Priceless
ISSUE 34 - SUMMER 2012/13
Robert Maclaurin Jamieson River
Craig Gough Luna Park
Open daily only for the duration of the Castlemaine State Festival 15 – 25 March, 2013
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Contents Summer 2012/13 5: PRODUCE TO PLATTER 9: I HEART BENDIGO 10: BENDIGO TRAM NINESEVENSIX 12: ADVENTURES IN COFFEE, PART III 13: A PLACE FOR ALL SEASONS 17: THE GOOD MOVE 18: STOP HERE
28: A SNAPSHOT OF THE MACEDON RANGES 31: LANCEFIELD OR LAZARUS 32: A UNIQUE DESTINATION 34: CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS - MORE THAN EVER BEFORE 35. TRAVELLING WITH PETS
21: IT’S ALL HERE 24: FROM SPAIN TO HEPBURN SPRINGS 25: FROM PADDOCK TO PLATE
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REGULARS: 35: ASTROLOGY 37: MARKETS & VICS
From The Editor Secrets had a birthday this year – it was our seventh and we thought it was time to look back at the changes that have taken place in the Central Victorian region. In that time and there have been many, so many in fact that we can only provide a snapshot in this issue, however we did ask the Shires within the region to give us their perspective on recent growth and you may find it makes interesting reading. One of the big growth areas is food - no matter how the economy is going, people will still spend on good food and wine and we talk to Chef David Willcocks from Hepburn Springs Argus Room who is
a magician in the kitchen. Simon Lock has reviewed Bendigo’s Tram Restaurant where the chef creates wonders in a shoebox and the authors of a new book Produce to Platter – Daylesford, Macedon Ranges, Ballarat & Pyreness, Jonette George and Daniele Wilton tell how they brought together this latest in their series of Produce to Platter books. No matter where I travel in our region, towns are moving forward and in most cases, the new growth is being driven by the public’s desire to explore good dining experiences. Also in this issue, new author, Daylesford’s Jeremy O’Carroll
talks about his nine-year journey writing his book – ‘Full Speed’ and we will be reviewing the book in our autumn issue, which will have a literary feel, with May seeing another presentation of the popular Clunes Booktown Festival. The only constant in life is change – even those changes we may not like are often a catalyst to reinvent ourselves, so as we come to the end of 2012 year, we hope that the changes that come to you in 2013 are all good. Happy New Year.
ISSUE 34 - SUMMER 2012/13 PUBLISHED BY Knowers Ark Services ABN 85 392 160 201 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 636 Daylesford VIC 3460 T 03 5345 7260 | E secrets@knowersark.com.au WEBSITE www.secretsmagazine.com.au EDITOR Norma Morton ONLINE / ARTWORK & LAYOUT Nick Morton COVER Big Horns by Donna Todd - donnatodd.net CONTRIBUTERS Nardia Baxter-Keene, Rebecca Djordjevic, Lyndall McQuinn, Megan Spencer, Bryley Drummond, Simon Lock All content in this publication is copyright and may not be re-produced in whole or in part in any form without prior permission of the publisher. Secrets will be distributed quarterly throughout Victoria and various tourism outlets as well as various South Australian outlets. Secrets is also available from cafes, restaurants, B&B’s, hotels and shops. All care is taken to ensure accuracy of articles and advertising, however the publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions and references are a guide only and not intended as a recommendation.
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Produce to Platter Daylesford, Macedon Ranges, Ballarat & Pyrenees An interview with the authors Jonette George & Daniele Wilton
What was the motivation to write Produce to Platter? Jonette and I have a love of all things local. Some years ago we became very parochial about Australian produce. We realised how lucky we were to have such wonderful fruit, vegetables and meat products and started supporting the Farmers’ Markets in search of the real deal. We wanted to translate this sense of pride into a book and also showcase regional Australia to locals and visitors to various regions. There are Produce to Platter books for four regions so far - Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsular, Macedon Ranges/Daylesford. Do you have other regions planned for the future? We have many regions planned for the future. We are currently working on the High Country area, which includes The King Valley and Rutherglen regions. After that we will have pretty much covered Victoria – without Gippsland, The Grampians and Bendigo. We are planning further Produce to Platter books in Tasmania and for the
rest of Australia. Is each book in the Produce to Platter series “one offs” or will they be published annually? We see the Produce to Platter books as having a 3 year life span. We are about to do a whole new production of the Mornington Peninusla Produce to Platter book. Food and wine has been a major driver to the development in our towns. Do you see the same progression in the other regions? Regional Australia has discovered that not only do they have great local produce, they can also use this to drive tourism to their regions. People are travelling these days as much to visit the sights as they are to taste the local produce that is in season and available fresh through local Farmers Markets, restaurants, cafes and cellar doors.
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Bianca and Charlie all part of our family. We are only a very small business and everyone who comes on board ends up sharing our food and travel experiences, with as much passion as we have. There is a lot of research and no doubt, travel required to find the producers who are in your books - was this a task shared between you? Jonette and I did most of the driving around together. We had a great time meeting the locals who were passionate about their business. I think they loved our visits and enjoyed telling us their stories and their points of difference.
I understand Jonette, is the writer, Daniele the designer and Katie your photographer, anyone else in the family coming on board? We see our team as one big family – so you could call Tyson, Pippa, Joel, Paul,
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Ballarat Has Much To Offer Ballarat is one of those places where there is always something going on. No matter how long since you were last here – last month or last century, you will find something new and something of interest to you. There are a multitude of competitions – dancing, calisthenics, basketball, golf, table tennis or teachers’ games. Stunning sites such as Lake Wendouree and the Ballarat Botanic Gardens, music, theatre and the favourites - Sovereign Hill and the Ballarat Wildlife Park. Visitors to Ballarat, come for all of these reasons, along with visiting family, attending weddings, a stopover on the way further west or a visit to one of the two state of the art hospitals. Noelene Gration, manager of Ballarat Serviced
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Apartments has met with and spoken to many guests bit.ly/Yz8Qqw to Ballarat, which gives her a feel for why they come and what makes them come back. “Ballarat has so much to offer”, Noelene said. “The art gallery is wonderful and is one of the largest regional galleries in Australia.” She added; “Those who stay at Ballarat Serviced Apartments do so because they are so close to the city centre, but the apartments are very private and quiet. Our guests return because Ballarat is beautiful and of significant interest and because of the convenience and privacy the apartments provide.” www.ballaratservicedapartments.com.au
Where’s The Red Duck? Seven years ago, Scott Wilson-Brown stepped into a whole new world of brewing. Scott’s parents-in-law had returned from a trip to the UK with stories of micro breweries they had visited and that set the family off on new direction. Not doing anything by half, what followed was a lot of discussion, a lot of study, all of which has culminated in Red Duck Beer. Red Duck Brewery and Cellar Door is now open in Ballarat. Monday to Friday during the week and Saturdays from 11 to 4pm. During the week you can usually see the team brewing or bottling, or both. You can go along to talk about beer, try beer, drink beer and buy beer at cellar door prices. Groups and brewery tours can be accommodated by arrangement. Also look out for Red Duck ales around town, and throughout regional Victoria, at quality establishments.
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They also love brewing up new beers and have around 30 bit.ly/YNQgK5 different varieties available. There are eight regular ales and limited releases that include The Ox, Golden Dragon, Sexy Thing, Queen Bee, Gruiter, Ragnarok, Hop Bach, Bell Hop, Gnaume and Smells Like A Pony, just to name a few. Can you find a Red Duck?
Further south, there is the Red Duck Provedore, definitely worth the drive for the best coffee in Camperdown, great lunches, gourmet produce, boutique wines and of course, a big range of Red Duck ales. Red Duck is one of the smallest breweries in Australia, focusing on quality, all natural ales.
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Ballarat’s Best Kept Secret The Craft Coucil of Ballarat celebrated 20years in the Adam Lindsay Gordon Cottage with a landmark Exhibition of our best work at the Gold Museum. It was titled Froth and Bubble from the oft quoted verse by Adam Lindsay Gordon whose memory and poetry we also profile. We still source our handmade gifts
from local Ballarat talent and have maintained a membership which continues our tradition of high quality and variety. We are nominated as one of Ballarat’s Best Kept Secrets, but not for long! We intend to make the Cottage as well known to locals as it is to the tourists who regularly flock through our doors.
