ISSUE 45 SPRING 2015 PRICELESS
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14 + 15 November 2015 Winegrowers around the Macedon Ranges invite you to their cellar doors to sample more than 100 exceptional wines. Only $15 admission to over 20 wineries all weekend, includes a tasting glass. Go online to book your weekend pass and secure your seat for one of the wine dinners, lunches and degustations.
www.budburst.com For tickets visit trybooking: www.trybooking.com/HQoJ
Cover - “Butterflies” by David Bromley
CONTENTS 5 6 9 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 25 26 27 28
Youth Parliament, The Hope For Tomorrow The Bromley Factor Stonefield at The Rock Ollie and The Archibald The Beauty in Bokeh Fashion and Fine Art Fusion in Bendigo Bendigo Under Moonlight Silversmiths Shine in Castlemaine Fashionista Sisters of The Goldfields Gardens, Gifts, Butterflies and a Gorgeous Café 5 Things I Know for Sure It’s Not Too Early to Think Christmas Creswick on a Plate Pork Pies Down Under A Gong For Perricoota Retreat Festival Fun A Marathon of Events in Loddon Shire
29 29 30 31 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 43
Heathcote Wine and Food Festival Arts of Seymour Swiss Italia Festa Beth Brings Her Bouzouki to Maldon The Art of Celebrating The Gentle Art of Winemaking Wine & Food at The Cosmo Who Says Kids Are Selfish! Shades of Gray Unveil The Garden A Foot in Both Camps Holistic Therapy Centre in Creswick Leadership Training in Blampied In The Pink Gardening Made Easy
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FROM THE EDITOR Ok, it’s official, the Bureau of Meterology has reported that 2015 has been the coldest winter in 26 years and don’t we know it. We’ve all been in the same fridge, so I’ll move on to rejoicing about the anticipation of sunnier, warmer days ahead. At least that was my intention until our “mower man” reminded me that we’ll be seeing snakes soon. Can’t wait! Snow and snakes notwithstanding, our spring issue is a bit of a cracker, from our gorgeous cover of a painting by renowned artist David Bromley who with wife Yuge, a fashion designer, spoke to us about how they now call Hepburn Springs home and plan to do so for many years to come. We also spoke to some young people who are an inspiration for all ages. Nineteen-year-old, Lydia Edwards, currently studying at Canberra’s Australian National University returned to Victoria to participate in the State Government’s Youth Parliament presenting a Bill legislating that supermarkets donate their excess food to the needy. Another young person concerned about the needy, is 12-year-old Creswick schoolboy Oscar Broad who collects and
donates food and warm socks for Ballarat’s homeless. Then we caught up with four sisters from Durraweit Greim who make up rock band Stonefield and who will be supporting Jimmy Barnes at Hanging Rock in November. We profile the brilliant and prestigious Archibald Art Prize hosted this year by the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, a coup for the regional gallery. Historically spring has been the start of the festival season and there are plenty on offer this year. We look at just a few with our Festivals feature. Another new feature that we plan to expand is health and wellbeing and each season we will profile a different modality that has moved into the mainstream. ARE YOU A WRITER OR ASPIRE TO BE? We are open to receiving expressions of interest from interested contributing writers. If you feel you can write about the diversity of the people and places of our region, please contact us. Email your expression of interest to norma@secretsmagazine.com.au and enjoy spring when it finally arrives. Editor Norma Morton
ISSUE 45 SPRING 2015 Published by
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PO Box 356 Creswick VIC 3363 03 5348 1919 info@secretsmagazine.com.au www.secretsmagazine.com.au
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Norma Morton Linley Wilkie Nick Morton Kerry Mitchell Adam Brentnall Lyndall McQuinn, Stephen Read
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. 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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YOUTH PARLIAMENT, THE HOPE FOR TOMORROW Among the young Victorians who gathered at Melbourne’s Parliament House this year for the YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament was Glenlyon’s Lydia Edwards. The 19-year-old is studying Law/International Relations at Canberra’s Australian National University and jumped at the chance to return to Victoria and learn about the state’s political system. “This was an opportunity to be in an environment where people really cared about the policy they made and wrote, as well as debating other issues that are important to society,” she says. “In a way it felt like this is how politics should be and it was nice to experience that for a week.” Youth Parliament gives Victorians aged between 16 and 25 the opportunity to voice their opinions on relevant issues to the highest level of State Government. Participants debate the issues in the Legislative Council Chambers of Parliament House and at the conclusion of this process, the Bills that have passed through Youth Parliament are handed to the Premier for consideration. Lydia and her fellow Youth Parliamentarians chose a Bill legislating supermarkets to donate their excess food to the needy. “Most food goes to waste before it reaches supermarket shelves because people don’t want to buy food with blemishes,” she says. “The facts are pretty shocking, but they also indicate that
to address issues such as hunger in Victoria, more food doesn’t need to be produced, it just needs to be distributed better. Our main focus was solving the issue of food wastage and giving it to people in need was an added bonus of the Bill. We also restricted the size of businesses that would be required to donate food so that as an initial Bill it would not be too excessive – it is supermarkets that are the biggest wasters, not small stores.” Lydia says Youth Parliament is taken seriously by politicians, who make time to chair the debates. “It made me see that perhaps question time is not as intimidating as it seems,” she says. “I really did enjoy hearing the politicians tell us what they did and reading and analysing Bills was fun.” Lydia notes that many previous Bills that have passed Youth Parliament eventually became law in Victoria, which gives her confidence that the voice of young people matters. “It is a pretty proud moment when you stand in the chamber and say something, because you are essentially doing what the politicians do,” she says. “You realise politicians are also just people, not any more exceptional than anybody else. And you certainly realise that you can have a stronger involvement in politics than you perhaps thought.”
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THE BROMLEY FACTOR David and Yuge Bromley are the first to admit they lead double lives. Throwing conventional living out the window, they commute between Melbourne, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs with their two-year-old daughter Wen, time not dictated by weekdays and weekends, but meetings, appointments and other work commitments. In the city, the artistic couple survive on takeaway food and accumulate parking tickets, as they flit between their store-cum-galleries in Windsor and The Block Arcade. When they land at their regional base however, they kiss the earth beneath them, thankful for the trees, their vegetable garden, and being able to cook in a kitchen. Hepburn has been home for the past two years, following a similar length stint in Byron Bay. “I’ve always loved Melbourne as a city, so when David said ‘Let’s move’, I thought, ‘I don’t
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necessarily need to be in Byron anymore, let’s go back’,” Yuge says. “The thought of Daylesford was just perfect, I couldn’t imagine a better mix.” “I know I’ve never felt more at home than we do in Victoria,” adds David. “I never thought I’d have that feeling, it’s amazing.” One of Australia’s most recognised artists, David is known for his bronze sculptures, together with his paintings depicting either childhood antics or female nudes. Yuge was a successful criminal lawyer, before launching her eponymous fashion label in 2012. “I’d put so much work into my legal career, to move into something else certainly wasn’t approached as a little hobby. One way or another it was going to work,” she says. “It’s been three years since I started my label and I
area, the cultural component is incredibly important. “I’ve always been interested in places like Byron and Noosa where there are shopping strips and separate industrial estates housing artisans, yoga studios, and landscaping centres. It’s very earthy.”
feel like the traction’s just building now. I think that’s about right – it should take a bit of time to build. I quite like the idea of a slow burn.” The Bromley’s personal relationship also became professional in June last year, with the formation of Bromley & Co. “We’ve tried to build a brand that encompasses more than just David’s artwork,” explains Yuge. “It’s about the ‘Co’ and all the other artists we admire and like surrounding ourselves with.”
