Secrets Magazine - Issue 56 - Winter 2018 by Norma Morton

ISSUE 56 WINTER 2018 PRICELESS

we LOVE MEAT SO MUCH WE HAVE OUR VERY OWN BUTCHER

We are pretty serious about our steaks and our charcuterie. thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we have OUR VERY OWN butcher.

Come and taste the difference. Farmers Arms Creswick is only 20 minutes from Daylesford and 10 minutes from Ballarat. LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY $15 PARMA LUNCH SPECIAL MON-FRI 31 ALBERT STREET CRESWICK RESERVATIONS CALL 03 5345 2221

farmersarmscreswick.com

ISSUE 56 – WINTER 2018 FEATURES: 5

LOCAL GP’S FIRST BOOK A HIT

CRIME WRITERS IN BENDIGO

12 BALLARAT IN WINTER 16 TOWN ON A PLATE 19 NEW LIFE FOR CLIFFY’S 30 ASTROLOGY

Published by Secrets Magazine ABN 35 535 679 949 Cover photo by: Mailing Address PO Box 356 Creswick VIC 3363 Jennie Boyd Phone 0427 103 217 Photography Email info@secretsmagazine.com.au Web www.secretsmagazine.com.au Editor Norma Morton Design & Layout Leah Armstrong, Nick Morton Photography Jennie Boyd Photography, Leah Armstrong Contributors Lyndall McQuinn, Matthew Turner, Leah Armstrong, Rebecca Sprosen-Bailey 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.

FROM THE EDITOR We’re now officially into winter, which means half of 2018 is behind us – where did it go. Over the past six months we have seen the usual shenanigans in Canberra, a Royal Wedding, which was the nicest Royal Wedding I have ever been to. A strange statement from someone who is a republican, but I have to admit to sometimes taking a sneaky peak at the royals, especially when they throw a big bash. The Brits really know how to do pageantry. Winter is a time for sitting in front of the fire with a good book. It’s also time for the annual Bendigo Writer’s Festival in August. This year is looking pretty darn good, especially if you like crime writing. Festival director Rosemary Sorensen has given us a preview of a wonderful program. A highlight is the appearance of local GP, Susi Fox whose first novel was released in Australia in April and

the UK in May. There is also talk of a possible movie. When I interviewed Susi I found a deightful, charming, down to earth woman who deserves all the accolades she has been receiving. Her book ‘Mine’ is a psychological thriller you’ll find hard to put down. Daylesford’s iconic cafe Cliffy’s Emporium has new owners and a new, positive energy. One of the owners, a born entrepreneur is Liam Thornycroft - I met Liam when he was about fourteen year’s old and it was evident then that he was going to go places, fast. You can read about Liam’s journey in this issue.. When the cold winds blow, remember spring isn’t too far away. Stay warm and safe and we’ll be back when the blossoms bloom.. Cheers, Norma

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

LOCAL GP SUCCEEDS WITH HER FIRST BOOK Being a trained and practicing GP gave writer Susi Fox the perfect background knowledge for her first book Mine. The idea for the plot came to her in a dream that was so powerful, she woke with a deep sense of fear, which evolved into a psychological journey of a character trying to be believed. Susi Fox is a GP in New Gisborne and now lives in Kyneton, She deftly balances life as a doctor, being a mother to seven-year-old twins, partner to Annie and a writer. As a child she always wanted to be a doctor, but loved writing. At least one teacher told her she should study literature. The journey to her first published work has been a long one, taking six years to complete. She said, “each time I did a draft, the writing improved and I kept coming up with challenges for the main character that had to be worked through”. At the time, Susi was practicing in Ballarat and the drive from Daylesford, where she lived, gave her the space to think and develop her characters. At the same time, she was studying writing at RMIT and the prestigious Vogel Literary Awards were coming up for

unpublished authors under the age of thirtyfive – she was then thirty-four. This gave her the push to finish her novel and submit it to literary agents – two of whom passed over the manuscript, while a third picked it up off what is colloquially known as the slush pile. Initially it was rejected by a publisher, but Penguin Books picked it up and released it in Australia at the beginning of April and in the UK at the end of May. It has been selling very well, but the excitement doesn’t stop there as Mine has been optioned for the movie rights – hopefully one day soon, Susi’s book will be made into a movie. Susi Fox’s first book is only the beginning of a planned list of books waiting to be written. Looking to the future, Susi feels she has twenty books in the pipeline and has already started work on her second novel – again in the medical genre as she wants to keep people engaged. She did say however, that the second won’t take as long as the first. Susi will be presenting at this year’s Bendigo Writers Festival in August.

Let’s get

Curious

Friday 10 Saturday 11 Sunday 12 August 2018

Packed 3-day program featuring 150 speakers and 100 events.

• International guests include Ann Cleeves (Vera, Shetland), and Matt Haig (Reasons to Stay Alive, How to Stop Time) • Youth-friendly events right across the weekend include inspirational British “public poet” Lemn Sissay • American street-farm entrepreneur Michael Ableman presents his Urban Food Manifesto • Closing event: Kitty Flanagan on “Burning Bridges”

FULL PROGRAM AND TICKETS AVAILABLE MID-JUNE bendigowritersfestival.com.au PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

#BWF2018

CRIME GANG HEADS TO BENDIGO Internationally acclaimed crime writer Ann Cleeves tops the lineup of international guests heading to Bendigo Writers Festival in August. Cleeves, the creator of novels on which the BBC TV series Vera and Shetland are based, will release the final book featuring her detective Jimmy Perez just before the festival. Joining Cleeves for a feast of top-shelf crime writing will be Australia’s number 1 crime writer, Michael Robotham, whose new thriller, The Other Wife, is out in June. “Ann Cleeves is a wonderful writer in the shrewd-detective tradition, while Michael Robotham is in the high-tension page-turner style,” festival director Rosemary Sorensen says. “Add in crime newcomers Susi Fox, Christian White and Chris Hammer, as well as Michael Brissenden with his political thriller, and we reckon there’s enough to put crime fans on the edge of their seats. “We call this part of the festival program ‘Writing Wrongs’, which covers everything from hardboiled detectives to books about Australia’s pokie addiction. “And of course, because this is Central Victoria – the thinking person’s place to be – we will be hosting such brilliant speakers as Bruce Pascoe and Tony Birch, continuing their conversation about the ‘dark emu’ of indigenous knowledge.”