The Garden of St. Erth Nursery & Café
Try our famous Devonshire Tea Available for weddings & functions Simmons Reef Road, Blackwood | 03 5368 6514 | www.diggers.com.au/gardenStErth.shtml
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I Heart Bendigo
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By Bryley Drummond
My parents sold the farm in 2005 and moved to Bendigo. Heading up the Calder Highway from time to time, we found the late Saturday afternoon arrival and early Sunday departure to suit– not much to see; Bendigo was just another country town, wasn’t it? At some point during infrequent visit number eight, we decided to scratch the surface and visit the art gallery. Wow. How can one town have so many Whiteley’s? Interest piqued. Visits to the parentals then became longer and more frequent. We’d often pop in to Castlemaine, Maldon, or Kyneton on the way. My partner and I would gambol one of the many walking tracks (nought to bush in 10 minutes), pop into town for a coffee (we found a laneway) or simply walk down Pall Mall gazing at the architecture (now that’s a gargoyle!). Somewhere between Rosalind Park, the surprisingly good coffee, and ever more thumbed real estate section, we were unknowingly contemplating the impossible. There was no point denying it any longer – we’d decided on a tree change. Bendigo it was! Although (or possibly because) my immediate family live here, I was ‘somewhat reluctant’ to move from what I considered a pretty groovy
place - inner-city Melbourne, but we saw it as an opportunity to provide our future children with a country lifestyle and all the benefits Bendigo had to offer.
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We were keen. We wanted to LOVE Bendigo, so we decided we would. I would write a blog, a positive blog about what we loved about Bendigo and investigate the important things: the best schools and facilities? Yes, but more importantly; where to get decent coffee, cafes with free wi-fi, and who was open for Sunday breakfast. So I started my blog in December 2011 as a way to get to know my new home town. What began as a form of therapy for me, morphed into a quasi-personal crusade to promote Bendigo from an individual perspective. Now, nearly 50 posts later, I’m almost at 15,000 hits. When I saw how effective it was, I realised the potential benefits for local and small businesses – those without websites, and especially those who were not on social media. A lot of my posts are a direct reaction to what people search for, and you know what? Well and truly,
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Bendigo Tram NineSevenSix By Simon Lock
Anticipating a memorable experience was just the first stage of an evening spent on NineSevenSix, Bendigo’s tram restaurant. Arrival at the meeting point - Wine Bank on View, where we started the evening with a complimentary drink was fairly low key, surrounded as we were by the many fine wines stretching as far as the eye could see. I introduced myself to others who, like me were excited at the prospect of something different. Walking down View Street on a rather humid night to reach the tram didn’t bother us at all. If you have ever walked across the park to the MCG at night with thousands of people, you feel a similar camaraderie - a togetherness knowing there’s good times ahead. It was the same feeling that night. Once seated in the tram restaurant, I was surprised at the old world grandeur, but still down to earth feeling of the old girl. Wait staff were swift and knowledgeable explaining the nights schedule. It’s truly a wonderful thing being held by the hand and led through the night’s entertainment, which for me, started with a glass or two of Harcourt Valley chardonnay 2010; teaming well with a pistachio crusted duck with raspberry sauce. The duck was cooked superbly and partnered well with what was more like raspberry vinaigrette, a little shy on the pistachio for me, but no big deal considering the shoe box of a kitchen the chef works from. Need a body in a suitcase? Call him. Between entree and main it was time for a nature break, no the rumour isn’t true; they do have toilet stops, a vital component over 3 10 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au
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hours. Back on board and armed with one of my favourite Bendigo reds, Marong Vineyard 2004 Shiraz, this light medium bodied yet complex wine teamed well with my roasted ballotine of chicken, root vegetables and sauce volute, however the chicken was a Kiev cut chicken breast not a rolled and stuffed ballontine - but again cooked extremely well. By now, feeling very convivial, people started moving between tables talking to complete strangers and the event was feeling like a private party as we passed through beautiful Bendigo at night. The waiting staff responded to every beck and call and despite the stress of keeping a tram full of people happy, they seemed to be having a good time. Dessert was the perfect ending to an excellent meal. Mine was chocolate and hazelnut pudding with coffee cream, accompanied by coffee and Muscat. The three together were wonderful - there’s a party in my mouth and no one’s invited. Coming to a halt, with everyone there not wanting the night to be over it shows we all had a very good time indeed. Sure there were a couple of food terminology eras but who cares, in all - a bloody good night for a restaurant on wheels. Check it out next time you want a staff party, or intimate dinner with that special someone. Three courses with Bendigo wine in abundance! Money well spent.
On The Right Tram Four years ago, Mark and Justine Coffey took over the running of Bendigo’s restaurant on wheels – the vintage tram car ninesevensix and in that time they have turned it into something exceptional. As owners of the award winning Wine Bank on View – recent runners up in Gourmet Traveller magazine’s Best Wine List awards - they knew that with their expertise, along with the professionalism of their talented and dedicated team, they could elevate ninesevensix to a position of world class dining. The food is cooked fresh on board the tram, in what our reviewer, Simon Lock refers to as a shoebox and there is no compromise on service. The three-hour journey indulges all the senses –
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the fine dining, excellent wines and the sights of the stunning bit.ly/VBARrW grand architecture of Bendigo’s heritage buildings – outstanding at any time, but taking on another dimension when seen at night. The tram restaurant runs every Saturday night and is also available for functions, adding further to Bendigo’s growing reputation for quality and innovative dining and when you have inventive and visionary people like Mark and Justine leading the way, this city is assured of holding it’s own against anywhere in Australia. Visit www.winebankonview.com
The Boite Singers’ Festival
The Boite Singers Festival held each January in Daylesford is one of those unsung events that has a loyal following and is a highlight of the summer season. Showcasing world music and attracting artists from Australia and internationally audiences can immerse themselves in workshops in everything from gospel music to pirate songs of the Seychelles or simply sit back and enjoy the performances of a very talented crop of artists. Singing is amazingly uplifting for those who listen and those who perform and even if you can’t sing a note, you can immerse yourself in one (or more) of 40 workshops on offer over the weekend. There are limited places, so book early through the website www.theboite.com.au
El Gordo - 'The Fat One' in Spanish.. We're about the perfect coffee, fantastic food, and enjoying the moment. El Gordo Coffee & Culture Chancery Lane, Bendigo phone: 0413 447 518 www.elgordo.net.au SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 11
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Adventures In Coffee, Part III: ‘Making good coffee – coming to your senses’
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By Oliver Budack & Megan Spencer - El Gordo Café Bendigo It’s sad to sit down to a coffee, only to take your first sip and find it “disappointing”, with a flavor you’d liken more to motor oil... A bad coffee’s got to be up there with moving house and divorce for ‘Top Five Disappointments In Life’. Here’s the thing: making a good coffee from an espresso machine requires that you engage your five senses: touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing. Like: listening to the machine for ‘noises’ (hissing water signifying burning coffee); watching the coffee come out of the group handle with the right ‘mouse tail’ shape, not a fast, fat stream of coffee-coloured water, that’s simply bad coffee. Making coffee’s a sensory experience that requires the FULL attention of whomever’s making it – not easy when you’re under pressure and managing everything else around you, whether working in a café or at home in the family kitchen. Like anything, making a good coffee comes with time and practice. Common mistakes baristas and ‘civilians’ alike often make are: •
The milk’s too hot. (Ideally it should be 5570 degrees Celsius, depending on time of year and where you live).
•
The milk has no texture. (You want a meringue-like, soft texture).
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The coffee shot/extraction takes either, too long through the ‘group handle’. It results in bitter/burnt coffee. Or, if too short, a weak and under-extracted coffee results.
•
Using stale coffee! Coffee’s a food; once it’s ground, oxidization starts and any
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espresso made from such grounds will taste stale. Ideally, ground coffee should be used within 25 minutes of grinding. •
Finally, don’t let the coffee sit there - serve it straight away!