It’s what’s bubbling away in the spa town that currently has the Bromley’s incredibly excited. A sculpture exposé this spring (born out of what David describes as “the biggest sculpture making session of my life”) at Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel, and next year’s collaboration with motorcycle apparel company, Saint, shows anything is possible. “We’re both adrenalin junkies, but we’re not going to tie something around our waist and jump off a bridge,” says David. “For me, if you’re not pushing the boundaries you’re taking up too much air, all those clichés. They all make sense to me.” “I think we both are unashamedly ambitious,” says Yuge, before David chimes in, “All our creative heroes pushed the boundaries”. For more information on Bromley & Co., visit www.bromleyandco.com
Bromley & Co. encompasses not just retail, but a myriad of creative and collaborative projects, some of which take place in East Street Gallery, just a stone’s throw from the Vincent Street store in the heart of Daylesford. “We’re really lucky that they’re so close but really quite different,” says David. “The scale and the size (of East Street) make it stand alone. There’s not much you couldn’t do there, so it’s a big, long-term vision.” Having signed a 20-year lease on the building earlier this year, it has already been the unique setting for a number of exhibitions, weddings and a Kate Ceberano gig. “It’s wonderful that you can be two streets back from the main road and feel like you’re in the industrial estate but with beautiful country around you,” says Yuge. “I think that adds to the experience and puts you in the mindset that you’re not in the bustle of the city, or even the bustle of the main street.” David says he’s inspired by regional galleries in the UK where he was born, growing up in South Australia, while Yuge hails from China, growing up in New Zealand). David thinks if you’re going to forge something in a regional
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STONEFIELD AT THE ROCK Hanging Rock must rank among the world’s most unique concert venues, the iconic landmark acting as a spectacular backdrop for the likes of Leonard Cohen, Rod Stewart and Bruce Springsteen. Music fans will descend on The Rock again this November, for the first time to enjoy an all-Australian line up. Together with headline act Cold Chisel, Aussie rock royalty Mark Seymour and The Living End, will be four sisters who grew up 20 minutes from The Rock in the tiny town of Darraweit Guim on the edge of the Macedon Ranges. Better known as Stonefield, the Findlay sisters, Amy, Hannah, Sarah and Holly range in age from 25 to 17 and next year the rock band will celebrate 10 years in the music industry, a decade that began with gigs at the local Wallan pub and progressed to winning Triple J’s Unearthed High competition, two EP’s, an album, supporting the likes of Tex Perkins and an appearance at Glastonbury. In what arguably must be a forthcoming highlight to date, a fortnight before hitting the Hanging Rock stage, Stonefield will perform at Geelong’s A Day on the Green alongside Fleetwood Mac. “There’s so many amazing artists in Australia, we’re honoured to be
picked for Cold Chisel, but Fleetwood Mac being international, that’s pretty crazy,” says Stonefield’s lead singer, drummer and oldest sister, Amy. “We definitely don’t take it for granted and think of ourselves as pretty lucky.” After watching Bruce Springsteen’s gig at Hanging Rock, Amy says the band are excited to also play on the world’s most scenic stage. “It’s such a cool setting for a gig, with that amazing view behind the stage, and so close to home.” While she now lives in Melbourne, Amy says she’d always pick country life over city living. “It’s such a picturesque area and where we live is on top of a hill, so there’s a really nice view,” she says. “It really had an impact on us playing in a band together, because friends lived a lot further away so we spent a lot of time together growing up, just hanging out.” Did they ever visit Hanging Rock? “We went there for picnics,” she laughs. The unintentional reference within her reply is not lost on either of us. Stonefield will perform at Hanging Rock on 21 November. For more information visit www.hangingrockconcerts.com.au
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PRE-PURCHASE YOUR BALLARAT TICKETS
IT’S RUDE NOT TO STARE
AN ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES TOURING EXHIBITION
VENUE PARTNERS Education Partner
Image: 2015 Archibald Prize finalist, Carla Fletcher Jenny Kee (detail), mixed media on linen, 203 x 153.5 cm, © the artist, Photo: © AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins
OLLIE AND THE ARCHIBALD It’s the type of exhibition many galleries can only dream of, but for the Art Gallery of Ballarat, the dream becomes a reality this October and November, as the first port of call on The Archibald Prize regional tour, and the only stop outside New South Wales. The Archibald is arguably Australia’s favourite art prize and one of its most prestigious. Awarded to the best portrait painting, it features a glittering line-up of notable Australians, from politicians and celebrities, to sporting heroes and artists. Among the faces featuring this year is successful model, activist, founder of politically-driven art project House of Riot and former Ballarat schoolgirl, Olivia “Ollie” Henderson. Her portrait was painted by artist Kim Leutwyler, whom she met through mutual friends. “Kim creates paintings of LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex) identified and queer allied women who have impacted her life in some way,” Ollie says. “I feel very flattered that she considers me to be one of them.” Ollie also feels incredibly honoured to be not only part of the Archibald Prize, but also its inclusion in Ballarat. “The Archibald has hung some outstanding Australian figures and I feel so privileged to now be a part of that,” she says. “And Ballarat has a great cultural scene that is developing and growing strongly. I feel proud to call it my hometown.”
seen by our leading artists. It is an event that is hugely popular and often controversial. It is an exhibition that is always challenging the way we see ourselves and our society.” The Art Gallery of Ballarat has collected artworks by many Archibald winners and finalists in its 94-year history. It is anticipated that visitors from Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania will visit Victoria’s oldest and largest regional gallery to see the exhibition. A program of events across the six weeks will include artist talks, forum/discussion event, concerts and Gallery guided tours. Other events will also take place across Ballarat.
Art Gallery of New South Wales director Michael Brand said one of the most important aspects of the Archibald Prize is the regional touring exhibition, which gives people living outside capital cities an opportunity to enjoy the exhibition. “We are delighted to partner with the Art Gallery of Ballarat this year to present Australia’s most extraordinary art event to audiences in our southern states,” he says. Art Gallery of Ballarat director Gordon Morrison says presenting the Archibald Prize is a natural fit for the Gallery. “Our extraordinary collection of Australian art will provide a brilliant context for this exhibition of work by some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists. The Archibald brings together images of some of the country’s leading celebrities, as Grace Kelly Exhibition
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THE BEAUTY IN BOKEH Moving to Daylesford six years ago gave Sonja Rolton the opportunity to pursue her passion for art, ceramics and photography, which morphed naturally into the opening of Bokeh Gallery two years ago. Sonja began collaborating with very talented creators, allowing the gallery to broaden into a place for contemporary art, craft and independent design. Bokeh Gallery has recently moved into a wonderful new space in Vincent Street, which features art, handmade ceramics, jewellery, wood, metal and textiles. Sonja loves working directly with the artists and makers, providing a venue for a new generation of Australian makers. Her goal is to bring thoughtful and functional handcrafted design to the local community and beyond. The range of artwork at Bokeh Gallery is
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sourced throughout Australia with some from only a kilometre away. When asked where she sees herself in five years’ time, Sonja didn’t have to think very hard, responding, “I see that I’ll be doing the same, living in the community and sharing my passion for art and beautifully hand crafted objects.”
FASHION AND FINE ART FUSION IN BENDIGO Art and fashion have always made a perfect match, the current exhibition at Bendigo’s Living Arts Space being a stellar example. Stellar Visions combines a spring-inspired fashion collection created by Ulrike von Radichevich, with the striking artworks of Julie Andrews. Merging the large-scale atmospheric paintings with the collection of pastel-coloured clothing, jewellery and millinery gives the display a unique twist, with elegant and theatrical overtones. Julie has produced a number of evocative paintings and wall-mountable lightboxes, using a clever blend of colours, shapes and lines. Some of the dreamlike subject matter suggests planets and galaxies, while others depicting a blurred vision, like looking through the windscreen on a rainy night. Julie’s work can also been seen around Bendigo in numerous public art murals, commissioned by the City Council. Ulrike created a striking range of designer garments especially for this display, which demonstrate her unique approach to fashion
as an art form. Austrian-born Ulrike worked as a theatre set and costume designer in Europe before moving to Australia. She still regularly travels to Europe for work and to gather designer labels for her clothing boutique, Rike, in Castlemaine. The influence of theatrical costume and sense of selfexpression and individuality shines through in Ulrike’s enchanting, feminine and sometimes whimsical designs. There will be a Meet the Artists event held in conjunction with the exhibition on 26 September, where Julie and Ulrike will discuss their work and experiences along the path to success. Situated in the former Post Office building, the Living Arts Space presents the work of artists and entrepreneurs from the Bendigo region with changing exhibitions every 2-3 months. Operated by the City of Greater Bendigo under the umbrella of the Bendigo Visitor Centre, it is open to the public every day.