The Festival will officially begin a little earlier this year, with Sam the Story Tram running again in Festival week, plus a series of lead up events from Monday August 6. “We get such positive feedback from right around the country about what a terrific place Bendigo is for a festival, with its excellent venues and its strong community culture,” Ms Sorensen says. “Every year, more people want to get involved, to help create a festival that makes Bendigo proud.” International guests at the festival include UK poet and actor Lemn Sissay who tells his harrowing story of how he was abused as a child forced in to care, but turned his life around to become the Chancellor of Manchester University. Hyeonseo Lee, the North Korean refugee whose story is told in her memoir, The Girl with Seven Names, is also on the program. Other guests include Norwegian Jewish singer songwriter Bente Kahan, urban food guru Michael Ableman, UK bestseller Matt Haig and investigative journalist Carey Gillam. The Bendigo Writers Festival program is online at bendigowritersfestival.com.au

Four Seasons Fine Music Festival PRESENTS:

Winter

An Evening of World Music SAT 4 AUG 7pm with the Kavisha Mazzella Trio

ALPACA PASSION

St John’s Anglican Church, 103 Napier St, Creswick

Chamber String Concert SUN 5 AUG 2pm with The Invictus Quintet

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 10 Templeton St, Clunes

A Pleasant Sunday Afternoon at Newlyn 72 Vincent Street, Daylesford | P 03 5348 1177 www.alpacapassion.com

SUN 9 SEPT 2pm At Last! Eleanor Kerr Sings the Blues

St Matthew’s Church, Newlyn-Reservoir Rd, Newlyn

www.ballaratanglican.org.au/fourseasons

www.vicplanning.com.au info@vicplanning.com.au 0456 173 281 Site Analysis & Feasibility Reports Planning Permit Applications & Amendments Bushfire Management Statements Landscape Design Land Management Plan Reports Planning scheme reports

A STYLISH WINTER How does a farmer become a fashion retailer and designer? The trajectory to creating your own fashion label is usually straightforward. But for Liz Robinson, her pathway has been completely unconventional. Back in 2003 Liz and her partner Keith purchased a few alpacas as pets. They quickly became obsessed with these captivating animals, and since then their herd has grown from three to over 100 alpacas. To promote the luxurious fleece being shorn from their animals, they started importing alpaca jumpers and ponchos from South America and sold them in a small shop on their farm, which they named Alpaca Passion. Nowadays Alpaca Passion is the premier alpaca fashion boutique in Australia and Liz and Keith have been successfully showcasing the alpaca fleece to customers in Daylesford for over 10 years. Liz and Keith’s daughter Cassie has always been involved with both the farming and fashion businesses and has inherited her parents’ passion for everything

Alpaca. After working in the fashion and publishing industries for 10 years, Cassie decided to join the family business full time in February 2016. Since then, Liz and Cassie have worked towards starting their own label A.P. MODA, with the aim to bring alpaca wool into every woman’s wardrobe. Named after their store and the Spanish word for fashion, A.P. MODA is a contemporary alpaca womenswear label. The range consists of timeless classics and sophisticated staples including knitwear, coats, accessories and homewares. While Liz still likes to claim that she is just an alpaca farmer from the country, anyone who has visited Alpaca Passion in Daylesford or has purchased a piece from the A.P. MODA range knows that while this may be true, she definitely has an understated sense of fashion and design and is well on her way to making an alpaca jumper a go-to piece in everyone’s wardrobe.

THE FARMER’S WIFE CLOTHING I HOME I WARES

www.thefarmerswifestore.com.au 49 Albert St, Creswick

Mon-Sat 10-4pm Sun 11-3pm

Studio 29, Newbridge 5438 7315 sarahgrant.com.au For unique handcrafted jewellery, Sarah can be found at The Castlemaine Artist’s market and Maldon market.

Pair of Opal rings Stirling silver with 18ct gold detail. Re-modelling of Opal jewellery available.

FRANCE COMES TO BALLARAT The Art Gallery of Ballarat is introducing light into the darkness this winter, with its feature exhibition ‘Into Light’, showcasing a selection of nineteenth and early twentieth century works of art from Musée de la Chartreuse, a gallery located in the town of Douai, in the Flanders region of northern France. Douai is just under half the size of Ballarat and is also transitioning from a reliance on heavy industry to a more diverse economy. Both towns used the wealth of nineteenth century industry to invest in cultural institutions. Into Light features art from both gallery’s collections, with the addition of relevant European and Australian paintings from a selection of Australian galleries. The exhibition starts with the classical imagery of the late eighteenth century, relatively realistic images featuring romantic seascapes and tranquil landscapes. The darkness and

heaviness of these works really highlight the contrast in the transition to Impressionism, with its celebration of the effects of pure light and colour. When looking at Impressionist art you see that landscapes are being painted on location, and the lives of ordinary people are being explored. One example is The Harvest Field, painted by E Phillips Fox in 1905, clearly showing the range of ages in the group of peasant workers, with a girl collecting grain and an older woman shown hard at work. The exhibition Into Light: French masterworks from the Musée de la Chartreuse will run from Saturday 23rd June to Sunday 9th September For details www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au Image: The Harvest Field from the City of Whitehorse Collection - gifted.