Imagine if all of the above happened IN ONE COFFEE. (Sadly, not uncommon.) One or a combination of the above all too often occurs in a café with a machine clearly costing serious coin, and/or watching a barista who should know better... What went wrong?!! A lack of training is definitely a problem in many food & beverage venues. Proper barista training takes time and money; too often employers throw their staff in at the deep end without equipping them with fundamentals. Impressive-looking equipment won’t save them - neither will automatic machines. Don’t be fooled: pre-sets will not deliver ‘the perfectlyextracted coffee’ Again, the perfect coffee requires your full attention. For baristas at the top of their game, manual extractions are the only way. ‘Free-pouring’ as it’s also known, can be just as fast and efficient as an automated button in the hands of someone who gives a proverbial. More tips on how to make perfect coffee next time.. Meanwhile, if you’re not happy with your coffee, say something. Send it back, like you would a burnt steak. Sincere baristas won’t be offended. Time to wake up and smell the coffee...
A Place For All Seasons Over recent years many people have chosen to relocate to the Mount Alexander Shire. This area’s central location (just over an hour from Melbourne) coupled with excellent facilities and improved access by road and rail makes it very desirable to those looking for a ‘tree change’ Castlemaine gained notoriety in the 1850’s becoming the richest shallow alluvial goldfield the world had ever seen. Today Castlemaine is becoming known as a sophisticated and contemporary destination, well regarded for its eclectic arts scene, fine food and wine and its history and heritage. Funky boutique shopping, vintage outlets, amazing events and a strong café culture attract a plethora of visitors from a variety of locations. Castlemaine’s reputation for great food and wine experiences has grown substantially over the last few years. Whether it’s an acclaimed restaurant, choosing from a number of different cuisines in the main cultural precinct, or sampling a top drop at a cellar door... the choices are endless. Outlying towns have also seen substantial change over the last few years. Maldon - whilst still retaining the title of the ‘most intact heritage streetscape’ and ‘Australia’s First Notable Town’ – today offers so much more...
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unique jewellery, local artworks, quality homewares, fascinating bit.ly/VjGg4V books, precious antiques and quality cafes. Local resident and tree changer Paul McDonald comments on the stunning landscape around Maldon “wonderful topography with rolling hills, lush plains and granite outcrop - seeing the sunset from the nearby Rock of Ages - a truly moving experience.” Harcourt, known as the Cider and Apple Centre of Australia, has much to offer visitors. Mt. Alexander Regional Park features unique flora and fauna, stunning views and great walk and cycling options. With fresh fruit in abundance through the valley and award winning wines & cider (acclaimed in both Australian and overseas markets) to sample, you can see why many people choose to return again and again. The smaller towns of Newstead, Vaughan, Fryerstown Chewton, Guildford and Taradale also have huge appeal, each with their own particular charm. The summer is a great time to be outdoors – set aside a couple of days to explore the vibrancy and beauty of this culturally rich area for yourself.
Visit Castlemaine, Maldon & Surrounds... a destination for all seasons
Free call 1800 171 888 www.maldoncastlemaine.com.au SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 13
Castlemaine Farmers Market The opportunity to buy fresh, quality produce that has only travelled a few kilometres is both a practical and enjoyable past time. People have the chance to speak with the growers about their produce and pick up some ideas about recipes. Of course if the market is accredited, that’s even better as you are guaranteed that the produce is genuinely from the stallholder. Castlemaine Farmers Market is accredited and it has grown steadily over the past few years and successfully profiles the many specialities from the region. With over 45 stalls, set in the lovely gardens of Victory Park, the market is more like a festival, than a market. The relaxed ambience reflects the town itself. Whether your interest is regional wines or boutique beers, organic meats and smallgoods or the seasonal fruit
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that includes stone fruits and cherries, you will find the quality bit.ly/R70Ud2 of the produce is nothing short of sensational. The market runs on the first Sunday of each month except January – take along a picnic basket and relax on the lawn or better still, buy your picnic from the market itself and savour the flavour of excellent, locally produced foods. And don’t forget the Produce Exchange, which is growing bigger and brighter than ever. Take along your excess goodies from your own garden and swap them for someone else’s excess. It is what community markets are all about and it’s fun. You can learn more from www.castlemainefarmersmarket.org or call 0429 518 985
THE 5th MALDON ANTIQUE & COLLECTABLES FAIR SAT 16th & SUN 17th FEBRUARY 2013 8am-5pm Maldon Football Ground Admission $2 - Children Free
1st Sunday Every Month (except January) 9am – 1pm Victory Park, Mostyn Street, Castlemaine Over 45 stalls set in a lovely picnic setting. Meet our passionate food producers who are proud of the fruit ,vegetables, cheese, wine and organic meat they produce. Phone 0429 518 985
www.castlemainefarmersmarket.org
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120 STALLS OF ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES FROM ALL OVER VICTORIA AND INTERSTATE. AN UNMISSABLE EVENT ON THE ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLES CALENDAR All enquiries 0414 244 842 Mark or Bonnie www.maldoncollectables.com A MALDON INC INITIATIVE
A Sup of Wine A Starry Sky & Thou Now in its eighth year, the Maldon Twilight Food and Wine Festival has become a much anticipated, one could say, iconic event that will again take over the entire main street of the town on 19th January, 2013. Imagine a balmy summer evening, you, your friends and hundreds of strangers enjoying each other’s company, under a canopy of stars and indulging in the foods and wines of the region, made all the more enjoyable with the wonderful music of ballad singer Janette Geri, local jazz quartet Moodswing and back by popular demand – renowned operatic trio, Voci Classico. This is a festival where the organisers think of everything. Not only will there be free shuttle buses, but the famous steam locomotive is offering packages where festival goers can enjoy
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refreshment and wines as it winds it’s way from Castlemaine to Maldon. You will however, need to book these direct with Victorian Goldfields Railway – visit the website www.vgr.com.au.
The evening kicks off with sample tastings from local producers such as olives, olive oils, cheeses, smallgoods and other goodies. Entrees, main courses and desserts will be available for purchase from the extensive range of vendors, including specialist caterers, in the food court. This is always a sell out event, so if you want to be part of the 2012 festivities, you will need to be super quick. To book your spot or to find out more, you can contact Waller Reality on 5475 1055 or Phillippa at the Maldon Neighbourhood Centre on 5475 2093
Dine under the stars in Main Street Saturday 19th January 2013, 7PM - 11PM Tickets: $25 each VIP tables (6 per table), $20 each other tables (8 per table). Price includes tasting plate of local gourmet produce. Entertainment: Voci Classico, Moodswing, Janette Geri Book now, Waller Realty, Phone 5475 1055. Credit cards accepted.
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Cascade Print Workshop presents THE TREE SHOW
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The Tree Show is an exhibition to be featured at Cascade Print Workshop, 482 Bendigo Road, Maldon as part of the 2013 Castlemaine State Festival from the 15th to 25th March. The exhibition brings together a unique collection of prints by significant and emerging printmakers who have been asked to draw inspiration from something quite fundamental to existence – the tree. Over 35 artists have been invited to respond to the tree. Artists have been sent a copper etching plate to create a limited edition print. Participating artists include Jeff Gardner, Kir Larwill, Di Orinda Burns, Sally Scott, Robert Maclaurin, Bridget Farmer, Anita Laurence, Judy Holding, Wendy Stavrianos, Rhyll Plant, David Frazer, Craig Gough, Liz Caffin, Jeff Makin, Clayton Tremlett, Lydia Poljak, Zoe Amor, Kareen Anchen, Helen Bodycomb, to mention just a few. Acclaimed Jeweller, Lisa Kennedy is planning to design and cast a limited edition of ten tree brooches, bound to be collected very quickly! The tree show is the second ‘special project’ initiated by Cascade after the enormous success of Biting Issues during the 2011 Castlemaine State Festival. Simultaneously, printmaker Kevin Foley will be featured in a solo exhibition at the Cascade Print Room. A new initiative by recently formed art group MANet, called Maldon Artist Walk, matches local business operators with local visual artists. The aim is for both parties to collaborate and to create a stand out shop window display in Maldon during the Castlemaine State Festival. Managers Kareen Anchen and Jeff Gardner took the plunge and opened Cascade Print Room in Maldon in December 2011. It is a very welcoming space and the high quality prints on display are already attracting a lot of attention from locals and tourists alike. The central location allows Kareen and Jeff to meet directly with their customers and to connect with the local community and it showcases to the public the unique artwork available at reasonable prices. Cascade Print Room is at 27 Main Street Maldon and has special hours during the State Festival when it will be open daily 10am – 5pm. Normal hours are 10am – 5pm Wednesday to Sunday. Closed Monday and Tuesday. www.cascadeprintroom.com.au
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The Good Move. Creswick, Clunes, Talbot
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By Ascend Public Relations
Sometimes in life you know something needs to change. It’s that moment when you become acutely aware that you’re no longer doing what you want to do or perhaps you have ceased to be who you want to be. It can be a difficult moment, but it is also a moment where exciting new opportunities can arise.
