gettingaroundthecity 查看路线和站点。

业时间）。部分银行和建筑资金融资合

至周四上午 9:30 至下午 4

作社 (Building Societies) 周六上午也营

和食宿建议、旅游和交通预定服务，并且 销售 myki 交通卡。服务时间为上午 9 点

环城电车

业。二十四小时自动柜员机 (ATM) 遍布

到下午 6 点（圣诞节休息），临街电梯方

著名的酒红色与金色相间的

市区、郊区和维多利亚州的大部分地区。

便残障人士出入。

环城电车可带您免费欣赏墨 尔本城市美景。电车上自动播放导游解

货币兑换

伯克街购物中心 (BOURKE STREET MALL) 墨尔本游 客服务亭

说，沿 途 经 过 弗 林 德 斯 街、滨 海 港 湾

所有银行、美国运通公司办

( H a r b o u r E s p l a n a d e)、达 克 兰 道

事处及 Thomas Cook 门店

(Docklands Drive)、拉贝托街、维多利亚

在营业时间均可兑换货币。中央商务区

您可以与热情的志愿者聊天，他们会为

街 ( V i c t o r i a S t r e e t)、尼 克 尔 森 街

科林斯街 109 号 (109 Collins Street) 设

您提供地图及购物、景点和活动信息。

(Nicholson Street) 以及春天街 (Spring

有货币兑换设备，一周七天上午 9 点至下

服务时间为上午 9 点到下午 5 点（耶稣受

Street)。电车为双向对开车，每 12 分钟一

午 6 点提供服务（公共假日照常服务）。

难日及圣诞节休息）。

班，运营时间为周日至周三上午 10 点至下

更多信息，请致电 (03) 9654 2768。

午 6 点及周四至周六上午 10 点至晚上 9 点

街头大使

（圣诞节和耶稣受难日暂停服务）。请注

信用卡

如需问路、询问公共交通信

意：免费环城电车没有无障碍轮椅通道。

遍布市区、郊区和维多利亚

息、活动及有关墨尔本的一

州大多数地区的自动柜员机

公共交通

(ATM) 可以识别所有常见信用卡，按下

使，他们穿着独特的红色制服，易于辨

myki 卡是墨尔本的交通卡，

个人身份识别码即可使用。

认 。他 们 主 要 分 布 在 史 旺 斯 敦 街

可在 1 区 (zone 1) 和 2 区

(Swanston Street) 两侧，但您也可以在

(zone 2) 搭乘火车、电车和公共汽车时使

CityLink 与 EastLink

中心购物区（以伊丽莎白街(Elizabeth)、

用。它是一张可重复使用的智能储值卡，

墨尔本公路干线 CityLink 和

弗林德斯街 (Flinders)、罗素街 (Russell)