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BENDIGO UNDER MOONLIGHT Spring has long been referred to as the season for growth and renewal, a fresh start after the drudgery of an icy cold winter. For Linda Whillance and Tom Salmon, it was the ideal time to launch a new market in Bendigo. Taking advantage of milder weather, a central public space and that special buzz that night markets generate, Moonlight Market will launch on September 26 in the city’s Hargreaves Mall. “We love the culture of night markets and there was nothing like that in Bendigo,” says Tom, estimating 70 stallholders will be involved in the monthly event. Technically held in the twilight hours between 5 and 9pm, Linda says the Moonlight Market is designed to be a place where people can come and meet family and friends. Multiple hot food stalls will be positioned alongside the stage, with live bands performing throughout the market. An artist will be alongside the musicians, demonstrating their craft (be it painting, drawing, sculpting), during the market with the finished artwork being auctioned at the following market and all proceeds will go to a charity of the artist’s choosing. “We don’t want it just to be about us, we want it to be a community event and community space,” says Linda. Other stalls will offer produce such as wine, cheese and olives, while customary market
items will also be available – think soap, jewellery, art, photography, and clothing. “We‘re calling ourselves a boutique night market, so the stall quality and presentation has to be engaging,” says Linda, noting that stallholders hail from across Victoria, including Bendigo, Melbourne, Geelong and Echuca. “We love having locals involved, but we also love the idea of showcasing Bendigo to outsiders.” A beekeeper by trade, Tom’s honey will also be sold at the market, while his percussion skills will be on show as part of the cover band Annie Smalls and the Moustache Ride. Linda has an equally impressive skillset, the former accountant and police officer manages Bendigo’s popular Trove Market which began last year. The Moonlight Market was inspired by the success of a previous Trove night market, which generated huge crowds. “If you told me a year and a half ago I would be running one successful market and was about to launch another, I wouldn’t have believed you” she says. “It’s definitely been challenging, but I think it will be rewarding,” says Tom. “To see it all happen on the night, we’ll stand back and think ’Yeah, it was worth it.’” For more information, visit www.moonlightmarketbendigo.com.au
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SILVERSMITHS SHINE IN CASTLEMAINE Contemporary works by silversmiths from all over the nation will be on display at the Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum commencing from 29 August and continuing until 18th October. Works by fifty-three artists, jewellers and designers are included as part of the 2015 Contemporary Australian Silver and Metalwork Award, the most prestigious award of its type held in the country. The biennial Award attracts some of the finest contemporary artists and designers working in silver and metals in Australia. First launched in 1988 by Buda Historic Home and Garden, the Award was established to commemorate the significant contribution to Australian silversmithing by the noted colonial silversmith, Ernest Leviny. In 2015 Castlemaine Art Gallery joins with Buda for the first time
to administer and host this award. Buda is also presenting the first in its Silver Masters display series, to be held in the historic house concurrently with the major Award exhibition. This year Fine Metalcraft – Geumsok Gongye will be staged, featuring the superbly crafted silverwork and jewellery of two internationally renowned Korean-Australian silversmiths, Daehoon Kang and Joungmee Do. Kang and Do use both traditional and modern silversmithing techniques to produce their unique works. By combining Australian motifs and imagery with Korean folk art and symbolism, each artist has cleverly integrated eastern and western imagery and culture to create their distinctive object and jewellery designs. Discounted joint tickets will be available from each venue.
Fine Metalcraft Geumsok Gongye Daehoon Kang & Joungmee Do
Exhibition dates: 29 August – 18 October 2015 14 Lyttleton Street Castlemaine 16
42 Hunter Street Castlemaine
FASHIONISTA SISTERS OF THE GOLDFIELDS
When meeting Ballarat’s Liana Skewes and her sister Deneale, it’s obvious they share a genetic predisposition for classic, flattering fashion. Scratch the surface however and you’ll discover their similarities are not just skin deep. The pair has embraced the world of fashion blogging, but instead of modeling clothes in nondescript settings, they both showcase the Goldfields’ most charming scenery. “There is so much content out there in the fashion blogging world that to cut through the white noise you need a unique voice,” says Liana, whose blog Finding Femme: The Lifelong Pursuit of Elegance (www.findingfemme.blogspot.com.au) has an impressive following across various social media platforms, predominantly in America where the sights and delights of Ballarat and neighbouring towns hold fresh appeal. “Part of it is exploring fashion in your own unique way, but the other part is the backdrop. Not many bloggers are out there talking about black swans and Heritage Weekend.” This approach also sparked the attention of international clothing brands, which have incorporated Liana and Finding Femme into their marketing campaigns. “You need to be authentic to where you’re from and who you are,” she says. “There’s something buried in the architecture of the places around me. Match that with clothes and it creates an emotional response. I want people to go to these places and see them with new eyes.”
Liana has dipped her toe in the fashion blog pool a couple of times over the years, but dived right in a year ago when she launched Finding Femme. Meanwhile, Deneale’s blog, The Goldfields Girl (www.thegoldfieldsgirl. blogspot.com.au), was launched this past autumn, born out of a Parisian holiday with Liana three years ago. Enjoying high tea in the city’s ritzy Golden Triangle, they surmised about how amazing it would be if the Goldfields were like the Golden Triangle. “The blog’s tagline is Living a Beautiful Life on the Goldfields as I love beautiful things, whether it be places, food, fashion, lifestyle,” says Deneale, whose posts to date have showcased maternity wear (her baby is due in October), but ongoing will be themed around highlights of living in the Goldfields region. “It sums up what we do when Liana and I spend time together,” she says. “We’ll go to Bendigo and see what’s on at the art gallery, take a Saturday afternoon drive to Castlemaine and the café and gallery at the old gaol. A lot of our life revolves around doing things in this region.”
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GARDENS, GIFTS, BUTTERFLIES AND A GORGEOUS CAFÉ Nestled amongst the trees at Harcourt is ASQ Garden & Landscape, a charming plant nursery, café, a beautiful butterfly enclosure and a gorgeous range of giftware and homewares making it a great place to visit for the whole family. Skydancer’s fully licensed café serves local wines, ciders, yummy breakfasts, delectable cakes and a wide range of lunch options to suit all tastes. Situated within the nursery, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and take some time out, all whilst enjoying the beautiful surrounds. The exquisite giftware and homewares suit all styles and budgets – even the kids are catered for – and you can pick up those special early Christmas presents!
From October through to May, the butterfly enclosure is home to an array of beautiful butterflies. These delicate, colourful creatures can be referred to as nature’s flying flowers. Experience the sight of these magical creatures dance amongst the blooms and discover the right plants to attract butterflies at home. Think spring, think gardens and with the variety of plants, pots, garden furniture and creative landscaping ideas a solution can be found for any gardeners’ needs. ASQ Garden & Landscape is a ‘must do’ while you’re visiting Central Victoria. With the nursery, delicious food, delightful gifts, a butterfly enclosure, a play area for children, indoor and outdoor seating and ample parking, you could spend the day there!
Allendale Nursery Hooked on Herbs Specializing in Herbs & Vegetable seedlings. All ornamentals reduced to clear. 4141 Creswick-Newstead Road Allendale Phone 0411 551 550 allendalenursery@gmail.com Find us on Facebook Catch me at the following markets: 1st Saturday of the month 1st Sunday of the month 2nd Saturday of the month 2nd Sunday of the month 3rd Saturday of the month 3rd Sunday of the month
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Woodend Farmers Market Gisborne Olde Time Market Kyneton Farmers Market Maldon Market Creswick Market Talbot Farmers Market
5 THINGS I KNOW FOR SURE Emily Simms lives with her husband Alex and their two young sons in Baynton. They run a regenerative smallholding that produces honey, chicken, eggs and heirloom vegetables. Emily also sells her preserves and gluten-free baked goods at local farmers markets and shares stories of their sustainable journey on the blog Hand to Ground. 1. BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE It’s clichéd but true – if you feel strongly that things should be different, then the change starts with you. Prior to us working at Woodend’s Taranaki as farm apprentices, I worked for the government and Alex had a fine arts background. About four years ago we kept reading about the state of the world’s agriculture and unethical food practices and thought, “We have to be a part of this”. 2. WE’RE ALL CONNECTED TO THE LAND It’s important to recognise that it doesn’t really matter where you live, just by consuming food that’s grown somewhere in the world, you’re connected to it. We’ve a responsibility to ensure that the earth is not being used for our expense, that it’s there for our kids and those after us. 3. EMBRACE THE SEASONS We really like the idea of seasonal living and for farmers
particularly, the idea of embracing the weather and seasons is so important. You’re enabled and limited by what that season allows, like daylight hours and the temperature. We’ve got windows in autumn and spring where we can sell chickens and we only harvest honey once a year in autumn. 4. EAT YOUR ETHICS It’s easy to talk about ethics with food, fair trade and organics, but if you actually make those choices you can change the system. I think it’s not so much about seeking out labels, but rather finding local producers who you can visit to see what they’re doing. If we practice that idea of eating our ethics, our customers and people build a community who will respect that. 5. IT’S ALL ABOUT COMMUNITY Of all life’s treasures, the one that should be desired and valued the most is community. We’ve been here two years and made more friends and meaningful connections than decades of living in Sydney. You know how hard it is fending for yourself in the country, you’re willing to make it easier for those around you. Farmers markets and locals grocers are essential to our business, because that’s where we want to sell our produce and have personal relationships with people.
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Daylesford’s stunning new homewares store.