“We’d always considered the bit.ly/THhBKf country and had a two year old son and thought, now is the perfect time it was a giant leap of faith we held hands and closed our eyes and jumped and found ourselves in Clunes and we love it!” – Rebecca Russell
The Hepburn region is full of incredible opportunity. Many people are discovering that they can live a simpler, healthier, more creative life by moving to this region. To make this a little easier, The Good Move was initiated to assist people who are at that stage of considering making the move to this area, particularly Creswick and Clunes and a bit further afield – Talbot.
The Good Move provides an opportunity to connect with people like Rebecca who can share more about their town and this area. They are an invaluable resource for anyone exploring a change like this. The initiative leverages from the Victorian Government’s Good Move campaign based on research that 11% of Melburnians are looking for the good country life in the next three years.
These towns are part of the Victorian Government’s Advancing Country Towns program in which Hepburn Shire and Central Goldfields Shire play a key role. Part of the great thing about these towns is that they’re not isolated. They have a great small community feel but their close proximity to the larger centres of Ballarat, Maryborough and Daylesford ensure that they have the best services and facilities.
You can do thisl via the Facebook page. The various contributors share information about jobs, houses and community activities for everyone to see and share with their friends. There are also videos from people who have made the move and you can hear some of their story. It’s exciting to see what it can mean for people.
Those who have made the move say reduced mortgage stress, increased sense of community and room to enjoy the great outdoors were significant factors in their decision. They’ve also benefited from the excellent regional services and broad range of community activities.
So whether you are planning a trip to the region for a few hours, a few days or if you’re thinking of a more permanent tree change; The Good Move can help you connect. Just go to www. facebook.com/creswickclunestalbot and take a look around. It might be just the change you’re looking for!
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Stop Here A town that used to be known as “the place people drove through on the way to somewhere else” now has people placing it on the map as “somewhere they want to stop”. Creswick has morphed into a destination and has shaken off it’s “gee, what was that town we just went through” persona to one of “oh that’s the place with all the yummy food”. And yummy food is in abundance. For a small town of 2,000 odd residents, Creswick now proudly boasts a selection of food and dining choices envied by many other towns of comparable size. The American Hotel has long been the flag bearer for good meal choices, but owner Brendan and Wendy Smith have waved the flag very vigorously over recent years with the tastefully decorated function rooms, quality bed and breakfast rooms and splendid dining, with a surprisingly good wine list. Just a few toe hops down the street is Cocoa Chy Chocolate Café, where the hand made chocolates are “to die for” and over summer, the home made ice cream will have you coming back time and time again. Naomi and Sue Vinden, creators of Cocoa Chy haven’t even had their third birthday yet, but they have already extended with a deck and soon to be courtyard. Across the road is the exceptional Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese cellar door. Nardia and Andrew Keene started making cheese commercially seven years ago and opened their shop in Creswick mid 2011. Since that time they too have grown and now offer an expanding range of regional produce and wine. They have also added a courtyard, making cheese tasting all the more enjoyable. The selection of dining in the main street extends to Smokey Town and Lemon Tree Cafés
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bit.ly/11CPNuh and a new patisserie Le Peche Gourmand with the newest kid on the block being Red Fox Deli. All these food choices have some locals referring to the precinct as “the Paris end of Creswick”.
Just a bit out of town, heading toward Daylesford is the Tangled Maze and Tangles Function Centre. When people refer to a venue as having something for everyone, they must have had the Tangled Maze in mind. The Maze, mini golf and other games keep the whole family entertained and the café is great for a snack or children’s parties. The nursery is renowned for its heritage roses and the function centre is perfect for weddings, conferences and any special occasion. At the other end of town, heading toward Ballarat is the outstanding Novotel Forest Resort. A five star accommodation, conference and function facility with world class golf course, health spa and a variety of dining options including Harvest 383 restaurant. It could be said that Creswick’s re-emergence is driven by food, but that isn’t where the story ends. There are great attractions in and around town, with bushwalking, swimming, bike tracks or just enjoying the gorgeous architecture and the Creswick Woollen Mills. Now with the rail line reopened, there’s no excuse not to visit.
Goldfields Farmhouse Also Turns 7 It is the seventh birthday for Secrets Magazine and it was also for Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese in October, a time to reflect on what has passed and what we have achieved. There are occasions when I look around the dairy and wonder how we managed to pull it all together. When we started we had two small children aged one month and 18 month old. Any “How to start a small business” book will tell you not to do it with a young family. But our children were (and are) fantastic. As our family and the business have grown older they have evolved around each other. We had been dreaming of becoming cheese makers since 2002 and were finally putting the wheels in motion while I was on maternity leave with our first child in 2004. I was not
CHOCOLATIER & CAFÉ
A small slice of the international world of chocolate can be found in the historic town of Creswick in Central Victoria.
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making much progress but when we discovered baby number 2 bit.ly/TBNTUy was on the way we went into overdrive. The plan was to have the dairy up and running two months before the baby arrived. That did’nt happen. Our first two batches of cheese end up in the bin, but the third was a goer. We rolled up to our first farmers’market with two cheeses, a fresh cheese we currently don’t make and Ballarat Feta. We were so excited by our sales that morning, then realised we didn’t not sell enough to cover the cost of the next week’s milk supply. I’m glad to say that things have changed. We now make 16 different cheeses and still experimenting with other cheeses, which we plan to introduce in the future. I am looking forward to the next 7 years.
C H E E S E
handmade specialty european semi-hard, white handmade cheeses & blue mould cheese local cows milk from HANDMADE Specialty European semi-hard, white & blue mould cheese from local cows milk
84 Albert Street, Creswick, Victoria 3363 (opposite the Post Office)
Phone. 03 5345 1150 Email. chocolate@cocoachy.com.au www.cocoachy.com.au
Open 8am-5pm daily Closed Wednesday
71A Albert St (Midland Hwy), Creswick. (10 min from Ballarat, 20 min from Daylesford) Open Friday to Monday 10am – 4:30pm Phone 0409 756 289 www.goldfieldsfarmhouse.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 19
No Carbon Footprint Here Five years ago when Secrets was in it’s infancy, we wrote about one of Creswick’s eccentrics - a lady who so loved her ponies that she would take them for walks around the town’s streets. To locals it was a common sight to see one of Liz Reid’s ponies hitched to a
post whenever she needed to pop into a shop, but to visitors, this was an unexpected bonus. Kids loved to pat the ponies, while Liz answered all the questions thrown at her by enthusiastic parents. Liz can still be found walking her ponies around town and the
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clip, clop of hooves and bit.ly/SFF4eX the squeak of leather on the trap is often heard when this intrepid team travel into town to pick up some groceries or to enjoy a coffee at one of Creswick’s cafes.
Tangles
The perfect country getaway Self Contained cottage located on a 300 acre Poll Hereford Cattle Stud. Peace and quiet and yet close to all the attractions of the region. 3832 Creswick/Newstead Road, Kingston 03 5345 6167 www.heatheringtoncottage.com.au
20 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au
Unique Weddings, Functions and Conferences Fabulous Gardens, Fantastic atmosphere. Dreams do come true. 2301 Midland Highway Springmount (Creswick) 03 5345 2847
www.tanglesfunctions.com.au
A New Team Brings An International Flavour Five years ago the Novotel Forest Resort arose out of the forest at Creswick and now prominently stands on the Midland Highway at the entrance to the town. A world class complex like the resort requires careful management and General Manager Michael Daviss has gathered around him a team with a mix of international experience and local knowledge including an Austrian Chef, Gerhard Zitzenbacher, a French
Director of Sales and Marketing, Albane Mahaut and bringing local knowledge to the mix as Conference Sales Manager is Daylesford’s Paul Green. With the influx of International and Australian conference attendees, the Novotel Forest Resort Creswick has come into the spotlight - and who would have thought that this once sleepy little town would one day step onto the international stage.