结 实 耐用。墨尔 本 机 场 和 南十字车 站

EastLink 是收费公路，要求

及拉贝托街 (La Trobe Street) 为界）的

(Southern Cross Station) 的机场大巴终

在车内使用电子设备 e-TAG 或购买一日

任何地方找到街头大使。他们的工作时

点站 (SkyBus Terminal) 及联邦广场的墨

卡 (day pass)，费用取决于使用的路段和

间是周一至周六上午 10 点到下午 4 点，

尔本游客中心、南十字车站和车站码头

频率。一日卡和 e-TAG 可在 CityLink 和

周日中午至下午 3 点（耶稣受难日、圣诞

(Station Pier) 可以购买 myki 游客套餐。

EastLink 客户中心、指定澳大利亚邮局

般问题，您可以寻找我们的流动街头大

及通过指定壳牌加油站的触屏机器、电

节和节礼日除外）。

购物时间

话或在线购买，详情如下：

墨尔本游客穿梭巴士

许多便利商店、超市和快餐

CityLink – 132 629, citylink.com.au

游客可在城市主要旅游景点

店都 24 小时营业。许多市区

EastLink – 135 465, eastlink.com.au

沿线的 12 个站点搭乘墨尔

和郊区零售店周一至周四均营业至下午 6

本游客穿梭巴士。该免费穿梭巴士可带

点，周五营业至晚上 9 点，周六和周日营

172 | destinations Victoria

旅行提示 | 信息 在墨尔本驾车

城市医院

机场接驳

澳大利亚的交通规则是左侧

The Alfred Hospital –

墨尔本机场距离市中心 22

行驶，这也是给电车让路的

9076 2000

千米。坐出租车从市区到机

规则。在市中心，许多十字路口要求右转

Royal Melbourne Hospital –

场需约 60 澳元。未通火车或电车。机场

的车辆进行“钩形转弯”，需要进行钩形

(03) 9342 7000

大巴从南十字车站出发，往返机场，每

转弯的路口会有明显的高架标识提示。

Royal Children’s Hospital –

10 分钟一班，提供从市区酒店接送乘客

酒驾和超速是严重的违法行为。请遵守

(03) 9345 5522

服务。机场大巴 7x24 全天候运营。

限速标识。

Royal Dental Hospital – (03) 9341 1000

全程需约 25 分钟（电话 (03) 9335 3066，

The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear

skybus.com.au）

拨打越洋电话

Hospital – (03) 9929 8666

大多数公共电话均可直接拨

Royal Women’s Hospital –

小费

打国际电话。拨号顺序依次

(03) 8345 2000

澳 大 利 亚 没 有 付 小 费 的习

St Vincent’s Hospital – (03) 9288 2211

惯，因此不会要求您付小费。

为 0011、国家代码、区号及电话号码。

如您在咖啡馆或餐厅获得良好的服务，

吸烟规定

残障人士

您可以选择付小费 — 账单的 10% 是合

墨尔本所有餐厅、室内咖啡

联 邦广 场 的 墨 尔 本 游 客 中

理的小费金额。

馆、公共酒吧、俱乐部、葡萄

心、伯克街购物中心的墨尔

酒酒吧、剧院、电影院、体育馆、出租车、

本游客服务亭及墨尔本市政厅提供 CBD

洗衣

公共交通和其他公共场所均禁止吸烟。

无障碍通道地图。

Melbourne City Dry Cleaners 在 罗 素 街 2 4 4 号 ( 2 4 4

预订服务

邮政服务

Russell Street) 设有自助洗衣和干洗设

剧院和体育赛事的门票可通

该市的澳大利亚邮局总部位

备。周一至周五上午 7 点至晚上 8:30 营

过 Ticketmaster 或 Ticketek

于小柏克街 (Little Bourke

业，周日上午 9 点 至 晚 上 8:30 营业

电 话 购 买 ，具 体 情 况 取 决 于 活 动 安

Street) 和伊丽莎白街 (Elizabeth Street)

(melbournecitydrycleaners.com.au)。

排。Half Tix 售票亭位于史旺斯敦街上的

的转角处，工作日上午 8:30 至下午 5:30

墨尔本市政厅 (Melbourne Town Hall)，

营业，周六上午 9 点至下午 5 点营业。其

摄影

该售票亭仅在表演当天销售打折票。

他邮局和邮箱散布在该市的大街小巷。

小柏克街与朗斯代尔街 (Lonsdale Street) 之间的伊

Ticketmaster – 136 100 ticketmaster.com.au

互联网连接及无线网络

丽莎白街 (Elizabeth Street) 两旁遍布摄

Ticketek – 132 849

市中心有多家网吧。澳大利

影 器 材店。您 可以在 这 些门店 维 修 相

亚电讯 (Telstra) 提供的无线

机、购买新存储卡或配件及冲洗照片。

ticketek.com.au Half Tix – (03) 9650 9420

网络几乎覆盖整个 CBD，您也可以在许

halftixmelbourne.com

多中心位置找到无线热点。请前往联邦 广场的墨尔本游客中心，了解更多信息。

紧急服务

报警、火警和急救 （任何电话均可拨打）

生命线 （咨询服务）

000

13 11 14

中毒信息中心

牙科急诊

13 11 26 1300 360 054 destinations Victoria | 173

THE NEW CHADSTONE Melbourne’s icon for all things luxury just got even better

L

ike any longstanding brand, evolution is essential. Chadstone – The Fashion Capital, the premier shopping centre in Australia and a fashion mecca for Australians and international visitors, has recently unveiled its new development and now boasts more than 500 stores under an impressive 2700-tile glass roof.