Henri Le Sidaner Le Dimanche [Sunday] (detail)1898 oil on canvas © Musée de la Chartreuse, Douai

BALLARAT IN WINTER By Della Vreeland – Visit Ballarat

EMBRACE BALLARAT’S WINTER WONDER Ballarat is set to transform into a hub of winter wonder this July as part of the annual Ballarat Winter Festival. With wondrous offerings to warm your heart, mind, soul and belly, here are some of the top things to see and do during the month-long event. VISIT THE WINTER WONDERLIGHTS July is one of the best times to visit Sovereign Hill and rediscover the reasons why this outdoor museum is one of Australia’s mostloved attractions. The Christmas in July: Winter Wonderlights will delight young and old alike, with a series of yuletide-themed activities as well as the iconic Winter Wonderlights display. Think (faux) snow, Christmas treats, mystical light projections and warming hot chocolates!

paintings celebrating pure light, colour and the lives of ordinary people, this show will have you yearning for a Parisian life of calm, culture and delight. EAT AND DRINK AROUND THE TOWN Use the winter holiday period to eat your way around the town and indulge in the gastronomic delights that await. The winter festival will also see the return of the Ballarat Potato Festival and The Red Series wine festival, as well as the inaugural Salumi and Charcuterie Festival, with all three events held at the Mining Exchange and showcasing the best produce and freshest ingredients of the region! ATTRACTIONS

The pop-up ice-skating rink is another major highlight of the winter festival. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the ice-skating will immerse you in the reality of the wintertime as you take to real ice and glide (or stagger) your way around the rink.

The attractions of the region are all set to present special winter offerings during the festival season. Admire the meerkats in their brand new enclosure at the Ballarat Wildlife Park, cheer on your favourite knight during one of Kryal Castle’s fiery jousting clashes, embrace the wintry skies and stars at the Ballarat Observatory, or enter a frozen wonderland at Maze House.

EXPLORE THE ART GALLERY

SPECIAL DEALS

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is one of Ballarat’s most treasured attractions, and if you haven’t visited in a while, then winter is the time. The gallery will be hosting the French exhibition Into Light giving audiences the exclusive chance to view some outstanding 19th- and 20th-century impressionist artworks from the Musée de la Chartreuse. Featuring pieces reflecting the romantic seascapes and tranquil landscapes of northern France through to

Get the biggest bang out of your buck with the Ballarat Winter Festival’s special deals. Many accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and attractions will have exclusive specials during July, so head to the winter festival website to find out all the details.

TAKE TO REAL ICE

For all the information, visit ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

DIVERSIFICATION IS THE KEY Farming is a hard gig, the vagaries of the weather, a fluctuating market and working seven days a week is not for everyone. However, ask a farmer how they feel and you invariably hear – ‘it’s hard, but it’s my life’. One such farmer is twenty-one-year-old Brandon May who combines farming with running a butcher shop – Greenvale Meats in Creswick and organising events. Growing up on the family farm in Kingston, producing potatoes and cattle, farming was all he wanted to do when he left school, but his father Ritchie wisely insisted that he learn a trade. So he did, completing his plumbing apprenticeship in 2017, however there haven’t been too many pipes fitted as his heart has always been in farming. Seeing the need for another income stream, Brandon and Ritchie bought the butcher shop, which is also an outlet for selling their own produce, guaranteeing quality and provenance.

In his limited spare time, Brandon organises and runs the annual Kingston Rodeo as well as bi-monthly horse events held on a family property at Waubra. Looking into the future, Brandon plans to expand the farm, continue running the shop and further develop his events adding new ones as the ideas formulate. Who says young people don’t have a work ethic.

Bottomless Brunch

2 hours of indulgence for $45* Includes brunch, beverages and desserts. Thursdays 10.30am - 3.00pm Bookings 0408 101 316 * Offer runs for a limited time

2017 Golden Plate Awards WINNER South West Victoria Best value for money WINNER State Winner Best value for money

31 Fraser Street, Clunes OPE N - 10a m t o 4pm Th u r sd ay t o S u n d ay or by appointment

52 Fraser Street, Clunes Donall Quigley & Jane Clarke

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD We all have to eat and food can occupy many of our waking hours. In our region, we are lucky to have very talented food entrepreneurs creating and supplying boutique produce. In this issue, we feature a few stories about some of them.

THE MUSHROOM CONNECTION The Mushroom Connection is a locally owned business dedicated to the cultivation of the highest quality organic gourmet mushrooms for the local community, cafes, restaurants and the culinary industry. Oyster mushrooms, Shiitake, Lions Mane, King Oyster, Pioppino, are just some of the range available, with many more in development. Find The Mushroom Connection at selected Farmers Markets and visit facebook.com/themushroomconnection

MICHEL’S FINE BISCUITS In 2002 a sweet dream became reality when Michel’s Fine Biscuit Company launched it’s first batch of delicacies. The range started with Fruit Mince Pies and Hazelnut Shortbread and grew to boast a wide range of classic biscuits, including their signature La Juliet range with decadent Belgian Chocolate and fresh fruit fillings, gluten free biscuits, crackers and Christmas treats. Made in small batches they are free of any numbers, preservatives, artificial colours and flavours, the range is hand made, baked and packed in Castlemaine. The commitment to using the best fresh and local ingredients ensures the high quality and delicious flavours remains consistent at all times. Michel’s Fine Biscuit selections are sold in dedicated food stores and cafes, Collingwood and Gas Works Farmers Markets and also directly from our kitchen doors in Castlemaine from Monday to Friday. Michels Fine Biscuit Co. Castlemaine 36 McGrath Street Castlemaine VIC 3450 03 5472 4274 www.michelsfinebiscuits.com.au

A SWEET MORSEL When Michel Mussett was retrenched from her job over sixteen years ago, it was the best thing that could ever have happened. Michel says, “it rebooted my entire life. My husband Bill was really supportive, even surrendering part of his beloved shed for me to work from”. Within two years, the business had grown considerably, so Michel asked Bill if she could have a little more, until finally he handed over the entire shed, refurbishing it completely as a full commercial kitchen. As a child, Michel loved baking, helping her mother make fresh cakes, slices, biscuits and fruit mince pies that she would sell to local shops in Castlemaine and give away to family and friends. Turning her passion into a business wasn’t a hard decision to make, however the other aspects of running a business proved to be a steep learning curve. Staffing, deliveries, marketing and sales were

challenging. Michel says, “I knew nothing about sales, but it soon came to me. My first big client was the Marriott Hotel and I soon moved on to restaurants, cafes and other corporate clients” adding, “Jools for Jim Hair Stylists was my second client and they’re still with me today, so too is her loyal team who have been with her for fifteen years.