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bit.ly/Yz8akS It’s fair to say that slowly, but surely Creswick is rising to the challenge.
Functions
Café
B&B
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Present this ad for 50% off the price of a bottle of our house wine.
Dining
Open for lunch from 11:30 Tue-Sun Open for dinner 5:30 Mon-Sat. 90 Albert Street Creswick Phone 03 5345 2510 SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 21
It’s All Here By Daylesford & Macedon Ranges Tourism Daylesford is cementing its reputation as Australia’s premier spa destination. Tourists have certainly been visiting the area for our wealth of mineral springs for decades for holistic reasons, but we are seeing an emergence of the region as the wellbeing destination of choice for more self-indulgent reasons. With our lives becoming increasingly more hectic we are all looking for short breaks where we can invest in a little indulgence for ourselves – some “Me” time. The tourism industry in the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region has evolved to cater to our desire to fit as much indulgence into a 48 hour break as possible. Our region has become synonymous with luxurious spa treatments, indulgent shopping sprees and boutique
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accommodation, which have all contributed to perhaps our highest growth market, the “girls weekend away”. Central to most regions in Victoria and only 90 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD all contribute to making Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges the ideal girls’ getaway. Increasingly we are becoming known as one of Victoria’s best food provinces by gourmets and chefs alike. Here you can come and sample superb menus made from locally sourced produce that grows in abundance in our mineral-rich soils. Our region is attracting the attention of some of Australia’s best chefs and artisan producers all keen to take advantage of the riches our soils produce. Similarly, our wines are one of Victoria’s best-kept secrets. Although we have been producing wine for over 160
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years, visitors are only recently bit.ly/TBO2qP discovering our award winning whites including Sparkling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay as well as the traditional varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and peppery cool climate Shiraz. The region’s cold climate and high altitude means that our wines are produced in small quantities of exceptionally high quality and the balance ensures our wines are a superb match for a wide range of food. While Daylesford has always been a hero in our region we are witnessing the growth of the emerging destinations of unique villages such as Kyneton, Trentham and Bacchus Marsh, all offering a unique visitor experience with their eclectic mix of art, food and history all within 10-15 minutes driving distance.
The Rex Revived When Daylesford’s Rex Arcade was being created it caused some controversy in the town, being labeled as a potential “white elephant”. It’s fair to say that it has seen it’s difficult times and was on the point of closing with only two shops still operating, when Karen Hemming owner of Yang with Yin clothing store took over the management in May of this year. In that time, Karen – who calls herself a quiet achiever,
has revitalized the arcade and now there is only one vacant space. There is also a small theatre being built in the
complex that will be available for staging a huge variety of community events, giving the Daylesford community some
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ownership in the complex. bit.ly/TEZzZZ The Rex Arcade now houses an array of very interesting traders including a café, chocolate shop and interior design studio. No longer are people passing the doors, they are actually walking in and exploring. It seems that after some rather painful teething problems, The Rex Arcade has come into it’s own.
Alpaca Fashion is for summer too Warm, snuggly and cosy alpaca fashion isn’t something you would normally think about in summer, however Alpaca Passion in Daylesford have a huge range of “High Summer” styles that are gorgeous, colourful, light and breezy and very affordable. There is also a lovely range of accessories that suit any season – besides there is no better time to plan your wardrobe for the cooler months than when you’re not shivering. Alpaca Passion is open 7 days, so you have no excuse for not exploring the exciting range, but if you want to see an alpaca-breeding farm or are even interested in acquiring your own gorgeous fluffy friend, what better time to visit the farm than the long summer holidays. The kids will love you for it. For more information on both Alpaca Fashion and Buckland Valley Alpacas visit the websites, www.alpacapassion.com.au and www.bucklandvalleyalpacas.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 23
From Spain to Hepburn Springs We had been invited to experience fine dining at The Argus Dining Room in Hepburn Springs iconic hotel, Peppers and it certainly was an experience. The food is superb - light, modern with flavours that work impeccably. Executive Chef David Willcocks is more than a chef - he is an artist, both in technique and presentation - some dishes are almost too pretty to eat, but eat you must. The dishes are modern, light and satisfying. It’s obvious that much thought has been given to the quality and integrity of the ingredients used in all dishes. Joining the team as Executive Chef in June 2012, David was inspired by the commitment of owners Chris Malden and Wayne Cross to supply the kitchen with rare breed beef, rare breed lamb, orchard fruit and vegetables from their Birch Estate Farm. Buying direct from farmers is a concept David was very familiar with in Spain and although Hepburn Springs is thousands of miles away from the world renowned ‘Schilo Kitchen’ at the 5 Star Hotel Finca Cortesin in Malaga, where he worked as Executive Sous Chef for three years - in many ways it couldn’t be more similar. “At Schilo Kitchen we would have producers knocking on the door and coming to us with local produce,” said David. “They would bring along things like fresh fish, mushrooms, wildflowers or herbs, it was a great way of working”. In Hepburn Springs Chris and Wayne are working in a similar way and as their 24 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au
orchard and vegetable plot grows so will the variety of fresh local produce on the menu. David is also working with other local producers to buy direct and source quality local ingredients that can be used to star on the menu.
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So how did David find his way to Hepburn Springs? A story in the newspaper and a touch of serendipity was to blame “I had read an article about the Argus and was really interested in what the restaurant was doing with local produce and fine dining in regional Victoria,” he said. “Then I noticed a position vacant advertisement so I applied and was lucky enough to get the job.” Now with his Spanish wife, David has settled in Daylesford and has made the region his family’s home. David adds: “The main priority is to work toward a busy restaurant and in time, to be recognised by peers from within the industry.” For now, David just wants his guests to come in, have a great meal and let the food speak for itself. “Using food in a modern way with a focus on flavour and simplicity is what we’re all about. We want people to eat here, enjoy themselves and tell their friends about it.” The Argus Dining Room is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and you can learn more or make a booking by visiting www.theargusdiningroom.com.au
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Birch Estate farm, is the find out more.... inspiration of Chris Malden and Wayne Cross, two business men who stepped into agriculture in 2007. Birch Estate was bought with sustainability and food bit.ly/Yz9nJa production in mind, to naturally raise and care for their livestock. Wayne says they always had the vision that its sheep, cattle and fresh produce would supply food to the hotel – Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs. “It was one way we could control quality of meat and fresh produce for the restaurant,” Wayne says. Stocking the farm with rare breed animals was a conscious decision and Chris says “We wanted to do something different with the cattle and sheep and through friends we were introduced to the British Whites, Highlands and Hampshire Downs and we haven’t looked back.” The animals, whilst grown for the food market, live a stress free life amidst the rolling hills and lush grasses of Smeaton. Chris and Wayne have taken their sustainable “paddock to plate” philosophy a step further by planting and growing a variety of fruits and vegetables on the farm that can be a source of fresh, quality produce for their restaurant - The Argus Room at Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat. SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 25
Jeremy O’Carroll – A Man At Full Speed Jeremy O’Carroll is an author. He is also a successful businessman running his Reiki practice and a number of business ventures, so it came as no surprise to learn that it had taken him nine years to write his first novel – “Full Speed”. At eighteen, Jeremy knew he wanted to be a writer, but it has taken him twenty years to achieve his long held dream. Sitting in his garden in Daylesford, Jeremy says that he would like to move more into writing and one day be able to support himself through his
novels and his first novel is only the start of many that are in his mind. In fact, his second novel is already well under way and expected to be released in mid 2013. In his youth, Jeremy lived in Italy for a year, where Full Speed is set, but it is nonbiographical. Despite some parallels with his own life, Jeremy insists that the main character is far removed from himself. He went on to say that “to be a writer is like being an actor, you have to get into
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the role and think like the bit.ly/VlQZvs character you’re writing about”. We will be reviewing Full Speed in the autumn issue of Secrets, but in the meantime the limited-edition, hardback version can be purchased from the website www. fullspeedbook.com where you can learn more about the author himself, as interesting as anyone he can write about.