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39 Albert Street, Daylesford (a short walk from the main street) Open Thursday to Monday, 10am - 5pm Phone 0429 192 718
IT’S NOT TOO EARLY TO THINK CHRISTMAS La Vita in Daylesford’s Albert Street recently celebrated its 1st birthday, as well as launching the new website and online store. It may still be months away, but Christmas has that knack of sneaking up and pouncing when least expected, so clever Kym Quick, La Vita’s owner is planning to stage exclusive shopping nights in the lead up to Christmas, plus a variety of workshops in the New Year. Now the serious shopper has the choice of that hands on, touchy feely experience of browsing in the physical emporium or visiting and purchasing online from the comfort of home, or office or wherever online shopping takes place. Whatever the preference, La Vita has gifts for newborns, 90-year-olds and everyone in between. Kym’s penchant for matching classic
items with the whimsical is also unmistakable – there are Indian feather headdresses scattered about the place, while a Jean Paul Gaultier scarf emblazoned with skulls and an illuminated world globe are hard to resist. La Vita has cemented its place as a must-visit destination for style gurus throughout the region and shoppers further afield on the hunt for something special. For more information, visit the Facebook page or the actual store at 39 Albert Street, Daylesford. Open from Friday to Monday from 10am to 5pm, or visit them and shop online at www.lavitadaylesford.com.au
“Learning for life, from life and throughout life.” Nurturing children from Playgroup to Class 8 Cnr Rilens Rd and Pyrenees Highway, Muckleford 03 5479 2000 enquiries@castlemainesteinerschool.com.au www.castlemainesteinerschool.com.au
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CRESWICK ON A PLATE Paul and Marie Williams brought a slice of France to Creswick when they opened la boulangerie-patisserie Le Péché Gourmand in 2012. They have since won several Golden Plate awards and cemented their place as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Inviting pastry chef Paul to interpret Creswick on a plate allowed him to combine a delicacy often served in Marie’s homeland with produce from their new hometown. “Before we moved to Creswick I used to drive through it every day and there was just something about it - a simple little patisserie in a small country town was just what we were after, typical to what you see in Saint Philbert de Bouaine, where Marie is from. While similarities between this French
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village and Creswick are not immediately obvious, what they do have in common is a passion for supporting local business and using local produce - that’s what this region is known for. Our best seller is the almond croissant, but fruit Danish’s are also popular. We source our toppings from a variety of places, using whatever top quality fruits are in season. There are tonnes of blackberry bushes along the river down from our house and neighbours have massive peach, pear, apricot and apple trees, which we use in all the Danishes. Lambley Nursery deliver figs that we sometimes use and there’s also heaps of plum trees randomly all over the place. I also use quinces and rhubarb, which we grow at home.”
FRUIT DANISH QUICK CRÈME PATISSIÈRE 250ml milk 1 egg 25gm sugar 20gm flour 50gm butter Mix sugar, flour and egg with a whisk to make a paste. Boil the milk and add to egg mixture. Strain it back into your pot and cook it out until thick. Take it out of the pot, cover and cool as quickly as possible. DOUGH 450gm flour
8gm dry yeast
15gm salt
620ml water
50gm sugar
500gm butter
Activate dry yeast with water in a mixing bowl. Place flour, salt and sugar in the mixing bowl and mix on 1st speed until dough is incorporated, then place on 2nd speed for 8 minutes. The dough should be shiny and well developed. Wrap the dough in cling wrap and rest in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours. While dough is resting prepare butter by rolling it out to a 20 x 20 cm square and placing it in the fridge for 20 minutes. Once the dough is rested, press it out on a well-floured bench so it’s 30 x 20 cm. Place your slightly chilled buttered sheet to one side of the dough. Fold the dough over the butter to the centre and then fold the other side back over to create 3 layers of dough and 2 layers of butter. Roll out the dough to 30 x 20 cm and repeat fold. Wrap and allow it to rest for 15 min in the fridge. Repeat 2 more times and the dough will be ready. Roll out the dough to 8mm thick and cut out 10 x 10 cm squares. Place on baking tray. Pipe a good amount of crème patissière in the middle and place seasonal fruit on top. Cover with cling wrap and allow to prove (double in size). Place in an oven at 200 °C for 15 to 20 minutes. Tip: splash a bit of water in the oven to create steam to help it rise and add crispiness to the crust. To finish, brush with sugar syrup or boiled apricot jam, or simply dust with some icing sugar.
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Junction is an over 18 venue
Rich in heritage and abundant in local produce, Junction is a gathering place celebrating the region’s finest.
PORK PIES DOWN UNDER It’s a common food dilemma faced by many expats. After moving abroad, you cannot satisfy that hankering for a particular nosh that’s not available in your new home base. For James Arrowsmith and his mate Peter Tonge, who both hail from the UK’s Lancashire but now live in the Echuca Moama region, the problem was pork pies. “We couldn’t find a decent pork pie for love nor money”, says James. So he and Peter set about doing what any entrepreneurial spirit with a penchant for pork would do – created their own. Together with James’ wife Jane, the trio has not only satisfied any cravings for traditional cold pork pie, but also established an award-winning business venture, Pacdon Park. James first visited Echuca Moama in 2002 to work at his godfather’s pig farm and after graduating from university in 2006, returned to the region with Peter and began cultivating the business, testing recipes and eventually converting an old dairy in Bunnaloo into a commercial kitchen in 2008. “Pete was a chef, I had a business degree and had experience pig farming and we were on a pig farm, so we thought, ‘How much better can you get than that?’,” says James.
Having perfected the pork pie, pork sausages were added to the repertoire, bangers (including varieties infused with sage, apples or leek) becoming the most popular item and the pie retaining its place as Pacdon Park’s niche product. Once customers began requesting black pudding, it opened the gates to create a range of produce that utilises the entire pig. This year the black pudding was a finalist in the Delicious Produce Awards, while in 2011 Pacdon Park’s haggis won the magazine’s esteemed Artisan award. Pacdon Park maintains a strong following at Melbourne’s farmers markets, together with suppliers in regional Victorian towns. Jane also notes that quite a few Brits who live in the community and also miss the traditional pork pie are regular customers. Jolly good! For more information - www.pacdon.com.au
Jane moved to Australia the following year, met and married James locally, despite living only 11 miles apart in Northern England. That same year James was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the Powercor Australia Campaspe Murray Business Awards.
Phone 5482 3411 37 Murray Esplanade, Echuca www.steampacketinn.com.au
Our 1879 National Trust classified hotel Steampacket Inn is only a dozen steps from the entrance to the historic 19th century Port of Echuca. Our beautiful rooms can accommodate 27 guests, with a flexible mix of double and twin rooms, a family suite and loft suite.
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A GONG FOR PERRICOOTA RETREAT The hard work that goes into developing a business can often go unheralded, so when you receive a gong from your industry and peers, it tastes very sweet indeed. Perricoota Retreat in Moama achieved just that at the recent Inland Tourism Award for Deluxe Accommodation. Bill and Belinda Kulurus, managers of the family owned retreat, travelled to Broken Hill on 24th July to the Awards Ceremony and were absolutely thrilled when they were announced as the winners for their category, making Perricoota eligible for the NSW state awards. But it doesn’t stop there as the retreat is a Finalist in the Campaspe Murray Business Awards in the Tourism category with
Breathe in the fresh country air as the willows tickle the ducks on the lake before you. Perricoota Vines Retreat is paradise on earth. With each reclaimed timber villa boasting a private spa room and warm, luxurious interiors with cathedral ceilings, your couples’ retreat is wonderfully romantic with all the simple practicalities you could hope for.
Each of our garden or lakeside villas boast lovingly tended gardens or lakeside willow views, and a private courtyard or outdoor decking across the lake means you can enjoy the best of the fresh Murray air before retreating to your secluded villa. In-room massage and gourmet goods delivered to your door can be arranged. Plasma TVs and wi-fi hot spots are available.
Perricoota Vines is a short drive from Echuca Moama’s tourism Mecca and all its cafes, restaurants, old world paddlesteamer attractions and of course the majestic Murray River, A 400 Perricoota Rd, Moama NSW 2731 P 1800 826 655 E enquiries@perricootavines.com W perricootavines.com
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the winners being announced at the Awards Dinner in Moama on 14th October. Anyone who has ever entered an industry award will know how hard and time consuming it is to meet all the criteria demanded by the judging bodies, so to win is a moment to savour, but to win in the first year of trying, is even better.
Maldon Folk Festival
Heathcote Wine & Food
Macedon Ranges Wine & Food
Art Beyond the Divide
Swiss Italia Festival
FESTIVAL FUN South Australia once claimed it, but Victoria is arguably now entitled to call itself the Festival State. It seems that not a weekend goes by without there being a festival, fair, expo, celebration, fete, gala or some sort of feast day somewhere in this amazing State. Once reserved for the sunnier months of the year, the community’s appetite for having a good time seems to defy wind, rain, sleet and snow, be it for a humble school fete or the hoot and
holler of major events, be it celebrating food and wine, music, the arts and our cultural diversity. This spring we see a plethora of events taking place from art exhibitions, food and wine festivals, music festivals and community celebrations across the region and be they large or small, each offers people the chance to “get together and have fun”.