THE BEAUTY OF GOURMET MUSHROOMS At an early age, the biology of mushrooms fascinated Jason Crosbie. From the incredible diversity of species, to the pivotal role they play in the cycle of life on earth, to the multitude of dietary, medicinal and spiritual uses they’ve had throughout all of recorded history. About five years ago, Jason set out to learn to cultivate his own mushrooms, mainly for fun and to share the fruits of his labour with friends and family. Coming from an IT background Jason had always had a strong interest in science and technology. He says, “what I love most about cultivating mushrooms is that it combines a love of these subjects with a love of nature. What started as a hobby soon developed into a passion and an obsession and since his first step into cultivation he’s been constantly

studying, learning, experimenting with new techniques and honing his cultivation skills. He was aware there was a demand in the Australian market for gourmet mushrooms and he also knew that there weren’t many growers around. He eventually saved up enough money to put together a small scale growing operation known as The Mushroom Connection, operational now for roughly 18 months. Currently Jason supplies a number of restaurants and cafes with a wide range of gourmet mushrooms, with many more in the works. Jason’s aim is to eventually supply the local community and culinary industry with the highest quality, fresh gourmet mushrooms. To see some of Jason’s range, visit Facebook, or instagram.com/themushroomconnection.

TOWN ON A PLATE The Farmers Arms - A pub hitting well above it’s weight There aren’t too many pubs around that can boast their own butchery, or a chef who not only creates great meals, both in the bistro and the bar, but who butchers and cures their own meat and charcuterie. Throw in a good range of beers on tap and an impressive wine list, live music on weekends, plus professional and friendly staff and you have a country pub that ‘hits well above it’s weight’. Owner Christine Molloy says; “We offer a modern take on a country pub that reaches out to a diverse range of people”, adding, “we provide a friendly place that appeals to singles, couples and families, where locals and visitors can relax and enjoy themselves”. The live music nights are a great hit, organised by Chris’ partner Richard who has a strong music background - adding another dimension to a night out. Chris and chef Adam Brook, (pictured above with front of house manager, Troy Downs), are very particular about the provenance of their produce ensuring it is ethically and locally sourced - add the fact that all butchery is performed in house, guarantees the integrity of the menu. Adam started working at The Farmers as the sous chef about a year ago and is now the

head chef. With thirteen years in hospitality, he is constantly looking at the changing food scene, keeping up with the latest developments and demands of diners. The life of a chef isn’t easy, especially with the unsocialable hours - the fact that his partner is also a chef, helps. While it can be tough, he loves what he does and that shows in his cooking. He would however, like to have a little more time to spend with his two year old twins. Finding more time to have a life has been high on Christine’s agenda this year. Working 24/7, dividing her time between The Farmers Arms and another similar business was taking it’s toll, so she made the decision to let go of the latter business and rationalise her life in order to achieve some freedom and the luxury of switching off. Although holding this enthusiastic business woman back may not be as easy as one would think. A dedicated and obsessive renovator, Chris has a few projects slowly cooking away in the background, just to keep her happy. Travelling is also in the bucket list. The Farmers Arms Hotel Creswick has to be on your “must go there” list. bookings@farmersarmscreswick.com

SLOW COOKED BEEF CHEEK WITH CREAMY MASH AND GREEN BEANS This hearty dish is perfect comfort food for the colder months. Rich in flavour with ingredients sourced locally. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reasonably easy to prepare and if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a water bath, a slow cooker is a great alternative. Chef Adam Brook has added a flourish of gold salt to the serving plate (optional) INGREDIENTS

METHOD

2 kg beef cheek, trimmed

Cut beef cheeks into 4 pieces

2 large carrots

Roughly cut vegetables

1 leek

Place beef cheeks, vegetables, wine, port and thyme in a cryovac bag and seal

4 sticks of celery 1 litre red wine 3 springs of thyme 250 ml port 1 tablespoon butter For serving... 3-4 potatoes green beans

Place in a water bath, bring to 80 degrees and cook for 36 hours. Alternatively, place in slow cooker and cook on low heat. When tender place liquid and cheek into a pan with the the butter and reduce until sauce is thick and cheek is nicely coated. TO SERVE Serve on a bed of mashed potato, with juices from the pan, add green beans.

20ml Water

By Della Vreeland – Visit Ballarat

FOCUSING CULINARY TALENTS MOST chefs search their whole career to find their passion. Some open a bakery or cafe. Some will start a taco shop. Others will go into fine dining. For Mick Nunn, there was never a question in his mind as to where he wanted to focus his culinary talents. “The thing I’ve always loved is making charcuterie,” Mick says. “I think a lot of chefs search their whole career to find what their passion is. For me, it was always making batches of salami, having a prosciutto hanging somewhere, making terrines and parfaits. That was what always gave me the most satisfaction.” Born and raised in Ballarat, Mick Nunn is the founder of Salt Kitchen Charcuterie. Salt Kitchen officially opened the doors of its cool-room in 2015, but its products are in high demand across regional Victoria and the entire country. There’s a sense of pride and passion that is hard to ignore when Mick speaks of his work, and it’s easy to see why the business is doing as well as it is. “We’ve been really lucky and happy to have gained so much traction,” he says. “Our business strategy is deliberate. We stay within the region and have a local philosophy. It’s smallgoods with provenance. We are pitching a mid- to high- end range with our products and they’re one-farm products, making us a reserve-range charcuterie.” Mick admits he didn’t grow up in a family that was particularly drawn to food and wine. 18