Boomerang Holiday rancH
Come and have the time of your life horseback riding through picturesque bushland in Daylesford’s beautiful ‘Spa Country’ All rides are fully supervised by experienced leaders. Helmets supplied. Please call to make a booking. ACCreDiteD by AuStrAliAn CAmPS ASSoCiAtion
Tipperary Springs Road, Daylesford Phone 03 5348 2525 info@boomerangranch.com.au
26 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au
Dinner Thursday–Tuesday from 6pm Lunch Friday–Tuesday from 11am Menu from $9.50–$22 Breakfast On weekends from 9am Tuesday Night Curry & Hotpot $18 Friday Night Fish Night with wine $25.50 A La Carte also available
www.bodywise.com.au
Speciality butcher selling our own farm grown venison and goat. Smallgoods, cheese, condiments, suckling pig, Inglewood Aged Beef and other game meats available.
Shop 3, 9 Howe Street, Daylesford • Phone 03 5348 3551 www.spavension.com.au • info@spavenison.com.au
1300 66 17 66
Shop 19, 130 High Street, Woodend
Next to new Woodend Post Office Fitting appointments essential
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Shop 2, 52A Vincent St, Daylesford VIC 3460 (located in Coles walkway off Vincent Street)
t: 03 5348 4277 | e: info@threadneedle.com.au www.threadneedle.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 27
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A Snapshot of the Macedon Ranges Rolling farmland, historic streetscapes and world class events, woven together by diverse towns and tiny villages make the Macedon Ranges region an ever changing, exceptional part of Victoria – right on Melbourne’s doorstep. Located less than an hours’ drive from Melbourne and renowned for its semi-rural lifestyle, the Macedon Ranges is a prosperous region that is slowly growing in population and reputation. Tourism is an important and growing industry in the Macedon Ranges. The profile of gourmet food and wine, major events, and natural attractions such as the iconic Hanging Rock have been elevated by award winning businesses, products and high profile visitors such as Rod Stewart and Leonard Cohen. Visitation to the region continues to grow and the introduction of new high
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quality accommodation is encouraging visitors to extend from a day trip to an overnight stay, particularly around major events. Farmers Markets now take place every weekend in various villages across the region, supporting fresh and healthy lifestyles and the amazing growth of the foodie movement - encouraging everyone to be a gourmet chef! Piper Street, Kyneton, is bustling with boutique shopping, cafes and restaurants with many business owners choosing the rural yet stylish setting of Piper Street to achieve the elusive work/life balance. It’s no secret to Macedon Ranges’ residents that equine is the regions second largest industry and research supports this in the recently released Macedon Ranges Equine Strategy. The region recently received yet another
equine accolade with the 2012 Melbourne Cup winner being trained locally at Macedon Lodge. Thoroughbred racing is a constant feature on the annual events calendar with the long running New Years Day Races at Hanging Rock a key must see event. Residents of the Macedon Ranges have scored their wellbeing as 80.1 out of 100 in a recent VicHealth survey, which is above the state average. This can be directly associated with the relaxed lifestyle, welcoming communities, family activities and fresh country air that is available to both residents and visitors. The Macedon Ranges is always growing and developing as a destination with unique experiences on offer that can meet the most discerning visitor’s needs, from events to natural attractions, restaurants to cooking classes, wineries to mineral springs the options are endless.
Get The Habit Occupying a delightful weatherboard building in Piper Street, Kyneton, Country Habit Clothing and Homeware is a delightful shop and the pride and joy of owner Fran Wigley. Get the habit, visit this little store in the centre of Piper Street, to find clothing for all the family, sleepwear, babywear, Merino Possum products, bags, baskets, and all things for country living. Quality homewares are a specialty - beautiful bed linen, table linen & accessories, Portmeirion Botanic Garden china, delicious imported Italian soaps by Neste Danti, and American Voluspa candles. Looking for that special greeting card, choose from a great range featuring the works of many Central Victorian artists. Need that special hanky? See a very special range of pure cotton Swanky Hankies, sourced and made in Mudgee.
k t gs ll As bou din t a es a d sa u us We ion Ven B, nct ge B& Fu ran d an ur G o
CLEVELAND WINERY
Dine amongst the vines FRIDAY & SATURDAY DINNER: Choose from our a’la carte or enjoy a sumptuous 3 course dinner.
SUNDAY BRUNCH (from 8am - 1pm): Country style buffet breakfast including pancakes and freshly cooked eggs any style. SUNDAY LUNCH (from 1pm - 3pm): A la carte gourmet fresh wood fire pizzas. Bookings essential. Call:5429 9000 today!
55 Shannons Road, Lancefield e: cleveland@grangecc.com.au
BELLINZONA
A country home is not complete without books, and here you will find a great range of the latest gardening, cooking and design titles. Visit Country Habit where new stock is arriving ALL the time. “The country habit has me by the heart”. Vita Sackville West 1926.
Sumptuous Savours SATURDAY HIGH TEA (from 12pm - 4pm): Served at your table in the beautiful Heritage Room SATURDAY DINNER: Choose from our a’la carte menu or enjoy a sumptuous 3 course dinner. Bookings essential. Call: 5348 2271 today!
77 Main Road, Hepburn Springs e: bellinzona@grangecc.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 29
Definition of Kyneton When people think of Kyneton, they immediately think – Piper Street and there’s no denying that strolling the street is an exercise in decision-making. The variety of food choices is only the start. From fine dining restaurants like Flouch’s to a simple café serving coffee and cake, no one will ever go hungry, especially when the appetite has been aroused by browsing the many retail outlets from crafts at Pick Up Stitches to clothing and more that you’ll find at Country Habit. But Piper
Street, wonderful and all as it is, is only one part of Kyneton. Mollison Street, usually seen as the commercial precinct with its banks and post office and other suppliers of the day to day practical commodities, also has its unusual gems – think Monsieur Pierre for take away and Mollisons for accommodation and gifts. Then around the corner into High Street and the food and retail choices are once again daring you to choose. It seems there are plenty of cuisines to entice and unusual shops
like Lakshmi’s Circle with a bit.ly/WIN4u1 wide range of goodies, both mainstream and esoteric and further up High Street is Chai Baby who specialize in chai tea and interesting paraphernalia to keep you well and truly engaged. There is so much more to Kyneton than we can convey in this space and it’s hard to define the town to do it justice, so you need to visit to find out for yourself.
Chai Baby Specialising in chai teas and tea paraphernalia. Gifts, cards, jewellery, scarves, bags, hats, toys, tasty affordable meals, licensed. Lea Stein specialists.
Patchwork
70 High St, Kyneton 03 5422 6968 Open Wed - Sun, 9am-5pm
Quilting Knitting Yarn Patterns Kits Classes Scented Giftware Anne Klein Watches
Opening hours... Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri 10am-4pm Sat & Sun 10am-2pm (Closed Tuesdays)
30 Piper Street, Kyneton 3444 Phone 03 5422 6614
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Lancefield or Lazarus? Lancefield, once a town with more than its share of empty shops, no supermarket, no bakery, no butcher, no greengrocer, in fact ten years ago there wasn’t much of anything. However, an influx of families choosing to live a country life, yet wishing to remain within easy access of Melbourne has brought about major changes. The main street is now full of vital businesses and more and the town now boasts a fantastic book shop, toy shop, two doctors clinics, expanded hardware store, a thriving milkbar and newsagency, a new Neighbourhood Centre, a highly regarded Opportunity Shop, a beautician and day spa and pretty much everything you need. Plus it is close to Kilmore, Kyneton and Woodend for those extras. This may not sound very exciting to those living in
suburbia who have all these facilities around every corner, but to a country town that struggled, it’s utopia.
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Added to this is one of the best run and interesting farmers markets that occupies the centre of the main street every month. Put this very attractive town on your “must visit list”, particularly on market day.