Put these dates into your calendar to make sure you don’t miss out. 6TH SEPTEMBER TO 25TH OCTOBER 10TH & 11TH OCTOBER 16TH TO 18TH OCTOBER 21ST TO 25TH OCTOBER 30TH OCTOBER TO 2ND NOVEMBER 14TH & 15TH NOVEMBER
Loddon Shire – A seven week programme of family friendly events throughout the region. Heathcote Wine and Food Festival Art Beyond the Divide Arts Festival, Seymour Swiss Italia Festa, Hepburn Springs Maldon Folk Festival Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival
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A MARATHON OF EVENTS IN LODDON SHIRE The Loddon Shire in the north of the State west of Bendigo, is famous for it’s gold prospecting and nugget discoveries that continues today, but the region has more than gold to attract visitors. Boasting some of the best architecture in towns such as Inglewood, Bridgewater on Loddon, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn surrounded by stunning bushland, rivers, lakes, National Parks and breathtaking scenery, the Loddon Valley is definitely a destination. To showcase the region in all it’s spring glory, a seven week festival is scheduled to run from 6th September to 25th October with a string of fourteen family-friendly events around the Shire, culminating with Wedderburn’s Naturally New Age Festival and Farmers’ Market. The
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marathon programme kicked off with a picnic at Piccoli’s popular outstanding sculpture gardens in Barraport, that you can visit any day by calling 03 5455 4257 for an appointment. Other events happening during the festival include the Kooyoora Wildflower Show, family days at Terrick Terrick National Park and Tarnagulla, a fishing competition, wetlands tour, photographic shows and field trips, an archery open day, three local festivals and Boort’s Luncheon by the Lake. The family friendly festival has events happening in towns throughout the region, making it an important addition to the community’s calendar. For a full list of events happening during the festival, visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Lists/Events
HEATHCOTE WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL Long hailed as a premium wine region, the vignerons and food producers of the Heathcote area come together for the 2015 Heathcote Wine and Food Festival on the weekend of 10th and 11th October. Visitors are invited to share in the excitement of a weekend of the region’s famous full-bodied shiraz, whites, sparklings and alternative varieties, matched to the regional food, live music and great country atmosphere. Visitors can wander among the more than forty wineries, tasting along the way and indulge in an abundance of local produce and soak up the live music. There will also be special tasting sessions and the signature daily master classes – all in one place for one weekend. The Heathcote Wine and Food Festival has
been a very popular event for wine lovers and festival goers for a number of years attracting visitors from far and wide. The Heathcote Wine and Food Festival is held at the Heathcote showgrounds and whilst the organisers may love dogs and other animals, they aren’t welcome at the event and definitely no BYO alcohol please. This is a ticketed event and event goers are encouraged to purchase tickets early from www.trybooking.com/IFEI or for more details about the event, visit the website at www.heathcotewinegrowers.com.au
ARTS OF SEYMOUR
Art Beyond the Divide is the dream of a group of busy people in and around Seymour who believe that art connects the most different of people. The dream manifested into a town wide arts festival that proved so successful in 2012 that it has become an annual event and will be staged again in Seymour from 16th to 18th October. A variety of venues throughout
the town will exhibit some very impressive art works by local artists and artisans that testify to the talents that abound in regional Victoria. An initiative of the Seymour and District Art Society Inc. in partnership with GOTAFE Seymour, the art show joins forces on Sunday 18th with the Tastes of the Goulburn food and wine festival, which sees Station Street closed to traffic and inhabited by food, wine and other stalls showcasing the produce, wines and crafts of the region. For more information about Arts Beyond the Divide visit artbeyondthedivide.org.au or the Tastes of the Goulburn, visit www.tastesofthegoulburn.org.au
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SWISS ITALIA FESTA Have you been thinking of a trip to Hepburn Springs? Why not make it in October. Every year the beautiful Hepburn region in Victoria’s Central Highlands comes alive to the smells, sounds and tastes of the Swiss Italian Alps. From October 21 to 25 the Hepburn Springs Swiss Italian Festa will be celebrating the settlement and heritage of Swiss Italians in the region. “There will be a broad range of activities for families, adults, children and descendants of those early settlers;” Rebecca Anderson, Festa Director said.
a Children’s Masked Ball, face painting, pasta and pizza making; and for the whole family the Grand Parade, Lantern parade and Family Festa Day. A range of themed dinner events are sure to have you licking your lips and tapping your feet. They include an Italian Cabaret, Italian Operetta, and Masked Ball for Adults. If your forebears arrived to make Hepburn Springs their home, we hope that they will attend the Descendants Gathering and Bocce Tournament at Cricket Willow. This is just a taste of what will be on offer, for the full programme visit www.swissitalianfesta.com
“For the creative we offer the Landscape Art opening and exhibition; for those who want to learn about our local history - Heritage walk, exhibition of Artefacts and Information presented by The Daylesford & District Historical Society along with an opportunity to research your family history; for the children
42nd Maldon
International, National & local performers
Folk Festival Octob er 30th - November 2nd www.maldonfolkfestival.com mail@maldonfolkfestival.com Ph. 0421 643 478
Earl y - bird tickets o n sa le until 30 th Sept
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Beth Patterson (USA); Orpheus Supertones (USA); The Joe & Harmony Trippy Hippy 60s Show (USA - or so they seem!!!); Cloudstreet (Nicole Murray and John Thompson) (QLD); Greg Champion; Kavisha Mazzella; Nick Charles; Claymore; The Stetson Family; Chloe & Jason Roweth (NSW); The Wish List (QLD); John Bennett with David Hyams (WA) ; Rory Faithfield (WA) ; Luke O'Shea (NSW) and Damian Howard; Geoff Achison; Kaurna Cronin (SA); Bruce Watson; Jan 'Yarn' Wositzky; Janette Geri & Nicolas Lyon; Jane Thompson & James Rigby; Martin Pearson; Danny Spooner; Dixie Chooks; Enda Kenny & Dave O'Neill; Harpers Bizarre; Hobo Grace (NSW); Jeanette Gillespie; Justin Bernasconi; Lagoon Hill Zydeco (TAS); Loren Kate (SA); Mandy Connell; Michael Waugh; New Holland Honey Eaters (TAS); The Faraway Eyes (NSW); The Good Girl: A Song Project (Penny Larkins & Helen Begley) and more
BETH BRINGS HER BOUZOUKI TO MALDON Beth Patterson was 17 when she first picked up a bouzouki. An Irish adaptation of a traditional Greek instrument, it was a natural fit for the American musician whose first instrument was an oboe, followed by the piano, violin and electric bass. “I didn’t consciously make any sort of transition,” she says, “I just sort of ran away with the bouzouki”. Beth will visit Australia in November, demonstrating her bouzouki prowess at the 41st Maldon Folk Festival. The annual festival runs across four days in more than 20 venues, with up to 300 performers. Musical genres have grown to embrace not only traditional folk, but also blues, gospel, a cappella, bluegrass and contemporary. As one of the headline acts of the Festival, Beth curiously describes her music as ‘SWAP’. “I have a tendency to write in the styles that most appeal to me, and my two favorite genres are progressive rock and world music,” she explains. “As a solo artist, I have to try to condense everything that goes on in my head into a one-woman, one-bouzouki show. So the four elements –songwriter, world, acoustic and progressive (aka SWAP), get mashed together in my sound.” Beth says festivals such as the Maldon Folk Festival are a great event to keep any place from becoming too homogenised. “They abound back in my native Louisiana, and it helps to remind the world how important it is to remember our roots and to celebrate what makes a place unique,” she says. Her appearance at the Festival is a part of Beth’s second tour of Australia, the locals making a real impact on her first visit. “I was blown away by so much on my previous visit – the natural beauty of so many places, the talent and genius of so many musicians, artists, and writers that I met along the way, the food, the flora and fauna of course, and the history,”
she says. “But when asked what my favorite thing about Australia was, without hesitation I always reply, ‘the people’.” Visitors to the Maldon Folk Festival will no doubt be treated to Beth’s penchant for anecdotes. “There’s always some degree of spontaneity with me,” she says. “Songs range from heavy-handed intensity to softer ballads, depending on the vibe I get from the crowd and what I feel people want to hear. There’s always some degree of the absurd, however. I don’t think I would have stayed in the music business for so many years if I weren’t able to laugh!”
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A Touch of Class Step back in time to an era of elegance and decadence, into the Golden Age of rail travel, when the journey was just as important as the destination Our first class carriages offer a unique rail experience complete with cosy compartments, open lounges and fully equipped bar. Enjoy a drink or snack served by our Stewards, while you simply sit back and relax. Ride on the observation platform on our parlour car, let the world drift by as you leave behind the hum-drum of modern life and experience a taste of true decadence during your leisurely journey.