Popular chain retailer H&M, and renowned luxury names Céline, Fendi, Givenchy, Dior Homme, Valentino and Loewe are the among the latest fashion offerings. Contemporary international brands Maje, Sandro and The Kooples are also welcome additions.

The latest labels at Chadstone join an established line-up that includes the best of international luxury such as

Burberry, Chanel, Coach, Escada, Emporio Armani, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Omega, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo and Tiffany & Co. Among Chadstone’s upgrade are unbeatable dining and lifestyle options.

To quell appetites, a new Food Atrium of street-style eats, an alfresco Dining Laneway and a Dining Terrace perfect for drinks and nibbles serve up something for everyone. Visitors can now also enjoy the latest movies at the state-of-the-art Hoyts complex.

While visitors and locals alike discover the new Chadstone, work continues for the highly anticipated 2017 opening of the southern hemisphere’s first Lego Discovery Centre, spanning a massive 2800 square metres.

With so much more to experience, you’ll need more than a day to enjoy all that Chadstone has to offer. Treat yourself to a world of luxury, a world of indulgence, a world of style at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital. chadstone.com.au

Shop in style at the Fashion Capital.

Explore over 150 offers exclusively available to tourists visiting Chadstone.

Visit chadstone.com.au to find out more!

176 | destinations Victoria

CAMILLA

The home of

After launching her first boutique on Bondi Beach in 2004, CAMILLA is now a name synonymous with Australian fashion and lifestyle. Vibrant colour, digital print, bohemian detailing and impeccable craftsmanship form every CAMILLA piece, from renowned kaftans to swim wear. CAMILLA has formed an inimitable realm of luxury resortwear that captures Sydney’s earthy essence, enlivened by crystal embellishments, silk fabrications and vivacious hues.

Chadstone is the premier destination for the best in local designers who present everything from timeless classics to statement stunners CAMILLA

F

ashionable locals are influenced by the Australian lifestyle, favouring natural fabrics, casual tailoring and quirky accents. World-class Australian fashion designers are in global demand, but many local labels have their flagship stores at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital. Renowned Australian labels sass & bide, Manning Cartell and Skin and Threads rub shoulders with iconic local brands such as Gorman, Alannah Hill, Bonds and Country Road. Whatever your style, you’ll be sure to find something fabulous at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital.

MANNING CARTELL

SASS & BIDE MANNING CARTELL

SASS & BIDE sass & bide offers a full range of women’s ready-to-wear fashion, denim, leather accoutrements and exclusive gallery pieces that celebrities and key fashion figures including Amal Clooney, Olivia Palermo and Kendall Jenner have taken a liking to.

Now stocked in over 20 countries sass & bide is defined by dedication to the strong, the obscure and the beautiful, with an emphasis on ornate embellishments, graphic prints and innovative cuts.

WHITE SUEDE Founder, designer and creative force behind Melbourne label White Suede, Jacqui Demkiw boldly marries texture and styling with a distinct modern vibe.

Founded in 2005, White Suede’s signature leather pieces and coveted dresses spell timelessness and classic appeal – captivating for any woman.

WHITE SUEDE

A xxxxxx Promotion

Sisters Cheryl, Vanessa and Gabrielle Manning founded Manning Cartell in 2005 to create beautiful Australian-made collections that reflect quality, respect and an ethical approach to fashion. The fusion of innovative fabrics, texture and prints is fundamental; while imagery drives and defines the tenor of each collection, giving Manning Cartell its distinctive imprint, while encompassing visual richness framed by craftsmanship and attention to detail.

chadstone.com.au

Eat With four dining precincts at Chadstone, there’s no need to shop til you drop. You just have to decide what to try first DINING TERRACE

FOOD ATRIUM

Day or night, the Dining Terrace invites you to savour small plates, sumptuous mains and drinks with friends.