Every 4th Saturday of the month. Enquiries: 0407 860 320
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 31
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A Unique Destination The Pyrenees Shire offers an amazing experience for visitors with its vast range of activities and distinct places. The Shire has really emerged as a unique tourist destination that has offered something for every age and interest over the last 7 years. We have grown to incorporate fine dining and bushwalking - to action packed activities of bike riding, hang gliding and camping as well as our signature wine tasting. The Pyrenees is continuing to offer the opportunity to discover something new. Avoca in the North end of the shire has evolved in many ways that support the community and tourism sectors. The Avoca Resource Centre & Library underwent a major renovation in early 2011 that further enhanced its importance in the community and its dedication to supporting visitors. Changes in the Streetscape
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offer visitors an interesting retail and historical journey. Classic and emerging eateries in the area continue to win awards and offer many a culinary delight. The Avoca Hotel has seen new dedicated owners and snagged a Golden Plate Award in recent times.
locals are once again able to enjoy water sports. Rather than a Township, Beaufort has more of a village feel to it with many people who have opted for a tree change and a quieter lifestyle moving into the district.
Beaufort in the South end of the shire has had the re-instatement of the V Line trains. The trains make Beaufort very accessible to Ararat, Ballarat and Melbourne. Over the past few years’ people who work in Ballarat or Melbourne have relocated to Beaufort and now tourists can easily make the jump into the Shire and experience all the new goings on in The Beaufort Township.
The town of Amphitheatre has become host to the award winning Senses Ice Creamery, recently they have taken the Royal Melbourne, Royal Hobart and Dairy Institute awards. Feel free to pop in and have a chat to the owners John and Catherine about their incredible tree change. Meander into any of the local villages and see how the end of the drought has changed the landscape and face of the local communities.
In January, 2010 after years of drought the Beaufort Lake filled to capacity after major flooding. This brought back holiday makers to the Beaufort Lake Caravan Park and the
Also Buangor State Park and the Mount Cole State Forest have wonderful rebuilt walks and offer trails for even the most avid adventurer.
Beaufort – A Growing Village With an estimated population of around 987 people, Beaufort does rather well for itself and has grown in the past few years with a wide range of food options to encourage travellers to stop. Beaufort is a little surprise package. Possibly the standout attraction would have to be the Imperial Egg Museum and Gallery – with an amazing collection of egg art from around the world, this is arguably one of the largest collections of its kind anywhere and now with a tea room and wide range of
giftware, it is a great stop over, especially for groups. Across the road is The Tangled Vine – a mix of giftware, preloved clothes, jewellery, bags, fairy dresses and accessories and a large range of toys as well as craft supplies. With no less than fourteen food and dining options, Beaufort caters for all tastes and appetites. One of the most popular for take away – essential for those on the move – is the Beaufort Fish and Chip shop - reputed to
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make the best hamburgers bit.ly/UFkIDk in town and the fish and chips are pretty good too. This shop, right in the main street is always busy and you know if it attracts the locals, it has to be good. Beaufort also has an interesting monthly market with a broad mix of fresh produce, art and craft, fashion, jewellery, sculpture, books and bric-a-brac. Held on the first day of each month, its well worth a visit as is the town itself.
The Tangled Vine “Seek and you may find” 59 Neill Street, Beaufort Phone 03 5349 3151
70 Neill Street, Beaufort 03 5349 2399
TEA ROOMS This beautiful collection of Egg Art can be seen in the heart of Beaufort, opposite the bakery. 56 Neill St (Western Hwy) Beaufort T 03 5349 2138 E info@beaufortmotel.com Gallery and Tea Room open Thursday to Monday, 10am-4pm or by appointment. Buses and groups catered for.
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 33
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Central Goldfields Shire: Offering more than ever before The Central Goldfields Shire has experienced true renewal in the past decade. Having emerged from challenging times, it is now enjoying significant growth and transformation with more sights, sounds and delightful experiences than ever before, making it a fantastic travel destination. At the forefront of the changes is the iconic Maryborough Railway Station. Undergoing a $1.9 million restoration in 2007, passenger rail services were returned to Maryborough in 2010 making the town and surrounding district more accessible to travellers. These upgrades were further enhanced last year with the opening of the world class facility – Station Domain – a perfect welcome to rail travellers. The expansiveopen gardens, amphitheatre and historic buildings befit the region’s grandest tourist attraction. The development of the Station Domain facility has paved the way for new outdoor, free events. Seasonal festivals, such as Spring Fling and Summer in the Domain offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors at this splendid venue. Celebrating its rich history of the early goldfields era, Central Goldfields Shire now hosts a Heritage Festival. The Taste of Gold Heritage Weekend began in April, 2010 and is a true shire-wide experience. The smaller townships of Bealiba, Carisbrook, Dunolly and Talbot have their own unique history to celebrate, and each contributes to the list of events offered over the weekend. Long standing events such as the RACV Energy Breakthrough, the Maryborough Highland
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bit.ly/TBNK3l
Gathering and the Talbot Farmers Market have continued to grow. Now in its 22nd year, the RACV Energy Breakthrough attracts international teams, while the Highland Gathering has been a successful event for more than 150 years. Accommodation options have seen significant improvements with Maryborough now being a registered RV friendly town, with local caravan parks fully catering for motor homes. Stylish motels and b&b’s offer several accommodation options throughout the region. Further growth is recognised with the completion and opening of the MKM shopping precinct, providing new retail and dining experiences, and complementing the bustling High Street retail and dining precinct. Central Goldfields Shire has maximised its reputation as a cycling destination and made significant improvements to the bush cycling tracks that surround Maryborough and connect the smaller townships. Available, is Cycle Central Goldfields – a detailed map of all local cycling tracks, complete with marked attractions and resting points. Plans are currently underway for a Cobb and Co cycling track that will connect Ballarat and Maryborough via the historic town of Clunes. To complement and promote its tourism offer, Central Goldfields Shire launched Visit Maryborough - a new website with information on all there is to see and do www.visitmaryborough.com.au
Travelling With Pets
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If you plan to travel with your pet over the holidays there are a few things you’ll need to consider, especially in camping or bush areas. You have to be fully responsible for your dog, no matter what size and not let them wander unattended, especially allowing them to chase wildlife and livestock – remember farmers do have the right to shoot dogs they believe to be a threat if found on their property. Preparation is important. You wouldn’t forget your toothbrush would you, so don’t forget your pet’s needs for food, water and a safe and secure enclosure. Make sure your pet is microchipped as it may wander off in an unfamiliar environment and for their safety and your piece of mind; you need to ensure you can be reunited as soon as possible For your pet’s safety you need to be aware of snakes, kangaroos (they kick), water hazards even a chop from the BBQ can be of serious concern. Just like humans there may be a time when your pet requires first aid, so you need to be equipped with a standard first aid kit with a few animal products included, your vet can tell you what to take. Some excellent information about travelling with pets can be found on www.australianexplorer.com/pets. For more serious problems, like snake bite and tick infestation (although ticks aren’t a big problem in Victoria) prompt veterinary treatment is vital. Ask your vet for a list of veterinary clinics around the region you’ll be travelling to and their advise on what you should do if the unexpected may happen. A well-planned and thoughtful holiday can be wonderful for all the family including the four legged members of your household. Be prepared and have fun.
MARYBOROUGH - TALBOT - DUNOLLY CARISBROOK - BEALIBA - MOLIAGUL TIMOR - MAJORCA
Discover the history of the early goldfields while immersing yourself in the charm of provincial Victoria. Experience rare, cultural treasures in the villages of the goldfields and escape urban life.
For further information: Central Goldfields Visitor Information Centre Cnr. Alma & Nolan Streets, Maryborough, VIC 3465 P: 1800 356 511 E: visitorinfo@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au www.visitmaryborough.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 35
Summer Astrology
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by Lyndall McQuinn bit.ly/VBBemt
The prominent Sun Signs in summer are Capricorn which begins summer in the Southern Hemisphere, Aquarius and Pisces. Therefore the Full Moons in summer will be in the opposite signs of Cancer, Leo and Virgo. Capricorn Around Christmas is the strongest period for you, for better or worse. Generally you love traditions but not necessarily family so that can cause a paradox. The energy is strong for celebration over Christmas until Dec 28. Then maybe withdraw; vacation time to quieter respite to gather your thoughts. Cancer with your Full Moon virtually right on Christmas absorb all that love, and emotions and food and drink. Then roll off to the beach to expel the accumulation of responsibility due to excessive nurturing during the festive season. . You may want to exercise to off load the extra gained on the physical as well.