The Authentic Steam Railway Linking Castlemaine and Maldon Trains run on Sundays and Wednesdays as well as selected Saturdays and public holidays throughout the year.
www.VGR.com.au info@vgr.com.au
Maldon’s Eaglehawk Motel
The small motel with a big difference. It’s ambience and facilities provide a wonderful experience when staying in Maldon.
35 Reef Street, Maldon 03 5475 2750 www.maldoneaglehawk.com
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Fairbank House Stylish house & garden for a couple, a group, or celebration in Maldon! Exclusive use property, 3 bed, 3 bath, ducted heating & cooling, indoor & outdoor entertaining. Complementary WiFi and Foxtel/Showtime. For accommodation enquiries: 0413 541 941 or enquiries@heritagecottages.com.au www.fairbankhouse.com.au
Exc ALL lud FAB ing LineRIC $ ns & 15p/ Quil m tba cks
The Village Patch Over 3000 fabrics in stock, kits, locally handmade quilts, gifts, threads and books. Machine quilting service also available.
Photo courtesy of Bendigo Regional Tourism
Freshly made on premises using all natural ingredients.
22 High Street, Maldon Open Wednesday to Sunday 12 - 4.30pm
49 High Street, Maldon – 03 5475 2391 email enquiries@villagepatch.com.au Open 6 days, Wed–Mon 10am–5pm Secure online store www.villagepatch.com.au 33
THE ART OF CELEBRATING THE GENTLE ART OF WINEMAKING After 25 years, the secret may finally be out. What will probably always be affectionately known as ‘Budburst’ to locals, because it celebrates the grapevine buds bursting for the new wine vintage, the Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival puts the region firmly in the spotlight. With the area recognised for producing some of Australia’s best cool climate wines, the new name recognises the Macedon Ranges as the star of the festival. Supported by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, the Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival offers guests a personalised experience at the region’s cellar doors, tasting new and exclusive wines and hearing first hand each wine and winemaker’s story. The winemakers and vignerons, all families living on their vineyards, have an unparalleled passion for combining traditional methods and innovative practices to produce impeccable wines in small but coveted batches.
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This year, 30 wineries will have more than 100 exceptional wines available for tasting, including those that can often only be sourced at the cellar door. All the families have an engaging story, all are characters and all are passionate about what they do. But don’t expect to rush them. Their philosophy is all about taking time to ensure their products are perfect. Fortunately, wine enthusiasts have the entire weekend to spend time tasting the best wine and food the Macedon Ranges has to offer. It is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hectic pace of life, take a deep breath and enjoy the gentle art of winemaking. Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival is on November 14 and 15. Visit the website for a full program of wineries and events and to book your Weekend Wineries Pass for just $15, which includes a tasting glass. For more information, visit www.macedon rangeswine.com.au/budburst-festival
WINE & FOOD AT THE COSMO As a passionate supporter of Macedon Ranges wines, with 90% of their list being from the region, it’s a bit of a ‘no brainer’ that Trentham’s Cosmopolitan Hotel will play host to several wineries as part of the Macdon Ranges Wine and Food Festival (formerly known as “Budburst”) on the weekend of 14th & 15th November. Being equally supportive of the quality and variety of the produce of the region, the weekend will combine wine tastings matched to regional tasting plates from the Cosmo kitchen. Participating wineries are all only a hop, skip and jump away from the Cosmo and are primarily small, family owned and run vineyards – with names like Fontanella Wines, Mount Towrong Wines, Passing Clouds, Pegeric, Silent Way and Wombat Forest Vineyard they give off an air of romance and epitomise the quality of the region’s wineries. The Cosmopolitan Hotel is a destination that is a focal point of Trentham, with over an acre of gardens shaded by century old elm trees, it is the perfect setting for weddings and functions. The converted stables, an attraction in itself provide shelter on those days when the heavens may not be quite so kind. A wood
WINE HUB @ THE COSMO NOV 14 & 15 Tastings from 6 great local wineries in the historic cosmo gardens Enjoy regional tasting plates & meals matched with wines Live music from 1pm
fired pizza oven has recently been installed and can be savoured on Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays. Always moving forward, a new addition to The Cosmopolitan Hotel and opening soon, is a retail wine store again carrying a wide ranges of Macedon Ranges wines - even more reason to visit.
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WHO SAYS KIDS ARE SELFISH! When he was only eight years old, Creswick schoolboy Oscar Broad witnessed the Ballarat Soup Bus feeding the homeless and decided then and there that he wanted to help. After learning he was too young to work on the bus, but could donate goods, he set about collecting cans of food and four years later is still doing so, except now he also collects socks, hundreds of them, to guard against Ballarat’s cold weather. Using his Facebook page “Its Up To You” to generate more donations and hopefully encourage more volunteers, Oscar’s passion to see an end to homelessness in Ballarat is palable. His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed and have gained considerable local media attention and admiration from his family, teachers and school friends, so much so that he could be excused for a degree of hubris, but this rather shy, modest boy is as ordinary as any twelveyear-old should be. His efforts are certainly inspirational and one could conjecture on where his innate sense of selflessness will lead – with six years of secondary school ahead and probably university, then a healthy interest in girls, it is possible, even probable that his focus will become more scattered. However, meeting Oscar and hearing first hand his deep seated compassion for those less fortunate, it is obvious that it is fundamental to his nature and will be a constant driver in his future ambitions. Where ever life’s journey takes this young man, it will surely be accompanied by the goodwill of many.
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. Tipperary Springs Road, Daylesford Phone 03 5348 2525 info@boomerangranch.com.au
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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 $26.50 A La Carte also available
By Stephen Read
SHADES OF GRAY UNVEIL THE GARDEN Castlemaine artists Chelly and Peter Gray began their artistic life as ceramicists, however soon found a love for wire, tin and rusty metal. Over the past 20 years their work has been seen on TV, in various lifestyle magazines including Vogue Living and Marie Claire and been exhibited at local galleries as well as the Guggenheim in New York. Since moving to Castlemaine in 2000, Chelly and Peter focused their passion towards creating artworks for their own gallery. The Shades of Gray Studio and Gallery is set amongst a whimsical garden of birches, bulbs and beautiful flowers, many made from tin. This year’s exhibition “The Garden”, showcases works for and inspired by the Aussie backyard. With the exhibition looming, empty plinths are quickly filling with new and exciting works. I was excited to see the artwork out in the garden; metal sculpture often looks best in the open, weathered, with nature completing the work with a coat of patina. I have seen many sculpture gardens over the years, in most cases the garden is simply the backdrop where little attempt is made to integrate the artwork into the garden. At Shades of Gray Studio and Gallery, it is refreshing to see plants growing around and through the artworks, enhancing the sculptures, allowing them to settle into the landscape.
Sculpture is most often used as a point of focus in the garden, however there are many other ways garden art can be used to great effect. Well-selected sculpture can balance a space through adding structure to a whimsical garden or a playful surprise in a formal landscape. Creating an accent in the garden by selecting sculptures that reflect or mimic the natural form is a common device enlisted by garden designers. Accent pieces like a solid sphere paired with clipped topiary or a rusty grape vine displayed in a vineyard sets the mood for a garden and reinforces its meaning. Regardless of the reason why sculpture is placed in the garden, the strongest impact is always achieved when the artwork is something you love. . “The Garden” exhibition runs from October 31 to November 8 (closed on Wednesday 4 November). For more information visit shadesofgray.net.au
Stephen Read Principal Designer 0418 963 885
W stephenread.com.au E stephen@stephenread.com.au FB facebook.com/stephenreadlandscape
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By Norma Morton
A FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS Growing up in working class Footscray, the world was fairly black and white. If you fell ill, you went to the doctor, rarely questioning their “sage” advice. Most people, even those who didn’t follow a particular church would say they were Christians. Bread was white, food was bland and life on the whole could be described as a little colourless. Then the winds of change began to blow – the sixties and seventies heralded a revolution on so many levels with long held belief systems challenging, including my own. In 1984 I was asked to help organise a “new age” festival by a friend who was involved with many esoteric practices. My experience in the conservative, corporate world was seen by my disorganised friend as the skillset she needed to stage the event. Being somewhat naïve about alternative lifestyles, labelled by my peers as New Age, I found some modalities confronting and yet interesting. I had never heard of kinesiology, reflexology, shiatsu or Reiki and what was ear candling. Many of the “spiritual” pursuits advocated were unnerving. Then there were the smells – incense, smudge sticks (burning sage to the uninitiated), essential oils and chai tea. All of this and more combined to make for an intense, fascinating and confusing weekend. So confusing that I began questioning my own belief systems – “where to now?” Was this a turning in my life’s path, was I a closet hippy, did I still fit
Remedial Massage Regression Therapy Essential Oils Crystals and Books 38
within the corporate world, was I headed for a barefoot, baby on hip existence. Two years later, the baby was on the hip, but I was still wearing shoes and living in the suburbs, however the corporate world was behind me and I was open to new challenges of who knew what. It took a while to come to terms with the realisation that I could happily live with a foot in both camps – embrace the many health and wellbeing modalities that were on offer, some accepted, others rejected while at the same time, respecting conventional medicine and somehow find a sense of peace with a new if indefinable spirituality. Over the thirty years since that long forgotten festival, what was then seen as edgy and alternative has now become mainstream. Living with a foot in both camps, is OK.