With seven new restaurants, you will be spoilt for choice. New favourites include The Neil Perry Burger Project, Fonda Mexican, Mama’s Buoi and the stunning Marae Izakaya and Bar.

An enticing spread of flavours and street-style eats, with a dash of classic comfort options.

FOOD CENTRAL Take your pick from a vibrant mix of favourites, modern healthy picks and international dishes.

DINING LANEWAY Take a trip down our alfresco laneway where you’ll find small eats, sweet treats and more. For a sumptuous treat you can’t go wrong with San Churro Chocolateria.

More about the capital Shop in style at The Fashion Capital WITH YOUR UNIONPAY CARD Receive a free Jurlique gift when you spend $500 or more at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital on your UnionPay card.*

Spend over $500

Spend over $3,000 *Terms and conditions apply.

Offer only valid for UnionPay Cards that start with the number “62”.

Parking Chadstone now has more than 10,000 free parking spaces, with many undercover. There are also a number of parking spaces for the mobility impaired, located adjacent to all entrances. Parking spaces for Parents with Prams is also available.

Customer Concierge Customer Concierge Desks are located on the ground level near Seed and on the lower level near Target. Our friendly staff will assist you with store information and directories, lost and found property, and complimentary stroller and wheelchair hire.

Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Please phone the Concierge Desk on (03) 9567 1050.

Chadstone is located at 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone.

MAMA’S BUOI

Jump on the FREE Fashion Shuttle You can travel to Chadstone – The Fashion Capital in style on the complimentary Fashion Shuttle. It runs hourly, seven days a week, departing from Federation Square in the CBD. For enquiries, schedule and booking information, visit chadstone.com.au

Chadstone – Fashion TV

The Fashion Capital

chadstone_fashion

@fashion_capital

chadstone.com.au

chadstone.com.au

Gift Ideas Take home a stylish piece of Australia from a host of luxurious beauty and accessories stores at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital

MIMCO MIMCO designs unique accessories collections that can now be personalised to you. Introducing MIMBOSS: luxury leather monogramming service available exclusively at MIMCO Chadstone. Complimentary monogramming is available in-store on a selection of leather goods including bags, wallets, pouches, keyrings, travel items and tech accessories. A perfect way to make your gift extra special.

MIMCO Supernatural Box Hip Honey $249

MECCA MECCA brings you the BEST in global and Australian beauty across two unique beauty concepts: Mecca Cosmetica and Mecca Maxima. Find the perfect gift from an exclusive edit of over 100 brands with the help of exceptional service and beauty expertise.

MECCA Cosmetica: Tinted Lip De Luscious in Berry $30, Oriental Rose Transforming Hand Cream $25, and Hydrating Hand Wash $25

COUNTRY ROAD Country Road is passionate about creating simply beautiful merchandise designed to reflect an authentically Australian way of life.

Party Spot Logo Tote $79.95 Oversized Sun Hat $79.95 Saskia Earring $59.95 Graphic Met Logo Mug $17.95

F

or a gift that your loved ones will truly enjoy, head to Chadstone – The Fashion Capital and take home a luxurious piece of Australia. With a host of homewares, beauty and specialist stores, you’ll find a huge range of gift options. Choose a special-something from iconic beauty brands Aesop and MECCA, or pick up the perfect gift or fashion item at accessories label Mimco and iconic Australian retailer Country Road.

AESOP Named for the city of Boston, Aesop’s travel kit provides convenient solutions for upkeep while travelling. It offers a selection of unisex travel-sized products from the Classic Skin Care range, essential hair and bodycare formulations, and the company’s new Mouthwash, presented in an elegant black microfiber case. The case is designed to hold larger Aesop products once the original contents have been enjoyed, making it a handsome gift for frequent travellers.

Boston Travel Kit, RRP $75