“I’m not third generation Italian or French or Spanish. I’m an Aussie and I’m from a British background and food in my family growing up was quite simple, quite basic,” he says. “When I first went to Melbourne for work experience and then started my apprenticeship, the world of food opened up and I just loved it. I became very passionate about it very quickly.” Salt Kitchen Charcuterie will be one of the operators showcased during this year’s inaugural Salumi and Charcuterie Festival, with Mick playing a major role in bringing the event together. Held as part of the Ballarat Winter Festival, the one-day affair will take place at the Mining Exchange, bringing together a range of meaty delights from near and far, matched by the craft beer of the region. According to Mick, there’s a lot happening in the local food, wine and beer space and it’s important for it to be put under the spotlight. “The major reason for me coming back to Ballarat to live and work was the produce of the region,” Mick says. “We are smack-bang in the middle of the food belt here and we’ve got the advantage of all these fantastic producers right on our doorstep.” The Salumi and Charcuterie Festival will be held on Saturday, July 21 between 11am and 6pm. For more information, visit ballaratwinterfestival.com.au

A NEW TEAM AT CLIFFY’S EMPORIUM In the meantime, Cliffy’s Emporium was facing some challenges and was placed on the market. Again, despite his childhood obsession with Cliffy’s, buying the place was also not on his agenda. However, when two sale offers fell through, Liam couldn’t resist, so along with Dan, close friend Samantha Mackley and her husband Michael Chapman, a partnership was formed and Cliffy’s Emporium now had new owners.

When Liam Thornycroft was a young student at Daylesford Secondary College, he would spend his time after school at his parent’s plant nursery, completing homework and waiting to be driven home by his Dad. With homework done, he would pop into the next door café, asking to help out. Little did he know that one day, he would be a co-owner of Daylesford’s iconic Cliffy’s Emporium.

The café is going through an exciting transition, with some improvements in the décor that don’t compromise the unique ambience of this much loved establishment and a new positive energy that is palpable. Already the menu has expanded and a new, exciting one is in development together with some new products and a few surprises. It’s all good at Cliffy’s.

A natural born entrepreneur, Liam moved through his teens learning about hospitality, first at Cliffy’s then at other local cafes and at the age of sixteen, became Marketing Manager at the equally iconic Convent Gallery, then Operations Manager, where he remained for the next ten years. With partner Dan Condon, Liam moved to West Footscray, before the suburb became gentrified and planned to commute daily to Daylesford to continue working at The Convent. However, opportunity changed those plans when he and Dan discovered an advertisement for an old milk bar for sale at a very reasonable price. They could see the potential to convert the property into a café, not something that had been on their agenda. Move ahead two years or so and the café, now named Dumbo, is well established and catering to the local community in West Footscray.

OPEN SEVEN DAYS. PURVEYORS OF PRODUCE AND WINE. BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND CHARCUTERIE

NEW WINTER MENU 30 RAGLAN ST DAYLESFORD 03 5348 3279 CLIFFYSEMPORIUM.COM.AU

A HAND FOR SMALL PRODUCERS Victoria has long been recognised for its food production, with the emphasis on quality, whether through locally grown products, high levels of craft, boutique or non-conventional systems. It is a growth area for artisanal agriculture and premium food. Chosen methods and styles of production in this field are very diverse from raising rare breed animals for meat or dairy production to growing and processing high quality gourmet products. Agriculture Victoria recently launched a $2 million program to support the development of these businesses and support services. The Government will work with premium food producers and industry groups to identify needs and opportunities, as well as exploring the distinctive characteristics of each region. Secrets spoke to local producer,

Natalie Hardy-Hurst who with partner Jonathan runs Brooklands Free Range Farm in Blampied, an award winning, ethical and sustainable rare breeds farm with Berkshire pigs, British White cattle and Finn sheep. Natalie said “This program is so exciting. We have waited a long time to be recognised by the State Government. They have now seen that small scale producers are the life blood of farming in this country”. Asked how the government program will benefit them, Nats said, “we’re still waiting on the detail, but it would be fantastic if it included some cash grants”, adding “we really want to open a farm gate butchery, but the costs of setting up are prohibitive, if we had assistance we could supply consumers with ethically processed, clean, fresh produce direct from our farm”. www.facebook.com/ BrooklandsFreeRangeFarms

88 Jim Rd, Newham www.hangingrock.com.au ph 03 5427 0542 20

‘DANCING WITH DAFFODILS’ THIS SPRING The Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival kicks off on August 31 and continues to September 9. This popular annual event announces that Spring has arrived with lots of sunny daffodils welcoming visitors to Kyneton. There is a myriad of events and activities to entertain including the Festival of One Act Plays, the Antique and Vintage Fair, ferret racing, buskers, concert performances and literary events catering for all ages. Now established, the Kyneton Dog Dash delights everyone with a great fun event. Many local gardens are open to visitors and the Spring Flower Show presents the signature blooms of the festival. Dancers from near and far will sway to great music at the ‘Dancing with Daffodils’ - the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Gala Dance with

prizes and a delicious supper. Art lovers will immerse themselves in the Daffodil Art Prize and Art Photography at the arts trail of local galleries displaying artists’ work. The district is on display in the Grand Parade on Sunday September 9 with bands, dancers, floats, cars and vintage vehicles. After the Parade the festivities close with a fair, performances and activities in Kyneton’s main streets.

Daffodil Art Prize, Art Photography Prize Exhibitions & Rotary Youth Art Awards, Open Gardens, Scarecrows, Spring Flower Show, Antique & Vintage Fair, One Act Plays Festival, Ferret Racing & Buskers, Kyneton Dog Dash, Arts Trail & Special Exhibitions, Kyneton Art Group Exhibition, Daffodil Gala Dance, Street Parade & Fair

More information to come about Performances & Recitals, Writers, Historic Walks, Fairs & Markets, Fine Food & Wine…

Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival - 03 5422 2282 Kyneton Visitor Information Centre - 03 5422 6110 www.kynetondaffodilarts.org.au www.visitvictoria.com

Creating your Future Heritage using appropriate materials, technology and strategies.

building design www.enduringdomain.com.au matt@enduringdomain.com.au

BLENDING INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Niimori Jamison is an architectural practice based in Ballarat and Melbourne, with strong international links. Directors, James Jamison and Yudai Niimori, met while studying architecture in Switzerland, gaining their Masters of Architecture at RMIT and USI Switzerland. Together they have a wide range of experience and skills, from working in Australia, Switzerland, Japan and India in related industries – Yudai as a furniture and interior designer in Japan, while James, who grew up in Ballarat, worked in carpentry and concrete form-work. Their credentials as architects is impressive having trained under award winning architects including Peter Zumthor, Valerio Olgiati, tUG Workshop and Freedman White. Both Yudai and James share a passion for architecture that is elegant, atmospheric and contextual and have experience in residential, commercial, institutional and interior architecture. In addition, they are well-versed in Passive House building design, the premier system for designing and building energy-efficient buildings, ideal for cold climates like Ballarat.