Cheryl Burridge Dip H. & S. Dip H.T.
Hollistic Therapist 59 Albert Street, Creswick 03 5345 1458
HOLISTIC THERAPY CENTRE IN CRESWICK With a long career in nursing, which included working with aboriginal people in Western Australia, Darwin and other places in the north, Cheryl Burridge wanted to develop her own healing centre where she could use her knowledge and experience of complimentary therapies and spiritual healing. When her mother and two daughters, moved to Creswick, Cheryl felt a connection with the town and decided that it was the place to open her centre and settle into a new home. She and her husband looked at housing in both Creswick and Clunes, deciding on a renovation project in the latter, but Creswick was still the choice for her centre. As if renovating a house wasn’t enough, the chosen shop and therapy rooms also needed a lot of
tender loving care, culminating in the opening of Pyramid Connection Healing Centre in December 2013. Cheryl offers a variety of modalities such as Remedial Massage, Shiatsu, Reiki, Quantum/Hypnotherapy and Spiritual Healing amongst others. The shop boasts a range of beautiful jewellery, crystals, books, essential oils, candles and salt lamps. Still practicing nursing, albeit not quite so intensively, Cheryl has found the right balance between mainstream and complimentary therapies. Pyramid Connections Healing Centre is a very nice fit for the changing face of Creswick and is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturdays 9am to 2pm.
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Natural - Beautiful - Organic - Uplifting Shop online at www.lakshmiscircle.com.au
Every 4th Saturday of the month. Enquiries: 0407 860 320 39
LEADERSHIP TRAINING IN BLAMPIED
There is a place in Blampied – ok you’ve never heard of Blampied, but it is halfway between the Central Victorian towns of Daylesford and Creswick – that is home to Canoe Images. A Registered Training Organisation providing nationally accredited training in team and leadership development using a residential, outdoor adventure style, experiential and fun approach to learning. Founded in 1992 by brothers Stan and Bernie Sleep near Mildura, corporations such as Telstra, NAB, ANZ and organisations like the CFA and SES would fly their staff and members to Camp Images from all around the State and beyond to complete the programs. As the costs of the fly-in fly-out arrangements increased, it was decided that a more central location in close proximity to Melbourne was needed. One day whilst driving along the Midland Highway from Daylesford, Stan and partner Marita came across Castle Hill - as the property is known - bearing a “For Sale” sign. Not letting an opportunity pass by without further investigation, Stan and Marita knocked on the door, took a tour, made an offer and were
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knocked back. Not to be thwarted they tried again and after some keen negotiations, a few delays and lots of patience, the property became theirs in 2011. Asked where the name Canoe Images came from, Stan explained that the Mildura property is located within the protected Hattah-Kulkyne National Park on the banks of the Murray River and the aborigines of the area would build their canoes from the bark of the trees. The general shape of the canoe remained on the tree when the bark was removed, but the trees survived and many can still be seen today. Accommodation at Canoe Images is very comfortable either in Rosella Lodge, that has four bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, dining area and sleeps up to twelve people or for those who prefer ‘Glamping’ (glamourous camping), there are a number of South African Serengeti tents, accommodating up to eighteen people, each boasting en-suite facilities, heating, breathtaking views of the local wildlife and surrounding countryside and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “camping out”.
In February when a huge wind storm/mini tornado swept through the region, most of the tents were badly damaged or destroyed, but have now, all but one, been restored to their former glory. The outdoor facilities include high and low impact activity stations, a volleyball court, four dams, canoes and a giant swing. Indoors there is a climbing wall and a modern highly functional meeting room. All programs are fully catered in a café style dining room that seats twenty. Asked about the programs that Canoe Images offers, Stan outlined them, but was obviously very proud of the results reported by participants of the Beyond Bounds, a four day residential, personal development program for women. Many women stated that after completing Beyond Bounds, they found the courage and confidence to turn their lives around in many ways. Relating the analogy of ‘the burnt chop syndrome – a syndrome mainly affecting women who feel that their needs take second place to those of their family’s. Stan said “many women are surprised when they realise that they don’t have to take the burnt chop, that its ok to throw it away, but not onto their plate”. Beyond Bounds has proven to be particularly empowering for career women, those needing to boost confidence when wishing to return to the workforce or for those who wish to change their lives in some way.
Each program at Canoe Images runs for two or three days and suits both corporate and organisational groups. However, it is also a great place to visit for a short family break over the Christmas holiday period, so if you’re thinking of something different that’s sure to make the kids forget about their iPads and electronic games this is it. To enquire about group training or a holiday break over Christmas, call Canoe Image on 5345 7092 or visit the website www.canoeimages.com.au
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IN THE PINK Who would have thought that the humble beetroot could be so versatile and healthy. After being diagnosed with high blood pressure, requiring medication, Marita Valenzuela decided that to cut back on medication, she needed to take responsibility for her own health. Encouraged by her nutrition-savvy son, who suggested she try eating beetroot to control her hypertension, she set out on her own beetroot therapy of consuming between 400gm and 500gms of the vegetable a day, both eaten and as juice. Without changing anything else in her diet or level of activity, Marita’s medication was halved in a relatively short space of time. Having made her own breakfast cereal since the mid-80s, guided by Adelle Davis, a pioneer in the healthy eating revolution, Marita decided to do something with these nutritious foods of healthy breakfast cereals and beetroot, creating Pink Muesli. Now with five regular varieties available and a special Christmas mix to be launched in October and only for Christmas, Marita sells her amazing muesli at four farmers markets, Clunes, Bendigo, Woodend and Coburg and online. Served as
a breakfast cereal with natural yoghurt and fresh fruit, it gives a great kick start to the day, but can also be enjoyed sprinkled over desserts and some savoury dishes or eaten as a crunchy snack. All varieties are delicious, but if I have to pick a favourite, it has to be the citrus and ginger mix. Visit Marita at any of the above farmer’s markets or buy online at pinkmuesli.com or call 03 5345 7092 to place an order. Pink Muesli not only tastes great, its also very pretty.
GARDEN OPTIONS Aussies love their gardens and with our generally dry climate it makes sense to look at alternatives to traditional “English garden” plants, much and all as we may love them. Natives are an alternative to be seriously considered as are succulents. In the most part, succulents are as tough as old boots with their only problem being sensitivity to frost, however as water becomes more critical, these versatile and hardy plants are proving their worth. With the diversity in shape, size and even colour, they lend themselves extremely well to difficult growing conditions and make great plants for containers, especially as most succulents produce
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flowers, which are colourful and very stylish, particularly in terracotta pots. Be creative with succulents and at the same time help the environment by planting in a variety of recycled containers – old boots, buckets, wheelbarrows – in fact anything that will hold a small amount of potting mix. A visit to the local tip – sorry, recycling depot – will offer up a multitude of options, just use your imagination and you will soon have a very low maintenance, attractive garden for very little cost that will last for years and years. This article has been re-produced from our summer 2006 edition, written by Ralph Dur of Talbot Railway Station & Nursery.
By Rebecca Djordjevic
GARDENING MADE EASY
Spring is the time for the emergence of colour and new life in our gardens from gorgeous bulbs to new buds sprouting. Being passionate about holistic and a meaningful approach to soil, food and health, this Spring I plan to try a different approach to growing healthy food.
Start with a layer of newspaper which has been soaked in water, lay down a thick layer completely covering the area, 6mm thick and overlapping. The newspaper kills weeds and stops new ones growing. No glossy or coloured paper, just good old fashioned newspaper is best.
There is no place like home. Home is where everything that is important to us is and where we do everything we can do to ensure that we keep it safe for our precious families and that means giving them the ability to pick fresh healthy food from their own backyard.
Next cover the area with pads of organic lucerne hay (20mm), then sprinkle a good layer of quality organic fertiliser like your own compost. I also like to add Rockdust to provide minerals ready to feed those hungry veggie seedlings and microbes love it too, so it kick starts all the soil biology processes bringing back worms and aeration to the soil.
Continuing with my theme of simple, easy and sustainable gardening I have chosen a ‘no dig’ garden which is also a terrific way to start a veggie patch if you are a beginner. It is so simple you can have your garden bed ready in an afternoon! A ‘no dig’ patch is made on top of the ground; it is layered, nutrient rich and easy to build. Every good veggie patch needs sun, so make sure yours gets 4-5 hours of sun a day. Mark out an area of 1.5m x 2.5m and edge it with your choice of materials which will hold the soil together.