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Aquarius you may like a quieter vacation in January as both Mercury and Mars are joining your Sun Sign. This makes for lots of thinking and planning, thinking big. Maybe the time has come to get the ideas or concepts down on paper as they will all be washed away in February. If you are not the writing type then parties are on the agenda. The ideas need to be grounded. Leo this is your Full Moon time of year; great time for a Leo Full Moon in summer. This one will fall on the 27th of January, just in time for the long weekend. Even though Leo can like a party, maybe there is something a little special for you around this time. Any retreats or weekend adventures for the long weekend are yours to take. Pisces is busy right now and will be all summer. February has Mars and Mercury journeying along with the Sun. Venus will join them at the end of February
and two of the outer planets are involved as well. Both Neptune and Chiron are expressing in this sign too. For Pisceans who love to be active and focussed, probably only a few, forget it. Life is a wash out. Neptune changes perspectives daily and Chiron helps heal whatever you happen to stumble upon. February is a good vacation month for Pisces but don’t be frustrated if you feel non functional. It will pass. Virgo: Summer is a great time for health and healing. Chiron your ruler is opposite in Pisces affecting your perspectives. The methodical approaches you would normally apply to your life may be challenged by very intuitive insights in how to do things in differing ways. Be open to new ways of seeing. Aries rumbling change still affects your sign over this year 2013. Most of the time Uranus which is in Aries at present, is working in tandem with Pluto a square away in Capricorn. This indicates Aries are digging up deep
insight but Uranus says change and move on. Libra you can join your air sign friends of Aquarius and Gemini and get swept up in the mental whirlwinds of thoughts and talking and planning. All the influences within Aquarius and Gemini with Jupiter rehashing ideas flow evenly onto Libra. Plenty of fresh air and socialising fit with your agendas this summer. Gemini, Jupiter and her big ideas is retrograde in your sign all summer. This will allow you to pick up ideas that you put down because thoughts were going too fast and re- evaluate them. So if you have been berating yourself for not being productive, maybe summer is your time.
Sagittarius doesn’t need to be told twice to think big and be bold. The influence of Jupiter from across the wheel allows for new exciting ideas to come from others be they friends or strangers. For once someone else may come up with the plan. Surprise situations that may have occurred at the end of Spring, may well fall into place more easily now. Sudden change is still in the offing for some Sagittarians. Taurus you may have to deal with authority issues that don’t begin with you. Saturn is across the wheel in Scorpio and means that others may try to assert authority over your life. You usually like to be the one in charge, all for the right reasons of course but you may find that your bullish ways meet with a challenge. You can learn much about power over the summer and throughout the year.
Scorpio; well if Spring wasn’t enough here comes summer. Saturn has entered your sign and this may make life a little trying. Scorpio usually thrives on power, one way or another but Saturn is controlling. This may be a time where you learn to discipline your power plays or you may find others are trying to discipline you. Now that will be interesting. For a personal reading with Lyndall call 0428 425 923 or www.lyndallmcquinn.com
Lyndall McQuinn
Are you a writer? Do you want to see your story in print? Enter our short story competition and you could see your story appearing in the Autumn issue of Secrets, featured on our website and also receive a hamper of delicious regional produce. To receive an application form call us on 5345 7260 or email secrets@knowersark.com.au Alternatively you can like us on Facebook and request an application form.
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 37
Markets & Visitor Information Centres Visitor Information Centres
Markets EVERY SATURDAY WESLEY HILL MARKETS
Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine 7.30am – 1pm Ph: 0418 117 953 EVERY SUNDAY
DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET
Daylesford Railway Station, Daylesford 8am – 4pm, Ph: 03 5348 3503 1 ST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
BALLAN COMMUNITY MARKET
Lions Club, Main Street Ph: 03 5368 1203 BEAUFORT MARKET
Memorial Park, Beaufort 9am - 1pm Ph: 5349 1184 Mob: 0448 192 087
DARLEY MARKET BACCHUS MARSH Darley Football Oval, Fitzroy Street 7am – 1pm Ph: 0488 345 145 TRENTHAM FARMERS MARKET Trentham Town Square, High Street Ph: 03 5424 1185 4 th SATURDAY OF THE MONTH LANCEFIELD FARMERS MARKET High Street 9am-1pm Ph: 0407 860 320 1 ST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH CASTLEMAINE FARMERS MARKET Victory Park 9.00am-1pm Ph: 03 5470 6340
DARLEY MARKET BACCHUS MARSH
GISBORNE ALL SEASONS MARKET
Darley Football Oval, Fitzroy Street 7am – 1pm Ph: 0488 345 145
Gisborne Village Shopping Centre 9am-3pm Ph: 03 5426 2448
DAYLESFORD FARMERS MARKET Daylesford Primary School Oval, Vincent St. Daylesford Ph: 0421 458 891
GISBORNE FARMERS AND PRODUCE MARKET
WOODEND FARMERS MARKET High Street, Woodend 9am – 1pm Ph: 0407 860 320
2 ND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BALLAN FARMERS MARKET
Mill Cottage, Inglis Street Ph: 0498 361 291 BALLARAT LAKESIDE FARMERS MARKET*
9am-1pm Ph: 03 5428 3043 MARYBOROUGH SUNDAY TOURIST MARKET Carisbrook Trotting Complex, Maryborough 8am-1:30pm Ph: 03 5461 2819
3 RD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH TALBOT FARMERS MARKET
Scandinavian Crescent and Camp Street 9am–1pm Ph: 03 5463 2001
(also last Saturday of the month) Lake Wendouree Ballarat 9am – 1pm Ph: 03 03 9528 4985
WOODEND MARKET High Street Ph: 03 5427 2255
BENDIGO COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET
4 TH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Rosalind Park end of Williamson St. 9am – 1pm Ph: 0498 186 491 www.bcfm.org.au KYNETON FARMERS MARKET & KYNETON MAKERS MARKET
St Paul’s Park, Piper Street, Kyneton 8am-1pm Ph: 03 5422 1025 3 RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BUNNINYONG FARMERS MARKET
Buninyong Town Hall 9am –1pm Ph: 03 5341 3080
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AVOCA RIVERSIDE MARKET
0488 177 647
DUNOLLY MARKET
Broadway, Dunolly Jeff Monk 03 5468 1623 TRENTHAM MARKET Victoria Street 9am-2pm Ph: 03 5424 8223
Avoca Visitor Information Centre 03 5465 1000 www.pyrenees.org.au Bacchus Marsh Visitor Info. Centre 03 5367 7488 www.discoverbacchusmarch.org Ballarat Visitor Information Centre 1800 446 633 www.visitballarat.com.au Beaufort Visitor Information Centre 03 5349 2604 www.pyrenees.org.au Bendigo Visitor Information Centre 1800 813 153 www.bendigotourism.com Castlemaine Visitor Info. Centre 1800 171 888 www.maldoncastlemaine.com.au Central Goldfields Visitor Info. Centre 03 5460 4511 www.visitmaryborough.com.au Clunes Tourist Information Outlet 03 5345 3896 www.visitclunes.com.au Creswick Interperative Centre 03 5345 1114 www.visitcreswick.com.au Daylesford Visitor Information Centre 03 5321 6123 www.visitdaylesford.com.au Heathcote Visitor Information Centre 03 5433 3121 www.heathcote.org.au Kyneton Visitor Information Centre 03 5422 6110 www.visitmacedonranges.com Maldon Visitor Information Centre 03 5475 2569 www.maldoncastlemaine.com Trentham Visitor Information Outlet 03 5424 1178 www.visittrentham.com.au Woodend Visitor Info. Centre 03 5427 2033 www.visitmacedonranges.com
bulk organic wholefoods bulk biodegradable cleaning products fair trade coffee & tea kids playground café - coffee/tea/snacks 63 urquhart st woodend, vic 3442 03 5427 1998 ethicwoodend@hotmail.com
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GOOD FOOD GUIDE 2012 REVIEWED BY
12-14 Piper Street, Kyneton 3444 Phone 03 5422 3683
www.flouchs.com.au
SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 34 | 39
In this issue... Produce to Platter Interview with the authors Jonette George & Daniele Wilton I Heart Bendigo Bryley Drummond talks about her love for her new home town Bendigo Tram NineSevenSix Simon Lock’s review on Bendigo’s tram restaurant From Spain to Hepburn Springs Chef David Willcocks & The Argus Room
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