Their practice is solidly based in Ballarat, although Yudai still maintains a working profile in Japan. Asked what brought them back to the city, James said “We were attracted to Ballarat for it’s low-key, down-to-earth people - it’s largely untapped architectural and cultural potential, plus the beautiful historical architecture and landscape.” Adding, “We’d like to further the field of architecture in Ballarat. Melbourne is becoming somewhat stifling and overdeveloped in a hasty, developer-centric way and losing some of its character as a result. Architects should do their best to guide the way new architecture integrates in the urban fabric providing for contemporary contrast that frames and highlights historical elements within the city.” This philosophy is integral to their work in Ballarat as James and Yudai are both passionate about the region. Their work blends thoughtful, contemporary design with the rich architecture, history and landscape that is so strong in the region. As a young team looking ahead, James said “Hopefully our practice will be well integrated in the community with us working on a range of projects - residential, public, commercial and other areas.”

Johnson House, 2013 Builder: Constructing Concepts Cedar extension to an existing inter-war bungalow in central Ballarat.

Your Guide to Vintage Fashion and Retro venues of the Bendigo Region. Vintage fashion & retro

Explore the Bendigo Region

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Pick up your own pocket guide and create your own vintage fashion and retro itinerary throughout the beautiful Bendigo Region. From cute vintage stores, unassuming op shops, antique bazaars and curated markets, the Bendigo Region is your own treasure trove.

This guide will be your perfect tool to experience the regions wealth of vintage fashion and retro delights.

For additional regional day trips and more to do in the Bendigo Region, please visit www.bendigoregion.com

INTO RETRO AND VINTAGE FASHION? To have a personal guide is a huge advantage when exploring our region and when that guide fits neatly into the pocket, it’s even better. The Pocket Guide to Retro and Fashion of the Bendigo Region is a good companion for any traveller. By building their own personal itinerary, visitors can choose, where and in what direction to take that allows the freedom to include other sights and interest points, making the adventure even more enjoyable. The guide has been designed by key destinations within the Bendigo Region to make the journey delightful. These are some highlights of what can be found in the region. MARYBOROUGH Wear J’a Get That Mandy Tranter is the ‘go to’ lady in Maryborough for something precious and collectible. Known for creating eye catching displays, she regularly changes her windows to dramatic effect, attracting locals and tourists alike. Wear j’a Get That is best known for its wonderful range of new and vintage quirky fashion for women and men, including jewellery, accessories and sunglasses. A fantastic source of fashion items or a distinctive gift for those who appreciate a treasured find. 77 Nolan Street Maryborough. Open Wed – Fri 10am – 4pm and Saturday 10am – midday. BENDIGO View Street Bazaar Being in the centre of the Arts and Antiques precinct of Bendigo, View Street Bazaar is a mecca for the seeker of new, but mostly old treasures. With an interesting range of

collectibles, you may find kitchenware, stylish jewellery, scarves and accessories, wall art, nautical memorabilia, old postcards, maps, figurines and more! With a mix of antiques, art deco and retro pieces, the style is eclectic and worthy of investigation. Located opposite the Art Gallery at 91 View Street, Bendigo. Open 10am – 5pm daily. MALDON About Time Vintage About Time Vintage in Maldon is one of those hidden gems that once found, you return to time and again. Featuring a unique collection of vintage, retro, revamped and designer clothing and accessories, exquisite jewellery, records and antiques, there is more here than you would ever expect to find in a small town, but then Maldon prides itself on its links to its history. You’ll enjoy the journey. 9 Main Street, Maldon. Open Wednesday and Friday - Sunday 10am 5pm. INGLEWOOD Inglewood Emporium Inglewood Emporium is a huge shop – formerly the town’s original grocery store built in 1861 that still has an original Bushells tea sign inviting customers to explore the range carefully and thoughtfully placed to make browsing easier. Featuring a wide selection of vintage and antique treasures, items range from clothing, through to furniture, grocery packaging and containers, metal signs, fishing items, even motorbikes. 76 – 80 Brooke Street, Inglewood. Open 7 days 10am – 5pm.

NOW YOU SEE IT Victoria’s first Regional Centre for Culture reveals an unprecedented showcase of local creativity set for four municipalities in central Victoria in 2018. The year-long celebration of culture in all its forms offers plenty to get hearts pumping and communities involved, highlighting the diversity and creativity of the region and attract tourism, provide employment opportunities and a wealth of cultural experiences for locals and visitors alike. To manage such a large-scale project, Jo Porter and Elizabeth Walsh relocated from Melbourne to Castlemaine to take on the roles of producers from July 2017. The project is a top-down initiative from the State Government, but Jo and Elizabeth were careful not to displace existing events, planning a program aiming to have a lasting impact for communities. A local event the pair produced

in May was Now You See It… in conjunction with the National Trust Anderson’s Mill Heritage Weekend in Smeaton. This included a sound and light show projected onto the mill featuring 170 drawings by primary school children. June sees a singing experience over three Saturdays and ten locations called Town Hall Crawl. Jo and Elizabeth said, “we enjoy allowing people into those little places that you drive past and never get to see because ‘Ron’s got the keys and he’s only here on Tuesday’ - or “the key is at the Newsagents” Jo continued, “these programs are better than overseas travel in some ways, because you really get a chance to see inside people’s lives and their creative practice.” Further details rcc2018.com

GET OUTTA TOWN When two young women made the big move from Melbourne to live that country idyll, they found life to be a lot more than they expected. Both had very young children, both lived in Newstead and both were feeling their way into country life. As often happens in country towns, a chance meeting in the street resulted in the formation of a strong friendship, a popular blog, a radio program and running speaking events. Rachel Valentine and Yasmine O’Sullivan balance all of this with being Mums and encouraging other women to get out there and live their passion. The next planned event is called ‘Ladies who Launch’, a networking lunch for women in the Goldfields region who run or are thinking of starting their own business. Three guest speakers share their stories on how they started in the world of commerce. The lunch (sorry launch) will be held at The Diggers Store, Campbells Creek on 22nd July.