Add another good layer of lucerne and organic fertiliser then cover with a loose bedding of straw. Finally insert pockets of compost into the straw and plant short shallowed root seedlings, like brassica or lettuce. Next season, once your no dig garden has matured you can start planting deep rooted plants. Make sure your bed is well watered, mulch is topped up periodically and you are on your way to some delicious healthy home grown food. Happy growing and eating!
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By Lyndall McQuinn
SPRING ASTROLOGY In the Southern Hemisphere the spring - sun signs are Virgo, Libra , Scorpio and those born early in Sagittarius. The prominent lunar signs this spring are, for the full moons, Aries, Taurus and Gemini, which means these signs have their illumination phase and for the dark moons Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, a lunar phase to retreat and clear out the year’s debris. VIRGO is really busy this spring. The dark moon affecting Virgo is at the beginning of spring with a partial eclipse (13 September), so Virgos may feel it’s time to clear out any accumulated paraphernalia, either physically or emotionally, and prepare to refresh their goals and purpose for the coming year. Relationships also can be under scrutiny, either a clean up for those already in place or an entry of new faces. Jupiter is walking with you throughout spring so optimism and expansion will underpin all your actions. LIBRA, your dark moon retreat is on 13 October and true to your heart, the whole season is about relationships. Well, you are passionate about them. So we can expect the unexpected – and those attractions that you know you should leave alone? You don’t. They are likely to be intense with communication that goes everywhere as Mercury is retrogrades in your sign from 17 September to 9 October, but in your heart you know this is the right thing to do, irrespective of outcome. SCORPIO touches base with the dreams and goals of 2015 or beyond but there can be great frustration around getting people to understand what you are trying to say especially at the beginning of spring as Saturn pulls away from your sign. Things brighten for Scorpio between the 27 October until 12 November where you will be clear about your directions and know what needs to be changed.
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SAGITTARIUS, will have lots to say, or plan or write. You have expansive optimism and it’s difficult to keep up with all the fantastic ideas flowing your way. Enter Saturn beginning its passage through your sign, so for November-born Sagittarius there is an anchor that lets you put in place concepts that you have never thought possible. No need to be nervous, the slower you go the more profound the changes. CAPRICORN, profound change continues for you. Those born between 3 – 5 January are on the end of what has been a transforming year; those born from the 6 to 9 are about to begin a deep journey. For all other Capricorns, life is topsy turvy, with fabulous opportunities flowing from Jupiter right through the sign, and unexpected opposition bowling in from competitors, creating a stop and go effect which disturbs your routines. AQUARIUS, spring is social, which suits you to a degree. Expect many ideas and communications that may have already surfaced at other stages of your life, but resurface here to be implemented or expanded upon. The time to start the implementation is at the end of spring on Gemini’s full moon, 26 November. Expect opposition from relationships both personally and professionally. The opposition is a part of expanding the concepts. Remember you see the big picture maybe others provide the pieces. PISCES’ time of drift and heal now meets much opposition. Life is saying you have to live on earth and there may be many voices demanding you pay attention. The relationship issues that you may have slipped into the ethers are likely to return asking you to address them. This is actually a
great time to reevaluate who is good for your life and what you really want to do.
until then. By November you may feel your life is truly blessed by the relationships you have around you.
ARIES, after spending most of the past two years flying you seem to still be racing, but much of what you are creating comes from reviewing, remembering or reentering pasts. Even the full moon of Aries on 28 September has an eclipse, so this to is time to delve. Feisty debate is a great way to let off steam but it doesn’t necessarily ward off opponents. Try to curb the impatience with others rehashing situations you have long resolved.
CANCER, the powerful interactions that have been apart of your life over the past year are now inspiring you to create and compose on a deeply profound level. You are not light hearted, more focused and relishing in the goals and projects that were once only dreams. Will you notice spring, or maybe not, too preoccupied with many interesting projects.
TAURUS loves spring and with Jupiter’s energy complimenting your earth energy, productivity is easy, accumulating on the full moon in your sign on 27 October. There will still be a couple of authority issues to master early spring, but generally a healthy debate sees you reinventing your image bringing forth new ideas. For once you feel empowered. GEMINI is bringing in many people, which has a dual impact. Whereas you love the new ideas and conversation, too much stimulation can be exhausting and confusing. It can be hard to balance the ebb and flow to give yourself the time required to reassess. Spring ends on your full moon (26 November), so perhaps leave your conclusions and action
LEO is a little flat at present. The exuberance of Jupiter is gone, relationships dominate the beginning of spring for better or worse. You world has been full of glitter but now the shine is dimming and you can see the responsibility for your actions lurking in the shadows. A brief downtime wont hurt, just to recap.
Many blessings for a flower-filled spring time. 0428 425 923 www.lyndallmcquinn.com
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MARKETS EVERY SATURDAY Wesley Hill Markets Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine 7.30am – 1pm P: 0418 117 953 EVERY SUNDAY Daylesford Sunday Market Daylesford Railway Station 8am – 4pm, P: 03 5348 3503 1ST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Ballan Community Market Lions Club, Main Street P: 03 5368 1203 Beaufort Market Memorial Park, Beaufort 9am – 1pm P: 5349 1184 M: 0448 192 087 Darley Market Bacchus Marsh Darley Football Oval, Fitzroy Street 7am – 1pm P: 0488 345 145 Daylesford Farmers Market Daylesford Primary School Oval, Vincent St. Daylesford P: 0421 458 891 Woodend Farmers Market High Street, Woodend 9am – 1pm P: 0407 860 320 2ND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Ballan Farmers Market Mill Cottage, Inglis Street P: 0498 361 291 Ballarat Lakeside Farmers Market* (also last Saturday of the month) Lake Wendouree Ballarat 9am – 1pm P: 03 9533 0601 Bendigo Community Farmers Market Rosalind Park end of Williamson St. 9am – 1pm P: 0498 186 491 www.bcfm.org.au Kyneton Community Market Duck Duck Goose and Larder Piper Street, Kyneton P: 03 5422 4653 3
RD
SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Creswick Market 19-21 Victoria Street, Creswick 9am – 1pm P: 03 5345 2356
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VISITOR INFO CENTRES Heathcote Region Farmers’ Market Barrack Reserve, High Street 9am–1pm www.hrfm.com.au
Avoca 03 5465 1000 pyrenees.org.au
Trentham Farmers Market Trentham Town Square, High Street P: 0427 542 811
Bacchus Marsh 03 5367 7488 discoverbacchusmarch.org
4TH SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Ballarat 1800 446 633 visitballarat.com.au
Lancefield Farmers Market High Street 9am-1pm P: 0407 860 320 1ST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Beaufort 03 5349 2604 pyrenees.org.au
Castlemaine Farmers Market Victory Park 9.00am-1pm P: 03 5470 6340
Bendigo 1800 813 153 bendigotourism.com
Gisborne All Seasons Market Gisborne Village Shopping Centre 9am-3pm P: 03 5426 2448
Castlemaine 1800 171 888 maldoncastlemaine.com.au
Gisborne Farmers and Produce Market 9am-1pm P: 03 5428 3043
Clunes 03 5345 3896 visitclunes.com.au
Maryborough Sunday Tourist Market Carisbrook Trotting Complex 8am-1:30pm P: 03 5461 2819
Creswick 03 5345 1114 visitcreswick.com.au
2ND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Daylesford 03 5321 6123 visitdaylesford.com.au
Dunolly Market Broadway, Dunolly Lisa Mercer – 03 5468 1948 Maldon Market Fountain St, Maldon www.maldonnc.org.au 3RD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH Talbot Farmers Market Scandinavian Crescent and Camp Street 9am–1pm P: 03 5463 2001 Woodend Market High Street P: 03 5427 2255 4TH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH Avoca Riverside Market 0488 177 647 Trentham Farmers and Makers Market Victoria Street 9am-2pm P: 03 5424 8223
Heathcote 03 5433 3121 heathcote.org.au Kyneton 03 5422 6110 visitmacedonranges.com Loddon 03 5494 3489 www.loddon.vic.gov.au Maldon 03 5475 2569 maldoncastlemaine.com Maryborough 03 5460 4511 visitmaryborough.com.au Trentham 03 5424 1178 visittrentham.com.au Woodend 03 5427 2033 visitmacedonranges.com
There is something for everyone! The Daylesford Sunday Market operates every Sunday 8am-3pm at Daylesford station.
Enjoy a trip through the forest and local countryside onboard one of our historic railmotors. Trains depart every Sunday from the historic station. 10am -3pm
Enjoy an evening out with a difference! Departs the first Saturday of every month 5:30pm Bookings essential
Daylesford railway station | 18 Raglan street Daylesford p: 03 5348 3503 (sundays only) | www.dscr.com.au
www.secretsmagazine.com.au