You can learn more about Rachel and Yasmine’s events, catch them on 94.9 MAINfm Fridays at 4pm and read their blog on Facebook.

ONE YEAR DOWN After one year in the job Glyn Roberts has settled into his role as Director of the Castlemaine State Festival very nicely thank you. Asked how he has found his job so far, Glyn said “I was very lucky in that I had a long time to think about it before taking up the role. I was appointed in October 2016, but didn’t start until June, ’17, which gave me time to understand the town, learn more about the region, living in the country and the Asia Pacific region that we are integrally a part of”. Originally from Melbourne, Glyn wanted to be a playwright, a passion he’d held for a long time. As he says “I bashed away for a long time then realised no one was going to put on my plays, so started to put on my own plays, then other peoples”. He soon found that he was successfully producing more of his friend’s plays than his own, which opened a move into theatre production. This led to joining forces with a friend, Kate Usher to create an international dance festival, showcasing Australian dancers. Moving it to Brisbane filled a gap in the Queensland cultural scene where Glyn stayed for the next four years. Around this time, Glyn was looking for new challenges and a friend told him about the Director’s role for the Castlemaine State Festival opening up, a job she would have loved, but couldn’t because of other commitments. Synchronistically, Glyn and his wife Naida had already decided they wanted to move to

Castlemaine, so it was a ‘no brainer’ for him to apply and happily he got the job. When Glyn and Naida first arrived they took temporary accommodation, even looking after Lot 19 Art Precinct for a time. They now live in a gorgeous Federation house in the middle of Castlemaine from where Glyn can walk to work and have time to spend in the garden. Asked about the team he works with, Glyn replied; “We have built a really strong team from scratch who are fantastic and who I really trust, essential for directing one of the largest regional arts events in the country” adding, “We’re doubly blessed with the community support for the festival”, citing the owners of Castlemaine’s iconic Theatre Royal as an integral part of the festival. Glyn said “these guys have backgrounds in theatre and are fantastic contemporary music curators”. Work on the 2019 festival is well underway. Glyn said there will be increased visibility in the visual art area, plus more drama. Next year will see a longer season, more meatier works and diversity of performances. Glyn plans on being in the job for the long haul saying, “I would love to be in Castlemaine delivering my third festival in 2023 drawing performers and audiences from all over the world”. If talent and enthusiasm count for anything, we’ll be seeing a lot more of Glyn.

RECIPE FOR HEALTHY GARDENS As a café owner for 5 years, Gary Myers always wondered about the amount of food waste generated from the menu. He began investigating ways to reduce this waste and at the same time make it useful. This led to him literally rifling through the waste bins by hand, determining what waste he had and what he could do with it. The idea of self sustainability was nagging at him and creating his own produce was the end result. Gary then began to collect certain items from the waste bins, dividing out egg shells, banana skins, avocado skins and seeds, orange peels, meat and the rest of the food waste. The meat was tossed to the birds, the unusable food waste went to his composting

worm farms, but the skins, once dried out, were turned into a plant food nutrient powder to return back to his garden. These nutrients are processed to the point that they can be easily and readily absorbed without much decomposition time required. Once absorbed into the garden beds, Gary found that his yield from his edible plants increased and looked Studio 29, Newbridge healthier. Eventually moving on from the0402 400 227 sarahgrant.com.au café, he created his new business - Guerilla Gardener. This niche business concentrated For unique handcrafted on developing food waste nutrients use can andbe found jewellery,toSarah sell to gardening enthusiasts wanting to switch Artist’s at The Castlemaine market yield and Maldon to an organic based way of boosting and market. health. Gary is now mulching old forest bark and leaves and stocking up autumn mulch soOpal it rings Pair of Stirling silver with is nutrient ready for spring. 18ct gold detail. Re-modelling of Opal jewellery available.

Workshops with Sarah Grant Book now by emailing sarah@sarahgrant.com.au or calling 0400 400 227. You can make your own funky jewellery: learn how at Sarah Grant’s fun workshops. Saturdays 10am to 3.30pm. Tools and material provided and a light lunch included.

ALLENDALE NURSERY Hooked on herbs Specializing in herbs & vegetable seedlings. 4141 Creswick-Newstead Road Allendale Phone 0411 551 550 allendalenursery@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Spend $20, mention Secrets & receive a free herb

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 4th Sunday of the month

Woodend Farmers Market Gisborne Olde Time Market Kyneton Farmers Market Flemington Farmers Market Creswick Market Talbot Farmers Market Flemington Farmers Market

By Rebecca Sprosen-Bailey - Allendale Nursery

WINTER IN THE GARDEN Temperatures have dropped and most of us just want to curl up in front of the fire with a good book or a nice drop, but there are many jobs to do around the garden on those lovely winter days. In the vegetable patch, plant asparagus crowns, broccoli, baby broccoli, broad beans, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, peas, onions, spring onions and shallots. You can plant all herbs except summer annuals such as basil and dill. Carefully take apart then clean loppers, secateurs and shears, sharpen their blades and oil any moving parts. Clean rusty tools by soaking them in a mixture of one-part molasses to 10 parts water. Wipe off rust with a rag or steel wool. Wipe down the wooden handles with a cloth dipped in linseed oil to protect the timber. Get your bare-rooted trees, shrubs, vines and roses in. The earlier to the nursery the better choice of plant. Now that your deciduous trees have lost their leaves to reveal the bare framework of the canopy, it’s the perfect time to prune any branches missed in your summer or autumn pruning. Move deciduous shrubs and small trees while they are fully dormant. Dig the rootball as big as you can and move carefully. Keep moist until established. Prune roses and hydrangeas from now to mid-winter. Propagate hydrangea cuttings by selecting a piece that’s approx. 10-15cm long and has three nodes. Place in potting mix and let it grow. It makes a wonderful gift. Collect fallen leaves to use as mulch or in compost. Plant pansies for some winter colour. Plant your spring flowering annuals in June, watch out for snails & slugs. Use a pet friendly bait to protect small seedlings.

Plant your summer flowering bulbs now such as Calla (Zantedeschia spp), Asiatic lily, Scarborough lily (Valotta spp). It’s not too late to plant spring flowering bulbs although they may not do as well in their first year. Divide native violet (Viola hederacea) to create a colourful groundcover. Grows anywhere, but prefers shady areas. Create garden tripods and trellises in readiness for spring planting of peas & beans. Try willow or poplar branches, or bamboo if you can get your hands on it. Let your imagination run wild. Towards the end of winter prepare sites for spring plantings. Dig to a spade depth, add compost and well-rotted manure and work in with a garden fork. Another tip: as you dig, bury short lengths of wide polypipe, with holes drilled into the sides. They make a perfect worm habitat when filled with kitchen scraps and topped with leaf mulch or lawn clippings. Enjoy your garden, until next time.

By Lyndall McQuinn

WINTER ASTROLOGY It’s exciting times. Both major outer planetary shifts have occurred, Chiron has moved into Aries in Autumn and Uranus is now in Taurus. When we enter new cycles there is usually a bit of turbulence until we adjust. So we may expect to wobble into winter, but unless we are directly affected by these energies we could assume life will settle. One thing I am hearing everywhere is how fast we are travelling. So buckle up and find your inner peace.

Aries - you have one of the new energy shifts into your sign and you are also farewelling Uranus who for the last eight years has brought turbulence and liberation to your life. So it might be a relief to have the quieter energy of Chiron, however this energy does confront us on our issues. Aries born 21 to 23rd of March have the greatest effects. Taurus - you have Uranus entering and bustling those born April 21 to 24. Taurus is not a fast changing energy and Uranus is probably the fastest energy for change so this might not go so well. One thing is for certain, change is coming your way Taurus albeit slowly over the next eight years. No more whining about nothing ever alters. Gemini - fast but effective I would think winter is for you. You have a Dark Moon in Gemini; always good for a soul search. The Sun and Mercury begin in your sign in winter so plenty of ideas and others to communicate with and Mars is spending a lot of time in Aquarius in winter so that influence can flow down to you and keep you motivated and busy. Just what you like.

Cancer - life is a plod. You have a Dark Moon in your sign in July with a partial eclipse and many influences coming across the wheel from Capricorn. So both Pluto and Saturn oppose you. They are a heavyduty pair and seeing they are in opposition, it’s often not your doing, but other people’s stuff you have to deal with. Not so easy for you to keep your life in a rhythmic pattern. Leo - your lamp is burning low; winter seems like a reflection time for you. Mercury will turn retrograde in Leo in July and August so many things you thought were in place may have to be re-thought. Also Mars is opposite in Aquarius and is sticking around over a couple of months so that means your usual placid demeanor is stretched to its limits and keeping your cool may be a bit much to ask. The final Dark Moon of winter in August, also with a partial eclipse, may be the time you finally feel things are sorted the way you’d like. Virgo - you are quiet and seem to be keeping out of harm’s way. Some of you may be a little confused about where to from here, but generally the earthy connections from Capricorn of Saturn; which is likely to help get you organised rather than over organised and Pluto which brings you into contact with empowered others who encourage you add a confidence you don’t often have. Libra - you can be pressured from all sides. The Chiron transit will shine across the wheel from Aries and throw some healing light on your life, at present on the early born Librans; whilst Saturn is pushing you to be realistic and grounded and

for others; Pluto is bringing in deep relationships that can be intense and powerful. So there are groups of Libras each with their own set of challenges. Scorpio - your big news story is Jupiter, planet of luck and abundance is moving through Scorpio and over winter it is going to sit still on 13 degrees for the whole month of July. That means if you are born on Nov 7 and to a lesser extent Nov 6 or 8, this is a very expansive period. Try your luck. Sagittarius - you are missing in action somewhere. No highs, no lows just plenty of action which suits you really. This might be the time to head to the warmth or try a few of your crazy plans that come and go on a regular basis. There are influences around, but none of them really call you to a halt. Capricorn - you are working hard at present with two major planets working their way through your sign. The Capricorns affected by Saturn who rules you, are likely to be very busy with way too much responsibility, but deep down life is going somewhere. Just make sure it’s where you desire. Those born on Dec 24 to 29 you may be rehashing projects that you thought were well and truly done with. The Pluto affected Capricorns, those

born on Jan 9 to 12 life is more than responsible, it’s intense and you may not feel life is in your control, which doesn’t suit you at all. The Full Moon in June shines in your sign throwing light on life. Aquarius - you will love this winter. Mars has decided to turn retrograde in your sign and stay there for nearly all winter. So don’t spend the time being annoyed with everyone and the world as well; use the momentum of Mars to get your big picture on the ground and happening. Mars equals drive so lets be driven in whatever way suits. Full Moon in July with eclipse will show you flaws in your plans. Pisces - you only have Neptune left in your sign. The wounded ways are down. Neptune creates confused visions, but is really moving very slowly and only affecting Pisceans born March 5 to 8. For them it’s a confusion of who I am and what am I doing. The rest of Pisces is feeling organised and free to float into which ever direction they choose. Full Moon in your sign at the end of winter sets you up for new vision in Spring.

Love and blessings Lyndall. For readings with Lyndall, call 0428 425 923 www.lyndallmcquinn.com